August 2010 Archives

August 31

Why can't I get rid of the song in my head?

Someone just sang a stupid song, to himself; he sits next to me at work. Which raises a question: Why do songs get stuck in our brains for days? What is the scientific explanation for this phenomena? Is it an affect of modern life on the individual? Do we fear of loneliness?
posted by lipsum at 11:42 PM PST - 9 comments

When would a prospective employer contact my current employer?

When would a prospective employer contact my current employer? [more inside]
posted by wireless at 11:20 PM PST - 5 comments

I needs me a camera!

Where's the best place to buy a digital camera in Berlin? [more inside]
posted by the luke parker fiasco at 10:28 PM PST - 2 comments

where did i come from?

superly sockpuppet birds and the bees filter: i was date-raped and now i am negotiating some intense babydaddy issues in court. he has a new girlfriend and a new baby. my child is 6 and understandably pondering how this is all possible. babydaddy was not significantly present for about 5 years. i am a very much single mother and i and my parents are all that my child has known in a truly significant way...how to approach the question of origin truthfully but sensitively? [more inside]
posted by bright and shiny at 10:20 PM PST - 40 comments

Who knows how to write simply?

I'm looking for research on low-literacy writing, how people read and remember different kinds of materials, what kind of materials are most readable to the most people, etc. Names of academic journals or even academic specialties I should be looking at would be helpful. Info on this topic for general audiences (and written accessibly!) are also welcome, if they are based on research. (Much of what I've found so far is based on conjecture, which I already have a ton of).
posted by serazin at 9:57 PM PST - 3 comments

Will my Facebook photos still be around in 600 years?

Can you point me to any good writing (research-based, speculative, or heck, even fictional) about the potential historical permanence or impermanence of digital media? I'm interested in both professional (theatrical movies, book publishing, maps...) and personal (digital snapshots, Livejournal, email...) forms of digital information storage. [more inside]
posted by bubukaba at 9:35 PM PST - 8 comments

Where can a college student buy an inexpensive (and legit) Windows OS license?

Where can a college student buy an inexpensive (and legit) Windows OS license? [more inside]
posted by fishpatrol at 9:21 PM PST - 25 comments

Cat + banty chicken = broken heart

I have chickens. Roommate moving in just told me her cat kills birds in mid-air. Now what? [more inside]
posted by aniola at 9:09 PM PST - 45 comments

Ok to ask?

If I'm invited to a cocktails only and dancing wedding reception, may I ask to bring a date? [more inside]
posted by hellameangirl at 8:32 PM PST - 48 comments

Looking for un-virusing help in Ventura, California

Computer repair from afar-filter: my sister's Dell desktop is infected with one (or more) viruses, and I'm not around to fix it for her. deezil's profile is too detailed to mail to her or trying to walk her through, so I'm looking to get her to a fix-it shop in Ventura, CA, or recommendations on one of the fix-it shops in chain stores. Oh, and we don't know her admin password. [more inside]
posted by filthy light thief at 8:32 PM PST - 4 comments

American Express Never Forgets

I recently applied for a corporate American Express card through work and they told me that they found an old written-off debt from 1990 under my name. How best should I handle this? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:24 PM PST - 5 comments

Help a California girl spending 9 months in India feel connected to family and home?

Genius MeFi Brain Trust: my very sweet, very sharp fiancee will be conducting the bulk of her PhD research on a Fulbright in India this year (Delhi and points beyond TBD). She's been once before for a couple of months and she's asked me to get her a birthday present that helps remind her of home and her family. [more inside]
posted by chrisco at 8:17 PM PST - 8 comments

Help me with the basics of furnishing my new bedroom!

I now am the proud leaser of an apartment, and more pertinently, of an unfurnished bedroom. Before I go out and say "this looks nice, I'll buy it," what are some good resources, tips, threads, or hacks for furnishing and decorating a bedroom or living space or the like? [more inside]
posted by Jacen Solo at 8:13 PM PST - 11 comments

Help me motivate and teach my team while having fun!

I need to do a 30 minute presentation at a meeting next week, and I need the info I'm giving to stick hard. In your experience, what hands on activities/contests/ etc. have been effective for you or your co-workers? Somewhat wacky (possibly very boring) work details inside... [more inside]
posted by couchtater at 7:18 PM PST - 7 comments

Is this what raclette should taste/smell like?

Should raw milk raclette smell like this? [more inside]
posted by artifarce at 7:17 PM PST - 14 comments

How can I persuade my friend to not enter a green card marriage?

How can I persuade my friend to not enter a green card marriage? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:11 PM PST - 33 comments

Biking Bonobo Seeks Badass, Kong-Quality Caffeine Carrier

Remember those luggage commercials back in the last century that had a big gorilla tossing around the suitcase to show how much abuse it could stand? I'm looking for the commuter coffee-tumbler version of that. [more inside]
posted by Pirate-Bartender-Zombie-Monkey at 7:10 PM PST - 11 comments

Best location for college students on a spring trip?

A group of us students are given the opportunity to go abroad over the Spring Break week in a (predominately) non-english speaking country. The location is up to us (war zones are of course off limits. I'm unsure of the distance limit, I believe South-East Asia is too far away, and St. Petersburg is the only option for Russia) and the cost is subsidized quite a bit. The purpose of the visit isn't for lounging around and seeing sites though, we will be conducting individual research in order to make a ~50 minute presentation back home. Obviously this is something that will come from the desires of the group, but I was hoping to get some input from the educated masses here at MeFi so that I could relay it back to the rest of the group.
posted by SollosQ at 7:04 PM PST - 18 comments

Broaden my horizons, one search at a time...

Spare 5 minutes. What do I type into Google to learn or laugh?
posted by SueDenim at 6:52 PM PST - 15 comments

There's a Rugged Road Chords?

Can someone with a better ear than me pick out the chords in Judee Sill's "There's a Rugged Road"? [more inside]
posted by jimmysmits at 6:19 PM PST - 6 comments

What are the best movies about the U.S. Secret Service?

What are the best fictional movies focused around the U.S. Secret Service? I'm more interested in movies with fictional Presidents and situations.
posted by agregoli at 5:55 PM PST - 17 comments

Know some good lamps?

I am an artist. I broke an old lamp that I used as my main light when drawing and coloring. Can you please suggest some cool lamps you know? [more inside]
posted by fantodstic at 5:52 PM PST - 10 comments

Getting a part-time programming job without a degree...

How do you go about when you look for a part-time entry-level software developer job? [more inside]
posted by RaDeuX at 5:49 PM PST - 11 comments

Drowning in politics and lies at work

How do I navigate this increasingly complicated and uncomfortable situation at work which involves lying on other people's part, future fibbing on my part, being angry at my bosses, and potentially following them out the door? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:30 PM PST - 18 comments

What scifi/comic fan convention should I attend?

Never been to a scifi/comic convention: help me change this! Especially if I can only attend 1 in the next few years, what would you recommend as the most fun convention for me (1) in Eastern Canada? or (2) in North America? [more inside]
posted by SarahbytheSea at 5:20 PM PST - 17 comments

Soups and Stews, Preserved

What types of soups/stew should I make for pressure canning? No knowledge of pressure canning required (aside from some notes inside). Just tell me your recipes! [more inside]
posted by mccarty.tim at 5:12 PM PST - 12 comments

let's (learn to) dance

I want to learn to dance well. At clubs and parties, for example. I am in good physical shape, but I have no rhythm/coordination or even basic knowledge of dancing. How do I start from zero? What steps should I take to reach my goal? [more inside]
posted by * at 5:12 PM PST - 14 comments

driver's ed for someone who missed the change in HS?

Recommendation for a driver's ed instructor in Brooklyn, not far from the Sheepshead Bay / Brighton Beach area? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:38 PM PST - 0 comments

Money Spats

How to handle fights about money with spouse? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:38 PM PST - 27 comments

Music like The Draughtsman's Contract Soundtrack

Recommend some music similar to a couple Michael Nyman pieces. [more inside]
posted by jedicus at 4:29 PM PST - 11 comments

"Just say NO to NATO?"

Let's say Russia wanted to be rid of that pesky NATO alliance once and for all. For fiction purposes, how might they go about making this happen? All ideas welcome, no matter how implausible. [more inside]
posted by np312 at 4:22 PM PST - 25 comments

What should I do with these vintage motion and still film cameras?

I have found myself in the possession of a few interesting vintage motion and still film cameras which look to be in great shape, including cases and manuals. While they look neat, I know nothing about them. I tried googling them, but couldn't find anything specific enough to help me decide what I should do with them. I'd like to know if they're worth anything and where I can look to find how much they're going for and where I might advertise them. Specifics and photos inside... [more inside]
posted by bestillme at 4:10 PM PST - 10 comments

Help me Learn How to Program Rock Drums

What's the easier way for me to learn the conventions of rock drumming from my bed? [more inside]
posted by DMelanogaster at 3:59 PM PST - 7 comments

Get your copyright on!

Can I republish repurposed PowerPoint images as political cartoons? [more inside]
posted by abirae at 3:53 PM PST - 10 comments

Please recommend dreamy, melodic bands like Galaxie 500

Lately, '80s/'90s dream pop a la Galaxie 500 has really been hitting the spot. Please recommend more music that will send me drifting away into a sea of fuzzy bliss. [more inside]
posted by cirripede at 3:51 PM PST - 39 comments

Where is the best place to purchase OEM wheels at a good discount?

Where is the best place to purchase OEM wheels at a good discount? [more inside]
posted by BasileusPY at 3:40 PM PST - 5 comments

Does my hat say "I heart Stalin"?

What does this badge mean? [more inside]
posted by Sara Anne at 3:29 PM PST - 5 comments

Changing banks in Louisville, KY

Fed up with current bank, would very much like to find a new one. [more inside]
posted by ConstantineXVI at 3:29 PM PST - 17 comments

is this as good as it gets?

Is this as good as it gets? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:51 PM PST - 40 comments

Help me understand.

My ex-boyfriend is depressed; I'm not. He ended our relationship abruptly, leaving me with unanswered questions. I'd like some perspective on how depression can affect and end otherwise healthy relationships. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:51 PM PST - 15 comments

Help me pick out a workhorse laser printer

I am having an embarrassingly difficult time replacing an HP 4600 Laserjet printer. What is your methodology for selecting a high-volume laser printer? [more inside]
posted by mecran01 at 2:39 PM PST - 15 comments

Should I don the black ironic tshirt?

Career Change: Graphics to....IT? Please tell me about the wide range of IT work. [more inside]
posted by gofargogo at 2:21 PM PST - 4 comments

Buried Alive in Ancient Egypt - Can you name the Movie

Moviefilter: My wife is trying to identify a movie she watched years ago about ancient Egypt where slaves try to escape from being buried alive with the pharaoh (or other persons of great stature). [more inside]
posted by tuxster at 2:08 PM PST - 7 comments

Yiddish radio suggestions

Yiddish radio resources for my sight-impaired grandmother.. [more inside]
posted by sdis at 1:43 PM PST - 6 comments

How to learn Southern charm?

How to learn Southern charm? Is there a book? Should I go to finishing school? How to have the grace and wit of Southerners?
posted by UltraD at 1:36 PM PST - 44 comments

ISO: a social forum with entertaining personalities.

Help me find a decent online social community. Details inside. [more inside]
posted by KogeLiz at 1:18 PM PST - 14 comments

A good book explaining parental abuse and a child's view of one self?

I need help UNDERSTANDING something. How does one emotional and physical abuse as a child contribute to one's basic feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem? Any specific book recommendations on the subject? [more inside]
posted by learninguntilidie at 1:17 PM PST - 18 comments

Thanks or Thank You

I work the front desk at my parent's hotel and we are having a dispute regarding the language and wording of a sign that we have recently put up. Is there a better way to word the following sign: "Busy Helping Another Guest, Back in a Minute. Thanks." ? [more inside]
posted by Fizz at 12:58 PM PST - 25 comments

How to Make It to Montauk

I finished my first century ride last weekend, and I want to do another one! So I'm planning a DIY century from either Queens or one of the stops on the LIRR to Montauk (I'll take the train back). I've never set foot or wheel on the south shore. Please help me plan the trip! [more inside]
posted by foxy_hedgehog at 12:57 PM PST - 16 comments

Why is one of these things not like the others?

Why did the "Twisted girl throwing puppies in a river" video generate such global outrage and attention, when other videos of violence towards animals usually don't? What was different about this video? [more inside]
posted by Ashley801 at 12:45 PM PST - 42 comments

Baby you can have whatever you like

How much exercise do I need to get before I can eat whatever I want?! [more inside]
posted by Rocket26 at 12:44 PM PST - 51 comments

How do I talk sense into an ex of a friend?

My ladyfriend's ex is inviting himself to her birthday visit, how do I untangle this soap opera? [more inside]
posted by rhizome at 12:38 PM PST - 26 comments

Best of europe in early november

We have an opportunity to be in London for a couple of days in early November. We are hoping to extend our trip by a week and do some travel/sightseeing while we are there. In our young 30s, like a bit of adventure, charm and vibrant lifestyle during our vacations. Where should we go? [more inside]
posted by cusecase at 12:29 PM PST - 6 comments

DSLR lens advice wanted

I'm trying to come up with a package of DSLR lenses that will cover 99% of my picture-taking requirements at the least cost. 18-200mm all-in-one or 18-55mm and 55-200mm lenses? [more inside]
posted by LouMac at 12:20 PM PST - 14 comments

Coffee shop or bar jobs in SF?

How hard is it to get a job in San Francisco in a coffee shop or bar (bartender or otherwise), without any experience? [more inside]
posted by devilsbrigade at 12:19 PM PST - 4 comments

He gave me his number, BUT.....

Isn't there some rule that a guy isn't really interested unless he asks for your number? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 11:59 AM PST - 37 comments

Is her excessive temper a red flag for our wedding or can it be overcome?

I am months away from a wedding with deep reservations about my future wife's temperament, which often becomes physically violent. How do I persist? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 11:59 AM PST - 384 comments

I made this

Can I make someone stop using an image I created when the image in question is a parody of another work? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 11:59 AM PST - 9 comments

Why ask for 10 things about me?

In an online dating conversation, what is the intent of "tell me 10 random things about yourself"? [more inside]
posted by RobinFiveWords at 11:56 AM PST - 19 comments

These Boots Were Made for Lookin' Fly

Women's military inspired boots! Help me get as close to these without the ridiculous price tag! [more inside]
posted by polly grok it at 11:56 AM PST - 16 comments

75 AskMes about cat pee and this hasn't been covered

What's the best way to clean a bunch of tools that are encrusted in old cat pee? [more inside]
posted by mudpuppie at 11:53 AM PST - 16 comments

Should I teach with a doc cam?

What are the downsides (if any) to using a document camera for university teaching in the humanities? [more inside]
posted by kestrel251 at 11:39 AM PST - 6 comments

Ip Man branch

I have decided to Wing Chun tonight. [more inside]
posted by clavdivs at 11:39 AM PST - 4 comments

New boss, say hello to the employee that's been doing her job and yours for a year.

Have you ever had to "hold down the fort" at work for a long time without a supervisor, and then one day, you finally got a boss? I'm going to be that boss. Help! [more inside]
posted by juniperesque at 11:39 AM PST - 13 comments

new old grad student seeks to avoid institutionalized boredom

Do I need to attend the UBC (University of British Columbia) grad student orientation this week? [more inside]
posted by philip-random at 11:36 AM PST - 4 comments

Any advice for a first fondue?

Help me do that fondue voodoo that you do so well! [more inside]
posted by WinnipegDragon at 11:23 AM PST - 16 comments

How do I navigate racial politics with my family before our transracial adoption?

When I was childless, my parents' right-wing politics were pretty easy to ignore. Whatever, we're different, they are entitled to their opinions. But now that I have a small child, and we are about to adopt transracially, things are beginning to get tense for me. [more inside]
posted by jeanmari at 11:11 AM PST - 41 comments

Shared RSS Reader for Groups

I'm looking for something like Google Reader's sharing functionality, but for a group of project collaborators. [more inside]
posted by roll truck roll at 10:59 AM PST - 3 comments

MeFites, Countrymen, lend me your ear(phones) (suggestions)!

If money were no object, what are the best noise canceling headphones I could buy? [more inside]
posted by banannafish at 10:42 AM PST - 17 comments

Getting large PDFs onto the iPad

How can I get 100mb to 250mb PDFs onto my iPad? [more inside]
posted by dfriedman at 10:42 AM PST - 6 comments

Help me make horizontal bar for me to practice balance on

I'm looking to create a bar like this one so that I can stand on it to practice my balance. I'm thinking some kind of plumbing pipe may be able to hold me, or possibly a metal broomstick (I'm 56kg). Any help on what to make it from or how to put it together? [more inside]
posted by insperatum at 10:34 AM PST - 12 comments

sharing writing studio space

I own two homes, and am developing a shared writer/quiet artist studio space in one of my empty apartments. I will be using it along with 3-4 others. Do users of creative studio spaces have advice on how we can smoothly operate? Any examples of ground rules, chore charts, etc. would be appreciated.
posted by particular at 10:30 AM PST - 4 comments

ProActiv - bad idea in the long term?

What are the long term effects of ProActiv on my skin? (And should I bother trying to kick the stuff?) I feel like all this daily abrasion can't be a good thing, but every time I try to change products, the acne rears up again. [more inside]
posted by nicoleincanada at 10:15 AM PST - 19 comments

Where to find a small, sturdy, inexpensive camera bag?

I'm making an effort to take more photos with my Nikon D90, and I'd like to keep my camera on me 24/7. While my current camera bag is fantastic, it's too bulky for everyday use. [more inside]
posted by good day merlock at 10:10 AM PST - 13 comments

How to get an xml file (online calendar feed) to auto update to iCal or any other calendar?

How can I sync an online calendar feed (xml) with either iCal or Google Calendar? I know I can sync iCal and gCalendar easily through several methods. But what I also need to include is my department's events calendar. I can import it as an iCal or Outlook file, but this is only a one-time option. Once the department's calendar is updated I don't receive the new or changed events. And I suspect if I import the (newer) file again, I will get many duplicates. The calendar has an xml feed I could subscribe to, but can't figure out how to translate this into a calendar that automatically syncs or updates. Willing to consider any options that would lead to the online calendar (.ics, .csv, or .xml file) being auto updated to any calendar application. This would make my life so much easier! Thanks!
posted by madscientist01 at 10:07 AM PST - 3 comments

Labor Day Fun in the Sun

Labor Day weekend will be my last day off before hunkering down through my heavy work load and waiting for Thanksgiving Day. I've had a glorious summer but sadly the days have become noticeably shorter. What would be appropriately awesome for this last summer huzzah? Help me Texan MeFites! [more inside]
posted by vilandra at 10:01 AM PST - 2 comments

How do I quanitify the number of people who did the work?

How do I accurately quantify the number of people who did the work? [more inside]
posted by mpls2 at 10:01 AM PST - 9 comments

Help me manage the transition to daycare!

My 17-month-old is starting daycare for the first time. Should we send her for two, or three days per week? And what changes should I expect in her personality or our relationship as a result of this? [more inside]
posted by Bardolph at 9:56 AM PST - 16 comments

In mid-sept I will go to court in San Francisco as a plaintiff in a small claims case that I filed.

In mid-sept I will go to court in San Francisco as a plaintiff in a small claims case that I filed. [more inside]
posted by uhom at 9:52 AM PST - 5 comments

In Dune, why doesn't the Spacing Guild take over the universe?

Dune question: Why doesn't the Spacing Guild just take over the universe? [more inside]
posted by Cool Papa Bell at 9:49 AM PST - 34 comments

Can I fix my cabinet hinge, or do I need to replace it?

The hinge on our kitchen cabinets has come apart, and I don't know if I can repair it. Replacement is only $6 or so, but I'll have to wait on delivery. It's a salice hinge, and there are 2 pieces, one on the door and one on the cabinet. There's some linkage that hooks the two pieces together, but I didn't install them so I have no idea how they fit together. Here is a picture of a similar hinge, with an annotation of where the separation has happened. Anyone familiar with salice hinges? Anything I can do, or should I just replace and be done?
posted by ivey at 9:41 AM PST - 6 comments

So, what are the kids uploading these days?

I'm interested in usage patterns of user-generated media. Are the large sites that collect a lot of photos and videos from users (Facebook, Flickr, YouTube, etc.) publishing any kind of data on what people are uploading? [more inside]
posted by mkultra at 8:57 AM PST - 1 comment

I know it's your policy, but please??

I was 2 hours late dropping off a rental car and they charged me an extra full day, which is their policy. What would be my best negotiation stance for calling up corporate and asking for something, a discount or whatever? [more inside]
posted by thebazilist at 8:52 AM PST - 16 comments

Portrait of the Artist as a Young Woman

Parents kept my high school art. I'm 34 and they've now given it back to me. What the hell do I do with it? [more inside]
posted by Leezie at 8:19 AM PST - 19 comments

Desperately Seeking Quiet

Is there any residential facility you know, anywhere in the country, to be both committed to quiet enjoyment and surrounded by acres of trees? Extra points for subsidized over 55 as one of us is retired and we think we'd fare better with an older crowd. We must keep rent between seven and nine hundred. [more inside]
posted by tangram1 at 8:12 AM PST - 5 comments

Tracking the top titles.

What sales figures for books are needed to constitute "bestseller" status in Mainland China? [more inside]
posted by Gordion Knott at 7:56 AM PST - 1 comment

Pro brain, kindergarten skills

Guitarists: How do you wish you had started? [more inside]
posted by range at 7:54 AM PST - 31 comments

How to get rid of dog's skin allergies and hot spots?

Best treatment for a dog with skin allergies and hot spots? [more inside]
posted by jwfree at 7:54 AM PST - 22 comments

Are there any presentation stages like Sidney Harmon Hall in Washington, D.C. in the western part of the US?

Are there any presentation stages like Sidney Harmon Hall in Washington, D.C. in the western part of the US? [more inside]
posted by kaufmajm at 7:36 AM PST - 0 comments

Help me quit smoking!

Help me quit smoking! [more inside]
posted by griphus at 7:29 AM PST - 29 comments

Need ideas for a "techy" grand opening.

My university is about to open a brand new engineering and technology building. I need ideas for a cool "high tech" ribbon-cutting ceremony.
posted by thisisdrew at 7:22 AM PST - 11 comments

How do I build an iphone app for my podcast?

How do I build an iphone app for my podcast? I want to include the podcast feed, youtube video feed, twitter feed, feedback form and phone number link. (Criteria: must use free tools only, no ads, easy for non-programmer with some CSS/HTML experience, retain ownership and complete control. Bonus points for easy port to Android)
posted by JPDD at 7:16 AM PST - 5 comments

How do I say or write, "You have the wrong number, please stop calling" in Vietnamese?

How do I say or write, "You have the wrong number, please stop calling" in Vietnamese? [more inside]
posted by palomar at 7:05 AM PST - 14 comments

How to search for a particular frame within a video?

I have 50 video files. Each is 25 minutes long and I need to top and tail them leaving only the 10 minute program. The programs all start the same way and end the same way. I have grabbed the first and last frames from one of the files so I need a way of searching for these in the other files. Presumably they won't be an exact match due to compression artifacts etc. [more inside]
posted by Jim H at 6:52 AM PST - 2 comments

Trees, Bees and Butterflies.

Are borer bees killing my beech tree? [more inside]
posted by Classic Diner at 6:37 AM PST - 3 comments

What made you emerge?

Slightly older mefites: What is one thing about life that you get satisfaction out of now that you would not have appreciated in your early to mid 20s? [more inside]
posted by the foreground at 6:36 AM PST - 76 comments

Can you recommend movies featuring touching interactions between non-alpha types?

Can you recommend some good romantic movies that feature people who might be considered by some to be 'losers' or, if not that harsh, people who would be considered generally unattractive due to looks or lifestyle or any other reason that would make one not alpha? Other necessary qualities are an excellent soundtrack and definitely a script that rises above the cliche. Any genre is fine, so long as there is something touching about the romantic link between the protagonists. [more inside]
posted by h00py at 6:32 AM PST - 47 comments

Allergic reation or parental overreacion?

Did my daughter have an allergic reaction to her snack? If so, what could have caused it? YANMD, obviously. [more inside]
posted by dogsbody at 6:31 AM PST - 6 comments

Mamma mia!

I'm looking for cartoonish, over-the-top, good-humored portrayals of ethnic and other stereotypes. [more inside]
posted by ixohoxi at 6:27 AM PST - 34 comments

I need more than zero options to treat the cancer.

How can I (a Canadian) take part in or find out if I am eligible for clinical trials happening at American hospitals? [more inside]
posted by Felicity Rilke at 6:16 AM PST - 1 comment

Brush up German specialised vocab

German import/export vocab [more inside]
posted by quaisi at 5:42 AM PST - 2 comments

Generation Ship Novels?

What are your favorite generation ship novels? [more inside]
posted by OmieWise at 5:37 AM PST - 20 comments

Help me find a leather version of the cheap handbag that got me through law school!

Help me find a leather version of the cheap handbag that got me through law school! I'm convinced the lady lawyers at work are snickering at me behind their backs for carrying my tattered PVC bag. [more inside]
posted by anthropomorphic at 5:30 AM PST - 24 comments

I am allergic to something in my apartment but i can't tell what!

I am allergic to my apartment, but I don't know from what! [more inside]
posted by atetrachordofthree at 4:54 AM PST - 13 comments

Finder Blues

Using Finder is murdering my mind. What's the most efficient way to move/delete/rename files, view sort by metadata? On a Mac. Getting good with unix commands? Some sort of Vim file management system cobbled together with plugins?
posted by parallax7d at 4:02 AM PST - 11 comments

Find me a route . . .

Planning / scheduling / dispatch software for a (small) airport taxi company? I'm struggling to find options for the above which aren't much too heavy / costly / over-featured for the size of business. [more inside]
posted by protorp at 3:26 AM PST - 1 comment

Help me pick a phone.

Please help me pick a mobile phone/carrier in the US. [more inside]
posted by and hey Charlie at 3:15 AM PST - 11 comments

Looking for old black and white cartoon featuring a battle between the happy people and the sad people.

Boomers! Does anyone remember an old black and white cartoon I saw in the early 1950s featuring a battle between the happy guys and the sad guys? [more inside]
posted by sugarbx19 at 2:42 AM PST - 7 comments

Merino for the fatter cyclist?

I have read that merino wool is the ideal base layer for cyclists because it soaks up sweat without getting cold, clammy and smelly. This is just what I need for my daily cycle commute. But I tried on some merino long-sleeve t-shirts, and found that I am too fat to wear them decently. Are there merino blends, cuts or alternatives that have the desirable sweat-eating properties but won't cling so faithfully to my bulges?
posted by beniamino at 2:15 AM PST - 10 comments

Looking for more food to set on fire.

What do you use your kitchen torch for, besides caramelizing sugar? [more inside]
posted by Saminal at 2:06 AM PST - 22 comments

August 30

What is this sad 80s song that I love?

A song. From the 80s. Almost no information. Go! [more inside]
posted by Roman Graves at 10:38 PM PST - 10 comments

London Tube buttons?

Does the London Underground have an equivalent souvenir product to the Toronto subway buttons? [more inside]
posted by Schlimmbesserung at 10:19 PM PST - 7 comments

The very formidable (and presumably hungry) caterpillar

While tubing down the Green River in western NC, I came across this curious caterpillar floating in the water. This is the largest caterpillar I've ever seen, and I'm baffled by it. Mind helping to identify it?
posted by moonbird at 10:10 PM PST - 8 comments

Lady Gaga concert recordings?

Are there any professional-quality recordings of Lady Gaga live performances? [more inside]
posted by LSK at 9:51 PM PST - 5 comments

I've been using Amazon to sell used books but USPS shipping costs cause my net earnings to be nearly nil. What am I doing wrong?

I've been using Amazon to sell used books but USPS shipping costs cause my net earnings to be nearly nil. What am I doing wrong? [more inside]
posted by Jason and Laszlo at 9:33 PM PST - 12 comments

DFW-area LARP-ers?

Can anyone put me in contact with DFW-area LARP-ers? I have done the Googling, but can't find any groups that seem to be currently active or have good contact links. It would be great to get a contact from someone who actually knows a group/some individuals. This is for a video project. [more inside]
posted by emjaybee at 9:32 PM PST - 6 comments

Casual every-day questions that reveal a persons true personality?

Casual every-day questions that reveal a persons true personality? [more inside]
posted by servix at 9:20 PM PST - 42 comments

Tea at Claridges?

Dear me, I'm from the colonies and have no idea. Elegant, interesting, London-based giftcard (or somesuch) for an online friend's wedding. Suggestions? [more inside]
posted by Mrs Hilksom at 8:58 PM PST - 13 comments

Good sources for videos on psychology?

I'm looking for video sites like TED or Big Think that has researchers talking about their projects and areas of expertise. Any other similar sites out there you've liked? Preferably in the area of psychology/human nature [more inside]
posted by gilsonal at 8:44 PM PST - 7 comments

And no, not a Snuggy...

What's the most useful item you own that would easily fit into a backpack? [more inside]
posted by karminai at 8:34 PM PST - 40 comments

Non-repetitive electronic music?

Recommend me non-repetitive electronic music. [more inside]
posted by fizzzzzzzzzzzy at 8:01 PM PST - 24 comments

Is an iPad the best candidate for my stepdad's work computer?

Is an iPad the best candidate for my stepdad's work computer? [more inside]
posted by MiggySawdust at 7:41 PM PST - 20 comments

In search of intertwined short stories

ISO collections of intertwined short stories. [more inside]
posted by ClaudiaCenter at 7:19 PM PST - 27 comments

Dimly remembered creepy movie

I'm trying to remember a movie in which a woman was chained to a wall or ceiling, and an unattractive bald or blond man approached her with a worm-looking growth emerging from his forehead toward her face. What is the movie? [more inside]
posted by mchorn at 7:08 PM PST - 7 comments

Nuance? I don't want no stinking nuance.

I want movies where someone is pushed too far and finally fights back. [more inside]
posted by jsturgill at 7:07 PM PST - 72 comments

Help My Accounting Duh

In double-entry bookkeeping, are taxes a liability or an expense? [more inside]
posted by swift at 6:52 PM PST - 8 comments

what's the name of that poem with the dogs and the breakfast?

What's the name of (and where can i find) the Buddhist-y poem that has a line that goes something along the lines of 'send us dogs when we expect breakfast?' [more inside]
posted by andreapandrea at 6:50 PM PST - 5 comments

in need of a driver for a ide controller

i run win xp i need a3k46zam ide controller driver but i cannot find it my sound doesnt play on any speaker but for some reason headsets do ... and ive tried driver dling programs nada
posted by quseio at 6:47 PM PST - 3 comments

Best baseball radio announcer in the east.

There's something special about listening to a baseball game on the radio, and even though I'm not a huge baseball fan, I'd like to start listening to more games. Since I don't have any particular geographic preference (having lived all over the US), I'm free to choose any team in the east; I live in the mid-Atlantic area but can regularly pull in stations from Chicago, St. Louis, New York, Atlanta, etc. So, which baseball announcer is the best? [more inside]
posted by math at 6:43 PM PST - 21 comments

Old fashion gravestrone

Where can one find someone to make an out-of-the-ordinary gravestone? One involving actual stone carving? [more inside]
posted by ackptui at 6:41 PM PST - 8 comments

Behind an able man, there are always...what? THERE ARE ALWAYS WHAT??

What is my fortune cookie trying to tell me? [more inside]
posted by phunniemee at 6:26 PM PST - 17 comments

Bodies? We don't need no stinkin' bodies.

What sci-fi or dystopian (or even utopian) stories of the future involve a form of humanity that has outgrown the need for any corporeal manifestation in favor a completely cerebral existence? [more inside]
posted by mediocritease at 6:25 PM PST - 40 comments

What do I do with this piercing during surgery?

I'm having surgery but I have a septum piercing (14 gauge), what do I do? [more inside]
posted by MaryDellamorte at 6:23 PM PST - 18 comments

Coping (or not) with the job search

Where can I find a therapist / support group that specializes in job search coaching with experience in treating social anxiety and other irrational emotions? [more inside]
posted by bad grammar at 6:19 PM PST - 4 comments

SAmsung CD Drive Won't Read Some CD's

Why does my external DVD/CD drive read some CD's and not others? Can I fix it? [more inside]
posted by nestor_makhno at 5:45 PM PST - 4 comments

If I threw up Cipro an hour after taking it, did I absorb the dose?

I have food poisoning. I have been on Cipro since Sunday evening. I have not had vomiting from the disease, but bowel troubles. I took a dose of Cipro an hour ago, and I just threw up. Vomiting is a known side effect from the medicine, but should I be worried I didn't absorb the dose? How fast does your body process this stuff?
posted by Tesseractive at 5:39 PM PST - 11 comments

Help identify this fungus growing in & near our bathroom?

Bathroom Fungus/Mold Identification: Can you tell me what these little yellow tubes are? [more inside]
posted by Zephyrial at 5:22 PM PST - 6 comments

Create static link to blog page

I've recently changed my word press theme. I have four static pages on the site with links to them on the top of every page. But when I changed themes, I lost a navigational link to my blog. Now the only way to navigate to my blog from a static page is to click on the name of the blog in the header. This isn't obvious to a user so my question is: how do I create a blog link adjacent to the static page links on the top of every page?
posted by captainscared at 5:16 PM PST - 1 comment

Seeking family-friendly beach resort near NYC

Do you know of a family-friendly beach hotel or resort within a few hours' driving distance from NYC? [more inside]
posted by whoiam at 4:35 PM PST - 12 comments

Salad Nirvana

Why are salads at restaurants so much better than at home? [more inside]
posted by otherwordlyglow at 4:29 PM PST - 38 comments

Can somone help me get a PS3 connected to the internet

Help me get my friends PS3 to properly connect to the internet. [more inside]
posted by Dick Laurent is Dead at 4:09 PM PST - 4 comments

Putting my logo in photos

How do add my logo to photos i'm editing in photoshop? [more inside]
posted by Salvatorparadise at 4:08 PM PST - 6 comments

Youthful uneducation

My boyfriend has a 19 year old son who wants to quit college. [more inside]
posted by fuzzypinkslippers at 4:04 PM PST - 29 comments

What's a hobby I can do in very small spurts (5-10 mins.)?

What's a hobby I can do in very small spurts (5-10 mins.)? [more inside]
posted by foursentences at 3:37 PM PST - 33 comments

Tell me more about my gay genes!

So I'm gay. Turns out a lot of folks in my extended family are as well. What are the odds? Has anyone studied extended family charting specifically? [more inside]
posted by Tchad at 3:31 PM PST - 13 comments

schnell schnell kartoffelkopf

I might try Babel Fish but lest I burn my face off, translation bitte! Altbewahrtes Atzmittel... [more inside]
posted by run"monty at 3:27 PM PST - 7 comments

How best to go from Boston to Cape Cod?

I need to get from Logan Airport in Boston to Eastham, MA (outer Cape Cod) on Friday, September 3. What's the best way to do it? [more inside]
posted by kate blank at 3:25 PM PST - 18 comments

coffee hour, all the time

Creative ways to give away coffee? [more inside]
posted by puckish at 3:21 PM PST - 11 comments

How do I extract movies from a homemade DVD?

My Dad burned me a DVD of home movies. Is there an easy, free way to extract clips in a common format? [more inside]
posted by sidereal at 3:09 PM PST - 7 comments

what's a good job for someone who isn't great at anything?

College senior here. What's a good job for someone that really isn't that good at anything? [more inside]
posted by lovelygirl at 3:09 PM PST - 20 comments

Any creative ways to use an old moleskine daily planner?

I'm looking for ideas on how to use an old Moleskine 2006 Daily planner. [more inside]
posted by supermario at 2:56 PM PST - 9 comments

Death of attraction? Hopefully not...

Not really sure how to let this out to my college counselor. In February of this year, I came out to my mom and brother. Things were better than I thought they would turn out to be. A couple of month later, my Dad somehow got the impression that we were all hiding something from him and as such, coerced me to tell him what was going on. I told him. He was somewhat judgmental of me and I completely stopped talking to him about these topics. Ever since that, I've been worried about how my future decisions will affect my relationship with my parents. [more inside]
posted by antgly at 2:53 PM PST - 54 comments

How can I help my academically failing brother before it's too late?

How can I offer options to a low-achieving California high school senior? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:51 PM PST - 21 comments

Dating With Herpes

What do I do as a gay man who may have Herpes? [more inside]
posted by cscott at 2:31 PM PST - 7 comments

I want to have my sister in my pocket!

Need help with the logistics of best communicating with my sister in Europe. [more inside]
posted by Tarumba at 2:14 PM PST - 14 comments

What's the most effective way to generate press for my gym?

I run an unusual fitness facility, and am trying to get media coverage. I've never written a press release before, and I'm stalled. I've googled, but would love to hear from members of the press what kind of "hook" and/or format is most appealing and therefor likely to be turned into a story. [more inside]
posted by lizifer at 1:55 PM PST - 19 comments

How to get wrinkles out of shrink to fit jeans?

How to get wrinkles out of shrink to fit jeans? [more inside]
posted by nivekraz at 1:51 PM PST - 5 comments

Neat spots to record in Portland, OR

Do you know of any sweet, kinda secluded spots in Portland, OR that might sound cool if one were to record music being played in them? [more inside]
posted by Corduroy at 1:51 PM PST - 11 comments

Where can I go for a great view of the New York (Manhattan) skyline?

Where can I go for a great view of the New York (Manhattan) skyline? [more inside]
posted by thelatermonths at 1:47 PM PST - 19 comments

Nag's Head fine dining filter

I am consulting the excellent hive mind tour guide :) Can you recommend a fine dining restaurant in the Nag's Head N.C. area? [more inside]
posted by Librarygeek at 1:22 PM PST - 6 comments

Where can I find a high-quality video of Steve Jobs introducing the original iPhone online?

Where can I find a high-quality video of Steve Jobs introducing the original iPhone online? [more inside]
posted by mattholomew at 1:11 PM PST - 3 comments

Borovicka recipe

Anybody got a recipe for a traditional Slovak juniper liqueur, "borovicka"?
posted by leigh1 at 1:11 PM PST - 3 comments

What are the best study skills you can think of?

What are the best study skills you can share with me? For knowledge retention, passing tests, hearing skills and the like... [more inside]
posted by ptsampras14 at 1:04 PM PST - 31 comments

Help me transfer!

I want to successfully transfer to a better college. How does the process work? What should I know? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 12:51 PM PST - 14 comments

how long is too long to wait?

Unemployed significant other filter: how long is too long to wait? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 12:50 PM PST - 67 comments

Help fixing a Farfisa?

Where in Austin (besides Switched On) can I get the spring reverb tank on a Farfisa combo organ repaired? [more inside]
posted by kaseijin at 12:46 PM PST - 4 comments

oxyacetylene torch

Bought a garage sale oxyacetylene torch. Is it safe? Is it repairable? [more inside]
posted by luge at 12:26 PM PST - 10 comments

Microcinemas in Berlin, Glasgow and London

I have the opportunity this October to travel to three cities in Europe (Glasgow, London and Berlin) and am searching for microcinemas or arts organizations in these three cities that might be interested in hosting a screening of shorts by NW experimental filmmakers and video artists. Any suggestions would be most appreciated. Thx [more inside]
posted by artradio at 12:13 PM PST - 7 comments

What sites are highly skewed toward specific genders?

What sites are highly skewed toward specific genders? i.e. iVillage, Cosmopolitan.com for Females and SportsIllustrated.com, fantasysports.com, caranddriver.com for Males? [more inside]
posted by neilkod at 12:06 PM PST - 32 comments

Ugly office needs a makeover!

I desperately need an office makeover. DIY tips, recommendations (photos inside) and links to your favorite design blogs would be much appreciated! [more inside]
posted by giraffe at 11:54 AM PST - 17 comments

I'm learnding!

SAS Filter: Is there a good MetaFilter-esque bulletin board where I can ask questions? [more inside]
posted by unannihilated at 11:50 AM PST - 6 comments

FontExplorer won't import most of my fonts

Mac OS X 10.5.8 - using Linotype FontExplorer version 1.2.3 -- can't get my fonts to import on the new computer. [more inside]
posted by tzikeh at 11:49 AM PST - 2 comments

Calm. At Ease.

Do you have any quick phrases or slogans that you like to repeat yourself to get yourself to calm down (or at least NOT panic) when entering an anxiety-inducing situation? [more inside]
posted by AlbatrossJones at 11:33 AM PST - 96 comments

Staying connected during sex?

I dissociate during sex, but I haven't been sexually abused or assaulted. What is my problem? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 11:32 AM PST - 17 comments

Smarty Pants?

Was there ever a study that suggested that children become more successful / independent / happy / etc. when they're allowed to choose their own outfits from an early age? [more inside]
posted by rouftop at 11:32 AM PST - 3 comments

Please Help My Dad's Business Stay Afloat!

Good and cheap laptop rental in Minneapolis/western suburbs? [more inside]
posted by mixer at 11:18 AM PST - 6 comments

Help me plan my awesome Southeast Asia journey

What is the best time of year to travel in Southeast Asia? [more inside]
posted by Afroblanco at 11:14 AM PST - 15 comments

Where to next, Boston?

Romantic or inspiring experiences in or around Boston? [more inside]
posted by hermitosis at 11:13 AM PST - 28 comments

I’ll never be lonely when I am alone and I keep myself to myself...

Introvert theme songs? [more inside]
posted by elsietheeel at 11:11 AM PST - 52 comments

sending money from USA to a non-cuban in Cuba

How do I send money to a non-relative African citizen in Cuba from USA? [more inside]
posted by Jeebu at 11:09 AM PST - 11 comments

Why is my new Xbox 360's output all pixellated?

Xbox 360. HDMI. 1080p monitor. Why am I only getting a 720p picture? [more inside]
posted by Ryon at 10:48 AM PST - 19 comments

Am I being too ambitious?

I've enrolled in three classes at my local community college to obtain two post-BA certificates. I need to decide if I'm making a good decision or if my eyes are bigger than my brain.... [more inside]
posted by slyboots421 at 10:38 AM PST - 8 comments

Why do some movies looks worse in HD?

Why does avatar look so much WORSE on nice HD TVs? [more inside]
posted by Telf at 10:34 AM PST - 15 comments

Needed: Post-Summertime Eligible Dependent Care Expense Ideas

YNMA, obviously... wife and I overestimated our dependent care expenses this year...by a lot. I have to come up with valid expenses, for the remainder of 2010, that we can occur to cover 3K remaining in our account. Any ideas? We did the camp thing this summer, but ended up not signing up for a few of them from our original budget. Our son is in kindergarten at a private school, so we're past the time we can pay for tuition out of this account. PLEASE HELP!!!! Thanks mefite nation!!!
posted by littleredwagon at 10:29 AM PST - 14 comments

Fairfax City or County?

Fairfax County or City of Fairfax? How do I know where I live? [more inside]
posted by specialagentwebb at 10:27 AM PST - 6 comments

Seattle Band Website Programmer Recommendation?

Need a decent band website. Who's good (and affordable!) in the greater Seattle area? No, we don't want to make do with a MySpace page. And we're a cover band, if that helps.
posted by dorgla at 10:18 AM PST - 4 comments

Using "the" with neighborhood names: a Bay Area thing?

Using "the" with neighborhood names: a Bay Area thing? [more inside]
posted by madcaptenor at 9:57 AM PST - 52 comments

Resuming unemployment benefits after work?

Can I resume unemployment benefits after temporary work ends in Washington state? What is the process? [more inside]
posted by lattiboy at 9:16 AM PST - 2 comments

Negotiating custom car deals

How do I get the best deal when custom-ordering a new car? [more inside]
posted by sharding at 9:11 AM PST - 7 comments

Found undies that aren't mine. Now what?

Found underwear in the laundry that wasn't mine. Now what? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:08 AM PST - 50 comments

How to handle this delicate work situation?

An employee/friend came and confided that they are six weeks pregnant. Our boss has been hinting at reducing her hours and does not know she's pregnant. What to do, how to handle this in a professional manner? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:07 AM PST - 15 comments

Help me help my feets!

My feet are sad. What are the tools and techniques I can use to make them happier? [more inside]
posted by A Terrible Llama at 9:05 AM PST - 18 comments

Should I go to college for journalism if I want to be a journalist?

Should I go to college for journalism if I want to be a journalist? I'm really interested in radio and photo documentaries. [more inside]
posted by ejfox at 8:58 AM PST - 19 comments

Sometimes it's just a prop.

Turning a cigarillo into a costume prop. [more inside]
posted by Wossname at 8:57 AM PST - 14 comments

DIY grouting help, please!

I need to regrout some bathroom tiles, and I need help with some specific questions. I'm very overwhelmed with the amount of information out there and having trouble narrowing. [more inside]
posted by Eyebrows McGee at 8:31 AM PST - 11 comments

Search for lowest airfare on specific dates?

I need a travel search tool that will alert me when fares between 2 locations on my select dates drop below X. Surely there must be such a thing? [more inside]
posted by widdershins at 8:25 AM PST - 9 comments

Google docs has denied us access to a document, saying "it is in violation of our Terms of Service." We need that document! What can we do?

Google docs has denied us access to a document, saying "it is in violation of our Terms of Service." We need that document! What can we do? [more inside]
posted by ManInSuit at 8:21 AM PST - 23 comments

Who wrote/published/owns the "Piracy, It's a Crime" music?

Does anyone know the musician, composer, label, publishing company or licensing agency responsible for the music on the Piracy, It's a Crime advert? This is, ironically, so we can clear a sample for use in a fairly high profile UK music release. We've cleared all the other samples for this record, but we're drawing a blank on who to ask for this piece. Any pointers or clues, however slim or however many steps away from the people who can give us permission to use this music, are extremely welcome.
posted by caek at 8:12 AM PST - 3 comments

NYCFilter: Can anyone personally recommend a dentist in Midtown?

NYCFilter: Can anyone personally recommend a dentist in Midtown? [more inside]
posted by aloysius on the mixing boards at 8:05 AM PST - 8 comments

New Road Warrior Needs Advice

Calling all you seasoned road warriors. I'm starting a new job where I'll be traveling at least 40% of the time. [more inside]
posted by white_devil at 7:38 AM PST - 45 comments

Webcam suggestions for Grandma?

What webcam/video chat setup would you recommend, if you had to set one up for a technophobe grandma, in order to let her see her grandchildren? [more inside]
posted by kristin at 7:24 AM PST - 10 comments

How to read personality in 30 seconds

How to read somebody's personality in 30 seconds? [more inside]
posted by damian_ at 7:04 AM PST - 6 comments

Is visiting a sex worker an inherently bad idea?

I am seriously considering visiting a sex worker. Is this an inherently bad idea? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:04 AM PST - 64 comments

How can one make "restaurant quality food" at home?

How can one make "restaurant quality food" at home? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:04 AM PST - 36 comments

Pimp my Pandora mixtape.

If you have them, I would like your recommendations for most eclectic Pandora stations ever. [more inside]
posted by middleclasstool at 6:49 AM PST - 7 comments

21st century couch potato

I plan to hook up our new 13" MacBook Pro to our HDTV and am wondering if I should get either the magic mouse or the magic trackpad to control it from the couch. Any first hand experiences? I'm assuming that either option would be more useful than the apple remote (for watching youtubes and the like).
posted by bonobothegreat at 6:39 AM PST - 9 comments

Hand washing in the kitchen sink

Is it okay to wash your hands in the kitchen sink? [more inside]
posted by unliteral at 6:04 AM PST - 38 comments

My life is in shambles. How do I reclaim it?

I nearly failed out of college a few years ago. I took a break, came back and finished my degree in 2009, but now I am unemployable because my GPA is a mess. Should I redo undergrad? [more inside]
posted by Team of Scientists at 5:46 AM PST - 39 comments

What does it say in this Arabic banner?

Gaddafi Pays Italian Models To Attend A Party That Is Actually An Islam Recruit Fete. Can you tell me what the banner in Arabic they hang inside reads?
posted by procrastinator at 5:08 AM PST - 2 comments

Looking for smart pregnancy/parenting memoirs

Looking for intelligent writing (especially memoirs) on pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting that aren't fluffy/mainstream "how-to" guides, as a gift to an expectant couple in their early/mid 20s. [more inside]
posted by autoclavicle at 4:48 AM PST - 19 comments

Ansel Adams and digital cameras

Looking for information about Ansel Adams (possibly?) using an early digital camera. [more inside]
posted by Noah at 1:46 AM PST - 3 comments

How to set up a montly spending budget as self-employed?

Self-employed types with variable monthly incomes: how do you set up and stick to a monthly spending budget? [more inside]
posted by El Curioso at 12:12 AM PST - 7 comments

August 29

GOMF for Win7/64?

I need a "get out of my face" app for Win7/64. [more inside]
posted by Chocolate Pickle at 11:46 PM PST - 9 comments

Someone has been harassing & trying to get into a friends house for over a year. Police/cameras haven't stopped him, what can we do?

Someone has been harassing & trying to get into a friends house for over a year. Police/cameras haven't stopped him, what can we do? [more inside]
posted by ben5757 at 11:33 PM PST - 30 comments

How can I make my own pourable chocolate topping?

I've tried unsuccessfully to find a recipe for a pourable chocolate sauce/icecream topping that I can put in bottles to give as gifts. [more inside]
posted by Zaire at 10:40 PM PST - 7 comments

Am I losing one of my senses?

When experiencing hearing loss, can you hear inside your head? What factors can contribute to hearing loss? At the ripe old age of 25 am I going deaf? [more inside]
posted by Carlotta Bananas at 9:46 PM PST - 21 comments

Tell me what to wear.

OK SO...I'm sure this question has been asked to death, but where can I find clothes online for my specific/special tastes? I'm looking for thrift-type places that sell cheap clothes (under $50) still appropriate for the 18-24 age range. [more inside]
posted by lhude sing cuccu at 9:00 PM PST - 31 comments

My goal is to complete a sprint triathlon this fall.

My goal is to complete a sprint triathlon this fall. Please help me be a better runner so I can run 5k without feeling like I want to keel over. [more inside]
posted by st starseed at 8:45 PM PST - 14 comments

Help two love birds find their nest.

My life partner and I are interested in buying a house together. We both have excellent credit but low incomes (we are small business owners). Where is the best place for us to start as far as understanding what our options are - bankers, brokers, real estate agents, or some intermediary profession / organization that could give us advice on how to proceed? I actually own a house but we would like to start fresh. We would like to rent out my house rather than sell it. Any information, advice would be truly appreciated. Thank you.
posted by zoesmom at 8:44 PM PST - 7 comments

What in the hell is the name of this book?

Yet another I-can't-recall-what-book-this-is question. Vague details inside. [more inside]
posted by ThaBombShelterSmith at 8:28 PM PST - 5 comments

Are my tomatoes doomed?

Do my tomato plants have late blight? And if so, is there anything I can do other than destroy them? [more inside]
posted by milkcrateman at 8:01 PM PST - 3 comments

Bugging out over bed bugs!

Can you get bedbugs from sitting on a recently infested(but treated) couch for 5 minutes? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:59 PM PST - 12 comments

Is three a crowd?

Asking for a friend....NYCDogFilter: Can two early 20s newlyweds (students and/or with jobs) with their first tiny 1bdrm apartment deal with having a dog? Logistics issues? Potential for difficulties? Anecdotal evidence?
posted by weaponsgradecarp at 7:52 PM PST - 14 comments

Help me find a laugh in this New Yorker cartoon

I don't get this New Yorker cartoon! [more inside]
posted by ragtimepiano at 7:49 PM PST - 24 comments

Telling someone new about my blow-job hang-up.

I have a hang-up about performing blow-jobs due to prior sexual assault. How do I relay this to new partners? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:36 PM PST - 37 comments

Should I give this caregiver a bad review?

A little over three weeks ago, after a rather exhaustive search, I hired a nanny who, the day before she was to start, emailed that she will be taking daytime classes after all and hence cannot work for us. Leaving my family good and fucked. [more inside]
posted by digitalprimate at 7:06 PM PST - 51 comments

Remedial Cooking

How can I learn to cook, starting from nearly perfect ignorance? [more inside]
posted by enn at 7:01 PM PST - 42 comments

How to buy a food cart in New York?

Looking to buy some food carts. Anyone have advice for who I should talk to in New York City when I'm there next month? [more inside]
posted by ZackTM at 6:49 PM PST - 1 comment

Questions about creating a modern web/graphic design portfolio

Some questions about creating a modern (online) web/graphic design portfolio... [more inside]
posted by foxy at 6:43 PM PST - 5 comments

How to remedy a curled back-of-the-heel?

Another day, another shoe problem. [more inside]
posted by pxe2000 at 6:43 PM PST - 9 comments

Feeding for fun and profit

[Breakfast filter]: It's the first morning of your getaway weekend in a great cottage with a well equipped kitchen. Your breakfast basket with provisions for cooking your own breakfast has just arrived. What would you like to find inside it? [more inside]
posted by Kerasia at 6:25 PM PST - 40 comments

What's the term for eating creatures in order to absorb their powers?

Is there a technical term for "eating an animal in order to gain its power?" [more inside]
posted by reverend cuttle at 6:12 PM PST - 14 comments

Buy Sketchup Pro?

Is Sketchup Pro worth $495? [more inside]
posted by ecourbanist at 6:06 PM PST - 3 comments

How do I learn what I need to know about buying a home?

How do people know what is happening in the real estate market? I'm starting to think about buying my first home (house/condo/whatever) and, since I like to know how everything works before I do it, I'm looking for recommendations on where to start learning. [more inside]
posted by machine at 5:53 PM PST - 6 comments

Must 9-1-1 callers give their date of birth?

Calling 9-1-1; is it standard for dispatchers to require the caller's date of birth before responding? [more inside]
posted by ahaynes at 5:35 PM PST - 34 comments

Great Resturant in Chicago?

Whats a great place to take my sister out to a surprise dinner in the city of Chicago close to Loyola university? [more inside]
posted by NotSoSiniSter at 5:19 PM PST - 10 comments

How to fix a stupid text broken up closure?

How to fix a stupid text broken up closure? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:18 PM PST - 19 comments

What are the rules on keeping sentimental stuff from previous relationships?

What are the rules on keeping sentimental stuff from previous relationships? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:16 PM PST - 26 comments

First timer setting up wifi, help?

I have never set up wireless internet before. I'm going to college later this week. There's internet in my dorms, but no WiFi. What do I need to set up WiFi in my room? [more inside]
posted by JimBennett at 5:06 PM PST - 23 comments

Early monring volunteer work

Help me volunteer in the morning. [more inside]
posted by gocubbies at 5:03 PM PST - 11 comments

Why would you publish something like that?

Word filter: What do I call a book that is bound from the top with spiral binding? In the style of a steno pad, but a completed, published book.
posted by EtzHadaat at 4:54 PM PST - 11 comments

What kind of hand-held device would entertain a child who is used to playing with an iPhone?

My three-year-old daughter loves to play with dad's iPhone, but he's starting to miss it. Is there some kind of hand-held device that has games and such that might entertain her? I hate to sound like such a noob/dork, but I don't know what's out there, so I don't know how to search. What would you get a three-year-old if you were trying to duplicate the experience of an iPhone without buying her an iPhone?
posted by orsonet at 4:30 PM PST - 23 comments

Need a flash of inspiration

Going nuts...why does my camera flash no longer work with my standalone strobes? [more inside]
posted by arniec at 4:09 PM PST - 7 comments

Help me stop thinking like an American!

What should I know about German customs/behavior/social norms before going there for 10 weeks? [more inside]
posted by coppermoss at 4:05 PM PST - 19 comments

What more can I do to try to get my deposit back?

Pennsylvania landlord is illegally withholding my deposit after I moved out of state. Have I exhausted all my options? [more inside]
posted by Meg_Murry at 3:21 PM PST - 5 comments

Beauty is where again?!

My boyfriend makes callous remarks about my weight, and checks out other (hot) women. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 3:09 PM PST - 98 comments

±99 Luftballons

I would like to float using balloons. Is this possible? How many will I need? [more inside]
posted by Chipmazing at 2:49 PM PST - 22 comments

Uhh... I'm at a loss.

I've been having bad luck finding a good book lately. Naturally, I turn to teh interwebz for help. Please to recommend me a good book? [more inside]
posted by chicago2penn at 2:36 PM PST - 21 comments

Where in Manhattan/Brooklyn can I buy Dogfish Head's Festina Peche in a bottle?

Where in Manhattan (or within 10 blocks of the F train in Brooklyn) can I buy Dogfish Head's Festina Peche in a bottle? Their site's store finder only shows where their products more generally are sold. Has anyone seen this particular beer at a store anywhere?
posted by unknowncommand at 2:32 PM PST - 12 comments

Make it stop.

My friend was killed in a car accident a couple days ago. I'm not coping so well, it seems. How can I rid my brain of involuntary (and horrific) visual images of his death? [more inside]
posted by heyho at 1:59 PM PST - 30 comments

Keeping cool at work

I take my lunch to work. Lately most of my coworkers have latched onto this idea as well, so the community refrigerators are packed full. Is there anything I can do or buy to keep my lunches cold at my desk? [more inside]
posted by fireoyster at 1:44 PM PST - 21 comments

Summer cold remedies?

My boyfriend has a cold and it's 85 degrees outside. It's too hot for chicken soup, so what can I do or make for him? [more inside]
posted by pintapicasso at 1:16 PM PST - 22 comments

Need some local advice...

Looking for work in Nashville [more inside]
posted by srbrunson at 1:14 PM PST - 7 comments

Help me find a new non-Mac 15" Windows 7 laptop. What manufacturer should I go with? Details inside.

Help me find a new non-Mac 15" Windows 7 laptop. What manufacturer should I go with? Details inside. [more inside]
posted by decrescendo at 12:48 PM PST - 16 comments

Fuzzy logic? What's the term for this method of argumentation.

Is there a term for back-arguing a conclusion? I can't even find the proper words to describe the method of argumentation I'm thinking of, but I'll do my best. Someone comes to a conclusion. They then search for a justification to reach that end, working backwards and incorrectly. Here's a real life example: [more inside]
posted by Brittanie at 11:31 AM PST - 32 comments

Dog injury, part deux.

My dog has a broken toe. I need help figuring out if her foot needs to be in a cast or not. [more inside]
posted by msali at 11:28 AM PST - 14 comments

Purring with rage

Addendum to this question... will my cat become bitter and angry from being crated for so long? [more inside]
posted by torisaur at 11:19 AM PST - 9 comments

Educated professionals for nutritional advice?

What kind of highly-educated specialist (MD or PhD-level expertise) would I want to go to for sophisticated and custom-tailored 1) nutritional and 2) exercise planning recommendations for body-building and weight-loss? I'm looking for experts who know the science and have experience and common sense. Any particular recommendations in NYC?
posted by shivohum at 10:45 AM PST - 16 comments

Help me become an organ donor.

Playing the translated Russian game 'Pathologic' on the PC. One immediate problem - I cannot for the life of me figure out how to trade items. [more inside]
posted by FatherDagon at 10:13 AM PST - 1 comment

Lowering interest rate w/o refinancing?

If I tell the bank who issued my mortgage that I am thinking about refinancing elsewhere, will they offer to lower my interest rate to stay? Does this ever happen? [more inside]
posted by coffee and minarets at 9:56 AM PST - 12 comments

help me buy a bag

Is it worth it to get a more expensive, leather bag over a cheap faux-leather bag? [more inside]
posted by insectosaurus at 9:01 AM PST - 32 comments

Help me find or design a pigeon-proof chicken feeder.

Help me find or design a pigeon-proof chicken feeder. [more inside]
posted by scrambles at 8:59 AM PST - 4 comments

Communication Breakdown

Am I fundamentally missing something? "Let's get a drink," or something extensionally equivalent thereto, from presumably single/presumably not-gay male to presumably single/presumably not-gay female he isn't already friends with, means "I want to bone you," right? Like, everyone, presumably including bay area women, do/can be reasonably expected to know that? [more inside]
posted by paultopia at 8:57 AM PST - 85 comments

Unprotected sex without STD testing first?

Girlfriend of more than a year recently went on the Pill. I said we should get STD tested before having unprotected sex; my tests came back negative but she's reluctant to get one. Should I compromise? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:47 AM PST - 48 comments

Friend sexually abused his girlfriends.

Found out a good friend sexually abused his girlfriends. Paralyzed. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:46 AM PST - 26 comments

High temperature adhesive for ceramics?

My brother sculpted me a beautiful ceramic incense burner for my birthday a few years ago after I finished taking Anthropology at school. The top part resembles the face of some distant human relative, and smoke flows out through the eyes, nose and mouth. Unfortunately, right after he gave it to me, a small piece got chipped off while it was in my backpack! Where can I find a small quantity of good high temperature ( ~ 500F - 2000F) adhesive suitable for ceramics?
posted by rhythmicahly at 8:34 AM PST - 5 comments

What's the best inexpensive last-minute way to travel from Boston to DC?

If you were looking to travel from Boston to Washington D.C. next week, as cheaply as possible, how would you do it? [more inside]
posted by .kobayashi. at 8:10 AM PST - 26 comments

Hi-rise apartment buildings?

I'm thinking of moving to a downtown hi-rise apartment building, from a low-rise complex in the suburbs. For those who have done this, what do you wish you had known before you did it?
posted by smackfu at 7:47 AM PST - 15 comments

Recommend an e-Reader

With failing eyesight I'm considering an e reader primarily to transfer articles (not necessarily PDFs) from online sources to a reader creating my own electronic magazine. I think I need a reader that will allow enlarging text, has sufficient contrast control to make text darker when necessary. Unfamiliar with any reader, and frustrated by the inability to get hands-on shopping experiences, I wonder what recommendations you might give. The Kindle, available at Amazon for $139, is affordable and currently is front runner.
posted by NorthCoastCafe at 7:28 AM PST - 13 comments

Oh crap...need more EINs!

Yes, I made up fake information...I'm trying to make it right, and I know I can make it right with $300 for new LLCs. But is there any cheaper way? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:18 AM PST - 12 comments

Scripting events on a jailbroken iPod

I have a jailbroken iPod with iOS 4. I would like to run a shell script when the device wakes from sleep, or when the wifi interface connects to a certain SSID. What can I use?
posted by harlan at 6:45 AM PST - 2 comments

What is this unholy design scheme?

Is there a name for this style of interior design, or is it just general weirdness? [more inside]
posted by malusmoriendumest at 6:36 AM PST - 9 comments

A few MacBook issues

I've an aging MacBook Pro, well exactly 3 years old. I've found that ever since a recent update by Apple the wifi frequently refuse some networks until the machine has been rebooted. Any fixes? Also, It appears the CD/DVD drive has now died. As I never used it, does anyone have good recommendations for repurposing the drive bay?
posted by jeffburdges at 6:10 AM PST - 2 comments

I'm not planning my graduation outfit just yet...

I'm going back to school after a 25 year break. I'm excited but increasingly nervous. What do you wish you knew when you returned to study but were out of practice? (Or when you embarked on distance education online?) [more inside]
posted by malibustacey9999 at 4:15 AM PST - 14 comments

Facebook friend request? Or not?

Facebook filter: What's the difference between Confirm and Add As Friend? [more inside]
posted by LonnieK at 4:09 AM PST - 10 comments

Ink keeps washing off my hand, I need a new money management method.

Help me find an iPhone and Mac program or method that will help me keep my client payments managed. How do other tutors keep their payments managed? [more inside]
posted by Knigel at 2:49 AM PST - 3 comments

Ways to deliberately deteriorate canvas?

As part of an art project I'm trying to find out what substances and techniques can be used to deliberately deteriorate and decay raw unprimed canvas (no paint) or other materials (wood, plastic, wallpaper etc). Preferably I'm looking for something that can be put on to do its deteriorating work, then washed or somehow taken off again so that process of deterioration is stopped. [more inside]
posted by halcorp at 2:22 AM PST - 8 comments

SDEs

Where can I find a proof for the strong order of convergence of the Euler-Maruyama or Milstein schemes used to model stochastic differential equations?
posted by moorooka at 2:18 AM PST - 4 comments

Calling all scientists: I need some advice about graduate school.

Is it too late for me to gain admission to the top PhD programs in the life sciences? What can I do to improve my chances besides the obvious? [more inside]
posted by WhitenoisE at 12:44 AM PST - 18 comments

Please help me understand Binx's journey in The Moviegoer

Please help me understand what exactly happened in The Moviegoer. [more inside]
posted by kalimac at 12:11 AM PST - 3 comments

Changing the name and address on an AT&T Premier account

I am signed up for an AT&T Premier account through a family member. They get the bill, I pay them, they pay AT&T - though there's a huge run-around of waiting for them to tell me the amount, getting the money to them, waiting for them to pay the bill. The family member tells me that the discount is only in effect if everything on the account stays the same. Really? I figure that I can change the name and/or billing address (so that the bill comes directly to me) and nothing happens, as long as the email stays authenticated. Or am I mistaken?
posted by Xere at 12:04 AM PST - 3 comments

August 28

How's the commute from Beacon Hill or Greenlake to downtown Seattle and Bellevue?

Looking for opinions on commuting from Greenlake or Beacon Hill to downtown Seattle and downtown Bellevue. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 10:10 PM PST - 13 comments

How would you do a team/individual foosball ladder?

Help me with a company foosball ladder. [more inside]
posted by empath at 9:43 PM PST - 4 comments

Fantasy Football and iPad

What is the best fantasy football app for the iPad if your league is on Yahoo!? [more inside]
posted by ctreadwell at 9:31 PM PST - 2 comments

How to clean unfinished plywood floor.

How to clean unfinished plywood floor. I want to mop and freshen the bare plywood floor in our unfinished attic. I've already swept and vacuumed it. The floor is not filthy, but there was rodent activity. I'd like to use a solution that sanitizes, if possible. But my priority is not to damage the wood. There is an oily patch left by the former owners. Smells like they spilled a bottle of lotion. I'm inclined to just mop over that patch and not try to remove the spot. We use the attic for our home gym -- it's not a place where we bring company. My bottles of Murphy's Oil Soap and Simple Green say "do not use on unfinished wood". Any recommendations for a cleaning solution?
posted by valannc at 8:42 PM PST - 19 comments

How to create a simple street map?

How can I print a simple line street map without the level of detail in Google Maps or Mapquest? [more inside]
posted by erloteiel at 8:18 PM PST - 8 comments

click click, who's there?

What is this clicking bug noise I heard at night? [more inside]
posted by jrishel at 8:04 PM PST - 11 comments

Roof Rack Reviews

Tell me your experiences with car roof racks. [more inside]
posted by sanka at 7:29 PM PST - 19 comments

Set up an aged XP laptop?

How best can I set up an ancient Gateway laptop? [more inside]
posted by solipsophistocracy at 7:26 PM PST - 10 comments

Mexican Rummy/21 Games, do you know these rules?

There's this card game my mom taught me called "21 Games" that's kind of like Rummy, it might also be called "Mexican Rummy"...do you know the rules? [more inside]
posted by pick_the_flowers at 7:22 PM PST - 2 comments

Cheap conference accommodation in Salt Lake City?

I'm going to a conference in Salt Lake City in late October and I need recommendations for places to stay for a week. [more inside]
posted by dohmer at 7:11 PM PST - 7 comments

How do I get to Macon, Missouri USA by public transport?

How do I get to Macon, Missouri USA by public transport? Greyhound is not an option apparently.
posted by Muhim Nest at 7:01 PM PST - 11 comments

Wedding Venue Catering Restrictions?

Perfect wedding venue (inexpensive yacht club in perfect spot in RI) wants a licensed caterer to prepare the food- but my good friends want to cook and are not licensed. -Is there a way to get around this? - Is there a way to find a caterer to do part of the meal and have my friend's supplement the menu with their own dishes? (ones that dont need the kitchen) - Any other advice on getting around this dilemma? -Do most venues have this requirement? Thanks so much!
posted by tessalations999 at 6:28 PM PST - 7 comments

Who dumped me?

Is there any way to have Facebook tell me who dropped off my friends list?
posted by Yakuman at 6:26 PM PST - 8 comments

Down with Facebook Message Boards

How can I delete the scrolling Facebook Message board from sites that aren't facebook sites? [more inside]
posted by Tavern at 6:22 PM PST - 1 comment

Trying to avoid drama between protective mother and laid-back grandparents

Grandparents (my parents) want to take my precocious ~3 year old and his ~5 year old cousin out for the day, wife is nervous and wants me to go, but the grandparents are put off, how do I handle this diplomatically? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 6:11 PM PST - 44 comments

I need a new kind of mouse.

Tell me about non-traditional (computer) mice. [more inside]
posted by Wordwoman at 6:06 PM PST - 7 comments

Guitar Hero Kick Pedal Dead

My Guitar Hero drum's kick pedal is dead. I looked online but there are a lot of options and mixed reviews for most of what I found. What's the best mix of frugality and "not going to die on me"-ality that I can find? I'm not opposed to buying an entire new set if that makes more sense.
posted by theichibun at 5:54 PM PST - 4 comments

Where can I buy Choco Tacos near Downtown Crossing in Boston?

Where can I buy Choco Tacos near Downtown Crossing in Boston? [more inside]
posted by contrarian at 5:03 PM PST - 14 comments

Name that film, eastern edition.

Identify a Japanese film from the 60s or 70s taking place partially in NYC please. [more inside]
posted by Iteki at 4:40 PM PST - 4 comments

One passport or two?

The mister has dual Canadian/British citizenship, hasn't resided in UK since 1946, and no plans to. However, we are planning extended visit to UK and Europe in a few years (we are retired), would there be any advantages to him getting a UK passport? He travels with a Canadian Passport. [more inside]
posted by batikrose at 4:18 PM PST - 18 comments

Seeking a bridge languate between PHP and Objective-C

I, like millions of others, want to learn Objective-C so I can write an iPhone app that will instantly sell ten million units and allow me to retire by year's end. I bought three books to help my on my way (1, 2, 3). Being well versed in web programming, I figured this would be a challenging, but possible transition. Boy oh boy was I wrong. Please help me find a bridge between my procedural PHP ninja skillz and the fantasical (and ever-frustrating) world of OOP C languages. [more inside]
posted by (bb|[^b]{2}) at 4:05 PM PST - 20 comments

site ok?

Is this game safe to download? [more inside]
posted by wandering_not_lost at 3:50 PM PST - 6 comments

Scheduling Tweets

I want to be able to schedule tweets. What's the best utility to use? [more inside]
posted by joannemerriam at 3:49 PM PST - 4 comments

USB Unplug / Replug Automation

I'm looking for a way to have a windows computer do the equivalent of unpluging and re plugging a usb modem. This system is accessed remotely via Logmein and it is connected to the internet by an external usb evdo modem. The system is located in a third world country and the connection is not reliable. When it goes down, unplugging/replugging sometimes does the trick. How can I make the computer do this on its own? [more inside]
posted by Popcorn at 3:38 PM PST - 8 comments

Where is this Buddhist Temple?

I found an exposed and undeveloped roll of 35mm film dated 1977, and had it developed. The pictures are here, most of them taken at this Buddhist temple, somewhere in Asia. Anyone know where the photos were taken? [more inside]
posted by ShooBoo at 3:35 PM PST - 10 comments

At what age does male body hair stop tend to stop spreading to new parts of the body?

At what age does male body hair stop tend to stop spreading to new parts of the body? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 3:32 PM PST - 20 comments

How can I enable my USB - getting BSOD and want to backup files.

It appears a virus has disabled my USB ports. I get the BSOD but can get to the Windows Recovery Console. I can see the USB ports in BIOS so how can I enable them? Bigger question is how to backup files from my hard drive while my PC is in this condition since it is not recognizing the USB?
posted by hrhcc at 3:19 PM PST - 9 comments

Looking for suggestions for a week-long solo trip.

Asking for a friend : Lots of airline/hotel points & a week's worth of time. He's looking for suggestions on what he might do. [more inside]
posted by jpziller at 2:39 PM PST - 5 comments

O, Apple, unbreak my heart...

I have lost my beloved ipod Shuffle! Will the newer model do the tricks I want it to do? [more inside]
posted by broadway bill at 1:39 PM PST - 15 comments

What gauge/type of strings for 3/4 scale steel string acoustic?

Guitarfilter - my son has a 3/4 scale acoustic steel-string guitar, and he wants some new strings. I'm a bit of a guitarist myself, so I know how to change them no problem, but before bebopping down to the local guitar shop, I'm curious - what gauge strings are best? [more inside]
posted by randomkeystrike at 1:36 PM PST - 14 comments

Rainy day games

What are some good board and card games for 3-4 year olds that a 6 year old might enjoy too? I'm think of Zingo and the like.
posted by Artw at 1:28 PM PST - 14 comments

Will winnings be taken in banko?

YANML: If you are receiving a lump sum after filing bankruptcy, but BEFORE the bankruptcy is discharged, can that be seized as an asset? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 1:28 PM PST - 9 comments

Broadband Card downloading

I have a laptop with a Verizon Broadband Card with a 5G plan allowance a month. I have no idea how far this will go, for example if I download a 2 hour movie off Netflix how much of my 5G would it use? Does it download the movie and then quit using the 5G while I am watching the movie?
posted by sandyp at 12:50 PM PST - 8 comments

How to wash gym shoes.

Can I wash my suede gym shoes? I ruined an old pair of the same model previously in the washing machine in a last effort to salvage them so this time around I am looking at hand washing. [more inside]
posted by dino terror at 12:39 PM PST - 5 comments

Open Source PHP Projects

Open Source PHP projects needing a bug fixer. [more inside]
posted by missmagenta at 12:20 PM PST - 5 comments

Now, picture the love-child of John Hodgman and Justin Long...

Am I crazy for considering a Hackintosh? [more inside]
posted by schmod at 12:06 PM PST - 23 comments

Thoroughly cleaning a pump espresso machine

I am borrowing a La Pavoni Europiccola (an Italian pump espresso machine) from someone who is not using it. In fact, it had been sitting in storage for about 5 years with water in the boiler. How can I really thoroughly clean it? [more inside]
posted by advil at 12:02 PM PST - 13 comments

A makers mark as it is made?

Art History-Filter: Looking for art or artifacts depicting the application of guild marks, makers marks, silversmiths stamps, etc. [more inside]
posted by applemeat at 11:43 AM PST - 2 comments

m4ridiculously nervous, socially awkward f

Should I respond to a Craigslist missed connections ad that is about me? If so, how? [more inside]
posted by fiasco at 11:32 AM PST - 29 comments

Walking on pavement

Walk a lot on pavement (city walking), cushioned shoes or something more minimalist? Better yet, on a very tight budget. [more inside]
posted by mbird at 11:29 AM PST - 13 comments

Espresso machine pump got noisy

Espresso machine pump has become noisy...aargh. [more inside]
posted by mbarryf at 11:09 AM PST - 2 comments

ch-ch-ch-changes (download them)

What single software application has been a life-changer for you? [more inside]
posted by craniac at 11:06 AM PST - 60 comments

Auction script recommendations

Recommendations for auction scripts/sites? [more inside]
posted by transient at 10:46 AM PST - 1 comment

Memory lost. If found, return for reward.

I had surgery involving general anesthesia a week ago (relating to this post, for your reference) and I am now missing seemingly random chunks of my memory. [more inside]
posted by Emperor Yamamoto's Eggs at 10:24 AM PST - 17 comments

Out of line?

I refused to let my friend drive herself home last night after she had been drinking. Did I overstep? [more inside]
posted by camneely at 10:03 AM PST - 76 comments

is it true the credit union doesn't have to issue me another debit card?

is it true the credit union doesn't have to issue me another debit card? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:26 AM PST - 11 comments

How to make a lightweight stone-looking wall plaque?

I'd like to spend a few months reproducing Assyrian wall plaques for decorating the house. What material/technique could I use to make them look like lime or sandstone without weighing 800kgs? [more inside]
posted by Spanner Nic at 9:21 AM PST - 9 comments

High holidays in Montreal?

JewishMontrealFilter: Help a liberal but Jewish adopted Montrealer find a minyan, specifically for the high holidays but hopefully for after as well. [more inside]
posted by cinoyter at 9:15 AM PST - 3 comments

Do I need a new couch? If so, advice for buying?

Do I need a new couch? If so, advice for buying? [more inside]
posted by JoannaC at 8:41 AM PST - 8 comments

My accounts have been hacked

My Gmail and Facebook accounts have been hacked. I am aware of this thread. So, what I need to find is software that locates malware on macs, or any other suggestions on how to fix this mess. Please help!
posted by helios410 at 8:24 AM PST - 11 comments

UK male needs a new work wardrobe

UK male needs a new work wardrobe. I think I want suits that I'll wear mostly without a tie. So maybe two suits (two pairs of trousers for each), and 8 shirts? I would like them to fit well and be good quality, but I have no clue beyond that or confidence in measuring and choosing. Where can I go (London or just north of), that will measure, advise and sell to me? [more inside]
posted by JonB at 7:58 AM PST - 9 comments

Car-less in Columbus

Columbus, OH question! We're getting dropped off in Columbus today for a wedding, so we'll be wandering around without a car. Can we safely walk from Short North to East Town Street Historic District? If not, what are some fun things to do in the Historic District for a couple hours? [more inside]
posted by Viola at 7:15 AM PST - 6 comments

Last minute gifts for a squirrel lover in Philadelphia?

Last minute gifts for a squirrel lover in Philadelphia? Pretty much anything squirrel-inspired and under $25 will do. Toys, stuffed animals, kitschy figurines (including ashtrays, paperweights, nutcrackers, etc.) are all great. [more inside]
posted by null14 at 7:08 AM PST - 13 comments

We'll Get It Before WE'RE Dead, Right?

YANML filter: my grandfather's estate should be settled; have we all been waiting too long for his funds to be paid out, or is this normal? [more inside]
posted by EmpressCallipygos at 6:50 AM PST - 14 comments

Help me help this poor little kitty.

What could be wrong with this kitty's eyes? [more inside]
posted by cottonswab at 6:10 AM PST - 14 comments

What was the best short story you read in the last 10 years?

What is the single best short story you've read in the last ten years? Preferrably published in the last ten years, bonus points if the writer is doing something innovative or exciting. [more inside]
posted by surenoproblem at 5:52 AM PST - 58 comments

4 people, $150. What can we do in Sydney?

Me and 3 friends just won $150 at a trivia night. What fun could 4 people have together with $150 in Sydney?
posted by MT at 5:34 AM PST - 5 comments

How to survive retail hell?

I'm working a 17 hour shift today. What can I do to make this suck less? [more inside]
posted by youcancallmeal at 5:31 AM PST - 12 comments

is it easier to bulk up or slim down?

Is it easier to loose weight in fat or gain weight in muscle? [more inside]
posted by davidjohnfox at 5:14 AM PST - 16 comments

Red dan dan noodles

How to make Dan dan noodles ? [more inside]
posted by cl3m at 4:57 AM PST - 8 comments

Offsite Storage for Amateurs

For a home user, what is the best storage medium for backup files to be left at an offsite location? Portable Harddrive, USB drive, SD Card, burnt DVDs? [more inside]
posted by WhackyparseThis at 2:59 AM PST - 24 comments

The Assistant's Magician

Are there any magic acts where the magician and assistant switch roles? [more inside]
posted by unmake at 2:01 AM PST - 7 comments

Another Depressed College Student

I am a 21-year-old college student who is battling depression and social anxiety despite previous achievements. [more inside]
posted by nikayla_luv at 1:55 AM PST - 11 comments

I do like to be beside the seaside - but ideally in a vintage swimsuit

Can you help me in my search for a Victorian-style men's striped bathing suit in a Victorian style? [more inside]
posted by skylar at 12:12 AM PST - 6 comments

Mattress Musings?

We need a new mattress, as our old one is ancient and reduced to badly sagging springs and dust-mites. This is such a complicated and involved topic, and it's so under-served by reputable sites online, I'm having trouble figuring out the smart play. I am enormous, she is petite. I toss and turn vigorously, she sleeps like a log. I think anything above freezing is too hot, and she thinks anything below 85 is too cold. We really like the company of sleeping in the same bed. Help? [more inside]
posted by Slap*Happy at 12:08 AM PST - 19 comments

August 27

Where to?

I'm 26 and have a gap year before starting grad school. Where should I move to? (Chicago / Seattle / Portland / SF / other) [more inside]
posted by amillionbillion at 11:00 PM PST - 17 comments

No, I will not tell the story.

I clogged the toilet with a 6" piece of carrot. (Yes, that was dumb.) Anything I should try before calling the plumber? [more inside]
posted by d. z. wang at 10:31 PM PST - 20 comments

I fail at crisatunity. Wall of text follows.

There can be only one (full-time employee in this company). Help me get through this - and/or possibly get out? [more inside]
posted by deludingmyself at 10:15 PM PST - 6 comments

I feel lost and confused in life

How do I get it together? [more inside]
posted by aerosun at 9:58 PM PST - 11 comments

Which languages have critical reasoning as a characteristic?

What are some languages, or who are some writers, that are epistemologically self-aware? [more inside]
posted by ollyollyoxenfree at 9:48 PM PST - 11 comments

What should I do about this prof?

ProfessorFilter: I screwed something up with a professor from college (a few years ago) and I want to make it right. Lots of details and beanplating. [more inside]
posted by alternateuniverse at 9:08 PM PST - 18 comments

I don't even know what language this is in.

Why did my favorite forum just transform into what appears to be some sort of foreign-language YouTube? [more inside]
posted by Anyamatopoeia at 8:18 PM PST - 4 comments

My past is haunting the Internet, help!

A juicy, confessional article I wrote years ago, before the Internet, has been referenced, quoted, and even reprinted online without my permission. Will this hurt me with potential employers? A blizzard of special snowflakes after the cut. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:08 PM PST - 13 comments

What can I do when I *DON'T* have canker sores to lower the odds of getting one?

A reverse canker sore question: People usually want to know how to get rid of them. I'd love to know that too, but what I really want to know is: what can I do when I *DON'T* have canker sores to lower the odds of getting one? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:07 PM PST - 24 comments

iPhone 1G and 4G in Europe

Headed to London, Rome and Paris and would like to use our iPhone (1G) and iPhone 4 there. Help me figure out the pre-paid SIM side of things. [more inside]
posted by mge at 7:55 PM PST - 7 comments

Location: Prague. Schedule of events: chillin'.

Location: Prague. Schedule of events: chillin'. Looking for food experiences, quality hanging out and people watching. Got any suggestions for a few mellow but interesting days? Unusual places to check out? Flea markets? Vintage shopping? Music?
posted by chuke at 7:48 PM PST - 5 comments

I know the Castillians lisp, but that's about it.

How different are Mexican, Cuban and Puerto Rican Spanish? [more inside]
posted by Diablevert at 7:37 PM PST - 15 comments

Is Mucinex-D making me sicker?

Is it possible for Mucinex D to make sinus problems worse? [more inside]
posted by pyjammy at 7:26 PM PST - 12 comments

What are some good Greasemonkey scripts?

What are some good Greasemonkey scripts? [more inside]
posted by GlassHeart at 7:17 PM PST - 12 comments

Piggyback...

Word origin = piggyback? [more inside]
posted by No Shmoobles at 7:02 PM PST - 3 comments

How to make an epub from multiple PDFs?

I want to create an epub file from several existing PDFs. What software can I use for this? [more inside]
posted by zardoz at 6:53 PM PST - 6 comments

Must...Have...Internet...

Pre-Paid Wireless Internet options (3G, 4G, ??) in Reno, NV [more inside]
posted by defcom1 at 6:46 PM PST - 3 comments

Help me figure out what 80's movie this is

Help me figure out what movie this is: I'm pretty sure it's from the 80's and there's a scene where a bunch of young adults are sitting around a cabin drinking and singing "I Want to Hold Your Hand" when they're attacked by a lion. Thats all I've got!
posted by Thrillhouse at 6:16 PM PST - 6 comments

Firefox restoring the wrong tabs

I have firefox (3.6.8) running with 20-30 tabs open, and sometimes when I close it, I fail to realize there is one small pop-up window running as well. The result is whenever I restart firefox, only the pop-up window is restored, and not the window with 30 tabs. Searching through my history works ok to retrieve some tabs, but some tabs were opened weeks ago, and I don't remember all of the tabs I had open. Is there any way to restore all of those missing tabs?
posted by SouthCNorthNY at 4:55 PM PST - 8 comments

Freelance me please!

freelance project management/product management in NYC area? [more inside]
posted by sweetkid at 4:49 PM PST - 1 comment

What's this kind of video called?

Videos like the new Cee Lo video, where the text appears on the screen as the words are spoken - what's that style called? [more inside]
posted by Lucinda at 4:44 PM PST - 19 comments

Latitude vs. pongitude

How does a design worker suss out how much creative latitude they've got while working? [more inside]
posted by zadcat at 4:39 PM PST - 8 comments

Take 4th Street to Electric Avenue to Funkytown

Street Names In Songs, where can I find a list? I'm looking for street names or places in Western pop music, ideally from the 50s-70s. I'm looking more for fictional or slang names rather than real place names, and street-square-neighborhood names over city names.
posted by The Whelk at 4:21 PM PST - 22 comments

Why does my Tumblr-based website not load properly with Internet Explorer?

Why does my Tumblr-based website not load properly with Internet Explorer? [more inside]
posted by FuckingAwesome at 4:08 PM PST - 1 comment

He minds the gap

What's the best procedure for fixing gap teeth? And can anyone recommend a good, affordable place in Toronto to get this done? [more inside]
posted by pseudostrabismus at 4:05 PM PST - 12 comments

I thought getting clear had something to do with Xenu

I'm a virgin and my girlfriend has HPV. Need some advice about what I should do and what is or is not safe. (Probably NSFW) [more inside]
posted by sickle cell moon at 4:04 PM PST - 20 comments

Non-technical intro to ecology?

Help me find a good, non-textbook introduction to the basics of ecology - preferably something that costs less than $30 and was published in the last 15 years.
posted by palindromic at 3:59 PM PST - 4 comments

A Friend with Parkinson's

A man I have known for many years and respect and like greatly just let me know in a funny, intelligent and informative email that he has Parkinson's Disease. [more inside]
posted by bearwife at 3:52 PM PST - 6 comments

Two days in Larnaca

What to do in or around Larnaca, Cyprus? [more inside]
posted by iati at 3:43 PM PST - 8 comments

Do these jeans make my ass look thin?

Was everyone super-thin and super-tall back then, or is it just me? [more inside]
posted by davejay at 3:18 PM PST - 20 comments

social etiquette filter: how do you handle someone butting in line, in front of you?

social etiquette filter: how do you handle someone butting in line, in front of you? [more inside]
posted by thermonuclear.jive.turkey at 3:07 PM PST - 39 comments

Not fluffy white clouds

Help my friend identify this white cloudy thing photographed in a forest in British Columbia! [more inside]
posted by carbide at 2:54 PM PST - 7 comments

Help me look less lame ordering in french restaurants.

Explain to me the mysteries of ordering at french restaurants (more inside...) [more inside]
posted by finitejest at 2:43 PM PST - 11 comments

Out of fast, good and cheap, I only need the last two.

I want a men's cardigan like this one here. But I'd like to pay well south of the listed $168. More parameters follow. [more inside]
posted by spaltavian at 2:33 PM PST - 13 comments

Who solves a murder in a national park?

If a murder occurs in one of the National Parks who investigates it: The National Park Service rangers, the Bureau of Interior Office of Law Enforcement, Security & Emergency Management, the F.B.I.?
posted by tzuzie at 2:26 PM PST - 12 comments

Best environment-friendly house ever... maybe

Someone had a very well-planned, environment-friendly house - built 30 or 40 years ago. Where's the video? [more inside]
posted by curagea at 2:25 PM PST - 7 comments

Where to buy and sell used clothing in Manhattan or Brooklyn?

Where to buy and sell used clothing in Manhattan or Brooklyn? [more inside]
posted by deern the headlice at 2:18 PM PST - 6 comments

How do you catch my eye in your language?

Calling non-English speakers: what are the equivalent phrases in other languages for "catching someone's eye" or "making eye contact"? [more inside]
posted by snarfois at 2:05 PM PST - 13 comments

How to text in Japanese?

Foreign-language texting on non-iPhones? [more inside]
posted by reductiondesign at 1:53 PM PST - 2 comments

Two weeks in Paris. Please tell me your off the beaten path favorite places

Two weeks in Paris. Please tell me your favorite off the beaten path places
posted by citybuddha at 1:50 PM PST - 24 comments

How to make friendly with the IRS?

IRS woes! I've gotten myself into a little bit of a pickle, and I'm not sure how large it is. I made all of my state tax payments for 2009, but only half of my federal. I haven't gotten in contact with the IRS about paying the remainder. Basically I've been scared as hell, and would like some advice on how to proceed. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 1:49 PM PST - 13 comments

Help me help her

Does anyone here know about getting health coverage in Texas? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 1:49 PM PST - 3 comments

Contemporary Australian Cinema

What are some really great contemporary Australian films that have been criminally overlooked? [more inside]
posted by fryman at 1:35 PM PST - 44 comments

Help identifying a horror novel

This is for a friend who is looking for a horror book: Does anyone remember a horror novel from the late 70's or early 80's about a man who is excavating a tunnel into a secret chamber underneath his home? At the end of the book he enters the chamber and it contains a vengeful undead Native American creature. The title was something like The Chamber or The Tomb or The Ruins. Thanks for your help.
posted by interrobang at 1:31 PM PST - 3 comments

What is a good biography about Marie Curie?

What is a good biography about Marie Curie? [more inside]
posted by burnfirewalls at 1:27 PM PST - 5 comments

I like the people, but I hate their work

Is it worth it to report coworkers that are making a mess out of things? [more inside]
posted by Eicats at 1:02 PM PST - 16 comments

I want to play MarioKart for N64 or Gamecube tonight in NYC - what can I do?

My college roommate is visiting me in NYC this weekend, and I want to play some Kart like the good 'ole days. Where in NYC (preferably Manhattan) can I go to rent a copy of MarioKart for N64 or Gamecube, along with three controllers and the base system?
posted by ab5000 at 12:47 PM PST - 5 comments

For my consideration...

Inspired by this post, I'm looking for some recommendations on video artists to check out or resources that compile the work of video artists. [more inside]
posted by WeekendJen at 12:44 PM PST - 5 comments

Should I get a crappy TV or Crappy laptop?

Should I get a crappy TV or a crappy laptop? I have enough money to get one or the other, and I don't want both. Convoluted reasoning inside. I don't want to spend a bunch of money then think, "Ah crap, I never thought of X before I bought this!" [more inside]
posted by ShadePlant at 12:31 PM PST - 21 comments

NYC karaoke suggestions for a birthday

Looking for a place to go out for karaoke next month for my birthday. I've looked through the previous karaoke + nyc tags, but still trying to narrow it down. Suggestions in Manhattan, Brooklyn, or Queens, please! [more inside]
posted by cmgonzalez at 12:27 PM PST - 3 comments

How can I change my boss's time-wasting ways?

How can I help my procrastinating, disorganized boss improve his workflow? [more inside]
posted by blazingunicorn at 12:25 PM PST - 3 comments

Flag Football Tips?

What's the most effective, easy way to be a decent Flag Football team without minimal practice time? Flag Football season coming up. [more inside]
posted by sandmanwv at 12:21 PM PST - 4 comments

I want to learn more about jazz!

I'm looking for some good books about jazz. [more inside]
posted by The Card Cheat at 12:02 PM PST - 23 comments

How to resign gracefully when you're going off to work for the opposition.

What is the most graceful way to resign, given that I'll be working for a direct competitor? [more inside]
posted by shiu mai baby at 11:53 AM PST - 24 comments

Failing in mom duties, I need this book!

Help me find this book for my son! [more inside]
posted by katers890 at 11:27 AM PST - 10 comments

Temporary housing in DC

I have a friend who arrives in DC next weekend for a 9-month fellowship. Problem is, she just learned her housing isn't available until late September. Can you recommend any budget-friendly week-to-week or month-to-month housing arrangements in the DC metro area? [more inside]
posted by grrarrgh00 at 11:20 AM PST - 10 comments

Proust and the hypnotoad

Has there been any research done on whether reading Proust changes your cognitive processes? [more inside]
posted by Omon Ra at 11:11 AM PST - 15 comments

Automatic Forced Exhalation/Bronchial spasm?

I've noticed the past couple days a sort of automatic forced exhalation. I don't know how to describe it. It's kind of like a cough, but not really. There's not throat clearing or anything of that nature. [more inside]
posted by symbioid at 11:03 AM PST - 10 comments

Baby Gap has skinny jeans. For babies. Why.

My close friend is about to give birth to a baby girl. I'd love to do things for her (babysit, cook dinners, help with groceries) but since she lives across the country, a gift will have to suffice. She's already had a baby shower where she received swings, slings, pumps, bottles, blankets, tons and tons of pink baby clothing, etc, so I'd rather not get her any more of that stuff. Additionally, I'm her least traditional friend (read: happily unmarried, childless, liberal New Yorker) and I think she's looking forward to getting some sort of "alternative," gender neutral, really different baby gift from me. I'd like to deliver, but I have no ideas. I'd love some website/store/product recommendations. Where do new moms who hate Baby Gap and gender specific clothes and frilly baby things shop? Thank you!
posted by blackcatcuriouser at 10:49 AM PST - 33 comments

How to housesit in Toronto/LA/Vancouver?

How can I help a friend who is Canadian writer (and is unfamiliar with AskMe) find housesitting opportunities in house-sitting after October 1st in Toronto/L.A./Vancouver/Bhutan? He has a dog. [more inside]
posted by KokuRyu at 10:39 AM PST - 1 comment

To fling or not to fling?

How do I embrace the idea of a fling? Should I? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 10:32 AM PST - 34 comments

A friend is looking for a fat-friendly general practitioner in Austin, TX.

A friend is looking for a fat-friendly general practitioner in Austin, TX. (Someone who subscribes to the idea of health at every size would be ideal — though really it doesn't matter how they label themself, as long as they're generally sensitive about body-image/weight/food issues. We've seen this fat friendly health professionals list, but the one GP listed in Austin is apparently no longer practicing here.) Suggestions? [more inside]
posted by nebulawindphone at 9:59 AM PST - 11 comments

Where I can find pics/scans of a Lillian Vernon "personal massager" advertisement?

Where I can find pics/scans of a Lillian Vernon "personal massager" advertisement? [more inside]
posted by MrToad at 9:54 AM PST - 8 comments

I paid too much for my plane tickets

I bought two plane tickets for mid September this past Tuesday from Delta. Since then, the price has gone down 130 bucks. Is there anything I can do to get my money or the difference back? [more inside]
posted by icollectpurses at 9:46 AM PST - 12 comments

Twitter Archive

I want to find tweets going back over a month with a certain #tag (from different twitters), but "older tweets are not currently available" and it's only showing a couple of days worth at most. [more inside]
posted by lemonfridge at 9:42 AM PST - 3 comments

Thinking about imagery

I enjoy Ken Rockwell's photography website. Can you recommend similar ones? [more inside]
posted by meadowlark lime at 9:40 AM PST - 8 comments

The Wires

What can I do, aside from the obvious, with fifteen gray, six-foot PC power cables? [more inside]
posted by valkyryn at 9:35 AM PST - 6 comments

Tomato/Potato all in one plant.

Can a potato tomato plant exist without being 2 plants grafted together? [more inside]
posted by boby at 9:17 AM PST - 12 comments

Help me stay sane and employed during a difficult work situation

How can I stay sane and employed during a difficult work situation? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:08 AM PST - 18 comments

To ReFi or not to ReFi?

Is it smart to refinance my house now? Very Special Snowflake details on the other side. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:07 AM PST - 6 comments

Don't make me deal with them again!

I know you're not my lawyer, but how does unemployment insurance work? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:07 AM PST - 7 comments

iPad?

Someone I know is getting separated. Should they get an iPad? [more inside]
posted by schmichael at 9:05 AM PST - 16 comments

You Help Me Find UFC

I'm going to be in Ellenville, NY tomorrow night, and I'd like to find a nearby bar that's showing UFC 118. The UFC website unsurprisingly has nothing closer than suburban NYC, and I can't figure out any way to craft a search that would get me this information. I can search for local bars and call them... but thought I'd ask here first. Anyone know of a bar near Ellenville showing the fights?
posted by slide at 8:54 AM PST - 2 comments

Moviefilter: I am Love

Moviefilter: I Am Love: I saw it for the second time yesterday, and the last several minutes are just as confusing to me now. [more inside]
posted by uans at 8:19 AM PST - 12 comments

Milosz's "Miguel Manara" in English?

Where can I get a copy of Milosz's "Miguel Manara" in English (UK) for a decent price? [more inside]
posted by KMH at 8:13 AM PST - 2 comments

Color/Gradient Generator from hex codes

Looking for a color/gradient generator where you put in your hex code (#6699CC) and it generates shades of that color from white, to the color, to black. It's a very plain page with just the shades from light to dark and their hex codes.
posted by jesirose at 8:04 AM PST - 12 comments

No more pinching or zooming for me.

The iPhone Stylesheet for MetaFilter pb created is oh so nice. What are some other websites that have awesome dedicated iPhone versions?
posted by 2bucksplus at 7:43 AM PST - 11 comments

Help me find an Bill Buckley ad for National Review where he is on a sailboat

I'm looking for a TV advertisement William F. Buckley, Jr. did in the late 80s or early 90s for his magazine, National Review, while sailing his boat. [more inside]
posted by jeffmshaw at 7:38 AM PST - 4 comments

Driving from St. Augustine, FL to Atlanta

Driving from St. Augustine to Atlanta, what's the best route to take? [more inside]
posted by shinynewnick at 7:05 AM PST - 11 comments

Just The Same (But Brand New)

Help me find the camera used to shoot the most amazing footage I've ever seen. [more inside]
posted by howiamdifferent at 6:09 AM PST - 7 comments

40 delicious things??????

Calling ALL FOODIES, FOODISTS, GOURMETS and GOURMANDS: I am looking to have a special 40th birthday party with the theme "40 Delicious Things". What do I serve??? [more inside]
posted by marlys27 at 5:58 AM PST - 27 comments

What were the Yahoos missing out on?

In Gulliver's Travels, what are the "unnatural appetites in both sexes, so common among us" that the Yahoos lack? [more inside]
posted by creasy boy at 5:47 AM PST - 22 comments

Where can I find two-column browser software?

Are there any web browsers that will display a single web page in a two-column layout, side by side? [more inside]
posted by bakerybob at 5:45 AM PST - 2 comments

Mortgage Fun

The pitfalls of cosigning on someone else's mortgage [more inside]
posted by Raze2k at 5:31 AM PST - 64 comments

What is going on with this sleep button?

Trying to repair a laptop, strangest behavior ever. Many more details after the fold. [more inside]
posted by TomMelee at 5:28 AM PST - 4 comments

Visiting Toronto next weekend (labor day weekend), and looking for some things to do.

Visiting Toronto next weekend (labor day weekend), and looking for some things to do. [more inside]
posted by cavs33 at 5:14 AM PST - 22 comments

Safe, sane, long term low carb diet?

Practical, science-based, safe, sane "low carb" book that doesn't pull any punches? (If simply "Atkins," which one?) I'm looking for a book that is gung-ho, but still spells out what can go wrong and why: I'm three days in to a self-created low carb diet. All sorts of good stuff has happened, but all sorts of disconcerting stuff has happened, too. [more inside]
posted by zeek321 at 4:37 AM PST - 21 comments

Ice Cream + Friends + ??? = Awesome

Help us host the best ice cream social ever. [more inside]
posted by featherboa at 3:50 AM PST - 21 comments

DIYtherPad

I'd like to set up my own installation of EtherPad for a course I'm teaching, but... [more inside]
posted by bokane at 3:47 AM PST - 7 comments

Mangers are not an option.

Is CouchSurfing during the holiday season asking for trouble? [more inside]
posted by apophenia at 3:29 AM PST - 9 comments

I don't know how to fix your relationship. Please don't ask.

How do I graciously ask people not to come to me for relationship advice? [more inside]
posted by po at 3:18 AM PST - 25 comments

Metformin woes (diarrhea-free!)

I'd like to hear about your experience taking metformin for PCOS, especially if it didn't work quite as you expected... [more inside]
posted by low_horrible_immoral at 3:02 AM PST - 5 comments

SF for 3 months - doable?

San Francisco for 3 months to be creative and check out awesomeness. Low budget, Bangladesh passport. Possible? [more inside]
posted by divabat at 2:13 AM PST - 8 comments

Authorhouse - worth a try?

Anyone had experience of publishing a book with Authorhouse? [more inside]
posted by Blackwatch at 1:42 AM PST - 2 comments

"I'm just here for the cupcakes, dude. Chill!"

A friend of mine, in a bout of frustration, recently posted this challenge: " Name one Hollywood horror movie which does NOT contain the line, "WHAT DO YOU WANT (FROM ME)??!!!", usually screamed by the protagonist at the antagonist." There must be several! I thought it would be funny to present him with a list, and I hope you can help me. (Would be funnier if the movies were not-very-arthousey.) Thanks!
posted by Omnomnom at 1:26 AM PST - 18 comments

Re-installing OSX and copying files over from a backup without employing Migration Assistant

Question about re-installing OSX and copying files over from a backup—but without using Migration Assistant. [more inside]
posted by blueberry at 1:12 AM PST - 4 comments

August 26

Help make my office a Van Gogh shrine

I have access to a large poster printer and want to fill my office with beautiful prints of Van Gogh's paintings. Please lend me your aesthetic guidance on how to make this awesome, not tacky or crowded. [more inside]
posted by Jacqueline at 11:38 PM PST - 12 comments

Make 'em bleed. My ears that is.

I am looking for songs that I can play LOUD and also have an epic flavor. I'm not a fan of metal -- I am a fan of show-tunes. Looking for songs that compel one to turn the volume UP. Examples after the jump. [more inside]
posted by duckus at 10:20 PM PST - 64 comments

Better Safe than Sorry?

How can we protect our Macintosh network from an immature, if not unstable, ISP tech? [more inside]
posted by Mertonian at 10:19 PM PST - 5 comments

Friend having difficulty finding work

My friend has been having some difficulty finding an art teacher job, and wants to branch out to other areas. Any suggestions? [more inside]
posted by omredux at 9:18 PM PST - 14 comments

Help me decide whether to get cork floors in a rental property

So what's the deal with cork floors? [more inside]
posted by AmitinLA at 9:01 PM PST - 5 comments

"Close your eyes. Make a wish. Count to three."

Brainfilter: Why is my ability to visualize so unbounded when I am drifting off to sleep (but not yet dreaming)? Is this a state I can reproduce in waking life? [more inside]
posted by overeducated_alligator at 8:36 PM PST - 8 comments

Looking for the live recording of the song The Freshmen.

The first time I heard the song The Freshmen by the Verve Pipe, it was on the radio -- a live version in which the audience sang along. Anyone know where I can find that? All I can locate are studio recordings.
posted by governale at 8:21 PM PST - 11 comments

What should these sliding doors be made of?

I need to replace glass sliding doors in a cabinet, and would like to do it with something other than glass, because glass is heavy and doesn't want to slide. Can you give me ideas for materials that are lightweight, opaque or semi-opaque, and slidey? [more inside]
posted by HotToddy at 8:08 PM PST - 8 comments

After High School

How best to advise a 12th grade student on their college plans. [more inside]
posted by bach at 7:59 PM PST - 5 comments

It's just like riding a bike, which is like... it's hard to explain, son!

How do I teach my 5-year old how to ride a bike? [more inside]
posted by escabeche at 7:30 PM PST - 38 comments

What applications are best for mac screencasts?

What application(s) should I use to make a quality screencast on a mac? [more inside]
posted by mtphoto at 7:23 PM PST - 14 comments

Down the memory hole...

Remember Russ Kick? Remember the Memory Hole? [more inside]
posted by whimsicalnymph at 7:18 PM PST - 5 comments

How can I best use Google Voice?

I can't get my head around Google Voice. Just what can it do for me? [more inside]
posted by lhauser at 7:10 PM PST - 16 comments

Help me indentify this crap behind my fridge and oven.

I pulled out my fridge in my apartment and found all this stuff behind it. It's also behind my oven. What is it? [more inside]
posted by tenaciousd at 6:48 PM PST - 14 comments

Please explain these layers that can be seen in a setting sun

Atmospheric science filter: This picture of the sun was taken while it was setting over the NE Pacific Ocean. Is there a scientific explanation of why there are distinct, horizontal darkening layers of color on the orb from top to bottom?
posted by surfgator at 6:46 PM PST - 9 comments

Learning curve?

Can someone help me with a maths problem please, how to find y for a given x on a curve? [more inside]
posted by zingzangzung at 6:45 PM PST - 14 comments

Oh, so I'M the creepy one. Thanks, FB.

Yet another FaceBook friends question: Is FaceBook now spoofing friend requests? A few times now, I feel like I've been "tricked" into friending someone I only casually know. [more inside]
posted by ctmf at 6:44 PM PST - 34 comments

How good can a mobile phone speaker be?

How much could the speakers built into iPhones be auditorily improved if price were no object? [more inside]
posted by Joe Beese at 6:30 PM PST - 4 comments

Upper body cardio?

Cardio exercise options for someone who can't strain their legs more than 10 to 15 mins, and doesn't have access to gym equipment? [more inside]
posted by bardophile at 6:25 PM PST - 16 comments

Avoiding the fail whale.

How do I take great pictures on a whale watch? [more inside]
posted by dayintoday at 6:10 PM PST - 14 comments

My computer is (sort of) dead

Could defragging have killed my video card hardware? [more inside]
posted by codacorolla at 5:50 PM PST - 8 comments

Where can I buy slim, European-style pants in stores or online?

I'm a guy looking for casual, slim pants that aren't jeans. Maybe something you would see in Europe. I need them in all sorts of colors. One of my female friends suggested that her pants might fit me, and upon trying them on they actually fit better than anything else I own. So, any suggestions as to where I can find pants that actually fit without looking in the ladies section? [more inside]
posted by jykmf at 5:49 PM PST - 26 comments

Starter Golf Clubs - New or Used?

I'm looking in to buying an inexpensive starter golf club set (for myself). Should I buy new or used clubs? [more inside]
posted by jabberjaw at 5:23 PM PST - 7 comments

You're Outta Here

Coping strategies for 16 yr. old daughter just cut from soccer squad. [more inside]
posted by Xurando at 5:20 PM PST - 48 comments

What should I expect from Vyvanse?

What should I expect from Vyvanse? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:09 PM PST - 14 comments

How can I muffle loud pipes in a wall, preferably cheaply?

How can I soundproof or muffle loud pipes in a wall, preferably cheaply? [more inside]
posted by susanvance at 4:44 PM PST - 5 comments

Hivemind help me find a story about Katrina...

I'm trying to find a specific story about the aftermath of the Katrina storm in New Orleans... [more inside]
posted by torquemaniac at 4:44 PM PST - 3 comments

Got a new table, need some coasters

Help me find the most awesome and beautiful drink coasters in the world. [more inside]
posted by thirteenkiller at 4:40 PM PST - 21 comments

My So-Called Life... Trapped!

I have a hard drive that I ripped from a 2000-1 ish year Compaq, and I need to find an enclosure. What kind of hard drive is it, and what's the cheapest enclosure? [more inside]
posted by two lights above the sea at 3:41 PM PST - 12 comments

Being supportive

How can I talk honestly with my sister and still be supportive? [more inside]
posted by tachikoma_robot at 3:19 PM PST - 13 comments

Good time to buy my 1st flat in the UK?

I'm thinking of buying a one bed flat for around 130k in Brighton or Bristol, UK. I have a 50k deposit. I am not committed to any area (or country for that matter) and I have no emotional need to own a house. But if it makes financial sense, I am in a position to do it. But does it make financial sense to buy? Everyone apparently says yes, but I don't understand the maths. If prices stay flat, for instance, would it not make more sense to rent and invest the money elsewhere? I'm really thinking short term, would I be up in, say, 10 years, if everything stays fairly steady. I can't really make the mental leap to factor in the benefit of owning the house in 25 years....
posted by choppyes at 2:51 PM PST - 29 comments

What should I sing at karaoke for someone I have a crush on?

I lost a bet and now I owe the person I'm dating a karaoke song. My usual karaoke songs are useless here! What should I sing to impress and/or delight an awesome girl? [more inside]
posted by girlstyle at 2:46 PM PST - 79 comments

Help with Starred Items in Google Reader

Is there a way to sort all of my starred items in Google Reader by the oldest date first? [more inside]
posted by SuperSquirrel at 2:37 PM PST - 4 comments

Alternatives to "RSS Graffiti?"

Does anyone know of a more dependable alternative to RSS Graffiti? It does all the right things, but also does some squirrelly things it shouldn't... [more inside]
posted by Ignatius J. Reilly at 2:11 PM PST - 4 comments

Meow! Espresso?!

What's the difference between an espresso blend and regular whole bean coffee? [more inside]
posted by Sara C. at 1:40 PM PST - 16 comments

Want to start school and get our life on track, but how?

Want to start school and get our life on track, but how? I've made some mistakes in college by not showing up an entire semester so my GPA is 1.05, even the lower university's here in TN like austin peay won't take me because my grades suck. I live a hour away from the two community colleges in my area. I also have to figure out how I'm going to give my family a place to live, I lost my job in missouri and moved down to TN with my mom. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 1:40 PM PST - 43 comments

Do unique, generic gifts exist?

I need ideas for gifts to bring abroad from the U.S. I'm especially looking for things that simply don't exist or are difficult to find in other countries. [more inside]
posted by mittenedsex at 1:17 PM PST - 22 comments

Sew frustrated

Chicago Filter: I would like to take a hand sewing class - but NOT embroidery. [more inside]
posted by bibliogrrl at 1:17 PM PST - 5 comments

Where can I get a balloon arch in Jamaica Estates, Queens, NYC

QueensNYCFilter: Where could I most-inexpensively get a balloon arch for use at an event in Queens, Jamaica Estates, NYC?
posted by Sticherbeast at 1:15 PM PST - 2 comments

last night i heard the breeze / it was singing through the trees

Yet another "I am looking for some music" AskMefi. Looking for white noise-esque or vocalizations! (if that's the right word for it) [more inside]
posted by royalsong at 1:09 PM PST - 21 comments

The best presentation you ever saw.

I'm looking for examples of great presentations, including visuals (PowerPoint or otherwise). I've been browsing TED.com and keep finding inspiring speeches but not necessarily examples of great supplemental visuals. I'm sure there are examples there and elsewhere. YouTube links or otherwise would be great. [more inside]
posted by pithy comment at 1:03 PM PST - 15 comments

Older updates of iOS

How do I update my iPhone to iOS 3.1.3--not iOS 4.0? [more inside]
posted by jefficator at 1:00 PM PST - 8 comments

Meditation in Brooklyn

Do you attend a meditation center or group in Brooklyn? If so, please tell me about it. [more inside]
posted by game warden to the events rhino at 12:44 PM PST - 2 comments

European Soccer Bettiing

I want to bet on European soccer. Premiership, Champions League, etc..... can I legally do that from the US? I emailed a UK based betting site and they said "no" as it was a "grey area". Don't want to get busted but want to have a little fun.
posted by philad at 12:42 PM PST - 4 comments

Can I create value in real estate?

Can I create value in real estate? [more inside]
posted by symbebekos at 12:39 PM PST - 10 comments

What's the best Russian novel to read while living in Moscow?

What's the best Russian novel to read while living in Moscow? [more inside]
posted by myelin sheath at 12:37 PM PST - 16 comments

How do I feel more secure about the amount of money I make?

How do I feel more secure about the amount of money I make? [more inside]
posted by plungerjoke at 12:23 PM PST - 33 comments

Where can I play Clue online or on iOS?

I'd like to play the board game Clue either through a web browser or an iPad/iPhone app. Ideally I could play against a friend or friends where we sign in/sign up and AI fills in as the other players as needed. If the playing-against-friends part isn't possible, then playing against random people online or AI would be fine. I've seen a Clue game on the App Store, but it's "Clue" in name only, not the actual board game. Maybe there's a Clue ripoff somewhere that follows the same room/weapon/character whodunit format? Any recommendations? Thanks in advance.
posted by jroybal at 12:21 PM PST - 2 comments

Getting things done while you're getting things done

I'm interested in hearing about "short burst" productivity enhancements I could make to my life. (Don't use the "L" word!) [more inside]
posted by backseatpilot at 12:20 PM PST - 14 comments

Now Offering Violin Lessons in NYC, Any Takers?

How much can I charge for violin lessons in NYC? [more inside]
posted by mythicalbyrd at 12:12 PM PST - 8 comments

Once my lover, now my friend. Possible, or just a cruel thing to pretend?

How to manage the transition from fiance to ex to friends? [more inside]
posted by Ceci n'est pas un sockpuppet at 11:59 AM PST - 27 comments

Online day journal?

Looking for a specific type of online blog/diary/journal.. [more inside]
posted by Kattiara17 at 11:51 AM PST - 7 comments

I was looking for a predator; how was I supposed to know that she'd act all... predatory?

How the heck do I catproof a deck? (Second-story, somewhat sketchy DIY deck made out of wood with picket-fence railings. Kitten wants to commit suicide.) [more inside]
posted by kataclysm at 11:51 AM PST - 19 comments

I my motorcycle's junction (fuse) box broken?

I spent 4 hours circuit-testing my motorcycle's starter system. Everything seems normal. I suspect the junction (fuse) box is faulty ... right? [more inside]
posted by fracas at 11:50 AM PST - 8 comments

Which exterminator do I pick for taking care of bed bugs?

Which exterminator do I pick for taking care of bed bugs? [more inside]
posted by ktpetals at 11:47 AM PST - 12 comments

Mac girl in a PC world

Help me decide which Windows desktop my company should buy (mostly for bookkeeping/financial) [more inside]
posted by theseampsgoto11 at 11:26 AM PST - 15 comments

Customizable Wall Calendars

For my theater organization, I'm looking to order customizable wall calendars online. Ideally, they'd be 1) cheap, 2) available in bulk and also available for individual orders (so we can send out a link to those who won't be getting one free but might still want one), and 3) that we can customize with both photos and important dates. What websites do you know that hit all or most of these points?
posted by ocherdraco at 11:16 AM PST - 1 comment

Pittsburgh Prenatal Massage Therapist

Pittsburgh Prenatal Massage: Can you recommend a massage therapist for a pregnant lady? [more inside]
posted by rbs at 11:09 AM PST - 5 comments

I want to fly abroad and don't care where. How to find the cheapest tickets?

I want to take the cheapest possible international flights, and I don't care where I'm going. Where best to find tickets for whatever routes happen to be the least expensive at the moment? [more inside]
posted by colinmarshall at 10:57 AM PST - 12 comments

Choosing an unlocked GSM phone

I'll be spending at least several months in Europe, and I'd like to buy an unlocked Android phone and use prepaid SIM cards in each country I visit. Data access (not just voice) is important. What are the best phones on the market for this purpose? [more inside]
posted by pete_22 at 10:55 AM PST - 7 comments

I remember the poster - but which movie was it?

Help me settle a long-running debate by identifying which horror movie had the following poster: A night scene, outdoors, I think moonlit. Hand drawn. In the centre of the poster a girl is running away from the viewer, down a path between two stone walls. Emerging from the walls on both sides are hands which are grabbing out at her. I last saw it around 1986. Any ideas?
posted by scrm at 10:50 AM PST - 6 comments

weird computers

Are there any really weird computers still being made for the home consumer? [more inside]
posted by Paquda at 10:46 AM PST - 15 comments

Snowboard group trip

Snowboarding trip plan help: Europe, catered, 10-20 people. Anonymous because it's a surprise for a lurker. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 10:35 AM PST - 3 comments

At Home Photography Class for Two?

My boyfriend and I would like to improve our photography skills. I'd like to get a list going of daily/weekly assignments or friendly competitions we can give ourselves to have some fun with this. Any ideas? Does something self-directed like this already exist elsewhere on the internets? [more inside]
posted by logic vs love at 9:55 AM PST - 15 comments

Starting points for sorting out my life please?

My life has been running out of control for almost unimaginably long time. I am 'technically' a university student but I have been so unengaged and worried about my degree course and university the past year that that affiliation or 'student' label does not really apply. So in any other sense I am unemployed. Although I recognize the need for purpose, disciple and structure in day-to-day life, I fail to impose this upon myself. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:45 AM PST - 19 comments

Live NFL Games on the Internet

Instead of paying high fees to watch my favorite NFL football games on Direct TV, is there a decent software package or Internet subscription to follow my favorite football teams live on the internet? I am willing to pay a small fee for this service. Any assistance would be appreciated.
posted by Mckoan1 at 9:43 AM PST - 11 comments

EDD Phone Interview Months Later? What can I expect?

I've been receiving unemployment compensation (in CA) consistently since being laid off last fall. All extensions have been approved and have gone through without a hitch. I was notified of a phone interview scheduled for next week. Why?? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:37 AM PST - 6 comments

What's the modern procedure for finding a job?

How do people find jobs these days, anyway? My beloved husband was fired yesterday from the job he's held for ten years as a full-time employee and for four years prior to that as a contractor (after his first bad review, not that I'm bitter). [more inside]
posted by KathrynT at 9:32 AM PST - 25 comments

I don't know how to break up.

There may be fifty ways to leave your lover, but I can't handle any of them. Deep down I know I need to end my relationship, but I don't know how to do it. [more inside]
posted by secretsquirrel at 9:17 AM PST - 13 comments

I miss Fat Kiss. Help me!

Once upon a time, I used the perfect lip gloss (Too Faced's Fat Kiss in Fat Jelly). Now it's no longer made. Please help me find a replacement -- I'm desperate! [more inside]
posted by hansbrough at 9:09 AM PST - 12 comments

Help me not be an anxious wreck. I can't stand myself.

Decision-making frenzy. Help me not to drive myself and others crazy. Specific situation and long-term problem inside. [more inside]
posted by 3491again at 9:08 AM PST - 18 comments

What are some professional piercing parlors in St Louis?

Possibly NSFW: What are some professional piercing parlors in St. Louis? Bonus if you had male genital piercing(s) done there. [more inside]
posted by Giggilituffin at 8:59 AM PST - 6 comments

What do I need to know to survive at a jazz jam session?

I've played jazz for many years, but never done the jam session thing. What rules of etiquette should I follow? [more inside]
posted by IjonTichy at 8:52 AM PST - 5 comments

Relative reflectivity of glass and perspex

Short and sweet... Does anyone happen to have a ballpark figure for the percentage of light reflected by a 'standard' sheet of glass and a 'standard' sheet of perspex of similar thickness?
posted by twine42 at 8:36 AM PST - 3 comments

Are Power Adapter Plugs Standardized?

Are power adapters standardized? [more inside]
posted by musofire at 8:35 AM PST - 8 comments

Yahoo Mail - Direct link to Inbox

Yahoo Mail - Direct link to Inbox [more inside]
posted by KRS at 8:29 AM PST - 4 comments

Is Great Journalism Every Day Possible?

Blogs or sites devoted to great reporting/essays/journalism? [more inside]
posted by mreleganza at 8:20 AM PST - 8 comments

How adults handle getting dumped?

Are there adult rules for getting dumped? It's never happened to me till now, my late 20s, and I'm pretty inconsolable. (anon because she knows my handle and lurks). [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:13 AM PST - 37 comments

American Setting Up UK Bank Account

I am an American who would like to set up a legitimate bank account in the UK and I have some questions [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:12 AM PST - 6 comments

Help me find IT work in Chicago area.

What steps should I take to find an IT job in the Chicago metro area? Can LinkedIn help? And am I insane for even looking in this economy? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:12 AM PST - 5 comments

Reinstall single font

The very standard Courier font has disappeared from my Mac OSX 10.5.8 system. [more inside]
posted by bwonder2 at 7:35 AM PST - 4 comments

Empathy Outside the Species

Why do species feel empathy and aesthetic attraction (non-sexual) toward members of other species? [more inside]
posted by outlandishmarxist at 7:09 AM PST - 19 comments

Name that tune/video.

Do you know this crudely animated stop-motion music video (or the song it is a video for)...can't remember the song, but part of the refrain is like "shake the house, shake the house" with female vocalist. Two characters standing outside of the house, with a nice tree in the side yard. I think its a love song or some other similar "you're crazy" kind of number but upbeat and fun!
posted by talljamal at 7:00 AM PST - 3 comments

What's a good picture book for soon-to-be big siblings?

What's a good picture book to help a toddler understand pregnancy and/or get ready for a new baby sibling? [more inside]
posted by yankeefog at 6:57 AM PST - 10 comments

Help me find a specific Drew Barrymore clip, from a talkshow.

Help me find a specific Drew Barrymore clip, from a talkshow. [more inside]
posted by Meatbomb at 5:53 AM PST - 3 comments

What to do in Buffalo for 7 hours?

I'm taking the Greyhound to Buffalo Airport from Toronto on Saturday. I get in at around 10:30 AM. My plane doesn't leave until 6:00 PM. I will not have access to a car, but I only have a small messenger and a carry-on (that I'm sure can be stored somewhere at the airport) in terms of luggage. Is there anything within easy public transportation of the Buffalo airport that I could spend the day checking out, or should I prepare lots of reading material?
posted by Phire at 5:45 AM PST - 17 comments

Sleeve that fits over Apple iPad case?

What is the best sleeve for protecting the iPad that fits over the Apple case? [more inside]
posted by hihowareyou at 5:30 AM PST - 5 comments

Kindle not really for me?

I've been giddy with excitement and waiting anxiously for my kindle 3 ever since I ordered it a month ago--and then yesterday I read David Pougue's review and the comments to his article. Now I am sad and depressed. They are saying horrible things like when you buy the eBooks they don't really belong to you and you can't share them and worst of all I won't be able to read the eBooks from my public library on the kindle. Can this be true? Should I just pack up the kindle and send it back? Woe is me.
posted by sandra194 at 5:22 AM PST - 21 comments

How can we stop this guy?

What can be done about a serial kitten-torturer?! Proven case with plenty of evidence. Is there any way to get this sick a-hole behind bars? [more inside]
posted by Silky Slim at 5:10 AM PST - 12 comments

How do rich people select a financial advisor?

How do wealthy people select a financial advisor? Besides word of mouth, which i think is number one no matter what your socioeconomic status is - Do they respond to traditional print and web ads like the rest of us or do they use some other approach? -rich people baffle me.
posted by Paleoindian at 4:19 AM PST - 11 comments

How do I change my sleep cycle?

I need help feeling sleepy earlier in the evening and feeling awake earlier in the morning! [more inside]
posted by Ziggy500 at 3:36 AM PST - 13 comments

Egypt for a Week

TravelFilter: A week in Egypt in November with the folks; organised tour or solo? Cairo + Cruise? Luxor? Any tips or recommendations appreciated. [more inside]
posted by mary8nne at 3:12 AM PST - 9 comments

CLEAR mobile internet/home phone

Does anyone have experience with CLEAR mobile internet/home internet/home phone? I am in Austin, TX, and am thinking about it. [more inside]
posted by noonknight at 3:03 AM PST - 13 comments

August 25

Identification of short story (and author) about an inside joke at a funeral

About two years back, I was traveling and picked up a huge book of short stories in a hostel. They were all by the same author, and for the most part, they were Roald Dahl-esque, intricately plotted, fast moving, usually violent or crimeish short stories with an elaborate twist at the end. However, one of the stories was a lovely departure from the others, and I'd like help identifying it. [more inside]
posted by Ideal Impulse at 11:06 PM PST - 8 comments

"A few good stretches.."

Im looking for a handful of stretches to ease lower back "tightness". [more inside]
posted by Esefa at 10:21 PM PST - 24 comments

I feel like a zombie in the morning

I've started a new, earlier work schedule now that I'm carpooling with my fianceé. I don't have issues waking up, but I do tend to feel "slower" when I'm trying to work at earlier hours in the morning. Any suggestions for how to feel clearer and more focused earlier in the day? [more inside]
posted by Allenthar at 9:17 PM PST - 13 comments

Is/was there a term in Dungeons & Dragons besides "rolling a natural 20" for a hit that kills an opponent?

Is/was there a term in Dungeons & Dragons besides "rolling a natural 20" for a hit that kills an opponent? [more inside]
posted by bitterkitten at 9:06 PM PST - 19 comments

Economical cross-border shipping for a large/bulky item.

I need suggestions about economical cross-border shipping options for a poorly thought out ebay purchase. [more inside]
posted by Kololo at 8:35 PM PST - 17 comments

Pimp my speakeasy!

I found a secret room in my apartment. How do I decorate it? [more inside]
posted by cjemmott at 8:12 PM PST - 70 comments

Research paper ellipses

Does a quote in a research paper (MLA format 2010) keep or drop a comma when an ellipse is used? [more inside]
posted by xopaigexo at 7:51 PM PST - 7 comments

Breaking up with a person who'll refuse to break up

Breaking up with a boyfriend who seems to be getting increasingly removed from reality, and is almost guaranteed not to accept the breakup? I'm preoccupied with thoughts of how this could get worse. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:36 PM PST - 22 comments

Slow lazy Berlin

Help me enjoy lazy Berlin! [more inside]
posted by missmary6 at 6:15 PM PST - 19 comments

Is there a RPG that I can use real life points with?

Is there a RPG / Level up system that allows me to apply my own points to? Like a normal RPG except the game is in real life and the character is on the computer? [more inside]
posted by bindasj at 6:00 PM PST - 8 comments

Tried-and-true free-and-easy online meetings

How do I set up an easy, free way for people to attend our meetings from a distance? Picture about five people sitting around a table with five more attending virtually; attendees' tech savvy will vary greatly. I know that there is a lot of pay software out there, but I'm wondering if anyone's found a reasonably robust system with free or low-cost software. Do you have a tested set-up process and combo of free software that you know works? [more inside]
posted by lillygog at 6:00 PM PST - 10 comments

Help me put this NAS together?

I currently have 6 SATA drives that I'm trying to put together in a nas box. Will this motherboard and this power supply be able to deal with it? Are there cheaper ways of going about this? [more inside]
posted by geoff. at 5:29 PM PST - 12 comments

Do they not make them like they used to?

Is it possible to replace the battery in a cell phone or do I have to buy a whole new phone? [more inside]
posted by Hey Dean Yeager! at 5:28 PM PST - 14 comments

Help me understand finance!

What are the best resources for learning about financial markets, from a business perspective? [more inside]
posted by problemspace at 5:26 PM PST - 12 comments

Snowboarding helmet for those who wear glasses?

I need to buy a snowboarding helmet but I wear glasses. What recommendations do you have for helmets that won't press my glasses into the side of my head?
posted by yfatah at 4:52 PM PST - 12 comments

Why do I feel so woozy at night?

Every once in a while, I go through a few days of persistent wooziness in the evening. Is anyone familiar with these symptoms? [more inside]
posted by Kutsuwamushi at 4:48 PM PST - 13 comments

I want a small but custom home

I wish to build a small, custom home in a rural setting. I've tried to research small, rustic homes but I end up seeing teeny, tiny places. No thanks. [more inside]
posted by private_idaho at 4:40 PM PST - 7 comments

Houseflies of Horror

Is there anyway to trace the source of massive amounts of houseflies infiltrating my kitchen? It is a disgusting mystery. [more inside]
posted by Pennyblack at 3:42 PM PST - 22 comments

Can an iphone make me cool?

How can I control my a/c from my phone? [more inside]
posted by nushustu at 3:41 PM PST - 4 comments

Ubuntu compatible, Audible playing mp3 player.

I'm looking for an mp3 player that allows me to drag and drop music without the need of software that works with Ubuntu and can play back Audible DRM'ed files. Budget of £100.
posted by nam3d at 3:35 PM PST - 4 comments

film degrees

Where can I find statistics for numbers of graduates per type of degree in the US? I want to know the number of film students graduating each year, and whether its been increasing.
posted by dgaicun at 3:32 PM PST - 3 comments

Should I ask this professor for a letter of recommendation?

Is asking a professor I don't know well for a recommendation a mistake? [more inside]
posted by wansac at 3:27 PM PST - 20 comments

Classy but affordable surprise-party venue in Austin?

I'm throwing a surprise birthday party for a friend. Please recommend an Austin restaurant that'd be a good venue for the "Surprise!" moment. Criteria inside. [more inside]
posted by aka burlap at 3:17 PM PST - 5 comments

What do I look for in a good carpet cleaner?

How do I evaluate different carpet cleaning options for my house? Everything seems to be skeevy door-to-door guys hawking chemical treatments and I used to recall steam cleaning being the way it was done when I was a kid (is that kind still around?). The yellow pages and general local review sites offer no help in picking one of a dozen options. Also, about how much is a normal price for a 3-4 bedroom average house, ballpark range? [more inside]
posted by mathowie at 3:04 PM PST - 15 comments

How can I make it easier to get enough sleep at a normal time each night?

How can I develop and maintain a normal, healthy sleep routine? [more inside]
posted by Ryogen at 3:02 PM PST - 19 comments

Best net provider in Portland?

Who is the best high-speed Internet service provider in the Portland, OR and Vancouver, WA areas? [more inside]
posted by rikhei at 2:57 PM PST - 13 comments

Mysteriously missing MSI model

I'd like to know some things about my new laptop but it isn't listed on its manufacturer's website. It's an MSI brand, model S6000-017US, purchased from Office Depot last Tuesday. [more inside]
posted by pyrom at 2:55 PM PST - 4 comments

Graduate school grants for international students?

Anyone know of any graduate-level (PhD candidate) grants available to a Chinese girl studying Biology in the US? [more inside]
posted by maize at 2:55 PM PST - 3 comments

Help me deal with hysterical reactions in therapy

Help me deal with hysterical reactions in therapy [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:52 PM PST - 13 comments

La nom nom nom.

Where can we make out with Spanish boys and what foodie things can I not miss in Spain? [more inside]
posted by IWoudDie4U at 2:49 PM PST - 16 comments

Using a French Oven without an Oven?

Cooking Filter: Can I cook a roast beef/roast a chicken in my French Oven (Staub La Cocotte) without an actual oven (i.e. on the stovetop)? [more inside]
posted by 1000monkeys at 2:26 PM PST - 14 comments

Can my Gentoo box act as a secure proxy and how?

How can I go about setting up a Gentoo server as a secure proxy? [more inside]
posted by Biru at 2:26 PM PST - 9 comments

Sleeping is giving in

I can fall asleep, but it's not restful. [more inside]
posted by quadrilaterals at 2:15 PM PST - 20 comments

Would rather not have to deal with this

Should I divulge to my boss my mentor/coworker’s complete lack of work ethic? (academic lab situation) [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:04 PM PST - 20 comments

Get my computer to not stop responding?

My 3 year-old hp laptop that runs 32bit windows 7 has lately chosen to stop responding to anything at random moments (including ctrl-alt-del) forcing me to shut down and lose everything I'm working on. How can I isolate the problem and hopefully fix it? [more inside]
posted by kylej at 1:56 PM PST - 8 comments

Baggage fees on airlines to London

Which airline flying to Heathrow London has the best extra baggage and heavy baggage prices? [more inside]
posted by KimikoPi at 1:07 PM PST - 3 comments

I have the book smarts down... now onto the money.

How should I best manage my graduate school stipend? [more inside]
posted by oinopaponton at 1:02 PM PST - 15 comments

Roommate interviews with surprisingly few success-- Did I miss something?

Little success in roommate search-- did I miss something? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 1:01 PM PST - 12 comments

Fockink OV-Chipkaarts, hoe werken ze?

How can I best use the OV-Chipkaart on my upcoming trip through the Netherlands? [more inside]
posted by Gortuk at 12:56 PM PST - 6 comments

Why are some people socialist

Is there a reason why some people are socialist? [more inside]
posted by marienbad at 12:55 PM PST - 41 comments

How can I burn these .Mod files?

I have some.MOD video files (each one about 2 hrs long) that need to be burned on to a disc, stat. Windows Media players burner says it will not fit, even though the file is only 3.7 gigs and the disc can hold 4.7 gigs. When I put a DVD-R in the drive and try to drag the .MOD files into the file, it won't allow it. How can I get these videos on a DVD-R ASAP? [more inside]
posted by windbox at 12:45 PM PST - 4 comments

CPU Speed Adjustment?

How do I tell if the CPUs on a Windows Server 2003 are having their clock rates changed by a power-saver scheme? [more inside]
posted by Kahomono at 12:45 PM PST - 4 comments

Please help me find a place to live in Atlanta.

Is there a website to compare apartment complexes in Atlanta? [more inside]
posted by 2legit2quit at 12:33 PM PST - 11 comments

Should I get my laptop repaired, sent back to manufacturer, or buy a new one?

I own a Lenovo Ideapad Y550. About six months ago, four keys on the keyboard popped off and the “A” and “1” key’s require multiple pressings to type. The audio out port on the laptop also broke. It still works, I just have to either hold or tape my earphones inside or it just come right back out. Should I just go to best buy or some computer place to have it fixed? [more inside]
posted by seanmhobson1988 at 12:28 PM PST - 5 comments

Last chance

Tell me about some things that aren't going to be around much longer. [more inside]
posted by theodolite at 11:59 AM PST - 106 comments

Turning a small closet into a productivity wonderland.

How do I make a small storage closet of an office livable for the next year? What kind of space saving measures/organizational things can I buy to make this work and keep myself sane? [more inside]
posted by SNWidget at 11:52 AM PST - 9 comments

Flatware-filter

Looking for flatware similar to a discontinued Pottery Barn pattern (more inside). [more inside]
posted by answergrape at 11:51 AM PST - 1 comment

What do I need to know before buying online from Chinese/Asian B2B Websites?

I'm considering buying a spice mill/grinder from an Chinese/Asian B2B website. They have an "escrow" service, but what do I need to know to avoid being scammed, receiving totally crappy goods, etc...? [more inside]
posted by webhund at 11:48 AM PST - 5 comments

Men's Style Filter: I need a recommendation for a fall and then winter coat.

What is the appropriate type of coat to wear over my normal attire? Details inside. [more inside]
posted by Silvertree at 11:46 AM PST - 13 comments

I forget. a lot. I don't know why. please help me.

I forget. a lot. I don't know why. please help me. [more inside]
posted by krautland at 11:45 AM PST - 21 comments

New car with 400+ miles?

New car with 400 miles on it. What should I know before purchasing? [more inside]
posted by Sufi at 11:36 AM PST - 10 comments

How to obtain authentic olive oil?

In light of the widespread adulteration of olive oil, how does one find authentic extra-virgin olive oil? Do protected designation of origin, organic, or fair trade certifications help? (Previously.)
posted by parudox at 11:23 AM PST - 11 comments

Help this Santa Monica girl stop relying on Big Pharma.

I'm looking for recommendations for a primary care physician who is also a naturopath, acupuncturist, or osteopath, or who at least is receptiveto eastern and/or complementary medicine. Preferably in Santa Monica but will consider the greater west side of Los Angeles. Bonus points if they accept my lousy Blue Shield California HMO insurance. Thanks in advance!
posted by chez shoes at 11:15 AM PST - 11 comments

This dog is a xenophobe. Good thing we're moving!

It's my dog's first move and I suspect it will be a rocky time. Help me figure out how to transition and help her not stress out! [more inside]
posted by actionpact at 11:01 AM PST - 6 comments

Searching for an exciting career.

Searching for an exciting career. Need some ideas. [more inside]
posted by red_rika at 10:58 AM PST - 8 comments

Have I accidently spoiled "Under the Dome" for myself?

Have I been spoiled? Question about "Under the Dome" by Stephen King - possible spoiler warning. [more inside]
posted by NoraCharles at 10:28 AM PST - 15 comments

Hot AND Warm. Hopefully.

Help me find some sexy socks. But not too sexy. [more inside]
posted by functionequalsform at 10:13 AM PST - 21 comments

Do jurists really not talk about cases with their loved ones?

I am a juror in a criminal case. I'm really considering: a.) talking to my wife about it; and b.) googling a couple things related to it. Just how bad of a citizen am I? Will I get caught? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 10:04 AM PST - 67 comments

Job title suggestions required (IT services)

I need to find a job title. Something which sounds better than "IT guy". [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 10:04 AM PST - 23 comments

I just want to see a TV picture in non-saturated color. Help end this comedy of errors!

Reached the end of my tech savvy-osity. Cannot for the life of me figure out how to select any of the options on my new-to-me's TV. I can SEE the menu, but can't access any options. All I want to do is adjust the picture! [more inside]
posted by FlyByDay at 9:52 AM PST - 2 comments

My eyeball has a soft spot.

I noticed my eyes were bloodshot the other day, particularly the right side of my right eye. Last night, i touched the red area with my finger out of curiosity, and it sort of... wrinkled. It's squishy in a way that my other eye is not. Should I be worried? [more inside]
posted by brenton at 9:44 AM PST - 20 comments

What's with the washing?

Bathroom Filter: Have I missed something my whole life or is this as weird as I think it is? [more inside]
posted by Cosine at 9:43 AM PST - 39 comments

Isekonia, you say 'wha?'

Attention glasses/contacts wearers! Do you have a major difference in the prescription between one eye and the other, aka anisometropia? Have you found any benefit from iseikonic lenses? [more inside]
posted by greatgefilte at 9:41 AM PST - 7 comments

Book Club meets TONIGHT and I haven't picked the next one!

I'm picking the next book for my reading group, and I need some recommendations. [more inside]
posted by Mimzy at 9:36 AM PST - 28 comments

Statistics of retail book sales?

Where can I find statistics on book sales, print vs. electronic? [more inside]
posted by jbickers at 9:23 AM PST - 2 comments

Put the shoes in the box

I have several Scout collapsible storage boxes that I picked up from TK Maxx. I would now like some more of the Hang Ten type size, as they would fit the bottom of my wardrobe and make finding things easier. Does anyone know of any suppliers that will ship to the UK cheaply- or are preferably based here? [more inside]
posted by mippy at 9:10 AM PST - 0 comments

Why does my landline go nuts when I pick up the phone?

Why does my landline go nuts when I pick up the phone? [more inside]
posted by MustardTent at 9:02 AM PST - 12 comments

How to entice restaurant reviewers?

How do you entice newspaper/magazine/blog writers into reviewing a restaurant? [more inside]
posted by paradoxflow at 8:47 AM PST - 13 comments

How to make Firefox always load my homepage?

Is it possible to make Firefox load my homepage AND the previous session when using Tab Mix Plus? [more inside]
posted by Solomon at 8:44 AM PST - 3 comments

Please help me unravel some quirks in Word 2008 for Mac: grey documents, memories of paginations past, mixed text sizes that go all 12 point

Mac Word mysteries: 1. Certain Word docs will go all grey when I start typing and will stay that way until I scroll away from that visible portion and then scroll back. 2. Likewise, toward the bottom of the page, Word wants to remember what used to be there before text shifted and won't show me what's really there unless I scroll away and back. 3. A colleague gives me a Word doc with mixed size text, I paste into my doc, and it goes all 12 point. I give them a doc with mixed text size and they get all 12 point when they open it. Ideas? [more inside]
posted by Askr at 8:33 AM PST - 6 comments

I'm tired of my computer protecting me from the horror of gaming

Windows 7 and StarForce have teamed up to keep me from playing games. Help! [more inside]
posted by umberto at 8:29 AM PST - 18 comments

Recommend a Skype camera/speaker setup for a remote speech therapist

We live in South America and our son is in need of a native English speaker to work with him on pronunciation. There is no one here who can help, but as luck would have it, we have a relative in the states who is a licensed speech therapist who can help over Skype. We're looking for camera and speaker suggestions for both sides - assuming we have solved the bandwidth issue, is there a camera for a PC that would be ideal for this? Are there other speech professionals who have done this before?
posted by carlodio at 8:15 AM PST - 3 comments

Is there life after Dickens?

Is there life after Dickens? (What should I try next after listening to all of Dickens via audiobooks?) [more inside]
posted by Creosote at 8:12 AM PST - 19 comments

I need to Get Things Done on my iPhone

I need a GTD compatible task management app for iPhone that will sync both Outlook tasks AND flagged emails over the air with Exchange Server 2003. Bonus points for three way Outlook/Google/iPhone syncronization and location aware task reminders. [more inside]
posted by tipthepizzaguy at 8:06 AM PST - 3 comments

bankruptcy lawyer

Looking for a good bankruptcy lawyer in NYC
posted by ebesan at 8:02 AM PST - 2 comments

My laptop won't turn on

My Dell XPS m1330 won't turn on anymore. How can I fix this? [more inside]
posted by pemberkins at 7:56 AM PST - 14 comments

Pressure canning filter

It's my first harvest season with a pressure canner, and after a few successful runs with very basic low-acid things, I'd like to try canning basic (meatless) spaghetti sauce/tomato soup base. How freely can I improvise a recipe based on what's in my garden? How do I know how long to process it? [more inside]
posted by phisbe at 7:34 AM PST - 7 comments

Which premium channel should I choose?

HBO, Cinemax or Showtime? I'm getting one movie channel with my cable company. Which one is your favorite and why? I love all movies and want lots of variety.
posted by TLCplz at 7:22 AM PST - 28 comments

What does this awesome 105-year-old Armenian-language Austro-Hungarian postcard say?

I just bought a postcard written in what looks like Armenian sent from what is now Lviv to what is now Chernivtsi (in what is now Ukraine), sometime between 1905 and (I'm guessing from the stamp) the end of the First World War/Austrian rule of Galicia. What does it say? [more inside]
posted by mdonley at 7:10 AM PST - 22 comments

I need a decent car for super cheap! Help!

What is the absolute best, most reliable car I can get for about $3000? [more inside]
posted by feathermeat at 6:53 AM PST - 35 comments

Anthropology of Engineering

Anthropology and/or evolutionary psychology/neurology of engineering. Does that exist? [more inside]
posted by DU at 6:00 AM PST - 18 comments

WE ARE SEX BOB-OMB AND WE'RE HERE TO MAKE MONEY AND SELL OUT AND STUFF

I’m in love with The Clash at Demonhead from the Scott Pilgrim movie. Unfortunately, they are fictional and Metric, the band that arranged it doesn’t have that harder sound I’m liking in TCAD. What real band sounds like them? (Strong female lead on vocals, good rhythm, slightly distorted sound, anthem-y? and yes I have heard of the Yeah, Yeah, Yeahs).
posted by edbles at 5:46 AM PST - 52 comments

Daytrip to Cambridge: What to see?

What should I do and see during a day trip to Cambridge, UK? [more inside]
posted by srboisvert at 5:45 AM PST - 12 comments

How to fix my iTunes to iPod Touch calendar sync?

iTunes broke my calendar. I can no longer sync Outlook to my iPod Touch because "sync server failed to sync." I can't find an answer to this on iTunes help although I do see that others have had this problem. Any suggestions? I've always done this over a USB cable. Nothing has changed except the calendar won't sync anymore. My iTunes software is up to date. I think Notes and Contacts are syncing -- though I just realized I haven't really tested that. I don't sync music in this operation, I do that from a different machine with different settings.
posted by Sia Stewart at 5:17 AM PST - 4 comments

Difference between National Adjectives ending in AN and those ending in ESE?

At my job we often need to ask the nationality of people we’re speaking to on the telephone. Help me solve a small disagreement around the grammar/ semantics of exactly how this is done. [more inside]
posted by cilantro at 4:57 AM PST - 27 comments

What kind of help do I need?

I need objective advice from a professional or professionals. But I don't know where to look or who to go to. [more inside]
posted by Tehhund at 4:47 AM PST - 6 comments

Itchy Bed. How do I clean it?

Itchy Bed. How do I clean it? [more inside]
posted by jander03 at 4:40 AM PST - 9 comments

Help me bill via PayPal, across continents?

Europeans using PayPal to bill customers in the U.S. or U.K., can you help me? I want to bill for services using PayPal, and then transfer the money to my Greek bank account. Greece uses the Euro. I'd like to bill in dollars for my U.S. clients, but I'm a PayPal newbie as far as receiving funds is concerned. Is there something that I should know about fees or ... um ... anything, really. I don't even know what I don't know! Any tips/advice will be helpful; don't assume it's too minor. :)
posted by taz at 3:53 AM PST - 12 comments

F5²

Best Doom 3 single-player mods? [more inside]
posted by turgid dahlia at 3:51 AM PST - 4 comments

What's it like to live on the Oregon coast?

I've been thinking about moving to the Oregon coast, close to the ocean, along the 101 corridor: Newport, Lincoln City, Tillamook, all that jazz. But right now these towns are just names to me. What's the skinny on that area? [more inside]
posted by fleacircus at 3:48 AM PST - 17 comments

How do rich people safeguard money?

How do rich people safeguard their money from theft? [more inside]
posted by devnull at 3:38 AM PST - 33 comments

How to replace the arial on a 2002 Ford Focus?

How to replace the aerial on a 2002 Ford Focus? [more inside]
posted by primer_dimer at 3:30 AM PST - 4 comments

青岛 - Qingdao Residents - help me with an address.

Calling Qingdao Residents - Where was the Dubai World "Palm Island" development going to be before it was cancelled? [more inside]
posted by priorpark17 at 3:22 AM PST - 0 comments

Throw An American a Bone

What would be the title of the U.S. Embassy personnel who would assist you if you had a close relative injured overseas in a major event? I'm looking for something more specific than Consular Agent. [more inside]
posted by la ninya at 1:53 AM PST - 7 comments

Where can I find a playstation -> usb adapter in Los Angeles?

Where could I find a playstation 1/2 controller to USB adapter in the Los Angeles area? [more inside]
posted by flaterik at 12:55 AM PST - 2 comments

The Badabucci Sisters? The Arivaderci Sisters?

I saw an ad for a pop group, 'The (Italian-sounding name) Sisters', saw them advertised as playing in UK maybe 2 years ago? Very cute singer, fifties-style dress...I know I'm not giving you much to go on, but it's one of those questions that bugs me when I can't sleep. Any help you could offer would be greatly appreciated.
posted by flowerofhighrank at 12:45 AM PST - 8 comments

Handwriting in the modern age, but not that modern

Is there a website or websites with lots of examples of handwriting? Mostly interested in handwriting before ubiquity of word processors, so up to 1960, say, and starting from the 18th century. Interested in penmanship of people who wrote daily, so journals, letters, as well as business forms, etc. Interested in mostly English (language) examples, but other languages using a Roman alphabet also a bonus.
posted by Busoni at 12:24 AM PST - 7 comments

August 24

H Pylori, Anti-Biotics and detoxing. How ?

I am recovering, hopefully, from H Pylori. I am trying to find out the best detox plan for being on such heavy meds. [more inside]
posted by eve28 at 11:40 PM PST - 25 comments

online psych dictionary

Can anyone recommend a good online psych dictionary? My googling has not yielded anything "good". [more inside]
posted by beccyjoe at 11:07 PM PST - 1 comment

Where Can I Buzz Fiberglass Off My Boat?

Where is a good place in the San Francisco Bay Area to work on a fiberglass boat? [more inside]
posted by gum at 10:12 PM PST - 6 comments

Help me eat better breakfasts.

What're your favorite breakfasts that are at least remotely healthy-ish? [more inside]
posted by GilloD at 9:53 PM PST - 49 comments

Moving with your own container

We are planning to move a 3 bedroom house from California to Anchorage Alaska. We are wondering if it would be possible to purchase our own container, and then hire a truck driver to move it for us? We are also wondering if it might be possible to have the container delivered to a storage facility where we might leave if for around a year while we take some time to tour the country? [more inside]
posted by mechantbruce at 9:35 PM PST - 3 comments

Please teach me about childcare.

Please bring me up to speed on childcare. Quickly. [more inside]
posted by bac at 9:14 PM PST - 38 comments

J'ai besoin d'aide s.v.p.!

Help me find a unique lingerie boutique in Montreal [more inside]
posted by lizbunny at 9:01 PM PST - 5 comments

Do cell phone signal repeaters actually work?

Do cell phone signal boosters like this one from Radio Shack actually work? Apparently an external antenna is mounted outside your home, and this is connected to a "desktop amplifier." In most rooms in my house, I'm riding with a single bar of signal (thank you, AT&T). If this can help, I'm all in. Does anyone have any experience with one of these?
posted by jackypaper at 8:50 PM PST - 15 comments

Military Baggage

What do military people do when they need to store their various items "somewhere" while they are stationed on a ship, sometimes for years at a time? [more inside]
posted by DisreputableDog at 8:22 PM PST - 12 comments

How to fight the Baker Act?

My daughter has been detained under Florida's Baker Act. A statement she made to a social worker was mis-interpreted, and she is being held against her will at a mental health facility. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:14 PM PST - 29 comments

Baggage Problem

Urgent-British-Airways-Filter: How do I check in and pay for extra luggage online (cheaper than at the airport)? [more inside]
posted by freddymetz at 8:06 PM PST - 6 comments

Where can I find Michael ("Dispatches") Herr's writing on the web?

Where can I find Michael ("Dispatches") Herr's writing on the web? I have read Dispatches multiple times and a recent link led me to this neat profile of Kubrick. What other articles or interview have people found?
posted by Sebmojo at 7:36 PM PST - 3 comments

In search of the "Golden Rod cake pan"

I'm searching for a cake pan that was apparently common in the early 20th century: the Golden Rod cake pan (also sometimes called a Waldorf Triangle cake pan). You can see an illustration one in the lower left corner of this picture, and here is a photograph. Here's another one (the pan on the right). Does anyone know of a current source for these pans? [more inside]
posted by litlnemo at 7:33 PM PST - 20 comments

Help me be a great boss!

How do I learn to be a good manager? I just became a manager for the first time, and I have no idea what I'm doing. The position I supervise is an entry-level web position and needs a lot of direction. [more inside]
posted by adverb at 7:08 PM PST - 19 comments

Bite The Big Apple, Don't Mind Deux Magots

Going to NYC for 1 week in early September with 2 kids, 10 and 13; what's fun for them to do? [more inside]
posted by msalt at 7:07 PM PST - 30 comments

How do I organise a veggie swap?

There's a gardener coming to speak at the library I work on next month and I thought I would also organise a veggie swap afterwards. So the publicity has gone out, my neighbours are coming and there has been interest from the local council and environment groups who are interested in starting their own if it goes well. My problem is I'm not sure how to practically run it. Should I issue tickets roughly based on market value when people drop off their produce or should I let it go for a free for all working on a trust basis. Anyone run one of these before? Any advise in general?
posted by nicole.hilder at 7:01 PM PST - 8 comments

How can I learn to paint?

I want to learn to paint. My job doesn't leave me any time to attend art classes on any kind of schedule. What should I do? [more inside]
posted by vidur at 7:01 PM PST - 11 comments

I'm going to Memphis, where the beat is tough.

First-time Memphis trip this fall - would love some MeFite recommendations. I have perused all the past threads, but there aren't many, and some of them are quite old so I'd like to check in with Memphians and regulars to see what's fresh. [more inside]
posted by pineapple at 6:58 PM PST - 14 comments

Yeah, I'm big in the art game.

Where do I resell a piece of art I once bought? [more inside]
posted by JakeWalker at 6:48 PM PST - 4 comments

Hurry before it gets cold.

Help me find "adventure races" near Chicago. [more inside]
posted by cmoj at 6:03 PM PST - 6 comments

Halp! Someone stole mah truck!

Our truck was stolen from our gated apartment complex. Is the complex at all liable? [more inside]
posted by phox at 6:02 PM PST - 13 comments

Tourist Trap?

I'm considering running off to Amsterdam this November, in no small part, due to the cannabis cup. Is it worth it? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:45 PM PST - 14 comments

Help me make a trek to Everest Base Camp more enjoyable

I'm going to be trekking to Everest Base Camp in 8 weeks time. It's a 14 day trek, which is both longer and higher than I've been before. I'm looking for advice on training for the trek. [more inside]
posted by finding.perdita at 5:13 PM PST - 8 comments

Adopted cat, age quoted was 2, vet says 12, and he has cancer. What to do?

Adopted cat, age quoted was 2, vet says 12, and he has cancer. What to do? [more inside]
posted by hussmanne at 4:58 PM PST - 12 comments

How to store/transport a warbonnet?

What is the best way to store and transport a Native American Double Trailer Warbonnet (like this one)? [more inside]
posted by Deflagro at 4:55 PM PST - 7 comments

Laptop 1 or Laptop 2?

Buying a new laptop, I have worked down to 2 choices. One has Win7 (32-bit) and 4gb DDR2 ram, the other has Win7 (64-bit) with 3gb DDR3 ram. Same price. I don't really know enough about the difference between 32/64bit or DDR2/3 to make a decision. Can you explain the difference and offer advice as to which is best. [more inside]
posted by Petrot at 4:14 PM PST - 12 comments

What is the best / cheapest Netbook (or other device?) for this music server-ish application?

What is the best / cheapest Netbook (or other device?) for this music server application? [more inside]
posted by Perplexity at 4:12 PM PST - 5 comments

Cool backpack for boyfriend?

I am trying to buy a really cool, really high quality backpack for my boyfriend. Must be available for purchase online or in Los Angeles. Any recommendations? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:12 PM PST - 25 comments

Computing on the couch without a laptop

I'd like to be able to use my desktop computer while i'm sitting on the couch. I've got an idea on how to do it, but maybe you do too? [more inside]
posted by escher at 3:56 PM PST - 14 comments

Spinning wheel during OS X install

MacBook Pro freezes (spinning wheel) during system install (10.5) -- what to do? [more inside]
posted by dead_ at 3:45 PM PST - 4 comments

Help me stop thinking of my dog as a small person.

Help me stop thinking of my dog as a small person. [more inside]
posted by TochterAusElysium at 3:43 PM PST - 21 comments

Interesting pinback button crafts

What creative or interesting things can I do with a collection of buttons and pins? [more inside]
posted by Gordafarin at 3:31 PM PST - 11 comments

Is a stolen PC effectively protected by a password?

In the event of a loss or theft, how safe is the data on a password-protected PC laptop? [more inside]
posted by Clambone at 3:26 PM PST - 12 comments

cheap, high protein, vegetarian recipes

Help me with some cheap, high protein, vegetarian recipes that can be eaten cold while I'm cramming for exams and don't have time to go home for dinner... [more inside]
posted by sartre08 at 3:03 PM PST - 29 comments

How do I find a pro bono graphic designer for my NYC-based literary arts nonprofit?

How do I find a pro bono graphic designer for my NYC-based literary arts nonprofit? (Or for that matter: Audio/visual/film help? IT help? Information Architecture help?) [more inside]
posted by kensanway at 2:56 PM PST - 6 comments

Are they really the Clear Choice?

Does anyone have any experience, either good or bad, with Clear Choice Dental Implant centers anywhere in the U.S.? Stories?
posted by notjustfoxybrown at 2:30 PM PST - 0 comments

What software industry position is right for an ex-consultant?

What software company positions would best use my management consulting skillset? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:24 PM PST - 7 comments

Somewhere between a loan shark and a bank lies the truth.

Is there anyone who loans money based on the situation, rather than on a credit score/computer without any explanation? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:24 PM PST - 13 comments

Weeds vs. brick patio vs. barely competent yard owner

Weeds vs. brick patio - help! [more inside]
posted by ryanshepard at 2:21 PM PST - 19 comments

Next week: What was that site with photos of librarians on drugs?

I've been trying to re-discover two websites that I've found before but have now utterly lost. One was a photo gallery of people in drug-induced altered states, and the other was a repository of name pronunciations curated by librarians. [more inside]
posted by Admiral Haddock at 2:19 PM PST - 10 comments

And I ran, So far away

MusicTeleVision: What music videos closely express the song premise? 50's to now, I would love to know and SLYT is encouraged. [more inside]
posted by Funmonkey1 at 1:54 PM PST - 28 comments

Yes, I know you love me, kitteh

How do I teach my kitty not to be a smartass, and keep me up until all hours of the night? [more inside]
posted by roomthreeseventeen at 1:37 PM PST - 42 comments

How do I enjoy music better?

How can I learn to listen to music better? I want to better understand what makes a well-crafted, beautiful song, beyond just knee-jerk reactions. [more inside]
posted by mccarty.tim at 1:35 PM PST - 27 comments

AC/DC for a sub. No, wait...

My son wants to DJ using a conventional amplifier and speakers, but with his car amp (Pioneer GM-D7400M) powering an 800 watt sub-woofer. This requires a 110 volt wall outlet converted to 12 volts. Can he use a battery charger, or does he need a larger, non-pulsing DC source, like an actual battery or DC power supply? Any other options/wiring tips? TIA.
posted by weapons-grade pandemonium at 1:30 PM PST - 9 comments

The Gravys go to SF!

2 Days in San Francisco for sightseeing, should we rent a car? [more inside]
posted by Secret Life of Gravy at 1:29 PM PST - 23 comments

Weather Stats

Where can I find past weather stats? Specifically, I need daily rain and snowfall totals for Stevenson, WA from 1967 up to today. All the sites I've found don't go back far enough, or don't do daily totals.
posted by MarioM at 1:23 PM PST - 5 comments

Paris apt rental?

Renting a vacation apartment in Paris: advice? [more inside]
posted by cgs at 1:22 PM PST - 23 comments

She makes Eeyore seem optimistic

What are your best tips for dealing with The Underminer? [more inside]
posted by kidelo at 1:17 PM PST - 21 comments

What is a reasonable sponsorship fee?

What is the going rate for "beer league" sponsorship? [more inside]
posted by cmfletcher at 1:14 PM PST - 5 comments

How to stream specific radio stations from thousands of miles away, with my Android phone.

How can I listen to a little piece of Newfoundland while in Ohio, via my Android phone? [more inside]
posted by newfers at 1:08 PM PST - 3 comments

Show me your miscellany!

Three of my all-time favorite books are The Oxford Dictionary of Literary Allusions, 1000 Sayings of History*, and Asimov's Biographical Encyclopedia of Science & Technology. Beyond the divergent content, what ties these three titles together are that they consist of rather a lot of very short (<500-word) histories. Now that I've memorized these three, I'm hungry for more. What other books are out there like these? What are the best published** encyclopedic miscellanies? [more inside]
posted by carsonb at 12:51 PM PST - 29 comments

Help me instill the sociological imagination

I need to find interesting things for incoming freshmen to read in a social sciences seminar. [more inside]
posted by Crotalus at 12:34 PM PST - 9 comments

Our Creepy Condolences

Our customer's mom died. Is it appropriate to send a card? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 12:23 PM PST - 29 comments

CASE COSTLY ACQUISITION (2d6 SAN)

I recently bought the Laundry series by Charles Stross and thanks to that and Artw's constant efforts to encourage the stars to come right I'm really jonesing for some Call of Cthulhu/Delta Green action. It's been a loooong time since I've had any chance or time for roleplaying and I'm so far out of the loop I'm in non-euclidean space... [more inside]
posted by longbaugh at 12:02 PM PST - 14 comments

Carry me Home

Girlfriend has just been diagnosed bipolar. Now what? [more inside]
posted by Mach3avelli at 12:01 PM PST - 39 comments

Figuring This Out Is Complicated

Viral Marketing Filter: I have seen several billboards locally with messages such as "My Life Is Complicated" and "Molecular Biology is Complicated". They are red with a white oval box in which the first two words are written. The "is complicated" part is written on the red background. Does anyone know what these are about? [more inside]
posted by wittgenstein at 11:49 AM PST - 9 comments

A Quezon City Life

I am gearing up for a probable move from NYC to Manila. I've been looking at the artist-run spaces there and looking for info on possible areas to live. We will be moving to Quezon City. Does anyone have any ideas or resources regarding where we should live within QC, and interesting things to seek out there/in Manila generally? I've already found Green Papaya, Big Sky Mind, Cubao X, and 18th Ave. Space. [more inside]
posted by thegreatfleecircus at 11:45 AM PST - 7 comments

Original Xbox (modified?) with old version of Evolution-X (EvoX?). What to do with it?

Original Xbox (modified?) with old version of Evolution-X (EvoX?). What to do with it? [more inside]
posted by doomtop at 11:43 AM PST - 11 comments

How to lose sheen on wool jacket

I have a navy wool blazer (tropical wool, I think it's called) that I wear to work sometimes. The underside of the sleeves has become all shiny from being rubbed against my desk as I type at my computer. Is there anything I can do to lose the sheen? I just had it dry-cleaned and it's still just as bad as before. The dry-cleaner said there's nothing that can be done about it.
posted by Dragonness at 11:30 AM PST - 12 comments

Worst Prom Theme Ever

Recommend a blacklight for a party -- a cat pee finding party! [more inside]
posted by chesty_a_arthur at 10:41 AM PST - 14 comments

How to teach myself illustration?

I'm re-learning how to draw, and particularly interested in illustration/cartooning. Looking for resources that will aid me in my quest. [more inside]
posted by Metroid Baby at 10:19 AM PST - 22 comments

Cliffnotes 2.0

I was reading my Kindle last night and my entrepreneurial light went on. I am looking for feedback on the idea, but also techniques that I can use to gauge the feasibility, and legality, of this and future ideas. My idea was Cliffnotes 2.0. Book and article summaries for busy people in a world of ever increasing information. [more inside]
posted by jasondigitized at 10:03 AM PST - 8 comments

Can I Make It Happen at 40?

I am a newly single 40 year-old woman who’d like to be in a stable relationship and to start a family. I’m afraid that the man I’m looking for does not exist. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 10:01 AM PST - 35 comments

Money Order Scam?

My coworker received 2 money orders via USPS priority mail today. They were in 2 different amounts, both addressed to him. The address and name on the FROM section of the money order were from a different name and state than the return address on the mail. He did not recognize either name or address. What is going on? [more inside]
posted by elvissa at 10:00 AM PST - 13 comments

First TV show that included texting

What was the first instance of two characters on a TV show sending or receiving a text message on TV? [more inside]
posted by TsuKata at 9:54 AM PST - 15 comments

North by Northwest

I want an iPhone app that will allow me to get back to where I've been using the GPS, Compass and (optionally) mapping software. Essentially, I would bookmark places I want to return to. Then, to get back to them, I can just open the app, hit the bookmark and it tells me which direction to travel and how far to go. [more inside]
posted by 47triple2 at 9:47 AM PST - 11 comments

Help me find organizations to help without volunteering or giving money! (However, body parts and signatures are fine)

What databases can I join to help people/the environment/whatever else needs saving at no cost to me? [more inside]
posted by tweedle at 9:42 AM PST - 6 comments

Going To Corpus Christi

Going to Corpus Christi, need ideas on where to go bird watch, wind surf, kayak, and sight see.
posted by villazapat at 9:26 AM PST - 3 comments

No sir, YOU say potato, now you've ruined the suspension of disbelief!

Is there a word similar to anachronism for when a writer uses a dialect or jargon in the wrong person, ethnic group or similar? [more inside]
posted by xetere at 9:19 AM PST - 27 comments

Deodorizing a house

De-stinkifying a house of cat smell--while the cats (and their not-so-hygenic owners) still live there. I found a place I want to live (cheap!), but all of the common areas smell very strongly of cat and litterbox. If I move in, are there any affordable measures I can take to return the place to tolerable freshness? Or should I find somewhere else to live? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:19 AM PST - 19 comments

Where do average website visitors live?

I'm community manager for a site that's kind of like metafilter (community blog) but for developmental biologists only. I need to present some site stats soon, and I think I have this really cool analysis of how the top 10 visiting countries are all countries with existing developmental biology societies (which is rare, with only 11 societies worldwide) but, being a properly trained scientist, I need controls... [more inside]
posted by easternblot at 9:01 AM PST - 4 comments

Security and performance on one Win 7 PC

Windows 7 security: I want to use the same boot for general use and audio production. Can you help me review my plan for decent performance and security? [more inside]
posted by Not Supplied at 8:48 AM PST - 8 comments

A mouse probably shit in my wok. How to clean?

A mouse may probably took a shit in my well-seasoned wok. How thoroughly must I clean it? [more inside]
posted by bingo at 8:47 AM PST - 32 comments

I need to get up to speed on European finance.

I need to get up to speed on European finance. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:41 AM PST - 2 comments

Should I continue with my UK visa application if I might be eligible for citizenship?

What should I do with my visa application if I may be eligible for UK citizenship? [more inside]
posted by _superconductor at 8:33 AM PST - 12 comments

Atlanta to Outer Banks via Charlotte and Greensboro - where would you sleep, eat, play?

ATL to Outer Banks (by way of Charlotte and Greensboro) with 2 adults & 3 small kids. Help me find places to stay, eat and get the wiggles out! I'm a writer, so bonus points if these are places I could write about, but really I just want to survive the trip. [more inside]
posted by mdiskin at 8:22 AM PST - 12 comments

Help me configure my wireless router please!!!

Help me configure a Netgear wireless router so it works with ALL the computers in my house. [more inside]
posted by prior at 8:11 AM PST - 12 comments

How do I publish phonecalls legally?

How can I go about legally posting phone calls made to businesses on the internet without getting into "invasion of privacy" issues? [more inside]
posted by a47danger at 7:57 AM PST - 19 comments

Am I on to something here, or is the still random data points?

AllergenIDFilter: Is there a common denominator between (1) public water parks (2) Dawn dish detergent (3) water/sewer utilities? [more inside]
posted by Ys at 7:46 AM PST - 4 comments

I want in on this trick!

How do I make that nice smaller font that some posters here use? [more inside]
posted by BostonTerrier at 7:44 AM PST - 16 comments

How to make bathtimes more splendid?

What are some awesome things to add to a hot bath? Cost is a factor, but feel free to post rare treats as well. Currently I favour magnesium sulfate and tea tree oil.
posted by nicolas léonard sadi carnot at 7:12 AM PST - 13 comments

NYC for me and 50 of my students

Cultural activity in NYC on Oct. 8? [more inside]
posted by Cuke at 7:08 AM PST - 11 comments

history a mile high

Looking for books about, or set in, Denver, Colorado. Movies, too! [more inside]
posted by the bricabrac man at 6:57 AM PST - 15 comments

My "No. 1" Question about Hygiene

Which is cleaner? Touch no surfaces and don't wash your hands during a public restroom visit or touch various surfaces and then wash your hands? [more inside]
posted by Any Moose In a Storm at 6:49 AM PST - 39 comments

Dreams and Nightmares Costume Ideas

I need costume ideas for the theme "dreams and nightmares"! [more inside]
posted by t-rex at 6:44 AM PST - 24 comments

HDMI CEC in the real world

HDMI CEC in the real world: I've got a new Samsung LED TV, which has got a number of DVD-like control buttons on the remote (play, pause, rewind etc). I'd like to use these to control a Blu-ray player when I buy one, but can I buy any (recent) player and be confident that the TV and player will work together (via HDMI Consumer Electronics Control) as advertised? Do they all play nice together in practice?
posted by Harald74 at 5:47 AM PST - 6 comments

My Blogger guest posters are second class citizens!

When posting to a Blogger blog that I administer, I can see and use the "X-Large" option to size my photos, and they appear as they should (about 640 px in the long dimension). None of the seven other registered guest contributors even sees an option for the "X-Large" image size when they create their posts. What's wrong? [more inside]
posted by imjustsaying at 5:05 AM PST - 2 comments

I would like to obey my thirst, but...

I would like to obey my thirst, but... I recently realised I don't seem to get thirsty when I should. I had to take a tablet and grabbed a glass of water to do so. As soon as I began drinking I felt desperately thirsty and drank a second glass. But I swear if you'd asked me a minute before, I'd have said I wasn't thirsty. In this thread, people are saying it's healthy to drink before you start feel thirst. But I don't seem to feel it much at all. [more inside]
posted by AmbroseChapel at 4:12 AM PST - 23 comments

Can anyone recommend me some ear plugs for sleeping?

Can anyone recommend me some ear plugs for sleeping? [more inside]
posted by sockpim at 2:22 AM PST - 20 comments

Do you know of a cheaper Green printer and book-binder?

Green Printers and book-binders that are low cost? (preferably Europe) [more inside]
posted by JiffyQ at 2:11 AM PST - 2 comments

Wedding invite font?

Quick font question. Can anyone point me to a (free) font like the small caps one used in the (humourous) wedding invite here? Thanks.
posted by krisjohn at 1:09 AM PST - 8 comments

New York at Short Notice

Last minute trip to New York, and need somewhere good-value and well-connect to stay. [more inside]
posted by sid.tv at 12:33 AM PST - 15 comments

Cancer sux

It's my sister vs. leukemia, and leukemia, it seems, may win. Muddled questions from a muddled brain inside. [more inside]
posted by buzzkillington at 12:12 AM PST - 31 comments

August 23

Need a car, but can't get a loan

Application for auto loan was declined. Now what? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 11:35 PM PST - 22 comments

Dealing with confused yet enthusiastic commenters

How do bloggers or community websites deal with comments from new users which are on-topic for the site but off-topic for the current conversation? It happens regularly on my blog. Deletion seems harsh: if the person is interested in the subject it seems like a missed opportunity to get a new member and teach them how to use the internet appropriately. What are some alternatives? [more inside]
posted by harriet vane at 11:32 PM PST - 16 comments

Replacing the weeds in my lawn with grass this fall.

Replacing the weeds in my lawn with grass this fall. Best way to do it? [more inside]
posted by waylaid at 11:04 PM PST - 12 comments

How to attract potential writers

What can we offer to attract locals, part-time locals and/or tourists to our tiny literary arts space? [more inside]
posted by viva viola at 10:45 PM PST - 6 comments

It's a hard knock life for Bear

A friend is planning to rescue a dog from a native reserve and I will be looking after her for at least the next couple of months starting this weekend. What are the things I need to think about doing? [more inside]
posted by talkingmuffin at 10:29 PM PST - 12 comments

Convince us El Paso is more than just hot!

Nearby drug violence, unbearable heat, and no grass in our yard... Does anyone have any reasons to look forward to moving to El Paso? [more inside]
posted by keribear at 10:04 PM PST - 17 comments

Is he really flakey? Or am I crazy?

My boyfriend is flakey and I have zero tolerance for flakey behavior. Am I reaching the point of being unreasonable, and should I learn to be more lenient? [more inside]
posted by squirtle at 9:24 PM PST - 44 comments

USPS Postage Question

Why are my 42-cent USPS First Class stamped letters being delivered? [more inside]
posted by whiskeyspider at 8:53 PM PST - 13 comments

Identify this dome tent.

So I bought a used Jansport dome tent. It is nice and cost me very little, but I was wondering if there is a complete list of Jansport tents online somewhere that I can use to identify it. [more inside]
posted by mecran01 at 8:50 PM PST - 4 comments

What to call a speakeasy-door-slit-hatch-peephole-thing?

You know that vertical slit in the doors of speakeasies, mafia hideouts and other places where you need to be sized up before entering? With the little metal hatch that slides to one side? Is there a word for it other than "peephole?" [more inside]
posted by Narrative Priorities at 8:50 PM PST - 13 comments

Free online social media marketing course out there somewhere?

Free online social media marketing course out there somewhere? [more inside]
posted by chinabound at 8:41 PM PST - 1 comment

First fine phone

What kind of phone should we get our son for his 17th birthday? We'd like to get him something reasonably cool, while keeping it reasonably cheap. [more inside]
posted by lukemeister at 8:19 PM PST - 21 comments

More "Pathologic" than "Doom"

A while back, I encountered the work of a painter whose work included striking vistas of Hell. Now I can't remember who it was. [more inside]
posted by sonic meat machine at 8:10 PM PST - 6 comments

Real estate in New Orleans

RealEstateFilter: I'm young, single, nearly debt-free and tired of paying lots of money to live in an apartment. Should I buy a house when my long-term plans don't necessarily have me sticking around more than 3-5 years? It's in New Orleans! [more inside]
posted by ista at 8:09 PM PST - 14 comments

It's not a Nigerian money order, but......

I'm trying to sell my car: is this potential buyer trying to scam me by paying with a "credit card check?" [more inside]
posted by otolith at 8:04 PM PST - 23 comments

Can I lend a collection of art books?

[LibraryFilter] Can I lend a collection of art books to a library? [more inside]
posted by griphus at 7:30 PM PST - 4 comments

Post-coital cleanup help!

What's the best way to clean up after my boyfriend has ejaculated inside me? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:19 PM PST - 31 comments

Do I have a moral obligation to help my ex get out of his affair?

Do I have a moral obligation to help my ex get out of his affair? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:18 PM PST - 18 comments

How to deal with potentially l

My contractor hasn't completed my renovations in the required time. I've given him notice that he's in default of our contract, and he had 7 days to get it together. He's now AWOL. Do I need a lawyer? If so, how much will that cost? If not, what do I do? If so, what do I do until I get one? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:17 PM PST - 10 comments

Urban scavenger hunt - can skill win over speed?

My boyfriend and I signed up to do an urban scavenger hunt next weekend - tips/advice for the middle aged and/or out of shape? [more inside]
posted by tristeza at 7:14 PM PST - 5 comments

Sex(less) Kitten

Help me prove that my cat is not a masturbation addict. [more inside]
posted by spamguy at 7:06 PM PST - 20 comments

Creative domain name needed!

I need a domain name idea for an online donation service. The shorter the better! [more inside]
posted by jeffrygardner at 7:06 PM PST - 13 comments

Help me understand the mystical Wi-Fi Music Player of which you speak.

Help me understand what I need to set up a Squeezebox system in my house. [more inside]
posted by crush-onastick at 7:05 PM PST - 13 comments

Book recommendations for interactive / multimedia project management

Book recommendations for interactive / multimedia project management? [more inside]
posted by ga$money at 5:48 PM PST - 2 comments

Gariz leather half-case for Olympus E-P2

I am looking for this Gariz half-case for my Olympus E-P2. Unfortunately, I do not speak Korean, and I don't trust myself to figure out how to order. Where can I find one online (from an English site) or in a Toronto-area brick and mortar store? Any leads are much appreciated. I really, really love this case.
posted by anekona at 5:45 PM PST - 4 comments

How do I find a decent Indy child support attorney?

YANAL, but that's what I need. How do I go about finding a decent child support attorney in Indianapolis? [more inside]
posted by Golfhaus at 5:44 PM PST - 5 comments

Visa company loses passport, what now?

My friend is in a tough situation. They are moving to China to teach English but have been beset by issues that crop up constantly. The latest major issue, with a flight only three days away is the loss of their passport by Same Day Passports. Advice desperately needed! More inside... [more inside]
posted by occidental at 5:34 PM PST - 7 comments

Reiser 4

Are you allowed to use a computer in the US when you are in prison? [more inside]
posted by yoyo_nyc at 5:32 PM PST - 19 comments

Sliding glass door condensation

How to deal with condensation between panes of a sliding glass door? [more inside]
posted by Morrigan at 4:58 PM PST - 8 comments

Montreal fruit picking - can I do this for free?

I want to pick fruit and vegetables - for free or very cheaply - in Montreal. Is there any organization that exists here that is similar to Toronto's Not Far From the Tree? [more inside]
posted by andreapandrea at 4:52 PM PST - 9 comments

What's the best way to learn about formatting documents?

What's the best way to learn about formatting documents? [more inside]
posted by forallmankind at 4:48 PM PST - 10 comments

can someone send me over the counter drugs abroad?

I am in Peru long term. How possible is it for someone to send me Plan B/Emergency contraceptive and vitamin supplements from the United States via regular USPS mail? Or generally, does shipping "drugs" like these cause difficulties going through customs?
posted by dahliachewswell at 4:41 PM PST - 10 comments

2 WiFi networks in the same house?

Two separate wireless networks - possible, I think. But how? [more inside]
posted by jrchaplin at 4:37 PM PST - 12 comments

BFFs?

Help me deal with my best friend while she deals with her grief. [more inside]
posted by reBaker at 4:36 PM PST - 9 comments

Fibromyalgia Help

I have recently been diagnosed with fibromyalgia by a pain doc and then a rheumatologist as a second opinion. The kicker is that I do not think that I have fibro. I have visited all sorts of message boards and my symptoms do not seem to match up with the experiences of others w/ fibro. My rheumatologist is open to other diagnoses and hasn't pigeon holed me yet but cannot suggest another possibility. [more inside]
posted by futz at 4:27 PM PST - 20 comments

Does the future scale?

Does the future scale? [more inside]
posted by frodoxiii at 4:23 PM PST - 15 comments

Ready! Set! Come!

Tell me your surefire way of bringing a man to orgasm quickly. [more inside]
posted by HotPatatta at 4:04 PM PST - 25 comments

Calculating Statistic Ratio for .02347% out of ~4.6m -- 1 for every..?

StatisticsFilter: Out of 4,686,100 doctors in the US, a survey claims that "1100 doctors in the US think.." and amounts to roughly .02347% of doctors in the US (1100 / 4,686,100 = .02347% / 100%). So that's one doctor that thinks this, for every how many doctors? [more inside]
posted by Quarter Pincher at 3:59 PM PST - 38 comments

Immediate Decision: Sarah Lawrence or CUNY Baruch College?

Undergrad student who wants to transfer from Baruch to Sarah Lawrence here. This morning, I learned that my application for a $10,000 loan from NYHelps (a loan program from the state) was turned down. I need that money to attend Sarah Lawrence. Should I suck it up and take a private loan from Chase (variable interest rate starting at 8.75%) or return to Baruch College, where I would pay nothing? [more inside]
posted by melancholyplay at 3:52 PM PST - 47 comments

Fully loaded clip.

How to remove toeclips from my pedals? [more inside]
posted by matthewr at 3:12 PM PST - 7 comments

How do I reconnect with my mom?

[Familial relations filter] How can I re-establish a meaningful relationship with my mother despite being abroad most of the year and that she is constantly burying herself in work? [more inside]
posted by wallawallasweet at 2:52 PM PST - 8 comments

US cinema database

Where can I find a database of cinemas in the US, for use in a film website my brother is building? [more inside]
posted by Gonnas at 2:50 PM PST - 7 comments

Looking for a program that will track deposits and expenses

Looking for software or an app that will allow me to track expenses via SMS, but that will also allow me to track how much money is left in my account. [more inside]
posted by reenum at 2:42 PM PST - 4 comments

PDF maker

How can I create a high-quality but small file sized, multi-page PDF? I am assembling a design portfolio and have access to Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Bridge and Indesign. [more inside]
posted by pulled_levers at 2:27 PM PST - 14 comments

Looking for a non-office job where I can take pride in my work and not deal with too many people.

What are some jobs that are "out in the world" (i.e. not in an office) that don't involve lots of interaction with people? [more inside]
posted by allseeingabstract at 2:17 PM PST - 32 comments

How Can I Help My Brother?

My brother is moving to New York soon. What would be a good, useful gift for him? More after the fold. [more inside]
posted by glaucon at 2:13 PM PST - 18 comments

yoga fly paper

What is the stickiest yoga mat in existence? [more inside]
posted by TheOtherSide at 2:05 PM PST - 15 comments

How do I vet a rest home by remote?

I have to put my mother into a care facility (and wow, they're expensive!). How do I thoroughly check out whether or not one will be good for her before allowing my mother anywhere near the place? I live about 2 hours away and plan to check it out but want to do as much legwork as I can beforehand. Thanks for the help.
posted by miss lynnster at 2:04 PM PST - 17 comments

We can have noms now plz?

Ideas for supper for me, my sister, and her husband? [more inside]
posted by deezil at 2:02 PM PST - 24 comments

What did I do to invite this?

Am I doing something to invite propositions I don't necessarily want? [more inside]
posted by frosty_hut at 1:43 PM PST - 34 comments

Pear Bondage (or: will no one rid me of these troublesome Anjous?)

I'm a volunteer with Toronto's Not Far From the Tree group and just came back from a very successful pick with 15 pounds of Anjou pears that should be fully ripe within a few days. I'm thinking maybe pear crisp, pie or cake, or little hand-held pasties with a pear filling, but mostly, I've dying to hear some great recipes in these areas or beyond. Criteria (beyond awesome taste): portability (I'm off to a meetup this Saturday via bike) and/or easy freezing (for whatever stuff I can make that I can't transport on Saturday).
posted by maudlin at 1:41 PM PST - 9 comments

Help me find this Barcelona nightclub again!

I would love to find this great Barcelona hidden bohemian opera cocktail bar again, can anyone help? [more inside]
posted by alchemist at 1:40 PM PST - 3 comments

What would be a good gift (from Los Angeles) to bring a Japanese friend in Tokyo?

What would be a good gift (from Los Angeles) to bring a Japanese friend in Tokyo? [more inside]
posted by pnoeric at 1:40 PM PST - 10 comments

When Will Online Photo Display Equal Prints?

Are efforts afoot to improve the quality of photos displayed on computer monitors? What, for example, would it take to produce a photo display on a screen that would be essentially indistinguishable from a darkroom print of the same size? Do we need screens with many more, smaller, pixels? Do we need better software? Both?
posted by justcorbly at 1:27 PM PST - 11 comments

I want to recreate the swimming scenes in Gattaca

Where can I find long (1-2 miles?) open water swimming near Santa Barbara? Obviously, I know about the ocean. [more inside]
posted by bluejayk at 1:19 PM PST - 4 comments

I Am the Mall Anachronism

I Am the Mall Anachronism: I want to know about businesses/locations that are, unlike Billy Pilgrim, firmly STUCK in time. Places which trundled along, arrived at 1976, or 1989, and then... stayed there. [more inside]
posted by julthumbscrew at 1:17 PM PST - 59 comments

How quickly can I learn Unreal for sound design?

What are my best next actions to learning the Unreal Engine for sound design? [more inside]
posted by fantasticninety at 1:02 PM PST - 5 comments

Help me find an iPad alternative.

I'm in the market for an iPad-like tablet PC, but not an iPad. [more inside]
posted by xedrik at 12:53 PM PST - 20 comments

Music for little fingers

Good electric (musical) keyboard for a 3-year-old girl? [more inside]
posted by svenx at 12:51 PM PST - 5 comments

c-x GRAR

Have you ever installed and used Emacs org-mode? Can you please help me try it? The instructions here are ambiguous, vague, and complicated. I am an Emacs neophyte, so it would be awesome if someone could explain this slowly to me! [more inside]
posted by koeselitz at 12:35 PM PST - 10 comments

Majors versus minors

Is getting a minor in college worth anything? [more inside]
posted by LSK at 12:23 PM PST - 41 comments

I already have a dartboard, so that's out.

What to do with pictures/mementos of an ex? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 12:10 PM PST - 38 comments

Who is responsible for catching a lapsed gym membership?

My gym never notified me that my membership had lapsed, until today - 14 months after the fact. They want me to pay for the 14 months. Should I have to pay it? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 12:10 PM PST - 43 comments

Logistical and philosophical issues when relocating to, well, nowhere. Sort of.

Recently, 1) I got (amicably) disengaged from a lovely person, 2) decided to sell my house in Columbia, SC, 3) had my work project in Columbia end, and 4) had my company put my on a new project in Raleigh, NC, with a free corporate apartment. So, for a while at least, I can live in Raleigh for free in a corporate apartment, but where should I have mail sent? Should I get a new driver's license and re-register my car, when I really have nothing tying me to Raleigh? I'm intentionally homeless for a bit, but the logistics are killing me! [more inside]
posted by peripatetic007 at 12:09 PM PST - 10 comments

What is the best thing to do?

Help me decide the better option: sell this house and buy a smaller one, or do a low cost remodel with better energy efficiency. More details inside. [more inside]
posted by magnoliasouth at 11:55 AM PST - 12 comments

What blog service plays nicely in a subdomain?

I have an existing website/domain and would like to *quickly* add a blog, probably at blog.myexistingdomain.com. What blogish services make this easy?
posted by Moistener at 11:51 AM PST - 14 comments

Peachtree Accounting from Quickbooks, learning fast?

Moving to Peachtree Accounting from Quickbooks, need to learn some basics fast and well: transactions, different account types (checking, credit, A/R), creating and tracking invoices. Print books cost $$$, are unreviewable, and aren't available quickly. I'd like to get this done today. Advice? Am I making a mistake? [more inside]
posted by amtho at 11:39 AM PST - 5 comments

How to bleach a printed shirt

Can I bleach a t-shirt without disturbing the print? [more inside]
posted by giggleknickers at 11:39 AM PST - 2 comments

How does sports announcing work?

What are the mechanics of live sports commentary? [more inside]
posted by gabrielsamoza at 11:37 AM PST - 10 comments

How do you talk to a dying friend?

What do you say to a dying friend? [more inside]
posted by Evangeline at 11:33 AM PST - 25 comments

Please recommend books about people trapped together

I was relieved to hear that they found the Chilean miners alive, and amazed that they will be trapped for four months until rescue. It also reminded me that I like reading books about people who are isolated somewhere for a long time. (I hope this doesn't sound morbid.) I'm not so much interested in tragedy and death; I'm more interested in the psychology and group dynamics of people who are forced to live closely together. Space station? Submarine? Post-apocalyptic abandoned museum? [more inside]
posted by exceptinsects at 11:05 AM PST - 51 comments

Looking for photos for Bob Forrest doc.

Looking for photos of exterior of Raji's, Cathay de Grande and Top Taco for documentary about Bob Forrest. (details) [more inside]
posted by Ideefixe at 11:00 AM PST - 3 comments

Need help to find mental health resources

I need advice about resources to help a severely anxious and depressed family member. [more inside]
posted by 7life at 10:58 AM PST - 6 comments

What website has the most/best used car listings?

Lots of sites have listings of locally available used cars. Aside from Craigslist (which is spotty where I live), what site do you feel is most widely used and provides the best variety of listings, especially of cars being sold by a dealer (of any size)?
posted by anastasiav at 10:57 AM PST - 5 comments

Looking for a comfortable green bed in the US

My wife and I are looking for an environmentally friendly queen-sized bed, ideally from the US to cut down on shipping costs/impacts. Also, what's the best thing to do with an old bed? Details and thoughts inside. [more inside]
posted by filthy light thief at 10:06 AM PST - 14 comments

Are brain scans useful for treating depression?

My mother wants me to try a psychiatrist who uses "brain scans" to figure out what drug would be most effective. Has this technique been proven to be useful by the medical community? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:25 AM PST - 19 comments

What is wrong with my husband?

Is my husband mentally ill, or just an asshole? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:22 AM PST - 40 comments

Can we skip the flogging tonight, dear? I have to wash the drapes.

My hubby's kinky. I'm not. Please help us figure out a fair way to compromise in the bedroom. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:22 AM PST - 48 comments

Do my circumstances make me an eligible pet owner?

I am thinking of getting a pet dog, is this a good idea or not? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:13 AM PST - 31 comments

Help me make Nebraska and Iowa interesting

Stuffing a 7, 5 and 3-year-old into the backseat of a Corolla and driving from Colorado Springs through Nebraska and Iowa to Madison, Wis. Happy to take the trip over two days and stop frequently to maintain sanity; any recommended pit stops? [more inside]
posted by blueshammer at 8:39 AM PST - 15 comments

Best Emergency Alert System?

The short version: My parents now need a LifeAlert-ish system for their home. Looking for the best one, with some added difficulties. [more inside]
posted by unlucky.lisp at 8:29 AM PST - 6 comments

The rodent eats cat food in the nighttime

What shadowy creature did I see eating my cat's food last night? What do I do about it? [more inside]
posted by Katine at 8:16 AM PST - 32 comments

Scammers or "real" people?

I'm trying to sell an inexpensive item on Craigslist. I've received a couple of responses from interested people, but how can I tell if they're "real"? [more inside]
posted by trillian at 7:50 AM PST - 22 comments

8 yrs old, going on 14. Tired of Nickelodeon.

Is there a kid-friendly portal to pop music videos? She is not satisfied by Kid Disney and she wants to listen to the "latest" hits. She begs us to let her watch music videos on YouTube, but she's not ready to be let loose on that yet. So where can we let her browse and watch "current" videos with not too much bad stuff? [more inside]
posted by cross_impact at 7:27 AM PST - 9 comments

Medicine-related deep-house track ID, plz

TrackIdFilter: I've been trying in vain to ID this deep house track that features the following lyrics: "There ain't no pill that can fill this need" and "Somebody call the doctor" (there's more to it, but this is what I can remember). It was played at Panorama Bar, Berghain, by Kiki at around 11am or so last Sunday morning. [more inside]
posted by LMGM at 7:01 AM PST - 4 comments

Television set alternatives

What options do I have that allow me to watch cable and dvds without a television set? [more inside]
posted by mizrachi at 6:34 AM PST - 9 comments

Goin' to Florabama with a banjo on my knee

Going to Gulf Shores, Alabama, the week after Labor Day weekend. We'll have a car. The beach is fun, but we are both fair-skinned sun wimps and will need interesting hikes/historical things to amuse us when it's time for shade. What should we see and do? What should we skip? We are in our 30's, amenable to visiting and enjoying a few signature Redneck Riviera highlights but mostly want to spend time together and get reacquainted.
posted by thinkingwoman at 6:33 AM PST - 5 comments

Help me identify these mystery vessels!

I took the night ship from Oslo to Copenhagen last week. When we were about an hour out of Oslo, two of these boats came up on us out of nowhere, spent nearly an hour zooming up and down the length of the ship and back and forth across the wake, then abruptly vanished. Who were they and what, exactly, were they doing? [more inside]
posted by anderjen at 5:57 AM PST - 7 comments

What is the "Inner Life Intensive" workshop like at Kripalu Yoga Center?

Has anyone ever taken the "Inner Quest Intensive" 3-day course at Kripalu Yoga Center in Lenox, MA? I'm thinking about doing it and would like to hear what others' experiences were like. Specifically, what did you actually do during the time there -- how were the days structured, what kinds of practices did you experience? [more inside]
posted by parsley7 at 5:34 AM PST - 4 comments

Modern Marines Versus Vikings?

Name That Movie Filter: I'm looking for the name of a movie I caught a brief snippet of on Russian TV, which was therefore dubbed. It involved a dark haired, modern looking (and US by uniform design) soldier being interrogated and beaten by a trio of Vikings or similar 'iron age' warriors. There were questions involving a dragon. It did look fairly recent (last 10 years perhaps).
posted by Sustainable Chiles at 5:19 AM PST - 3 comments

Shopping in London

I will be visiting London for two weeks or so in mid September this year, and I will be doing a lot of shopping. Since I have been recently working and living in Egypt, I intend to buy myself a new phone and some electronics, and maybe clothes. (electronics here are too expensive and not everything is available) [more inside]
posted by convex at 4:33 AM PST - 8 comments

Should I transfer (undergrad)?

Miserable but comfortable - should I transfer? [more inside]
posted by anonymish at 4:22 AM PST - 16 comments

You can get with this, or you can get with that, or this, or that, or this, or that, or this, or that..

I am considering a big, strange career move, and I’m wondering if it is a terrible idea masquerading as a wonderful idea. Please share tips and tricks for making large decisions without second-guessing yourself into a tizzy. [more inside]
posted by troublemenot at 3:44 AM PST - 13 comments

How do you say FOIL in other languages?

How do people explain the FOIL rule of algebra in other languages? [more inside]
posted by twoleftfeet at 3:25 AM PST - 32 comments

How do I move to England in a year?

I'm a US citizen, and I'd like to move to England in about a year. [more inside]
posted by archagon at 2:10 AM PST - 14 comments

Living of savings for a couple of years

I am thinking about living off savings of about £15000 for a couple of years. How can I best manage my money? [more inside]
posted by caek at 1:17 AM PST - 9 comments

I'm not Steve Jobs (...yet). Help me find semi-dressy work shoes for an every day, active lifestyle with solid soles -- NO METAL SHANKS -- to replace my unprofessional New Balances

What brands or specific models of men's dress shoes offer a solid sole, quality materials and support that work well for active on-the-go folks? (I'm looking for kind of a running shoe in dressy disguise) [more inside]
posted by jkl345 at 1:08 AM PST - 16 comments

How harmful are low doses of Vicodin?

How harmful are low doses of Vicodin? [more inside]
posted by wireless at 12:22 AM PST - 29 comments

August 22

WE WANT THE FUNKY DISCO PLEASE

DISCO music challenge: Disco recording artist, solo guy, one (?) hit in US in 70's (I think) but big in Europe and many albums under his belt, and the recording artist name is like masterblaster or masterbox or blasterbox or something. Suggestions? [more inside]
posted by Mike Mongo at 10:40 PM PST - 12 comments

I'm looking for acoustic covers of techno songs, can you help me?

I'm looking for acoustic covers of techno songs, can you help me? Not necessarily acoustic, but using analog instruments, whether amplified or not (e.g. Clara Engel covers Born Slippy, Stance's ukulele cover of Harder Better Faster Stronger, Acoustic Instruments cover Star Guitar). Other electronic dance music genres also welcome.
posted by Kattullus at 10:37 PM PST - 34 comments

How do I get my clipboard back?

Is it possible to use GreaseMonkey to delete jQuery event bindings? [more inside]
posted by wierdo at 10:37 PM PST - 15 comments

Museum or not

Should I go for a museum studies masters or would a public history masters be a better choice instead? [more inside]
posted by miss sarah thane at 9:25 PM PST - 5 comments

Airport works, web doesn't?

Non-Mac guy w/ Mac problem. GF's Mac connected perfectly at our old house via an Airport. At new house, it "sees" the wireless network, but... [more inside]
posted by davidmsc at 8:53 PM PST - 10 comments

Are some prescription meds outlawed in Doha, too?

My mother can't fly through Dubai as a layover because she has perfectly valid prescription medications they will arrest her for if found (even just transiting). Is the same thing true of Doha? The difference in ticket prices between Doha/Dubai or somewhere else is significant.
posted by zachawry at 8:34 PM PST - 6 comments

Who is Dr. Lyle Evans?

Is Dr. Lyle Evans a real historical figure or just a made-up person in the Mad Men universe?
posted by originalname37 at 8:20 PM PST - 15 comments

How do I stop being a regular truant out of extreme shyness?

I have this terrible habit of skipping school out of social anxiety or shyness, even for the smallest reasons like not bringing an important book, arriving late or not knowing where the class is. How do I stop this and be a regular? [more inside]
posted by Senza Volto at 8:14 PM PST - 36 comments

Why am I developing all kinds of food intolerances?

I'm developing food intolerances/allergies to a variety of foods. Is there a way to stop it? Should I see an allergist? [more inside]
posted by joeyjoejoejr at 7:51 PM PST - 10 comments

Music World Tour

Take me on a music world tour - what are your favorite non-Western songs? [more inside]
posted by god particle at 7:47 PM PST - 39 comments

Should I get a master's degree?

Should I get a master's degree in mechanical engineering? What jobs could I be "overqualified" for? [more inside]
posted by nel at 7:26 PM PST - 11 comments

When he turned 34 but who's counting, he couldn't find anyone who wanted to party...

It's my 34th birthday next Sunday, and my boyfriend and I will be in a city where I don't know anyone. What are some things we can do to make it an enjoyable, special, memorable day?
posted by Hot buttered sockpuppets at 7:18 PM PST - 7 comments

(the) road ends here

Suppose that I was giving someone directions to my house that involved telling someone to take an highway or freeway. Would I be correct in telling that person to "take the 10" or "drive four miles on the 60"? I've been mercilessly mocked for inserting the "the" into those directions, but I can't find anything conclusive about the proper way to refer to it. [more inside]
posted by pecknpah at 7:02 PM PST - 77 comments

It isn't over, but it is.

I'm ending an awesome relationship because I'm moving to a different city for a much better job. How to make the best of our last few weeks together, and what's the "healthiest" level of contact to maintain? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 6:58 PM PST - 6 comments

So what if there's no seat cushion, it goes like hell!

I want to buy a fun, impractical, and unusual sports/muscle/fun car for under $5000(USD). This will be my second car, and not my daily driver. Can you offer some suggestions? (It must be available as a stick shift.) [more inside]
posted by Netzapper at 6:39 PM PST - 48 comments

Yes, I'll pay cash

Is there any way to get a gynecological exam and all the accompanying tests in NYC anonymously? I don't want to potentially screw up my soon to be acquired health insurance.
posted by itmightbecheese at 6:28 PM PST - 8 comments

Recording from hard drive of Toshiba RD X-35 to another Toshiba recorder onto disc?

How to record from Toshiba dvd player/recorder hard drive to another Toshiba dvd recorder? [more inside]
posted by ragtimepiano at 6:27 PM PST - 0 comments

Where else would I find something like the Noodle Incident?

I'm curious about the Noodle Incident as a device. [more inside]
posted by patheral at 5:56 PM PST - 56 comments

Why are there 169 starting hands in Hold 'em?

Can someone explain to me why there are 169 starting hands in poker? [more inside]
posted by tomtheblackbear at 5:35 PM PST - 17 comments

Get my cats off my table!

Our three cats are brazenly unfazed when we squirt them with water guns. They jump up on the counter tops, we squirt them, they scamper away, and then five minutes later they're back up there. What are other ways to make them fear the humans' surfaces? [more inside]
posted by zoomorphic at 5:33 PM PST - 43 comments

What was this Japanese novel?

Looking for the title of a Japanese novel that involved a cat murder. [more inside]
posted by norabarnacl3 at 4:40 PM PST - 6 comments

Neighbpr's utility lines over my yard

We recently moved into an old house. It's on a small (0.2 acre) lot that is nicely wooded. What is not so nice is that our backyard is bisected by our neighbor's utility lines which run from a pole in the back of our lots. Both our house and out neighbor's house feed off of the same utility pole. [more inside]
posted by DavidandConquer at 4:33 PM PST - 16 comments

DBAN for non-system drives?

Looking for a way to wipe (for disposal) old hard drives without swapping them into my desktop. [more inside]
posted by ApathyGirl at 4:15 PM PST - 26 comments

DIY tent upgrade - advice needed please

Our tent is OK but there's a gap between the sides and the groundsheet, which makes it rather chilly. How can I best make it more wind- and rain-proof? I think attaching a strip of some sort of waterproof material around the bottom of the sides, that could be tucked under the groundsheet, is the best option. But what sort of fabric? And how do I stop the water wicking up it from the ground and making the sides of the tent wet? [more inside]
posted by monster max at 3:50 PM PST - 7 comments

Cheaper, comparable alternative to iPod classic?

I'm looking for suggestions for an iPod alternative. My current iPod classic is getting close to the end of its life, and I'm trying to determine what my options are for replacements. Relevant details below the fold: [more inside]
posted by philosophygeek at 3:39 PM PST - 14 comments

Programs to learn on?

I'd like some program ideas to implement. [more inside]
posted by jsturgill at 3:36 PM PST - 11 comments

I Hate McAfee

I mistakenly installed some version of a McAfee update on my relatively new Dell. The McAfee subscription was included. I did not choose this thing. Any way, McAfee has taken over my Windows firewall settings and I can not edit them. At all. I tried to do it through McAfee to no avail. So I tried calling McAfee, but they wanted me to pay for support. So I deleted McAfee. Unfortunately that did not remove the hold over windows firewall. [more inside]
posted by Red58 at 3:14 PM PST - 9 comments

You're fired...?

Should we fire our newly-hired employee? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 1:34 PM PST - 35 comments

Desperately need name of late 70's Early 80's TV show!

Ok! What was the name of the show. It involved two guys, one in his late 20's, incredibly handsome, looked like the blond guy from Dukes of Hazzard only with brown hair, and he wore like a Gulliver's Travel get up, (he may have been from another time in the past) with a wine colored velvet laced up vest, billowing white shirt, and his sidekick was this super dorky teenager 14-18? and they would go on time travels together, and narrowly avoid tricky situations. It was usually shown on weekend afternoons, but it could have had a regular time slot in prime time. Racking my brain! Thanks for your help!
posted by donaldjans at 1:30 PM PST - 15 comments

How to make a 12 hour plane ride with a baby not the suckiest thing you have to go through.

Need ideas for a "flying-on-a-helluva-long-plane-ride-for-the-first-time-with-our-baby" survival kit. Ideas? [more inside]
posted by Ham_On_Rye at 1:26 PM PST - 18 comments

How much can I get for my computer?

I've got a laptop that I purchased in September 2008 that I paid $1,629 for. How much can I ask for it on Craigslist? Realistically? Ideally? Is there anything free I can do to increase its value before I sell it? [more inside]
posted by citywolf at 1:05 PM PST - 18 comments

help identify the artist of this instrumental song

Who is the artist responsible for an instrumental song called "Ballerina", released in the mid-to-late 1980s? (mp3 of the main melody included) [more inside]
posted by germdisco at 12:12 PM PST - 10 comments

Need help organizing photos and text

I have been the sole writer/editor for a small, free, newspaper for a couple of years. I have kept all original .doc files and published and unpublished photos. What I am looking for is software that will organize both pictures and text. It is easy to find organizing software for images, but not for photos and text. Does software like this even exist? Any help is appreciated.
posted by razorian at 12:11 PM PST - 9 comments

betrayed by the jumbotron

Do baseball stadiums hire performers to act like audience members to entertain the crowd on the jumbotron? [more inside]
posted by astrid at 11:18 AM PST - 27 comments

Let's hear it for Donna Jean!

Today is Donna Jean Godchaux's birthday, and I'd like to watch a great YouTube video or three that prominently feature her singing. I'm more interested in her performances with the Grateful Dead or the Jerry Garcia Band than any other bands, though if there's a particularly standout video of another I'd be glad to watch that too. Thanks in advance! [more inside]
posted by slappy_pinchbottom at 10:36 AM PST - 4 comments

Where to buy a road bike in TO?

Where should I buy a road bike in Toronto? [more inside]
posted by mrgavins at 10:20 AM PST - 8 comments

Any great books on urban anthropology? In addition, what could I do with a Deviant Behavior degree?

Any great books on urban anthropology? In addition, what could I do with a Deviant Behavior degree? [more inside]
posted by delasoull at 10:11 AM PST - 8 comments

Styleless, fine, wavy, frizzy, dull, graying hair. Help me banish the dowd without color or blow-drying.

Shortish, fine, vaguely wavy, frizzy, dull, graying hair. Unhappy with the cut, color, and texture. HATE coloring and blow-drying. Help me fix it. [more inside]
posted by moira at 9:48 AM PST - 31 comments

What to do in New Hampshire?

I am spending this upcoming weekend in New Hampshire, U.S.A.. Specifically Manchester and Concord. Is there anything specific that I should check out or do while in the area? Only in town for three days.
posted by Fizz at 9:41 AM PST - 22 comments

Dry cleaning for to-be-donated clothes?

I have some dry clean-only clothes that I want to donate. They could use a cleaning but I don't want to pay for it if I'm going to be donating them. There was a program in the DC area that let you donate clothes and a dry cleaners would clean them for free. Anyone heard of something similar in NYC?
posted by orrnyereg at 9:39 AM PST - 5 comments

Storing vintage wine

I was browsing a site the sells vintage wine last night as I was planning on purchasing a 2001 red at some point in the next year as a gift for my husband for our 10th anniversary and they just so happen to have his favourite wine at a reasonable(ish) price - I'd like to buy it now and hide it until our anniversary which is nearly a year from now. Its only 9 years old so will just keeping it in a cool dark place suffice? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:36 AM PST - 5 comments

Help, my face is on fire.

This is so embarrassing- I used hair removal cream to get rid of my moustache (I'm a female) and I left it on too long. Now I've got a screaming red moustache-shaped rash over my upper lip. It's ugly and it burns like crazy. How can I make this go away?
posted by anonymous at 9:36 AM PST - 20 comments

Ski filter: Rocky Mountain Super pass vs the Colorado pass.

Ski filter: Rocky Mountain Super + vs the Colorado pass. [more inside]
posted by no bueno at 9:25 AM PST - 7 comments

Can You Name the Artist?

Can you identify the artist who made this sculpture, which I believe to be a fountain? [more inside]
posted by Short Attention Sp at 9:21 AM PST - 3 comments

How do I avoid sweating so much under my hats?

Doctors advise me to avoid much sunlight, but I'm bald. I need some protection, and sunscreen is such a bother. I have hats, but in my Florida humidity, I sweat bucketloads up there. Was there a trick before hats became unpopular? Cowboys didn't have to mop their brows every 5 minutes, right?
posted by cmiller at 9:09 AM PST - 18 comments

suggestions for girlfriend's birthday in brussels

I am going to be in Brussels in a couple weeks on vacation with my girlfriend when it is her birthday. Does anyone have any suggestions for fun, romantic, not too expensive things to do in Brussels for her birthday (restaurants, activities, etc.)?
posted by bucksox at 8:14 AM PST - 12 comments

The Carpet is Brown, but Not That Brown

Protecting new carpet from elderly dogs [more inside]
posted by galadriel at 8:05 AM PST - 10 comments

Anyone tried bacteriotherapy?

This article in the NYT about bacteriotherapy would seem like a wonderful option to consider for someone like me, lifetime IBS sufferer, even with the obvious gross-out factor. Microbes Defend Us. Does anyone have any experience this procedure, for good or ill?
posted by PJSibling at 7:35 AM PST - 11 comments

Make 'em Laugh, Make 'em Laugh, Etc.

I'm getting crankier in my old age and I'd love to bust a gut and laugh so hard that I cry. Recommendations for short video clips that have made you go "HA!" aloud. Laugh-aloud stuff for me looks like the David Brent dance from "The Office," and Harvard Sailing Team. My kids and students thank you in advance.
posted by dzaz at 7:06 AM PST - 68 comments

Angry, hurt kitty and worried kittymom need help!

HurtKittyfilter: My cat has (as far as the vet can tell) injured a ligament in her knee. What can I do to help her? [more inside]
posted by torisaur at 5:22 AM PST - 9 comments

Film or digital for a novice?

Do you see any advantages for a photography novice in 2010 in starting out with a 35mm SLR that shoots film of the dipping-in-chemicals-in-a-darkroom variety? I'm toying with taking up photography purely for artistic/pleasure reasons, doubt I'll be taking classes, and would be spending no more than a couple hours a week on this. [more inside]
posted by cupcakeninja at 4:56 AM PST - 34 comments

looking for a log of captain cooks voyages in the form of gps coordinates(log/lat)

i am looking for a log of captain cooks voyages in the form of GPS coordinates(log/lat) or similar. like this google user generated map, but with higher resolution if possible.
posted by yosh at 2:21 AM PST - 9 comments

Can AutoHotKey close processes in Task Manager

Multi-part question: Do the various 'services' that run automatically on my computer (such as ipodservice.exe, ituneshelper.exe, adobeupdater.exe) reduce my computer performance significantly enough that it is worth switching them off in Task Manager? How might I automate that process (given that I don't have admin rights -- work laptop)? Could an AutoHotKey script close a batch of these?
posted by man down under at 12:20 AM PST - 16 comments

Walking to my car is miserable.

Help with these giant cobweb-like strands hanging from my tree! [more inside]
posted by IndigoRain at 12:01 AM PST - 7 comments

August 21

What statistical analysis can I use to test whether there is a significant difference in calendar date that an activity is undertaken by two groups?

What statistical analysis can I use to test whether there is a significant difference in calendar date that an activity is undertaken by two groups? [more inside]
posted by scrambles at 11:19 PM PST - 14 comments

How to treat a (suspected) spider bite?

So I think I got bitten by a spider two nights ago on my shin. What should I do about it, if anything? [more inside]
posted by cerebus19 at 10:35 PM PST - 14 comments

How can I make a budget we can BOTH stick to?

Our household income has been cut in half in the last six months and although we theoretically have enough money to get buy, we keep running out. We're really bad at this. Help? (details inside) [more inside]
posted by threeturtles at 10:27 PM PST - 36 comments

Mysterious.

What does this recent Onion article refer to?
posted by uni verse at 9:46 PM PST - 7 comments

apple bluetooth keyboard on windows 7

How do I get my apple wireless (bluetooth) keyboard to pair with my windows 7 Pro 64 bit machine? [more inside]
posted by Gankmore at 9:34 PM PST - 8 comments

My poor dog is limping terribly.

Please school me on different options and treatment for my dog's torn CCL. [more inside]
posted by msali at 8:56 PM PST - 12 comments

Seeing my website inside the company

Apple server gurus? I have a Mac OSX Snow Leopard server question. How to be able to view a company's externally hosted website from inside the company? [more inside]
posted by chairish at 8:49 PM PST - 8 comments

Fair shake of the sauce bottle

Why are consumer products so expensive in Australia? [more inside]
posted by kid A at 8:43 PM PST - 19 comments

Lettuce Be Honest

Do you always wash lettuce? Have you ever just torn a head of Iceberg open and used it? Or do you always wash it? [more inside]
posted by Splunge at 7:57 PM PST - 63 comments

The Horror of the Arkham Horror

The horror! I've been invited to play Arkham Horror (Dunwich i think it is) but I have never played anything like it before. The game happens tomorrow (Sunday) at Noon. It's Saturday evening right now. I'm going to read the rules from the online manual. But what else should I know? O you monster slaying mofos of MeFi, help me get some mojo before my ass gets grassed. [more inside]
posted by storybored at 7:56 PM PST - 13 comments

take it apart

What are some blogs/posts/videos that deconstruct the production of specific songs? [more inside]
posted by threeants at 7:46 PM PST - 9 comments

Resources for helping family deal with divorce

My brother's wife is leaving him, and it is hitting the whole extended family hard. None of us seem to know how to support him or how to deal with the depression that has resulted. Can anyone point us towards resources like books or websites to help this close extended family deal with this painful time and learn to support him and the young kids?
posted by anonymous at 7:41 PM PST - 3 comments

PhD at a Distance: Resources Please?

PhD at a distance: I want to earn a PhD, but because of family commitments and work, I'm unable to attend a school in person. Some resources please... [more inside]
posted by Zinger at 7:33 PM PST - 48 comments

To Hayling and beyond.

I really, really love "Hayling" by FC Kahuna. Please suggest some other specific songs I might also like. [more inside]
posted by 4ster at 7:20 PM PST - 17 comments

Sites for teenagers?

Online communities for a young person, canhascheezburger style? My son is twelve (and a half) and I'm looking to guide him towards slightly more adult sites without dropping him into a pit of voles. [more inside]
posted by shinybaum at 7:15 PM PST - 29 comments

How do I stop the tears from flowing?

How do you handle crying when you're actually raging to kill someone inside? [more inside]
posted by astapasta24 at 7:07 PM PST - 23 comments

Please Help Me Find Good Computers for My Two 7th Grade Boys

My two boys, both starting 7th grade in a couple of weeks, need computers...laptop or smaller? Smaller relates to cost? [more inside]
posted by snsranch at 6:29 PM PST - 27 comments

What's the best way to edit video from my Kodak zi8?

I have a Kodak Zi8 mini camcorder, which shoots HD footage in Quicktime format. I'm having difficulty editing the video afterwards. Can you help? [more inside]
posted by hot soup girl at 6:15 PM PST - 6 comments

How do you handle the silent fade away from a person you spoke with for hours a day?

How do you handle the silent fade away from a person you spoke with for hours a day? [more inside]
posted by boostershot at 5:32 PM PST - 17 comments

What's with my oven?

Help. My electric oven just went crazy! [more inside]
posted by Wordwoman at 5:07 PM PST - 6 comments

Is it normal to have better vision in contact lens than glasses?

Is it normal to have better vision in contact lens than glasses? [more inside]
posted by pravit at 4:50 PM PST - 17 comments

Pimp my suit

How to dress up a suit got a black-tie-optional event? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:48 PM PST - 9 comments

Can you help me create the definitive Columbo drinking game?

Can you help me create the definitive Columbo drinking game? [more inside]
posted by Spamfactor at 4:40 PM PST - 9 comments

Yes, I just want to make everyone jealous.

I'm taking my Canon G11 on a sailing vacation in the Greek islands. I expect lots of blue sky, brilliant sun, and light reflecting off the water. I've never used any kind of filter before, but should I consider it this time? If so, what do I need to know to make a filter work with my camera? Is a circular polarizer the best way to go or are there other filters to consider? [more inside]
posted by cabingirl at 4:26 PM PST - 9 comments

What's the catch in these email scams?

What's the scam in these responses to a craigslist ad I posted? [more inside]
posted by gally99 at 4:19 PM PST - 14 comments

Customized Money Orders

Is there an online source for bulk, customized money orders in small USD denominations? [more inside]
posted by quarantine at 4:08 PM PST - 0 comments

Book recommendation?

Can you recommend a self-help book for dealing with friendship breakup/betrayal issues? I have found some books for dealing with marital infidelity, which I am not concerned with.
posted by Mr. Justice at 3:57 PM PST - 4 comments

Vintage find, so vintage there's no info.

I picked up a set of old headphones today at a yard sale for the princely sum of $1. They are Mura Sp-302. I can't seem to find any information about them via googling. [more inside]
posted by azpenguin at 3:55 PM PST - 1 comment

Another depressed person...

How do you deal with intractable depression? [more inside]
posted by wandering_not_lost at 3:34 PM PST - 29 comments

Origin of Car Keys

What's the origin and history (first make/model, etc.) of auto ignition keys?
posted by NotMyselfRightNow at 3:20 PM PST - 4 comments

Eeeeeeeeeeek! What's this bug?

Help me identify this creepy crawly in my kitchen cabinets :( [more inside]
posted by Salvor Hardin at 3:15 PM PST - 23 comments

Are my close friends clouding my relationship judgement? Also, guilt of breakup.

Did my friends influence my choice to break up with my girlfriend too much? [more inside]
posted by Evernix at 3:11 PM PST - 20 comments

Rewiring a warehouse lamp

How to rewire a warehouse lamp? [more inside]
posted by Sreiny at 3:06 PM PST - 7 comments

Blue forty-two, hutt hutt!

I want to be an NFL football fan again. What should I be reading? [more inside]
posted by boubelium at 2:56 PM PST - 15 comments

Options for cleaning with allergies?

I'm an ex-ish packrat trying to go through all my old boxes of junk to sort and destroy. The problem is that touching these boxes starts off what seem to be vicious allergies of the streaming nose, explosive sneezing, and itchy eyes variety. [more inside]
posted by L'Estrange Fruit at 2:07 PM PST - 10 comments

Painting kitchen chairs?

Should we sand down some wooden kitchen chairs that have a natural finish before repainting them? [more inside]
posted by kraigory at 1:47 PM PST - 10 comments

How do I find an obscure WWII technical manual?

I recently inherited a 1940s era communications receiver from the estate of my great-uncle. It is a Hallicrafters S-39 Sky Ranger, and I want to restore it so it can be used safely again. I was able to find the manual that originally came with it on BAMA (The Boat Anchor Manual Archive), but it was also used by the US Military during WWII, and there is a govt service manual for it. It was an R80 to the military, and the manual is PB48233, but that is as far as I have been able to get. How do I locate someplace that has a copy of this technical manual so I can get a copy made from it?
posted by ackptui at 1:30 PM PST - 9 comments

How can I get my stuff from Ontario to BC without flying back myself?

What are my options for shipping my stuff from Ontario to Vancouver? [more inside]
posted by sarastro at 1:25 PM PST - 4 comments

Cathy comic involving dishwasher

Where can I find a list of Cathy comic strips involving her, Irving and the dishwasher? [more inside]
posted by acoutu at 1:10 PM PST - 6 comments

Investment for this Dummy.

I have $1000 to invest and I'd like to do it wisely. One problem: I have never invested any amount of money in anything. Ever. Where should I start? [more inside]
posted by Kitteh at 12:55 PM PST - 21 comments

She usually barfs on the tile.

How to remove vomit from a silk carpet? [more inside]
posted by TrixieRamble at 12:25 PM PST - 1 comment

Who drew this logo?

Trying to figure out who designed logo for the RAF. I really dig the design. It mentions that Baader paid a designer to draw it, but I can't find a single mention of his name. Any help would be greatly appreciated. [more inside]
posted by thsmchnekllsfascists at 12:22 PM PST - 2 comments

Tonerite for acoustic guitar substitute?

I have been thinking about getting a tonerite for guitar. I have no doubt that they work, but don't really wanna spend $150.00. I am trying to think of a less expensive, but suitable substitute that will vibrate the instrument in the same way. I am thinking an aquarium aerator with its tiny motor may fit the bill. Tell me how wrong I am and why. Any other ideas for a sub for the tonerite?
posted by wsg at 12:16 PM PST - 12 comments

Accidentally made an imprint on to my pan

How would you clean off an imprint of a towel on a stainless steel pan? [more inside]
posted by tksh at 11:41 AM PST - 9 comments

Good reasonably priced upholsterer near Philly?

Anyone know a good, reasonably priced upholsterer near Philadelphia? [more inside]
posted by ubermuffin at 11:26 AM PST - 2 comments

How do I deal with a difficult customer?

Help me work with a difficult customer. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 11:24 AM PST - 13 comments

Fixing eye-glare in Photoshop

Anyone know of a really good tutorial for fixing the glare in animal eyes in Photoshop? [more inside]
posted by Caravantea at 11:21 AM PST - 2 comments

Tape measure that reads from both sides?

I'm looking for a tape measure that has two sets of numbers such that the numbers can be read right side up from either side of the tape. Stanley used to make such a tape years ago, but I can't find one now.
posted by Jackson at 11:12 AM PST - 5 comments

This sketch is eluding me on about 9 levels

Comedy sketch filter. I'm trying to identify an American TV musical comedy sketch in which a man says something like "X is a whole lot easier to be around now that she's getting it regularly" and a woman responds, "Do you know that that offends me on about 9 different levels?" and then goes into a big musical number explaining the levels. [more inside]
posted by Jasper Fnorde at 10:51 AM PST - 2 comments

Boston is the home of the four letter word that means rock, WBCN

WBCN Boston Montage. I'm having a hard time identifying a couple of the songs that mention Boston in the old WBCN bumper they used to run (back when WBCN was actually in Boston). I have a YouTube clip and a list of songs in the extended... [more inside]
posted by inthe80s at 10:25 AM PST - 26 comments

Learning to type

Do you know of a free, online typing game that works for a kid who mostly knows the keyboard but is still very slow? [more inside]
posted by serazin at 10:20 AM PST - 10 comments

Collecting on a Debt

Collecting money from a rogue client. Trying to be specific with information but vague with details. Desperately seeking advice. Let's get this out of the way: you are not my lawyer. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:45 AM PST - 9 comments

Should I Worry About Mom's Medical Problem

My mother has had blood in her urine (without pain) for the past 5 days. She's doing all the right things (doctor, kidney function test, next doctor on Monday) but everyone seems to be minimizing the situation. Help me face whatever's coming. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:45 AM PST - 11 comments

nutritionist in Boston?

Can anyone recommend a nutritionist in the Boston area, within walking distance of a T stop or rail stop? [more inside]
posted by Countess Elena at 9:39 AM PST - 5 comments

Stopping the inner crazy

How do I stop worrying that history will repeat itself in regards to my relationship? [more inside]
posted by daysocks at 9:33 AM PST - 16 comments

Recommend me a used (musical) keyboard.

What's a good, inexpensive (>$200) digital keyboard/synthesizer for a low-intermediate level player? Used preferred. [more inside]
posted by matkline at 9:17 AM PST - 6 comments

Need help solving a zip archive timestamp & GNU make interaction problem on Linux, MacOSX, and other systems.

We ran into the following conundrum while distributing source code for some open-source software we produce. Our code is pretty straightforward C++ stuff with makefiles designed for GNU make. We distribute the package as a zip archive. Works on most systems (Linux, Windows, MacOS, FreeBSD and others). Now, zip stores and unzip restores the file timestamps. Problem is, if someone downloads the archive in an earlier time zone than the one in which it was produced, the unarchived files have a timestamp in the future. [more inside]
posted by StrawberryPie at 8:53 AM PST - 14 comments

How do I find this music website that's stuck in my head?

What is the URL of the music site I am thinking of? [more inside]
posted by Gin and Comics at 8:46 AM PST - 8 comments

Video game recommendation for a lover of Halo, please!

I like the video game Halo: Combat Evolved and have played it off and on for several years, both single player and multi player mode. I would like another video to game to play that is similar to the campaign Halo: CE, but in very specific ways, but is not Halo 2 or Halo 3. [more inside]
posted by nomadicink at 8:28 AM PST - 13 comments

Help me find this illustration!

Tattoo time! I need help tracking down the artist or book that this illustration is from. Bonus question about what to tip my tattoo artist/bff. [more inside]
posted by a.steele at 8:09 AM PST - 5 comments

My friend's husband can't attend a wedding with her tonight. Is it crass for me to go in his place?

Weddingfilter: A friend has asked me to attend a wedding with her in her husband's stead. I don't really know the couple getting marrried. Yay or nay? [more inside]
posted by pecanpies at 8:06 AM PST - 44 comments

Mac Alternatives to Phrase Express?

Phrase Express alternatives for Mac. Bonus point for FLOSS. [more inside]
posted by RockyChrysler at 7:29 AM PST - 3 comments

Didn't get an invite to my high school reunion

Why do I care about not being invited to a high school reunion I wouldn't have wanted to go in the first place? Do I have too much time on my hands this morning? [more inside]
posted by braemar at 7:24 AM PST - 21 comments

Seattle Productions

What are some production companies in Seattle? [more inside]
posted by Unred at 7:04 AM PST - 2 comments

nuke it from orbit

How to scrub a carpeted rental apartment of cat residue? [more inside]
posted by gerryblog at 5:54 AM PST - 10 comments

Eggs, why do you taunt me so?

Why do eggs give me a stomachache...but only sometimes? [more inside]
posted by the_blizz at 1:54 AM PST - 18 comments

What could be wrong with my elderly, non-cooling fridge?

I just discovered that my fairly elderly refrigerator and freezer have stopped cooling. What is most likely to be wrong, and is it worth it to attempt to fix it? [more inside]
posted by charmedimsure at 1:40 AM PST - 10 comments

What is Fry filming?

What is Stephen Fry filming in New Orleans this weekend? He tweeted twice about coming here, first saying he will be filming all day and again two hours ago that he is off to the airport.
posted by Anitanola at 1:10 AM PST - 2 comments

August 20

Between points A and B

Subways, highways, airports, train stations. Is there a catchall name for places that people only go because they want to go somewhere else? The closest I've come is 'interstitial zone' but that doesn't seem quite right.
posted by cmyk at 11:34 PM PST - 28 comments

Help a fat girl have a relationship with in-laws who hate fat

How to improve relationship with disapproving future in-laws: My boyfriend and I have been together for a bit more than two years, and we’ve been living together for a year and a half. We are both in our mid- to late-twenties. Our relationship is strong, and really, it is not at issue. The problem comes in with his parents. [more inside]
posted by redfishbluefish at 11:06 PM PST - 26 comments

Please Help Me Help My Dog.

Family dog has cancerous lump on leg, vet says surgery might be enough to cure it (20% chance of recurrence). So what can we do to 1) help minimize the stress of surgery and 2) strengthen his immune system and general health, to increase his odds? So far I've gotten "all raw foods" and "no corn or soy it's all GMO" but neither of these folks actually have dogs. I'd like to hear from the dog-owning hivemind about this.
posted by kestralwing at 10:59 PM PST - 8 comments

Not dangerous, but not hokey either

I'm thinking about crashing the local Zombie Walk tomorrow as a survivor. What should I bring as a "weapon"? [more inside]
posted by ODiV at 10:49 PM PST - 26 comments

rankings, year in and year out

Is it possible to compare USNews college rankings over several years? [more inside]
posted by ladypants at 9:55 PM PST - 8 comments

Looking for help with a circa 1996 IBM Think Pad

I have acquired an old IBM Thinkpad Type 9547 and I am having a difficult time figuring out it's place in the IBM timeline as well as it's specifications. [more inside]
posted by will wait 4 tanjents at 9:34 PM PST - 12 comments

Are my bar end shifter and derailler fighting each other?

Are my bar end shifter and dura-ace rear derailler fighting? Bike question on indexed drivetrain parts lies herein. [more inside]
posted by brandoniain at 9:24 PM PST - 15 comments

XC skiing lessons for the family

Do you know of any intensive week-long lessons in cross-country skiing available in North America? I'd be especially happy to find a resort that offers a kids' program in XC skiing too. [more inside]
posted by Capri at 8:45 PM PST - 4 comments

Homemade skin-care for the itchy

What resources would you recommend for making lotions, cosmetics, etc., for super-sensitive skin? [more inside]
posted by WorkingMyWayHome at 7:52 PM PST - 13 comments

What to do about slanderous comments?

What can I do about someone from my past writing slanderous things about me online? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:30 PM PST - 14 comments

Help a diabetic

My husband suffers from what appears to be diabetic neuropathy pain in both feet and one hand. Could this be caused by something else? What can we do to make it more bearable? [more inside]
posted by fifilaru at 7:26 PM PST - 9 comments

da da DA da da dun dun: GO PACK GO

Wisconsinite cheesehead transplanted into central Texas. I need to watch every Packers game. Help me. [more inside]
posted by King Bee at 7:02 PM PST - 7 comments

42" TV as monitor: good idea?

I'm considering buying a 42" television to use as a computer monitor. I'm not sure whether I'd (a) put it across the room from me, (b) put it directly in front of my face, or (c) be better advised to give it a pass. Your advice? [more inside]
posted by foursentences at 6:57 PM PST - 25 comments

Portland Riverview?

Portland Filter: Why no good riverside restaurants or bars here in Stumptown? [more inside]
posted by bmosher at 6:54 PM PST - 5 comments

Mind the lady fingers

Erotic/tasteless humor cake design suggestions for an engagement cake? Let's hear 'em. [more inside]
posted by benzenedream at 6:52 PM PST - 19 comments

How to list GPA on applications

I am filling out graduate school applications and I was wondering if anyone knew the proper etiquette on how to list a GPA for a student that has attended multiple institutions. [more inside]
posted by Carnifex at 6:51 PM PST - 6 comments

They went to a bad place

So, we loaned our "spare" computer to our neighbor and it came back infected... [more inside]
posted by Old Geezer at 6:25 PM PST - 28 comments

Taking AdWords personally?

As an artist or small business owner, how would you feel if someone used your name to keyword their Google AdWords ad? [more inside]
posted by infinitefloatingbrains at 5:35 PM PST - 21 comments

How to get over not looking however it is I'm supposed to?

My boyfriend said he would prefer that I look different; then he said he didn't; how do I reconcile this and move on? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:05 PM PST - 54 comments

Recumbent exercise bike saddle sore?

Recumbent exercise bike users: do you still get a sore butt? [more inside]
posted by baking soda at 5:01 PM PST - 6 comments

Help me find this "skeptic Marxist"

Help me find the name of this "Marxist Sceptic" thinker. I remember reading on aldaily.com within the last few months about a Marxist thinker who essentially came to the conclusion that though desirable, no socialist system of government would exist in the immediate future. I'm not sure if it was an obituary or something else.
posted by atrazine at 4:53 PM PST - 3 comments

I just want to make my own choices!

Atheist and (closet) atheist couple. Parents want a catholic wedding and lots more hassle from us. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:41 PM PST - 44 comments

Engaged with wandering eyes

Engaged but infatuated with someone else. Does this actually mean anything? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:41 PM PST - 24 comments

How to get immediate notification of Craiglist posts with a filter?

What is the best way to monitor/notify myself of new Craigslist listings for housing? [more inside]
posted by mikeand1 at 4:36 PM PST - 18 comments

Men's boots for suits?

Men's boots for suits? I am thinking of buying a pair of ankle or shin-high boots to wear and I want to know about pairing boots with suits. I would rather wear lace-ups than have a zip or a stretch band.
posted by parmanparman at 4:28 PM PST - 9 comments

How Can I Make a VMWare VM from a Laptop Using SEE?

How might I be able to make a VMWare VM for Fusion Desktop using the VMWare converter with a WinXP laptop protected by Symantec Endpoint Encryption? The VM I made using default settings crashes at the point I'm entering my SEE credentials with a memory error.
posted by mph at 4:21 PM PST - 1 comment

What's this piece of contemporary piano music?

Can anyone identify the music in the Nokia ad? [more inside]
posted by essexjan at 4:18 PM PST - 3 comments

Ensemble films to watch together

Please suggest ensemble films in which several separate storylines each explore various angles of the same theme, and some characters from different plotlines connect in unexpected ways. Love Actually is a perfect example of what I'm looking for. [more inside]
posted by pseudostrabismus at 3:58 PM PST - 48 comments

It's my best friend. Always happy. No questions.

I'm looking for examples in movies and television where a character cares for a particular house plant as a symbolic plot element or to show another side to the character. [more inside]
posted by Zen unicorn rainbow zen journal at 3:57 PM PST - 25 comments

iphones and web traffic

If I visit a website on my iPhone, and the site owner uses Google Analytics or similar, what if anything can they tell about me? [more inside]
posted by peep at 3:44 PM PST - 10 comments

A Roomba may not injure a human being or, through inaction, allow a human being to come to harm.

It's Roomba recommendation time again! [more inside]
posted by infinitewindow at 3:04 PM PST - 4 comments

Paralegals: how do they work?

Should I become a paralegal? [more inside]
posted by inturnaround at 2:33 PM PST - 14 comments

massage therapist in dc or maryland?

i'm looking for a great massage therapist in dc/maryland. [more inside]
posted by anya32 at 2:28 PM PST - 1 comment

Hover/Mouseover CSS/html question.

Can I change the mouseover qualities (the way mouseover/hover text is displayed) with CSS? [more inside]
posted by Tchad at 2:20 PM PST - 6 comments

San Francisco Bridge shaped t-shirt from Runaways

I'm looking for a copy of the shirt dakota fanning wears in the runaways with the words San Francisco written in the shape of the bridge. Anyone know where I can get the shirt or a copy of the logo itself? Here's my attempt at linking to the image http://imgur.com/mtYit.png
posted by royalchinook at 2:18 PM PST - 4 comments

What's the best Google Reader app for the iPad?

I'm looking for the best Google Reader app for the iPad. I'm will to pay if it's worth it. Any suggestions?
posted by ctreadwell at 2:15 PM PST - 10 comments

Is it wrong to follow/friend a job applicant?

I'm hiring, and in addition to interviewing, checking references (official and un-), etc., I'd like to see how candidates are using Twitter, Facebook, and/or Tumblr. Facility with this stuff isn't a primary requirement of the job, but it's helpful; I also think it's a good way to gauge a candidate's judgement and to see how they manage their public face. On the other hand, it feels like following or friending is weird, or possibly an invasion of privacy. Is it?
posted by janet lynn at 1:46 PM PST - 42 comments

stretch!

My ideal resource would be some sort of book or DVD akin to "Gentle Stretching for Old Fat People". Any recommendations? [more inside]
posted by gaspode at 1:34 PM PST - 6 comments

Kauai in a week!

Looking for non-lonelyplanet activities to do in early October in Kauai. [more inside]
posted by furnace.heart at 1:34 PM PST - 3 comments

How do I assess the page rank of an entire site?

I'd like to capture the PageRank of every page that's part of a single, large site (~5000 pages), preferably as a .csv covering page title, URL and PageRank. Is there a reliable service, free or pay, that does that?
posted by boombot at 1:29 PM PST - 3 comments

Wheat as an allergen catalyst?

I don't seem to be allergic to wheat, but eating wheat makes me allergic to many other things, including uncooked fruits, nuts and vegetables (except citrus), general seasonal allergies, animals, etc. When I stop eating wheat, my allergies to ALL of these things go away. It's crazy. Why does this happen? [more inside]
posted by scrutiny at 12:59 PM PST - 13 comments

iPod NYTimes app or Kindle NYTimes subscription?

Cost aside, should I swap an iPod Touch + NYTimes app with a Kindle + NYTimes subscription? My iPod Touch is too distracting; a Kindle would be less so. On the other hand, I love the free NYT app. [more inside]
posted by BungaDunga at 11:37 AM PST - 9 comments

Nutritional recipe calculator and meal planning software for Mac

Seeking recommendations for recipe calculator, nutrition analysis, and meal planning software for Mac. Snowflakeness inside. [more inside]
posted by fontophilic at 11:15 AM PST - 8 comments

Pay off mortgage early in tough economy?

If we have 30K in savings, and owe 200000 on a new house with 5% interest, do we want to put 10K of that into our 30 year mortgage as an early payment? Complicated by my feelings about the economy... [more inside]
posted by The ____ of Justice at 11:14 AM PST - 31 comments

Minds, How Do They Work?

What's the best book to provide an up-to-date view on our current understanding of the human mind (and brain)? [more inside]
posted by justkevin at 10:59 AM PST - 12 comments

It's ALIVE! and it thinks (coding DNA and Neural Nets for fun)

Amateur coder looking to make a "toy" Neural Net and also genetic/phenotypic DNA evolution/breeding system for a "virtual pet" game. Any tools that can make this approachable for me, preferably in Python? [more inside]
posted by DetonatedManiac at 10:52 AM PST - 7 comments

How can I get the cable company to ease on down the road?

Is there anything I can do to attempt to persuade the cable company (Charter in my case) to run service to my house? [more inside]
posted by cmm at 10:51 AM PST - 10 comments

How to throw fundraiser for cancer patient?

My mom has cancer. Her sisters are throwing a fundraiser to offset her medical bills and pay for a trip. Please help me understand their obligation to donors and the powers that be. [more inside]
posted by fyrebelley at 10:33 AM PST - 7 comments

Noisy wall

What are the possible causes of this noise in my wall? [more inside]
posted by skinnydipp at 10:20 AM PST - 11 comments

Does the brain compensate for the loss of a sense?

Is there any science behind the myth that if an individual loses one sense, the brain compensates by increasing the accuracy of the others?
posted by modernnomad at 10:17 AM PST - 15 comments

Life stinks, I'd like to change it.

I should probably talk to a therapist, but what can I do ON MY OWN regarding general distaste for my life complicated by apathetic depression? Wall of text inside. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:59 AM PST - 19 comments

How to be anonymous on the internet?

What's the best way to start an anonymous correspondence with someone? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:59 AM PST - 18 comments

Portland, Chicago, or Austin?

Should I move to Portland, OR; Chicago, or Austin? Or somewhere I haven't thought of? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:58 AM PST - 43 comments

Help me set up a really easy proxy server from an old desktop/laptop!

How can I build a laptop/desktop into a proxy server so I can access websites, Youtube, Facebook, download files no matter where I am? (Win XP box preferably) [more inside]
posted by PetiePal at 9:57 AM PST - 9 comments

What Not To Wear, Jewelry Edition?

I think I'm good on the clothing part, but what I've never been able to do is figure out accessories. Help? [more inside]
posted by sillymama at 9:47 AM PST - 17 comments

Help me keep these new Diesel shoes awesome forever and ever

Help me keep these new Diesel shoes awesome forever and ever [more inside]
posted by Senor Cardgage at 9:44 AM PST - 6 comments

Apple flambe!

Asking for a friend: What is the best cooling station for a Macbook (13", not Pro)? [more inside]
posted by allkindsoftime at 9:40 AM PST - 3 comments

Stop me if I'm making a viewing mistake!

Red Riding Trilogy Viewing Filter: Only parts 2 and 3 are available for instant viewing on Netflix, and I am tempted to watch them tonight before viewing part 1. Am I making a mistake, or is it okay to pick up a third of the way through and just watch part 1 when it's released?
posted by knmr76 at 8:59 AM PST - 7 comments

This afternoon in midtown manhattan

What interesting thing can I do this afternoon in midtown Manhattan (with airlines cabin baggage)? [more inside]
posted by justlooking at 8:43 AM PST - 14 comments

A Southern Californian Painter of Trains

Please help me find information on Svenningsen, a Southern Californian painter who favored trains, active in the 70s. [more inside]
posted by jocelmeow at 8:43 AM PST - 11 comments

“Canada is the essence of not being. Not English, not American, it is the mathematic of not being. And a subtle flavour - we're more like celery as a flavour”

Canadian Immigration Question. How best to assure that I acquire permanent residency in Canada by the time I graduate? [more inside]
posted by vegetableman at 8:37 AM PST - 4 comments

What happened to my water supply line?

Bizarro-world clog? The water tank on a guest room toilet no longer fills at all; all other water in the house is fully operational. Supply valve appears to be fully functional (and wide open). Thoughts? [more inside]
posted by aramaic at 8:34 AM PST - 10 comments

Repurposing a kitchen cart as a vanity

Can this kitchen cart be repurposed as a bathroom vanity by people who aren't very handy? We want to use it for a vessel sink and can't find any vanities in our price range in this finish/color of wood. [more inside]
posted by FormerMermaid at 8:27 AM PST - 11 comments

Searching for anniversary Dr. Pepper in Chicago

Searching for Anniversary Dr. Pepper in Chicago. [more inside]
posted by mike_bling at 8:24 AM PST - 9 comments

UPS runtime

UPS/Battery backup question - I need a battery backup power source that will last as long as possible. My load is only 30w, so I understand that even a small UPS will power it ok - but I need to maximize the time that the UPS will continue to keep it going. [more inside]
posted by Xhris at 8:10 AM PST - 8 comments

Suspension of Disbelief - How Can I do this?

Suspension of Disbelief - How come some can do it and others can't? Why can't I? [more inside]
posted by KogeLiz at 8:04 AM PST - 58 comments

Oh baby!

Please suggest good locations for hosting a baby shower in the Ashburn, VA area. [more inside]
posted by sickinthehead at 7:54 AM PST - 2 comments

It's a series of tubes, right?

What is something useful that I can do through the internet that I'm probably not already doing? [more inside]
posted by karminai at 7:44 AM PST - 26 comments

Necessitamos cantas en Espanol, por favor!

There's been some great questions on children's music before, but I'm looking for a twist... Kids music in Spanish. [more inside]
posted by katers890 at 7:41 AM PST - 12 comments

What wedding gift for the couple that has everything?

What wedding gift do I get for a very rich couple? [more inside]
posted by r_nebblesworthII at 7:09 AM PST - 27 comments

But low cholesterol is good, right?

What should I do about a reported low HDL and high LDL/HDL ratio? [more inside]
posted by garlic at 6:45 AM PST - 19 comments

What are good enrichment programs / opportunities for Canadian high school students?

What are good enrichment programs for Canadian high school students? [more inside]
posted by perpetualstroll at 6:40 AM PST - 1 comment

Cycling music playlist

Music-playlist-filter. An attempt at the world 24 hour record for producing electricity by cycling needs a soundtrack. Can you suggest some appropriate music? I'm thinking cycling, electricity, endurance would all be good themes, but any other related themes would be welcomed too.
posted by Jakey at 6:21 AM PST - 21 comments

Playing music in the 21st Century

Playing music in the 21st Century - help me with mp3 players, HDD media players and internet radio. [more inside]
posted by ninebelow at 6:19 AM PST - 9 comments

Windows on a Mac for gaming?

I'd like to know your opinions and recommendations on running Parallels or VMWare when I upgrade to my future MacBook Pro for relatively light Windows gaming. [more inside]
posted by jeff-o-matic at 6:04 AM PST - 14 comments

Nerds Ruminating Upon Nerds

Please recommend some TV shows and other forms of storytelling that are in a very specific and possibly just now emerging genre? [more inside]
posted by Mizu at 5:35 AM PST - 18 comments

AI or BS??

So what's the deal with Ray Kurzweil? [more inside]
posted by dfriedman at 4:30 AM PST - 17 comments

multitasking: why can't I?

multitasking: am I the only one who can't? [more inside]
posted by davidjohnfox at 3:22 AM PST - 22 comments

Brands getting desparate?

In London, Barclays Bank has sponsored the public cycle hire scheme. Any other recent examples of a big brand sponsoring something seemingly unrelated? [more inside]
posted by Marzipan at 3:08 AM PST - 17 comments

Google is dangerous

My sister has a stalker and there is information about her online that she cannot remove. Help! [more inside]
posted by alternateuniverse at 2:59 AM PST - 39 comments

Holey Marble!

How do you chemically carve a hole in a piece of marble or granite? [more inside]
posted by howiamdifferent at 2:34 AM PST - 18 comments

Why does my laptop crash when watching streaming videos?

Why does my laptop crash after watching streaming videos (BBC iplayer / Youtube) for about 40 minutes? How would I go about investigating / fixing it? [more inside]
posted by mairuzu at 2:24 AM PST - 8 comments

August 19

Hit it off with a complete stranger...should I ask him out?

How do you (a girl) ask a complete stranger out after one great conversation? Guys out there...need advice mostly from you...how do you take being asked out by a cute, bubbly, intelligent, financially independent girl? [more inside]
posted by penguingrl at 11:59 PM PST - 64 comments

Is peroxide an okay option for people with ear tubes?

ENT-filter: Question about following my doctor's too vague instructions about treating a clogged up ear tube (in an adult ear that had a myringotomy + ear tube inserted three weeks ago) with hydrogen peroxide. I would especially like to hear from doctors and/or people who have had myringotomies and/or tubes. [more inside]
posted by Mael Oui at 11:58 PM PST - 7 comments

Econ Filter - Housing prices vs. interest rates.

Econ Filter - Housing prices vs. interest rates. [more inside]
posted by sisquoc15 at 11:32 PM PST - 6 comments

You know how some southern gentlemen kept wearing their Confederate uniforms? not like that.

Help me make my science-fiction story more realistic: what kind of mistakes might give away a bunch of born-and-bred military types trying to go undercover as civilians? Or, if you had military experience, what habits did you have to unlearn/relearn after discharge, that might be confusing or difficult if you hadn't had a civilian life previously and your off-duty time was much more regimented? [more inside]
posted by d. z. wang at 10:06 PM PST - 62 comments

Need to cut the cable! Mac Mini?

We want to replace our cable TV with a Mac Mini. We watch mostly documentaries, cooking shows and cartoons. She loves cheesy horror movies, and I love baseball and pro football. Apart from Netflix, what do we need to live cable-free?
posted by Slap*Happy at 9:45 PM PST - 11 comments

Washington D.C. Trip

Planning a trip in mid/late december to Washington D.C. and am not sure what sort of clothing/essentials should be taken with me; as I've never been there before. Your help is appreciated.
posted by nygma2001 at 9:34 PM PST - 11 comments

Help; we can't breathe!

What are our legal options for relief from a neighbor's constant, extreme cologne when we have a severe, documented medical response? [more inside]
posted by tangram1 at 9:11 PM PST - 33 comments

Traveling in Nagano Japan in November

We're looking for advice surrounding travel in the Nagano area in Japan during the second week of November. We have an itinerary planned, we just want to know if it's realistic and what we can expect in terms of weather and travel. We're also interested in accommodation and food suggestions. [more inside]
posted by Deathalicious at 9:08 PM PST - 3 comments

How do I get more motivation to code outside of class?

I'm lacking motivation to code outside of programming classes... I enjoy the classes a lot, but when it comes to coding outside of class, I get stuck on what I want to code or what kind of projects to contribute to. [more inside]
posted by RaDeuX at 9:07 PM PST - 11 comments

Who the fuck is Eminem, anyway?

What rap/hip hop music should a very un-hip fella start by listening to? [more inside]
posted by YamwotIam at 9:01 PM PST - 62 comments

I want to make an External HDD a NAS and a DAS. But How?

Is there any way I can connect my External USB hard drive to my PS3 non-wirelessly while still sharing it wirelessly with other devices (iPad, iPod and other PCs in my house) using an Airport Extreme and a 4 port USB hub? I have a gut feeling that there must be a way to do this but I can't actually work out a real world way to do this. I accept I may potentially need to buy a new cable or two but I can live with that. Any ideas? [more inside]
posted by Effigy2000 at 8:41 PM PST - 7 comments

Mid-Atlantic lakeshore campsite recommendations?

Does anyone have any recommendations for fall car-camping spots on a lake in the mid-Atlantic/northeast region? Bonus points for dark sky areas. [more inside]
posted by ruwan at 8:18 PM PST - 6 comments

Waiting is the hardest part

Thanks to the suggestions in this post I have decided that I need to tell a fantastic guy that I really like him. Yay! Problem? He's leaving for a week and my anxiety is going to drive me nuts. [more inside]
posted by littlesq at 8:10 PM PST - 12 comments

You don't know me?

I have a fear that people will perceive my intentions as the exact opposite of what they really are. I'm scared the people who I feel friendly towards will perceive me as hostile, rude, or uncaring. I worry that those I love the most will think I don't care. What the heck is my problem? And what can I do to straighten myself out? [more inside]
posted by chocolatemilkshakes at 8:00 PM PST - 8 comments

Help me fix my faucet

Fixing my faucet: I'm trying to fix a leaky faucet, but I can't disassemble the handle. There's a picture inside. Any advice on what to do, or which forums to post to for advice, would be much appreciated! [more inside]
posted by surenoproblem at 7:51 PM PST - 15 comments

Help, I need a lift.

Medical filter: I have insurance but it will not cover a mobility device that I require. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:31 PM PST - 8 comments

I like it. I want to put a ring on it. Halp.

I need help finding where to buy a sapphire engagement ring! [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:31 PM PST - 31 comments

Help me, help her, help me be the best husband I can be!

How do you work out reciprocation in your marriage/partnership/relationship? [more inside]
posted by TheBones at 7:16 PM PST - 30 comments

Hebrew music?

I'm looking for Israeli music and/or music in Hebrew. [more inside]
posted by lhude sing cuccu at 7:14 PM PST - 12 comments

Help me communicate clearly!

Help me become more articulate...at work.... [more inside]
posted by dmbfan93 at 7:02 PM PST - 9 comments

Dreams vs Responsibility: How can I balance my life?

How can I become a responsible adult without getting my dreams lost in the process? Can they be one and the same? [more inside]
posted by vienaragis at 6:29 PM PST - 14 comments

My sister has Michael Scott syndrome! What can I do?

What do I do about an attention-hungry relative? I am worried about how she will act at an upcoming funeral! [more inside]
posted by hellameangirl at 6:22 PM PST - 15 comments

Not even creative enough to come up with a title

How do I become more creative? [more inside]
posted by unannihilated at 6:19 PM PST - 6 comments

Name This Baby

What should we name this unborn person (gender unknown)? [more inside]
posted by rabidsegue at 6:08 PM PST - 54 comments

Three hundred fifty miles and a mule.

What is the least expensive way to move one's belongings and furniture one-way, 340 miles in-state? [more inside]
posted by cgomez at 5:56 PM PST - 6 comments

What's a semi-easy way to earn money online?

What's a semi-easy way to earn money online? [more inside]
posted by GlassHeart at 5:52 PM PST - 12 comments

Page not found

Intranet sunset advice? Looking for advice, plans, stories etc from anybody who has shut down an intranet. [more inside]
posted by smoke at 5:48 PM PST - 4 comments

How to convert my AVCHD files to....anything playable

I have a Canon HFS100 camcorder that creates very clear, very sharp, very, very processor-intensive AVCHD video files (.mts extensions). Is there a simple way to convert these to a different codec, ideally upon import, so that my HTPC can play the files? [more inside]
posted by um_maverick at 5:38 PM PST - 4 comments

Why are so many planes registered in Wilmington, DE?

Is there really one airplane for every eight people in Wilmington, DE? [more inside]
posted by Orb2069 at 5:38 PM PST - 4 comments

How did a paper towel get in my crank case?

My motorcycle died recently. Eight miles after picking it up the shop where I had the carburetors serviced. They had it for over a month and presumable had the carbs off for a while. I took off the engine cover today and found paper towel chunks everywhere. The brown public restroom kind. Any idea how it got in there? [more inside]
posted by BishopFistwick at 5:29 PM PST - 13 comments

Random text --> Mdxrtt Eano

I'm looking for a program that will take a block of text, mix up the characters in the block, and then spit a mixed up block with the exact same character count. Where would I find such a thing?
posted by codacorolla at 5:20 PM PST - 12 comments

How to Keep two PCs Synched

I have a netbook. I also have a home PC. I would like for the content of them to be largely identical. How can I easily (and cheaply) accomplish this? [more inside]
posted by decathecting at 5:17 PM PST - 16 comments

Jordan travel advice?

Jordan travel advice? [more inside]
posted by meerkatty at 5:09 PM PST - 10 comments

How to send 5GB files??

How can I send HUGE files over the internet? (5GB, 20GB, etc)? [more inside]
posted by sharingideas at 4:53 PM PST - 24 comments

How to get Windows Live Mail to send my email?

I am using Windows 7, my Windows Live Mail acts fine until I have been on it a few minutes and then I cannot get it to send my Outbox mail and when I try to sync it I get error message "internet not connected" - if I disconnect from internet and reconnect my Outbox sends it then. How can I get it to stay connected or wake up to send and receive emails?
posted by sandyp at 4:47 PM PST - 4 comments

Cheap minimalistic CDMA phone?

What is a cheap, minimalistic CDMA mobile phone (something along the lines of the Blue Chip VX1)? The interwebs haven't turned up anything for me, really. [more inside]
posted by nrobertson at 4:41 PM PST - 5 comments

Health Insurance

What is the difference between a High Deductible Comprehensive health insurance plan and a Traditional Comprehensive insurance plan? [more inside]
posted by modoriculous at 4:19 PM PST - 7 comments

Bees on a dead frog.

Dead frog covered in bees...why? [more inside]
posted by not that girl at 4:18 PM PST - 11 comments

Zzzzzzzzzz the chicken has a machette. No mummy I can't play the piano....

How can I dream more...? [more inside]
posted by sodium lights the horizon at 4:00 PM PST - 25 comments

Rory wants to be better cleanshaven

Straight razor vs. safety? [more inside]
posted by Rory Marinich at 3:59 PM PST - 28 comments

Help me be an amazing executive assistant!

Can you give me advice, tips, useful skills, and important details on becoming a fantastic executive assistant? Please feel free to be as general or specific as you would like. Lots of details and [more inside]
posted by thankyouforyourconsideration at 3:56 PM PST - 23 comments

Pretend it's Johnny Cash's bucket list...

I'm making a tourism list of things involving smoking, drinking and shooting for someone who loves all three. Where would I find places that fit the bill? [more inside]
posted by rileyray3000 at 3:36 PM PST - 7 comments

Asking ex-wife to change her name

Can I, should I, dare I ask my ex-wife to stop using my last name? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 3:34 PM PST - 51 comments

How can I be professional and sharp without the boots and braces?

I'm a 28 year old woman. I know what aesthetic I want, where I can I buy clothing to make me into the butch-ish, 60s mod/skinhead of my dreams? [more inside]
posted by kendrak at 3:28 PM PST - 13 comments

Problems getting my little Assus online:

I need some advice about getting my little Assus online: [more inside]
posted by Katjusa Roquette at 2:47 PM PST - 9 comments

What is a good tablet computer for presentations by a clumsy professor?

I am trying to move from plastic transparencies in my teaching to a tablet computer. The reason I would like a tablet computer is that (in some classes) I work through problems (including circling and scribbling) with student input. An added issue is that I have a slight tremor, so I would like forgiving software or a large screen. (The iPad has too small a screen and is designed for touch, not writing.) I can use any OS. Any advice?
posted by espertus at 2:44 PM PST - 10 comments

How do you prevent bouts of PMS from getting in the way of your exercise?

Ladies of Metafilter: how do you prevent bouts of PMS from getting in the way of your exercise? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:21 PM PST - 18 comments

Who do we contact at the Oregon DHS to report an abusive work situation?

Who do we contact at the Oregon DHS to report an abusive work situation? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:11 PM PST - 4 comments

Forgive someone who stole from you?

Is it possible to forgive and go on loving someone who stole from you? (Long-winded story inside) [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:10 PM PST - 40 comments

Does salary requirement have to be in its own document?

A job ad says: "To apply for this opportunity, please submit a cover letter, salary requirements and resume online to [EMPLOYER]. [EMPLOYER] must receive all information requested in order to consider your candidacy. Could they possibly be expecting the salary requirement to be in its own document? Or can it be included in the cover letter? I am concerned about getting immediately screened out if I don't have a separate salary document.
posted by adty at 1:41 PM PST - 9 comments

porrón. porrón.. porrón. pom pom

How can I buy a Spanish porrón around Lyon in France?
posted by jeffburdges at 1:41 PM PST - 1 comment

Looking for a Philly doctor

Out-of-towner in Philly for the foreseeable future needs a GP, for general checkup as well as to look at a possible STD symptom. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 1:15 PM PST - 8 comments

Which bike is better for me?

Need help choosing between two bikes. [more inside]
posted by elpea at 1:05 PM PST - 15 comments

Resort options around Lake of the Woods?

Looking for suggestions for destinations around Lake of the Woods in Ontario for a large-scale family vacation. Also, how do you make it pleasant for all involved? [more inside]
posted by sadtomato at 12:37 PM PST - 3 comments

Be there AND be square.

I am looking for a small square rug to place under our breakfast table, and I need to find it fast in Austin, TX. Where in Austin should I look for such rugs? [more inside]
posted by thewildgreen at 12:35 PM PST - 11 comments

I love you, buddy.

I had to put my dear, grumpy, 16-year-old cat down yesterday. There were some things that I wish the vet's office had done differently, and I need some perspective on how to deal with it. TL;DR. [more inside]
posted by mudpuppie at 11:50 AM PST - 48 comments

i thought everything was on the internet?!

lyrics filter: Andrea Wittgens' "Comme Tu Veux" [more inside]
posted by cheemee at 11:43 AM PST - 7 comments

What do you wish you'd known when you moved into a shared house?

What do you wish you'd known when you moved into a shared house? [more inside]
posted by madcaptenor at 11:39 AM PST - 39 comments

Save a future thumb -- help me assemble a first aid kit for my husband's woodshop.

Save a future thumb -- help me assemble a first aid kit and emergency plan for my husband's woodshop. [more inside]
posted by metaseeker at 11:37 AM PST - 16 comments

How to move/ship my stuff from Istanbul to HCMC Vietnam?

I'm moving from Istanbul to HCMC, Vietnam in 2 weeks. What is the easiest and cheapest way to get all my stuff there, too? [more inside]
posted by hasna at 11:28 AM PST - 1 comment

Dis Otter Pop is Frozen but the otter Otter Pop Isn't

Food science, sort of: Why are the Otter Pops we purchased freezing unevenly and somewhat randomly? [more inside]
posted by moviehawk at 11:27 AM PST - 4 comments

Did Modigliani really sign other painter's paintings to up-sell them?

Surely Heidegger didn't actually walk about the woods in van Gogh's boots, right? Anecdotes in Wittgenstein's Mistress: complete fictions or some basis in truths? [more inside]
posted by Lutoslawski at 11:18 AM PST - 13 comments

I'm not Bruce Banner, why are my seams ripping?

Help me fit into a suit! [more inside]
posted by zennish at 11:15 AM PST - 12 comments

How do I mount the unmountable?

It's so, soooo secret even I cannot read it....Truecrypt idiocy story inside. Help! [more inside]
posted by MessageInABottle at 11:10 AM PST - 5 comments

Which Of My Friends Has The Most Friends?

Is there a way to see which of my Facebook friends has the most friends? [more inside]
posted by moonroof at 11:05 AM PST - 8 comments

Help me make 100 miles without casualties.

Cyclists! I just committed to do a century in two weekend's time. I'm a strong cyclist but haven't gone anywhere near that distance in a long time. I'd love your strategies and tips on quickie training, prep, and how to manage the ride. [more inside]
posted by foxy_hedgehog at 11:02 AM PST - 24 comments

Is there a clearance section on Book Depository?

As any fan of the site would know, Book Depository often have massive discounts (30-40%) on their already super-cheap books. Does anyone know if they list these in a clearance section, or if one can sort books via their % discount?
posted by mandrake at 10:54 AM PST - 0 comments

"Civilian Contractors 2: World in Flames" just isn't as catchy

What is the difference between a civilian contractor and a mercenary? [more inside]
posted by Ndwright at 10:54 AM PST - 13 comments

Why do I have nightmares every night?

Why do I have nightmares EVERY night? [more inside]
posted by shortbus at 10:53 AM PST - 27 comments

Flexibility and Range of Motion

I'm a (female, if it matters) beginning weightlifter trying to build lean muscle mass through exercise and a structured nutrition program. However, my progress has been stymied by my lack of flexibility and range of motion in my shoulders, hips, and legs, making proper form for squats and deadlifts very difficult. What are some exercises that I can do to correct this, and is there any hope that I'll ever be able to touch my toes? [more inside]
posted by Lieber Frau at 10:44 AM PST - 20 comments

Renting cars cheaply and calmly

Need some help on car rental logistics plus dealing with potential !DRAMA! on a family trip to Disney World. [more inside]
posted by desjardins at 10:28 AM PST - 21 comments

Macbook Pro's are great, but at what cost?

I am considering the local purchase of a Macbook Pro on Craiglist. Some of the circumstances around the sale are making me skeptical. I would appreciate your thoughts and advice. [more inside]
posted by karizma at 10:23 AM PST - 18 comments

How can I support the Ground Zero Mosque?

How can I help support the "Ground Zero" Mosque? [more inside]
posted by j1950 at 10:21 AM PST - 43 comments

I choose Sweden!

What logistical hurdles exist for implementing a differential taxation system where the level of government services you receive is determined by the taxation rate you choose to pay? [more inside]
posted by leotrotsky at 10:03 AM PST - 41 comments

Pre-op antibiotics, yay or nay?

I'm getting all four of my impacted wisdom teeth out tomorrow. In a study done in 2007, one dose of pre-op antibiotics has been shown to lower infection rates by 50%, and might do more good than several days of antibiotics post-op. My oral surgeon's office apparently does not follow that practice. Is there any danger in me taking one of the doses of amoxicillin that has already been prescribed for this procedure the night before? [more inside]
posted by wending my way at 9:37 AM PST - 17 comments

Stopping is a state of mind

Carfilter: I have a 2003 Ford Explorer (2WD, 2-wheel ABS) with 98k miles whose brake pedal requires more travel and pressure to get the vehicle to stop. I've checked the fluid--as has the repair shop every time it gets its oil change--as well as the pads and booster pump compression. My gut says to change the master cylinder. [more inside]
posted by fireoyster at 9:34 AM PST - 5 comments

Moving to Spain! ...now about that whole "job" thing...

Planning a move to Spain - job advice needed. [more inside]
posted by melissasaurus at 9:29 AM PST - 10 comments

Should I quit therapy for financial reasons?

Should I quit therapy for financial reasons? [more inside]
posted by juliapangolin at 9:29 AM PST - 20 comments

look, backwards with no hands...

Where can I find California state laws regarding driving a vehicle in reverse? [more inside]
posted by SpacemanStix at 9:14 AM PST - 8 comments

Afternoon + evening in San Jose, Costa Rica

We arrive in San Jose, Costa Rica, around 3 in the afternoon and fly out early the following morning. What are the best sights, sounds, and tastes that can be packed into this short time? [more inside]
posted by onepot at 9:08 AM PST - 9 comments

Best writers about web design?

Who are the most articulate, perceptive, knowledgeable writers about web design?
posted by Greenie at 9:01 AM PST - 15 comments

Don't know much about biology

Trying to make sense of the readings on my weight scale ... [more inside]
posted by troywestfield at 8:31 AM PST - 19 comments

Gifts for my 20-something world-traveling motorcycling brother?

My younger brother (late 20's, American ex-pat living in Sydney) is planning a solo motorcycle trip across Australia then up through South Asia to Russia (skipping China). What should I give him for his upcoming birthday? [more inside]
posted by BobbyVan at 8:18 AM PST - 11 comments

Is Sydney's future in the finance sector?

Is Sydney's future in finance? If so, will there be a significant demand for more skyscrapers/offices with large floorplates than are already available or being built, to meet the needs of this growing sector? [more inside]
posted by carnival of animals at 8:05 AM PST - 2 comments

Heat Rash City

I went to two different types of doctors for my heat rash, which has lasted a month so far. Both offered different diagnoses and different treatment plans. Who do I listen to? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:04 AM PST - 5 comments

Houseguest overstaying her welcome

A friend who was there for me when I needed her is now completely taking advantage of my kindness. Is it fair of me to want her out? (Apologies for a long story inside). [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:04 AM PST - 28 comments

How to deal with unbridled and unwarranted hate towards me?

How can I grow a thicker skin and deal with internet hate? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:04 AM PST - 36 comments

How do you deal with making mistakes?

When you make a real mistake, how do you deal with it? How do you deal with yourself and keep from feeling super guilty? [more inside]
posted by inatizzy at 7:48 AM PST - 16 comments

What is an appropriate gift, if any, to someone I barely know who is leaving for college?

What is an appropriate gift, if any, to someone I barely know who is leaving for college? [more inside]
posted by adipocere at 7:46 AM PST - 29 comments

Hellenistic influences of the early Christian church?

I am interested in finding a layman's book about the Hellenistic influences of early Christianity. (Basically how Christianity either adopted or smuggled it in. Not sure which word to use.)
posted by snap_dragon at 7:27 AM PST - 10 comments

Batman story ID

Can you help me find this Batman story? [more inside]
posted by Pork-Chop Express at 7:25 AM PST - 3 comments

Beyond Comment ca va

Different "how are yous" in different languages? [more inside]
posted by dave99 at 6:48 AM PST - 31 comments

I need a way for people to get my attention while I am wearing heaphones.

How to attract the attention of a be-headphoned person in a cube across an aisle facing away from the entrance without touching them? Ideally this would be inexpensive and not require any hardwiring. [more inside]
posted by winna at 6:41 AM PST - 32 comments

Must I wear the same earrings til Thanksgiving?

It's still painful to try to remove my starter earrings. Should it be? [more inside]
posted by serena15221 at 6:35 AM PST - 13 comments

What are some good non-refrigerated food ideas for Burning Man?

What are some good non-refrigerated food ideas for Burning Man? [more inside]
posted by buckaroo_benzai at 6:34 AM PST - 29 comments

Which car is quiet, fast, and reliable?

Which car is quiet, fast, and reliable? [more inside]
posted by eeby at 6:30 AM PST - 23 comments

Good dehumidifier for crawl space?

What's a good dehumidifier for a crawl space? I've read the posts on dehumidifiers for basements, but does a crawl space require something more robust? I'm trying to decide whether I can get away with something I can pick up easily at a big box store for a few hundred dollars, or whether I need to spend double or triple that.
posted by Shoggoth at 6:15 AM PST - 3 comments

ipad/iphone is recognized by iphoto but not itunes

I am trying to sync my ipad and iphone to my new imac. I transferred all of my information to my new imac from my mac mini via ethernet yesterday. Now my ipad and iphone are recognized by iphoto but not itunes. I checked, and I have the latest version of itunes installed. (I also have 3 separate accounts on the computer if that makes any difference). Please help!
posted by cg1 at 5:41 AM PST - 2 comments

How to make a Damascus Steel Style LARP sword?

LARPfilter - How to make a Damascus Steel style LARP sword [more inside]
posted by Cogentesque at 4:23 AM PST - 4 comments

Favorite groups/volunteering opportunities/events venues in London?

I'm an American moving to London soon. Because I don't know anyone there, I'm going to try to join some groups, take classes, and volunteer to meet people and generally just get out of my house. Of course, finding available classes and volunteering opportunities is easy, but it's considerably harder to figure out which ones are actually likely to be worthwhile. What groups, volunteer organizations, classes, and events venues have you had the best experiences with? [more inside]
posted by hazelshade at 3:13 AM PST - 19 comments

Top of my to do list, bottom of my fun list

Help me not be an idiot while buying a used car! (Some Rav4 specific details.) [more inside]
posted by A Terrible Llama at 2:54 AM PST - 7 comments

August 18

Which scoot to buy, Aprilia or Lance?

What scooter to choose, a 2004 Aprilia Mojito Custom 150 for $2000, or a 2010 Lance Cali Classic 125 for $1500? [more inside]
posted by MeatyBean at 11:07 PM PST - 6 comments

Where to find a high quality version of the OLD Venezuelan flag to buy?

Where to find a high quality version of the OLD Venezuelan flag to buy? [more inside]
posted by wooh at 10:51 PM PST - 1 comment

Should I say "more money please"?

Offered a job at a start-up. Salary decent but not amazing, no benefits. Should i start negotiating, if so how so? [more inside]
posted by Brainy at 10:41 PM PST - 19 comments

Tumblr architecture?

In what programming language and language framework is Tumblr written? [more inside]
posted by mnemonic at 10:03 PM PST - 3 comments

Looking for a Better APY

I'm considering an online bank for the higher rates of return available on a large sum of cash that I've been saving, but I'm sort of a Luddite, and I would appreciate your input. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:09 PM PST - 18 comments

Is there a palentologist in the house?

How much weight can a Pterodactyl/Pterosaur lift? Specifically something big like Quetzalcoatlus or Hatzegopteryx? [more inside]
posted by batgrlHG at 8:59 PM PST - 17 comments

Help! My internet connection sucks!

My internet connection has slowed to a crawl. Please help! [more inside]
posted by helios410 at 8:25 PM PST - 24 comments

Mathematical sequences challenge

Mathematical sequences challenge. Need your help. [more inside]
posted by gummo at 8:11 PM PST - 7 comments

It's academic

I'm looking for academic/scholarly/somewhat-serious articles discussing anime and/or manga. [more inside]
posted by joyeuxamelie at 7:37 PM PST - 8 comments

Have you had any experience with 3M command strips?

Have you had any experience with 3M command strips? [more inside]
posted by austinlee at 7:35 PM PST - 27 comments

Which are the Best iTunes Radio Stations?

iTunes radio listeners: What do you like? [more inside]
posted by hackly_fracture at 7:08 PM PST - 21 comments

Help me design and decorate a retro dining space!

Help me find a high table, solid high chairs, and assorted furnishings for my retro kitchen table / sidebar nook in San Francisco! [more inside]
posted by markkraft at 6:36 PM PST - 3 comments

Yellow Pages or Highway Robbery?

Is it important to be in the Yellow Pages anymore? [more inside]
posted by rikschell at 6:34 PM PST - 57 comments

free online directory of all businesses?

Is there an online directory that lists the address of all stores and businesses? [more inside]
posted by lacedcoffee at 5:34 PM PST - 7 comments

Office Renovation

I've a lovely office at work and I want to redecorate. The result should be a cross between a Victorian scholar's study and Captain Nemo's cabin. Suggestions and sources appreciated!
posted by alaaarm at 4:48 PM PST - 15 comments

Excel delimiters in one column

Excel filter: How to insert delimiters within one column?? [more inside]
posted by shotgunbooty at 4:46 PM PST - 7 comments

Is the parenthetical "read" pronounced "reed" or "red"?

Is the parenthetical "read" pronounced "reed" or "red"? [more inside]
posted by SNACKeR at 4:30 PM PST - 36 comments

How to Hug on Facebook

How can I hug my friend on Facebook? [more inside]
posted by taff at 4:22 PM PST - 18 comments

Google Chrome stores complete text of pages. How do I access this cache?

Do you use the Google Chrome browser? Try this: Open the history page, and search for a term. The resulting list will include not just the pages that have the term in their page's title or URL; it will also include pages that have the term in the actual text. This indicates that somewhere, Chrome is actually storing the text of all web pages you visit. (This is backed up by the fact that the search-results page shows you snippets from the results.) So here's the thing: I want to see the whole page of cached text, not just snippets. [more inside]
posted by Alaska Jack at 4:21 PM PST - 10 comments

What's best for maintaining wood and leather furniture?

For the first time in my life, I have real furniture! Can you help me keep it nice? [more inside]
posted by browse at 4:12 PM PST - 11 comments

Help me find clothes that fit correctly

I'm a tall (6'3"), somewhat slim (200lbs) man, and I'm having a hard time finding clothes that fit appropriately. Any recommendations on where I should shop? [more inside]
posted by elcainos at 4:02 PM PST - 16 comments

Share your wisdom, oh cheese lovers!

Talk to me about cheese! What do you pair with cheese that I'm not considering? I don't eat grains, corn or rice so I'm having trouble coming up with something not cracker-and-cheese or cube-of-cheese for my fix of dairy goodness [more inside]
posted by gilsonal at 3:31 PM PST - 65 comments

Getting the wife a new iPhone, and things related.

My wife wants to get an iPhone, and is currently on Verizon. I already have one. What's the best route for us to go? If she gets an iPhone4, can I take it and give her the 3GS just by swapping the SIM cards? What is your experience with AT&Ts family plans, or are we better off having separate accts? Does ordering the phone online make anything more difficult? [more inside]
posted by nevercalm at 3:09 PM PST - 22 comments

How to make your own Bank Note?

What are those cool swirly whirly patterns called on the back of playing cards and on Bank Notes? I want to create some, how do I go about finding how these are made? Is there source materials/tutorials for vector programs to get started? [more inside]
posted by flexiverse at 2:31 PM PST - 11 comments

Busted being unwittingly pervy at work

This morning at work, I was in a one-on-one meeting with a valued (and, yes, attractive) female colleague. While we were talking, she caught me looking up her skirt (yes, it was blatant). I looked up, and realized I was busted. At that point, she tugged her skirt down, rolled her eyes slightly, and got up and left (muttering an excuse that she had to "make a call"). I'm still really mortified that this happened. What should I do now? Should I say something to her? Apologize? Ignore the fact that this encounter ever happened? What's the least awkward way of proceeding, knowing that we'll likely be working together for a lot longer? Men: Have you ever gotten busted this way? What did you do? Women: Have you ever been in this position? Did you lose your respect for the peeper, or do you generally assume that most dudes are trying to peek at you whether you notice or not? Any advice would be valued. (If it matters, I'm male, she's female, we're both straight, and are about the same age.)
posted by anonymous at 2:25 PM PST - 152 comments

Why am I going crazy waiting for a proposal?

We know we want to get married. We have a general idea of when. But I'm going crazy waiting for the proposal. Help? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:25 PM PST - 41 comments

How bad is this going to hurt?

Kidney stone filter: What am I really in for? Give it to me straight. [more inside]
posted by MaryDellamorte at 2:15 PM PST - 30 comments

Why did my adapter go out, and how do I prevent that?

On Sunday morning we had a power outage here. My Mac's power adapter seems to have gone bad as a result, but none of my other computer parts did. What's the deal? [more inside]
posted by circular at 2:10 PM PST - 6 comments

1-stop post-rock gig listings in the UK please!

What is the best and easiest way to find out about instrumental post-rock in the UK? [more inside]
posted by K.P. at 2:07 PM PST - 4 comments

Where can I find a pickup volleyball game in NYC?

I just moved to New York City (Ridgewood, Queens) and I'm looking for any place to find regular pick up volleyball games. I'd join a league but I don't have tons of money and my schedule is pretty erratic for the time being. [more inside]
posted by mishamashes at 1:58 PM PST - 3 comments

FBML image maps will be the death of me!

Trying to create image map in Facebook and used image-maps.com now my image is HUGE and distorted. What's wrong? [more inside]
posted by UMDirector at 1:43 PM PST - 14 comments

Enterprise Desktop Management Packages?

Looking for a good enterprise desktop management suite for Windows 7, that will allow us to push out updates for all apps, inventory software, etc. [more inside]
posted by GJSchaller at 1:35 PM PST - 6 comments

Fixing broken links in Excel (when it's not in a formula

How do I find and fix broken links in Excel.... when it's not in a cell formula? [more inside]
posted by nyc_consultant at 1:07 PM PST - 5 comments

Home Library

I would like to establish a home library. What do I need to know? [more inside]
posted by Despondent_Monkey at 1:04 PM PST - 14 comments

Are there any modern communes in the US or a way i can co-parent?

Are there any modern communes in the US where people live in groups, share responsibilities, maybe are conscious, green etc? Relatedly, is there a way to be the 3rd or 4th parent? Being a single parent or even in dyad parenting seems like too much responsiblity...but being the 3rd or 4th parent (to go to soccer games, PTA meeting, car pool, make lunchs) sounds like a responsibility i could handle. I don't live in a community with children around so i can't offer up my co-parent services and it also sounds a bit creepy being 37 and wanting to babysit. Is there a way i can create this kind of community? I feel that i would make a great back up mommy.
posted by UltraD at 12:53 PM PST - 20 comments

Help me find the perfect dining table

The perfect dining table exists in my head. Does it in real life? [more inside]
posted by meghosaurus at 12:45 PM PST - 14 comments

How Do I Find An Unpublished Post In WordPress?

According to my WordPress dashboard, I have a total of 1,992 posts, of which 1,991 are published. Without searching through all 1,992 individually, how do I find the one unpublished post?
posted by briank at 12:43 PM PST - 8 comments

Go on, take the money and run

Please help me find more songs about lovers on the run from the law. [more inside]
posted by thewestinggame at 12:38 PM PST - 45 comments

Where did the good travel insurance finder website go?

Travel Insurance Finder? [more inside]
posted by hipersons at 12:35 PM PST - 2 comments

How can I order this NASA photo?

How can I get a copy of this NASA photo? It's a picture of the cast of Star Trek with the Space Shuttle Enterprise, number 50 in this Air & Space article of the top 50 NASA photos. [more inside]
posted by bq at 12:24 PM PST - 6 comments

How do Peace Corps (or similar) volunteers communicate their experiences in the field?

What tools do Peace Corps (or similar) volunteers use to communicate their experiences in the field? I'm especially looking for creative uses of digital/web communication tools: Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, blogs, etc.. Bonus points for any good examples. Thanks!
posted by charmston at 12:18 PM PST - 5 comments

Map to some maps

I need a map to some maps: What is the name of the collection/series of beautiful maps of New York City, over time, and where might I find it? [more inside]
posted by RajahKing at 11:59 AM PST - 5 comments

Wife has cancer (terminal, eventually) -- is it right/okay to have children?

My wife has (inevitably terminal) cancer, but we are considering trying to have a baby -- need some help identifying and giving thought to moral, ethical, and medical concerns. My family and friends are too close to the situation to give unbiased advice. [more inside]
posted by theplatypus at 11:54 AM PST - 90 comments

Does Sparty tackle a fake wolverine mascot?

Does Michigan State have a wolverine mascot that it brings out before MSU v. Michigan football games in East Lansing just so Sparty can tackle it? [more inside]
posted by PhatLobley at 11:51 AM PST - 9 comments

****ing batteries, how do they work?

Questions about priming a new battery to maximize its efficiency. [more inside]
posted by The Winsome Parker Lewis at 11:42 AM PST - 5 comments

Fucking Crossfit, how does it work?

What should I know about Crossfit, and what should I be cautious about? [more inside]
posted by verbyournouns at 11:25 AM PST - 44 comments

How do I/should I address my current position being moved while applying for new jobs?

How do I/should I address my current position being moved while applying for new jobs? [more inside]
posted by ridiculous at 11:20 AM PST - 8 comments

I was fired from a place I love. Help me

I was just fired from a job I love, which also happened to be a place I spent a great deal of time socially. How do I cope? [more inside]
posted by pyrom at 11:15 AM PST - 28 comments

Where can I find great new crime or mystery short fiction?

I want to read new crime fiction and/or mystery short stories. Where should I look? [more inside]
posted by dersins at 11:13 AM PST - 6 comments

How do I keep light from coming underneath my bedroom door and the Roomba from shutting it?

I have two problems with the bedroom door in my apartment. First, light gets through the 0.5-inch gap underneath it and wakes me up. Second, my Roomba bounces against it, causing the door to bounce against its spring doorstop and close, trapping the Roomba inside. [more inside]
posted by grouse at 11:06 AM PST - 12 comments

Why are my cat(s) peeing in the basement?

Yet another cat pee question. Bonus level of difficulty: multiple cats, culprit unknown. [more inside]
posted by The Card Cheat at 10:57 AM PST - 11 comments

Temporary move to Europe

Want to move to Europe. Understand many have done it before, but let me give more detail and then ask for advice. We're both in our early 30's, single (no kids) and have high-paying jobs, but ready to leave the corporate world. Both are debt free and have a good nest egg with zero commitments here. What we'd like to do is move to a mid-size town/city in Germany to start with and rent a furnished apartment for three months or so and just live. We would be very frugal, but like any single men, would like to meet European women and just have a good time dating around. Then, move to another country and repeat..and so on for about a year. In thinking it through, I'm wondering if it's really feasible. I was hoping if we split expenses and live cheaply, we could do it for about $1k/month each...if we avoid the big, tourist filled cities. That way we could immerse ourselves in the local cultures and get to know people as well. My questions: 1) Is this absolutely ridiculous? 2) Is there any chance of picking up odds/ends kind of work here and there in Europe to fill the reserves up? While we have healthy bank accounts, we want to spend little as possible. Any comments are much appreciated. Casting a wide net at this point to get any advice you are willing to give. Looked around the net, but love the meta-commenters the most...always useful answers.
posted by Yunani at 10:57 AM PST - 27 comments

How do I deal with careless ‘rape’ remarks?

How do I deal with careless ‘rape’ remarks? I am the original submitter of this anonymous AskMe post about disclosing my rape to an organization. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 10:46 AM PST - 61 comments

Help me to help me

Several months ago I had a bad anxiety attack. Since then, I have had an extremely heightened sense of self-awareness and have even become a bit agoraphobic (I understand this to be common after an attack). Common situations/activities that once felt natural, effortless even enjoyable (driving, shopping, taking kids to the park) can now induce panic because I over analyze everything. How can I return to my "normal" level of self-awareness and learn to go with the flow? Meds? Mind hacks? Cognitive therapy?
posted by punkfloyd at 10:45 AM PST - 13 comments

Kirtans or Bhajans in India?

I'm a fan of kirtan (sanskrit call-and-response devotional music from India) and am planning a trip to India mid-September to early December. Surprisingly I'm unable to locate online or in my guidebooks any temples or festivals where I might find some great kirtans or bhajans. Do any of you know of any famous ones that might happen this fall? [more inside]
posted by wavejumper at 10:21 AM PST - 4 comments

What can I do for my guys?

I'm the systems engineer of a team of about 25 developers and testers that have been working 12-16 hour days for about two and a half weeks straight in order to meet a deadline. What can I bring in to improve morale and keep them going? [more inside]
posted by schwab at 10:10 AM PST - 57 comments

Illustrating a book - what do I do now?

So, I have to illustrate a book. I've never done this before. I've illustrated before, but not in this professional a capacity, and I'm a little nervous about it. I have nightmares (literally) about using the wrong sort of paper or of the final product looking like nothing I sent in. Those of you who have illustrated professionally before - what can you tell me? What medium do you prefer to use? How do you make the most efficient use of your time? Are there any books on the subject you can recommend? Etc. [more inside]
posted by katillathehun at 9:54 AM PST - 5 comments

I see what you did there.

Is there any kind of OSS/otherwise affordable collaborative-editing software akin to Google Docs that one can host on their own system? [more inside]
posted by swngnmonk at 9:30 AM PST - 5 comments

CHI->CIN->CHI?

Would it be worth it to drive five hours from Chicago to Cincinnati to present a poster at a relatively influential conference for two hours and then drive back?
posted by nosugrefneb at 9:24 AM PST - 26 comments

How do I best advertise office space for rental in Covent Garden?

I'm looking for the best way to rent out some office space in the UK — specifically, one floor of a building in Covent Garden. Help! [more inside]
posted by jaffacakerhubarb at 9:16 AM PST - 1 comment

Tell me where to hike in the northeast US!

My partner and I are planning a week's vacation, focused on hiking, in mid- to late October. We are trying to figure out where in the Adirondacks, Vermont, etc. we should go. [more inside]
posted by sabotagerabbit at 9:09 AM PST - 10 comments

Repainting a Concrete Floor?

How do I successfully paint and seal my concrete basement floor? [more inside]
posted by AuntieRuth at 9:09 AM PST - 2 comments

Sorry dude, my kid's thirsty, I'm buying him a bottle of water

How does one remain friends with an uber-environmentalist/naturalist without having them drive you crazy? [more inside]
posted by teg4rvn at 9:07 AM PST - 33 comments

Help me help them

Is it appropriate to sponsor a fundraiser for an individual and their family and how would I go about organizing this? [more inside]
posted by mcarthey at 9:04 AM PST - 4 comments

Taxes on living stipends paid by graduate schools...

TaxFilter: I'm a Canadian who began a Ph.D at an American university. Tuition was waved and I received a living stipend of about $17,000 (paid monthly). This is pretty typical for graduate programs across Canada and the US. [more inside]
posted by kitcat at 9:01 AM PST - 12 comments

a problem for many, it seems: think line appears on screen

Yes. My IMac has that thin blue line on monitor. Yes. lots of folks get this. Question, though. [more inside]
posted by Postroad at 8:57 AM PST - 1 comment

Painting aluminum siding.

Does anyone have any experience with painting aluminum siding? In our case, the siding is blistered and peeling very badly and the bare aluminum is showing. [more inside]
posted by wg at 8:43 AM PST - 3 comments

Where Should I Jet To This September

Where should I fly to on my unlimited Jet Blue "All You Can Jet" pass? [more inside]
posted by Bunglegirl at 8:41 AM PST - 26 comments

Intro to Excel for Finance

Help me make a smooth transition into a new job in finance. I need to brush up on technical skills, most likely via excel. [more inside]
posted by Hurst at 8:39 AM PST - 3 comments

Morning sickness & the work place. Ugh.

How do expectant mothers make it through the work day while suffering from morning sickness? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:36 AM PST - 30 comments

Pottery for Dummies

ISO basic ceramics/pottery textbook/handbook. [more inside]
posted by hansbrough at 8:31 AM PST - 4 comments

Help me get to grad school without loosing my house!

How to manage my mortgate and insurance while I am away from my house for an extended period? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:27 AM PST - 6 comments

The Job Change Shuffle

I've been working as a consultant to a company that I want to work for full-time, but I don't want to burn any bridges or sour the relationship between my current employer and my (hopefully) soon-to-be employer. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:27 AM PST - 4 comments

Complaining about complainers.

How to handle complaining by people in conversations? I get annoyed by complaining; often it makes me not like the people who complain, and even if I do-- I get standoffish. [more inside]
posted by sandmanwv at 8:07 AM PST - 21 comments

I'm getting nuttin' for Christmas

The house I am preparing to move into has a "cosmetic" fireplace. It looks like a fireplace, it's built into the wall, but can't be used as one. What clever decorating ideas do you have for it? I'm game for anything--funny, functional, stylish, classic, clever, funky, hell--even some sort of tasteful heat retrofit--just anything that doesn't involve putting a fire in it (that would probably result in death).
posted by sourwookie at 7:56 AM PST - 26 comments

Austin, Texas recommendations

Please suggest things to do and places to see in Austin, TX. [more inside]
posted by joannemerriam at 7:48 AM PST - 23 comments

Don't Want to Rub the Wrong Way

Is it normal for the skin above a fracture to remain sensitive three weeks after a cast is removed? [more inside]
posted by Mertonian at 7:47 AM PST - 12 comments

Thanks for the money, I'm gonna spend it all on fancy hats!

Received a small scholarship--any etiquette tips? [more inside]
posted by aka burlap at 7:43 AM PST - 8 comments

Being neither overweight, nor a girl, nor a parent, I'm totally out of my depth here.

ParentingFilter: best approach for dealing with childhood obesity? [more inside]
posted by jon1270 at 7:41 AM PST - 40 comments

Looking for last-minute Oktoberfest accommodations. Where do we stay?

Looking for last-minute Oktoberfest accommodations. Where do we stay? [more inside]
posted by deansfurniture5 at 7:20 AM PST - 8 comments

Would-be colonists beaten by faster ship

Help me remember a science fiction story: colonists beaten to objective by faster earth ship. [more inside]
posted by snarfois at 7:12 AM PST - 19 comments

PDF forms with a twist

Is it possible to create a fillable PDF form that includes logic? Assume there is a sum calculation with total of $1000.00 If check box = selected, tax=12%, else if check box off, tax =0. If check box is selected, the tax field will show $120.00 and the grand total below it (sum of total + tax) will be $1120.00 If check box is not selected, grand total will be $1000.00 What is needed to do the above? Javascript? Any example will be welcome! BB
posted by bright77blue at 7:09 AM PST - 4 comments

Is there a herpetologist in the house?

My son's pet California King snake is acting very odd. Does anybody have an experience with this behavior in snakes? The snake is about 6-7 years old, bred in captivity. We've had him since he was a little less than a year old. He is 4 feet long and eats 1 adult mouse (frozen) a week at this time of year. Google turns up a handful of snake forum posts describing this same behavior, but no real answers. [more inside]
posted by brownpau at 7:00 AM PST - 9 comments

MLA Style for Meeting Minutes?

Is there a standard, or are there a few standards, for keeping meeting minutes? [more inside]
posted by fvox13 at 6:53 AM PST - 9 comments

The Happy Hooker - crochet yarn organization?

I'm taking a beginner's crochet course soon, with a view to going on to do amigurumi and maybe (much further down the line) trying a hand at knitting. What do you wish you knew when you started? [more inside]
posted by mippy at 6:41 AM PST - 30 comments

Dried Venus Fly Trap?

Where can I procure dried venus fly trap? Not extract, not the live plant - just the dried organic herb.
posted by watercarrier at 6:12 AM PST - 7 comments

Does it save energy?

My boss insists we turn off our dual 30 inch Apple monitors when we go to the bathroom. He says it wastes energy. But they're still plugged in to the wall and receiving power. How much energy is really being saved?
posted by captainscared at 6:08 AM PST - 23 comments

How safe are my passwords?

How safe are my passwords? [more inside]
posted by Joe Beese at 5:44 AM PST - 15 comments

Fill out my Map of Awesome

I'm updating my Map of Awesome - who else should be on there? Looking for performance artists, schools, companies, places, and other things that share characteristics of activism, creativity, and pure awesome. [more inside]
posted by divabat at 4:59 AM PST - 12 comments

Inspirational photo-essays. Show me them.

Looking for inspirational photo-essays. [more inside]
posted by gomichild at 4:54 AM PST - 6 comments

How can I salvage a bad sell on eBay?

My first sale on eBay was a new and unused mobile phone. Turns out that (unknown to me) it wasn’t new and has been used before. This is starting to turn into a bit of a disaster for an eBay virgin and threatens to tar me with a poor sellers rating. Can seasoned eBay’ers please give me some advice! [more inside]
posted by mr_silver at 3:47 AM PST - 25 comments

Short term apartment in Lyon?

Recommendations for a short-term Apartment Rental in Lyon, France? [more inside]
posted by vacapinta at 3:40 AM PST - 4 comments

Do the SAS walk funny?

Do the SAS have an identifiable way of walking across country? [more inside]
posted by Huw at 3:27 AM PST - 10 comments

Why does a fully charged battery last for a different length of time depending on how it's charged?

When I charge my phone using a portable charger, the battery runs out quicker than if it's charged from the mains. Why is this? [more inside]
posted by Wilka at 3:15 AM PST - 4 comments

Delayed Release Caffeine Pill

Is a delayed release caffeine pill, one with a coating to prevent it from being digested for 8+ hours, feasible? Would the pill be too far along in the digestive tract to have an effect at that point? How could I make one?
posted by phrontist at 1:33 AM PST - 10 comments

August 17

Bath and Body Works fuer die Maenner

Recommendations for great bath/body products for men? [more inside]
posted by ms.codex at 11:30 PM PST - 22 comments

Can't afford smartphone. What will do instead?

A Rumor Touch looks like my best bet to stay with this carrier. I might like the LG Prime, though. Do I have any other good options? Can I find an affordable no-contract smartphone? [more inside]
posted by dhartung at 10:27 PM PST - 3 comments

how can I wall mount an iphone dock? clocks preferable.

I want a wall-mounted iphone dock. a clock would be nice, but I don't need high quality speakers. [more inside]
posted by lrodman at 10:15 PM PST - 0 comments

iTunes replacement?

Is there any nice software that works well with a MP3 library on OSX that is like iTunes was before iTunes became bloated and awful?
posted by xmutex at 10:04 PM PST - 11 comments

A self-imposed mystery

I have a list of seemingly unrelated words that I wrote some time ago. I can't remember writing it, nor what it was meant to signify. Please help shed some light on this for me. [more inside]
posted by twirlypen at 9:22 PM PST - 35 comments

Channeling Larry Levan.

Seeking somewhat obscure '80s dance songs that are in the vein of Sheila-E and Exposé in terms of '80s sound, beat, female vocals and danceability. [more inside]
posted by blackcatcuriouser at 9:16 PM PST - 19 comments

I don't wanna be too short to ride a bike.

Where can I find a cheap bike for a short woman in NYC? [more inside]
posted by Eshkol at 8:54 PM PST - 12 comments

Zombiefilter: What is up with this Flemish painting?

Zombie Flemish Art filter: I saw this painting in the Groeninge Museum in Bruges, Belgium. What the hell is going on? [more inside]
posted by deludingmyself at 8:52 PM PST - 19 comments

Am I getting scammed via craigslist?

I'm not sure if I'm being ripped off on craigslist with this one....he says he'll pay me with paypal. [more inside]
posted by allthewhile at 8:24 PM PST - 28 comments

Help me find something new to do with my time

I'm looking for a new inexpensive creative / artistic hobby. [more inside]
posted by komara at 8:00 PM PST - 50 comments

Help me survive having my mom here, part II.

How can I manage to stay sane living with a (sometimes) ungrateful mother in a one bedroom apartment, who has attitude problems occasionally? [more inside]
posted by rainygrl716 at 7:57 PM PST - 9 comments

How far can a solar panel be positioned from the light it powers?

Can I position a solar panel a distance from the lights it powers and still have an effective power source? [more inside]
posted by arnicae at 7:35 PM PST - 10 comments

Booking a ferry from Athens to Crete?

How should I book an overnight ferry from Athens to Crete via the Internet? [more inside]
posted by destrius at 7:31 PM PST - 7 comments

my five year old keeps throwing up!

Why is my five-year-old vomiting constantly? And what do I do? [more inside]
posted by johnchristopher at 7:24 PM PST - 26 comments

COBRA SNAFU

What to do regarding COBRA coverage being canceled due to negligence of former employer? [more inside]
posted by moosedogtoo at 6:46 PM PST - 9 comments

"Do you have any questions for us?"

Meta-ask: How can I learn to ask better questions? Specifically: how I can learn to ask natural, un-contrived questions in job interviews? [more inside]
posted by devotion+doubt at 6:22 PM PST - 29 comments

Hooking up RCA-out Record Player to headphones?

Hooking up RCA-out Record Player to headphones? [more inside]
posted by JimBennett at 5:56 PM PST - 19 comments

I want to smell like food

Help me smell like food! I found this hair stuff that smells vaguely of nutmeg, and it occurred to me how much I like that sort of smell. Are there any personal hygiene products that smell like food or spices? Excluding the typical fruit and vegetable scents, of course.
posted by seiryuu at 5:43 PM PST - 39 comments

Biological evidence for homosexuality?

hey... I was wondering where I can find the best evidence to prove that sexuality is biological or womb hormonally rather than child rearing caused? Just for my parents who are damn annoying. Thanks!
posted by antgly at 5:36 PM PST - 34 comments

which ibm laptop should i get?

Which new IBM laptop should I get? [more inside]
posted by pintapicasso at 5:05 PM PST - 18 comments

Filter Google culture for me

What are Google's People Programs people like? [more inside]
posted by bad grammar at 5:05 PM PST - 6 comments

Getting treatment for non-emergency medical problem without insurance

I'm 28 and I recently found out I most likely have a serious condition I need treatment for. It will almost certainly involve a urologist and possible (minor) surgery (probably in-office). I have no health insurance, make about 40k a year, but have very little discretionary income. How do I go about this? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:04 PM PST - 7 comments

Help me understand hair care chemistry

Help me understand hair care chemistry. When I look at the list of ingredients on bottles of conditioner, what ingredients should I avoid. I can't stand the 'waxy' feeling I get from some conditioners. My old favorite standby conditioner changed formulas recently and it now has the dreaded waxy ickiness. NOT looking for specific product recommendations, only for ingredients to avoid or possibly ingredients to look for. [more inside]
posted by marsha56 at 4:42 PM PST - 16 comments

How to piggy back my media server onto my UVerse network

Can I somehow piggy back my media server on the network cables AT&T is going to use tomorrow for my U-Verse setup? [more inside]
posted by sideshow at 4:34 PM PST - 5 comments

I need to deal with a racist friend.

One of my friends used the N-word. I don't know what to do. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:26 PM PST - 55 comments

Help me figure out if I cheated on an exam last night

Something strange happened during an exam last night when the teaching assistant/proctor and I were alone that has left me feeling weirdly guilty. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:26 PM PST - 24 comments

What can I do to help my severely depressed and overworked boyfriend?

What can I do to help my severely depressed and overworked boyfriend? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:26 PM PST - 11 comments

What type of wirelessly accessible storage solution should I go with in my new home network? Details inside...

What type of wirelessly accessible storage solution should I go with in my new home network? Details inside... [more inside]
posted by decrescendo at 4:25 PM PST - 3 comments

What should I do with my Bread Machine?

What are your best bread and non-bread recipes for a bread machine? [more inside]
posted by otherwordlyglow at 4:18 PM PST - 10 comments

Drug Dealing Kids

I'm try to find a music video (most likely Rap or R&B) that portrayed two young kids as drug dealers. [more inside]
posted by nam3d at 4:04 PM PST - 1 comment

Creative promotion ideas for a conference.

How do I promote my web design freelance business at a conference I am attending (unrelated to web design)? [more inside]
posted by [insert clever name here] at 3:51 PM PST - 3 comments

Quiet, peaceful escape near Vancouver

Where to go for a quiet budget vacation near Vancouver at end of August? [more inside]
posted by Listener at 3:36 PM PST - 14 comments

Goodbye Paper!

Collegefilter: Entering college in October. How do I stay organised? [more inside]
posted by freddymetz at 3:35 PM PST - 15 comments

food + ? = our perfect TV show

Your suggestions for TV that peripherally incorporates yummy things, please. [more inside]
posted by peachfuzz at 3:28 PM PST - 15 comments

How to deal with an insensitive friend.

Suggestions on how to deal with a friend who is unwittingly insensitive to others despite being quite sensitive herself. I would like to figure out a tactful way to push back on specific insensitive comments. What is the best way to do this? [more inside]
posted by E-Boogie at 3:24 PM PST - 5 comments

Anyone remember that article on investing in a person?

i read an article a while back about venture capital style investing in an individual. they had some sort of contract where they were giving her a lump sum, and in return would get a cut off of her income for some number of years. anyone know where the original article is?
posted by tehgeekmeister at 3:23 PM PST - 3 comments

Cheap health care in the Minneapolis area?

I have catastrophic health insurance for the catastrophes. But until I reach that $3000 deductible, I'd really like to pay less than I currently am for checkups and other simple doctors visits. For example, I recently went in for an ear infection. My doctor took a look and prescribed an antibiotic. It took 10m and I got a bill for $200. I'm not here to complain about how expensive health care is -- that's pretty well established and has been done plenty already -- but what are my more affordable alternatives? [more inside]
posted by grammalvsu at 3:18 PM PST - 14 comments

I know I can rock this job, now I just have to feel it.

How can I ease the mental/emotional/logistical transition to a new full time job when I've been an underemployed freelancer for the last few years? [more inside]
posted by mostlymartha at 3:10 PM PST - 9 comments

Need a restaurant gift certificate for sister's wedding

My sister is getting married, and I'd like to get her a gift certificate to a great, hip Chicago restaurant. My budget's about $200-250 and I'd love to be able to include enough for a bottle of wine. [more inside]
posted by hamster at 3:00 PM PST - 9 comments

Do I have a legal leg to stand on?

I believe that I've been wrongly accused by my employer of professional misconduct, but I'm not sure. What are my legal rights? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:59 PM PST - 15 comments

A magic laser genie!

I have about 10-15 pounds to lose and am already on a slow but steady diet/exercise regime. However I was just sent an online deal where I'd have the option of buying 12 sessions of RF laser body contouring (similar to Velashape) for only $200 (as opposed to over 2 grand.) Is it worth it to try? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:59 PM PST - 17 comments

Shooting eyeball closeups isn't cutting it anymore

I've been tasked at school to photograph a negative emotion. I had a plan in place which broke to bits when I forgot my camera at school over the weekend. I need to shoot something tomorrow, but I'm having trouble being more creative than some crude and banal ideas for photographs of fear. I can't find inspiration online - all I come up with is crappy stock photography. Can you please point out for me good online and free resources on scene staging in films, resources on photographing emotions or good examples of emotional photos?
posted by ye#ara at 2:34 PM PST - 26 comments

SKUH, RUDE, SCREWED

Disputing a bill with the electric company: how to estimate electric usage of heater/central air. [more inside]
posted by samsara at 2:25 PM PST - 9 comments

Blocked breast duct - what can I expect?

Experiences with mastitis? [more inside]
posted by rubbish bin night at 2:21 PM PST - 14 comments

What should I ask before buying this apartment?

About to buy my first apartment and I'm totally new to this. Does any seasoned house/apartment-buyer have any good questions for a real-estate agent? [more inside]
posted by mateuslee at 2:20 PM PST - 2 comments

Referral Madness

Chicken-and-egg medical referral problem here. I'm hoping someone who understands the mysterious world of health insurance and referrals can help out. [more inside]
posted by tetralix at 2:03 PM PST - 11 comments

mrsmoonpie wants to marry you in Dupont Circle

Help me find a quiet place to marry folks in Dupont Circle area. [more inside]
posted by eviltiff at 1:58 PM PST - 16 comments

Alternate to Don Alverzo's tweezers?

One Hen, Two ducks, radio test/memory trick VS. alternate version - Are you a Turtle? [more inside]
posted by bartleby at 1:46 PM PST - 6 comments

Where to start on a redesign

Redesigning website. Where to begin? [more inside]
posted by stormpooper at 1:43 PM PST - 16 comments

It'll look great next to my Scarface poster and the Periodic Table of Beer.

Affordable reproduction of Wyeth's Northern Point? [more inside]
posted by theodolite at 1:30 PM PST - 4 comments

Lease Issues

I live with two other people in an apartment in Illinois. The lease holder of the apartment was just hospitalized for what be an extrended period and myself and the other apartment-mate are not on the lease. [more inside]
posted by lampshade at 1:24 PM PST - 9 comments

Will the boot fit?

I bought myself a pair of Real Cowboy Boots the other day, and I can't quite figure out if they fit me right. Should I return them and find another pair? [more inside]
posted by aaronbeekay at 1:16 PM PST - 15 comments

Black mesh fabric with large holes?

Where can I find large-holed fishnet/mesh fabric like this? [more inside]
posted by thesmallmachine at 1:06 PM PST - 6 comments

Buzz buzz, your blood is delicious!

We have a mosquito/fly problem, but we live in the city. Help! [more inside]
posted by two lights above the sea at 1:05 PM PST - 9 comments

How to identify a piece of art?

Help identifying a Miró painting, seen in the Fundació Joan Miró. [more inside]
posted by mattkh at 12:55 PM PST - 13 comments

Let's Scare Jessica to Death

Recommendations for thought-provoking books or essay collections that analyze horror movies, please. [more inside]
posted by ifjuly at 12:51 PM PST - 18 comments

Help me plan to fly a few places, with a service dog?

Do travel agencies exist any more? If so, will it be worth it to use one for this trip? Can they make it easier to travel with my owner-trained service animal? [more inside]
posted by jesirose at 12:47 PM PST - 18 comments

Help me kill the crackling

Can anyone recommend a guitar shop in central London that does simple set-ups and electrical overhauls? [more inside]
posted by jonathanbell at 12:45 PM PST - 2 comments

this controller, it vibrates?

What are some neat things I can do with a PlayStation 2? [more inside]
posted by spikeleemajortomdickandharryconnickjrmints at 12:25 PM PST - 24 comments

How to password protect a linked file?

I need to send an MP3 music file to a number of email addresses. I want to do this by directing people to a download on a web link, rather than emailing the (large) file direct. I also want to be able to password-protect the file in that link (either the file or the link), so the music doesn't get passed around beyond the list of recipients. Does anyone know of any good resources for this? Thanks, oh wise ones.
posted by Conductor71 at 12:19 PM PST - 10 comments

If you wrap the Internet around every person on the planet and spin the planet, software flows in the network.

BitTorrent Client recommendation [more inside]
posted by Mitheral at 12:19 PM PST - 17 comments

Help me make pulled pork for my wedding

I really want to make my own pulled pork for my wedding next summer - help me make the dream a reality! [more inside]
posted by ORthey at 12:02 PM PST - 20 comments

beer.fm?

Are there any websites like last.fm, but for beer? [more inside]
posted by sprocket87 at 12:00 PM PST - 15 comments

Why won't anyone house me?

How can I find a short-term sublet not using Craiglist? In Queens. [more inside]
posted by Michael Pemulis at 11:43 AM PST - 3 comments

How can I get YouTube to accelerate playback to 2x or 3x?

I love Khan Academy's educational videos on YouTube, but I'm impatient - How can I accelerate YouTube video playback to 2x or 3x speed? [more inside]
posted by lizzicide at 11:34 AM PST - 5 comments

Could we survive a dive into water from out terminal velocity?

Say a very light, very healthy person took a dive from some stupidly high altitude, and spread themselves out into a skydiving position so that they just reached their minimum terminal velocity. Would it be at all possible that this person could survive the drop if they landed in the sea, assuming they quickly rearranged themselves into a more streamlined diving position just before impact?
posted by insperatum at 11:26 AM PST - 19 comments

A restful vacation near Upstate NY?

I’m physically and mentally exhausted and I don’t know how to have a restful vacation anymore. For years I’ve come home from our typical vacations tired and stressed out by too much planning, too much decision making, too much driving and/or flying, and a wife who thinks we have to fill each day with sightseeing from dawn to dusk. This year we only have a week in mid-September and I’m looking for some ideas and suggestions for a more relaxing vacation that’s within about a six-hour drive of western NY. [more inside]
posted by someonesomewhere at 11:22 AM PST - 19 comments

Troubleshooting distortion within turntable.

TurntableFilter: Distortion within 'table itself requires diagnosis and repair. Troubleshooting ideas and/or audio technician recommendations near Boston, MA much appreciated! [more inside]
posted by alexandermatheson at 11:20 AM PST - 6 comments

Figuring out logistics of camping & hiking in Alaska

Camping in Alaska: I'm looking to camp at the Eklutna Lake campgrounds 3 weeks from now on way to a 4 day sojourn into Denali State Park. However, I can't reserve a spot in advance. How likely is it that there will be no free campgrounds available, being slightly after the end of the summer season? What are some similar quality campgrounds in the "between Anchorage & Denali" zone if Eklutna is fully booked? [more inside]
posted by Darke at 10:52 AM PST - 4 comments

What can do for a few days?

What can two thirty year old dudes do for a few days? We are in Dorset in the UK and have access to cash and a car. Camping will probably be involved, but where shall we go? And what shall we do? Outdoor pursuits and drinking of real ale and cider sound good, any suggestions?
posted by mooreeasyvibe at 10:45 AM PST - 6 comments

50th anniversary gift ideas for a boyfriend's parents?

What to get a new-ish boyfriend's parents for their 50th anniversary? [more inside]
posted by oceanview at 10:43 AM PST - 13 comments

Help me understand how the Internal Medicine medical boards are scored.

My little brother is re-taking the internal medicine medical boards and I'm trying to get a better understanding of how much he needs to increase his score. [more inside]
posted by petestein1 at 10:41 AM PST - 1 comment

Non-mgmt hospitality jobs that pay well

How does one make money in retail/hospitality without becoming a manager? Are there “hidden” lower-level hospitality jobs that pay well? [more inside]
posted by yawper at 10:22 AM PST - 11 comments

how to bypass google chrome's "Warning: Visiting this site may harm your computer!" page?

how do i bypass google chrome's "Warning: Visiting this site may harm your computer!" page? (ie. put certain sites i frequently visit on a safe white-list of sorts) [more inside]
posted by qvinx at 10:15 AM PST - 6 comments

Help me play videos on my TV

Downloaded TV shows on my TV, so what's the best device to do this? [more inside]
posted by jdlugo at 10:11 AM PST - 14 comments

Help me find a job that doesn't break me.

How to find a tech job that doesn't make me crazy? [more inside]
posted by my name is irl at 10:09 AM PST - 9 comments

Should I let my girlfriend go to London?

I moved across the country to live with my girlfriend. Now she wants to go abroad for a year, and I don’t want her to go. Are either or both of us being selfish/unreasonable? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 10:08 AM PST - 69 comments

How does social pressure affect sticktoitiveness?

I want to learn as much as possible about the psychology of purposely forming new habits (like exercising each day) or sticking to something which requires daily work (like learning a language). I am especially interested in the role that social pressure of peers can play in a person's success (Alcoholics Anonymous, study partners, even the recent findings that a person's weight is related to the weight of those close to them may be examples). Books, articles, jumping off points -- academic or otherwise -- would be very much appreciated!
posted by the jam at 10:07 AM PST - 8 comments

Brr, it's cold in here... oh wait no it isn't.

Our thermostat really wants to heat our apartment. We really want it to cool our apartment. What could be causing this? [more inside]
posted by magnetsphere at 9:59 AM PST - 7 comments

What are some ubiquitous indie grocery items?

I just saw the Dr. Bronner's Magic Soapbox documentary (great stuff!) and was amazed that they haven't been bought out by a conglomeratated foodstuffs megacorp. [more inside]
posted by quarterframer at 9:55 AM PST - 33 comments

Bank a favor vs cold hard cash

Is it better to accept money for a favor or to bank the favor? [more inside]
posted by MrMulan at 9:52 AM PST - 31 comments

Reservations about reserves

Navy Reservists filter: How often and how long do you deploy? Have the reserves "interfered" in your formerly civilian lives? [more inside]
posted by ehamiter at 9:41 AM PST - 5 comments

Emerging Markets

How can I passively invest in China, Brazil, and India for the long-term? 10-30 years. Help me understand the risks associated with these emerging markets. Should I simply dump my cash into iShares like EWZ or FXI and let it sit? Should I invest in individual companies? Index funds like the Vanguard Emerging Markets? Any thoughts on these investments for the long term? I am a passive investor that usually dumps money into Vanguard index funds. Isn't investing in China and India over the long term kind of a no-brainer? Help me understand what is involved in emerging markets and how I can get better returns than my Electric Orange account.
posted by jasondigitized at 9:40 AM PST - 7 comments

Something Old, Borrowed, or New

What's a cool gift my wife -- the Maid of Honor -- can give the Bride on her Wedding Day? [more inside]
posted by ryecatcher at 9:18 AM PST - 10 comments

Twain-esque Road Trip

Road trip filter: what should we see on our trip up the Mississippi between St Louis and Iowa City? (more inside) [more inside]
posted by sideofwry at 9:00 AM PST - 9 comments

Texas Contract Lawyer Needed

Looking for a trade secrets/non-compete contract lawyer in Austin, TX for a consultation. How can I find one, and what should I expect to pay? [more inside]
posted by mad bomber what bombs at midnight at 8:59 AM PST - 4 comments

Fluid vs. Resolution Dependent

I've got some questions about resolution dependent vs. fluid layouts in web design... [more inside]
posted by HopperFan at 8:58 AM PST - 12 comments

Name these shoes?

Which brand / model of shoes are these?
posted by fac21 at 8:56 AM PST - 4 comments

Colorado Road Trip

5 day road trip through Colorado, where should we go? [more inside]
posted by slowtree at 8:54 AM PST - 16 comments

Where can I find out about browser-related issues when writing CSS/HTML/JavaScript?

Where can I learn about how to deal with browser-related problems when writing CSS, HTML and JavaScript for a web site? [more inside]
posted by tallmiddleagedgeek at 8:54 AM PST - 10 comments

Ungrateful entitled prick with his head in the clouds? Or exploited lab rat with legitimate concerns? You make the call!

I'm having trouble dealing with dissatisfaction with my first post-college job, which makes me feel more than a little over-entitled. My frank impression is that the workplace is in shambles and that I'd been lied to in the interview process; more charitably, I'm wondering if perhaps this particular posting just isn't for me. Given the details, what's the best way for me to go about readjusting my mind for the position, readjusting the position for my mind (i.e. closer to what I was told it would be), or giving up the ghost and going for something different? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:26 AM PST - 13 comments

And this is how I met Tyler Durden.

"And this is how I met Tyler Durden." Are there any legitimate lines of psychological therapy that encourage people to create alternate or split identities for themselves? As in, "Today is the first day of the rest of your life as another person that happens to share your name, face and past history." [more inside]
posted by Cool Papa Bell at 8:22 AM PST - 13 comments

All day long he tucks and fits, and fits and tucks, and tucks and fits....

Please help me find similar pronunciations of profanity and non-profanity for my Korean class e.g., "beach" and "NSFW" [more inside]
posted by Knigel at 8:15 AM PST - 13 comments

What makes me a doctor in UK?

What degree in the UK will allow me to call myself a medical doctor? Can I add a Dr. to my name if I do an MBBS or equivalent, or do I need to complete a specialization? [more inside]
posted by hariya at 8:13 AM PST - 8 comments

I want THIS over THERE

Why won't my 17" Macbook Pro remember where I put windows when I connect my external monitor? [more inside]
posted by Fleebnork at 8:12 AM PST - 7 comments

The McDonald's Counter Rush Job. Why?

Why is it that at McDonald's they rush you into ordering as soon as possible? Specifically, if I'm the only person in the store who hasn't ordered and I'm away from the counter deciding what to order, they'll shout at me say, "Can I help you sir?" This only happens at McDonald's. [more inside]
posted by sleslie at 8:01 AM PST - 28 comments

Best data/ network security cert for a retiree

What technical education or certifications, especially in data or network security, would allow my tech-savvy dad to earn some extra money in retirement? [more inside]
posted by Clambone at 7:58 AM PST - 2 comments

Help me find the best Android resources on the net!

What are the best resources on the net for Android, in terms of apps, and the latest news? [more inside]
posted by antifuse at 7:53 AM PST - 12 comments

Looking for Wired Photos of Salt Flat Racers

Could anyone help me find photos from an article in Wired about racing on salt flats? [more inside]
posted by picea at 7:40 AM PST - 6 comments

Codeshares + baggage fees = confusing!

How are excess-baggage fees handled on this itinerary? [more inside]
posted by photo guy at 7:39 AM PST - 4 comments

Third time's the....nevermind.

Which cardinal rule of dating am I breaking? If I don't know what I'm doing wrong, how can I stop doing it? (Perhaps mildly NSFW). [more inside]
posted by motsque at 7:08 AM PST - 65 comments

How can I prove I can drive a stick in Ontario?

How can I prove to the UK I can drive a manual transmission in Ontario? [more inside]
posted by generichuman at 6:57 AM PST - 9 comments

Is my homemade 'kraut supposed to smell/taste like this?

I made homemade garlic beet sauerkraut (using green cabbage) and it smells a bit old gym sock (but does not taste like it). Is this how sauerkraut is supposed to smell? It also tastes mostly salty and not very sour even though I let it ferment for well over a month. Is homemade 'kraut just milder than store bought?
posted by radioaction at 6:55 AM PST - 13 comments

Patio Heaters for Cooler Climates

Residential patio heaters, fall and spring in New England or similar climate: your experiences please. [more inside]
posted by acanthous at 6:16 AM PST - 3 comments

Please keep me from slowly destroying all my good stuff.

I have a bunch of pieces of art that I'm not displaying, but I'm not sure how I should be storing them. What's the best way to protect and preserve them (preferably without spending a zillion dollars)? [more inside]
posted by Admiral Haddock at 5:54 AM PST - 6 comments

How can I argue down an aberrantly high electrical bill?

Is it possible to get an electrical company to reduce an aberrantly high bill? Bonus complication: it was my final bill, so I no longer live in their service area and I no longer have access to the apartment in question. [more inside]
posted by Johnny Assay at 5:43 AM PST - 14 comments

I want a Wedonknowwhodunnit.

[Bookfilter] Please suggest books where the killer was never caught, or the missing person was never found. Bonus: Non-fiction.
posted by Buffaload at 5:20 AM PST - 33 comments

Unclump my histogram

How to smooth a histogram or unclump a dataset. [more inside]
posted by DU at 5:03 AM PST - 12 comments

Chance and the Humanities

I'm looking for historic or documented examples of significant research discoveries that occurred as a product of serendipity–specifically in the humanities. Wikipedia's listing on serendipity primarily lists scientific examples. Surely serendipitous discovery occurs in the humanities. What are the best examples?
posted by Toekneesan at 4:36 AM PST - 4 comments

Looking for a small NAS with SFTP capability

Anyone know of a small NAS with SFTP capability, to be used with ExpanDrive? [more inside]
posted by Dr Dracator at 3:06 AM PST - 2 comments

Useful tips for self-learning/becoming an autodidact?

Useful tips for self-learning/becoming an autodidact? [more inside]
posted by meta.mark at 2:51 AM PST - 10 comments

The Anti-Kettle

Why can't I buy the opposite of a kettle? Why aren't they commonplace? [more inside]
posted by devnull at 2:21 AM PST - 19 comments

What's up with my son?

My three-year old son has suddenly started behaving very unusually. Any advice? [more inside]
posted by obiwanwasabi at 1:42 AM PST - 40 comments

Function for finding latitude given the Y position on a Mercator world map?

Function for finding latitude given the Y position on a Mercator world map? [more inside]
posted by gwint at 1:20 AM PST - 8 comments

I want to start a cult, but for music

I want to play music with other people. I want to focus mostly on live performances that skew toward improvisational. Seems easy enough... right? [more inside]
posted by palacewalls at 12:43 AM PST - 5 comments

August 16

Whoopie! Pie!

What is your favorite, actually tried and tasted, whoopie pie recipe? Any tips for a first time whoopie pie baker?
posted by nadawi at 11:44 PM PST - 12 comments

Mosaic tile art project advice needed. Are you a mosaicist?

Is anyone here a mosaic tile artist ? I'm looking for a source for mosaic tiles that have a significant range of shading, to construct a monotone tile mosaic from a b&w photo. [more inside]
posted by eaglehound at 10:50 PM PST - 5 comments

Mapping for dummies

I want to map the walking tracks and landmarks on a 2000ac property in Australia and produce a printable map image as well as a gps file others can download. I have a Garmin eTrex Vista H but I don't really understand how to use it for my purposes. [more inside]
posted by Kerasia at 9:43 PM PST - 8 comments

Help me get to Europe and back

I'm planning a trip to Europe and could use some suggestions about plane/rail logistics. [more inside]
posted by Cogito at 9:30 PM PST - 20 comments

What is the melody sample on track 2 on Sab the Artist EP?

What old RPG is the melody sampled from on track 2 on Sab the Artist EP? [more inside]
posted by monguin61 at 9:18 PM PST - 7 comments

Where's Waldo? - The Music Version

Where can I find this type of music-inspired art? [more inside]
posted by Kippersoft at 9:13 PM PST - 1 comment

How can you support yourself when you can't work full-time?

How do you make money and support yourself with a debilitating illness? [more inside]
posted by AmitinLA at 8:58 PM PST - 5 comments

Biking to The Cloisters

Can/Should I visit The Cloisters by bicycle? [more inside]
posted by Right On Red at 8:05 PM PST - 7 comments

NYC weird stuff to do for visitors.

NYC is large and overwhelming. Romantic partner and I are going for vacation for 4 days (sept 16-20ish). Only things on the agenda so far are: Doughnut Plant and Pickle Guys. What else should we do? (Also,where should we stay?) [snowflake details inside] [more inside]
posted by gregglind at 8:03 PM PST - 24 comments

Help me find a nice location in Melbourne, Australia, for a wedding reception.

I'm getting married in January, and I'm looking for a low key place to hold the reception, in Melbourne.au [more inside]
posted by tomble at 7:34 PM PST - 7 comments

Buying my first stock in a company. What should I know?

I am about to buy 2-4 shares in a company that I would like to support. This company may not last this long, but they plan to pay dividends in two years. What do I need to know, having never invested before? Are there any good tutorials on what I can expect from my stock? What about paying taxes/getting deductions if I lose money? Basically, I would be happy breaking even, but am not sure that will happen. However, I strongly support the company and wish to see it succeed. How can I minimize the losses I might face if the company goes belly up?
posted by idyllhands at 7:26 PM PST - 9 comments

Hotel recommendations near Berryville, VA?

Hotel recommendations near Berryville, VA? [more inside]
posted by ants at 7:04 PM PST - 5 comments

Can anyone help me find a good apartment near Aberdeen, MD?

Can anyone help me find a good apartment near Aberdeen, MD? [more inside]
posted by Tharxa at 6:56 PM PST - 2 comments

Bowling & Pool in Chicago

Tell me about all the bowling alleys and places to shoot pool in Chicago, both good and bad. If they have a pool table or a bowling lane, I want to know about it. [more inside]
posted by Juliet Banana at 6:55 PM PST - 13 comments

"If a student hasn't learned..."

What are some programs that help mid-career teachers to improve the way they teach, especially teaching lower-performing students? [more inside]
posted by ES Mom at 6:54 PM PST - 5 comments

Dream job for an aspiring actor who does not enjoy starving to death

"Does my dream job exist?" Or, "What are some good fallback jobs for an aspiring actor who does not enjoy starving to death?" [more inside]
posted by Wanderboy at 6:51 PM PST - 24 comments

Why won't iTunes recognize that my iphone has already been set up?

On Friday, I used Sn0wbreeze to update my (jailbroken) iphone 3gs from 3.1.3 to 4.0. Everything went smoothly, and I restored all my previous apps and files. I synced the phone a few times that night to get all my settings the way I wanted. Today, I plugged in my phone to sync it, but now iTunes is showing the "Set Up Your Phone" screen, with the options of either setting it up as a new phone or restoring from a backup. What gives, and how do I make it quit? [more inside]
posted by Captain Cardanthian! at 6:03 PM PST - 2 comments

Where should I dance in LA?

Help me have happy feet. I'd like to dance. Not clubbing; I wnat to do partner dancing, or group jazz type dancing or something. Where can I do it in Los Angeles (pref West LA area)? Bonus points if the average age is between 35 and 55. More info inside. [more inside]
posted by bluesky78987 at 6:00 PM PST - 11 comments

Moving to Belgium from Los Angeles, CA

Moving soon to Belgium, to married to a Belgian native. Anything I should know about, moving from Los Angeles, CA, to Belgium? [more inside]
posted by seancake at 5:54 PM PST - 6 comments

How do I eliminate audio interference on a 5.8GHz network?

I'm getting tons of audio interference from my 5.8GHz audio transmitters and I've tried everything I can think of - does anyone have experience with this? [more inside]
posted by trevs44 at 5:38 PM PST - 6 comments

Aren't Blue Laws Unconstitutional?

Aren't blue laws essentially religious laws and therefore unconstitutional? [more inside]
posted by luke1249 at 5:34 PM PST - 27 comments

A date with the Supreme Court

How can we see a specific oral argument at the Supreme Court? [more inside]
posted by wocka wocka wocka at 4:56 PM PST - 10 comments

How do I get medical tape off a toddler?

Tape off a toddler? [more inside]
posted by staggering termagant at 4:54 PM PST - 15 comments

How are cookies used to collect demographic information?

Metafilter (and other sites') traffic demographics: How are cookies or other means used to collection this kind of information? [more inside]
posted by GnomeChompsky at 4:51 PM PST - 8 comments

I know when my coffee table was born, but I can't find its mother.

Can someone help me identify the manufacturer of this coffee table? [more inside]
posted by kscottz at 4:47 PM PST - 7 comments

Books about coming back to the world?

Book Recommendation Filter: Please recommend books about recovering from trauma and reintegrating back into normal life and society. Experiences like cults, prison, war, abusive relationships, etc. where the person feels isolated from "normal" people. I'm looking for fiction especially but any genre is helpful.
posted by Dilemma at 4:35 PM PST - 20 comments

Help me make sure that my camera battery is still alive when I reach Everest Base Camp!

Looking for recommendations for solar powered chargers that will charge my camera battery and will work while hiking... [more inside]
posted by finding.perdita at 4:31 PM PST - 5 comments

Normal wedding jitters, or a sign of bad things to come?

I’m engaged. Wedding date is set, I have my dress and all our vendors are booked. But, thinking about life with my fiancé is scaring me. Is this normal pre-wedding jitters, my own anxiety, or a sign that we aren’t right for each other? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:27 PM PST - 62 comments

Help me figure out where I'm going (or could go, at least)

I'm more than halfway through a law degree that I started for all the wrong reasons, and I'm confused as to where I should go from here - I need some help figuring out what my options are [more inside]
posted by sartre08 at 4:04 PM PST - 9 comments

Advanced After Effects classes in NYC?

Advanced After Effects classes in NYC? [more inside]
posted by mattsweaters at 3:39 PM PST - 1 comment

Recommend me some old classic "New Yorker style" nonfiction that is still relevant and readable now.

Recommend me some classic "New Yorker style" nonfiction that's aged well and stayed readable. Special snowbookflakeworm within. [more inside]
posted by nebulawindphone at 3:10 PM PST - 38 comments

Buenos Aires vacation with a 20-month-old?

Buenos Aires vacation with a 20-month-old: where to stay, what to do? [more inside]
posted by gottabefunky at 2:23 PM PST - 5 comments

Is my husband's abusive behavior bad enough to leave over?

Is my husband's abusive behavior bad enough to leave over? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:11 PM PST - 54 comments

Self care, without ibuprofen, for menstrual cramps?

Terrible menstrual cramps, and I can't take any pain reliever other than Tylenol (acetaminophen). What can I do right now at home (i.e., without a prescription/doctor) to ease the pain? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:11 PM PST - 59 comments

Grad school advice?

My graduate school orientation is Wednesday and I'm getting nervous. Overeducated Mefites, I'd love any advice you have to offer! [more inside]
posted by honeydew at 1:58 PM PST - 25 comments

Philosophy of Law reading list?

I'm interested in Philosophy of Law / Jurisprudence. What primary materials should be on a reading list fit for a semester-long 400-level university course? [more inside]
posted by Picklegnome at 1:53 PM PST - 10 comments

Help me make an awesome flash demo of our software

I need to create a promo video for our software and I'm looking for examples for inspiration. This demo will live on our website. What are some of the best done 3-4 minute software demos / promos that you've seen online? Or what advice do you have? I have Adobe Captivate to work with. In the past I have done this with screenshots and Microsoft Movie Maker. Captivate seems to give me a whole lot more options, maybe too many as I'm having a hard time deciding how to do this. I've looked at our competitors websites and the offerings there are amateurish and somewhat embarrassing. I can do much better, and I'm not even particularly good at this stuff. I don't want this to be an in depth demo. I'm trying to do more of a commercial, for lack of a better term.
posted by COD at 1:53 PM PST - 4 comments

I'm not eligible for re-hire. How do I get a job?!?

I am about to do a second-round interview tomorrow at a place I'd like to work and seems like a good match for me. However, I'm not eligible for rehire at my previous employer, and I'm worried how to nip this inevitable discovery in the bud. [more inside]
posted by juniperesque at 1:15 PM PST - 13 comments

Prioritizing self-improvement

OK, so I have a bunch of stuff I need to work on. I’m about to turn 40 and I’m flush with motivation. Tackle everything at once or pick my battles? [more inside]
posted by libraryhead at 12:56 PM PST - 26 comments

What midi controller do you use with Logic?

What's the best midi keyboard controller to use with Logic 9? [more inside]
posted by fantasticninety at 12:41 PM PST - 4 comments

Why does my joint suddenly forget it's supposed to bend that direction?

You know that pain when you go to shift your body position and it suddenly feels like your leg, knee, arm, shoulder (or whatever) moved slightly out of joint and if you straighten it out, it will snap? [more inside]
posted by Eicats at 12:25 PM PST - 9 comments

How can I find doggy day care in CA (don't say search the internet!)

Can someone help me find doggy day care in Santa Clarita, CA (yes i already looked on the internet and the chamber of commerce)
posted by let444 at 12:20 PM PST - 6 comments

First time renting questions in Tampa, FL

I'm looking to rent a house in Tampa, FL (to live in, not a vacation), but I'm not sure where to start looking. I see all kinds of listings online, but I have no way of judging the worth of these - they look like cross linking listing spam and they make me hesitant to trust them. This is the first place I'm renting - everywhere else I've lived has been with friends and family. Where do I start? Suggestions on people to talk to or places to look for decent homes for rent? Also: What questions should I be asking prospective landlords?
posted by Ikazuchi at 11:58 AM PST - 6 comments

Currying favor in Seattle

What is the best source of kaffir lime leaves and holy basil in Seattle? [more inside]
posted by Blazecock Pileon at 11:56 AM PST - 10 comments

Help me clean my floors!

My roommate and her dogs are finally moving out. Now how do I rehabilitate the floors in my house? [more inside]
posted by elsietheeel at 11:43 AM PST - 10 comments

cell phone insurance under home owner insurance?

Cell phone insurance under home owner insurance? Has anyone tried this? Is it worth it? I signed up for cell phone insurance with Verizon and naively thought it would be worth it (even for a smartphone). Like anything, I know you need to pay something to get something, but $8/mo + $90 for a claim every time could get pretty expensive. If it helps, I have State Farm. We've been with them for 15 years or so.
posted by isoman2kx at 11:30 AM PST - 19 comments

Please recommend some television shows to me

Please recommend some good television with brilliant characters and no cliffhangers. [more inside]
posted by giggleknickers at 11:26 AM PST - 50 comments

Banks in the USA 3 part question: locations and ratings

Banks in the USA 3 part question: locations and ratings [more inside]
posted by artlung at 11:20 AM PST - 10 comments

Please recommend a real estate or tax attorney in Phoenix, Arizona.

Please recommend a real estate or tax attorney in Phoenix, Arizona. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 11:19 AM PST - 1 comment

Getting an outside perspective: career boards.

What are some good and very active career-focused message boards? [more inside]
posted by Tehhund at 11:15 AM PST - 3 comments

Beyond Barron's

Please recommend the best online sources for ongoing investment advice, free or paid? [more inside]
posted by beagle at 11:15 AM PST - 13 comments

General and Specific Questions about Improving a Blog Design and Layout

I have some questions about the layout and features of my blog (hosted on blogspot). [more inside]
posted by andoatnp at 11:13 AM PST - 1 comment

How often in the steam room?

How often should you use the steam room? I just recently discovered the steam room at my gym and I love it. I'm just wondering how many times a week is healthy to use it? I've been going to the gym 5 or 6 days a week and hitting the steam room every time. Is this okay?
posted by AngryLlama at 11:11 AM PST - 3 comments

City Mouse needs to chill

Help me relax and enjoy a long weekend in the country. The lonely, no cell signal, no internet country... [more inside]
posted by pointystick at 10:47 AM PST - 21 comments

Need to raise some cash fast

I need to make US$1000 before the end of the month. [more inside]
posted by vignettist at 10:33 AM PST - 49 comments

Can you recommend a therapist in New York for anxiety?

Can anyone recommend a good therapist for anxiety issues in New York City? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 10:13 AM PST - 6 comments

Marijuana Piece Suggestions

I recently started medicating with medicinal marijuana. What piece would you recommend the most within the $75-125 range? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 10:06 AM PST - 9 comments

Ticks Everywhere

Brown Dog Ticks: Disgusting and everywhere. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 10:06 AM PST - 9 comments

Broadband shmroadband -- how do I track how slow my laptop runs?

How do I track how slow my laptop really is going? [more inside]
posted by zooropa at 9:43 AM PST - 7 comments

Floor tile: How much higher can one tile be than another? How to document the difference?

I'm looking for (tiling) industry standards for acceptable amounts of lippage (one tile higher than the one next to it) for 12"x12" granite tile. Also, what's the best way to a) Measure and b) photograph the amount of lippage? [more inside]
posted by If only I had a penguin... at 9:03 AM PST - 3 comments

Argh blargh economy

Soon-to-be college graduate strategy: move and then look for jobs, or look for jobs and then move? [more inside]
posted by showbiz_liz at 8:58 AM PST - 20 comments

I wanna stop washing that gray right outta my hair!

Should I let my hair go gray? And if so, what's the best way to go about it? [more inside]
posted by cottonswab at 8:57 AM PST - 43 comments

The Coolest Bed

Help me have the coolest (as in temperature), breathable bed. [more inside]
posted by edmz at 8:56 AM PST - 8 comments

Best before on dry goods?

What's the best-before date on dry goods? Specifically: oats, bulgur, nutritional yeast, cocoa, whole wheat flour, rice and bread crumbs? [more inside]
posted by nicoleincanada at 8:50 AM PST - 8 comments

The Search For an Artsy/Bloggy New Home

[Movingfilter] Which city would be best for an early-sixties blogger/artist couple to move to: Santa Fe, Albuquerque, Boulder, or Austin (or perhaps an alternative we haven't thought of)? My parents are moving back to the US after being out of the country for ten years. My mother is a successful blogger and researcher, and my father is an artist. They are interesting folks. [more inside]
posted by wondershrew with a helping of potato salad at 8:37 AM PST - 31 comments

Where to buy fireworks off-season in Texas?

Buying fireworks off-season in Texas (specifically Dallas-Ft.Worth area)? [more inside]
posted by monkeybutt at 8:35 AM PST - 4 comments

Cats are weird. Can the weirdness be tamed?

Another crazy cat question - yay! How can I convince my crazy cat to actually let me near her? Skittish is one thing... this is odd. Special kitty snowflake details included, of course. [more inside]
posted by cgg at 8:29 AM PST - 11 comments

Move in or break up?

Am I chasing the impossible dream by giving up on this relationship? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:24 AM PST - 30 comments

Breaking up: yes, hard to do.

How can I do this break-up right? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:24 AM PST - 12 comments

Really just want to take some cute pictures of my kid.

I want to buy an entry-level dSLR for everyday toddler/family pictures. Should I go with a Nikon D80 or a Canon Rebel Xsi? And which lens(es)? [more inside]
posted by Bardolph at 8:07 AM PST - 31 comments

Help us deal with our black sheep Meetup member

What to do about Meetup member that ruins everything? [more inside]
posted by idle at 8:02 AM PST - 29 comments

ISO Blogs About Books About Mental Health/Psychology

Anyone know of any good blogs that focus on books about mental health, addictions, neuroscience, psychology? NOT looking for blogs about those subjects in general, but seek only blogs about new and interesting books that cover these topics. Blogs about health books in general are also of interest. Thank you, Hive Mind!!!
posted by Maias at 7:48 AM PST - 3 comments

Remote control rescue?

Can the infrared light of a tv remote control be seen by airborne rescue personnel? [more inside]
posted by looknevada at 7:15 AM PST - 6 comments

Why does my cat hate my chest?

Odd cat behavior question. Can anyone explain to me exactly why one of our cats will simply NOT climb up on me in the bed? Even though she's all over my girlfriend.. it has both of us perplexed. There will be all sorts of background information inside. [more inside]
posted by darknemus at 7:13 AM PST - 20 comments

Apartment issues (continued...)

I think my new apartment has a moisture and possibly a mold problem...what steps should I take? [more inside]
posted by pilibeen at 6:56 AM PST - 6 comments

Will I paralyze myself and everyone I know with these pickled beans?

How can I fix this beginner's canning SNAFU? [more inside]
posted by ferociouskitty at 6:41 AM PST - 15 comments

Good doctor in Dupont Circle?

Can you recommend a good general practitioner in DC? [more inside]
posted by gabrielsamoza at 6:41 AM PST - 4 comments

Bootable Ubuntu Flash drive

Booting Ubuntu from a USB flash drive [more inside]
posted by Scoops at 6:40 AM PST - 9 comments

I want to drown in the dialogue of our time

Where do the über-smart people collaborate and hold dialogue online? [more inside]
posted by TheOtherSide at 6:21 AM PST - 37 comments

How do you create a successful web series?

A friend is going to be in a web series starting this fall. What things should they do to make the series successful? What even counts as successful for a web series? Any tips or red flags? Any suggestions about where to post (Vimeo/YouTube/other), marketing tips, or other suggestions from the Hive Mind greatly appreciated.
posted by nometa at 5:34 AM PST - 5 comments

How to not write a DJ-profile

What are some common clichés, patterns, or unwritten rules that you find in profiles/bios for DJs? I'm putting together a bit of writing on how DJs are marketed through the strategic presentation of their biographical information. Some examples inside. [more inside]
posted by LMGM at 5:22 AM PST - 8 comments

How to exit a disagreeable contract?

My future supervisor just walked out on me during an employee meeting. Can I break my contract and leave? [more inside]
posted by Keysig at 4:48 AM PST - 21 comments

This is why I should learn how to bake.

Can people help me find a central London bakery that sells cakes which are (1) delicious, (2) medium-sized and (3) not overly expensive? [more inside]
posted by Ziggy500 at 4:20 AM PST - 14 comments

Best method for typsetting music

What is the best text-based typesetting software for music? [more inside]
posted by a womble is an active kind of sloth at 3:27 AM PST - 6 comments

moving

Savannahfilter - can anyone advise on good areas to move into ? [more inside]
posted by sgt.serenity at 3:26 AM PST - 1 comment

Are Rollei's digital cameras rebadged?

Are modern Rollei digital point 'n shoots manufactured by someone else, and if so who? [more inside]
posted by unmake at 3:04 AM PST - 3 comments

Keep the evil motherfuckers away from me.

I just found my apartment building listed on the Bedbug Registry. How freaked out do I need to be? What can I do? [more inside]
posted by mellifluous at 2:38 AM PST - 7 comments

How do I get over this?

How do I get over this? A never-defined relationship and an abrupt end. [more inside]
posted by p1nkdaisy at 2:06 AM PST - 15 comments

Too much agony over simple essays.

Because of the death of my mother just before finals I have an extension on three essays from one class-- that I've put off the entire summer. Should I brace myself and write them, or do I tell the professor that I just want the last semester to disappear even if I receive an F grade? [more inside]
posted by SallySpades at 2:03 AM PST - 20 comments

Good old US Snacks!

What are good things to include in a care package from the US to Korea? [more inside]
posted by Widepath at 2:03 AM PST - 6 comments

Outlook fails to render HTML email at all, reckons it's plain text, displays source.

TechFilter: Outlook on one laptop is displaying the source of some incoming HTML emails as the email instead of rendering it. Anyone met this before? [more inside]
posted by krisjohn at 1:44 AM PST - 6 comments

What kind of bug is this??

What kind of bug is this? [more inside]
posted by overthrow at 1:11 AM PST - 1 comment

How effective is scar removal these days?

Is there a procedure to get rid of my scars? [more inside]
posted by ilovehistory at 1:09 AM PST - 8 comments

Alternatives to Le Creuset?

Alternatives to Le Creuset? [more inside]
posted by monkey closet at 12:56 AM PST - 30 comments

Looking for job experiences involving human factors or education that will help me decide which field of study to pursue.

Pre-Graduate School Question: I am interested in both human factors and education/education administration. Do you have a job related to either of these fields in some way? Can you provide a small window into this current or past job and help me decide which (if either) field to pursue? [more inside]
posted by Defenestrator at 12:02 AM PST - 4 comments

August 15

Help! Bedbugs in my brand-new place!

I've got bedbugs in my 6 month old brand-new condo. What now? [more inside]
posted by ninefour at 11:27 PM PST - 14 comments

Help me host my first ever proper, grown-up party!

I want to host a tasteful grown-up party. I have never done this before... [more inside]
posted by JoannaC at 10:51 PM PST - 13 comments

Ingredients that were just meant for each other.

At some stage I remember seeing a web page (*maybe* on AskMefi) going through amazing classic food pairings of ingredients that were just meant for each other, for example: tomato and parmesan; coffee and chocolate; wine and cheese; shrimp/ prawns and chili. I think that the framing of the idea behind this list was that tomato and parmesan were proof that god existed and loved us (a bit of a riff on the Ben Franklin beer quote). Does this ring a bell for anyone and can you find the source?
posted by Alice Russel-Wallace at 10:38 PM PST - 9 comments

Cake Decorating Help Needed!

I want to make something special for my mother's upcoming birthday. I've been looking around and I got inspired to make a cake with rad decorations on it. I've got a few questions tough, namely regarding icing, and I'd love some pointers. [more inside]
posted by CelebrenIthil at 10:29 PM PST - 6 comments

Death on "Fantasy Island"?

The Wikipedia entry for the 1970s show "Fantasy Island" says that "in some cases, people got themselves killed," meaning, presumably, guests of Mr. Roarke. It's not backed up with a citation. I think I vaguely remember some "Fantasy Island" episodes that turned pretty dark, but did Roarke ever let his clients DIE while on a fantasy? I'm looking for exact episode names and brief plot descriptions. (Note: I think some guests were terminally ill, and may have died from their illness, but that seems like a different matter to me.)
posted by GaelFC at 9:30 PM PST - 2 comments

What can you tell me about these three men?

Can you tell me anything about this picture? [more inside]
posted by tomwheeler at 9:03 PM PST - 17 comments

Will a liquid diet change my life?

I’m considering enrolling in a medically supervised liquid diet program. What do I need to know? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:40 PM PST - 18 comments

Ryokan in Nagano region

We are going to Japan in October, and feeling lost on figuring out a ryokan in the mountains. Please help, or point us to a travel agent that can. [more inside]
posted by ch1x0r at 8:12 PM PST - 16 comments

Am I ruining my drip machine?

I make my morning coffee in a French press, but then I keep it hot by pouring it into the carafe of my drip machine while it's switched on. Is this somehow going to damage my coffee maker if I don't have any water in the reservoir? I just want the hot plate to keep it warm. Relevant info: I have the Michael Graves coffee maker from Target.
posted by extramundane at 7:57 PM PST - 14 comments

How can I get my brother out of my mom's apartment?

How can I get my violent brother out of my mom's senior apartment? Social workers, especially those who work with the elderly, your help is greatly needed. [more inside]
posted by The Light Fantastic at 7:32 PM PST - 14 comments

Should I be tipping Dr. Sofa?

Should I be tipping Dr. Sofa? [more inside]
posted by oinopaponton at 7:18 PM PST - 6 comments

Do you know the measurements for Ikea Billy shelf support pins?

We recently moved and I've misplaced the metal shelf support pins for our Ikea Billy bookcases, so I'm trying to order replacements. Does anyone know the diameter and length of the pins (they look like this image.) Thanks!
posted by apennington at 7:14 PM PST - 13 comments

phD in Canada/ permanent residency

I have two seemingly separate questions that are connected: 1. Are Canadian phD programs in music as good as the ones in the US, especially in terms of job placement? 2. Can you defer phD acceptance and/or take a leave of absence during phD years? 3. Do universities sponsor US work visas? [more inside]
posted by atetrachordofthree at 7:04 PM PST - 9 comments

Action steps every day or insanity. Pick one.

I have decided to significantly alter my career path. There's no urgency except for that which I self-impose: That is, I want to be taking real steps towards change each and every day to maintain my sanity (and therefore my paycheck) in my current career. And then I'll jump ship a little bit before it feels safe to do so. [more inside]
posted by zeek321 at 6:57 PM PST - 13 comments

Does this make a nerd and a geek?

I want to have my DS and my laptop talk to each other. Is this even possible? [more inside]
posted by wayland at 6:49 PM PST - 5 comments

gravel invaded by weeds!

any advice on the best way to reclaim a gravel parking area from the weeds? [more inside]
posted by hollyanderbody at 6:49 PM PST - 10 comments

Japanese History for the Uninformed

I have just finished The 1000 Autumns of Jacob De Zoet by David Mitchell and realize that I do not know as much Japanese history as I would like. What should I read? [more inside]
posted by readery at 6:48 PM PST - 13 comments

What is the specific name for this haircut?

Is this a Mississippi Mudflap? Do the lines in the side affect the category of mullet it fits into?
posted by Glendale at 6:33 PM PST - 10 comments

Lowbrow art image galleries?

Where can I find image galleries of the kind of art featured in Juxtapoz magazine (I guess lowbrow art would be the catch-all term), preferably in high resolution and without obvious watermarks?
posted by dino terror at 6:17 PM PST - 3 comments

What flower is this?

What kind of flower is this? [more inside]
posted by byrleyar at 5:40 PM PST - 11 comments

Flowers and chocolates send the wrong impression -- what are some cool thank you / thinking of you / humorous friend gifts?

What are some quirky, interesting, funny or sweet gifts to give people thanking them for being awesome? [more inside]
posted by jkl345 at 5:40 PM PST - 14 comments

What does "integrated" mean in a psychological sense?

What does it mean when my therapist calls me "integrated"? [more inside]
posted by mpls2 at 5:02 PM PST - 14 comments

An ass recommends donkey-voting

What would happen if every Australian 'donkey-voted' this Saturday? [more inside]
posted by malibustacey9999 at 4:53 PM PST - 26 comments

Linux OCR

Linux script to parse all files in file tree and submit to a program? [more inside]
posted by yoyo_nyc at 3:16 PM PST - 12 comments

Please recommend a reliable midsize motorcycle.

Will some of Ask's motorcycle gang please being me up to speed on the availability of a particular kind of bike? I'm looking for an around-town middleweight like the Triumph 650 I rode in college but I'm looking first of all for capital-R Reliability. I do want adequate performance, for situations like matching the speed of oncoming traffic in a short merging lane, but I'm not looking for performance of the wheelie pulling, eyeball flattening kind. What I don't want is any more experience sitting in an ever-spreading Triumph/BSA/Norton pool of oil setting valve train tolerances, after having just set them two days ago. Had enough of that to last a lifetime, thanks. [more inside]
posted by jfuller at 3:01 PM PST - 26 comments

I wanna make a photogram!

So I want to make a photogram. I remember having small (perhaps 8" x 8") blue photo sensitive papers in a kit as a kid -- it involved nothing more than unsealing the package, putting objects on the paper and setting it outside for an hour or so in the sunlite, resulting in white silhouettes of whatever objects were placed on it. I have found sites selling kits like that which seem geared toward kids, but I'm wondering where I might be able to find larger sheets of this type of paper. I also don't really know much about the process, but I am looking for something easy (no development equipment needed). I think it would be great to do a large-scale image in this way -- I mean, can I get a large roll of this type of paper, or something poster-sized?
posted by jeroum at 2:58 PM PST - 12 comments

Art Deco Switchplate

Where can I find more switchplates like this? It's metal, something heavy, so not aluminum. Kinda art-deco style.
posted by allelopath at 2:51 PM PST - 8 comments

Peach pie

I've just been given an enormous box of peaches, far more than I can eat. Please to share your best recipes for peach pie, peach cobbler, and other peachy desserts.
posted by killdevil at 2:41 PM PST - 34 comments

Damaged Discs from Netflix?

I've been getting DVDs from Netflix recently that are cracked, scratched and otherwise unplayable. They always offer to send a repacement but what a pain it is to plan to watch in the evening only to find it won't play. Has anyone else experienced a rise in the number of damaged discs being received? When I called, admittedly a bit hot under the collar, to complain the Netflix CSR listened, briefly, but when I asked if Netflix had deliberately decided to stop inspecting discs for damage before mailing out to customers my call got seamlessly switched to National Car Rental. So much for customer service at Netflix!
posted by NorthCoastCafe at 2:37 PM PST - 43 comments

BEST Eats in Vegas?

Help me plan a dream weekend in Vegas for a Foodie's 40th birthday!! [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:23 PM PST - 21 comments

healthinsurance student

How to go about getting inexpensive health insurance as a student? [more inside]
posted by DeltaForce at 2:14 PM PST - 15 comments

Give me all sorts of violin music.

Tracks/artists that help showcase the full range of violin music? [more inside]
posted by jsturgill at 1:26 PM PST - 29 comments

Providence, Rhode Island? Couldn't you have gotten any farther away from me?

How do I reconcile my decision to get far, far away from home with my mother's belief that I'm doing it out of spite? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 12:57 PM PST - 34 comments

Advice on the best oven / microwave combo? Thoughts on the Neff H5972N0GB?

In our kitchen remodelling plans, there is no space for a microwave so we're thinking of a built-in combo. That is, an oven that also works as a microwave. Which? gives the Neff H5972N0GB a good rating but I wanted a second opinion by the Metafilter Braintrust :)
posted by kiwi.es at 12:47 PM PST - 8 comments

Help me find this great science fiction novel, please

Bookfilter: In 2007 I read the first part of a science fiction novel that I would really love to find again. I'm pretty sure the basic premise was that the book was a historical/academic biography about a famous general or other important figure in a future (possibly post-apocalyptic) America. More half remembered details below! [more inside]
posted by cimton at 12:46 PM PST - 12 comments

Help me not resent SO's success

How do I avoid becoming resentful of SO's brilliant career when mine is failing to launch? [more inside]
posted by copperbleu at 12:29 PM PST - 17 comments

Batch-scanning a truck load of scene photographs- any advice?

(batchscanningfilter) So I have recently agreed to scan in a friend's photo archive of our local music scene (He pretty much 'ran' the scene for the past 25 years)... we're talking thousands of photos here.... I have a few questions...... [more inside]
posted by peewinkle at 12:22 PM PST - 10 comments

Help me learn how to read in moving vehicles without feeling sick.

I envy people who can read in cars, buses and subway trains without getting nauseous. Why is it that some people can do this, while others can't? How can I be more like them? [more inside]
posted by iamkimiam at 12:13 PM PST - 24 comments

Ultra local consumerism.

Where are the best thrift stores, farmers' markets and flea/street markets in Chicago? [more inside]
posted by cmoj at 12:02 PM PST - 16 comments

Why doesn't the restored window come to the front?

My wife has a Macbook with OS 10.5.7 that she got from her school (she's a teacher). Sometimes she'll have a number of word documents open and some of them will be minimized. She'll be looking at a word document and decide she wants to restore one of the minimized word documents, but when she does, the window she restores goes behind the window that's open instead of coming to the front. [more inside]
posted by SeeTheTurtle at 11:59 AM PST - 7 comments

Innocent or sinister?

What did I see happening at 2am in Cuernavaca last night? [more inside]
posted by molecicco at 11:50 AM PST - 6 comments

Big disk problems

Help me make a great big disk [more inside]
posted by Crotalus at 11:15 AM PST - 10 comments

Did I make a mistake, are my standards too high?

I made the right decision here right? Or my standards too high and I'll die lonely, missed by no one? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 11:10 AM PST - 27 comments

What's this old machine?

What is this big vise like machine I found? It's about 5 feet tall. The lever at the top turns the screw which makes the top jaw close. The jaws toothed and diamond shape. There's another bar on the right that rotates. What else can I do with it besides it's original purpose?
posted by jefftang at 11:07 AM PST - 5 comments

Aleksandar Hemon and other former Yugoslavia authors

I'm a big fan of the author Aleksandar Hemon, especially The Question of Bruno, and wondering what former Yugoslav authors he would have read growing up. [more inside]
posted by Ideal Impulse at 10:54 AM PST - 1 comment

How can I make a living doing what I love?

How can I make a living doing what I love? My almost-50 birthday is this week. Several years ago I quit my job to start a new career. I still have little idea how to make money from what I want to do. I'd hate to go back to my former career, and I can't imagine who would hire a man nearing 50, who hasn't had a job in years... [more inside]
posted by ifnot at 10:52 AM PST - 12 comments

Help me make the most of this old stove

Old stove with two mystery components [more inside]
posted by ryanshepard at 10:29 AM PST - 7 comments

Help me stay awake!

Narcolepsy, excessive daytime sleepiness, etc.: Aside from medication, how do you deal? [more inside]
posted by overyourhead at 10:20 AM PST - 11 comments

iCal event templates

How can I create event templates in iCal? [more inside]
posted by jjbb at 10:15 AM PST - 1 comment

Making a Profit With a Fast Food Franchise

How long would it take to become profitable with a fast food franchise? [more inside]
posted by purefusion at 9:58 AM PST - 11 comments

M*A*S*H

I'm feeling nostalgic, so am making my way through the M*A*S*H series on dvd. It's funny and heartwarming, but was anyone on the show faithful to his/her partner back home? [more inside]
posted by analog at 9:48 AM PST - 25 comments

portable wifi?

Work will be buying me a portable hotspot device. I don't know much about them except that I'd rather not install any client software. So...hivemind...what is my best portable wifi option?
posted by toastchee at 8:48 AM PST - 9 comments

Baby's learning Final Cut

The second small bedroom was an editing suite/video room, but soon the baby will arrive. Are there good examples of dual use rooms that're half baby/half studio in small spaces? [more inside]
posted by history is a weapon at 8:45 AM PST - 17 comments

Program to vote on wedding music?

Need a program to help me let people vote on wedding music. [more inside]
posted by no bueno at 8:45 AM PST - 15 comments

How do I learn to make short movies?

I'm an engineer wanting to explore my creative side a bit via making short films aimed at online viewing via YouTube or whatever. I've got the high-end Macintosh but I need (1) a camera (hopefully better than my old MiniDV camcorder), (2) software (Final Cut Express or similar, I suppose), and (3) skill in the mechanics of filming and editing and in the technique of story telling. In other words, I need to learn how to operate the camera and editing software but I also need to learn what I want to do with it. I'd appreciate suggestions for any of this stuff but pointers on good books or whatever for learning the skills would be really nice.
posted by LastOfHisKind at 8:41 AM PST - 9 comments

How to find all roots of a function in two variables?

I've got a long function with two variables, encoding - I suspect - a hidden message. Most likely, the message is somehow encoded in the function's roots. Is there any good software to plot a function in two dimensions and only show the points where it evaluates to zero? [more inside]
posted by Triton at 8:18 AM PST - 7 comments

Help me trick out my indie video studio, please.

I'm planning on making an indie documentary. Help me figure out what I need in terms of equipment. [more inside]
posted by jbickers at 7:56 AM PST - 10 comments

Checking a second bag from Europe to the U.S. on a two leg flight

How much am I going to be charged for checking a second bag in Economy class? [more inside]
posted by pianohands at 7:52 AM PST - 8 comments

How do I deal with my Lawyer in this situation?

My lawyer is holding a garnishment her office managed to get from ex h's bank. She is requiring me to sign the garnishment completely over to her for her to go toward her fees...but the ex is supposed to be responsible for her fees. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:40 AM PST - 29 comments

Like ironing to flatten out the wrinkles in my life

I'm a bit disorganised and sometimes a bit depressed, and I think I want to advertise for someone to come over once a week and spend maybe two hours helping me to do all of the practical things I need to do - paying bills, applying for courses I want to do, and the like. Is this the worst idea ever? [more inside]
posted by Acheman at 6:33 AM PST - 15 comments

"The Domesday Book"? Or "Domesday Book"?

"The Domesday Book"? Or "Domesday Book"? Does it matter? And why? [more inside]
posted by cromagnon at 5:55 AM PST - 10 comments

Best way to get football tickets in Madrid?

What's the best way (i.e., least expensive and safest) to get tickets for the Atletico Madrid vs. Barcelona football/soccer game? [more inside]
posted by ciocarlia at 5:05 AM PST - 0 comments

Aggregated local news without Football and syndicated content

I'd like some way to find aggregated local news rather than having to go to each local newspaper site individually. I am generally pretty happy with Google news at the big story level but it fails at the Birmingham, UK level where pretty much the only news it ever picks up is the national paper's coverage of the football teams. [more inside]
posted by srboisvert at 4:53 AM PST - 4 comments

Taking a gander.

What do you look for on a preliminary walk-through of a potential income-producing real estate investment? Which features are definite positives? Which features are red flags? [more inside]
posted by Gordion Knott at 4:44 AM PST - 8 comments

iTunes plug-in to auto-detect BPM

Does anyone know of an iTunes plug-in that will auto-detect the BPM of all songs BMP and add it to the file's ID tags in iTunes? [more inside]
posted by beemsterman at 4:02 AM PST - 9 comments

Girl Power With Bite

I'm looking for TV shows where the heroine has a wry/dry/snarky sense of humor and is competent in her own right. Basically, I'm nostalgic for girl power with bite a la Veronica Mars. [more inside]
posted by jyorraku at 1:54 AM PST - 68 comments

August 14

can i sell a map based on a usgs map?

I've created a map based on two usgs 7.5minute topographical maps and years of MY data plotted on them. I think outdoors people would buy this map... Can i Sell it? Do i need permission from the USGS? What is the copyright on a usgs map? [more inside]
posted by Paleoindian at 10:42 PM PST - 2 comments

A "Facebook-like" secure site that a non-programmer could build?

Is there an easy file-sharing/discussion tool or Dreamweaver template that I can use instead of allowing my company to use Facebook for the more simple purposes of Facebook? [more inside]
posted by xingcat at 10:38 PM PST - 9 comments

Raccoons during the daytime

Raccoons during the daytime -- dangerous? [more inside]
posted by whiskeyspider at 10:04 PM PST - 15 comments

breakfast cereal upsets my stomach

Why does this breakfast cereal upset my stomach, despite all of its ingredients appearing to be safe for me? [more inside]
posted by germdisco at 9:52 PM PST - 10 comments

I didn't know they made melon ballers that small

Eye injury? ER now, urgent care tomorrow, regular doc Monday, or relax-it'll-be-fine? [more inside]
posted by galadriel at 9:46 PM PST - 18 comments

What should my friend name his dog?

What should my friend name his VERY SMALL, MALE, Chihuahua? [more inside]
posted by learninguntilidie at 9:43 PM PST - 88 comments

Where should we go on a relaxing, interesting, honeymoon without getting sunburned?

Where should we go on a relaxing, interesting, honeymoon without getting sunburned? [more inside]
posted by NHlove at 8:58 PM PST - 26 comments

How does the Chinese political system work?

I'd like to know how the Chinese political system works. [more inside]
posted by bindasj at 8:42 PM PST - 24 comments

When are the Blue Angels flying?

When are the Blue Angels flying tomorrow at the Chicago Air and Water Show? [more inside]
posted by Carillon at 8:31 PM PST - 4 comments

Here we go gathering...

What is this mystery nut? [more inside]
posted by zadcat at 7:58 PM PST - 7 comments

Help me keep it light and fun and make people smile

How do I become one of those people who makes everyone they talk to feel great? With bonus: how to manage the situation gracefully if this is taken as a come-on... [more inside]
posted by Chrysalis at 7:20 PM PST - 24 comments

Raw Milk NOT Weston Price

Is there a organization that advocates for the legality of selling raw dairy OTHER than the Weston Price Foundation?
posted by Leta at 7:15 PM PST - 3 comments

Federal Job Resume Builders

Has anyone used a professional resume service for US Federal jobs? I've seen previous mefi postings, but they seem to focus on the more creative aspects of resume writing. The Feds don't care about style; they will have a bureaucrat go through and tick off the boxes and give you a score. And having worked for Civil Services before, I know that what I think is relevant doesn't always fit the 'box' unless it's phrased just right. I'm looking at Federal Jobs Digest, and they charge $200 to $300. And I should say there's an assignment I really, really want (an overseas posting in Naples), so I can spend the money if these guys are legit.
posted by kanewai at 6:53 PM PST - 3 comments

No Signal

What is wrong with my new mobile phone? When my phone goes idle after 15 sec of no use (typical battery saving function) or loses the signal when I am in an elevator (typical situation but normally survivable), it won't automatically reconnect so it's like I don't even have a phone. How can I over come this? Is it normal for "newer" phones to constantly be searching for a signal yet not getting it or turning off like this? [more inside]
posted by peachtree at 6:45 PM PST - 2 comments

How do I organize my research project?

What's the best way to organize my research for a big proposal and presentation? [more inside]
posted by PandemicSoul at 5:45 PM PST - 3 comments

staying in a quirky place with all of my friends?

What cool places (that can occupy 15-30+ people) can I rent in the United States or Canada (similar to Shady Dell)? [more inside]
posted by three bear minimum at 5:44 PM PST - 9 comments

So who's been to The Refuge?

I'm looking for information about a music venue called The Refuge in Cupertino, CA. Has anyone heard of it? [more inside]
posted by mekily at 5:31 PM PST - 5 comments

How to deal with social grace-less boss?

Do you have any advice for me in this strained but simple social situation with coworkers & boss? [more inside]
posted by rio at 5:05 PM PST - 22 comments

When Internet businesses don't work out as planned...

At what point did you decide to give up on your Internet business? [more inside]
posted by Bacillus at 5:03 PM PST - 10 comments

Help me safely increse my non-meat protein intake

I'm considering going to a mostly meat-free diet, but I want to make sure that I still keep my protein intake up by supplementing with whey protein (up to about 80% of my total protein). Are there any health concerns here? [more inside]
posted by Dr. ShadowMask at 4:52 PM PST - 17 comments

Retailers going beyond barcodes

I want to make a list of all retailers (worldwide) that currently use or have played around with using RFID technology. I'm especially curious about fashion and apparel retailers, but any other ones will do. I have the basics: walmart, jcpenney, walgreens, etc. I've been up and down google, backwards and forwards, and it's pretty much impossible to get any sort of complete list. So, help me hive. [more inside]
posted by ttyn at 4:51 PM PST - 10 comments

Driving from MA to MT, suggestions for stops along the way

Recently divorced, 39, and moving from MA to MT in early Sept. I was planning on driving along the I-90. I'm trying to figure out what is worth visiting, and also where to stop/camp along the way. This is about a 3000 mile drive. And I'm hoping to drive around 600 miles a day, but this is adjustable to some extent. I wouldn't mind spending extra days in some locations if its worthwhile. One stop I plan to make will be Niagra Falls. (I also have both USA and Canadian Passports, so I can cross the border ok.) I hope to camp most of the way. I also have a large 80lb doberman-mix, which complicates things slightly. I'd be willing to get off the I-90 to see some things if its worth it. I'm not in a rush.. I'm more interested in things found in nature rather than city-life type stuff. But stopping in some big cities for some notable food or sites wouldn't be rejected outright.
posted by herox at 3:55 PM PST - 19 comments

Child Support Guideline Help!

Child support filter: Ex-husband voluntarily agreed 8 years ago to pay more than state minimum child support. Just got letter from his lawyer saying he wants to now pay state amount. [more inside]
posted by dzaz at 3:55 PM PST - 21 comments

Should I use a Hohner Special 20 or a Lee Oskar harmonica?

Should I use a Hohner Special 20 or a Lee Oskar harmonica? [more inside]
posted by Spamfactor at 3:40 PM PST - 7 comments

cash bar, wedding?

Should we have a cash bar at our wedding? [more inside]
posted by ljs30 at 3:23 PM PST - 153 comments

Mac and Cheeeeeeeeeeeeeese

I could use some help altering/combining some baked mac and cheese recipes! [more inside]
posted by kavasa at 3:18 PM PST - 10 comments

Help me with my lactose intolerance.

[DairyFilter] Which processed/pre-made foods have lactose in them? Which do not? [more inside]
posted by griphus at 2:00 PM PST - 19 comments

Where should I travel in Asia and the wider world between February and August 2011?

Where should I travel in Asia and the wider world between February and August 2011? Should I travel there and then at all? I'm trying to plan a round-the-world trip and am finding it very difficult. Apologies for my rambling question - I could really do with your help. [more inside]
posted by Kirn at 1:58 PM PST - 13 comments

Where to stay in Inverness, CA for a weekend?

Where to stay in Inverness, CA for a weekend? [more inside]
posted by bottlebrushtree at 1:52 PM PST - 4 comments

How to move to a cool area when you're young and broke and nervous

Doing my first house/apartment room hunting experience out of college and sort of unclear on the craigslist etiquette AND if I should even be looking. Would really appreciate input and advice. This is really long because I ramble...but I SWEAR it's good! [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 1:50 PM PST - 21 comments

What's a good DC metro station to test-ride a bike at?

DCFilter: I'm in DC, trying to buy a bike from someone on Craigslist. He's in VA. What's a good Metro station to meet at so I can test-ride the bike? While we're at it -- what are some things to be wary of when buying a used bike?
posted by Inigo Jones at 1:49 PM PST - 6 comments

Looking for reading on early modern Europe

Having just read Robert K. Massie's excellent biography of Peter the Great, I'm not looking for more reading on 17th and 18th century Europe. Suggestions? [more inside]
posted by resiny at 1:27 PM PST - 8 comments

Picture phone for elderly/senior products in Los Angeles

Picture phones for the elderly and places to buy them in Los Angles? [more inside]
posted by sdis at 1:26 PM PST - 1 comment

The Dish on Disney... cruises

Some specific questions about a Disney cruise... crowds? noise? motion? 11 year old fun? [more inside]
posted by ecorrocio at 1:21 PM PST - 9 comments

Moving AT&T internet service

I'm moving to a new apartment at the end of the month, and need to move my AT&T U-Verse High Speed Internet Pro service. Their website is very confusing. [more inside]
posted by little_c at 1:12 PM PST - 6 comments

How does stage lighting color work?

How does color-changing work in modern stage lighting? [more inside]
posted by smackfu at 1:08 PM PST - 9 comments

Help me choose some knee and akle braces.

Help me choose some knee and ankle braces. [more inside]
posted by GleepGlop at 12:47 PM PST - 6 comments

Why did the front loading washing machine destroy my pants?

I just moved to Europe from the US and used a front loading washing machine. Both pairs of pants in the last load now have tears along the sides of the back pockets. Argh! What am I doing wrong, so I can fix it for my next load? What else is essential information for front loading washing machines? Anything I can do to salvage the pants? [more inside]
posted by Peter Petridish at 12:47 PM PST - 19 comments

Am I a runner?

Would you consider me a "runner?" [more inside]
posted by gocubbies at 12:44 PM PST - 20 comments

Good games for an underpowered laptop?

Best PC-only games of the last few for an underpowered laptop? [more inside]
posted by empath at 12:21 PM PST - 18 comments

Should I buy a condo overseas?

Should I buy a condo overseas or live in the one my company provides? Special snowflake details within! [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 11:31 AM PST - 9 comments

Jesus Christ, who knew vacuum shopping could be so darn complicated?

Owners of bagged vacuum cleaners, how often do you find yourself changing the bag? [more inside]
posted by Sufi at 11:25 AM PST - 20 comments

Investing on (Great) Wall Street

Are there any online fantasy stock market simulations that let you invest in international stocks? Or, if not, Asian stocks? I currently use Vritual Stock Exchange, which is limited to NYSE stocks.
posted by dkleinst at 10:48 AM PST - 2 comments

I Thought Only Kids Got Cavities

Do I have terrible teeth? [more inside]
posted by musofire at 10:41 AM PST - 22 comments

Metra trip

Fun places to go on the Chicago-area commuter rail system? [more inside]
posted by LSK at 10:29 AM PST - 11 comments

I call him HURF DURF shark.

I baked a cake yesterday. I put a shark on top. The shark looks familiar, like he's a character from something, but since any resemblance was accidental I can't place him. Please look at it and tell me what he's from. [more inside]
posted by phunniemee at 10:25 AM PST - 23 comments

How do I monitor my internet connection?

I'm looking for a simple way to monitor internet connectivity. [more inside]
posted by rollick at 9:59 AM PST - 7 comments

How to negotiate settlement for pain & suffering from auto accident

Seeking advice on negotiating settlement for pain & suffering for an auto accident. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:56 AM PST - 19 comments

Please recommend restaurants and coffee shops in Louisville, KY

I'm looking for good but not expensive restaurants in Louisville; also coffeehouses that offer wifi. [more inside]
posted by Herkimer at 9:23 AM PST - 9 comments

MIDI to Casio lighted keys in real time?

If I send MIDI notes in real time to the MIDI in jack on a Casio LK series keyboard (with the lighted keys), will the keys light up? [more inside]
posted by DJ Broken Record at 9:19 AM PST - 6 comments

I did remember the cocktail umbrellas. Close one, I know.

Where can I find crazy straws around Herald Square/Madison Sq Garden? [more inside]
posted by troika at 8:39 AM PST - 8 comments

HuffPo for Canuck?

I'm a big fan of The Huffington Post. However, I'm Canadian, and am looking for something that features Canadian politics. Is there a site similar to Huffington Post that focusses on Canadian content?
posted by ms.v. at 8:31 AM PST - 9 comments

Should I stay or should I go?

I have been working for a design agency for five years. This was my first job out of college. It's the only job I've ever had. I'm stuck in a rut: should I stay or should I go? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:30 AM PST - 11 comments

What's it like to live in northeastern MA?

What's it like to live on the North Shore of Massachusetts? (And, if you have any experience with them, to work at a certain largeish information services company in Ipswich?) [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:30 AM PST - 8 comments

Can I get a MFT degree online

Can I get an online Master Degree as a MFT in the state of Nevada and will it be accepted for intership here in LV? [more inside]
posted by naylord at 8:30 AM PST - 4 comments

Affordable, tactile, quirky electronic noisemaking gadgets?

Please recommend me some affordable, tactile, quirky electronic instruments / noise making toys / effects. I already have a Korg Kaoss Pad 3, Alesis Air FX, and a Stylophone, and am going to buy a Korg Monotron - I'm looking for suggestions along similar lines. [more inside]
posted by iivix at 8:17 AM PST - 19 comments

Best iPhone apps and games for kids?

Got a transcontinental flight in a couple of hours with two adults, two kids and two iPhone 4s. What games or apps will delight, entertain, educate and otherwise keep a 5 and a 7 boy year old occupied? [more inside]
posted by digitalprimate at 7:56 AM PST - 16 comments

Sad Irish song

Irish song filter. Looking for a sad song heard in Boston, 94-95. Two boys growing up together, their fathers missing (prison?), build a snowman.
posted by LonnieK at 7:45 AM PST - 1 comment

progression of sexual activity

What is a common pace for the progression of sexual activity in a new relationship? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:12 AM PST - 30 comments

How Can I Miss You When You Won't Go Away?

Looking for outside perspective - why does this one particular ex insist on trying to initiate contact with me? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:11 AM PST - 12 comments

Does my power amp work?

I inherited a NAD 214 stereo power amplifier. I plugged it into power and the lights came on. In order to get it out of the house (spring cleaning) I listed it on ebay for $5 and said it powers up fine. But now it's getting lots of attention and I have people asking me if it works properly. [more inside]
posted by bingoes at 6:43 AM PST - 16 comments

Will carpet beetle eggs survive the move?

Exactly how fragile are black carpet beetle eggs? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 6:37 AM PST - 4 comments

Getting over rejection.

Met what I thought was the perfect guy for me, and then he disappeared. I feel heartbroken now, how do I get over this? Special snowflake details inside. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 6:37 AM PST - 11 comments

What's appropriate in the world of online dating?

OnlineDatingEtiquetteFilter: I'm somewhat new to the online dating scene, opting for free sites such as OKCupid. As a guy interested in women, there's a few points of etiquette that I'm just not exactly sure how to handle. A series of questions after the cut. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 6:36 AM PST - 30 comments

Website design for presenting an artist's work

Your favorite visual artist's website & why? [more inside]
posted by jammy at 6:35 AM PST - 2 comments

Article search - again

I'm looking for an article I read online within the past two years about a group of friends in their late 20s/early 30s who spend the weekend smoking/snorting some drug at a friend's house. I mostly remember the bizarre activities they got involved in and an impromptu trip to Las Vegas in the middle of the weekend. [more inside]
posted by anonymous78 at 6:31 AM PST - 3 comments

Open my eyes to proper broadband

After years of broadband with low download caps (currently 14gb/month), I finally will have 120gb/month from next month. How to take advantage of this new freedom? [more inside]
posted by kid A at 5:44 AM PST - 7 comments

Please help me remember a book.

Please help me remember a book I read as a child/teenager. [more inside]
posted by KChasm at 4:48 AM PST - 9 comments

Post-Grad Filter: Now that I'm out of college and determined not to fuck up any more, how do I plan for the rest of my life?

I graduated from Big Name U in May with 0 honors or distinctions, little work experience, a squishy liberal arts degree, and a barely acceptable G.P.A. I feel like I wasted a pretty big chunk of my life. Where do I go from here? [more inside]
posted by themaskedwonder at 4:14 AM PST - 13 comments

seven hours: some nudity

Matthew Barney's Cremaster Cycle looks intriguing. But seven hours is very big serve of repetitive, treacle slow performance art. [more inside]
posted by compound eye at 3:59 AM PST - 14 comments

Medical Volunteerism in Sud America

Dear Metafilter: help me find medical volunteer work in South America... [more inside]
posted by shokod at 2:01 AM PST - 4 comments

Must have awesome boots...

Where to buy Frye boots in Canada/websites that will ship to Canada? [more inside]
posted by keep it under cover at 12:38 AM PST - 7 comments

What are the best and most comfortable pillows that aren't overly expensive?

What are the best and most comfortable pillows that aren't overly expensive? [more inside]
posted by libbrichus at 12:36 AM PST - 12 comments

August 13

Video of high-def photo-overlay technology

Looking for a video of a technology demo, which uses high-def photos to add details to video by intelligently overlaying the photo on the video and deforming the photos as the video moves. I vaguely recall it as being TED-talk-like, with shots of a (young, possibly Asian?) guy at a podium and shots of the video in action. My google-fu is failing me.
posted by cthuljew at 11:33 PM PST - 4 comments

Playlist help!

Playlist help: 40-something mom's relaxed birthday brunch. [more inside]
posted by R a c h e l at 10:52 PM PST - 18 comments

What is the best way to describe my future ambitions in my personal statement on my MLIS application?

I am applying to a competitive MLIS program in a couple months, and I would like some advice on how to talk about my somewhat unusual plans for the future. [more inside]
posted by wansac at 10:45 PM PST - 4 comments

How many ways can I hold my girlfriends hand?

How many different ways can you hold hands with someone? [more inside]
posted by 777 at 10:43 PM PST - 12 comments

Hauntingly beautiful piano/string music?

Similar to these questions, I'm looking for simple, beautiful songs with a single voice and either a piano or strings. [more inside]
posted by adverb at 9:04 PM PST - 39 comments

All the world's a site, And all the men and women merely vloggers.

If one were to collect scenes from Shakespeare films to compare how different productions approached them differently, what scenes should be selected? [more inside]
posted by John Kenneth Fisher at 8:50 PM PST - 23 comments

I'm looking for great deals on groceries...

Is there any way for me to be automatically notified when certain foods go on sale at any stores in my area? [more inside]
posted by Ryogen at 8:39 PM PST - 4 comments

Stay in one city, leave for another?

Should I stay with romantic partner and decent job opportunities in a very nice location, or should I go for great job opportunity that's not in my field (and a thousand miles away)? Special snowflake & more inside. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:17 PM PST - 25 comments

Whales!

Where should we stay/what should we do/how should we get around in the San Juan Islands? Complications: we won't have a car, don't want to rent bikes for more than a couple of hours, and want to do things on at least two of the islands. [more inside]
posted by doift at 7:43 PM PST - 5 comments

I'm good at art, but I'm not creative. How do I make a portfolio?

I like to think that I'm pretty good at web/graphic design, programming, motion graphics, and a lot of other new media type things..but I'm a left-brained guy. How do I put together a portfolio (or otherwise market my skills) to show what I'm good at, even though I'm not the type of person to sit around and make art? [more inside]
posted by niles at 7:34 PM PST - 10 comments

How do I stop being a pushover with my sister? (a bit long but any help would be appreciated)

How do I stop being a pushover with my sister? [more inside]
posted by picarosado at 7:33 PM PST - 23 comments

When I've had enough SportsCenter for one day...

What to watch while getting dressed for work. [more inside]
posted by rastapasta at 7:26 PM PST - 11 comments

Who prints on the weekends?

New York print shop filter: Where can i get 30 double-sided pages of high-quality inkjet printed on letter-size matte presentation paper by monday? [more inside]
posted by Jon_Evil at 6:35 PM PST - 5 comments

USA foreign gay partner immigration?

How can a gay couple, one British, one American, both live in the USA? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 6:26 PM PST - 20 comments

How can I use Automator to automatically open some programs, load certain files, and minimize/maximize some windows?

How can I use Automator to automatically open some programs, load certain files, and minimize/maximize some windows? [more inside]
posted by ben5757 at 6:11 PM PST - 5 comments

Can you get fired for accessing Wikileaks from your home computer?

Can an employer fire you, or threaten to fire you or any other employee, for accessing the Wikileaks site from a personal (non-employer) computer? You are not directly employed by the government or a member of the military, but your employer does contract you and other employees with security clearances to the government. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 6:05 PM PST - 17 comments

Some folks are born to wave the flag

How can I determine when and where my father served in Vietnam? [more inside]
posted by citywolf at 5:53 PM PST - 13 comments

97' blazer oil issue?

My girlfriend's 97' chevy blazer sputters and looses power when under load (like going up a big hill), but once the oil is changed it runs fine. What is going on here??? [more inside]
posted by Esefa at 5:46 PM PST - 7 comments

Where can I find this light fixture?

Where can I find this light fixture? [more inside]
posted by ptsampras14 at 5:30 PM PST - 2 comments

65-25-45-75-CHUNK-45......

I am far from home and my truck is acting up. The speedometer has started flailing around wildly and every so often we'll feel the kick of the transmission (automatic) shifting or falling out of and into gear. I think the problem is electronic as every so often the speedometer starts behaving normally and the transmission settles down and behaves normally. [more inside]
posted by Kid Charlemagne at 5:04 PM PST - 4 comments

I'd like some company.

Socialise me! [more inside]
posted by b33j at 4:54 PM PST - 22 comments

Let's eat and travel without leaving home

Please recommend books, movies and TV shows about food and travel. [more inside]
posted by pleasebekind at 4:52 PM PST - 26 comments

Film festivals: how to do it?

Film festivals: how to do it? [more inside]
posted by drjimmy11 at 4:45 PM PST - 8 comments

What are some good dance moves I can learn from home?

DanceFilter: Help me learn how to dance from the comfort of home. What are some of your favorite dance tutorials / dances to imitate ?
posted by MechEng at 4:17 PM PST - 11 comments

Best time for a senior photoshoot?

Photographers, what's the best time of day for a senior photoshoot? [more inside]
posted by kylej at 4:04 PM PST - 10 comments

Computer Recommendations for Ableton and No Money?

Minimum specs for a computer running Ableton Live? [more inside]
posted by Squid Voltaire at 3:22 PM PST - 3 comments

Recommend some engaging ethnography

This recent link on the blue reminded me how fascinating ethnography can be. Now I have a hankering for some well-written works of anthropology or sociology that offer insight on different people and different ways of life. Please recommend some good books for me! This is for "pleasure reading," so really dense jargon is a turn-off, but they don't need to be written for a popular audience.
posted by bookish at 3:18 PM PST - 18 comments

Really hoping that the name 'permanent marker' isn't literally accurate

Permanent marker on painted walls. So far have tried: Goof Off, TSP Heavy Duty Cleaner, Magic Erasers, SOS pads, and alcohol based hand sanitizer. Help? What's next-- paint remover? Any suggestions gratefully received.
posted by jokeefe at 2:57 PM PST - 23 comments

Be my friend and deal with my abandonment issues, please?

Why do I need a best friend? and... do I really? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:49 PM PST - 13 comments

Box.net or DropBox open source alternatives?

Is there an open source / free version of something like Box.net or DropBox? My needs are simple: the ability to password protect folders, and a web interface to download it. Is this something that "comes with" OpenFiler or similar product? [more inside]
posted by geoff. at 2:30 PM PST - 18 comments

Scifi suicide story id help

Story ID: An aging, eminent composer decides it's time to end his life in an orderly manner. Probably from the 70's or 80's, and quite possibly in a collection of science fiction, although the only scifi element is that the story takes places in a time when the act isn't stigmatized. All clues appreciated.
posted by spasm at 2:20 PM PST - 6 comments

Help a perennial dork get some fashion up top!

I'm trying (again) to grow my hair out. Every time I've tried this before, my wavy, somewhat poofy hair looks terrible after a couple months - like the geeky kid in period 70s movies. Help me maintain a fashionable hair style until it gets where I want it! [more inside]
posted by Willie0248 at 1:38 PM PST - 21 comments

Saving Text Messages on iPhone 3G

How can I save/archive a very long string of text messages from my iPhone (3G)? [more inside]
posted by eggman at 1:36 PM PST - 7 comments

Dinosaurs (literally) for a dinosaur (metaphorically)

Best books about dinosaurs for an adult who knows surprisingly little about them but who also has an appreciation for learning? [more inside]
posted by MCMikeNamara at 1:35 PM PST - 9 comments

What has been your experience with low-VOC paint?

What has been your experience with low-VOC paint? [more inside]
posted by AllieTessKipp at 1:19 PM PST - 30 comments

I Want to Donate Leftover Antibiotics

Is there a charity that accepts unexpired antibiotics that are still sealed in their little blister-packs? I have 16 Keflex pills left over from a misdiagnosis and would love to find an organization that donates meds to the needy.
posted by wisekaren at 1:13 PM PST - 10 comments

Use statistics to prove that one kitten is cuter than another

I don't know enough statistics to prove that a certain kitten at kittenwar.com is cuter than another, but I know in my heart that it is true. Any statisticians out there wanna help me out? [more inside]
posted by Galaxor Nebulon at 12:58 PM PST - 20 comments

Getting Things Filed

Professors, researchers, teachers: How do you organize your files on hard disks and with physical folders? [more inside]
posted by meijusa at 12:57 PM PST - 13 comments

Ideas for being the best husband ever after the birth of our first child?

Help me be the best post-birth husband ever! We are expecting a new daughter (our first child) the first week in September - which means she could arrive very soon. What can I do to be the best husband ever after our daughter is born? [more inside]
posted by dilettanti at 12:53 PM PST - 49 comments

Computer game with pumpkins and witches, ~15year old, probably Atari or Amiga?

Computer game with pumpkins and witches, ~15year old, probably Atari or Amiga? [more inside]
posted by oxit at 12:32 PM PST - 10 comments

blogging photographs

Can anyone suggest a great company to use for a blogging photos?
posted by tangyraspberry at 12:30 PM PST - 15 comments

Is it time to let her go?

Is it time to let her go: diabetic cat edition. [more inside]
posted by politikitty at 12:15 PM PST - 29 comments

Narrative histories of war

I enjoyed Rick Atkinson's Liberation Trilogy on WWII (so far) and Shelby Foote's Civil War: A Narrative. What are similar narrative retellings for other wars? I'm particularly interested in something like this for the Napoleonic wars.
posted by event at 12:15 PM PST - 18 comments

What are the potential problems, if any, of venting a portable A/C unit into a closet or attic?

What are the potential problems, if any, of venting a portable A/C unit into a closet or attic? [more inside]
posted by wordsmith at 12:07 PM PST - 14 comments

Looking for an Optometrist in Salt Lake City or South Jordan, Utah.

Help me find an Optometrist in Salt Lake City or South Jordan, Utah. [more inside]
posted by msbutah at 12:01 PM PST - 3 comments

Help I'm being attacked - except I'm not.

Whenever a situation gets slightly confrontational/argumentative/critical (not necessarily dangerous), I experience a flight or fight response: my hands and legs shake, my heart races and my thinking slows down (along with all the other classic fight or flight reactions). It doesn't feel like an appropriate reaction to what's actually happening (hey, someone was rude to me in a meeting. I should stop shaking). I'd like to calmly deal with these situations, and try to tell myself that the person isn't actually hurting me, but my physical reaction is so strong and immediate. Any suggestions on how to not activate this reaction or at least reduce it?
posted by vivzan at 11:59 AM PST - 16 comments

How do I stand up a utility pole with no heavy machinery?

I have a 30' utility pole that I need to stand upright in a 6' deep hole. Complicating factor: the location is set back in the woods, so using heavy machinery or vehicles of any kind is not an option. [more inside]
posted by tr0ubley at 10:04 AM PST - 26 comments

Giving my eyes a rest

Soooo I need glasses. I have wore contacts for the last 5 years and would like to buy some designer frames. I usually get spectacular deals by buying my contacts online rather than on my local shop. How can I recreate the process with eye-glasses? [more inside]
posted by The1andonly at 10:03 AM PST - 30 comments

RadioLab Greatest Hits, Vol. 1?

Radiolab's 'Words' episode (discovered here) masterfully massaged my mind. What are some of the best/your favorite Radiolab episodes? [more inside]
posted by Chipmazing at 9:59 AM PST - 27 comments

How to determine type of payment source (credit or debit) online

Is there a way to distinguish between online payments made from a debt card and a credit card? [more inside]
posted by scharpy at 9:51 AM PST - 17 comments

World's finest navy requires world's most versatile brownies

Recommendations for baked goods in care packages that might be in transit for several weeks at a time? [more inside]
posted by almostmanda at 9:40 AM PST - 8 comments

How do I safely remove my netbook's chiclet keys?

I own an Asus netbook with a chiclet keyboard. I've had it for about a year and a half now and I would really like to properly clean the keyboard. But I can't seem to find instructions for how to take the keys off and clearly I don't want to break them! Has anyone out there done this before? Is it possible? [more inside]
posted by gracedissolved at 9:38 AM PST - 10 comments

I need a new provider of virtual credit cards

Since Paypal is shutting down their virtual credit card number feature I would like to find a different provider, but I dont want to apply for a new credit card. [more inside]
posted by digividal at 9:18 AM PST - 11 comments

Seeking decent psychiatrist in Denver

Psych[o]Filter. Can anyone recommend a good psychiatrist in Denver? Surrounding suburbs ok, but not too far out. I've searched the green alredy for answers but some are too old and none seem quite right. Mainly I need meds management. [more inside]
posted by scratch at 9:16 AM PST - 2 comments

God is my copilot

I am thinking about a title of the book (film), "God is my copilot". What does it mean, actually? I think God is your guide. Then he might be the main pilot, not the copilot? Or does the copilot mainly work? Or does it have a sort of ironic meaning? Please tell me!
posted by mizukko at 9:16 AM PST - 20 comments

A short list of short lists?

I'd like to focus my next year or two of reading on award-nominated literary fiction. I'm aware of the Man Booker Prize and the National Book Awards. These two lists together could easily more than fill up that year or two, but what other prestigious national or international literary awards/prizes have a short list of nominated works? [more inside]
posted by cog_nate at 9:15 AM PST - 16 comments

"There is no terror in a bang, only in the anticipation of it."

What are the very best/most essential books about Alfred Hitchcock? [more inside]
posted by fryman at 8:31 AM PST - 8 comments

How to find a place in NYC for a short term period?

I will be moving to the greater NYC area in 6 weeks and need to find a furnished short term lease that puts me in reasonable distance from the two hospitals where i'll be working. How possible is this on a students budget? [more inside]
posted by Heliochrome85 at 8:12 AM PST - 20 comments

Parking for flying out of the msp/st paul airport but not parking at the airport

Where to park when flying out of Minneapolis/St Paul and I don't want to pay to park at the airport. [more inside]
posted by MeProxy at 7:46 AM PST - 10 comments

Who deals with complaints about landlords in La.?

I want to make a complaint about my slum..er, landlord. How do I go about doing that in the state of Louisiana? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:37 AM PST - 7 comments

You're never truly dressed without a smile?

What are the little details that really make one look "put-together"? [more inside]
posted by ladybird at 7:36 AM PST - 70 comments

Where to place glasses in bathroom?

Where do you place your glasses when taking a shower? [more inside]
posted by keijo at 7:22 AM PST - 39 comments

How much for the death ray?

Custom build PC in Twin Cities or Online [more inside]
posted by jadepearl at 7:22 AM PST - 10 comments

Get the mouse out of my house!

Are there any ways to reliably pick a good mouser without knowing much about a cat's history? [more inside]
posted by kataclysm at 7:13 AM PST - 34 comments

Who made this picture?

Cool image. Whose is it? [more inside]
posted by mcbeth at 7:10 AM PST - 5 comments

Has anyone tried immunotherapy for chronic rhinitis?

Has anyone tried immunotherapy for chronic rhinitis (year-round allergies/nasal congestion)? [more inside]
posted by metakiwi at 6:51 AM PST - 14 comments

My sinuses are broken.

Sinus congestion is making me very unhappy. What works for you? [more inside]
posted by littleflowers at 6:50 AM PST - 25 comments

Incurring charges on lost or stolen phones

Stolen/Lost Phone and charges incurred upon it (£700) - what are the options? Anyone had any experience of this? (Vodafone, UK) [more inside]
posted by garius at 6:43 AM PST - 4 comments

Antique Carpentry Charts Online?

Looking for online resources for old carpentry formulas/charts from way back in history that look like astrological illustrations. [more inside]
posted by sciurus at 6:40 AM PST - 3 comments

A rose by any other name...

Changing my surname back to my maiden name years after a divorce - please give me your advice. [more inside]
posted by lizbunny at 6:06 AM PST - 26 comments

Yogurt sauces. I want to make some.

Your favorite yogurt/yoghurt sauce/dip recipes. I want them. Sour cream sauces are good too, if you have them. [more inside]
posted by bilabial at 5:39 AM PST - 20 comments

Non-U.S. MSW?

What are some good MSW programs outside the US? [more inside]
posted by youchirren at 5:34 AM PST - 4 comments

Tasty, but not so pretty

How do I make cake balls look neat and pretty? [more inside]
posted by Terriniski at 5:29 AM PST - 12 comments

You know what they say about loose lips, right?

I have a tendency towards gossiping and spilling secrets. How can I get better control of what I divulge in conversations? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:23 AM PST - 17 comments

Help me be more rational?

How can I stop forming mini-crushes on every cute guy I stumble across? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:23 AM PST - 24 comments

Do THING for TIME

What are some other examples of "X things in Y time"? e.g. The Show with Ze Frank - a video a day for a year; Julie and Julia blog - all of Julia Child's recipes in a year.
posted by djgh at 4:02 AM PST - 22 comments

"Radio edit" from CD version of song?

How to transform song from CD version to "radio edit" version? [more inside]
posted by InsertNiftyNameHere at 1:43 AM PST - 12 comments

Bay Area Twitter feeds of note

I just moved to Oakland from LA. I find Twitter to be really useful. Please recommend Bay Area-ish Twitter feeds (for Oakland, San Francisco and Marin, since I'll be spending lots of time time in all three regions) I should be following. [more inside]
posted by the_bone at 12:42 AM PST - 10 comments

August 12

Where to stay in Liverpool for 7-10 days

Where should I stay in Liverpool? [more inside]
posted by jeri at 11:26 PM PST - 11 comments

Moving to SF, seeking advice on neighborhoods and apartments

Moving into San Francisco. Advice on neighborhoods, and finding a place to rent? [more inside]
posted by mikeand1 at 10:38 PM PST - 7 comments

Creative or English Literature masters?

I'm currently finishing my last English Literature Honors paper and aim to continue academic study. My dilemma is that I am unsure of whether to apply for an English Literature MA or a Creative Writing MA. [more inside]
posted by New England Cultist at 10:25 PM PST - 18 comments

I just need my hard drive to mount one last time

I just need my hard drive to mount one last time... [more inside]
posted by malhouse at 10:02 PM PST - 12 comments

What are the side effects of general anesthetic?

Are the common side effects of general anesthetics REALLY that common? What if I eat toast beforehand? [more inside]
posted by foxy at 9:58 PM PST - 40 comments

WAKE ME UP!

Everyone has it harder than me. So I should be taking advantage of that, right? [more inside]
posted by defmute at 9:54 PM PST - 20 comments

What was this ceremony?

What kind of (possibly religous) celebration did I see today? [more inside]
posted by troublewithwolves at 9:07 PM PST - 9 comments

Help teach my computer to follow a chart

Are there any machine readable music "fake books" available, free or for sale? [more inside]
posted by waxboy at 8:50 PM PST - 6 comments

Where to get snus when in LA and Vegas?

I was wondering if I can buy either the (purportedly not very good) Camel snus or even real Swedish snus in those cities? [more inside]
posted by kevinsp8 at 8:48 PM PST - 6 comments

Men's Linen Jacket?

Where can I find a men's linen jacket like this? [more inside]
posted by Yiggs at 8:28 PM PST - 2 comments

What was the music in 'Cyrus'?

Can you help me find the full soundtrack listing for the movie 'Cyrus'?
posted by tomtheblackbear at 8:06 PM PST - 2 comments

I'd like to give it a swift Boot to the Asus

What's the simplest way to start up my computer and format it correctly? I have an Asus EEE PC 901 notebook with EEEbuntu loaded up on it. Just after it initiates the GRUB it jumps to a blue screen with an error notice telling me I have no space left on the device. Should I or do I need some kind of bootloader program to get in there and format this puppy or what? [more inside]
posted by P.o.B. at 8:04 PM PST - 9 comments

I need some major help with body image issues (self confidence)

I need some major help with body image issues (self confidence) I'm reaching out to the hive for some extremely personal advice (thank God for anonymous-ness). I apologize beforehand for my casual typing - I tend to type the way I talk, and it can go all over the place... [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:04 PM PST - 18 comments

Cyclophosphamide Side Effect Advice

I am starting low dose pulsed cyclophosphamide, and would like tips for coping with the side effects of nausea, vomiting and fatigue. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:02 PM PST - 6 comments

Who said goodbye best?

What's a not-too-sappy quotation for a going away card? [more inside]
posted by Gin and Comics at 7:28 PM PST - 14 comments

How do you get home with an expired driver's license?

Travel question: what do you do when your ID is expired? [more inside]
posted by dpx.mfx at 7:15 PM PST - 12 comments

Medium distance, where's the in-between sparks?

New medium-distance relationship - sparks fly when together,radio silence in between - where do I go from here if at all? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 6:17 PM PST - 11 comments

I lost my virginity and got herpes (maybe)

Yet another herpes post. There's been so many of these lately it's like an ominous sign. My boyfriend has genital herpes. I might have contracted it from him. I have already gone to a doctor and am awaiting test results. Help me/us prepare mentally and emotionally. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 6:16 PM PST - 9 comments

What are your favorite science blogs?

What are some of the best Science (or more specifically Bioscience/natural resources) Blogs? [more inside]
posted by rockindata at 6:07 PM PST - 9 comments

How to break up with someone you are not dating?

Breakupfilter: Help me end a quasi-relationship! [more inside]
posted by alternateuniverse at 6:00 PM PST - 12 comments

Photos of women from least to most attractive?

I'm looking for a specific chart showing women's faces from least to most attractive. [more inside]
posted by cherrybounce at 5:56 PM PST - 3 comments

HOPE ME METAFILTER!

Toronto housing HELP! Need a Toronto sublet 1 bedroom apartment or 1 bedroom in an apartment for a person doing a housing search in Toronto. We're having crap luck and need help from Metafilter. [more inside]
posted by tiamat at 5:20 PM PST - 15 comments

How can I get certified to officiate a wedding in South Carolina or North Carolina?

How can I get certified to officiate a wedding in South Carolina or North Carolina? [more inside]
posted by jasonmdennis at 5:05 PM PST - 3 comments

ConspicuousConsumptionFilter

Best DLC for PS3? Short and sweet. What's a good ~$10 download for the PS3? (I've got Braid and Noby Noby Boy). I'm thinking of maybe Pixel Junk Monsters, or Flower. Is there anything else I should look at? Basically the only genres I'm not into are Racing and Fighting, but I'll make exceptions for excellence.
posted by edbles at 4:52 PM PST - 22 comments

How do I write a program to analyze my data?

I need help writing a simple program that will compare numbers in a specific way. [more inside]
posted by Electrius at 4:23 PM PST - 10 comments

What are good places for buying first edition hardcover books?

What are good places for buying first edition hardcover books? [more inside]
posted by GlassHeart at 4:08 PM PST - 13 comments

Memory in books and media

Looking for fiction books, tv shows, movies, etc, that have something interesting to say about memory-- e.g., why we remember some things but forget others, the quality of memories, anything like that. [more inside]
posted by dino might at 3:48 PM PST - 46 comments

What are some of the best jobs to have while I wait for my real job to start?

What are some of the best jobs to have while I wait for my real job to start? [more inside]
posted by BasileusPY at 3:27 PM PST - 12 comments

Help me find preserved fish with clear tissue and stained skeletons

I'm looking for a site or gallery of preserved fish/vertebrate specimens where the tissue was stained transparent but the skeletons were stained all sorts of exciting colors. I want to say the source was a Japanese website, and it was passed around the internet relatively recently. I can't recall if I found it on MeFi or on Google Reader, but it was somewhat popular. Help me out hive mind.
posted by Lord Force Crater at 3:15 PM PST - 5 comments

Robot Identification Filter

Robot identification help? [more inside]
posted by librarianamy at 3:08 PM PST - 27 comments

Where can I get Red Sealing Wax FAST in Philadelphia and not spend a ton?

Where can I get Red Sealing Wax FAST in Philadelphia and not spend a ton? [more inside]
posted by xdeliriumx at 3:04 PM PST - 4 comments

Tumbling all over the place.

What are your favorite design / image / art tumblrs? I'd like to start building a collection of feeds to get cool images for inspiration. [more inside]
posted by codacorolla at 2:57 PM PST - 9 comments

How to merge old iTunes data?

iTunes: In the transition to a NAS device, I lost the xml file that held all my playlists, ratings and playback counts, so I had to start over with a new library. I have found a backup, but it's incomplete as I have since added quite a lot of new media. How can I best get my newly-found ratings and playback counts back in?
posted by crickets at 2:44 PM PST - 2 comments

Used iPhone Craigslist Purchase

Anything I should be aware of when buying a used iPhone 3GS via Craigslist (to be activated afterwards on my existing AT&T account)? [more inside]
posted by joecacti at 2:40 PM PST - 9 comments

Can I go to med school?

I've been to two colleges. The first one, I received all W's and an F. The second one, I received all F's. Do I have a shot at medical school? [more inside]
posted by biochemist at 2:37 PM PST - 36 comments

AARP membership benefits?

Which benefits of AARP membership have you found useful, or heard of being so?
posted by telstar at 2:35 PM PST - 7 comments

Making the most of my iPhone while I'm offline

What are your favourite iPhone apps that can be used offline? [more inside]
posted by exquisite_deluxe at 2:32 PM PST - 31 comments

help me keep my cheap wine from becoming expensive vinegar

How should I store my wine? Considering that I almost never buy wine that costs more than 10 or 20 dollars, I don't think it's worth it for me to buy some fancy wine refrigerator that costs hundreds of dollars, but the temperature in my living room ranges from 68F to 90F (20C to 32C) and the insides of the closets are even hotter. [more inside]
posted by betweenthebars at 2:30 PM PST - 20 comments

How easy do I or do I not have it as a woman in the dating world?

All right. How difficult is it for women to flirt with men *really*? I often hear that just smiling at a dude is good enough, but how true is that? What tactics have been successful for you, ladies? What is it you gentlemen out there wish a woman would (reasonably) do in a social situation? I've read the SIRC guide to flirting, but I'm looking for some real world anecdotes to supplement that. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:16 PM PST - 39 comments

What if I don't pay these traffic tickets?

We got three traffic tickets while visiting DC recently. All three were for things that are NOT illegal in our home state. What would happen if I just didn't pay them? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:16 PM PST - 27 comments

WTF do I do? And why does the American Healthcare system suck so much?

YANMD-YANML Filter: After years of not having health insurance, I recently took my shiny new insurance card to the doctor to get a checkup. They found I had a horrible disease. So, wtf do I do now? [more inside]
posted by From the Fortress at 2:08 PM PST - 18 comments

Iconic yacht rock movies and tv

What movies and TV shows do you associate with the genre of yacht rock? [more inside]
posted by Potomac Avenue at 1:50 PM PST - 20 comments

What are the best (most interesting/useful) email newsletters?

What are the best (most interesting/useful) email newsletters? [more inside]
posted by mintchip at 1:39 PM PST - 3 comments

My food is corrosive?

What's corroding my Tupperware? [more inside]
posted by Hakaisha at 1:28 PM PST - 11 comments

Linux distro for giveaway computers

What would be the best Linux distribution for computers given to clients by a social services agency? [more inside]
posted by plungerjoke at 1:27 PM PST - 14 comments

How can I help in a specific GIMP effort.

How can I contribute to the efforts of GIMP being able to open a 16 bit image? [more inside]
posted by figTree at 1:22 PM PST - 6 comments

how to be less impulsive

Personal development filter: I’d like to be less impulsive, any tips? [more inside]
posted by davidjohnfox at 1:18 PM PST - 8 comments

Dye my red (really red) hair brown

What's the best way to dye fire-engine red hair brown? [more inside]
posted by Margalo Epps at 1:16 PM PST - 6 comments

Help me rock the casual look.

Would like gobs of pictures of women well put-together, focusing mainly on casual looks, and perhaps a little advice on dressing casually. [more inside]
posted by moira at 12:28 PM PST - 21 comments

All work and no play make hubby something something

Help me put together a care package for my overworked husband. [more inside]
posted by Ruki at 12:23 PM PST - 18 comments

Herpes and swinging

Is disclosing herpes in a personal ad for swinging partners a breach of etiquette? (probably nsfw) [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 11:51 AM PST - 7 comments

How to date with no sex before marriage?

How to date with no sex before marriage? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 11:51 AM PST - 49 comments

The image was Creative Commons, now licensed through Getty, wah?

What happens when a Flickr image is changed from a Creative Commons license to being licensed through Getty? [more inside]
posted by foggy out there now at 11:43 AM PST - 6 comments

Hang on every word I say!

How do I project an air of expertise to my dog training clients? These are people who have already chosen to come to me for help, know my qualifications and clearly want to see me as an expert. Being more authoritative will not only make them more compliant to my suggestions but also make them feel like they're getting their money's worth. [more inside]
posted by freshwater_pr0n at 11:38 AM PST - 19 comments

Does CrashPlan take system resources throughout the day?

Does CrashPlan use substantial processor cycles or system resources throughout the day? [more inside]
posted by Mo Nickels at 11:35 AM PST - 5 comments

What would you suggest to a novice manager?

What have you learned about managing a staff that took you years to realize and wish you had known on day 1? [more inside]
posted by otters walk among us at 11:22 AM PST - 42 comments

I can't believe it's not bacon

So I'm looking to entertain a new female acquaintance in NYC who is a vegetarian. My ten years of building up my foodie cred are worthless! Where can we have a nice dinner that is not Zen Palate or Angelica's? [more inside]
posted by Threeway Handshake at 10:43 AM PST - 54 comments

That Awful Fingernail Thing

You know that awful shivery feeling you get when your fingernails brush against certain paper or metal surfaces? That's happening to me frequently now, even when I'm not touching anything. What could it be, what should I do? [more inside]
posted by hermitosis at 10:38 AM PST - 19 comments

Original Cat meeting New Kitten

Cat adjusting to new kitten: what's the next step for us to ensure they learn to get along? We've taken some basic steps already. [more inside]
posted by Tequila Mockingbird at 10:36 AM PST - 12 comments

Looking for a change..Toronto to Australia..Best place to continue my career and surf

Hi all, My girlfriend and I are interested in taking advantage of the working holidaymaker visa offer by Australia to Canadians 18-30 inclusive as this is the last year it is available to me. [more inside]
posted by stealabove at 10:35 AM PST - 23 comments

Roadtrip through the American West

Hey folks – I’m pondering a two week roadtrip through the American West this fall and would like your input. [more inside]
posted by Coyote at the Dog Show at 10:25 AM PST - 14 comments

How do I deal with multiple out-of-state family illnesses?

I can't stop feeling guilty about not being able to visit sick family members or help them more. I'm scared of others dying or being sick. [more inside]
posted by KogeLiz at 10:01 AM PST - 5 comments

The Case of the Unknown Font

What the heck font is this? These are screencaps I've taken from the tv series Sherlock. If you haven't seen the show yet (and want to), I'd suggest not clicking; I think that all of them taken together would give away some of the fun of the series, if not exactly the plot. If you have seen it (or don't care), and you're good at font recognition, please help!
posted by tzikeh at 9:59 AM PST - 17 comments

Legal issues for special needs children

As a parent of a special needs child, what are some legal issues you wish someone had told you about before you had to deal with them? [more inside]
posted by valkyryn at 9:59 AM PST - 4 comments

What's minerals are likely to be deficient with somebody who has arthritis?

A friend of mine has premature arthritis (she's 40 years old). She can't get enough iron, despite taking supplements, and we recently worked out that she's short of magnesium too. Loss of minerals is a common problem with arthritis but what other minerals is she likely to be missing, and what's the best way of replacing them?
posted by humblepigeon at 9:55 AM PST - 13 comments

I tried to avoid making a batman joke, but I couldn't help myself

California-girl in New England shenanigans filter: A bat flew into my house (and then MY FACE!) in the middle of the night last night. It didn't touch me, but it flew around my bedroom for about 30 minutes (while I stood in the hallway with a broom and a very bewildered look on my face) and then basically disappeared as quickly as it materialized. My question is this: WTF do I do now? [more inside]
posted by pazazygeek at 9:54 AM PST - 27 comments

Ashamed of my thoughts during sex

I keep thinking about porn when I have sex with my wife. NSFW. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:51 AM PST - 31 comments

feels like burning

BurningFilter: best (and worst) advice for a handful of twentysomething female newbies camping for a week in the desert? [more inside]
posted by changeling at 9:39 AM PST - 16 comments

Help me get paid to hold this guy's hand

My boss has ADD filter: Is there a way to manage task-scheduling capabilities and see what's been scheduled for you that day? Project management help needed! [more inside]
posted by blazingunicorn at 9:33 AM PST - 2 comments

Recent wonderful children's book?

I need a beautiful, amazing children's book! [more inside]
posted by silverstatue at 9:18 AM PST - 46 comments

Give me what I want, or I shall rub you a second time!

How did cats learn to be so manipulative? [more inside]
posted by elder18 at 9:10 AM PST - 32 comments

office politics strikes again

A colleague didn't do her work in a way that affects the entire office, and in particular makes my current project more difficult. Now she's gone away on holiday. Should I just do the work myself? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:06 AM PST - 7 comments

Help taking screenshots on Android Droid X

I have a new Droid X, and need to take screen shots. I have the SDK, JDK and USB drivers installed, and my phone has USB debugging enabled. However, the DDMS will not display my device. [more inside]
posted by robhuddles at 8:59 AM PST - 3 comments

Sue me baby

I am working with a lawyer to declare bankruptcy. I was served papers last week that show I am being sued by big huge credit card company for unpaid debt - around $30,000. I contacted my lawyer when I got served and she said if we could file before the date we had to appear in court there would be no problem. Hilariously, though, she is on vacation out of the country until just before the date I must appear in court, and I just got email from her assistant saying that we would probably not be able to file bankruptcy before the deadline and that I may have to 'file a response' to the suit. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:59 AM PST - 10 comments

Now or later?

Break up today or next week? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:59 AM PST - 34 comments

Please recommend a toddler MP3 player.

My almost-2-year-old loves carrying around toys that make music. We are bored with the same 3 songs. Can MeFi parents recommend MP3 players that are toddler-tough (can be dropped, thrown and is big enough to not get lost) with big buttons (but no volume control) that have an external speaker (but maybe a headphone jack for later)? We want to load our music on it rather than buying a pre-loaded one. (Working with iTunes would be a nice plus too.) [more inside]
posted by k8t at 8:38 AM PST - 11 comments

Looking for options of places to stay during Mardi Gras (8+ people)

Coming down the New Orleans for Mardi Gras and was looking for recommendations on the best option for a group of 6-8+ on where to stay. I've been to Mardi Gras in the past, but always stayed local with friends - while this is clearly an optimal/cheaper option, it's not available to me for the coming Carnival season. [more inside]
posted by a11an at 8:29 AM PST - 8 comments

Should I get a cat?

Should I get a cat? I'm planning on moving across the country in the next couple years. [more inside]
posted by Vibrissa at 8:05 AM PST - 32 comments

Kid Book Help

Another "help me remember this kid book" question. [more inside]
posted by Lucinda at 7:54 AM PST - 5 comments

How do I make an animation involving text, still photos, and music?

How do I make an animation involving text, still photos, and music? [more inside]
posted by msbrauer at 7:42 AM PST - 4 comments

Help me have a blast in Eastern PA!

Day Trip in Eastern PA filter: Halfway between Harrisburg PA and Newark NJ. What’s a fun Day? [more inside]
posted by PlutoniumX at 7:36 AM PST - 23 comments

Looking for Unix sysadmin training alternatives to USENIX/LISA in the U.S.

Where can my colleague go in the U.S. for up to a week of sysadmin training and mingling? [more inside]
posted by wenestvedt at 7:28 AM PST - 4 comments

Plus size lingerie that doesn't suck?

Plus size lingerie that can be bought online from a website that doesn't make me fear for my credit card's safety or a fatal accidents from overly cheap elastics/snaps? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:21 AM PST - 16 comments

Becoming a criminal defense lawyer in L.A.

I am a bankruptcy lawyer in Texas interested in moving to Los Angeles to practice criminal defense. I have significant criminal defense experience from earlier in my career. Could any of you familiar with the Los Angeles criminal courts system answer a few questions about how easy it is to "break in" as a newly arrived criminal defense attorney in L.A.? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:21 AM PST - 1 comment

Which four drive NAS storage solution to choose for home use?

Which four drive NAS storage solution to choose for home use? (Summer 2010 edition) [more inside]
posted by seanmpuckett at 7:00 AM PST - 17 comments

'we had the same dream'

Happy Ambient Music? I'm looking for ambient soundscapes that won't make me feel like demons are slowly approaching (Aphex Twin, etc) I'm looking for study music that'll help me get in a happy zone.
posted by leotrotsky at 6:40 AM PST - 54 comments

Carryon Backpack Wheels?

Backpack for Europe Filter: We'd appreciate your suggestions on a backpack for a trip to Europe. Relevant details inside. [more inside]
posted by Atreides at 6:32 AM PST - 10 comments

Non-Sketch Estate Sale Resources

What is the best resource for finding out when and where estate sales are happening? [more inside]
posted by pxe2000 at 6:03 AM PST - 9 comments

Valtrex as a prophylactic?

Is it reasonable to keep a supply of Valtrex around to take after protected casual sex to prevent herpes? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:46 AM PST - 12 comments

Period but still pregnant?

What are the chances that she is pregnant? Can you have a period and still be pregnant? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:45 AM PST - 27 comments

How to stop sex from becoming a Stephen King plotline.

My wife has expressed a desire to spend the night tied up. How can I fulfil her wishes while minimising the risks of turning this into a scene out of Gerald's Game? [It's probably safe to assume that this AskMe is NSFW] [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:45 AM PST - 15 comments

Can I de-etch this sketch?

How can I remove faux / false etching on glass doors? [more inside]
posted by LongDrive at 5:19 AM PST - 2 comments

Looking for UNESCO Bopshpere video

I am looking for an online group of videos featuring photgraphs from various UNESCO Biosphere areas. I watched it about four years ago. I think there was a sountrack....
posted by haikuku at 4:43 AM PST - 2 comments

Latin translation of "worse things happen at sea".

Please provide me with a Latin translation of "Worse things happen at sea". [more inside]
posted by my face your at 4:28 AM PST - 7 comments

Short term Central London leases sought, the shorter the better!

Sources of short term leasehold properties, Central London? [more inside]
posted by Mutant at 4:18 AM PST - 2 comments

Environmental history.

Environmental ancient history. I'm after examples in history (the further back the better) where efforts were made to protect, restore or otherwise preserve the environment. [more inside]
posted by ninazer0 at 4:07 AM PST - 15 comments

fairy tales with swimming in rivers?

I'm looking for fairy tales that have swimming in them, or river symbolism: Puss in Boots is one. [more inside]
posted by titanium_geek at 3:09 AM PST - 23 comments

Another Sauna Showdown

[Arachnid Filter] Why don't these two spiders eat each other? [more inside]
posted by at the crossroads at 2:53 AM PST - 13 comments

How should I handle a faucet that hurts me?

How should I handle faucets that are too far away for me to reach easily? Are there any DIY remedies or should I just replace them? [more inside]
posted by Lt. Bunny Wigglesworth at 2:46 AM PST - 7 comments

Yet Another iPhone/iPad Printing Question

This is a followup question about printing from an iPhone/iPad app: the original question can be found here. Blazecock Pileon and GuyZero (and anyone else), please respond! [more inside]
posted by smersh at 2:41 AM PST - 2 comments

No Grandchild, Sorry!

How do I handle the demand, "Give me a grandchild?" [more inside]
posted by The ____ of Justice at 2:17 AM PST - 36 comments

Getting in shape without a gym.

I want to loose the fat tire around my belly but I'm having a few problems with: motivation, timing, diet, exercise plan, and a lack of a gym. I need a some serious self-motivation advice, and some tips on how to workout without a gym. Help a guy in his 20s get where he needs to be! [more inside]
posted by Political Funny Man at 1:51 AM PST - 31 comments

What party games with guitars are there?

I like to take my acoustic guitar to parties. As well as songs and karoke, what else can I do? Examples inside. [more inside]
posted by Cogentesque at 12:57 AM PST - 12 comments

A garden of things that are cheaper to plant than to buy

Lazy and cheap gardening in Los Angeles: what plants, fruits, etc. are cheaper to grow (and maintain) than to buy? [more inside]
posted by Xere at 12:00 AM PST - 8 comments

August 11

Maine cheaply, chiefly.

36 hours in Maine this weekend with a rental car. I am thinking of not getting a hotel room and instead car-camping. I'll be in Camden Maine for a wedding Friday and Saturday and plan to return to Boston late on Saturday to take a bus to DC. I want to spend as much of Friday wandering around Portland before driving to Camden and kind of want to spend the morning in Portland on Saturday, too. Is this a good idea? Any tips on quiet places to park and snooze?
posted by parmanparman at 11:58 PM PST - 6 comments

J'espère que cela ne coûtera pas les yeux de la tête

What's the best value prepaid SIM card for a week long visit to France, averaging...say...15-30 minutes of talk + 100 MB of data per day? [more inside]
posted by randomstriker at 11:49 PM PST - 10 comments

How to enjoy being alone for 3 days?

How should I make the most of home time on my own please? I am at home and sick on my own. My husband is at a conference for 3 days. What fun stuff should I be doing to maximise the unusual experience of being home alone, without really wanting to go anywhere? [more inside]
posted by jojobobo at 10:25 PM PST - 13 comments

What is the safest route to walk from downtown Chicago to Lincoln Park?

A Chicago-specific question: I would like to walk from the Sears Tower to the intersection of Sheffield and Armitage on a weekday evening, around 7pm. I'm a petite, young woman. What is the safest, not terribly out-of-the-way route to travel?
posted by pitseleh at 9:56 PM PST - 13 comments

Freezer with icicles.

Why is there an ice age in my freezer? [more inside]
posted by herrdoktor at 8:57 PM PST - 26 comments

Superhuman ability, or trickery?

In this YouTube video linked over at kottke today, we see some astonishing gymnastic 'dancing' by the Ross Sisters in 'Solid Potato Salad'. But some of it just seems beyond belief -the scene in the wagon ... and the apple in the hayloft (!). Was this for real, or was there camera trickery involved?
posted by woodblock100 at 8:53 PM PST - 13 comments

[How] Can I safely repair the nick in this electric cord?

[How] Can I safely repair the nick in this electric cord? Is there anything I can use besides electrical tape? [more inside]
posted by needs more cowbell at 8:49 PM PST - 18 comments

How much Ativan to take

I took .5 mg of Ativan. What will happen if I take another .5? [more inside]
posted by Badmichelle at 8:18 PM PST - 17 comments

NYC/NJ travel advice

Where should we stay during our Labor Day visit to NYC/NJ? [more inside]
posted by sulaine at 8:14 PM PST - 8 comments

Bike legs.

BikeCommuteFilter: Shifting up to riding five days a week. But my legs already hurt from my twice-a-week routine! [more inside]
posted by zvs at 7:53 PM PST - 32 comments

Damn the... something besides torpedoes.

"Damn the torpedoes!"... without all the torpedoes? Help me find the right metaphor. [more inside]
posted by eleyna at 7:51 PM PST - 37 comments

Help me regrow my hair.

I think my hair is too thin and it's not related to genetics, what could it be? I'm a 30 year old female. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:31 PM PST - 22 comments

How do I tell my manager to wake up?

How do I (or we) speak to my manager about his increasing lack of involvement in what we feel are the core components of a product's (re)launch, especially when the stakes in the launch include: our careers, the fate of the company, and the jobs of fellow colleagues in the office? [more inside]
posted by mistertoronto at 7:05 PM PST - 5 comments

Setting up a trust for a sister

Dealing with a will gone bad- Need advice about setting up a trust for my sister, and dealing with her difficult personality. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 6:55 PM PST - 22 comments

How can I broach the topic of my own sexual satisfaction without upsetting my boyfriend who has erectile dysfunction?

How can I broach the topic of my own sexual satisfaction without upsetting my boyfriend who has erectile dysfunction? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 6:53 PM PST - 10 comments

Too good to be true?

Can anyone vouch for eyelash growth serums? RapidLash? [more inside]
posted by pulled_levers at 6:44 PM PST - 20 comments

Pain relief for a cancer and arthritis patient in New York City?

My father, in his late 60s, is a prostate cancer and arthritis patient and is currently in a lot of pain to the point where he doubles over groaning. His oncologist and general practitioner have prescribed Oxycodone, which he takes one-two at a time, but sometimes even that doesn't help and other times it makes him sick. The MDs aren't sure whether the cancer or arthritis are to blame at the moment. He'll go back on chemo on Monday and get a full set of scans in September. Meanwhile, does anyone have recommendations for pain relief of the mainstream or alternative variety? He has already tried acupuncture without great success. His lives in NYC. Thank you.
posted by AlmondEyes at 6:27 PM PST - 10 comments

How do I give constructive feedback about something about which I know little?

A friend of mine wants me to review his business' web site. I have, and it looks awful. Problem is, I'm not a web designer/graphic designer/etc. I wouldn't know where to start giving him feedback. [more inside]
posted by dfriedman at 6:26 PM PST - 24 comments

Need a dentist.

Looking for a dentist in the general vicinity of St. Louis. [more inside]
posted by mordax at 5:56 PM PST - 2 comments

Shantel, Boban Markovic, ahhhh

I'll be in Serbia for a week... what should I definitely see? (also - any Mefites going to the Guca brass festival?) [more inside]
posted by mammary16 at 5:44 PM PST - 7 comments

Best desktop interactive video conferencing software?

What is the best desktop interactive video conferencing software that can accommodate a group of 20 participants all capable of interacting during the session? [more inside]
posted by tessalations999 at 5:35 PM PST - 5 comments

Sequence board game online ?

Does the board game Sequence from jax games .. exist online for multiple players to compete ? I'd love to play this online with friends from other states/countries :) Buuuuuut .. can't seem to find an online version anywhere! Can you find it ? [more inside]
posted by jason9009 at 4:53 PM PST - 1 comment

Maybe vodka will improve things?

I made Ina Garten's roasted tomato soup and accidentally put in way too much dried thyme. It's tasty, but difficult to enjoy as soup. How do I rescue my soup? If I can't rescue it, what else can I do with it?
posted by millions of peaches at 4:41 PM PST - 16 comments

How Do I Make This Kid Go Away?

Completely awkward and odd dating conundrum.. My fiancé's teenage son has a crush on me. [more inside]
posted by xbeautychicx at 4:36 PM PST - 76 comments

Can I hang out at the bar if I'm dating the bartender?

Dating a bartender - is it ok to hang out at the bar? (But me and the bar began our relationship first!) [more inside]
posted by teststrip at 4:06 PM PST - 21 comments

Casual dinner in London RIGHT NOW - where?

It's 23:00 / 11:00PM. I'm in London, near St. Pauls. Where can I eat right now? Nothing fancy, just something to get a decent late casual dinner. Takeaway or delivery is fine (or even preferred), and totally flexible on cuisine. A good curry or Kebab shop would be idea. I don't mind taking a taxi or the tube, but I don't want to be out all night. Any ideas?
posted by true at 2:56 PM PST - 12 comments

Nontraditional wedding party for the wedding party

What kind of activities can I arrange for a non-traditional, joint bachelor-bachelorette party? [more inside]
posted by rachaelfaith at 2:42 PM PST - 15 comments

Care package for a new mother in Japan?

What can I put in a care package for a new mother in Japan? (I'm in the U.S.) [more inside]
posted by zerbinetta at 2:35 PM PST - 9 comments

Quranic Recitation

When a qari recites qur'an is the melody an improvisation? [more inside]
posted by Paquda at 2:24 PM PST - 7 comments

Where can i see list of non-fb pages i've 'liked'?

I've been clicking the 'like' button all over the interwebs -on pages and articles and slideshows and whatnot. Now i want to view a list of all things i've "liked", so that i can revisit them. (To a certain extent, i've been liking things as a way of bookmarking them.) Problem: on facebook, i can see a list of the pages within facebook that i've liked, and i can see recent non-fb-pages that i've liked in my profile's recent activity. So: where can a see a list of all the non-fb pages i've liked? [more inside]
posted by Kololo at 2:16 PM PST - 12 comments

Nature reference book tips!

Please recommend a reference book for trees and plants (flowers, etc) in the high Rocky Mountain region (specifically Utah). I would like to purchase this book online if possible. [more inside]
posted by timpanogos at 1:59 PM PST - 4 comments

All the umbrellas in London couldn't stop this rain, and all the dope in New York couldn't kill this pain

Every breakup is its own special snowflake. Should I try to put the pieces back together or is it time to cut losses and go our seperate ways? (Sorry, this is going to get long) [more inside]
posted by Ceci n'est pas un sockpuppet at 1:51 PM PST - 24 comments

Router too old for iPad?

My friend bought an iPad. It works great everywhere but at home - apps take a long time to load or don't load at all. Apple says her existing router (Netgear) is too old and sold her an Airport Express. Can she plug in the existing router to the Airport Express (instead of connecting it to the modem) to create a stronger wireless signal or will that just create conflict? What else can we do? [more inside]
posted by amethysts at 1:26 PM PST - 14 comments

WM -> JPM? When?

Will my shares of Washinton Mutual (WM) stock ever be converted to Chase (JPM)?
posted by Rash at 1:13 PM PST - 6 comments

What's the source of this quote about genius?

"A genius is someone who has the same opinions as you, but expresses them better." Who said it? [more inside]
posted by lore at 1:09 PM PST - 4 comments

Four-legged carnivorous dinosaurs?

My six-year-old son wants to know how many carnivorous dinosaurs walked on four legs. [more inside]
posted by winston at 12:50 PM PST - 19 comments

What is the energy efficiency of mini fridges/drinks coolers like?

What is the energy efficiency of mini fridges/drinks coolers like? I have one but it runs a fan all the time, so I think it's gonna eat a lot of power. [more inside]
posted by Not Supplied at 12:43 PM PST - 14 comments

Help find a story about a kid who gets called "The Machine" by the Russian Mafia

Help me find a story about a kid who goes on a tour with his school to Russia, gets involved with some guys from the mafia, and ends up with the nickname "The Machine" [more inside]
posted by farmersckn at 12:39 PM PST - 5 comments

A New York Homestead

I've been idly dreaming about building a small house someday, something along the lines of the small houses (not the tiny ones) designed by Tumbleweed Tiny House Company. I'd like to know more about what this would entail in the area where I currently live. [more inside]
posted by ocherdraco at 12:34 PM PST - 8 comments

The shit that got Shakespeare back his groove

I want the best goddamned period music you've ever heard. Colonial, Renaissance, pre-classical... You name it I want it. No choral works. [more inside]
posted by Rory Marinich at 12:32 PM PST - 20 comments

How to handle a past DUI and security clearance in a small company.

Security clearance with a past DUI, how to handle it with bosses. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 12:23 PM PST - 12 comments

Can we curse on AskMe? I want to.

I'm bitter and angry at my ex-husband. Also, shallow. Please help me change. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 12:22 PM PST - 33 comments

Help me find a doctor!

I need to see an internist who accepts Medicare in NYC, as soon as possible. But I don't know who to see or even where to start looking. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 12:22 PM PST - 5 comments

My boyfriend may have fathered a child...

Just found out the boyfriend probably has an 8 year old son. Why am I so jealous? How do I let it go instead of ruminating on it? [more inside]
posted by thebeagle at 12:17 PM PST - 40 comments

Let's play "Please the Pescetarian!"

Mrs Supercres just switched from vegetarian to pescetarian (which she already asked about). And I'm a fish-cooking neophyte. Now that the initial shock / honeymoon is over, help us integrate fish and shellfish into our weekday dinners cheaply and conveniently. [more inside]
posted by supercres at 12:06 PM PST - 13 comments

GoDaddy Reseller Alternative or any other ideas?

Anyone Know of an Alternative to GoDaddy's (domain/hosting) Reseller Program? [more inside]
posted by hellodonna at 11:58 AM PST - 15 comments

I want information to just fly across the room willy-nilly.

Will you help me figure out what my printer-side port is so that I can convert my printer to Bluetooth-ready? [more inside]
posted by fujiko at 11:44 AM PST - 9 comments

I blue myself

Dyeing oneself blue by ingesting Brilliant Blue G? [more inside]
posted by logicpunk at 11:36 AM PST - 22 comments

A Link to the Reference Table Past

MS Access question. I have a table of references and a query that returns case numbers. Another table lists the references and case numbers that are linked to each other. I need to find a way to list the references for each case that are NOT linked to that case. Difficulty level inside. [more inside]
posted by charred husk at 11:10 AM PST - 6 comments

What bird is this?

What bird is featured on the RSPB 2009 Birds of Conservation Concern cover? Screenshot here.
posted by public at 10:19 AM PST - 3 comments

Which watch?

Can someone please tell me the pros/ cons/ differences between the Citizen 8700 and 2100 series men's watches? Do you have one or know someone who does? I have 3 specific models I am looking at. [more inside]
posted by MayNicholas at 10:15 AM PST - 23 comments

There has to be a good doctor here somewhere, right?

New health insurance, need a new primary care doctor. I live in Woburn, MA, so I'd prefer one as close to there as possible, and preferably female (though for awesome one, I'd accept a male doctor.) [more inside]
posted by katers890 at 9:34 AM PST - 5 comments

What do I need to watch out when chaperoning a friend's daughter at a concert?

What do I need to watch out when chaperoning a friend's daughter at a concert? [more inside]
posted by adipocere at 9:09 AM PST - 49 comments

My roommate really wants to have sex, maybe more. Is this such a bad thing?

Is sleeping with your roommate as bad of an idea that I am thinking that it is or am I making too big of a deal about it? [more inside]
posted by Botunda at 8:48 AM PST - 63 comments

Relative has screwed me over financially, help me minimize the impact and get repaid

A relative has just proceeded to screw me over financially. What is my best course of action? Should I sue? How can I handle the situation? Long explanation inside. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:33 AM PST - 30 comments

Audio OK, Video Wonky

Why won't my cellphone videos play on my computer? [more inside]
posted by davidmsc at 8:31 AM PST - 5 comments

It's NOT thrush

A question about IUD/the Coil - persistent infection and removal. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:30 AM PST - 9 comments

germanyfilter: visit after visa?

US citizen, living in Germany on a visa that is about to expire. I'll be leaving soon, but I want to return for a visit! How long do I have to wait before I can come back for one of those 90-day visa-less stays? [more inside]
posted by the_blizz at 8:19 AM PST - 4 comments

From Woof, Woof to Wiouf, Wiouf

Can I buy a seat on a plane for my dog? [more inside]
posted by JPD at 8:16 AM PST - 22 comments

Where to watch Perseids near NYC

Where's the best place to watch meteors within driving distance of Brooklyn? [more inside]
posted by pollex at 7:53 AM PST - 5 comments

MF seeks FPC for yearly health romp.

Please hope me. Can anyone personally recommend a good primary care doctor in Manhattan? Must be female, sorry this is non-negotiable. [more inside]
posted by eatdonuts at 7:50 AM PST - 8 comments

I'm a Aeroputz and need magical solution for mildew smell on rubber

You guys are my last hope: is there anything I can do to remove the mildew smell from my Aeropress plunger? It turns out I accidentally put the Aeropress away without removing the used coffee "puck" first — and it stayed that way for weeks. Of course, the rubber end of the plunger has a mildew smell, which seems invincible. We removed the rubber bit and I've tried covering it with baking soda, soaking it in vinegar, soaking it in vinegar and soda, soaking in dilute bleach, and then dilute peroxide. THEN... my husband sanded down the rubber end a bit, and I tried it all over again, to no avail. [more inside]
posted by taz at 7:44 AM PST - 23 comments

Ideas for visiting Louisville, Kentucky.

I live in Atlanta and take a couple of road trips a year by myself to clear my mind and write. I’m married and not looking for ‘a good time’ in that sense. Mostly I want to enjoy a good drive and a lively public space. A good local bookstore is a plus, but I’ll need a good coffee shop and some entertaining watering holes where I can sit in the corner and write. Parks and green spaces are also a plus. Also, as an Atlantan I really drive too much and would rather not do a lot of driving when I get to my destination. I’ve tried and enjoyed Asheville, NC for the past year or two, but I’m looking to change it up and give Louisville a try. Is Louisville what I’m looking for, and if so, where should I stay?
posted by wookywook at 7:41 AM PST - 14 comments

I Have a Dream, A Two-Wheeled Dream

Dream bike: I know what I want but how can I get it? Am I going to have to go to a custom shop and it is going to cost tons? Is there an easier way? What are the right terms to use when explaining it to a bike dude? [more inside]
posted by dame at 7:29 AM PST - 39 comments

Looking for a particular bag

I'm looking for the leather bag found in the LXD episode "The Lettermakers" found on Hulu. [more inside]
posted by abbsworth at 7:27 AM PST - 1 comment

This is not the disaster it appears to be, trust us.

What do crisis management PR campaigns such as BP and Toyota's actually accomplish and how? [more inside]
posted by the foreground at 7:24 AM PST - 7 comments

Mac Mail hangs after accidentally attached huge file

After accidentally attaching a huge file to an e-mail, Mac Mail hangs. How can we fix this? [more inside]
posted by Laura Macbeth at 7:18 AM PST - 8 comments

Craig's List advice

Craig's list help, please. [more inside]
posted by Postroad at 7:12 AM PST - 29 comments

don't fear the taxman

Anyone know what interest rate that the IRS charges on back taxes? Can't find this info anywhere. Thanks.
posted by bunny hugger at 6:53 AM PST - 4 comments

Recommendations for free iPhone Cases?

Can anyone recommend any of the free cases in the iPhone 4 case program? I have a little while left to order, but I haven't seen any of the cases in person (even the bumpers), and I don't know which to get. [more inside]
posted by dam1975 at 6:43 AM PST - 15 comments

Experiences with California Low Cost Auto Insurance?

Does anyone have experiences with the California Low Cost Auto Insurance (CLCA) program, and/or any advice for applying? (Anonymous because the program is only for individuals dancing with the poverty line, and I'd rather not make my financial circumstances known) [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 6:24 AM PST - 0 comments

Is this just wrong?

I have a crush on a girl that appears to be way too young for me. Appears. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 6:24 AM PST - 65 comments

School for the anti-student

How did you make school "work" for you? [more inside]
posted by Taft at 6:20 AM PST - 35 comments

Unexpected tri-state area leisure time...

Last-minute day off filter: Can anyone recommend a neat-o spot to spend the afternoon/evening within a couple hours of NYC? I'm looking for shopping, good places to eat, nifty scenery...and will award huge bonus points if there's a great record store involved. [more inside]
posted by mintcake! at 6:17 AM PST - 5 comments

Why don't they just go to Pizza Express?

In London there's a chain of restaurants called Aberdeen/Angus Steakhouse - dated decor, expensive, scorned by locals but seemingly extremely popular with tourists. Are there equivalents in other cities?
posted by mippy at 6:13 AM PST - 33 comments

A question about questions.

What do you wish you had asked / talked with your significant other about before you got hitched? [more inside]
posted by allkindsoftime at 6:10 AM PST - 20 comments

Breakfast ideas, please!

I need to find breakfast ideas that keep me full. I won't eat eggs, I'm allergic to soy and I don't care for oatmeal. What should I eat? [more inside]
posted by MorningPerson at 5:47 AM PST - 44 comments

Microsoft Excel or Substitute?

Microsoft Excel substitute (Open Office seems not to work) needed to open a spreadsheet (directory of businesses) based on macros. [more inside]
posted by mbarryf at 5:34 AM PST - 6 comments

How can I digitize my entire library?

I have many books - several thousand. I may soon be moving to a house with more limited space. I'm considering scanning all the books, and then destroying them or putting them into storage. Is this feasible? What hardware and software would I need? Has anyone done this already, and are there any internet resources to help with this? [more inside]
posted by siskin at 5:17 AM PST - 59 comments

Crippled iMac. Busted iBook. Tight budget. Do I repair the iBook or buy a netbook?

I'm returning to school and would like to have some sort of portable computer. I have a few options, but an not sure which is best in terms of budget and longer-term investment. [more inside]
posted by bestillme at 5:01 AM PST - 22 comments

Given short shrift at visit to the doctor

My husband recently had an appointment with a new doctor, primarily to discuss issues of mild depression and a mystery nodule in his inguinal region. Depression is not chronic or severe, and husband has never sought treatment for it before, but doctor (a) prescribed Effexor + Xanax right off the bat; (b) did not discuss "discontinuation syndrome" or other potential side effects; (c) did not look at the nodule at all. What would you do? [more inside]
posted by SomeTrickPony at 4:59 AM PST - 16 comments

Too much stuff for my car, too little for everything else.

Can you suggest a mover for a (very) small amount of stuff? I have to move to a new apartment in the next 2 weeks, but I have very little stuff : one bedroom's worth of furniture, a sofa, and a folding table with some chairs. I only have 2 boxes of books. I called some moving companies, but the smallest load they will take is still way more than I have. I live in the Maryland suburbs of DC. Thanks. [more inside]
posted by bluefly at 4:57 AM PST - 9 comments

How can I get rid of the smell of disinfectant?

Our basement flooded with sewage last week and was cleaned and then disinfected with Jeyes Fluid (a very strong dinsinfectant). Whilst this is a great improvement on the previous smell, it is pretty overpowering, and a week later there's no signs of it fading... Any tips for neutralising smell/replacing it with something better? Have tried leaving doors/windows open/incense/candles/air freshener to no effect.
posted by janecr at 4:42 AM PST - 6 comments

One bad Apple....

Fed up with Apple and want to try something else. [more inside]
posted by three blind mice at 3:44 AM PST - 18 comments

Moving cross-country. No new address. No money... Yikes!

My girlfriend and I are shipping all non fixtures from our 1 bedroom apartment across the country. We will not have a new address until after we move. What is the best way to ship everything? [more inside]
posted by 1awesomeguy at 3:22 AM PST - 8 comments

Replacing schools/golf courses/churches with vertical farms.

What are the not-so-obvious problems that may occur if a major city replaced dying schools/golf courses/churches with multi-leveled solar/geothermal powered hydroponic vertical farms? [more inside]
posted by querty at 2:19 AM PST - 29 comments

Name That Font

Can anyone identify this font? [more inside]
posted by mreleganza at 2:15 AM PST - 11 comments

August 10

Self-publish a friend's novel using MS Word?

My friend wrote a novel and is having trouble getting it published. I'd like to make a print copy of it for her on Lulu but I'm having trouble figuring out how to layout the type correctly. Also, I have never done this before. Help a type n00b do something nice for a friend. [more inside]
posted by PostIronyIsNotaMyth at 11:59 PM PST - 15 comments

What website will you compare the map of two cities side by side?

Website that will compare the size of two cities by show the map side by side. [more inside]
posted by Carius at 11:52 PM PST - 4 comments

The only chemist who does a triple integral without complaining

I studied mathematics and some computer science as an undergrad, and I loved it. I feel that my real passion, however, is in experimental sciences or engineering. What are some graduate school options for me? [more inside]
posted by scose at 11:15 PM PST - 9 comments

Yee Haw, Road Trip

I am driving from Coolangatta Gold Coast to Sydney next week - taking five days - and am interested in hearing your sightseeing/accommodation recommendations. [more inside]
posted by honey-barbara at 10:53 PM PST - 13 comments

Name these 1980s SF movies

Please guess what these creepy 1980s SF type films might be. They aired on HBO or Showtime in the mid-1980s. [more inside]
posted by crapmatic at 9:49 PM PST - 6 comments

Does anyone know what happened to Percy Paul, the mathematician?

Random documentary filter: I just watched this film about Percy Paul, a brilliant mathematician with bipolar disorder and I was wondering how he's doing today in 2010. By chance does anyone on the green know?
posted by bananafish at 9:36 PM PST - 2 comments

I'm good for it... I swear!

CreditFilter: What is the best way to improve credit, when facing bad credit that does not involve credit card debt? [more inside]
posted by broadway bill at 9:07 PM PST - 8 comments

To the bat-tube!

Can someone please help me locate a video, wav or mp3 of the announcer saying "same bat time, same bat channel" from the end of the old Batman TV series?
posted by ish__ at 8:01 PM PST - 3 comments

The logistics of placebos

Are there U.S. laws or professional guidelines regarding physicians prescribing placebos to patients, or is there really nothing stopping a doctor from misleading a patient about the efficacy of a drug? Furthermore, is it technically possible that popular medications many of us know by name could themselves be nothing more than placebo pills? [more inside]
posted by iamisaid at 7:36 PM PST - 16 comments

Sorting through the junkyard of movie memories

Can anyone identify for me the name of this bizarro comedy from the 80s/early 90s? [more inside]
posted by afabulousbeing at 7:26 PM PST - 8 comments

Seeming simple question about HTML lists.

I want to use a different image for each bullet in a list, but I'm stuck. [more inside]
posted by gofargogo at 7:13 PM PST - 10 comments

Are there any wines from 1970 worth shipping/drinking for $200 or less?

Is there a point to buying and shipping a 1970 vintage wine to Texas for less than $200? Or will it just taste terrible? [more inside]
posted by unknowncommand at 7:07 PM PST - 6 comments

coworker invades personal privacy

My coworker read my personal files. Should confront him, avoid the confrontation, or bring the issue to Human Resources? [more inside]
posted by arugula at 6:58 PM PST - 29 comments

Too Much Cornmeal

I've recently found myself in possession of 7.5 pounds (five full cartons) of corn meal. What can I do with this great corny bounty? Bonus points for being able to use as much as possible in a single batch of *something.* Projects, crafts, household tips, or recipe suggestions needed. Difficulty: Please NO corn bread or polenta recipes. [more inside]
posted by cuddles.mcsnuggy at 6:42 PM PST - 27 comments

How can I get a contact lens prescription without buying lenses from the same place?

How can I get a contact lens prescription without buying lenses from the same place? [more inside]
posted by pravit at 6:34 PM PST - 9 comments

Citronella Collar: Can I refill it with water?

I have a Coon Hound and she barks a LOT. Pretty much on a constant basis. She has gotten much better about barking, but my husband and I are fixing to move and when we are gone we have been told that she howls/barks/cries the ENTIRE time we are gone. I have been looking at Citronella Collars, but before I opt into buying one I need to know if I can refill it with water. [more inside]
posted by eastinwifey09 at 6:28 PM PST - 8 comments

[novice photog filter] Where can my wife learn photography?

Mrs. Draccy would like to take an intro to photography class near Worcester, MA, but I am unable to find something relevant to a novice (read: near no experience) photog. She doesn't enjoy using the internet to learn and would prefer classroom or workshop environments. Any suggestions?
posted by Draccy at 6:23 PM PST - 4 comments

I want to be a brain in a jar

I’m feeling really devastated right now, and could use some solid, grounded advice. The big picture: last night I finally talked to my husband about why we weren’t having sex. Like, at all. Turns out it’s because I’m fat. How do I get over the pain of this revelation and what should I do about this mess I find myself in, emotionally? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 6:14 PM PST - 121 comments

If only they made a Fitrester

Looking for advice on a new-to-me car. Anyone with experience of late-model Subaru Foresters, Honda Fits, and the AWD vs. FWD question? I'll be in central NJ. Loooong-winded "more inside" with a summary. [more inside]
posted by dondiego87 at 6:12 PM PST - 26 comments

Where on the Web might I find the thoughts and/or creations of amateur album art creato

Where on the Web might I find the thoughts and/or creations of amateur album art creators?
posted by Joe Beese at 6:05 PM PST - 2 comments

Skin care in my thirties

My skin's celebrating its birthday this week! [more inside]
posted by Everydayville at 6:03 PM PST - 8 comments

Give Me a Portal, Please!

I'm looking for an online solution and don't know if it exists. A customizable and private web portal that is widget-based (or similar) that I don't have to code myself, which a small group of people can have access to. [more inside]
posted by jeanmari at 5:49 PM PST - 10 comments

How much do I need to explain about my crime?

I need to know if I've explained my "crime" sufficiently for a volunteer position that requires a "police background check." [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:44 PM PST - 11 comments

Help me pare down my shape!

What can I do to become less pear-shaped? Pear shape = Tiny breasts, huge thighs. Resources for work-outs, success stories or even ways to help me accept myself the way I am are greatly appreciated! [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:44 PM PST - 30 comments

What are your favorite LGBTQ YouTube accounts and blogs?

What are your favorite YouTube accounts and blogs by members of the LGBTQ and kink community? [more inside]
posted by anonymuk at 5:21 PM PST - 14 comments

What movie is this?

What's this American movie? I only remember one scene - two guys, holding a third guy in between them (by his legs and arms); they bust in a door, run down a hallway yelling then dump the third guy into a bathtub full of shit. Aired on Australian TV as the Sunday night movie, c1985. [more inside]
posted by goo at 5:20 PM PST - 7 comments

I promise not to unlesh demons and or virii

Going' To A Cabin In Maine For A Week -Filter: So it looks like I'm spending a week in Palermo, ME at a friend's cabin by the lake. What did you wish you did during your rustic cabin adventure? What did you wish you brought? Tips for surviving or enjoying? Fun stuff to see in the area or places or food that can't be missed? Fun things to do with your SO along? We'll have a bike, a car, running water and some limited internet access. [more inside]
posted by The Whelk at 5:14 PM PST - 28 comments

Please help me identify all the films excerpted on threeframes.net

Please help me identify all the films excerpted on threeframes.net [more inside]
posted by MetaMonkey at 5:13 PM PST - 2 comments

Help me put bottles of Benedictine liqueur, amaretto, and sambuca to good use

Help me put bottles of Benedictine liqueur, amaretto, and sambuca to good use. [more inside]
posted by Paragon at 5:07 PM PST - 13 comments

Upgrade current iPad?

What is the best way to get a second generation iPad when it comes out in exchange for my current one? The most cost effective way would be the best.
posted by antgly at 4:52 PM PST - 4 comments

Help me instill a recycling program at my work! I have no idea how though.

I want to start a recycling program at my work. How feasible is this, how do I get support and prove that it's worth the cost to whoever I need to prove it to, etc, as an employee very far down the food chain? [more inside]
posted by tweedle at 4:41 PM PST - 9 comments

No, it's not Se7en!

Vague childhood memory of watching an old B&W creepy movie, very likely a Vincent Price movie, but I cannot pick it out from his imdb listings. [more inside]
posted by Jazz Hands at 4:38 PM PST - 3 comments

Help me track down an old hilarious comment thread about embarrassing children

Trying to track down a comment thread that made the rounds three years ago where a bunch of parents posted stories where their young children embarrassed the daylights out of them. [more inside]
posted by ambulance blues at 4:15 PM PST - 3 comments

Where can I purchase Chemex coffee filters in Minneapolis-St Paul?

Where can I find Chemex filters to purchase in Minneapolis-St Paul area? I rummaged up an old Chemex coffee maker and I know I'm able to order filters online, but is there anywhere locally that I can purchase the fliters. Thanks in advance!
posted by fancydave at 4:04 PM PST - 8 comments

Childhood Book Set in Medieval Times

I read this book in the 1970s or possibly the early 1980s. The story is set in medieval times, the main character is a girl and it has to do with damask roses (breeding or raising them?). There's more too it of course, but that's all I remember. The book was a paperback and the cover had a full colour drawing of the girl on the front standing by some roses. I believe she's wearing a rose coloured cotehardie or something similar. A rock wall or well may have also been in the background of the cover.
posted by deborah at 3:53 PM PST - 5 comments

My schedule is totally not interested in you

Mind-reading Filter: What does this mean - "Well, I'm totally booked up this week... I don't know what my schedule is next week." [more inside]
posted by XMLicious at 3:47 PM PST - 21 comments

Combatting Transphobia 101?

Dear enlightened AskMe, can you help me talk well, make clear points and provide quality links to nerdy teenagers on the internet about transgender issues? [more inside]
posted by Mizu at 3:44 PM PST - 11 comments

How can I patch the exposed cinder block at my back door?

RenoFilter: So I've had a external door cut and installed in a cinder-block wall. How the heck should I finish / patch up the exposed cinder-blocks? Concrete? Siding? Pictures inside. [more inside]
posted by consummate dilettante at 3:22 PM PST - 3 comments

Beloved Beach Hut

We’re trying to find a destination for a non-hotel beach vacation in the Caribbean or Central America. [more inside]
posted by Jode at 3:19 PM PST - 6 comments

When can a third party make a case for copyright infringement?

Where are my DMCA and IP and web publishing experts? Need some generic legal-ish advice. [more inside]
posted by pineapple at 3:06 PM PST - 13 comments

How can I keep my cat off the back of the couch?

How can I keep my cat off the back of the couch? [more inside]
posted by illenion at 3:01 PM PST - 22 comments

What's the best place for a Fantasy Football League?

What's the best site to manage a custom NFL fantasy football league? There are a ton of options, but teh google failed me in finding a comprehensive site that evaluates all the systems out there. Most reviews I did find were old. Anyone have any suggestions?
posted by impolitic at 2:51 PM PST - 2 comments

Cat is in the Bag

Flying with a cat soon and I have a basic question about the luggage side of the procedure- is the extra fee for the animal equal to the "fare" for the little guy? if so do I as the seat holder [who also paid a fare] still get one carry on bag AND one "personal" bag, laptop or purse? Seems like it should be so since without the animal I would have that limit and I pay extra for the space the cat uses as well.
posted by Freedomboy at 2:49 PM PST - 10 comments

help me find a beloved book from my youth

(book filter) A young boy befriends a tallking dog who is actually an alien from outer space. [more inside]
posted by TLCplz at 2:39 PM PST - 13 comments

Always wanted a pair of these, now I'm ready to buy!

Ring Boots: Need advice on the right pair to buy [more inside]
posted by sundrop at 2:20 PM PST - 2 comments

My sister's in a bind

My youngest sister has been married less than a year, is ten weeks pregnant, and just left her husband. How do I help her? [more inside]
posted by operalass at 2:19 PM PST - 20 comments

Short term flat rental in London?

Looking for a short-term flat rental in London. One month, probably. Has anyone had a good experience with a particular vacation rental company or have any other advice? [more inside]
posted by meerkatty at 1:58 PM PST - 10 comments

Infant 101

We are having our first baby soon. Yay... Any info and advice appreciated. What is your trusted brand, tip and trick on selecting baby formula, diaper to crib. What about car seat? Would a cheap one from wal-mart would work? I mean all the car seats in the market has to meet the current safety standards, right? I went through most of the old AskMeFi thread, but if there's one you particularly like, please do link.
posted by WizKid at 12:56 PM PST - 53 comments

How do I get a fresh coffee stain out of a chair?

I just spilled coffee on an upholstered office chair. How do I get it out? [more inside]
posted by pintapicasso at 12:55 PM PST - 9 comments

NBA players with big hands?

Sports filter: I have some questions about hand size among basketball players. [more inside]
posted by mullacc at 12:52 PM PST - 15 comments

Anthemic Contemporary Songs

What songs from the last five or so years of pop/rock music would you describe as "anthemic"? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 12:34 PM PST - 67 comments

Pittsburgh: The man who fell into an upholstery machine is fully recovered

What Pittsburgh-area stores have the widest selection of upholstery fabric? [more inside]
posted by jocelmeow at 12:08 PM PST - 3 comments

It's a game of tug-of-war, and I'm the rope

I got a new job that wants me to start right away. Needless to say my boss at my current job is miffed that I'm not giving the classic two week's notice. How can I handle this? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 12:05 PM PST - 51 comments

Good books about Prague?

I'm heading to Prague for a few weeks and would like to know more about the history and culture there. Can anyone suggest good books (including historical fiction/novels)? [more inside]
posted by coolguymichael at 11:48 AM PST - 13 comments

Best tweaks for jailbroken iphone?

Thanks to the easy new web-based jailbreaking tool, even an idiot like me was able to jailbreak my iPhone4. I've been enjoying it for a few days, but there are a few functionalities that I'd love to add to my phone, that I can't seem to find on Cydia, etc. I'm pretty new at this, so can anyone help me find an easy way to tweak my phone in the following ways [more inside]
posted by ericbop at 11:44 AM PST - 5 comments

How do I encourage my wife to lose weight...?

How do I encourage my wife to lose weight...? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 11:41 AM PST - 60 comments

Kevin Nealon SNL sketch where guest cries + he smiles?

What was the name of the character in the SNL sketch where Kevin Nealon was a TV interviewer, he'd keep questioning guests until they cry, and then he'd make a strange satisfied face at the camera? [more inside]
posted by rodmandirect at 11:35 AM PST - 4 comments

Help Me Start Paying My Dues!

ResumeFilter: What do social justice/community organizing groups look for? How do I find the good ones? [more inside]
posted by Truthiness at 11:32 AM PST - 5 comments

Is Davidlynch.com dead (or in a coma)?

Does anyone know whats going on with David Lynch.com? [more inside]
posted by senseofsurreal at 11:29 AM PST - 2 comments

Gantt Charts for Basecamp

What's the best Basecamp add-on for making Gantt charts? [more inside]
posted by otherwordlyglow at 11:25 AM PST - 0 comments

A good glue can stave of entropy and fill you with a warm glow.

I want to take Casio watches (or the equivalent) and/or old cell phones and glue stuff to them--beads, bits of circuit board, Lego minifig heads, etc. What would be the best glue for this purpose? [more inside]
posted by mecran01 at 11:18 AM PST - 6 comments

Learning to carve?

How long does it take to learn how to carve wooden objects, and how expensive is it to get set up? [more inside]
posted by mattkh at 11:10 AM PST - 10 comments

Single grub/larva on kitchen table

Found this grub/maggot/larva on kitchen table. (Apartment's kitchen, "dining area," living area are all connected.) Just a single bug, not a whole clutch of them. Should I be concerned? I kind of expected there would be more of them. Did it come out of the nearby fruit dish with apples and bananas? Do I have to do any radical cleaning? Is my kitchen that dirty?
posted by Busoni at 11:01 AM PST - 9 comments

Help me learn Adobe Production Premium Suite... please!

Best way to learn to use Adobe Production Premium Suite? [more inside]
posted by peripatew at 10:59 AM PST - 3 comments

History

I am a student with a embarrassingly poor knowledge of social and political history. As such I can't engage with current affairs and understand political problems on a deeper level. What would you recommend as good books/films/novels which give an outline of a certain important period in history? How can I improve my general knowledge of the past? [more inside]
posted by freud at 10:59 AM PST - 29 comments

Help me identify this SciFi novel.

Help me identify this SciFi novel. I can't remember the title or who wrote it. I read it back in the late 1970s or early 80s, so it is at least that old. [more inside]
posted by governale at 10:57 AM PST - 5 comments

How hard is the PTCB exam?

How hard is the PTCB test, really? [more inside]
posted by lizjohn at 10:42 AM PST - 2 comments

Anti-MaryJane

Arguments Against Marijuana. Why not smoke pot? [more inside]
posted by Flood at 10:09 AM PST - 53 comments

Reporting Merchants who Charge Fees for Cedit Cards

How/where do you report merchants (and even city/county/government agencies) that are charging a “fee” for using credit cards as a form of payment? [more inside]
posted by lutzla23 at 10:02 AM PST - 17 comments

What to do about burnout when you can't be replaced immediately?

I run a small charity that works with several hundred children with about 40 staff doing operations and two people working with me on fundraising and management. I'm unpaid and fulltime, and completely burnt out but it's not a job I can quit or handover immediately - I'm doing a transition to half-time, but it will take another six months, due to the specialised work. How do I stop myself from just setting fire to my desk one day? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:52 AM PST - 8 comments

Gravely grappling with gravel grandeur

What size gravel do I need to (a) top up my driveway and (b) fill in a trench? [more inside]
posted by Shepherd at 9:37 AM PST - 11 comments

Dictionary Add-in for Word 2003?

The default dictionary in Word 2003 is burdened by slow response time from the query server @ Microsoft. We're fed up with it in our corporate environment. Does anyone know a third-party app that integrates well with Word 2003?
posted by iam2bz2p at 9:29 AM PST - 5 comments

Dying hard drive or something else?

iMac starts up very slowly, freezes during use, and I am unable to successfully run Time Machine or manually copy files to external drive. [more inside]
posted by preparat at 8:57 AM PST - 11 comments

The Great Livejournal Migration of 2010

A friend is thinking of doing away with her Livejournal and writing Facebook notes instead so she asked for comments and thoughts to help with her decision. What sorts of comments and thoughts should she be most aware of?
posted by Green With You at 8:52 AM PST - 36 comments

I like my fruit mushy.

Is fruit juice really not as good as regular fruit? [more inside]
posted by Tarumba at 8:48 AM PST - 27 comments

Slayer one press Ptart

I have been trying to get a job in the game industry, I'm close but I need to take the next step. Thing is, I'm not sure what that is. [more inside]
posted by hellojed at 8:43 AM PST - 10 comments

Sleeping in my car...

I am driving out to Newport, RI next week. I plan on sleeping in my car and would like to know if there are any safe, quiet places (with a nearby public bathroom or 24hour diner) to park at night in Newport or around there?
posted by likeapen at 8:39 AM PST - 8 comments

Bonus if you can tell me where to find giant sock puppts in Vegas dancing to 'How Do You Like Me Now?'

I'm doing Denver-Utah-Vegas later this week. Suggestions on food/sights/activities? [more inside]
posted by unannihilated at 8:35 AM PST - 6 comments

Mac unzip/unrar software with preview?

Is there unZIPping/unRARing software for the Mac that allows you to see what's inside of an archive file without extraction? Seems like double-clicking on archives with any software I've used immediately extracts the files within. I'd like to be able to preview those files first, and perhaps selectively extract, or not extract at all.
posted by shivohum at 8:34 AM PST - 5 comments

Bike Racks - Double Fare?

Washington State Ferries. . .We are going to the San Juans and taking our bikes. Height rules indicate a 100% surcharge for over-height vehicles (which having our bikes upright will cause). Can we lay our bikes flat on the racks, once we get to the ferry line? [more inside]
posted by Danf at 8:12 AM PST - 7 comments

Teen with toxic mama

Handling a teen-relative-with-alcoholic-mom... [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:51 AM PST - 17 comments

All About Gauge

[Knitting Filter] I got the knit. Got the purl. Got the reading of patterns. Now let's talk about gauge. [more inside]
posted by zizzle at 7:41 AM PST - 16 comments

I'm hungry. RSS feed me.

What's the best application for syncing RSS feeds between a Mac and an iPod Touch? [more inside]
posted by divisjm at 7:34 AM PST - 9 comments

What's My Motivation

How do you stay motivated in cubicle hell? I go through bouts of being motivated, sometimes for weeks. I am on top of my emails. I am making the phone calls. I am knocking down deliverables. I am having productive team meetings. And then something happens. I can't be bothered. I don't actively manage my inbox. My commitment to following GTD falls apart. I let certain things slip through the cracks. I just don't feel like doing any work. And then two weeks later I get motivated again. This has plagued me forever. Same thing in university. It's like I have ADD but instead of losing focus in the span of seconds, I lose focus in the span of weeks. How can I keep my foot on the gas pedal and feel like I am not a corporate bum half the time. Anyone else like this? Anyone have any tricks for keeping at a steady productive state?
posted by jasondigitized at 7:22 AM PST - 14 comments

How can I give this wine to someone who can appreciate it properly?

I have a bottle of wine that's too valuable to drink. How can I sell it? [more inside]
posted by reren at 7:20 AM PST - 24 comments

Old electrical outlet for pool

We got rid of our swimming pool and we're left with an electrical outlet mounted on a wooden post in the middle of our yard. It's rarely used but I don't want to get rid of it. I also don't want to have to look at it or mow around it. What are my options? [more inside]
posted by 14580 at 7:19 AM PST - 5 comments

Star Trek on Blu-Ray

I'm looking to buy blu-ray versions of all of the Star Trek movies. Problem is, I just want high-quality versions of the VHS tapes I had as a kid in the 80s and 90s (because really, most of the allure is nostalgia here). I don't want director's cuts, special versions, or anything like that- just the original VHS releases. Amazon is confusing the hell out of me, because there are about 40 versions of each movie and I'm not sure what is what. Does anyone have a link to the original movies, for sale, on blu-ray?
posted by zap rowsdower at 7:05 AM PST - 6 comments

Hebrew language support for the iPad

When will the iPad fully support Hebrew? [more inside]
posted by greenmagnet at 6:56 AM PST - 2 comments

IMAP backup

I would like to have a local mbox or Maildir backup of an IMAP account. I've investigated offlineimap, getmail and imapsync, but none seem quite right. Am I missing something? Or is there a better solution? [more inside]
posted by caek at 6:46 AM PST - 5 comments

Does my computer have a simple illness?

PC has gone down. Does this sound like a common problem? [more inside]
posted by Frasermoo at 6:36 AM PST - 7 comments

Should I give him another chance?

Just found out my boyfriend has been cheating on me, multiple times. I decided to give him another chance. What is wrong with me??? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 6:32 AM PST - 56 comments

I am a man who drives the local bus

How do I apply for a job that I already have, knowing that I will most likely not get it job? Details inside. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 6:32 AM PST - 14 comments

FWB Filter: Does it Work?

Friends with Benefits filter (NSFW). Single straight woman, mid 40's. Despite putting in a reasonable effort, I haven't met anybody that I would like to pursue a relationship with. But I do have an attractive buddy who I'm certain would be up for a FWB thing. We dated 20 years ago, no interest in going that route. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 6:30 AM PST - 13 comments

Send them back to school. Can't think anymore.

Please help me come up with a reasonable comprehensive list for back-to-school wardrobe requirements for 16 year old boy, and 13 and 12 year old girls, living in New England and doing their laundry once a week. [more inside]
posted by maloon at 6:24 AM PST - 12 comments

How did Roman Polanski direct scenes shot in America in Ghost Writer

In what sense was Roman Polanski the director of "Ghost Writer"? I see in his wikipedia article that he has been unable to visit many countries because he would be deported to America to face rape charges. I just watched the movie and was clear to me that a lot of stuff was shot in America; the IMDB indeed lists Germany and the UK as locations, but also Massachusetts. How did he direct those scenes from across the ocean? And..when was this all shot? Apparently Polanski had been under house arrest in Switzerland in 2009. Maybe I just don't totally grok the job of a director, but I don't see how he could have directed the scenes in America. Nobody else is listed on the credits as a director. Was there a Ghost director involved?
posted by Osmanthus at 6:20 AM PST - 8 comments

You kicked me out and now want to hang out with me?

A couple of years ago, an acquaintance invited me to join a book club that met on Wednesday nights. I joined and came to meetings for several months. Then, one night, I walked in on Thursday night book club by accident... [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 6:03 AM PST - 11 comments

Win for losing?

Slightly NSFW.I am currently on the road to losing a good deal of weight. How much might my perception of my penis size change? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 6:02 AM PST - 16 comments

We! Are! Similar To! Sex Bob-omb!!

Can you recommend some bands that sound like Sex Bo-Bomb from Scott Pilgrim vs. The World? [more inside]
posted by joelhunt at 6:01 AM PST - 8 comments

What bit me up while I slept?

I have a pretty specific set of questions about what might've bitten the hell out of me while I slept the other night. [more inside]
posted by Rudy Gerner at 5:50 AM PST - 13 comments

Recommend me some great South American fiction

Less magical, more realism. Recommend me some great South American fiction. [more inside]
posted by sleepy boy at 5:26 AM PST - 16 comments

Driving something with a boot the size of my thumb.

Creating a bootable copy of Windows 7 64 bit on a USB drive. [more inside]
posted by 517 at 5:10 AM PST - 8 comments

European postcode map

Where can I source a high-res map of Europe with postcode areas marked? [more inside]
posted by Blackwatch at 4:51 AM PST - 7 comments

Sing-along songs for post-wedding party?

MusicFites: Can you suggest some good acoustic guitar sing-along songs for a post-wedding party? [more inside]
posted by StephenF at 4:34 AM PST - 14 comments

Amazon moneys to real moneys

I gained some money through the Amazon associates program. I have apprx. 200$ hanging around (but growing). There's many things i would have liked to buy - but I am in Europe and Amazon won't ship anything that has a warranty abroad... apparently i can only get books and audio cds and dvds (but wrong region). So, short of having a friend going there and bringing stuff back, what can i order or how can i order ? anybody knows if i can convert my Amazon moneys into real moneys, maybe even after a fee?
posted by madeinitaly at 4:25 AM PST - 12 comments

How to stop a cat invading my house?

How do I prevent repeated cat home invasions? [more inside]
posted by girlwonder at 3:26 AM PST - 23 comments

The basics of graphic design for a landscape architect

What basic graphic design books/resources/links can you recommend to a landscape architect? [more inside]
posted by simplesharps at 2:37 AM PST - 10 comments

August 9

bloggez-vous français?

Where online would French-language bloggers hang out? [more inside]
posted by threeants at 10:19 PM PST - 4 comments

Help me develop a curriculum for an HTML course

You are learning HTML on the internet via a set of instructional videos. What do you expect to be taught? How do you expect to be taught it? What useless things do you hope will be left out? What great things do you hope are included? [more inside]
posted by brenton at 10:07 PM PST - 12 comments

Where to go for creative body-hire in Hong Kong

Does anyone know of a creative (eg. graphic designers, writers, editors, web-designers, document publishers, publications coordinators) body-hire firm in Hong Kong?
posted by Neale at 9:49 PM PST - 1 comment

Get Me to a Dermatologist!

NYC dermatologist recommendation? [more inside]
posted by enzymatic at 9:28 PM PST - 3 comments

Outdoor activities in Kalamazoo

What are the primo outdoor fun opportunities in Kalamazoo, MI? [more inside]
posted by thewestinggame at 9:01 PM PST - 5 comments

Looking for a point-and-shoot that can handle action and macro. Want quality photos, not high MegaPixels!

Looking for a point-and-shoot that can handle action and macro. Want quality photos, not high MegaPixels! [more inside]
posted by jesirose at 8:52 PM PST - 18 comments

Am I overdoing my RAM for a 32 bit version of Windows 7 Pro

I have a HP Pavilion dv6700 (dv6780se) laptop which i recently upgraded to Windows 7 pro via a free copy from the msdn alliance. I am currently running 3 gigs of physical RAM in 2 slots. I recently read an article suggesting a change to the virtual memory paging file size. From what i gathered you should or can increase the size by multiplying the current amount times 1.5. This would change my total virtual memory to 4605, is this wise? Should i leave it on the save hard drive has my OS or move it to a partition or separate external hard drive? I've also read that readyboost can increase performance... is this still quite debatable for Windows 7 and am I already pushing the limits of my RAM and virtual memory?
posted by isopropyl at 8:43 PM PST - 8 comments

Rules of engagement after termination

Is there a rule stating that during a period after an individual's employment has terminated, he/she can not contact a former client or prospect of the former company? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:51 PM PST - 13 comments

Replacing a car horn switch

Help me replace, rewire, or otherwise rig the horn switch in a Dodge steering wheel. [more inside]
posted by zennie at 7:36 PM PST - 9 comments

Do I owe the government?

My employer is paying my tuition, and told me that I could claim the amount as a deduction, because it's a taxable benefit. I did, and now I've received a letter from Revenue Canada asking me to submit a T2202 form and to tell them who had given me money for my tuition. (I filed online, which is why I hadn't submitted the T2202 before.) Was I wrong to claim this deduction? (You aren't my tax lawyer, but you know about these things.)
posted by smilingtiger at 7:28 PM PST - 8 comments

Can a hare become a tortoise?

How can I train myself to do [anything] every day? Help me to re-calibrate my routine-resistant brain. [more inside]
posted by Alabaster at 6:35 PM PST - 22 comments

Flytte til Århus

Tell me about renting in Aarhus and the logistics of moving to Denmark from the United States. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 6:25 PM PST - 3 comments

Should I put drop handlebars on my bike or get a second bike?

Should I put drop handlebars on my bike or get a second bike? [more inside]
posted by JulianDay at 6:19 PM PST - 29 comments

rogue.scanner.1514

How to remove "rogue scanner 1514" Windows malware? [more inside]
posted by miyabo at 6:16 PM PST - 8 comments

Heard a "saying." Is it real?

Does this "African saying" actually exist? [more inside]
posted by Buffaload at 6:15 PM PST - 4 comments

First names in Japanese honorifics?

In Japanese society, it is really that awkward when someone asks you to call them by their first name (given name)? [more inside]
posted by reductiondesign at 6:09 PM PST - 17 comments

Are we there yet?

I've been asked to help someone drive cross-country from Florida to Washington. Should I accept? [more inside]
posted by levijk at 5:29 PM PST - 23 comments

Two for the Road?

How to approach a trip abroad with my wonderful, new, long-distance boyfriend? [more inside]
posted by bookgirl18 at 5:26 PM PST - 8 comments

WTF is wrong with my RTF?

I am having trouble editing an RTF file by using a Windows Batch file. Any batch or RTF guru's out there? [more inside]
posted by AltReality at 5:25 PM PST - 4 comments

To make a man happy...

Someone I care for deeply is splitting up with his wife and moving into his own apartment. They have been together for 8 years, and he was married before as well, so he hasn't lived on his own very much in his adult life. I'd like to send him something incredible. [more inside]
posted by nosila at 5:02 PM PST - 9 comments

How should we open a local music venue where bands will be recorded professionally?

What's the best way to go about opening a local venue, where artists can record their music, and play music live and have it documented (photographed, and recorded [among a lot of other ideas])? [more inside]
posted by ejfox at 5:01 PM PST - 7 comments

How old is 30?

I'm a woman who turned 30 this year. Some parts of my life are great; others aren't quite where I'd like them to be, and I'm starting to worry that 30 is Too Old to change that, especially in terms of relationships and future families (I'm currently single, would like in the future to be married with kids). I'm having some trouble telling the difference between 'reasonable concern' and 'worrying about nothing' here, and could do with some assistance. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:45 PM PST - 31 comments

OCD books

Have you had success with an OCD book? Which one(s)? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:44 PM PST - 5 comments

You want to do what to Ghost?

Cat Vet Filter: My vet wants to cauterize some ulcers on my cat's gums tomorrow. Does anyone know anything about this? [more inside]
posted by Some1 at 4:39 PM PST - 5 comments

Cropped thumbnails: I thought it was a common, simple procedure but I was wrong

How do you make a gallery of thumbnail images which are cropped out of a section of the image? [more inside]
posted by twins named Lugubrious and Salubrious at 4:37 PM PST - 4 comments

Law/Rule/Phrase/Principle

What's the name of the internet rule/law/principle that goes something like 'Whenever you pedantically correct someone on the internet that correction will have an error itself'?
posted by eurasian at 4:19 PM PST - 12 comments

Sudden Urge for Environmental Informatics Reading

Good sources of interesting articles in the area of environmental informatics? [more inside]
posted by JoeXIII007 at 4:11 PM PST - 2 comments

Am I A Fugutive?

I was issued two citations for speeding from New York State Police in the mid 90's. I never paid them. When I got the second one, I assumed that the officer would arrest me or at least mention the first but he did not. I have never had a New York State driver's license and I have had licenses renewed by the state of which I was a resident at the time and the one in which I have resided for ten years. Nor any problems with insurance. Should I do anything about this? [more inside]
posted by Willy Wombat at 3:52 PM PST - 8 comments

Favorite trails in Utah's National Parks?

What are your favorite trails in Canyonlands National Park and Arches National Park? [more inside]
posted by ztdavis at 3:49 PM PST - 11 comments

I need your Amsterdam secrets!

I will be moving to Amsterdam in ten days for academic reasons. I would love to hear any tricks, tips, secrets and anecdotes about Amsterdam to help make the next stage in my life more amazing and exciting than it would be without them. [more inside]
posted by tumples at 3:48 PM PST - 10 comments

Need ECCO Yucatan sandal replacement

I need a less expensive alternative to Ecco's Women's Yucatan sandals. Recommendations please. Specifics inside. [more inside]
posted by ticketmaster10 at 3:35 PM PST - 4 comments

Cheap Pint Chicago?

Where can I get a PBR in the loop? [more inside]
posted by chicago2penn at 3:30 PM PST - 6 comments

What should my résumé say when it comes to freelance?

How do I list my (more and more extensive) freelance design work on my résumé in a good way. [more inside]
posted by Brainy at 3:25 PM PST - 4 comments

Where is the spectacle in earth-friendly technology?

The sophisticated engineering, delicate structure and graceful flight of solar-powered aircraft is a beautiful vision in efficiency. A formation of fighter jets makes the very skies thunder and the ground shake, exciting in its power. This dichotomy is everywhere, especially machine racing sports. So where can environmentalists and energy efficiency enthusiasts get the excitement of power without the indulgence of excessive wastefulness? And where can people who love seeing jaw-dropping power get fired up by green technology without having to develop an appreciation for boring economy? [more inside]
posted by -harlequin- at 3:14 PM PST - 18 comments

What in blue hell am I supposed to say?

My friend is seeing a married man. I am NOT excited at all for her. How do I stay out of it when all she ever does is talk about how great he is? Help me mind my own business. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 3:03 PM PST - 35 comments

Don't want to give up my telephone number

What is the simplest and cheapest way to hold onto a telephone number? [more inside]
posted by _sirmissalot_ at 3:02 PM PST - 12 comments

I didn't sign on to be single mom

My husband's schedule is making me miserable and resentful. He can't change his schedule right now, so what I can do to deal with it better? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 3:02 PM PST - 17 comments

Looking for a place to buy some unique glasses frames in downtown San Francisco

Basically the title says it all. I'm in SFO for a bit and would like to buy some new glasses. Recommend me a place to find something special. Thanks a mil!
posted by treyka at 3:00 PM PST - 8 comments

Through rose-colored glasses

A couple of years ago, I tried on a pair of women's eyeglasses with very light pink thickish rectangular frames at Lenscrafters. The arms were also fairly thick. I believe they were DKNY or Donna Karan. They also came in black. Can you help me find them? [more inside]
posted by emilyd22222 at 2:54 PM PST - 2 comments

Commuting from Orange County to San Diego

Commuting to San Diego from Orange Country: Any insights? [more inside]
posted by EatenByAGrue at 2:41 PM PST - 15 comments

How do I sell myself?

How do I get better at being a people person and a sales person (self promotion)? [more inside]
posted by [insert clever name here] at 2:30 PM PST - 7 comments

Where can I find a swing arm lamp for a thick table?

Where can I find a swing arm lamp for a thick table? [more inside]
posted by Tallguy at 2:09 PM PST - 4 comments

Ow my brain

What information should be included in my headache journal? [more inside]
posted by brainmouse at 2:04 PM PST - 18 comments

U.S. State data maps.

How do I easily make a map like this, from data like this? [more inside]
posted by Stu-Pendous at 1:57 PM PST - 13 comments

Panties That Stay Put On Big Bottomed Girls

Co-worker claims no style of panties she has tried will stay put on her big bottom--have you found a particular brand and style that works? [more inside]
posted by moonlitpines at 1:50 PM PST - 40 comments

I want to assemble a setlist for piano + voice for an old-timey venue.

I want to assemble a setlist for piano + voice for an old-timey venue. [more inside]
posted by thedaniel at 1:43 PM PST - 11 comments

Our business needs an agent.

Is there such thing as a business contract "headhunter" or someone who would find us contracts for our business and take a cut of the contract, then go on their merry way -- sort of like an agent the way actors have agents? [more inside]
posted by thorny at 1:41 PM PST - 9 comments

If your camera can't take the heat, get a new camera?

My job needs a point-and-shoot camera that is more heat-resistant than the Kodak EasyShare we have been using. [more inside]
posted by steeb2er at 1:24 PM PST - 7 comments

How can I help my wife want sex?

How can I help my wife want sex? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 1:20 PM PST - 40 comments

I need to get rid of Diseases of the Skin and Medical Gynecology...

Where to sell about 10 medical books (1909-1940) that are in good/very good condition? [more inside]
posted by mrs. taters at 1:08 PM PST - 4 comments

Looking for a specific NYC street artist

I'm looking for a specific street artist / vendor I saw in Union Square Park in NYC 2 or 3 months ago. [more inside]
posted by Venadium at 1:01 PM PST - 7 comments

Looking for men's fashion videos / podcasts

Looking for men's fashion videos / podcasts similar to Put This On and In the Closet. [more inside]
posted by lxh at 12:48 PM PST - 2 comments

what does 60k salary look like?

What does like on 60k salary look like? mortgage, car, bike, job title, investment portfolio, social activities, married, kids? [more inside]
posted by UltraD at 12:45 PM PST - 45 comments

I don't need to overthink it, the plate as-is is quite gross.

I want to like beans, but the texture is generally too mushy or mealy. What are some recipes that get around this? [more inside]
posted by Wossname at 12:21 PM PST - 21 comments

Getting the necessary rights to turn a movie into a musical?

What's the best way to find out if a pre-existing work has already been optioned for an adaptation to a different medium? Specifically, if a film has been optioned for a musical. [more inside]
posted by Lutoslawski at 12:21 PM PST - 9 comments

Won't Travel for Beer

What beer available in Chicago most resembles New Glarus Brewing's Totally Naked? [more inside]
posted by Bunglegirl at 11:57 AM PST - 6 comments

He who controls The Spice, controls The Universe.

Halp! We have too many spices and not enough time. [more inside]
posted by ThaBombShelterSmith at 11:44 AM PST - 19 comments

How do we figure out a fair outcome for everyone when one co-worker has childcare issues and cannot attend 'mandatory' events at 5pm?

How do we figure out a fair outcome for everyone when one co-worker has childcare issues and cannot attend 'mandatory' events at 5pm? [more inside]
posted by It's a Parasox at 11:42 AM PST - 64 comments

How to recycle or dispose of a steel bike frame?

Does anyone know what the best way to dispose of a broken steel bike frame is? [more inside]
posted by hellslinger at 11:14 AM PST - 9 comments

How do I possibly restore a water damaged iPhone stuck in "I need a SIM card" hell?

How can I defeat the evil "There is no Sim card installed in the iPhone you are attempting to activate" message after water damage" message? [more inside]
posted by bengalsfan1 at 11:09 AM PST - 4 comments

Paying Old NYC Fines

How to find out about and pay for old tickets in NYC (subway and open container) from outside of the country? [more inside]
posted by asimplemouse at 11:08 AM PST - 1 comment

Scheduled C-section: should I push back? How hard?

After ~37wks of baking, our Little Spark is soon to emerge. Sonogram last week shows breech, size estimates via same sonogram say ~8# so far. Doc is now advising/arranging scheduled C-section. I'm not sure it's the right thing. Can you help me determine if I should push back & how hard? [more inside]
posted by batmonkey at 11:03 AM PST - 49 comments

Are litter mates a good idea?

Are litter mates a good idea? [more inside]
posted by lunachick at 11:02 AM PST - 13 comments

Goin' mobile

What makes a mobile site, well, mobile? [more inside]
posted by fijiwriter at 10:52 AM PST - 8 comments

Understanding the world by reading books

Suggest books that illuminate world-views and the way perception is flavored by ideas and sentiments! [more inside]
posted by mbrock at 10:43 AM PST - 24 comments

Help me learn to figure out dice probability for games

Help me teach myself enough about probability to properly balance the board game I want to design. [more inside]
posted by Caduceus at 10:41 AM PST - 3 comments

Help my hairs.

Haircolor conundrum: can I go back to brunette life after a (very short) fling as a blonde? [more inside]
posted by sucre at 10:35 AM PST - 13 comments

Lost article about New York's tolerance for cultural diversity

I'm looking for a specific article about New York City's amazing tolerance for diversity. [more inside]
posted by stuart_s at 10:32 AM PST - 4 comments

Why don't I blog?

Everybody's doing it (perhaps by many people who shouldn't?). It would be good for my reputation in a number of my fields to maintain a subject-specific blog (photography, coding, food, etc), but nothing ever occurs to me to be especially "bloggable". This might be due to the fact that I'm acutely aware of how many true experts there are on these topics, and I feel I have nothing original to contribute. [more inside]
posted by joshwa at 10:26 AM PST - 17 comments

Honestly, how did I get all of this booze? I don't know.

I'm drinking my way through my (overstuffed) liquor cabinet, and I turn to you, drunks on the internet, for advice on what how to restock it--with an emphasis on top shelf liquors for classic cocktails. [more inside]
posted by Admiral Haddock at 10:22 AM PST - 49 comments

Q: What is that? A: They call it [MOVIE TITLE]

I'm looking for movie (and other media) quotes that follow a similar model: Character 1 asks a question. Character 2 answers with the name of the movie. [more inside]
posted by 2bucksplus at 10:14 AM PST - 33 comments

Help me get awesome penmanship!

What are some good resources to help me get awesome penmanship? [more inside]
posted by moons in june at 9:46 AM PST - 12 comments

Bat house help, please.

We would like to build a bat house to control rampant and inexplicable mosquitoes. We would like your help, internet. [more inside]
posted by peachfuzz at 9:42 AM PST - 9 comments

Help me avoid the suburbs!

D.C.CommutingFilter: Moving to the city soon but stuck working in the 'burbs; is it possible for me to maintain my love for the urban lifestyle? [more inside]
posted by photo guy at 9:37 AM PST - 28 comments

what in the hell do I actually want?

Fizzled romance filter: Am I the shallowest person in America? [more inside]
posted by sureshot at 9:26 AM PST - 32 comments

A happy and stable alcoholic?

I'm an alcoholic. Help me feel comfortable with my alcohol intake. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:06 AM PST - 49 comments

Give me examples of books where characters use teh googles.

Character googles her paranormal boyfriend. Fake wikipedia article reading ensues. Is there a TVtropes article for this cliché, or, alternatively, what are some examples? [more inside]
posted by PhoBWanKenobi at 9:00 AM PST - 23 comments

Was Wernher von Braun asked "How does it feel to be aiming rockets at the moon rather than London?"?

I was told a possible apocryphal story by my father, that at a press conference about the Apollo missions a British reporter stood up and asked Wernher von Braun something like "How does it feel to be aiming rockets at the moon rather than London?", at which von Braun stormed out. Googling has failed me. Did this happen? If not, is there a likely source for it?
posted by Coobeastie at 8:57 AM PST - 8 comments

How do I move one chair from Ottawa to Montreal?

I have a large living room chair that I need to transport from Ottawa to my apartment in Montreal in the next week or so. "Moving" or "Furniture moving" is a mess in Google, and most of the Craigslist and Kijiji entries are focused on a full house/apartment moving service. Does anyone know what is the best and most economical way to do this? One option would be to rent a van here in Montreal and use it to bring the chair here. I would prefer an approach that wasn't so time-consuming on my part. Thoughts?
posted by mikel at 8:56 AM PST - 6 comments

If you were 22 and moving to El Paso, where would you want to live?

I'm looking for suggestions for good neighborhoods and/or apartment rentals near UTEP in El Paso, Texas. [more inside]
posted by victoriab at 8:56 AM PST - 3 comments

when do you put on the condom?

condom question... when do you put it on? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:55 AM PST - 11 comments

Where are the good flea markets in Boston?

Boston Filter: I went to Brooklyn Flea this weekend. It was awesome. Is there anything like that in the Boston area? [more inside]
posted by sutel at 8:55 AM PST - 9 comments

Establishing a task list/planner with a lot of redundancy

I'm returning to school and need help developing a system for remembering tasks and deadlines that involves a lot of redundancy. I am having trouble not just remembering said tasks and deadlines, but remembering to check any To-Do lists or planners I fill out. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:27 AM PST - 17 comments

You Can't Do That!

I'm looking for a vaguely-remembered quote to the effect of "I only believe in restrictions that are forbidden to all." The meaning was that man-made injunctions don't carry as much weight as universal ones. Sorry, I can't even recall the author! Maybe Spinoza?
posted by growli at 8:14 AM PST - 2 comments

Sightseeing in Hanover, NH

What to do in and around Hanover, NH? [more inside]
posted by tocts at 8:03 AM PST - 7 comments

What are some non-alcoholic martini ritual substitutes?

What are some good non-alcoholic substitutes for my evening martini? [more inside]
posted by nickmark at 7:52 AM PST - 20 comments

Best convertible car seat?

Best convertible car seat? [more inside]
posted by redyaky at 7:21 AM PST - 18 comments

Who should I ask to be my referee when I apply to university this year?

Who can I ask to be my referee when I apply to university this year? I have no appropriate professional relationships, I cannot ask a friend or family member, and I have been out of school for three years. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:14 AM PST - 11 comments

When "don't worry about it" means "I'll demand payment four months later."

My landlord said not to worry about paying for a sculpture I damaged, four months later wants to take payment out of my deposit - and wants me to determine how much I should pay even though she knows I don't know anything about antiques and have no money after she made me move out. How do I deal with this in a mature fashion? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:14 AM PST - 26 comments

Is this across a line?

Boyfriend hit me in anger after I hurt him while roughhousing. Am I reading too much into this? I hurt him first, so is it hypocritical of me to be frightened? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:11 AM PST - 101 comments

Help me teach my baby to turn over!

Any suggestions on how to teach my baby to turn over from front to back? I am hoping that a kinesthesiologist or baby specialist may have some input, because my 5 month old is flipping herself over onto her stomach but can't get back, and is becoming very frustrated. [more inside]
posted by miss tea at 7:05 AM PST - 12 comments

Can I make new close friendships as I get older?

As I get older, will it be harder to make close friends? [more inside]
posted by fso at 6:56 AM PST - 26 comments

It's a gas, gas, gas

Help me build the custom camping stove of my dreams (SWF regulalor - stove mating question inside) [more inside]
posted by bluefrog at 6:52 AM PST - 4 comments

Feasibility of a transparent, illegal trade?

Is it possible to set up a completely open, transparent system wherein a trusted seller could make illegal trades with a multitude of buyers, leaving the police completely aware but unable to do anything. (Completely hypothetical of course, but I am very interested) [more inside]
posted by insperatum at 6:30 AM PST - 14 comments

Dirty magnifier -- help please!

How do I clean a full page magnifier? [more inside]
posted by Librarygeek at 6:19 AM PST - 5 comments

So I've learned how to make chainmaille.... uh, now what?

So I've learned how to make chainmaille.... uh, now what? [more inside]
posted by gwenlister at 5:59 AM PST - 12 comments

This post took a week to write. Seriously.

How to be less flaky when it comes to communicating with friends? [more inside]
posted by Cat Pie Hurts at 5:44 AM PST - 16 comments

Movie quote haunts me

A quote from a movie is haunting me - help [more inside]
posted by A189Nut at 4:27 AM PST - 8 comments

Clicking and cracking shoulders during dumbbells: could this be a problem?

My body (specifically shoulders, collarbone, and breastbone) is making weird noises when I do certain exercises. Why, and should I be worried? [more inside]
posted by shamash at 2:51 AM PST - 5 comments

Best eBay auction timing?

What are the best days/times to have ebay auctions end? Which are the days/times to absolutely avoid?
posted by lord_yo at 2:28 AM PST - 10 comments

Help a clueless couple compile a mega list of kitchen essentials!

What do we absolutely need? [more inside]
posted by Vrai at 2:24 AM PST - 21 comments

What should I see at London Open House

I'm overwhelmed by the possibilities of Open House London, which sees hundreds of usually inaccessible buildings thrown open to the public. What are the can't-miss places that are worth queuing for? What are the little-known gems I might overlook? (Worth mentioning: I have a particular fondness for the exuberant, the quirky, and the eccentric.)
posted by yankeefog at 2:24 AM PST - 7 comments

23 y/o female's problems with relationships

is there something wrong with me? never had a real relationship, drinking to socialize, infatuations with people on the internet... [more inside]
posted by achtland at 1:37 AM PST - 12 comments

Large Printer for the Home

Let's say I'm willing to spend $500 for a printer...but my only incentive to do so (I have a normal printer now) would be that it allows me to print my own larger-format prints, on 11 x 17 paper (or even larger if that was possible). Does such a creature exist? If so, what would you recommend? [more inside]
posted by maxwelton at 1:21 AM PST - 12 comments

AAAaaaaaaaaaaaay ay aya y ay

Im looking for an mp3 of a good "grito mexicano" [more inside]
posted by freddymetz at 12:23 AM PST - 2 comments

August 8

How to find an inexpensive "Butler Lamp"?

I've been virtually stalking a particular lamp sold online at csn stores; I planned to decorate around this particular lamp because it had a shelf attached, didn't need hardwiring and they were ~$40 each.... but they're sold out now. Where to look next? [more inside]
posted by avidreader at 9:28 PM PST - 2 comments

Long before the clapper, push-buttons ruled the hallway.

Why did push-button light switches go out of fashion? [more inside]
posted by eschatfische at 9:26 PM PST - 22 comments

I just can't wait to start throwing rice

What web sites and/or twitter feeds and/or something else (??) should I be watching to get the earliest announcement of when Judge Walker will issue his ruling on whether or not to extend the stay on his ruling? [more inside]
posted by marsha56 at 9:16 PM PST - 3 comments

Help us get to Shanghai for cheap!

Boyfriend and I are flying out to Shanghai from New York City sometime late September or October. Kayak's cheapest flights are on: China Eastern Airlines, Air China, Delta, and on occasion, Continental. Reviews for all seem pretty bleak. :( It's a good 14-20 hour flight; please help: Which airline is the best of the worst? [more inside]
posted by pinksoftsoap at 9:00 PM PST - 24 comments

Why is food gross to me?

Sometimes food makes me feel sick. Sometimes I don't want to eat and so it feels like I'm just doing a chore. Is this normal? Or common? [more inside]
posted by ramenopres at 8:58 PM PST - 17 comments

I have a bento box! Now what?

I have a bento box! Now what? [more inside]
posted by malthas at 8:55 PM PST - 15 comments

You know geneaology, but for houses.

I'm suddenly fascinated with the history of the house I bought. Except I have no idea how to go about looking up the history of a house this old (1925, San Francisco, not one of the big, fancy neighborhoods, nothing notable ever happened on the street). Where do I start? [more inside]
posted by Gucky at 8:22 PM PST - 14 comments

I know nothing about turtles except they make me go awwwww!

Identify this adorable turtle! [more inside]
posted by alygator at 8:20 PM PST - 8 comments

You win, roaches

I just moved into an apartment which I now think had an existing roach problem. Should/can I break my lease now and recover my money, or should I try to fight the roaches? I'm in PA. [more inside]
posted by pilibeen at 8:13 PM PST - 12 comments

Am I autistic?

Seriously... am I autistic? [more inside]
posted by InterestedInKnowing at 8:03 PM PST - 19 comments

Frustration leads to anger, anger leads to shame, lather, rinse, repeat

I've lived in Japan for some time now, but I'm not very good at the language. When I encounter anything beyond the simple, and I don't understand what's going on, I feel frustrated, then angry, then ashamed, which undermines any confidence I have to speak the language, which makes it less likely that I'll do better the next time. What can I do to break this cycle? [more inside]
posted by MShades at 7:52 PM PST - 15 comments

Maybe I *do* need some "street sense"

[Jaded_Filter] Am I overreacting to street solicitors? Is this the sign of an anger issue? Or do I just need to learn how to ignore everyone who bothers me? [more inside]
posted by Franklin76 at 7:18 PM PST - 49 comments

Problem with the audio driver on a Lenovo T60P.

Problem with the audio driver on a Lenovo T60p. [more inside]
posted by Pontius Pilate at 6:55 PM PST - 2 comments

Please distill 10 seasons into the best lols possible.

What are the best episodes of Mystery Science Theater 3000? [more inside]
posted by mccarty.tim at 6:52 PM PST - 72 comments

Dealing With A Computer Crime Felony In A Corporate Environment?

I recently got a job as an IT support analyst through a third party IT consulting firm. The three months went well, and the client decided to hire me fulltime. There was no background check when I had the contractor position, and for the first two weeks when I was an actual employee there was no talk of an actual background check... [more inside]
posted by psiwave at 5:46 PM PST - 15 comments

Ou mangeon nous en Montreal?

Does anyone have suggestions for special, kid-friendly dining experiences in Montreal? (More inside) [more inside]
posted by Slap Factory at 5:44 PM PST - 9 comments

How do I contest a medical bill?

I went to the emergency room a few months ago for a back injury, and, to be honest, I don't feel like the medical services provided to me were adequate. I saw a doctor for about 45 seconds the entire time I was there. When I was leaving, they gave me information for "if my chest started hurting later," despite my protests that my back was the injured part, and the next day, I discovered the X-rays they had taken were of my chest, not my back. Now that I have the bill, can I contest it? [more inside]
posted by DeusExMegana at 5:34 PM PST - 13 comments

Treatment in NYC for sagging skin and puffy eyes

Where in NYC can I get cosmetic help with sagging skin and bags under the eyes? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:27 PM PST - 5 comments

Deviating from wedding registries--how gauche is it?

I'm attending a wedding next weekend, of a couple that has irritated me throughout the course of their tumultuous engagement. I've looked over their many registries, and have found nothing that I consider worthwhile or practical to give in my price range. What are my other alternatives? [more inside]
posted by litnerd at 5:25 PM PST - 31 comments

I turn the tap on and there's water there..... Yep.

I am woefully (and willfully I guess) ignorant. What's the best way to remedy this? [more inside]
posted by Small Pockets at 5:08 PM PST - 21 comments

Is my old itrip destined for the scrapheap (or freecycle)?

I've just got a shiny new iphone 4, but I'm having trouble making it work with my old itrip. [more inside]
posted by finding.perdita at 4:57 PM PST - 1 comment

Enneagrams?

So: enneagrams. If you've spent any time studying them, how did you put the knowledge to use? [more inside]
posted by roger ackroyd at 4:48 PM PST - 12 comments

Sick of iPod Touch deleting my notes

Why is my iPod Touch deleting text from my Notes? [more inside]
posted by ThePinkSuperhero at 4:48 PM PST - 6 comments

Activities for an exceptional child?

How to entertain/socialize a 5 year old with Down Syndrome? [more inside]
posted by julie_of_the_jungle at 4:45 PM PST - 7 comments

Chinese tattoo - will it be a problem in Tokyo & Hong Kong?

I have 2 chinese characters tattooed onto my left arm. I'm travelling to Tokyo and Hong Kong next year. It will be winter so probably a non-issue, but what would the reaction be if I were to show it? What about public onsen in Japan? Would it cause any problems?
posted by anonymous at 4:42 PM PST - 11 comments

Tampering with the logos of evil

What are the legal ramifications for my small business (US) if I redesign logos of huge war profiteering multinationals and put them on my own commercial products for comical effect? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:42 PM PST - 6 comments

Should I go to Milan

I have a chance to go to Milan in mid-October. My husband's ticket will be paid for, so we'll just be out-of-pocket for my ticket and lodging for a week. It's been an expensive year for us so far, and I'm reluctant to lay out money for this trip unless it's likely to be spectacular and relatively inexpensive. I cringe at the thought of paying for a rental car and staying at an expensive hotel. On the other hand, the thought of a hostel is not very enticing - unless there's a private room and bathroom. So Mefites - can you recommend spectacular things to do in Milan and places to stay for a frugal traveller? Would this trip be worth it?
posted by TorontoSandy at 4:15 PM PST - 7 comments

Yahoo push email on iphone4

I newly purchased an iPhone4 on Vodafone in the UK. Gmail email seems to work beautifully, in a "push" fashion. Yahoo email ( a non paid account on yahoo.com) just does not seem to do it in "push" fashion. Email is erratic. This is despite resetting "all settings" and re installing account. Any solutions guys? Does anyone know the yahoo IMAP settings, as I am told that solves the problem? Thanks
posted by gasrush at 4:08 PM PST - 3 comments

She's mine

Advice needed regarding a "don't ask out my ex-girlfriend" communication from an ex-boyfriend. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 3:37 PM PST - 55 comments

Help me get over my affair, please?

So I cheated on my husband, but before things went too far (i.e., beyond kissing), I confessed and ended the affair. My husband has forgiven me. My friends are sympathetic. All in all, I got off easy. The problem: I can't stop thinking about the other guy. How do I get over him? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 3:36 PM PST - 20 comments

Do background checks corroborate other background checks?

[Military Filter]: Do military background checks check information given for prior background checks? Specifically drug related. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 3:36 PM PST - 7 comments

Should I build a new desktop machine or should I build nothing more than Network-Attached Storage? Details inside...

Should I build a new desktop machine or should I build nothing more than Network-Attached Storage? Details inside... [more inside]
posted by decrescendo at 3:35 PM PST - 11 comments

Page-turners to smear with sunscreen and red wine

Bookfilter: Mrs. Inkoate and I are going on vacation and need appropriate reading material for the trip. We are looking for the literary equivalents of the Thomas Crowne Affair to read while we're away. [more inside]
posted by Inkoate at 3:33 PM PST - 5 comments

How to put a tree in my driveway?

Yardfilter: I want to plant a tree in my driveway. Help me give it a fighting chance. (Details inside.) [more inside]
posted by slab_lizard at 3:13 PM PST - 3 comments

What fun emails can we send my 85-year-old grandfather who is lonely, housebound and has never been on-line before?

My 85-year-old grandfather was just given a 3g ipad. What fun emails can we send him? [more inside]
posted by JoannaC at 3:05 PM PST - 16 comments

Autobahn appetite!

Calling all frequent Portland-Seattle drivers: where are your favorite places to pull off I-5 and eat? [more inside]
posted by sapere aude at 2:37 PM PST - 10 comments

Biology = Destiny

Can you recommend a book chapter or article that summarizes the biological and/or psychological perspectives on gender without devolving into straw-man attacks or interdepartmental backbiting? [more inside]
posted by arcticwoman at 2:25 PM PST - 20 comments

Why won't my laptop connect to the internet?

Why won't my laptop connect to the internet? [more inside]
posted by Kutsuwamushi at 2:01 PM PST - 8 comments

Temporary housing in Dublin

Looking for a place to live in Dublin for 3 months! [more inside]
posted by Grimble at 1:50 PM PST - 5 comments

Why is UAC so slow to launch?

Why does it take so long for Windows UAC to come up? [more inside]
posted by Pope Guilty at 1:19 PM PST - 9 comments

Singing just for you. Somewhere.

My mom would like to see Charles Aznavour in concert, and I'm having trouble tracking down tickets and events. I found only one, festival.caproig.cat, are there other? [more inside]
posted by monocultured at 1:12 PM PST - 7 comments

Reality is Reality...d'oh.

The reality of humanity and mortality. People write blogs about everything. Are there great introspective blogs from psychologists / psychiatrists and first-responder EMTs? This may end up a little depressing, so skip it if you're sensitive. [more inside]
posted by carlh at 12:54 PM PST - 19 comments

seeking lighting components

Designing some various lighting (wall-attached, hanging and stand-alone) At this early stage, we need to look at off-the-shelf components and assemblage, such as swivel/flex joints, switches, sockets...but especially SHADES; metal, resin, even paper. Where can one find, view and order parts? [more inside]
posted by ebesan at 12:14 PM PST - 1 comment

What if the DOW crashes and there's inflation at the same time?

If you were to follow Robert Prechter's advice that the DOW is headed for a precipitous drop to triple digits, how could you protect your capital from a possible hyperinflation? [more inside]
posted by fantasticninety at 12:04 PM PST - 28 comments

Write on MacHD from XP?

Is it possible to write to Macintosh HD from within a Windows XP boot camp partition? [more inside]
posted by Lorin at 11:42 AM PST - 4 comments

How do I best deal with this without affecting my credit?

I just received a statement from a medical facility stating I owe them a couple hundred bucks plus $100+ in interest. Date of service is supposedly 10/06. I am in California. This is the first bill I have received, and I have lived at this address for over 4 years. [more inside]
posted by 6:1 at 11:36 AM PST - 5 comments

When is green green?

Where can I find out which alternative energy sources are efficient, after taking into account the energy cost of manufacture and disposal? [more inside]
posted by devnull at 11:25 AM PST - 6 comments

Meltdown?

Is there any danger in leaving my laptop in the trunk of my car all day during a summer heat wave?
posted by The Straightener at 11:22 AM PST - 10 comments

Please tell me I'm wrong...

I hope I'm wrong, but I'm worried that the mattress and boxspring in our garage have become a home for spiders. [more inside]
posted by mireille at 11:12 AM PST - 14 comments

My macbook pro connects to the network, but says there's no internet. My roommate's PC has no problems. What's the deal?

My macbook pro connects to the network, but says there's no internet. My roommate's PC has no problems. What's the deal? [more inside]
posted by jander03 at 10:30 AM PST - 9 comments

It's another cat health question

It's another "What's going on with my cat?" question.. and it seems like a complicated one. Before I go into it, we have taken him to the vet a few times and are not against taking him more, but I'm looking for input from you guys. [more inside]
posted by wondermouse at 10:23 AM PST - 19 comments

Spaingeterianism

Vegetarian eating in Spain -- help me, Askme-Wan Kenobi [more inside]
posted by dontjumplarry at 10:16 AM PST - 15 comments

Watering Can For My Mother

My mother's birthday is coming up and I'd like to buy her a 'fancy', but usable watering can. Any suggestions?
posted by nam3d at 9:27 AM PST - 6 comments

Two people. An iPod Touch and iPhone. One Macbook Pro. Sync issues.

Two people. An iPod Touch and an iPhone. One Macbook Pro. How can I sync the Notes (as in...notes written in the Notes application) from the Touch to the Macbook Pro without confusing iTunes into syncing everything else to the wrong device? [more inside]
posted by nitsuj at 9:18 AM PST - 9 comments

Low Cost Vision Care in Austin?

I'm looking for low-cost vision care options in Austin, Tx. [more inside]
posted by MuChao at 9:09 AM PST - 6 comments

Help me calm down about a possible breast lump.

I might have a lump in my breast. I am freaking out. Help. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:44 AM PST - 34 comments

Colon cancer/surgery in elderly

Two weeks ago my 83 year old mother was diagnosed with colon cancer--surgery to remove the right side of her colon is scheduled for this Friday. If anyone here has gone through this type of surgery, what were your experiences during post op and recovery? What can our family do to make Mom's recovery easier? [more inside]
posted by I'm Brian and so's my wife! at 8:38 AM PST - 6 comments

Global Warming Naysayers Who Made Predictions That Came True (or did not)

Need examples of notable global warming skeptics whose predictions came true, or did not.
posted by Elsie at 8:17 AM PST - 8 comments

How to stamp a pattern when pattern stamp wont do

Need to 'stamp' an image onto another image multiple times in Photoshop (or another free image editing tool). [more inside]
posted by missmagenta at 7:56 AM PST - 4 comments

How can I accentuate B-cup breasts without showing skin?

How can I accentuate B-cup breasts without showing skin? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:46 AM PST - 25 comments

Where was I born, officially?

Where was I born, officially? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:46 AM PST - 26 comments

Why does my Hard drive spin for ages at startup?

XP Hard-Drive Filter: When I turn my computer on, after it being off overnight, it starts up fine but the hard disk light is on for several minutes. Start-up time is normal, and desktop loads and computer is usable, can click on icons and open folders/start programs but they take ages to load/open - hard drive stays on at this point. When I use FF it slows it waaaay down. What could be causing this and how can I stop it please? [more inside]
posted by marienbad at 7:44 AM PST - 15 comments

Bills, bills, bills.

My roommate is overcharging me on utilities, and I feel a bit misled. How can I address this with her? [more inside]
posted by blackcatcuriouser at 7:21 AM PST - 29 comments

Help Me Stitch!

I suck at sewing. I'd like to be able to mend my own clothes, but this isn't enough of an issue for me to buy / support a sewing machine. How can I get better? [more inside]
posted by l33tpolicywonk at 7:15 AM PST - 10 comments

Buying my first motorcycle

I am looking to possibly buy my first motorcycle for street riding and could use some mefite input. I have multiple years of experience on dirtbikes so was thinking of starting with a dual sport 650. Details inside. [more inside]
posted by masters2010 at 6:48 AM PST - 9 comments

can you name this stats theorem?

There is an urban legend in the baseball statistics community I would like to find broader perspective on. Ideally a statistics journal cite would be great if you know of one. It has to do with sample size and point estimation. [more inside]
posted by bukvich at 5:58 AM PST - 7 comments

looking for Lionel Richie "Hello" gay(?) spin off

looking for Lionel Richie "Hello" gay(?) spin off? last known working link via this mefi comment dont know it, never seen it, gota have it
posted by yosh at 3:19 AM PST - 3 comments

An SSD falls from the Apple tree.

The new iMacs: What are the risks of purchasing an iMac with a solid state drive? [more inside]
posted by Gordion Knott at 3:06 AM PST - 10 comments

... And then we'd blow their minds!

What kinds of pranks and/or practical jokes could a time traveller pull on people from the past without changing history? [more inside]
posted by amyms at 2:14 AM PST - 22 comments

Adult chickenpox

Tell me your experiences with adult chickenpox. I'm 26 years old and was diagnosed yesterday. Today the spots have spread from my scalp, chest and back to my face in a real bad way, and this thread has me freaking out a bit. [more inside]
posted by moorooka at 12:01 AM PST - 31 comments

August 7

Ex-gf of last month is getting married. Why has this upset me?

I just found out the exgf - of 3-4 weeks - is engaged. Help me sort out of my feelings and make me realize this has nothing to do with me? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 11:25 PM PST - 33 comments

Where to go hiking in Middle Tennessee?

Hiking and camping near Nashville, or middle Tennessee area. [more inside]
posted by circle_b at 10:28 PM PST - 9 comments

Help me avoid turning into a coffee-dependent zombie!

How much coffee/caffeine can you drink and not develop a tolerance? [more inside]
posted by cosmic.osmo at 9:51 PM PST - 23 comments

What should I do about the man who doesn't love my religious beliefs?

Everything seems to be fine. Except the religion bit, even though we're the same religion (Jewish of course). He went to Orthodox religious schools his entire life and promptly rejected it as soon as he could. We were just friends before he left and was out of town for a couple of years. While he was gone, I of course, became religious. We've been hanging out since he returned, and now we're rather in love with each other. But he doesn't want to be religious or have a religious home. He doesn't seem interested in compromising at all. I have things that I would compromise on, and have told him so, but again he doesn't seem interested. My read of the situation is that he's actually not interested and using this as an excuse. Any thoughts?
posted by hedgehoagie at 9:25 PM PST - 44 comments

Why so much anxiety about dream job abroad?

Dream job abroad- should be an easy decision; why is it inducing such anxiety? [more inside]
posted by bearette at 9:07 PM PST - 10 comments

Shadowrun Story Ideas

Once saw a specific bank of sample shadowrun adventures online, trying to find it again... [more inside]
posted by brownbat at 8:58 PM PST - 3 comments

Go To Hell, Moths!

What would YOU want to say to a clothes moth? (to keep those dang clothes moths away from my wool and my fur.) [more inside]
posted by custard heart at 8:40 PM PST - 29 comments

What's the name of this type of antiquarian book?

What's the name for this type of old book? [more inside]
posted by HopperFan at 7:54 PM PST - 5 comments

THEY KILLED WAVE!

They killed Google Wave! I need a replacement! [more inside]
posted by thilmony at 7:36 PM PST - 16 comments

Examples of vindicated "crazy" scientists?

Famous scientists and doctors who were once ridiculed for their ideas but, later vindicated? [more inside]
posted by learninguntilidie at 6:57 PM PST - 37 comments

What baby mammals are in my lawn?

What baby mammals did my rat terrier find? [more inside]
posted by xorry at 6:34 PM PST - 15 comments

Is there an iOS app that will let me choose a colour and tell me the artsy-fartsy names for it?

Is there an iOS app that will let me choose a shade/hue/colour and then tell me the artsy-fartsy names for it, or those that are near fits? There are plenty of tools for finding hex values, but I want the pretty names like apple green, persimmon, feldgrau etc.
posted by Deor at 6:23 PM PST - 6 comments

just please don't tell me to calm down

Do I have to choose between thin+unhappy and fat+unhappy? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:59 PM PST - 45 comments

Michigan to Cumberland Falls, KY

Any tips for driving from Michigan to Somerset Kentucky and then taking in Cumberland Falls? [more inside]
posted by tangram1 at 5:29 PM PST - 3 comments

Should you talk to police after a car accident?

Should you talk to police after a car accident? [more inside]
posted by lunchbox at 5:27 PM PST - 24 comments

Music to Live For

Mixtape filter: I have a friend and her brother is in the hospital with a gunshot wound to the gut. He's trying hard not to survive although he's very young. My friend wants to make a mixtape for him... [more inside]
posted by madred at 5:22 PM PST - 17 comments

help buying a hearing aid for my mother

how to get a good deal hearing aids for my mother [more inside]
posted by alcahofa at 5:03 PM PST - 6 comments

How to do woodworking when you live in an apartment?

Is there anywhere you can rent space to do woodworking in Los Angeles? [more inside]
posted by thehandsomecamel at 4:46 PM PST - 7 comments

# # I tried every diet in the book. I tried some that weren’t in the book. I tried eating the book. It tasted better than most of the diets.

What books do you recommend for really learning about diet, nutrition and weight loss? [more inside]
posted by TravellingCari at 4:15 PM PST - 26 comments

Two homes and some distance?

My partner and I are ontemplating separation and I am thinking of moving several towns over. I have read stories of parents separating and the benefits of the two homes being close as in a few blocks. But what should I know about making it work for myself and my kid when the homes are further apart? I would like to hear positive advice from parents and kids who have negotiated two homes with a little distance between them . Were their plusses to this distance to balance out the minuses? How did you make it work? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:07 PM PST - 14 comments

I think I can walk faster than this thing can go. WTF anxiety?

I am afraid to ride my scooter. How can I get over this? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:07 PM PST - 27 comments

Looking for a mic to use when making iMovie videos

I am looking for a good quality, but not too expensive, external mic to use when recording videos using iMovie. [more inside]
posted by twiggy32 at 4:05 PM PST - 7 comments

Going to Chicago next Sunday - car some days; what to do?

Headed to Chicago the 15th. Been to Chicago before (love it!) First time for the fiance. Details inside! [more inside]
posted by filmgeek at 3:58 PM PST - 16 comments

Help me find this mystery bar!

ASAP Filter: Help me find this bar in Queens, New York: beautiful backyard area with a willow tree, photo booth inside, sort of out of the way. Maybe near Long Island City? [more inside]
posted by Viola at 3:41 PM PST - 5 comments

Plant identification: eat it, nurture it, or kill it with fire?

Please help me identify the plants - flowers, weeds, veggies, herbs - in the garden of the house we just bought. There are several plants that I don't recognize, so I'd really appreciate any clues you might have! [more inside]
posted by misskaz at 3:24 PM PST - 18 comments

Resources for learning Hebrew, French, Lithuanian, Russian?

I'm at different levels in three different languages I'm learning (French, Hebrew, Russian/Lithuanian). How to proceed in each? [more inside]
posted by lhude sing cuccu at 2:57 PM PST - 11 comments

Yo soy el gringo nuevo in ciudad de Chicago.

Online Spanish courses? [more inside]
posted by cmoj at 2:22 PM PST - 10 comments

Required course on ethics for politicians?

I would like all new elected and appointed officials -- from Congress all the way on down to appointed officials at the municipal level -- to be required to take a minimum 20 hour course on ethics and civic responsibility. How would I go about getting Congress to pass this as a new law? [more inside]
posted by pallen123 at 1:54 PM PST - 27 comments

What do people spend money on, in the real world?

I'm living and working in the "real world" for the first time, namely Manhattan. Help me figure out my budget, and thus how much I should spend on rent. [more inside]
posted by Jacen Solo at 1:52 PM PST - 24 comments

How do I keep things clean?

I am looking for Cleaning Tips for the Lazy Man. [more inside]
posted by griphus at 1:13 PM PST - 33 comments

Rise and shine, feh.

How do I get hungry for breakfast? [more inside]
posted by zadcat at 12:56 PM PST - 30 comments

Will a nearly-expired passport give me trouble traveling in Japan and Singapore?

I'm traveling to Japan and Singapore soon, returning to the US on October 1, 2010. My passport expires April 11, 2011. Singapore's entry requirements state that the passport must be valid for at least six more months. Do I need to renew before I go? [more inside]
posted by Maximian at 12:55 PM PST - 14 comments

To buy or to rent? Why settle for less?

Yet another rent-versus-buy housing question, but I'd appreciate the hive mind taking the time to read the tl;dr details inside, as I'm faced with this imminent choice and am seriously confused and conflicted. [more inside]
posted by Oriole Adams at 12:49 PM PST - 22 comments

christmas in europe

europe, winter, december -- two students looking for recs for somewhere to spend christmas eve (and several days before that). [more inside]
posted by swimmingly at 12:39 PM PST - 5 comments

Why am I so stinky and why am I losing so much hair?

BO in crotch area, plus hair falling out – what’s going on? TMI after the fold. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 12:27 PM PST - 6 comments

Bop til ya drop?

Calling all natural scientists/nature experts. Is life like an arc? Or an arrow? Or something else? Looking for examples from nature to help me ponder the shape of life-and-death. [more inside]
posted by Paris Elk at 12:15 PM PST - 17 comments

Should I sell out of a private company I own shares in?

Should I sell out of a private company I own shares in? [more inside]
posted by b_thinky at 11:46 AM PST - 8 comments

Anybody know who is "Icam" of "Venice"?

Last week, Open Culture posted a link to a breathtaking little video of Venice posted on Vimeo. The only thing Vimeo reveals about its video artist is the name Icam from France and that they have 38 other videos posted. I would really like to know more about this elusive figure who captured the colorful, yet melancholy, beauty of Venice so perfectly! Anybody know anything further about the video artist Icam?
posted by Misciel at 11:43 AM PST - 2 comments

Don't Buy Me Love,Pay My Rent

How can I politely but effectively ask my significant other for financial help? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 11:25 AM PST - 50 comments

Is borrowing money in a relationship this way a no-no?

Is borrowing money early in a relationship out of line? How do I set boundaries and determine if I am definitely being taken advantage of? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 11:25 AM PST - 12 comments

Help Me Get Naked (Fast)

I'm a burlesque performer with an upcoming act where I hope to introduce a bit of quick change magic. Basically I want to come out in mens clothing, go under a hoop with some covering fabric, and when the hoop is removed I'm naked. Is this feasible? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 11:24 AM PST - 11 comments

Short fiction magazines

What are the best sources of new short stories? [more inside]
posted by enn at 10:57 AM PST - 11 comments

Distinguishing Contrived Numbers

A few years ago, I read that there is a mathematical method for discovering whether numerical data is contrived or random. There are interesting real-world uses for this, e.g. the IRS was considering it to flag returns where the amounts (e.g. listed deductions such as auto mileage) seemed contrived. I'm not explaining it very well (if I could explain it better, I'd have been able to Google it!), but I'm wondering if anyone can pin this down for me.
posted by Quisp Lover at 10:10 AM PST - 29 comments

Seattle bar recommendation

Can anyone recommend a bar in Seattle that has the game Big Buck Hunter? [more inside]
posted by Ideal Impulse at 8:21 AM PST - 10 comments

How can I give myself a do-over on my cruddy childhood?

Can anyone recommend a self-help method for starting one's (emotional) life over again after coming to terms with childhood trauma? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:29 AM PST - 20 comments

Where to meet ladies who like other ladies in the Windy City

GetMeTheHellOutOfTheHouseFilter: I need to get out badly, I need a temporary escape from the insanity I'm in right now. My fantasy? To go somewhere and be straight up hit on by a lady (who likes other ladies (who are butch-ish (as in I will not be seen in pink ever, but can't fix my own car))). And this needs to happen in Chicago. Please help!!! [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:29 AM PST - 10 comments

Tajiks say, "Are you Iranian?". Iranians say, "Are you Tajik?"

How can I change my accent in a second language? [more inside]
posted by Gordafarin at 7:10 AM PST - 8 comments

What do I do with all this salsa?

My friend (who's known as the Magic Salsa Fairy) converted a bunch of my homegrown tomatoes into a prodigious quantity of excellent hot salsa. There's more than a quart of it. I've got the whole tortilla chips/nachos/quesadillas axis covered, but what else can I do with it? You can assume that I'm a skillful indoor cook and my husband has a good gas grill and knows how to use it. Bonus points for healthy meal ideas. We are omnivores, but try to limit the carbs (b/c my husband is Type II diabetic).
posted by DrGail at 7:08 AM PST - 21 comments

For the Hardcore SpagBolologist

FoodScienceFilter? Can anyone tell me a bit more about what's going on with the proteins in traditional Bolognese sauce? [more inside]
posted by Diablevert at 6:47 AM PST - 10 comments

Help me build a website

MrsMoonPie wants to gay marry you, too! But, she needs a website, first. [more inside]
posted by eviltiff at 6:14 AM PST - 17 comments

Why am I looker thinner but getting heavier?

Why am I looking thinner but getting heavier? [more inside]
posted by Spamfactor at 4:46 AM PST - 16 comments

How do I learn French - all over again?

How does a once confident French speaker re-learn the language after six years of not using it? [more inside]
posted by schmoo at 4:30 AM PST - 11 comments

Is it possible to move to Sweden without working/going to school?

Is it possible to move to Sweden without working/going to school? [more inside]
posted by doomtop at 4:08 AM PST - 20 comments

Is there a kind of couples therapy you can do just the two of you?

I suspect I may not love my wife any more. But I also suspect that I (we?) may just be bored after four years. I'm relatively sure that my recent near unemployment and her recent malaise are contributing factors. What do I (we) do? [more inside]
posted by kaogahiroi at 4:04 AM PST - 32 comments

Help me with a move to Galway, Ireland!

I've just been shortlisted for an academic position at the National University of Ireland, Galway campus, but I'm currently living in Australia! Help me with the logistics of starting to consider this move, how we might do it and what Ireland (and NUI Galway, Galway the town) is actually like! [more inside]
posted by ranglin at 1:25 AM PST - 12 comments

Am I going blind?

Am I going blind? [more inside]
posted by coldblackice at 1:07 AM PST - 15 comments

How to get baby not to poop in bath

Baby pooping in the bath [more inside]
posted by Marzipan at 12:37 AM PST - 10 comments

For a smile, they can share the night. It goes on and on and on and on and on and on and on and on and on.

I like listening to different versions of the same song back to back to back to back to back. What songs have been covered many many times? [more inside]
posted by oreofuchi at 12:15 AM PST - 62 comments

What do you know about the simulator ride at CN Tower during the early 1990s?

During a weekend trip to Toronto in the early 1990s, I went with a group to the CN Tower. Most of the group went up to the observation deck, while a few of us felt nervous and did the Space Race simulator ride. [more inside]
posted by germdisco at 12:03 AM PST - 7 comments

August 6

Help produce our soundtrack!

Looking for pop/rock suggestions for our destination wedding video [more inside]
posted by gushn at 10:28 PM PST - 3 comments

Need a scooter, have some questions.

Looking for a scooter to save on gas, maintenance, and insurance - don't know anything about them. What do I need to know? [more inside]
posted by MeatyBean at 9:53 PM PST - 14 comments

Calling all guitar pedal geeks!

I play the recorder, using a basic recorder -- mic -- pedals -- amp setup. Pedal 1 provides delay; pedal 2 is the tricky part. There's a specific processing effect I'm looking for, which is this: 1) Clip the input signal above a defined decibel limit (not frequency limit); 2) Feed to output ONLY the signal above this limit. [more inside]
posted by YamwotIam at 9:10 PM PST - 8 comments

When it's Rosh Hashana Time in Dixieland

Help me identify (and find a recording of?) an old Jewish comedy song: "When it's Rosh Hashana time in Dixieland..." thereby blowing my dad's mind in time for High Holidays. [more inside]
posted by escabeche at 8:35 PM PST - 18 comments

Fantasizing about other men - help!

How can I stop being hypersexual, get my therapist to see that it's threatening my marriage, and start focusing on my husband again? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:12 PM PST - 35 comments

How can I tell my husband I don't love him without totally crushing him?

How can I tell my husband I don't love him without totally crushing him? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:12 PM PST - 92 comments

Dropped calls be damned. I want an iPhone.

Can I walk into an Apple Store and get an iPhone yet? [more inside]
posted by fishmasta at 7:58 PM PST - 11 comments

What TV show or movie is this quote from?

I am racking my brain over this one. Both Google and IMDB are failing me. In what movie or TV show does a character say the following quote (might not be the exact words): "Can you speak a little louder, only this time into my LAPEL?" See, the character is wearing a wire, and he's not very bright. Help me figure this one out!
posted by drinkcoffee at 7:40 PM PST - 24 comments

Potty Training Filter

Parentfilter: How do you handle very specific potty training regression issue with a 2.5 year old girl? [more inside]
posted by griffey at 7:21 PM PST - 6 comments

Private student loan hell.

Is there any way out of this hole? Private student loan hell. [more inside]
posted by Raze2k at 7:10 PM PST - 17 comments

Advice about promotional postcards?

Any advice on designing/ordering promotional postcards? [more inside]
posted by roxie110 at 5:51 PM PST - 9 comments

I'm developing repetitive strain issues from clicking my mouse. I'm looking for recommendations on ergonomic mice that might help.

I'm developing repetitive strain issues from clicking my mouse. I'm looking for recommendations on ergonomic mice that might help. [more inside]
posted by scrambles at 4:50 PM PST - 37 comments

Help Me Automatically Publish a Nicely Formatted List of My Media

I have a large collection of digital music, movies, and TV shows that I am adding to on a regular basis. I would like to come up with a way to create a nicely formatted list of all of this media on a scheduled basis and publish this for others to view. Please Help! [more inside]
posted by drgonzo2k2 at 4:36 PM PST - 1 comment

Creating Heirlooms for Common People

I want to record stories of people who might not otherwise get to tell their stories, or who don't have anyone who will preserve their heritage. I need any advice you can give me, including equipment, logistics and legal issues. [more inside]
posted by Galen at 3:31 PM PST - 11 comments

3-2-1 Contact Incidental Music (Antarctica)

During the 3-2-1 Contact episodes about Antarctica, there was some incidental music used. What is that incidental music? [more inside]
posted by oonh at 3:11 PM PST - 1 comment

Can I set up different domains that inter-link without being penalized?

Will setting up multiple sites and pages that inter-link be penalized by Google? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 3:10 PM PST - 5 comments

Strawberry emergency!

Emergency cooking help! I am cooking a vegan strawberry cake for a birthday party Sunday and my recipe calls for strawberry extract. I ordered some pure natural strawberry extract online and had it expedited but unfortunately the store messed up and it wont get here in time for the party. [more inside]
posted by long haired child at 3:05 PM PST - 13 comments

Are there bugs on the ISS?

Are there insects on the space station? (Not counting any being used in experiments) [more inside]
posted by DMan at 2:59 PM PST - 5 comments

Fast, asian rap?

Fast, asian rap? [more inside]
posted by wooh at 2:41 PM PST - 12 comments

30th birthday. Married couple, no close friends. Want to hit the town.

Mr. DeludingMyself is turning 30 in September, and isn't entirely pleased with the idea. I know I can't stop him from being upset about the big 3-0, but I want to come up with something to make the day itself awesome. [more inside]
posted by deludingmyself at 2:36 PM PST - 22 comments

Books for adults with learning difficulties.

Interesting, intelligent, but easy-to-read and understand books for an adult with stroke-related brain damage? [more inside]
posted by cilantro at 2:23 PM PST - 17 comments

Looking for books about Insects/Spiders

Can you please recommend good books (fiction or nonfiction) or websites about insects and/or spiders..? Not so much identification books, but ones about how they live, interact, etc.
posted by drezdn at 2:00 PM PST - 15 comments

Can the unemployed take a vacation and not lose their benefits?

Asking for a recently laid-off friend - If you're receiving unemployment insurance checks, can you take a vacation? [more inside]
posted by Long Way To Go at 1:58 PM PST - 23 comments

DIY Mason Jar Mugs

So, I've been saving all the nice mason jars that Classico pasta sauce comes in for sometime and decided I could do with a nice set of mugs. But I'm unsure of how to best attach handles. [more inside]
posted by gzimmer at 1:55 PM PST - 14 comments

No clever pun as costume, I need freakin' scary!

Halloween filter: Someone else started it! But yeah, please help me, too. I need a scary costume. [more inside]
posted by Eicats at 1:26 PM PST - 18 comments

Brown discharge

Female health filter: have had brown, stringy discharge for 3 days mid-cycle. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 1:16 PM PST - 11 comments

Will bladder pain make my labour more difficult?

I'm 33 weeks pregnant and my interstitial cystitis (painful bladder) flared up about 3 weeks ago. I don't expect it to subside until the pregnancy's over. I can feel the pain intensify during my Braxton Hicks contractions. Does this mean that my bladder will likely hurt a lot more when I'm in labour? Can any ladies who have gone through labour and have an IC diagnosis comment on this? [more inside]
posted by kitcat at 1:01 PM PST - 4 comments

F*ck Yeah?

F*ck Yeah! or Hell Yeah? or I don't know if Yeah belongs there. Who is this band? [more inside]
posted by studentbaker at 1:00 PM PST - 6 comments

i scream in my mind all day

i feel like there are two of me and i am constantly fighting myself it is exhausting (big ol' long crazy post inside) [more inside]
posted by inmyhead at 12:58 PM PST - 25 comments

This is what Ask Mefi is for, right?

Looking for a very simple flash game. [more inside]
posted by kidsleepy at 12:42 PM PST - 7 comments

OTC for nausea

Sitting here at work and feeling really nauseated for some reason. Already tried Tums, didn't work. I'm going to run to the store and get something to take care of it so I can finally eat a late lunch. What's the best OTC for nausea? [more inside]
posted by windbox at 12:23 PM PST - 24 comments

Password protect a Wordpress site

I'm creating a wedding website using Wordpress. I'd like to have the whole thing behind a password. [more inside]
posted by jdl at 12:20 PM PST - 5 comments

Producers just get paid A LOT right?

How does music production/songwriting work? For pop? For rap? [more inside]
posted by papayaninja at 12:05 PM PST - 11 comments

Safe to use 3rd party power block with laptop?

Is a Kensington power adapter safe to use on a Vaio laptop? [more inside]
posted by Kevin S at 11:59 AM PST - 3 comments

Help, I'm alone and I have nothing to do this weekend in Seattle

Help, I'm alone and I have nothing to do this weekend in Seattle. Low- or zero-cost ideas, suitable to do alone. Prefer low or no crowds. Bonus points for geeky and nerdy. Assume I have already done the typically touristy things in the city. [more inside]
posted by Cool Papa Bell at 11:55 AM PST - 22 comments

MayDay! Historical floundering!

Mad Men historical accuracy filter: Would public schools really have had a maypole dance in 1963? [more inside]
posted by dlugoczaj at 11:40 AM PST - 24 comments

Text message without a phone?

How do I send a text message from a computer? This is maybe easy, maybe tricky. [more inside]
posted by mai at 11:30 AM PST - 21 comments

I'm already excited about soup dumplings

I'm studying abroad in Beijing in a month! What do I need to bring, and what do I need to know? (I've never even left the US before!) [more inside]
posted by showbiz_liz at 11:23 AM PST - 30 comments

Advice on DLP projectors

What is the best type of DLP projector to get for home movie watching? [more inside]
posted by a womble is an active kind of sloth at 11:18 AM PST - 4 comments

San Francisco physical therapist?

Good physical therapist in San Francisco - especially for frozen shoulder? [more inside]
posted by kristi at 11:10 AM PST - 4 comments

GSA Contract...Help!

My boss has asked me to work on getting our company a contract with the U.S. government's General Services Administration (GSA). I have been doing some research and reading everything I can about it, but I think this may be too big of a job for just me. Does anyone have any experience with working on a contract like this or know of any good resources for help? Anything that any of you can offer would be great. Thanks!
posted by healthykindofsick at 10:56 AM PST - 9 comments

Why can't I ride the train to exit 18?

Why are highway exits numbered but rail / subway stops aren't?
posted by smackfu at 10:47 AM PST - 25 comments

Embed same image many times in Illustrator?

Is there a way to embed the same jpg image many times in a single PDF in Illustrator CS5? [more inside]
posted by Tom-B at 10:30 AM PST - 9 comments

Not broke, just disorganized with a disorganized income.

I have trouble remembering to pay bills/bring stamps/find envelopes in a timely manner. But I don't like having my account auto-drafted. Is there anything do-it-yourself style that will send me an e-mail and I can click a button to approve a transaction to pay an amount specified by me to the company that needs paying (or something like that)? [more inside]
posted by Ys at 10:24 AM PST - 15 comments

Class up my home bar please

I'm interested in making my home bar look more uniform by using the same bottles. I fell in love with the 375 mL bottles used by House Spirits for their Limited Release line (images here and here). Where can I buy similar glass bottles (and accompanying corks)? Online or b&m sources are both ok; for the record I live in the Twin Cities.
posted by mlo at 10:23 AM PST - 8 comments

My $170 video card is a fake, and the company won't take responsibility.

I've discovered a fraudulent computer part that I've been using in my system for nearly two years. Company refuses to service it, citing expired warranty. What recourse do I have? [more inside]
posted by polymodus at 10:22 AM PST - 10 comments

Ideas for attaching a wrist-strap to my HTC EVO?

Ideas for attaching a wrist-strap to my HTC EVO? [more inside]
posted by callmejay at 10:17 AM PST - 4 comments

So, I'm paranoid about starving, shoot me. Ok don't.

I'd like to buy enough seeds to grow enough food to survive for 2 years, for 6 people. And then store it. [more inside]
posted by sully75 at 10:03 AM PST - 20 comments

If you sue and win a reluctant payer, will you ever see any money?

LawFilter: Recently in my city, a teacher was awarded thousands in a defamation lawsuit. I am wondering, in cases like this, where someone is justifiably awarded damages - What are their chances of getting the money? [more inside]
posted by Sully at 10:02 AM PST - 9 comments

No lingerie + animal ears a la Mean Girls

Help me wow my friends with an out there Halloween costume! [more inside]
posted by gumtree at 9:56 AM PST - 22 comments

Ideas for getting rid of my old lease?

I moved to a new city - now I need ideas for getting out of my old lease. [more inside]
posted by Tehhund at 9:45 AM PST - 5 comments

Working at the same firm with your spouse!

Ms. Fuzzy Dog and I are happily married, now Ms. Fuzzy Dog is on the short list for a position at the firm I work for. If she is hired, what are some best practices for not letting work dominate our life? More details after the break. [more inside]
posted by Fuzzy Dog at 9:31 AM PST - 8 comments

60's women's fashion help needed

Stylin' in the swinging 60's [more inside]
posted by I_Love_Bananas at 9:18 AM PST - 10 comments

Where can we live to commute to DC and Baltimore?

Where could we live in the DC area with 1 commuting to Baltimore and the other (with toddler in tow to daycare) to Foggy Bottom? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:07 AM PST - 25 comments

How can I keep myself from being taken advantage of during a job transition?

How can I keep myself from being taken advantage of during a job transition? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:04 AM PST - 4 comments

Writer wiki link

I recently saw a reference to a wiki dedicated solely to obscure writers and published authors. I'm unable to relocate the reference or find the URL, despite having searched for hours. Is anyone familiar with this wiki?
posted by Lucy2Times at 9:03 AM PST - 5 comments

Guess who's coming to dharma?

What's a dignified way to portray Buddha in my house? [more inside]
posted by the matching mole at 9:02 AM PST - 23 comments

How to automate tracking changes to legislation and U.S. Code?

Jobhack/automation filter: Please help me track legislation and its proposed changes to the U.S. Code. [more inside]
posted by jalexc at 8:49 AM PST - 3 comments

Cute, office-y/date/go out shoes for narrow, high-arched feet?

Where can I find cute, office-y/date/go out shoes for narrow, high-arched feet? [more inside]
posted by ShadePlant at 8:30 AM PST - 6 comments

Need a college laptop!

Computer Buying: It's time to get my laptop for college! [more inside]
posted by pyrom at 8:25 AM PST - 26 comments

What's that bug?

What's that bug? Can you help us identify this spider? Found in a hallway in southern California. [more inside]
posted by Barmecide at 8:22 AM PST - 6 comments

What are the pitfalls of moving in with your significant other?

My girlfriend and I are planning on moving in together later this year. I am 30-years old and have never lived with a significant other. I have lived with roommates in the past and for the past three years have lived alone. My question is: what sort of problems should I be aware of when moving in with a signfiicant other? [more inside]
posted by Falconetti at 7:56 AM PST - 40 comments

Letting the bard babysit?

Have you used child care at the Utah Shakespearean Festival? Would you feel comfortable dropping your 2.5 year old there for an 8 o'clock show? [more inside]
posted by a22lamia at 7:53 AM PST - 7 comments

iPhone+Android household: how well do these phones interact?

What can two iPhones do together that an iPhone and an Android cannot do? [more inside]
posted by Piscean at 7:52 AM PST - 13 comments

Upgrading to Pro Flickr account

Problems upgrading to Pro in Flickr because of Yahoo [more inside]
posted by ninebelow at 7:40 AM PST - 5 comments

How do I help a Dad find his Daughter?

I came across an ad on Craigslist that really grabbed my attention. It was from a dad with very little computer knowledge, hoping to set up a website so his daughter would one day Google herself and know about her real dad. He hasn't been with her since she was 2 (2001). Something about it, probably my own personal experiences, really made me want to help. I set up a Blogger account for him so he can post pictures and letters to her easily (he updates the site from the local library). Are there any other things I should try? [more inside]
posted by halseyaa at 7:18 AM PST - 25 comments

Am I brewing trouble?

Can I start a private club to function like a CSA, but for homebrewed beer? [more inside]
posted by overeducated_alligator at 7:09 AM PST - 14 comments

Fort Greene walking tour

A day in Fort Greene, Brooklyn: where to go, what to see? [more inside]
posted by greta simone at 6:58 AM PST - 14 comments

Maybe I can fashion something out of coconuts?

What are the best wi-fi equipped places in Myrtle Beach for sitting down with a laptop and working for 8 hours? [more inside]
posted by subclub at 6:53 AM PST - 1 comment

Confusing playing cards

Can you explain a deck of cards that have H, V, and B instead of King, Queen, and Jack? [more inside]
posted by ukdanae at 6:40 AM PST - 11 comments

Sending a vehicle across Australia!

Transporting-Cars-Filter: My brother is working on the mines in Western Australia and would like to get his jeep or scooter transported from Gold Coast to Perth / Karratha. Any idea how to do this as cheaply as possible? Brother has heard that rail freight is a less expensive option. [more inside]
posted by mjao at 5:44 AM PST - 3 comments

Is there a tool to trawl a website and generate a frequency count for specific words I'm interested in?

Is there a tool to trawl a website and generate a frequency count for specific words I'm interested in? [more inside]
posted by 6am at 5:43 AM PST - 9 comments

If all my other plans fail, I'm opening a Tako Truck

Where can I get some awesome takoyaki in the DC area? [more inside]
posted by azarbayejani at 5:25 AM PST - 7 comments

City hall wedding gift?

Gift for city hall wedding? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:26 AM PST - 9 comments

Why affectionate, then evasive?

Why is my friend warm and affectionate in person, but very evasive when it comes to keeping in touch? How do I get over this? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:26 AM PST - 27 comments

How do I fix iPhone backup/sync problem?

How can I get my iPhone to backup or update or sync? iTunes gets stuck on "Backing up" for a very long time (hours...). [more inside]
posted by and1 at 1:44 AM PST - 13 comments

raised like a girl

I am a hetrosexual man who was rasied an only child by a strong independant mother. I can't help but love her for the effort, but I was rasied in many ways like a girl. I feel deeply betrayed. I can't seem to shake a sense of self-loathing.
posted by dabcad at 1:25 AM PST - 29 comments

Half hour at the airport

I am picking the girlfriend up from the airport, we haven't seen eachother in about a month. We are going to hang out for a little while, because a good friend is flying in a half hour later - and we're her ride. What is something nice to do with her at Seatac before our friend lands? [more inside]
posted by Jsn7821 at 12:20 AM PST - 12 comments

August 5

Checking availability of titles on eBooks

I'm starting to consider getting an e-reader, mainly because the books I'm really keen on are unavailable in my local library system and are hardly available in Australian bookstores (and are too expensive otherwise). However, I'm not sure if the books I'm after are actually available in any eBook format. Is there a way to find this out? [more inside]
posted by divabat at 11:13 PM PST - 9 comments

Hourly Rate to Charge for Contracting as a PM/Scheduler

What's the going rate for contracting in Northern California as a Project Manager and Scheduler? [more inside]
posted by gov_moonbeam at 11:09 PM PST - 8 comments

Help me reunite best friends.

My mom recently told me that she had a best friend when she was in grade school, many many many years ago. When her friend moved across the world, they lost track of each other. Now I want to find that person. [more inside]
posted by nondescript at 10:45 PM PST - 9 comments

I (read about people who) see dead people

[PeopleWhoSeeDeadPeopleFilter] Help me find some books... [more inside]
posted by buzzkillington at 10:20 PM PST - 7 comments

Tip Reporting

You Are Not My Accountant/Lawyer/Whatever. But, do you have any answers or could you point me in the right direction of a resource that could answer the following question regarding tipped service staff in the state of Florida? [more inside]
posted by sarelicar at 9:59 PM PST - 1 comment

What do you wish you had known before you adopted a child?

What do you wish you had known before you adopted a child? [more inside]
posted by K and S at 9:53 PM PST - 9 comments

It's a series of (really poorly labeled) tubes. . .

Biomed folks! Please give me your tips, tricks and tools for writing legibly on Eppendorf tubes! [more inside]
posted by palmcorder_yajna at 9:44 PM PST - 17 comments

What is it like to live with law students?

What is it like living with law students as roommates? [more inside]
posted by proficiency101 at 9:11 PM PST - 18 comments

Best tech grants for K-12 schools?

What are the best technology grants for K-12 schools? [more inside]
posted by TNLNYC at 8:55 PM PST - 5 comments

They sold out the blonde one, this is you with a tan.

[GiftFilter] A good friend of mine is from Hawaii and I'd like to buy something for her birthday. It should have 1) A blonde girl 2) surfing related (preferable). or beach-related.
posted by jstarlee at 8:51 PM PST - 2 comments

Eyeglass fit for Asian faces in NYC

Which eyeglass shop in NYC could most ably adjust eyeglasses to fit an Asian face? [more inside]
posted by mnemonic at 8:39 PM PST - 3 comments

Quilted Smoking Jacket!

A friend has offered me a prize to find this jacket for sale. A similar jacket also made an appearance in Dinner for Schmucks, worn by Bruce Greenwood. The key search terms seem to be "quilted smoking jacket", but my googling has not turned anything up. I hate to use AskMeFi for this, but there is CASH at stake!
posted by i_am_a_fiesta at 7:56 PM PST - 16 comments

Can anyone recommend a holster & case combo for the IPhone 4?

Can anyone recommend a holster & case combo for the IPhone 4? [more inside]
posted by braveterry at 7:39 PM PST - 3 comments

How to ask a guy for casual sex?

How should a female bring up the idea of having casual sex to a man? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 6:53 PM PST - 39 comments

Non-theist's guides to grief, please?

Memoirs on grief, please? Looking for books, articles or blogs that are about the personal experience of surviving and processing the death of a loved one. Humanists and non-theists of various stripes welcome; inspirational tomes, not so much. [more inside]
posted by MonkeyToes at 6:38 PM PST - 29 comments

Help me fix the A/C in my VW Golf TDI

My air conditioning suddenly conked out on my 2002 Volkswagen Golf TDI (diesel). The mechanics at the dealership are having trouble finding the cause and I'm spending a lot of money on diagnostics, with no definitive end in sight. It's hot here in Toronto - help. [more inside]
posted by analog at 6:08 PM PST - 14 comments

pick a color login

I recently saw a captcha-like device that used a color picker to log in. The viewer was asked to 'Pick the color orange' from a palette of 9 colors (or so), thus separating humans from bots. Seen it? [more inside]
posted by artdrectr at 5:56 PM PST - 7 comments

Please help me evoke my childhood?

Please help me find the perfect water glass. Fortunately, I know exactly what it is. Unfortunately, I can't find it anywhere in the world. Maybe because the last time I saw one was in the late 1940s? [more inside]
posted by fivesavagepalms at 5:45 PM PST - 16 comments

Cable and Internet me in the Pioneer Valley

What's the best cable/internet deal in the Pioneer Valley? [more inside]
posted by prior at 5:42 PM PST - 9 comments

How to access WaPo archives online?

I'm trying to access a series of WaPo articles from 1968-1971, but I'm not having any luck with LexisNexis, Proquest, or the newspaper's website. I know the names/dates of the articles, but they aren't showing up in my LexisNexis searches. (My library's microfilm WaPo collection only goes back to 1974.) Does anyone have another idea of where to look for archived newspaper articles online?
posted by LeonBernstein at 5:39 PM PST - 5 comments

Fixing Processing Java applet issues in Chrome?

Do you how to solve these weird problems with Processing/Java applet rendering in Chrome? [more inside]
posted by finnb at 4:52 PM PST - 7 comments

Steampunk me an ipod dock

Is there any service out there that will turn a classic radio into an iphone dock for a fee? [more inside]
posted by rileyray3000 at 4:33 PM PST - 6 comments

No, I'm not OK (with my remote control)

I have a Suddenlink branded Motorola PVR. I need to remap one of the keys on the Suddenlink provided remote control [more inside]
posted by tayknight at 4:28 PM PST - 3 comments

Which kosher brand of Vitamin has no more than 3,000 or 3,500 IU of Vitamin A?

Which kosher brand of Vitamin has no more than 3,000 or 3,500 IU of Vitamin A?
posted by Tziv at 4:25 PM PST - 3 comments

Cheaper Internet?

Can one play Xbox Live over the sprint 4g network? [more inside]
posted by alextprice at 4:25 PM PST - 3 comments

Art of the Cocktail in Ottawa, Canada?

Mixology in Ottawa, Canada: where to go for classic cocktails prepared by a skilled bartender? [more inside]
posted by braemar at 4:18 PM PST - 3 comments

My fingers hurt! Did I just pull lawn duty, too?

My fingers hurt and I'm too young for arthritis! I've been working in the tech/construction field for 3-4 months now and my hands are killing me. I like this job and want to keep doing it. I also want to be able to play guitar in 20 years. What can I do? [more inside]
posted by es_de_bah at 3:36 PM PST - 21 comments

DFT for inorganic chemists

Do you know of resources for understanding Density Functional Theory for Inorganic Chemists? [more inside]
posted by u2604ab at 3:08 PM PST - 5 comments

How do you keep in touch?

What are your favourite ways of keeping in touch for networking? [more inside]
posted by doobiedoo at 3:06 PM PST - 8 comments

My Chemical Romance

I'm trying to find coffee mugs that have individual elements on their sides for a birthday gift, but have not been able to find them. Can you help? [more inside]
posted by Dr.James.Orin.Incandenza at 2:59 PM PST - 5 comments

Can I charge other devices with the iPad power adapter?

Can I plug any old USB cable into the 10W USB Power Adapter that came with my iPad and use it to charge other devices? Or will I fry something in the process?
posted by turaho at 2:51 PM PST - 9 comments

Searching for a disability-friendly apartment in Chicago.

Two female college students with disabilities in Chicago needing to either pay off their lease tomorrow or find suitable new housing before the end of the month. [more inside]
posted by Socky McSock at 2:47 PM PST - 5 comments

Please guide me through the magical world of potty training

Please tell me alllllllll about potty training. [more inside]
posted by A Terrible Llama at 2:43 PM PST - 39 comments

NH Hiking: Mt. Major or Mt. Cardigan?

NH hike this weekend: Mt. Major or Mt. Cardigan? [more inside]
posted by eggman at 2:36 PM PST - 3 comments

How to set up a custom profile on the Blackberry World Edition?

How can I set up a custom profile for the Blackberry World Edition 8830: Silent for email, Vibrate for Text messages and Ring for phone? [more inside]
posted by HollyAnn at 2:35 PM PST - 2 comments

Fiction about the Gulf War/Iraq/Afghanistan?

I'm looking for novels (or short stories) written about the Gulf War, the Iraq War, or Afghanistan. There are good memoirs and nonfiction books, but are there any good works of fiction centering on these conflicts?
posted by luxperpetua at 2:34 PM PST - 7 comments

Do SSRIs cause weight gain?

How do SSRIs cause weight gain? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:09 PM PST - 16 comments

NYC's week-to-week room rentals-- what's the deal? are they real?

Renting week-to-week rooms in NYC...are they for real? Are they safe to rent? what should I be aware of? [more inside]
posted by atetrachordofthree at 2:07 PM PST - 17 comments

No Longer Seeing Stars

What happened to all the sea stars on the Jersey Shore? [more inside]
posted by Miko at 1:36 PM PST - 11 comments

Monologues give me the catharsis I need to get going.

I'm looking for podcasts or other spoken word recordings, with the feel of the early Henry Rollins or recent Marc Maron: strongly cathartic, really aggro, with quasi-intellectual ambitions, seemingly able to talk on any issue, vaguely politically progressive, sometimes hyperpersonal. [more inside]
posted by Ash3000 at 1:35 PM PST - 12 comments

Envelope help

Quick question about the USPS: Can I ship a flat-rate Priority Mail envelope by printing postage for it online and then dropping it in a blue USPS mailbox? Or do I need to take it to a post office?
posted by mekily at 1:32 PM PST - 13 comments

I have to rethink everything, now.

I just read Sex at Dawn. It's a book that, as I understand it, questions an assumption that has held sway for most of recorded history. What other books or ideas question assumptions that span millennia? I'm looking for more well-argued cases that rock my reality and cause me to question and recontextualize, well, everything.
posted by zeek321 at 1:27 PM PST - 39 comments

Do my numerous constraints rule out meaningful work with kids?

I'd like to learn about jobs that involve working intensively, one-on-one, with preschool or elementary-aged kids, to help them learn or develop. But, I have so many constraints that I'm not sure any role fits. Could you point me to any possibilities? [more inside]
posted by Other at 1:09 PM PST - 8 comments

Must Compete for Best Flamingo Outfit or Hang Head in Shame

Seattle area filter: So, we have these dear friends who throw a flamingo themed party every year. I don't have much bright pink and green in my wardrobe, and no flamingo accessories like earrings and shoes either. (I DO own a pink feather boa.) Any ideas on where to shop this weekend in Seattle area for flamingo stuff?
posted by bearwife at 12:58 PM PST - 13 comments

borderline

Is Mexico a failed state? [more inside]
posted by four panels at 12:52 PM PST - 14 comments

New to Fairfax, Pt. One

I recently moved to Fairfax, VA, and I have tons of questions about the area. For the sake of organization, I'll ask these questions first and shoot out a second post in the future. Also, know that I've already researched some of these questions on Yelp, Chowhound and the like, but I trust MF much more. [more inside]
posted by leeconger at 12:39 PM PST - 27 comments

Great Wedding gifts for travelers?

Help me put together the perfect wedding gift for 2 amazingly cool world travelers. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 12:30 PM PST - 20 comments

The Murder of Gonzago

What songs include bits and pieces of other songs? [more inside]
posted by samsarah at 11:41 AM PST - 97 comments

What cute lions are these?

Does anyone recognize these lion illustrations as part of a larger series, or were they a one-off? I'm looking for a reference image I can use to decorate my daughter's birthday cake. These are so cute, and almost perfect, but I'd love to see more, if they exist. Other recommendations for cute female lion cub references are welcome, too. Thanks for your help!
posted by littlegreenlights at 11:34 AM PST - 9 comments

Keeping hyperlinks when saving Word docs as PDF

Losing my hyperlinks when I save Word 2007 documents as PDF. [more inside]
posted by Dukat at 11:26 AM PST - 4 comments

Kindle for everyone?

It's hard to ignore the Kindle and e-book readers in general and while I am not against the technology, as a huge believer in, user and supporter of The Public Library I am a little concerned about what this kind of technology will do to access for all. How does the Kindle etc fit into the equation? [more inside]
posted by nnk at 11:21 AM PST - 22 comments

Where should I travel for a "bonus day" in Israel and/or Palestine?

I will be travelling for work as part of a delegation to Israel and Palestine in early October. I'm hoping to stay for an extra day or two at the end, but I can't decide what I should do with my time. Help? [more inside]
posted by sabotagerabbit at 11:09 AM PST - 11 comments

Nobody's business but the Turks.

Suggestions for a young (American) woman going to live in Turkey. [more inside]
posted by BusyBusyBusy at 11:05 AM PST - 7 comments

Suggesting "Cherry Pie" Isn't Helpful

For reasons I won't get into, I have four cans of cherry pie filling. What, other than cherry pie, can I make with them? [more inside]
posted by resiny at 11:03 AM PST - 28 comments

Rejected!

What is the best and worst time of the month for women to donate blood? [more inside]
posted by raztaj at 11:02 AM PST - 10 comments

Automatically connecting to a specific website on a port other than 80

Is it possible to get a browser to connect automatically to a port other than 80 for a specific website? [more inside]
posted by Hartster at 10:55 AM PST - 7 comments

Does Las Vegas have any reputable camera dealers?

Does Las Vegas have good, legit deals on cameras? [more inside]
posted by Joseppi at 10:52 AM PST - 5 comments

Objecting to Objectivism

Please help me respectfully engage with a young relative who has declared a passion for Ayn Rand (we're getting together tomorrow for a friendly conversation on the issue). [more inside]
posted by jokeefe at 10:48 AM PST - 48 comments

Testing leads to failure, and failure leads to understanding.

ApplicationDevelopment Filter: The IT Director at my company balked at my suggestion that we conduct User Acceptance Testing on every requirement to be included in an upcoming release. Moreover, she told me that testing every requirement has not been a best practice for over 10 years. Is this true? [more inside]
posted by bluejayway at 10:46 AM PST - 9 comments

Where to discuss sci-fi & fantasy?

What is the best online forum to discuss sci-fi and fantasy literature? I am not looking for places devoted to specific book(s) or some author.
posted by avysk at 10:41 AM PST - 12 comments

With a smile I face the future

OK, I've done that, now teach me to smile. [more inside]
posted by muteh at 10:40 AM PST - 11 comments

Help Me Help Her

What can I give or do for my supervisor to show my support and help her with the stress of caring for a family member after a lung transplant? [more inside]
posted by princesspathos at 10:36 AM PST - 3 comments

Help me find a cool watch for a shrimp.

Hip watches for tiny wrists. [more inside]
posted by ishotjr at 10:29 AM PST - 12 comments

Fallen by prickly heat

I've had a heat rash for two weeks now. The doctor told me to see an allergist. I have an appointment. But after looking all this up online, I'm afraid. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 10:28 AM PST - 7 comments

Where should we live near Irvine CA?

My boyfriend will be attending grad school at UC Irvine in Irvine, CA. We'll be moving there soon and need to find a two-bedroom apartment (or tiny house) thats between Irvine and LA: 30-45 from his school, and not too far from the train station (I'll most likely be commuting to LA by train). Neither of us know much about the area, and we'd prefer not to live in an apartment that's mostly UCI undergrads. Please recommend towns in the area we should focus on as we begin our search. (Any other southern CA rental tips would be appreciated too. We're from the east coast and have never rented an apartment in CA.)
posted by anonymous at 10:28 AM PST - 11 comments

Why is my English boyfriend so reserved?

Are British people kind of socially retarded or is it normal for them to not be chatty and friendly with people they don't know well? [more inside]
posted by KimikoPi at 10:28 AM PST - 61 comments

Strengthsfinder - worth it?

Is the StrengthsFinder worth it? [more inside]
posted by pised at 10:18 AM PST - 6 comments

Slide scanning in Toronto

I am looking for a photo slide scanning service in Toronto (preferably North York or close). I just have a couple of slides. In addition to recommendations, what price range should I expect?
posted by Behemoth at 10:16 AM PST - 3 comments

What styles of engagement ring would match with this unusual bezel set diamond wedding band?

What styles of engagement ring would match with this unusual bezel set diamond wedding band? [more inside]
posted by mintchip at 10:08 AM PST - 8 comments

step on it !

I'm learning English.On my dictionary, there 's a phrase, " step on the accelerator (brake)." Will it be true? Then, how can I distinguish between hitting the brake and stepping on the Gas , when you say, " Step on it!" ??
posted by mizukko at 10:04 AM PST - 24 comments

Help, I've debted and I can't get up.

I owe my ex-school lots of money, and don't know what to do. Help! [more inside]
posted by shesaysgo at 9:58 AM PST - 25 comments

Don't sugarcoat this one!

Low-carb rhubarb recipes: have any? [more inside]
posted by Kurichina at 9:52 AM PST - 10 comments

How to stop subtle bullying behavior.

How to stop bullying in a friend/business relationship? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:51 AM PST - 20 comments

I'm not Jewish - Can I use JDate?

After some recent success stories from friends, I'm thinking of trying out JDate. The rub? I'm not, nor do I aspire to become, Jewish. Can I do this without looking like a tourist? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:51 AM PST - 31 comments

House rental in Ptown?

I want to rent a house in Provincetown next summer. [more inside]
posted by E-Boogie at 9:32 AM PST - 2 comments

MMORPG Noob

My boyfriend wants me to start playing a MMORPG with him. I'm feeling more than a little overwhelmed. Help me? [more inside]
posted by Colonel_Chappy at 9:14 AM PST - 22 comments

It's Not "Ergonomic" I Need; I Need "Comfortable"

It's not an ergonomic keyboard I need, just one that doesn't hurt my tendons -- any suggestions? [more inside]
posted by vitabellosi at 9:05 AM PST - 13 comments

Got smoke?

How can I intentionally make charcoal smoke? I need to carry a smoking container for a costume. I ordered hookah coals to put in the container. They burn great, but have minimal smoke. I'd like it to smolder and smoke for as long as possible. Any suggestions?
posted by juggler at 8:27 AM PST - 16 comments

Two days of biking from Portland, OR

Two day bike adventure leaving from Portland, OR? [more inside]
posted by kmtiszen at 8:04 AM PST - 3 comments

Who's the flood controliest?

Can any Chicago folks recommend a contractor to install a sewer backup preventer or flood control system? [more inside]
posted by specialnobodie at 7:57 AM PST - 3 comments

Finding private landlords in the UK

Is there a decent website for searching for properties to let from private landlords in the UK, or am I stuck dealing with parasitic letting agencies? [more inside]
posted by him at 7:33 AM PST - 10 comments

Where should I park overnight, coming from South Jersey, to take a train to NYC?

Where should I park overnight, coming from South Jersey, to take a train to NYC? [more inside]
posted by madcaptenor at 7:29 AM PST - 16 comments

Hands in the Air Celebrations!

When did (american) sports fans start celebrating by jumping and putting their hands straight in the air (see A-Rod). I recall watching highlights from the early 80s and beyond and while crowds were loud, they're reactions were different. Bonus: Does this differ in other countries?
posted by sandmanwv at 6:55 AM PST - 17 comments

Anybody know of therapy/counseling options in Tokyo area?

Can anybody recommend a therapist/counselor in the Tokyo area, preferably for cheap/free, and on the west side of town? [more inside]
posted by segatakai at 6:51 AM PST - 3 comments

Smelly carpet smells like mildew - eww

How do I get the smell out of this recently flooded carpet? [more inside]
posted by jammy at 6:49 AM PST - 10 comments

Like the tree said to the lumberjack.

I write a brief column that answers a fun bit of trivia or reference type question. I've had a column come up at the last minute, and I'm stuck for ideas! [more inside]
posted by codacorolla at 6:45 AM PST - 33 comments

But I want it, because it is shiny and good.

A question about what to do about a cell phone. Way too much beanplating inside. [more inside]
posted by TomMelee at 6:33 AM PST - 16 comments

Kitty Wants Products

Are there television advertisements designed for pets? [more inside]
posted by turgid dahlia at 6:10 AM PST - 16 comments

Which direction should we travel? Into Rome, out of London or vice-versa?

In general, for a family vacation, would it be easier to fly into Rome Fiumicino and out of London Heathrow, or fly into England and out of Italy? [more inside]
posted by Ashman at 5:55 AM PST - 23 comments

help me work up some attraction!

Help me develop physical attraction to someone who did not strike me at first as a hot. [more inside]
posted by genmonster at 5:29 AM PST - 32 comments

Where can I find online rush footage?

What are the best places to look for unedited media rushes? [more inside]
posted by King_Wang at 5:25 AM PST - 1 comment

Damn these flies

How do I deal with a bitey insect tenant? [more inside]
posted by teabag at 4:11 AM PST - 11 comments

I want to freestyle and I'm really keen, but I need a plan so hit me with it green

I want to become proficient at freestyle rapping and rapping in general inc writing raps. Help me develop a training routine! I want to treat this as if it was a sport I was going to compete in, with structured daily blocks of practice to work on different skills etc. I have lots of ideas of things to work on at the gym for my sport, but not for this. I need some ideas and some structure - thanks :) [more inside]
posted by Chrysalis at 3:32 AM PST - 13 comments

Global Keratin Hair Taming treatment: personal experiences?

I'm considering a Global Keratin Hair Taming treatment. Looking for personal experiences, do the results justify the cost, does it really last up to 5 months, are there specific skills I should look for in the stylist applying the treatment? [more inside]
posted by moody cow at 3:15 AM PST - 6 comments

Even third wheels get tired sometimes

My sister and I just moved into a small studio apartment. (480sq ft) My sister's boyfriend wants to move in too, for at least three weeks. He's already here and has been here for a few days already. Weird relationship drama, family issues, dependence issues and no clue where I stand in all of this. Help? [more inside]
posted by tachikoma_robot at 2:54 AM PST - 40 comments

August 4

What's the difference between depressed and dissatisfied?

What's the difference between depressed and dissatisfied? [more inside]
posted by ootandaboot at 11:32 PM PST - 25 comments

How do I go backpacking in the backcountry?

What are the logistics involved in back-country camping / backpacking (CA specific)? [more inside]
posted by jnnla at 11:15 PM PST - 20 comments

When does unsure become a deal breaker?

RelationshipAndPetFilter: 1 very busy college student (me), 1 full time worker (him), moving in together. I have two cats. I want a dog. He also, mostly, wants a dog. Help us compromise and decide. [more inside]
posted by shesdeadimalive at 10:57 PM PST - 23 comments

Colleges and Facebook

What are things i can do to prevent colleges from getting into my personal life? [more inside]
posted by NotSoSiniSter at 10:51 PM PST - 12 comments

Can I order a long espresso at an American Starbucks?

Why can Starbucks in Canada pull a long shot, while Starbucks in America cannot? [more inside]
posted by monkeymike at 10:07 PM PST - 22 comments

If it's yellow, let it mellow into a hard sandy crust at the bottom of the toilet.

My roommate and I long ago decided that we would not flush pee. Save water and all. The only problem is this: apparently if you let urine sit in the toilet, it turns into a really attractive layer of brown sediment, in a spot that is very difficult to clean with a toilet brush . . . right up to the front of the little recess on the bottom, and right in the back of it as well. Is there anything we can add to the reservoir to keep this from happening? [more inside]
posted by kensington314 at 9:54 PM PST - 32 comments

Not a disco ball, but a disco...disc?

What is the name of the light that comes in as the background around 1:05 of this video? Bonus points for other wacky disco lights you can tell me about.
posted by mike_bling at 9:26 PM PST - 5 comments

Best combo for desired workflow?

WebDevFilter: What software combo will give me the workflow I need? Difficulty: Wordpress and invoicing. [more inside]
posted by shopefowler at 9:19 PM PST - 0 comments

Can I use screensharing with an external VPN?

osx -> osx screen sharing works fine until I connect to work VPN at which point the screen sharing session dies and the machine is unpingable etc. Workaround? [more inside]
posted by H. Roark at 8:56 PM PST - 9 comments

What coach said this?

I am looking for the name of the coach and team of a video I saw at a seminar about 10 years ago.? In the video the coach said something along the lines of "before you come to me with a problem think of three possible solutions." Not sure, but I think it was a football coach. Anyone know this coach or know the video? Ideally I could find a link to the video.
posted by davathar at 8:52 PM PST - 2 comments

How to use linking tables and bound objects in MS Access forms.

Microsoft Access 2007 form creation question. Hopefully not-too-wrongheaded and clearly described inside. [more inside]
posted by jsturgill at 8:50 PM PST - 2 comments

Nerves Jangling. Rest needed.

I need a rest! Help pleez. [more inside]
posted by sweetkid at 8:31 PM PST - 8 comments

Who do I hire to organize my music collection in a format that is not going to be obsolete in two years?

I need to hire someone to go through all of my CDs and render them into a format I can currently make use of. [more inside]
posted by msali at 8:28 PM PST - 10 comments

Help me figure out what this summer sound is - frog, insect??

I'm trying to figure out what this sound is: specifically heard in the summer, in the woods - either a frog or some sort of insect I think (not crickets though). Could be described as "cheet-cheet-cheet-cheet" repeated. An exact example can be found in the very beginning of the R.E.M. song "You Are Everything" from the album Green. Super bonus question: would love to find a recording of this to purchase/download. Thanks!
posted by staveitoff123 at 8:23 PM PST - 16 comments

Good Book about Zoroastrianism

If I wanted to buy a good book about zoroastrianism, what should I place my faith in?
posted by notcostello at 7:47 PM PST - 3 comments

Vacation rental from an owner--is this a scam?

I decided to try vacation rentals from an owner for an upcoming trip, but am now getting cold feet about being scammed. [more inside]
posted by artifarce at 7:40 PM PST - 24 comments

How Do You Deal With The Difficult Different?

Say you run a website that has a relatively self-maintaining and friendly (if tough and playful) community of commenters. How do you best manage a new commenter who shows up and clearly enjoys stinking up the room? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:31 PM PST - 18 comments

Sydney business accommodation

I am looking for advice on accommodation for my regular business travel to Sydney. [more inside]
posted by AnnaRat at 6:58 PM PST - 13 comments

Principle domain of a polar equation?

I need help understanding the "principle domain" (a term only my professor seems to use) of a polar function. That is, how do I find the smallest value delta such that [0,delta] plots all of the unique points on the curve; any values greater than delta re-trace points. I suspect that if MeFi could identify the more common name for this, uh, procedure, I'd be set.
posted by phrontist at 6:50 PM PST - 10 comments

Interested in Interest

Please help me think through a financial decision involving a mortgage refinance and an auto loan. [more inside]
posted by BlahLaLa at 6:43 PM PST - 9 comments

Help me label my jars

I've got the canning bug this year - we'll have loads of produce, and I want to start pickling (in addition to jam and sauce). Yay! My problem? I need labels! [more inside]
posted by dbmcd at 6:37 PM PST - 14 comments

So simple, there should be a million of 'em

Recommend a Calendar Application for OS X - special snowflake requirement. [more inside]
posted by VikingSword at 6:36 PM PST - 11 comments

Scary Neighbor Or My Bad?

What should I do about my angry new neighbor? [more inside]
posted by thinkpiece at 6:24 PM PST - 49 comments

Where should I eat in Palm Springs, California?

Feed me, Seymour! I'm a hard-core foodie who's going to be spending a long weekend in Palm Springs, California, and I don't want to waste a single eating opportunity. Additionally, I need a place to eat after my plane lands at 10:30 p.m. on a Friday. [more inside]
posted by MexicanYenta at 6:08 PM PST - 8 comments

Export my Mysql PDF binary_blob into a file

Exporting PDF binary blog data into an outfile with mysql. Yeah, remind me how to do that without getting corrupt files again? [more inside]
posted by bhance at 6:05 PM PST - 1 comment

Help me remember a movie where a woman falls through a table

Movie ID: Help me remember a movie I saw on a plane in the 1980's. [more inside]
posted by reenum at 5:42 PM PST - 6 comments

Moving in too soon?

I've been in a relationship with an awesome guy for about five months, and we're thinking of moving in together. From an outsider's standpoint, is it too soon? [more inside]
posted by amiableamy at 5:41 PM PST - 43 comments

Olive Drab hair?

I want to dye my hair olive drab. [more inside]
posted by bink at 5:34 PM PST - 17 comments

Make these pixels represent life in the z-axis

YANA Image Consultant: What's the best way for a Jack of all Trades to present himself online? [more inside]
posted by blazingunicorn at 5:34 PM PST - 2 comments

Some homuncululi may have been injured in the production of this banana peel based construction material

Help me identify a dimly remembered short story... A scientist has created or evolved a race of tiny super intelligent creatures. By setting cruel puzzles for them (such as a descending weight that threatens to crush them) he gets them to invent things for him, one of which was a super strong material made out of banana peel. It most likely ends badly for the scientist.
posted by Artw at 5:24 PM PST - 6 comments

Can I still be a friend? Maybe a different kind of friend?

Help me deal with transitioning from peer to authority figure. [more inside]
posted by bookmammal at 5:09 PM PST - 7 comments

Cheap Wedding in New England?

Cheap weddings in New England? [more inside]
posted by tessalations999 at 4:49 PM PST - 13 comments

Must-See Scenic Drives and Attractions Driving West from Cincinnati to Seattle

What are some must-see scenic drives and attractions to be found on a one-way roadtrip West from Cincinnati, OH to Seattle, WA. Mid-40s opposite-sex couple who love photography, don't like hiking very much but appreciate a good hot spring, and are what you would call "foodies". We're thinking about the Badlands and Black Hills, but what else? Also, what stretches of road can we avoid to stave off boredom, and where should we drive instead of them? We can go a bit out of our way, but would like to be back at our jobs within a week.
posted by matildaben at 4:35 PM PST - 12 comments

Awkward!

Help me not be a socially-awkward weirdo around men I find attractive. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:28 PM PST - 11 comments

An Injury Sooner Forgotten

What could be the physiology involved in mild headaches weeks after head injury? [more inside]
posted by Mertonian at 4:15 PM PST - 7 comments

Going to Bolivia, what should I know?

My sister is planning a trip to Bolivia to do voluntary work with a feline restoration project for some weeks (perhaps even longer). I really want to help but South America is a blind spot on my map with regards to knowledge. Could I ask you to fill me in; what does she need to know about travel and living in Bolivia?
posted by Niklas at 4:13 PM PST - 7 comments

Disposable Me.

When is it reasonable to expect exclusivity in the online dating community? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:12 PM PST - 19 comments

How do I go about interviewing for and working at a fast food restaurant?

I am a 30 year old man about to go for a job interview... flipping burgers for a certain clown. I'd appreciate any hints or tips on how to approach the interview. And when I get the job, how do I handle that? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:12 PM PST - 11 comments

Blackberry Bold Keyboard Quirky Problem - Any Advice?

I just bought a Blackberry Bold 9700, and unlocked it (so there's no warranty). I have used it for about a month or 6 weeks, and following a trip to the beach where it did not get wet, the buttons are not responding properly. Example: the keyguard button on the top left of the phone locks keys but won't unlock keys. The End Call / Power button ends calls and turns off the phone, but won't turn it on. All the keys work but pushing two buttons at once cancels both requests. I've re-installed the software (I think) and left it in rice overnight and both did not help, except for an hour or so when it randomly started working and then stopped again. Do you have any ideas what's wrong with it, and if I am able to fix it myself? (I have a T5 screwdriver if I need to crack it open). Thanks in advance! :)
posted by Rookei@hotmail.com at 4:02 PM PST - 10 comments

Clean start

What are your favorite not-so-expensive facial soaps, shampoos, conditioners and/or body washes? (If you can order them from Amazon that is a big, big plus!) [more inside]
posted by pulled_levers at 3:21 PM PST - 50 comments

Largest city on the second day: Macon, GA

Traffic & routing advice needed in Nashville & Atlanta. (No, really, these are related.) [more inside]
posted by Johnny Assay at 3:19 PM PST - 20 comments

Best examples of B2B websites capable of converting visitors to customers?

What are the best examples of B2B websites capable of converting visitors to customers? [more inside]
posted by ElfWord at 3:10 PM PST - 4 comments

Critical Paris?

Critical Mass in Paris? [more inside]
posted by opek at 3:10 PM PST - 3 comments

With a knife, a battery and some mud we can build a town!

What novels would you recommend regarding a small group of people rebuilding 'society' or 'civilization'? [more inside]
posted by Sustainable Chiles at 2:56 PM PST - 52 comments

Best option for STD for pregnancy?

Can you please help me understand short term disability (and options) and pregnancy/maternity leave? [more inside]
posted by cestmoi15 at 2:55 PM PST - 8 comments

An appeal to authority - Social Sciences boffins please read

Are the results of Bob Altemeyer's research, as presented most recently in his book The Authoritarians, solid? [more inside]
posted by jtron at 2:42 PM PST - 5 comments

Gerçek dünyada Yenidil.

Which of the thousands of neologisms coined in the Turkish language reforms of the 1920s and 30s stuck, which ones didn't--and why? [more inside]
posted by lapsangsouchong at 2:40 PM PST - 9 comments

Should I choose between my boyfriend or my career....2 years in advance?

Should I choose between my boyfriend or my career....2 years in advance? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:39 PM PST - 24 comments

Is my deep sleep percentage sufficient?

How should I interpret the fact that I get 10% deep sleep a night? [more inside]
posted by namesarehard at 2:19 PM PST - 5 comments

Help me start a web development/programming business.

What do I need to do over the next two years so that I can start my own home business doing programming? I already work in Web Development for my job. [more inside]
posted by chocolatemilkshakes at 2:15 PM PST - 7 comments

Psych Me Up

Can you recommend a few strong lady stories? [more inside]
posted by *s at 2:14 PM PST - 34 comments

Is there a movies release date reminder?

Is there a website or application where I can mark a movie to remember I want to watch it when it's released? I've found many that let you add to your wishlist, but I need one that notify me when a movie is released, so I am aware to go to the cinema or download it. [more inside]
posted by Leech at 2:06 PM PST - 3 comments

Dots wobble, but they don't fall down.

How would you quantify wobble? [more inside]
posted by dmd at 2:05 PM PST - 16 comments

Professors make excuses, too.

Help me find this blog post or online article in which a professor humorously reverses classic student excuses for lateness/underperformance! [more inside]
posted by Bardolph at 2:05 PM PST - 6 comments

But I can't throw these away!

Where can I donate used toys? [more inside]
posted by leedly at 1:29 PM PST - 17 comments

Trying to find a certain TS Eliot quote

Help me find this T.S. Eliot quote! [more inside]
posted by kittensofthenight at 1:18 PM PST - 2 comments

Beauty School Books from the 40s/50s/60s?

Please help me find these beauty school textbooks from the 1940s, 50s, or 60s. [more inside]
posted by rhiannonstone at 1:07 PM PST - 4 comments

Identify this b-movie from the 80s

Identify this b-movie from the 80s [more inside]
posted by solmyjuice at 1:06 PM PST - 11 comments

What are you getting for your $1 billion?

How anyone (or anyone you know) benefited in one respect or another from the provisions in the new U.S. health care bill? I'm not asking this in Fox News-ish way, I am actually curious. [more inside]
posted by hiteleven at 12:59 PM PST - 29 comments

I have no self control, I need software to help

Is there a windows equivalent of the OS X program Self Control? [more inside]
posted by eisenkr at 12:44 PM PST - 5 comments

Scentfilter

What would be a good Eau de Toilette to replace Armani Mania? [more inside]
posted by dominik at 12:42 PM PST - 15 comments

See spots run?

What could be causing these tiny, red pinprick dots on my skin? [more inside]
posted by oinopaponton at 12:36 PM PST - 13 comments

What's life like in St.Petersburg/Tampa, Florida?

What's life like in St.Petersburg/Tampa, Florida? [more inside]
posted by caveatz at 12:30 PM PST - 18 comments

Help me overcome my emetophobia

Have you "cured" an extreme phobia that you once had? How did you do it? [more inside]
posted by KogeLiz at 11:56 AM PST - 22 comments

Fruits, vegetables, and nutrition

In nutritional terms, what is the difference between fruits and vegetables? Are there substances in one that are severely lacking in the other? [more inside]
posted by philosophygeek at 11:48 AM PST - 13 comments

Cabin rental nearish NYC?

My birthday's coming up, and I'm looking to rent a cabin in the woods with some friends for a weekend. I'm looking for a good balance of price, proximity to NYC (ideally within 2 hours, any direction, the less the better) and woodsy-ness. Recommendations for either a specific place/rental company/rental website would be super appreciated. [more inside]
posted by frankdrebin at 11:34 AM PST - 8 comments

How to export secondary citations from Google Scholar or similar database??

How can I extract a list of "second-generation" citations from Google Scholar search results, preferably in such a way that this information is easily parsable into lists of authors, titles, journals, and year published? [more inside]
posted by samac at 11:14 AM PST - 5 comments

Underhanded business practices, negligent customer, or ...?

When I moved to Montreal about 5 years ago I signed up with Videotron as my internet provider. They had an "Extreme" plan that was fast and had unlimited data for a flat rate. I haven't really made much use of this package since I got it, but last month I ended up downloading a fair amount of data. Soon after I ended up getting a bill for over $800! [more inside]
posted by Smuth at 11:11 AM PST - 8 comments

Supply the product for this commercial

I am trying to locate/remember a commercial that is currently airing nationally for a tech product or service. I have seen it around 5 times but I don't want to wait for it to serendipitously pop up again. Help me remember the product that goes a long with the commercial I describe below. (I'm not interested in purchasing the product or anything, I only want to examine the ad.) [more inside]
posted by Jagz-Mario at 11:07 AM PST - 5 comments

A path to Starcraft 2 mastery

Now that Starcraft 2 is out, how do I go from beginner to skilled amateur or semi-pro? [more inside]
posted by splice at 10:58 AM PST - 19 comments

Cosmetology School with dorms

Are there any Cosmetology schools with housing in Massachusetts?
posted by biochemist at 10:30 AM PST - 2 comments

Nokia 5800 will surf, but none of the other apps will connect.

My Nokia 5800 will surf the internet, but none of the other apps will connect. [more inside]
posted by Not Supplied at 10:16 AM PST - 8 comments

How to give better massages

Help my partner and I give each other awesome massages! [more inside]
posted by torisaur at 9:51 AM PST - 11 comments

Relinquishing Co-Ownership of a Home

What complications are likely to ensue if one co-owner voluntarily relinquishes her share to a family home without receiving any payment or other compensation? Would there, for example, be any kind of tax obligation that could result. This concerns my second wife, who was added as co-owner after we were married. After I die and after she either she leaves the house or dies, we want the property to revert to my children by my first marriage. I fear her co-ownership of the property could complicate this. FWIW, I don’t plan to make any decisions based on input I receive from your responses. But before talking to a lawyer, I want to become familiar with the ins and outs of the situation.
posted by NinaLee at 9:32 AM PST - 9 comments

What's a good color temperature in vague terms for DTP work?

What's a good colour temperature for DTP work, in terms of warmness/coolness? That's to say, what will avoid me getting too much of a shock when I see the printed materials (that include photos)? My 2009-era Macbook Pro's display edges towards warm (yellowish) while my Samsung SyncMaster 2333 edges towards coolness (blueish).
posted by deeper red at 9:28 AM PST - 4 comments

Find the missing sexbot!

Oh great and powerful hive mind, please help me concoct (another) near-future science fiction story. [more inside]
posted by Guy_Inamonkeysuit at 9:13 AM PST - 25 comments

How to get hollywood in the backwoods?

I'm looking for a low cost timecode slate. Which is this But instead of costing $1200 or so and being a dedicated piece of equipment. Maybe something more like this. Though I don't have an iPhone so that program is out. Does anyone know of one that runs on Windows, like a tablet PC? or maybe one that was self built from a microcontroller (arduino, stamp, etc) SMPTE can be read by the Arduino so it might be possible. Thanks.
posted by tropikal at 9:01 AM PST - 4 comments

I need help, but I'm worried about it.

I need to get help with my mental illness, but I don't know who to see or where to start. [more inside]
posted by your mom's a sock puppet at 8:55 AM PST - 11 comments

Sparky's? Music? Mixup?

I'm trying to remember a series of 78rpm records I had as a kid. I think the name is Sparky's Music Mixup. [more inside]
posted by DMelanogaster at 8:53 AM PST - 5 comments

Can anybody recommend a clipboard app for Mac 10.6?

Can anybody recommend a clipboard app for Mac 10.6? [more inside]
posted by crios at 8:40 AM PST - 11 comments

It's not me, it's all of you.

How do you friend-dump your entire social circle? [more inside]
posted by ladybird at 8:40 AM PST - 39 comments

Should I work as a freelance programmer?

Very general question: Freelance programming - how/what/when/where? [more inside]
posted by oracle bone at 8:28 AM PST - 6 comments

Uncle with cape, sans gift

My lively niece in Boulder is turning 3 fingers old on Saturday and I want to weigh in with something that doesn't get the shelf within 5 minutes. Ideas? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:54 AM PST - 27 comments

What to say the last day of a break up when returning stuff?

How to behave and what to say when returning stuff to an ex after a break up? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:47 AM PST - 44 comments

help me parse this range of data using excel, by number of events per time span...

help me parse this range of data using excel, by number of events per time span... [more inside]
posted by chasles at 7:37 AM PST - 16 comments

How to be a great first time TA?

How to be a great first time TA? [more inside]
posted by amileighs at 7:25 AM PST - 32 comments

She's perfect for the job--how to convince them of that?

How to land a job as an English professor at a community college? [more inside]
posted by aka burlap at 7:23 AM PST - 13 comments

"You Never Have to Clean Bio-Pergo! It Just Grows a New Epithelial Layer!"

Proactively Addressing Juicy Juice Spills: which home building/home improvement items (paint, flooring, furniture, etc.) are especially good at concealing dirt/wear-'n-tear? I'm looking for specific products as well as product classes. [more inside]
posted by julthumbscrew at 6:32 AM PST - 15 comments

Is there a trick for calming baby kicks during a diaper change?

Is there a secret baby whisperer technique for quelling baby kicks during a diaper change? [more inside]
posted by banjo_and_the_pork at 6:28 AM PST - 29 comments

Video and subtitles, all in one file?

I have a video file (.avi) and a subtitle file (.srt). What is the simplest way to merge these two files into one single video file with built-in subtitles? [more inside]
posted by afx237vi at 6:13 AM PST - 6 comments

Mix me, make me saucy

Give me your recipes for home-made pasta and stir-fry sauces. Quick, cheap and healthy preferred. If they can be made from store-cupboard ingredients, so much the better. I'm in the UK and I'm bored with cook-in sauces. [more inside]
posted by mippy at 6:03 AM PST - 32 comments

Non-psychiatric therapists in Santa Fe?

Therapists in Santa Fe, NM [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:58 AM PST - 1 comment

married and not deported

We're getting married! How do I make sure my fiance doesn't get deported? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:58 AM PST - 21 comments

Face Blew Up

What the heck happened to my face last week? (possibly gross) [more inside]
posted by backseatpilot at 5:14 AM PST - 15 comments

Recommend me a (bare) fileserver for great good

I'd like some recommendations on file server hardware. Ideally I'd like something with space for 6 3.5" SATA drives, the more the better. The server must be able to run FreeNAS and Linux with only modest hacking. I'm not averse to modifying something to get it to do what I want, but since this is going to be a production machine (albeit for home use) I shouldn't have to break out the soldering iron and JTAG cables just to get the OS setup. CPU and RAM don't matter, provided the machine can support a CPU made within the last six years and can accommodate 1GB+ of RAM. Bonus points for the following: space for multiple NICs, IBM, easy access to internals, relatively quiet. Budget max. is $400 *excluding* drives, and used equipment is (obviously) totally fine!
posted by -1 at 5:07 AM PST - 15 comments

Help me maintain a big house, please?!

My parents live alone in a pretty big house (3 storeys, around 100 m^2 each floor). I'm interested of getting some novel and high-tech appliances for them to help in routine and boring domestic chores such as doing the dishes, cleaning, etc. What they've got so far are a washing machine, a microwave oven and a rice cooker so I thought a dishwasher might be useful. Apart from that, could you suggest some other indispensable modern home appliances which make your life around the house so much better?
posted by joewandy at 3:02 AM PST - 21 comments

Gimme Shelter!

Help me plan my move to Vancouver. [more inside]
posted by prufrock at 2:49 AM PST - 10 comments

iTunes DJ + iPhone Remote weirdness

Can anyone explain a seeming inconsistency in the iPhone remote app for controlling iTunes? And ideally provide a work-around. Under certain conditions, iTunes DJ is stopping mid-track and other music starts when it really shouldn't. [more inside]
posted by leakymem at 2:29 AM PST - 3 comments

Mental Health Care in NSW for cheap?

Advice needed for my 20yo sister regarding psychiatrists / psychologists, or some combination of the two, for as-close-to-zero-dollars as possible, in Sydney. Preferably after-hours or weekends. [more inside]
posted by KLF at 1:02 AM PST - 6 comments

Mainstream Media + Men = ???

Any great reads about Hollywood's effect on men? [more inside]
posted by mornie_alantie at 12:02 AM PST - 7 comments

August 3

Beware the Undertrow!

Undertrow? [more inside]
posted by Cold Lurkey at 11:00 PM PST - 16 comments

How to assess an old bicycle

How would I go about finding how old, what worth if any, this old bike has? [more inside]
posted by yodelingisfun at 10:49 PM PST - 9 comments

Slim fit online

Where online can I buy slim fit dress(ish) shirts? [more inside]
posted by god particle at 10:28 PM PST - 20 comments

How to drum up local clients?

I am looking for basic design/development clients in Rochester, NY. I have picked up a few over the past couple months, but would be love to get any any pointers from some more experienced mefites. [more inside]
posted by thsmchnekllsfascists at 10:19 PM PST - 5 comments

Help me find stories and songs for Tiny Humanists

I'm going to teach a Humanist Sunday School class. Help me figure out a good song to sing and stories to read! [more inside]
posted by lexicakes at 9:48 PM PST - 13 comments

Artbook rental

Is there an online rental service for artbooks and coffee table books? [more inside]
posted by ayc200 at 9:02 PM PST - 12 comments

My hotmail doesn't like my iPad - help them get along!

Using hotmail on my iPad, it only sends messages intermittently. Sometimes they send just fine, other times I can push send all I want, nothing happens. Any ideas to fix this? [more inside]
posted by dorey_oh at 8:58 PM PST - 5 comments

Urban Barn furniture - good quality/bad quality/meh?

Anyone have any experience with Urban Barn furniture, good/bad/otherwise? I'm considering buying a used sofa and chair, but wondering if I should take the money and buy a lesser name new set elsewhere, instead. [more inside]
posted by nicoleincanada at 8:40 PM PST - 4 comments

Will he still find me desirable?

Last week I was diagnosed with herpes. Will my boyfriend be attracted to me again? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:40 PM PST - 18 comments

I know, I should've listened to my wife

I was nasty and petty to an unpleasant neighbor, and now I feel terrible about it. How do I improve my confrontation skills, apologize to my neighbor and stop beating myself up? Painfully self-conscious guilt fest below the fold. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 8:39 PM PST - 58 comments

Natural healing of herniated disc

How long did it take you to heal naturally from a herniated disc? [more inside]
posted by lynnie-the-pooh at 8:34 PM PST - 15 comments

I need an awesome map.

I'd like to buy a cool, large map to hang on my wall. [more inside]
posted by rastapasta at 8:28 PM PST - 31 comments

What heart rate monitor works with Precor, Nike and Suunto systems?

Are there differences between heart rate monitors (is there a "universal" protocol they all use?)? I want to buy a heart-rate monitor but I see three difference places that I want it to be compatible: with the Nike+ system, with the treadmills and other ("Polar-compatible") cardio equipment at the gym, and with the Suunto technology that Crunch gym uses for its "Red-line" rides. [more inside]
posted by pnoeric at 8:16 PM PST - 6 comments

Help me remember this site!

Recently visited a website, social advocacy, that had twitter icons as the page background of people joining the movement. New people joining would come in at the upper left. Anyone remember the site?
posted by omidius at 8:15 PM PST - 2 comments

Should I go for a Masters in Geography / GIS?

Should I go for a Masters in Geography / GIS? What will the future hold career-wise? [more inside]
posted by cavs33 at 8:05 PM PST - 9 comments

What are your top five favorite hidden gem books?

What are your top five favorite hidden gem books? [more inside]
posted by GlassHeart at 8:02 PM PST - 47 comments

Privacy is Dead - Laws that have helped make it that way?

I'm looking for legislation (from any country) that has led to large disclosures of personal information because of a lack of care in its construction or implementation. Help me out for work, hive mind!
posted by Sebmojo at 7:30 PM PST - 3 comments

Cheapest way to rent a car in Kansas City?

Long shot, but... what's the dirt-cheapest way to rent a car in Kansas City? [more inside]
posted by Caravantea at 7:18 PM PST - 14 comments

Will Jailbreaking My iPhone Work?

If I jailbreak my iPhone 3G can I use it with another carrier besides AT&T and if so, who. Will it work the same, will all the apps work? Background: I bought the phone from Apple after AT&T told me service at home was available. But it wasn't, they finally admitted it, and said they'd authorize a return to Apple for a refund. But I never got around to sending it back. I needed a phone ASAP so bought a Blackberry on Sprint. But I miss the bells and whistles of the iPhone apps. Is it worth jailbraking and trying to use it? I'm not very clever with gadgets and lose patience. Now that jailbreak is legal I wonder if I should try to make it work. If so, what carrier?
posted by NorthCoastCafe at 6:45 PM PST - 11 comments

How do I report fraud/embezzlement/sketchiness in a nonprofit foundation?

I'm a contracted employee at a non-profit foundation. They seemed decent at first but now there are a lot of ethical/moral issues that are not okay. What organization/entity can I tell? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 6:37 PM PST - 21 comments

Mole on labia?

Is it normal to have a mole on your labia, or should I get it checked out for melanoma? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 6:36 PM PST - 18 comments

Where's Fats?

How do I source a photograph? As in who took it and where I can get it? [more inside]
posted by cachondeo45 at 6:29 PM PST - 5 comments

i need to wrap my head around somethng to wrap around my head.

I need to buy a silver or gray-haired wig that is shoulder-length or longer, somewhere between Orlando, FL, Zephyrhills, FL or Tampa, FL. [more inside]
posted by sandra_s at 6:28 PM PST - 0 comments

Pew pew pew!!

Looking for a good gaming laptop that's not Alienware. Also, about wireless gaming... [more inside]
posted by joyeuxamelie at 5:48 PM PST - 7 comments

High Quality California Flag

Where can I buy a high quality California state flag? [more inside]
posted by LudgerLassen at 4:56 PM PST - 7 comments

How can I use my MLIS and my language skills?

What are potential career options for an MLIS graduate interested in using language and translation skills on the job as well? I am a 21-year-old undergraduate student who will be graduating one quarter early in March 2011. This summer I'm applying to the UW's iSchool MLIS program and hope to start Autumn Quarter 2011. I am very interested in traditional library work, but in the last couple years I have worked hard to learn Spanish. I'm currently training to be a Spanish-English translator and interpreter as well, as this will help pay for my MLIS degree. I would really love a career that could incorporate my growing interests in linguistics and translation, as well as my interests in the research and service-oriented aspects of librarianship. Any suggestions? I know the State Department has some positions that would incorporate all these skills, and I'm looking for other options, too.
posted by wansac at 4:55 PM PST - 14 comments

Ch-ch-ch-ch-changes

Are there any websites, web applications, widgets, or really anything at all that change on a regular basis (like some of the Gmail themes)? [more inside]
posted by ghostbikes at 4:48 PM PST - 5 comments

f@*g surface tension... how does that work?

Which substance is more efficient at destroying water surface tension: detergent or oil? This would be for a hypothetical trap for pest insects.
posted by crapmatic at 4:36 PM PST - 14 comments

Earache my eye

I have a constant, low-grade headache. Help. [more inside]
posted by littlerobothead at 4:32 PM PST - 23 comments

What Happened To the Descendants of Famous Historical Figures?

Are there any published works that attempt to trace the descendants of famous historical figures, especially those we read about in ancient history? For example, Cleopatra had children by Julius Ceasar and Marc Antony. One of her daughters was married off to Jubal, king of Numidia and Mauretania. What became of their children? Looked at another way, who among those alive today can trace their lineage to the most distant dates? Royal families would seem to have the advantage here, but not necessarily.
posted by justcorbly at 4:32 PM PST - 31 comments

Is this the one that got away?

I think I screwed up a phone interview. How can I make a rebound (if possible?) [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:14 PM PST - 8 comments

Origin of "Make Me A Chicken Pot Pie"

What is the earliest occurrence of the phrase "make me a chicken pot pie"? [more inside]
posted by crapples at 3:45 PM PST - 8 comments

Jazzy love songs

I am looking for an upbeat jazz song for a couple’s first dance at their wedding. Themes of true love, love at first sight, etc are preferable. [more inside]
posted by elationfoundation at 3:43 PM PST - 25 comments

Should I stay or should I go?

Last month, I started a new job at a local college. Today, I was offered a higher-paying position at a different college. Logically, I know I should take the new position, but it's not that easy. How can I reconcile my ethical and financial needs? If I decide to stay, how can I supplement my current income? If I decide to take the new job, what's the best way to let my employer know? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 3:32 PM PST - 25 comments

IT hardware advice for non-profit

Medium sized non-profit looking to purchase new Hardware to run Sage MIP accounting software for 5 users. Any recommendations on type of hardware to buy for value: does one need a "server" these days for this type of situation or will a desktop work? How about reliable easy back-up options?
posted by dougiedd at 3:24 PM PST - 4 comments

Where can I buy some gag gift items in San Francisco?

Where can I buy some gag gifts in San Francisco? I need an hourglass, a gavel, and a superhero cape! I realize I may not be able to get these all in one place. I'm sure I can find a costume shop for the superhero cape, but I have no idea where to look for the other two. I need a prop store or something!
posted by autojack at 3:24 PM PST - 10 comments

How can I fix a Toyota Sienna's rear liftgate which will not close?

My dad has a 2004 Toyota Sienna which he takes very good care of. He was picking something up very recently and a meaning-to-be-helpful person went to shut the rear door for him (the rear liftgate). This person didn't realize that it would close itself and he tried to force it. Since this happened when my dad pulls the door to engage the power door function, the door beeps like normal, comes down part way and then reverses and opens back up (as if it has hit something, engaging the safety switch). The only way you can get it to close is to turn off the power to the door and close it manually. Does anyone know of something he can do to fix it? [more inside]
posted by Original 1928 Flavor at 3:05 PM PST - 4 comments

I want to be less consumed by bitterness

How do I learn to let things wash over me and become a less bitter person generally in life? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:26 PM PST - 29 comments

Am I free yet?

Subpoena me now / subpoena me later. If I have not yet gotten dragged into a civil suit that was filed more than a month ago, am I safe? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:24 PM PST - 13 comments

How to properly tell a story with pictures

Tips for creating a comic book? [more inside]
posted by Kirk Grim at 2:21 PM PST - 21 comments

How to add wiki to facebook

How do I add a Wikipedia tab to Facebook? [more inside]
posted by Thrillhouse at 2:15 PM PST - 3 comments

Want to buy Medicine Cabinet in Store not online!

All i want to do is be able to go to a store and buy a medicine cabinet... where can i do this in the Los Angeles area? I am in Culver City and all I can find is Home Depot and they have crap!
posted by matthelm at 2:12 PM PST - 12 comments

iPhone app to track where I've been

I'm looking for an iPhone app that lets me 'check in' wherever I go. I don't want something like FourSquare, or Gowalla that makes all that information public, but instead something that allows me to see on a map all the places I've been over time. Does such a thing exist? I guess I'm looking for something a bit like Momento, but with maps. To clarify, not a GPS tracking app for runs, biking, etc, but something more long term, where I can run the app and log the fact that I've been to certain locations.
posted by oxide at 1:48 PM PST - 16 comments

Desiring Digital C!

Looking for a good, reasonably priced digital cameras for filming 10 minute segments. [more inside]
posted by goalyeehah at 1:46 PM PST - 5 comments

Iphone4 browser taking me back in time. Please help.

When I hit the "back" arrow/button on my Iphone4's browser I am more often than not taken back to an older, previously viewed version of the site and not the last/latest page that I was viewing. Like it's going back in time to a cached page. How do I stop this? It is very annoying.
posted by mbx at 1:33 PM PST - 5 comments

If It's Tuesday, This Must Be The Road to Misery and Divorce

My job is slowly demanding more and more travel. This puts a lot of stress on my family. Any suggestions for making it easier on them and me? [more inside]
posted by These Premises Are Alarmed at 1:32 PM PST - 15 comments

What are options for a 12k credit card debt my gf has?

My girlfriend recently found out her parents will be getting a divorce. She just graduated undergrad but still lives at home. She also has college debt that she's trying to pay off so she could move out. However the mother is looking to move out of state and she doesn't want to go with her. [more inside]
posted by PetiePal at 1:31 PM PST - 30 comments

Recommend a bike for around town and a little bit beyond.

Does this bike seem like a good choice for me? I need to buy a new bike and want to be sure it's a match. [more inside]
posted by circular at 1:22 PM PST - 19 comments

I can build it, I just need to know what kind of bricks.

[web programming filter] I need to build a web page that displays spreadsheet data. The data in the spreadsheet changes depending on which user is logged in to the site. Some of the data is preset and some is entered by the user (and saved between sessions). What might be the most efficient programming solution and the easiest to maintain? [more inside]
posted by Drasher at 1:18 PM PST - 8 comments

The realism of The Wire Season 2

I'm currently in the process of rewatching The Wire for the third time, and there is something that has been bugging me about season two for a long time (there are no real spoilers in this question, btw). The second season is thematically all about "the death of the American blue-collar worker", in this case the stevedores working at Baltimore harbor. But this doesn't ring true to me. I mean, yes, American industrial production is plummeting in favor of countries with cheaper labor (like China), but doesn't that mean that the US has to import more stuff? And clearly it is. And most of those imports comes in by boat. So why isn't the harbor be prospering? [more inside]
posted by gkhan at 1:09 PM PST - 32 comments

Endocrinologist advice

Total noob here. I'd like to find a friendly/thorough endocrinologist in the Twin Cities, Minnesota, and I'd also like to hear general advice about getting thyroid/hormones tested. [more inside]
posted by TheClonusHorror at 1:08 PM PST - 4 comments

A coronal mass ejection question.

What are the odds that I'll see the northern lights? [more inside]
posted by cirrostratus at 1:06 PM PST - 6 comments

Hiring a web designer for my small business

The small business I work for wants a new website. I'm in charge of finding the people to overhaul it. I've never done this before. I don't want to be the Client from Hell, but I also don't want my inexperience to accidentally screw over the company. Help! Details inside. [more inside]
posted by Laura Macbeth at 1:05 PM PST - 14 comments

How to connect two wireless routers to a single cable modem?

How can I connect two wireless routers (Fonera first generation and Apple Airport Express) to a single cable modem through an ethernet hub to establish two separate networks? I am able to connect one or the other to the cable modem through the ethernet hub, but I cannot connect both. Both wireless routers have only a single ethernet port. I currently have Comcast as my ISP, if that helps.
posted by eden at 12:59 PM PST - 9 comments

aggghhh

Internet Problem where I can't access most websites. Please help because I am pulling my hair out. (Do I have a virus?) [more inside]
posted by bluelight at 12:52 PM PST - 10 comments

My cats breath smells like...burning?

Kitty filter: My vet has diagnosed my cat with stomatitis, and has strongly recommended that she get her back teeth pulled. Has anyone had a cat that has experienced this? [more inside]
posted by Maude_the_destroyer at 12:51 PM PST - 14 comments

Resources about Cuban Missile Crisis for the high school classroom?

I'm looking for high-school-appropriate resources about the Cuban Missile Crisis--particularly ones that highlight Cuban and Soviet perspectives or more of an IR approach. Any thoughts?
posted by lily_bart at 12:30 PM PST - 4 comments

Wooden piano chord striker video?

Help me find this video. A pianist performing a piece containing several chords which require large hands. As he does not have large hands, for each such occasion an assistant throws him a piece of wood with cleverly spaced dowelling attached, that he can press against the keys to play the right notes all at once. [more inside]
posted by louigi at 12:21 PM PST - 9 comments

How can I monitor and manage my data usage on the HTC Aria?

How can I monitor and manage my data usage on my HTC Aria with Android 2.1? [more inside]
posted by Faint of Butt at 12:14 PM PST - 5 comments

Why Can't Johnny Read?

I don't read much anymore, and I don't like it. I used to read a lot (roughly a book a week), but my reading for pleasure has dropped at least 75% in the last dozen years. What have I replaced it with? Video games (large and small) and the internet; both of which give me fizzy short-term satisfaction, but with far less long term. Help me get my respectable hobby back.
posted by rtimmel at 11:59 AM PST - 42 comments

How do I attach the social network to the personal contact?

AndroidFilter: How do I link certain contacts in my contactbook to their Facebook profiles or Twitter pages... when the names don't match? [more inside]
posted by smitt at 11:42 AM PST - 2 comments

Please help me decide where to spend 4 nights in Tuscany.

Please help me decide where to spend 4 nights in Tuscany. [more inside]
posted by kdern at 11:28 AM PST - 10 comments

Lemon Curry?

Cupboards Are Bare: So I have a plan to make a Korma curry from some leftover chicken. Fine, but I also have half a box of lemons that are going to off if I don't use them soon. How can I use them in a Korma sauce without turning it into Lemon-scented Pledge? Or use them in a side-dish? Or even What Do I Do With All These Lemons? [more inside]
posted by The Whelk at 11:23 AM PST - 22 comments

How to manually increment an integer value in a SQL Server 2005 database table?

How would you handle "manually" incrementing the value of this integer field in SQL Server 2005? [more inside]
posted by trunk muffins at 11:10 AM PST - 7 comments

Oh, the places I'll go...

Travel-filter: I'm leaving for Europe in less than a month, and I feel wildly unprepared. [more inside]
posted by karminai at 10:51 AM PST - 18 comments

Help me find a bag for a 20" laptop.

I need a chic bag for a really really big laptop. Google has failed me. [more inside]
posted by Thin Lizzy at 10:06 AM PST - 21 comments

How can a non-computer-savvy person safely navigate malware-ridden sites?

How can a non-computer-savvy person safely navigate malware-ridden sites? [more inside]
posted by adipocere at 10:04 AM PST - 9 comments

Completely changing course and doing something different. Is it practical and will it lead to happiness, or is it just escapist naivety?

Completely changing course and doing something different. Is it practical and will it lead to happiness, or is it just escapist naivety? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:43 AM PST - 34 comments

Software patents are evil

The license system used by my company supposedly infringes a patent. Help me find some examples of similar license systems which existed before the patent was granted. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:42 AM PST - 14 comments

Something Fishy About This

Should pescatarians eat frogs? What about turtles or alligator? [more inside]
posted by Panjandrum at 9:42 AM PST - 30 comments

How to find PacBell switching stations around LA

I am looking for a list of Pacific Telephone/Pacific Bell switching stations that were built before the 1980s around Los Angeles County. I want to do a series of photographic portraits of them. It seems like this information may be "suppressed for reasons of homeland security" but if anyone had any suggestions of where I may be able to dig it up archivally, it would be much appreciated!
posted by refractal at 9:38 AM PST - 4 comments

Something something natural? What song is this?

What this song I'm thinking of? 70s-sounding easy listening/R&B/soul, sung by a woman, something about being natural - but it's not Aretha Franklin's (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman. It's well-known, but I just can't bring a thing about it to mind!
posted by two or three cars parked under the stars at 9:31 AM PST - 11 comments

Help me see my dad one more (l/ast?) time?

Trying to book one-way international flights on a week's notice... [more inside]
posted by mustard seeds at 9:15 AM PST - 11 comments

Looking for a New Board Game

Every year on our family vacation my wife, step-son and mother in law all play board games into the night. Last year they really enjoyed Coda, but feel like they are all too predictable now. We're leaving for vacation soon and now my wife is scrambling to find a new game, similar in style to Coda. [more inside]
posted by Otis at 9:05 AM PST - 16 comments

Does this car have enough oomph?

Any European mefites driving the 1.4L petrol Ford Focus? I am thinking at 80PS it might be underpowered. [more inside]
posted by Dr Dracator at 9:03 AM PST - 6 comments

Because New York City needs another therapist

I'm interested in becoming a certified therapist. What's the easiest way to do this? What books should I pick up to get an idea of various practices? What are the most reliable ways to get training? [more inside]
posted by zoomorphic at 9:03 AM PST - 22 comments

If your life had a face, I would punch it in the balls

Other graphic novels like Scott Pilgrim. Can you recommend them to me? [more inside]
posted by aparrish at 8:50 AM PST - 21 comments

A few bugs with the jailbreak

Would someone please help me with my cydia/jailbreakme problems? iPhone 3GS, mc version, 4.0 [more inside]
posted by By The Grace of God at 8:08 AM PST - 9 comments

Help me have orgasms pain-free!

NSFW: Help me have orgasms pain-free! [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:56 AM PST - 7 comments

I'm only guessing it was a DIY store because it looked like a house...

Which French company (probably a DIY store) used to use this logo - difficulty: it was probably in the 1980s and I haven't got a picture of it... [more inside]
posted by sodium lights the horizon at 7:40 AM PST - 14 comments

What benefits do gay New Yorkers married out of state receive?

What additional rights do out of state gay marriages give for New Yorkers? [more inside]
posted by reticulatedspline at 7:35 AM PST - 3 comments

What are best practices for coding and testing a website prior to launch.

I've made websites for myself - Now I'm going to be making them for others, and need to know the best way to code and test their sites prior to launching them on my client's domains. [more inside]
posted by bonsai forest at 7:25 AM PST - 11 comments

Would you use a brand name in a URL?

If you were selling a product at (fictional example) socialnetworkmarketing.com, would you buy facebookmarketing.com and twittermarketing.com to just redirect to socialnetworkmarketing.com? [more inside]
posted by smersh at 7:19 AM PST - 4 comments

2010 Census - what have we learned so far?

2010 Census - what have we learned so far? [more inside]
posted by looknevada at 7:07 AM PST - 3 comments

No more hospital bed

How to get a sex life back after illness? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:06 AM PST - 12 comments

A game about herding an animal; done? how should it be done?

I have an idea for a real-life game involving herding animals. Has this been done? and how should it be done? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:05 AM PST - 23 comments

What was the life of a British girl really like?

How can I learn about life as a normal British girl from the mid 1800s on through to the 1960s? [more inside]
posted by Mizu at 6:57 AM PST - 18 comments

Knowledgebase creation for small companies

How can a small company create a knowledgebase for use internally as well as externally by clients. [more inside]
posted by diode at 6:45 AM PST - 5 comments

Finding a good outsourcer for website changes/design/marketing?

How to outsource to a good integrative website marketing/design firm or individual? Or please provide your personal recommendations. [more inside]
posted by chinabound at 6:32 AM PST - 5 comments

Ok to use damaged bottle?

I am emotionally attached to an old Sigg aluminum drinking water bottle (ie, I've had it for many years). But now it's badly dented. Is it still safe to use? The metal is unbroken, but I'm concerned that any kind of coating on the inside may be cracked/compromised. Any advice please from water bottle gurus.
posted by Xhris at 6:31 AM PST - 16 comments

Die die die

How do I remove/kill forsythia roots to prepare for new planting? [more inside]
posted by sixpack at 6:19 AM PST - 3 comments

Sci-fi movie tech in the real world

I want one of those monitors you see in movies that are a piece of glass that you can see through. They invariably have maps on them, and are touch screen. Awesome. Is this even possible?
posted by basil1 at 6:09 AM PST - 10 comments

No-Go Video?

Help me preserve memories and save money... I have several old VHS home movies I'm trying to digitize so I can preserve them and edit together the good parts. I used a GoVideo machine to create DVDs that are playable. But I can't copy the DVD files to my PC or otherwise rip them. I sent one of my tapes to a company and their DVD copies to my PC and into my movie editor without a hitch. What gives? Do I have to suck up the cost and send the rest in to the service? Anything I might be doing wrong?
posted by timnyc at 6:01 AM PST - 5 comments

How do I reply to 'How are you?' in a medical context?

When I go to see my specialists at the hospital when I walk in they always ask: 'How are you?' How should I respond? [more inside]
posted by Nufkin at 5:32 AM PST - 20 comments

Free, Creative Commons music that is danceable

Free, Creative Commons music that is danceable, esp. techno, electronica! [more inside]
posted by ts;dr at 4:44 AM PST - 9 comments

Can we be happy without an entertainment line item in our budget?

Can we be happy without an entertainment line item in our budget? [more inside]
posted by Wuggie Norple at 4:36 AM PST - 22 comments

Van Gogh Museum or Kröller-Müller Museum?

So, we will be in Holland for a couple of weeks and I need a Van Gogh fix, but I don't want to overdose. If I was only to go to one Van Gogh museum, which would you recommend: the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam or the Kröller-Müller Museum in Hoge Veluwe National Park? [more inside]
posted by oclipa at 4:35 AM PST - 11 comments

What is love (love)? Baby don't hurt me...(Hideo) Nomo.

Is my girlfriend's behavior incongruent? [more inside]
posted by Mach3avelli at 4:34 AM PST - 55 comments

Herpes -- When to Tell?

New relationship and herpes: When to tell? [more inside]
posted by IKnittedThisSockPuppetMyself at 4:31 AM PST - 10 comments

Veggies are weird.

FoodFilter: Help me learn if I like kale, swiss chard, and maybe even turnips. [more inside]
posted by Heretical at 4:06 AM PST - 43 comments

Tips for getting an appraisal

I'm looking to refinance my home and with the rough housing market over the last couple years, the appraisal is going to be close. Is there anything a homeowner can do to positively influence the appraiser? I googled it and came up with clean up the yard and house. What else?
posted by WhiteWhale at 3:42 AM PST - 10 comments

What shouldn't I miss in Tokyo and Kyoto?

Next week, I'm going to be in Tokyo for a few days and then Kyoto for another day or two. What shouldn't I miss? [more inside]
posted by kyrademon at 2:39 AM PST - 10 comments

Chill out song?

Trying to find a hip hop/acid jazz song that I heard on Qatar radio recently. It had rap and some Robbie Williams vocals. It may have the lyrics "chill out". That's all I have to go by.
posted by pinkkitty at 2:31 AM PST - 1 comment

Yup, another book-recommendation post.

Now that I finally have some free time on my hands (research proposal is in, huzzah!) I'm looking for something to read that is not affiliated with my degree. The academic in me adores footnotes in fiction. Also, books that blend genres, and particularly ones that feature strange/big cities. I usually read urban fantasy/weird/new weird/steampunk. The following elements make me take notice: magic, science, esotericism, religion, myth, historical influence. Not a big fan of comedy. [more inside]
posted by New England Cultist at 2:13 AM PST - 45 comments

Please reccomend me some solar PV monitoring equipment..

Please reccomend me some solar PV monitoring equipment.. [more inside]
posted by sockpim at 1:26 AM PST - 5 comments

Training a dog

Help me house and leash train this lost/stray dog. [more inside]
posted by woolylambkin at 12:57 AM PST - 9 comments

Bus route from Kent Washington to Des Moines Washington

Which bus would take me from East Valley Highway and 180th in Kent Washington to S 234th Street in Des Moines Washington at ten p.m. on weekdays and weekends (if possible)? The metro website hasn't been very helpful so any other sources will be very much appreciated. Thanks
posted by saran-han at 12:14 AM PST - 2 comments

August 2

3 weeks in South America, for noobs. What to do?

Planning a trip to South America. Only have 3 to 4 weeks max for the entire holiday. We will be flying in from Australia so will be coming in and out of Buenos Aires, and are keen to see as much of Argentina and Brazil as possible. I feel like I know next to nothing else other than the continent is huge and I have nowhere near enough time. Hive mind, help me plan the best possible itinerary! Tips and stories highly encouraged. [more inside]
posted by arha at 11:44 PM PST - 7 comments

Picture and sound from laptop into TV?

How can I get picture and sound to go through my laptop into my TV? [more inside]
posted by smorange at 11:20 PM PST - 17 comments

Help me pick a great tv.

Where can I find authoritative reviews of flat screen tvs? [more inside]
posted by digividal at 10:33 PM PST - 11 comments

Women's suits in Los Angeles or San Francisco?

Best place to buy women's suits in Los Angeles or San Francisco? [more inside]
posted by kingjoeshmoe at 10:30 PM PST - 12 comments

Downloading Only Some Messages from Gmail. Possible?

Is there a way to download one folder of mail from gmail to an outside client, say apple mall, without downloading all the messages I have in gmail? [more inside]
posted by tejolote at 10:29 PM PST - 5 comments

Less money, more fun

I've recently come to realize that my job isn't fulfilling or challenging, and is making me depressed and helping ruin my personal relationships. Should I stay at this job and be unhappy but well-compensated, or leave and make half as much but possibly be happy? [more inside]
posted by MonsieurBon at 8:45 PM PST - 28 comments

It is so connected. It's *always* connected.

Can Windows be persuaded to ignore lies the BIOS tells it about what video monitors are connected? [more inside]
posted by flabdablet at 8:32 PM PST - 8 comments

Health insurance reform

Aetna recently contacted my parents saying that because they provide less than 50% of my financial support, I am no longer eligible to be a dependent on the family health insurance plan. However, the new legislation passed by Congress seems to say that I can stay on the plan until I am 26. Can anyone clear up this confusion? [more inside]
posted by Aanidaani at 8:12 PM PST - 16 comments

Poetic compounds

What are some clever, figurative, poetic English or German compounds? [more inside]
posted by ms.codex at 8:05 PM PST - 30 comments

Wedding Song Search

We're putting together a playlist of older, romantic, fun songs (that's amore, fly me to the moon, baby its cold outside, etc) for our wedding. There's a song I've heard once on pandora, but can't seem to find now. 40s or 50s era sound, sort of swingy, female singer, all I remember was the lyrics were a list of places, followed by "but I love to be with you" - or something very similar. ie "I love the beach, I love the sand... but I love to be with you." Does anyone know what it was? (And any other suggestions for songs happily received!)
posted by korej at 7:52 PM PST - 32 comments

If it's too good to be true...

Why would Wells Fargo call me to refinance to a lower interest rate? What's in it for them? [more inside]
posted by spicynuts at 7:49 PM PST - 21 comments

Short Sell- Quick Sell

What should I know as a potential first time home buyer looking at buying a short sell property direct from a bank? My parents have happily lived in the same condo/apartment in Honolulu for over 15 years. Recently, a real estate "friend" of theirs said there is a unit in the same apartment which is going for very cheap because it is a short sell... key word is " real estate friend". My parents said it would be a great investment, but they have never been too good with research and finances and drawn in by storytelling of so called friends and sensational people. Are there any tips on what I should watch out for or anything I should know beforehand before plunging into this? [more inside]
posted by peachtree at 7:48 PM PST - 7 comments

Laserdisc player repair place recommendations? (in USA)

Laserdisc player repair place recommendations? (in USA) [more inside]
posted by InsertNiftyNameHere at 7:34 PM PST - 8 comments

Verizon: "God can't hear you, Mr. Plarfegan."

Droid Eris stopped sending/receiving picture messages, now sends/receives infuriating one-photo slideshows. How might one change it back? [more inside]
posted by herbplarfegan at 7:30 PM PST - 3 comments

Blower motor resistor or worse? Did you mean 'power motormite rotor'?

If my 2001 Honda Accord's blower motor resistor goes out, should I expect the air conditioner not to come on at all, or is there something more seriously wrong with the car than just the resistor? [more inside]
posted by tybstar at 7:15 PM PST - 3 comments

Where to find African eggplant (bitterball, kittely)?

Looking for fresh African eggplant (bitterball, kittely) in the Boston area. I've tried Russo's in Waltham, but I haven't found it there. Would actually prefer the dried form, which I expect could be ordered online if I could just find someone who carries it. Any West African cooks or lovers of African food out there who can help me out?
posted by Sia Stewart at 7:14 PM PST - 6 comments

CROSSFIRE!

What are the best places on the web to discuss politics that are well moderated to maintain courtesy, encourage debate to be logical and well supported, and have good rates of participation from both sides of the political spectrum?
posted by furiousxgeorge at 6:54 PM PST - 18 comments

Help me wrangle Wordpress categories

How can I make Wordpress.com posts show up as full text instead of summary in category links? [more inside]
posted by hansbrough at 6:51 PM PST - 7 comments

Collecting Rare Books

I'm interested in rare books. What can you tell me about collecting them? [more inside]
posted by Despondent_Monkey at 5:56 PM PST - 18 comments

Digging yourself out of a mental hole.

I'm in a hole, and I keep digging. I'm behind on numerous things, and I just bury my head until problems become unbearable. Help me pull some dirt into this hole (without me in it) and lay down some concrete so this doesn't happen again. [more inside]
posted by SNWidget at 5:20 PM PST - 40 comments

How does an "exclusive buyer's agent" get paid?

How does an "exclusive buyer's agent" (for real estate) get paid? [more inside]
posted by Joleta at 5:08 PM PST - 10 comments

Can you help me navigate Loudon Wainwright III's discography?

Which of Loudon Wainwright III's albums tend more to the lo-fi folk-y and less to the plugged in country sound? I'm not a huge fan of synth drums and choral backing, but I think he's an amazing songwriter and would love some help figuring out which of his many, many albums are to my taste. Any similar sounding recommendations would be awesome as well! [more inside]
posted by libertypie at 4:56 PM PST - 9 comments

Making "ambient" music on my MacBook? (Or, what's new in computer music toys since 1993?)

I'm curious about making "ambient" music (in the Brian Eno sense of the word, not the slow, druggy IDM sense) on a recent-ish Macintosh, without dropping a lot of money on software or hardware. The catch: I haven't payed the slightest bit of attention to computer music technology since the early 90s. Musicians of MeFi, bring me up to date! What do I need to know / use / hear / read / try? [more inside]
posted by nebulawindphone at 4:33 PM PST - 23 comments

We're just not going to the bathroom together. Ever.

What can I look forward to as my relationship continues? [more inside]
posted by teraspawn at 4:20 PM PST - 48 comments

She's great. Everything between us is great. This froofy church is not.

I'm an atheist and a skeptic. She's been dabbling with a kooky New Age church. This bothers me. How do I approach this situation? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:07 PM PST - 66 comments

unemployment claim: what happens if I didn't apply for any jobs?

I browsed for but didn't apply to any jobs during the first two weeks of my unemployment claim because I was in a bit of a funk. I'm applying to jobs now. Need advice on filling out the biweekly claim form to send to the unemployment office (or other general advice) so I don't jeopardize the whole claim. This is in California. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:06 PM PST - 8 comments

Kundalini, what are you doing to me?

How do I focus on yoga in stead of the hot guy next to me? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:06 PM PST - 21 comments

Help me find "meta" capabilities for my primitive wiki?

Help a non-programmer with some meta-wiki capabilities. How can I easily create a map/list of all pages on a wiki? How can I generate stats analysis on stuff like backlinking, etc? And how can I export the entire wiki to one offline file in a way that does a reasonable job of preserving the format? (specifics follow...) [more inside]
posted by cross_impact at 3:49 PM PST - 4 comments

How can I make my photos larger on blogger.com?

How can I make my photos larger on blogger.com?
posted by tangyraspberry at 3:47 PM PST - 2 comments

What can I use to cover the faces of oil paintings that are being stored flat?

I'm looking for thin sheets of a material that I can use to cover a series of oil paintings stacked flat, which won't react to the paint itself and will prevent them from sticking or bonding to anything else. [more inside]
posted by $0up at 3:41 PM PST - 9 comments

I'm Leaving For China With No Plans: I Need Some Plans!

My son wants me to ride trains and hike with him, starting this weekend, all over China. He says he wants to leave Beijing (I arrive exhausted on Thursday night) on Sunday and go, over the next 17 days, to visit Xuchang, Xi'an, Chengdu, Jiuzhaigou, Kunming, Tiger Leaping Gorge, Guilin, Yangshou, Suzhou, and FengHuang; then back to Beijing so I can go home. Can we do it? We have no itinerary. Shouldn't this be pared down? Where should we go? What travel websites can I use on my iPhone or at internet cafes? How can I find cheap airfare within China, with no advance reservations, and do it on the fly? This post is as "quick and dirty" as is my planning. Now, I have to get back to packing ultralight for monsoon territory. I'm too old for this, but am excited! [more inside]
posted by swlabr at 3:33 PM PST - 12 comments

Refrigerator help

Refrigerator question. [more inside]
posted by DTHEASH1 at 3:27 PM PST - 4 comments

Fecking 3D glasses: Why don't they work they way I expected?

I thought I knew how the current crop of 3D glasses worked, but an experiment with my glasses and my laptop screen proved that something weird is going on. Why does the direction I'm looking through the glasses change what I see, and why do the polarising filters appear to be oriented the same way? [more inside]
posted by metaBugs at 3:05 PM PST - 7 comments

Can't talk -huge rubber thingy balanced in my ear.

What bluetooth headset are comfortable for someone with small ears? Previous questions are old, or Mac/iPhone. [more inside]
posted by kellyblah at 3:04 PM PST - 7 comments

I forgot to study abroad.

I'm about to graduate and I never studied abroad. I'd like to change that. [more inside]
posted by good day merlock at 2:50 PM PST - 14 comments

Detail painting on muslin?

I want to do a painting or drawing of a fantasy map on muslin, but I don't know which materials I should use or how I should prime or seal the cloth. What materials can I use to ensure the best durability/prevent possible damage from getting wet while retaining the ability to do detail work? [more inside]
posted by runaway ballista at 2:48 PM PST - 7 comments

Interior design school gift options?

What gift should I get an individual that graduated from an interior design school? [more inside]
posted by birdlips at 2:40 PM PST - 3 comments

Advice for moving to Boston

I am seriously looking into moving to Boston. I would like to be in the city as much as possible while paying less than $1400/mo rent for at least one bedroom. I would like to be able to have a dog and park my car. (I might not drive it around Boston much, but would like to be able to use it to leave the city) I work at home. I was looking in the Brookline area or on Commonwealth between Boston College and Fenway. Any advice would be great!
posted by jillmerk at 2:26 PM PST - 31 comments

But he hasn't seen my college campus!

What's the easiest way for my husband and I to visit my family in the US? [more inside]
posted by bardophile at 2:08 PM PST - 12 comments

How do you know if it's worth pursuing?

I am now in a living situation where I live with a bunch of friends. I was always close friends with one of the girls (for about a year) and one night we cuddled. It led to some more cuddling for a few nights but it bothered me. Not because I didn't like it but because I'm the type that wants things to be clear. I've always been in the mindset that if I like a girl, I will pursue her and make it clear to her. Leaving things unclear can lead to messy relationships/breakups/fights and hurt feelings in the end. [more inside]
posted by Wanderer7 at 1:21 PM PST - 28 comments

Does my employer owe me 401(k) contributions that they forgot to take?

Does my employer have to make elective 401(k) contributions for me if they messed up and didn't take any deductions from my paycheck this year? If so, how much? (You are not my HR professional or ERISA lawyer.) [more inside]
posted by Duluth?! I Hardly Know Her! at 1:16 PM PST - 10 comments

To infinity and... where, exactly?

I'm an innovative thinker who got stuck in an engineering box. I'm about to get kicked out of the box. Can you help me find a new box? [more inside]
posted by w00bliette at 1:09 PM PST - 8 comments

Which to adopt from: No-kill or "kill" shelters?

No-kill vs. kill shelter: is one more "right" to adopt from? [more inside]
posted by DingoMutt at 1:00 PM PST - 25 comments

iPhone app to open and edit Excel documents

iPhoneAppFilter: I have an Excel document on my home computer that I would like to be able to open and edit on my iPhone while I'm out and about, on an ongoing basis. The catch: app needs to be able to handle "index" and "match" functions. Without this functionality, the app would be useless to me. List of previous disappointments: DropBox (can't edit), QuickOffice (interfaces with DropBox but can't do index/match functions), Calc Lite (can't open document). I have zero programming skills and not that much more cash. Is my dream app (or combination of apps) out there?
posted by shortskirtlongjacket at 12:47 PM PST - 8 comments

Should I buy a factory unlocked iPhone?

Should I buy an unlocked iPhone or remain indentured? [more inside]
posted by Gortuk at 12:39 PM PST - 5 comments

Fun, laid-back things to do on Kaua'i?

What are some fun, laid-back things to do on Kaua'i? [more inside]
posted by sleepinglion at 12:38 PM PST - 15 comments

safe for work photo blogs

what are good work safe photo blogs that work well on ancient browsers (so light on the ajax/flash/2.0 sort of stuff)? [more inside]
posted by nadawi at 12:35 PM PST - 8 comments

Looking for an original "Justification for Higher Education" poster

JUSTIFICATION FOR HIGHER EDUCATION... the original poster. If you grew up in the 80s and 90s, you probably saw this poster at the local book fair. Does anyone know where I can find the original version of this poster? [more inside]
posted by bjork24 at 12:16 PM PST - 10 comments

Life in 19th c. rural Scotland?

Life in 19th century rural Scotland - tell me more about the "home farm". [more inside]
posted by John Borrowman at 12:05 PM PST - 4 comments

Herniated L5/S1, sciatic pain, what should I do?

I was rear-ended 9 months ago and now have a herniated L5/S1 with associated issues (sciatica, back pain). My doctor wants me to get an epidural injection of corticosteroids. Is this really my best option? [more inside]
posted by buckaroo_benzai at 11:56 AM PST - 24 comments

Out Stealing Horses

I don't understand a seemingly important part of "Out Stealing Horses" by Per Petterson. On p. 198, Trond says, "In real life I have not had the courage to ask Lars the obvious question: 'Did you take the place that was rightfully mine? Did you have years out of my life that I should have lived?'" If someone has read the book and can explain what Trond means here, I'd be grateful!
posted by wisekaren at 11:47 AM PST - 4 comments

How can I keep myself busy in SF on a very tight budget?

What should I do with a month of free time in the San Francisco Bay area? [more inside]
posted by keelyellenmarie at 11:24 AM PST - 8 comments

SQEAK CLUNK

AutomotiveFilter: Please help me diagnose this squeak in my 99 Ford F150. [more inside]
posted by werkzeuger at 11:23 AM PST - 5 comments

Can you suggest a good base for some hiking in Switzerland?

Can you suggest a good base for some hiking in Switzerland? [more inside]
posted by Mngo at 11:15 AM PST - 5 comments

Has anyone built TradeBook.com?

Has anyone built a social networking website to facilitate region-to-region and international trade? [more inside]
posted by beagle at 11:03 AM PST - 4 comments

How to attend Burning Man while avoiding the sun?

I really don't like the sun. I would like to go to Burning Man. How do I make this happen? [more inside]
posted by the jam at 11:02 AM PST - 14 comments

Hi, I'm your boss. Don't like it? Too bad!

I was hired for a newly created management position at a company. The position that was eliminated to create this position used to indirectly report to one of my employees, weirdness and hurt feelings ensue. [more inside]
posted by Zophi at 10:44 AM PST - 10 comments

Educational Media

Can you recommend some great educational media for my nearly two year old daughter? I am looking for good DVD's, computer / iPhone software, or websites that I can load up for 30-60 minutes a day. I would like something she can learn from, but if she is having fun, that is cool as well. Right now she is a Dora and Diego addict. I just got her a few LeapFrog preschool DVD's that she loves. She can sing her ABC's and can count to 10 in English and Spanish. She is just starting to be able to answer "How does the letter A, B, C, etc. go?' She knows how to flip pages and push buttons on the iPhone. Are there any computer learning games that a two year old could handle. Flash games? iPhone games? Answers to this question do not involve telling me to take my daughter outside. I am familiar with the debunking of Baby Einstein. I would just like to find some good stuff for her to watch, play or interact with. General toy recommendations are good as well.
posted by jasondigitized at 10:21 AM PST - 25 comments

Please help me find a short film about a lunch

I'm looking for the name of a short film about an older European couple having an afternoon meal - think "afternoon tea". It could have been from a short film compilation from the 80's. The whole thing takes place in a large, old-fashioned kitchen. A man with a big mustache comes in and sits at the table. The woman organizes a meal and sets it in front of him over the first five minutes or so. He starts to eat, while she finishes up a few things. She pours a cup of tea (hmm - I might be adding this part) and sits down and watches him eat. There's no dialog. I always had the impression that the people were English or Scandinavian, but I don't know why. I'm also pretty sure they are/were real people that somebody filmed - the whole thing is so natural and detailed... For whatever reason, this whole scene has stuck with me for many years, and the wry humour of it is something I'd like my kids to see. Any ideas? [more inside]
posted by sneebler at 10:21 AM PST - 2 comments

Activities for a one year old tourist in San Francisco

San Francisco with a toddler? [more inside]
posted by madajb at 10:12 AM PST - 16 comments

Help two lifelong dreamers plan their honeymoon in the future, AKA Tokyo!

[TokyoFilter]: Planning a November honeymoon in Tokyo. Help two non-Japanese speaking USians who have dreamed of visiting Tokyo their entire lives figure out what's worth planning/reserving/paying for and what's not -- arigato in advance! [more inside]
posted by Unicorn on the cob at 10:07 AM PST - 22 comments

Carpet drying question.

What is the best way to dry recently "steam cleaned" carpets on a humid day? Should I leave the windows open or close them and put the a/c on? [more inside]
posted by Rad_Boy at 9:57 AM PST - 6 comments

Posterous or Tumblr?

Which one should I use -- Tumblr or Posterous? [more inside]
posted by zooropa at 9:51 AM PST - 10 comments

Basic audio interface for Intel iMac

I do occasional audio recording with GarageBand. I just recently upgraded from a G4 tower to an Intel iMac w/Snow Leopard. I settled for analog audio in through the mic input on the G4 but I think I want to step up to digital input. I have an analog mixer, tube preamps, effects pedals, etc. so I don't need to have them in the audio interface. Midi I/O would also be nice but not necessary. What are my choices in a basic 2-channel Firewire(800)/USB(2.0) audio interface?
posted by tommasz at 9:46 AM PST - 5 comments

Excel filter: Nearest neighbor identification.

Excel filter: Nearest neighbor identification. Do I need a UDF? [more inside]
posted by sisquoc15 at 9:34 AM PST - 8 comments

Bulk branded webcams?

Where can I purchase webcams in bulk with my logo on them? [more inside]
posted by shotgunbooty at 9:27 AM PST - 4 comments

Being paranoid about antibiotics.

Antibiotic advice: Doxycycline/Tetracyclines (teeth?) and how many to take? Also, any experiences with identifying a sore/tender bump? [more inside]
posted by mattkh at 9:13 AM PST - 14 comments

I just want our kid to wake up in the morning and walk out on the back porch and find me cobbling.

Do cobblers still exist? I'm looking for someone who will make me a pair of sandals based on a falling-apart pair I already own. [more inside]
posted by thehmsbeagle at 9:09 AM PST - 18 comments

Car insurance costs half the car? (UK)

Why am I quoted £1k + to insure a £2k car? (UK only) [more inside]
posted by KMH at 8:41 AM PST - 23 comments

I'm sorry, I screwed up. Please let me live with my boyfriend?

Landlord damage control: my boyfriend moved in with me temporarily two months ago, which gradually became permanent. My landlord found out through other people in the building, and she's furious. How do I repair this? Should I write her a letter or email of apology? [more inside]
posted by ocherdraco at 8:38 AM PST - 73 comments

Dining with canines in Vancouver

Help us dine with doggies in Vancouver! [more inside]
posted by bunji at 8:34 AM PST - 9 comments

The Man and His Mistress

Please help me understand Wittgenstein so I can understand "Wittgenstein's Mistress." [more inside]
posted by foxy_hedgehog at 8:18 AM PST - 12 comments

getting rid of mosquitos

I have mosquitos in my backyard, and I'm trying to figure out how to get rid of them. [more inside]
posted by waylaid at 8:10 AM PST - 21 comments

Twitter "who to follow" make it stop

How do I make Twitter stop telling me who to follow? [more inside]
posted by vincele at 7:59 AM PST - 13 comments

Does today's Che Twitter?

Are there insurgents you can follow on Twitter? In the digital age, many guerrilla groups (revolutionary, separatist or otherwise) have their own websites to publicize their causes. Do they use social media like twitter? And, how would I go about looking for them? (It's an academic question, I'm not making any plans...)
posted by B-squared at 7:30 AM PST - 4 comments

Help me learn how to orgasm/masturbate!

I need to learn how to masturbate. If you're a female who learned how to orgasm/whatever after becoming aware of the fact your body can do that, come tell me how you figured it out. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:04 AM PST - 26 comments

Online support for depression

Looking for a decent online support group for chronic depression. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:04 AM PST - 2 comments

Advanced and Applied Deep Breathing Taking

What are some quick techniques to mitigate my own (mainly physical) stress response? [more inside]
posted by rumposinc at 6:56 AM PST - 7 comments

Jolicloud 1.0 Vs. Ubuntu UNR 10.04 FIGHT!

Jolicloud 1.0 or Ubuntu UNR 10.04 FIGHT! Which is suggested for an Aspire One AOA-100? [more inside]
posted by Samizdata at 6:32 AM PST - 8 comments

The poem of the act of the mind

I'm looking for a collection of modernist poetics by poets -- Pound, Crane, Stevens and such. [more inside]
posted by creasy boy at 5:59 AM PST - 7 comments

Heading to Chicago

Going to Chicago this week with my wife, our 1 year old and our 2 nieces (12 and 15) starting at the Sears tower and walking to Navy Pier, what are a couple cool places we can take a rest along the way or is there something longer that we have to go see?
posted by dstopps at 5:56 AM PST - 28 comments

Can this kitchen be saved?

Does anyone make 27-inch electric kitchen ranges anymore? I know about this one, but it's the only one I can find. Extra points for one that's stainless steel and under a thousand dollars.
posted by Shoggoth at 5:52 AM PST - 3 comments

Provence by train?

TravelFilter: French Public Transport advice. I'm flying into Marseille MP2 airport and need to find my way to Carpentras near Avignon to meet some friends. I'd prefer not to hire a car as I won't need it while there. My firends might be able to pick me up in Avignon but would be good to get all the way to Carpentras if easy enough (and cheap). [more inside]
posted by mary8nne at 5:48 AM PST - 9 comments

Need to release the hounds!

I have the dire need to release gas... and it ain't happenin' [more inside]
posted by boostershot at 5:44 AM PST - 20 comments

I could really do with some endorphins.

How do I stop myself from thinking the same sad thoughts while I am exercising? Special snowflake details inside. [more inside]
posted by Ziggy500 at 4:56 AM PST - 24 comments

How do I go about getting my master's?

I've been interested in getting my master's in Computer Science from a local school. I've been out of college for 4 years and don't have any academic contacts. How do I go about doing this? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:51 AM PST - 8 comments

Relationship ambivalence

Is this a normal stage in long-term relationships or is it time to part? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:51 AM PST - 20 comments

First, don't breathe the water.

Help me become a better swim instructor for a fellow adult that can not swim? [more inside]
posted by allkindsoftime at 4:15 AM PST - 14 comments

Making a polyglot mixtape for a sweetheart

Mixtape filter: I'm making a mixtape with songs in as many languages as possible. I think I've got English, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Yiddish, French, and Hebrew covered, so now I'm looking for some less-easy stuff. The mixtape is for a sweetheart. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 3:22 AM PST - 49 comments

Well, how did I get here? Dad needs support!

Once I was a guy with a few good friends. Now I'm a husband and a dad in a relatively new place with no friends. I need support but have very little no time or energy to make it happen. What can I do? [more inside]
posted by rouftop at 12:53 AM PST - 20 comments

Where is this year's In Bb?

Where is this year's collaborative project like last year's In Bb? [more inside]
posted by querty at 12:05 AM PST - 1 comment

August 1

soccer? football? memorable?

[Domain Name Filter] I want to register a soccer/football domain name (strictly .com). Website will mainly talk about football shoes/technology in football. [more inside]
posted by madeinitaly at 11:36 PM PST - 10 comments

Helping acquaintance's sister with her anorexia

An acquaintance asked me if I could help his sister who has anorexia because he knows I have been through similar struggles. I'm not sure how or if it is appropriate for me to interfere. Any suggestions on how to deal with this sensitive topic is appreciated. [more inside]
posted by lacedcoffee at 10:40 PM PST - 16 comments

Online TV for a Deaf Person from Spain (or me)

Where can I find TV and Movies from Spain with Spanish subtitles? I'd like to be aware of current pop-culture in Spain as well improve my Spanish-language skills. I've found quite a few interesting programs on the various Spanish TV channel websites; however, none of them have subtitles. Ideally, I'd like to find some interesting and relatively current TV shows from Spain with subtitles in Spanish. [more inside]
posted by verevi at 10:18 PM PST - 4 comments

DOUGHNUTS!

PowerpointN00Bfilter: How do I use the graphing functions in PP and Excel to simply display 2 columns showing two different values of x% of something? [more inside]
posted by broadway bill at 10:08 PM PST - 2 comments

New to the DIY and bike commuting scene, but...

Hope me make an awesome DIY bike pannier! [more inside]
posted by hoperaiseshell at 8:44 PM PST - 12 comments

10 miles on Highway 101: The worst way to spend an hour?

Commuting on the 101 between Petaluma and Novato or San Rafael and Novato. Which is worse? [more inside]
posted by kirstk at 8:39 PM PST - 8 comments

Should I expect to be a priority after this long?

What to do when you're more commited than you're partner? [more inside]
posted by Atlantic at 8:26 PM PST - 22 comments

"Oh no, " she breathed, "I couldn't and neither could you."

Plot issue - ethically taking up with the spouse's best friend. [more inside]
posted by b33j at 8:14 PM PST - 42 comments

Vacation dilemma

Apparently, I just won a vacation. Should I consider this? [more inside]
posted by rabbitrabbit at 7:28 PM PST - 22 comments

Was I fired with cause or not?

I was "let go" from work the other day - I had already been on probation due to a bad review. The review was full of incorrect statements, which I had proof of but I didn't put up a fuss. I was given requirements to fulfill to show improvement. I met those times 3. They let me go anyway. I said that I had gone way farther even than I was asked to in the requirements, so why are you letting me go? The reason was "The decision has been made." I want to know, is this considered with cause, and can I get unemployment? BTW this is in Mass. [more inside]
posted by Astragalus at 6:46 PM PST - 24 comments

Modern day Sassy cover girls?

What "cool" girl role models (like Zoey Deschanel) would grace the cover of Sassy magazine, if it still existed? [more inside]
posted by wannaknow at 6:41 PM PST - 29 comments

leftover chicken

why does refrigerated cooked chicken taste different than freshly-cooked chicken? i dislike the strong gamey taste that it acquires. is there anything I can do about it, except covering it up with spices or condiments?
posted by macinchik at 6:25 PM PST - 25 comments

Who cares about the coffee, the view is GREAT!

Which cafe in Sydney has the best view? [more inside]
posted by Admira at 6:24 PM PST - 7 comments

I want to read David Hume

Greeting hive, I want to start in on reading David Hume. Where should I start? Which Hume books or collections should I begin with to ease into his works? And, perhaps more importantly, which editions (I like footnotes:) Thanks! :)
posted by DavidandConquer at 6:14 PM PST - 10 comments

Plumbing Problems: storm drain and basement bathroom drains stopped

Plumbing: The exterior storm drain, the basement toilet, and the basement shower are all clogged. What's gone wrong, and what should I do? [more inside]
posted by anotherpanacea at 6:02 PM PST - 11 comments

Looking for adhesives for wood and acrylic.

What epoxy/adhesives are recommended for adhering acrylic to wood with a permanent, strong bond? [more inside]
posted by ogunther at 5:57 PM PST - 7 comments

How could I have been so clueless about this?

Two of my boyfriend's friends are apparently disgusted by me, particularly my looks. I'm shocked, confused, and ashamed. What should I do? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:52 PM PST - 78 comments

Can I use an airbrush to paint a motorcycle?

Can I use my airbrush to paint my motorcycle's gas tank? [more inside]
posted by aaronbeekay at 5:44 PM PST - 6 comments

Everyday styles for long, thick hair

Long-haired MeFites, please tell me what I can do with my hair besides put it up in a ponytail or tear it out. [more inside]
posted by rachaelfaith at 5:35 PM PST - 30 comments

Wedding venue in PA?

Halp! frazzled by looking for reasonable wedding locations in southeast PA...need some suggestions! [more inside]
posted by assasinatdbeauty at 5:30 PM PST - 7 comments

What to do with the honeycomb in my honey jar?

What do you do with your honeycomb (from jars)? [more inside]
posted by edguardo at 5:27 PM PST - 13 comments

Where can I stream old Simpsons episodes?

Is there a good place to stream episodes of The Simpsons? [more inside]
posted by earlofrochester at 5:24 PM PST - 5 comments

Prominent Australian Moustaches?

I'm trying to identify prominent Australians, preferably from the 1980s who had a moustache. Think Magnum PI, but Australian. For what its worth, I've already identified just about every bloke that played cricket for Australia in that period. Bonus points if you can tell me some songs about moustaches too.
posted by MT at 5:09 PM PST - 19 comments

What's your favorite kind of sauerkraut?

I love sauerkraut, and have my own favorites, but I'd like to try some new varieties. What is your favorite kind of sauerkraut (or other fermented cabbage/leaf/something) and where do you buy it? [more inside]
posted by fake at 4:57 PM PST - 17 comments

Should I pay a parking ticket I got in Italy?

Received parking ticket while in Italy, and didn't pay it. Received a notice from the Florence Police department several months after returning to the US, and still didn't pay it. Now I'm going back to Italy in 6 weeks. Any risk of problems? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:42 PM PST - 6 comments

I’m starting to think I don’t know how to do casual dating.

After a few long term relationships (4 yrs, 3 yrs, 10 yrs) I met a nice guy a few weeks ago. I’ve seen him 2-4 x per week every week. The first few weeks, we had dinner, or saw a movie, and went back to his place for sex. The sex is really, really great. The last couple of weeks, I’ve just gone over to his house for sex. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:42 PM PST - 12 comments

Hire me! I'm trustworthy, I promise!

How can I convince my employer to promote me when there is a potential conflict of interest? Should I even try? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:41 PM PST - 11 comments

Eric Hoffer Audio? Video?

I have always been a fan of Eric Hoffer. I just read a new post about him on a blog I read and it rekindled my interest in finding audio or video of Hoffer. I've never heard a single comment or interview. He was the subject of some big CBS interviews in the 60's but I've never found those anywhere either. Anyone here know of any audio and/or video? As always, thanks in advance!
posted by Gerard Sorme at 4:41 PM PST - 2 comments

I need a big lipped plate.

Please help me find the perfect dinner plate. [more inside]
posted by wafaa at 3:59 PM PST - 12 comments

Where to turn for help in Central Texas for a family member in trouble.

My adopted sister is in need of help, and we don't know where to turn. She is 21, recently divorced with a young son. She's on medicaid and food stamps. She doesn't have a job or a driver's license. [more inside]
posted by Strumpf Marionette at 3:34 PM PST - 21 comments

Caffinated and sweet with no sugar? Can it be?!

Tea lovers! Help me find the perfect hot tea to drink please! [more inside]
posted by gilsonal at 3:27 PM PST - 27 comments

How/Where can I buy a netbook online (for delivery to the US) that has a Spanish operating system and a Spanish keyboard layout?

How/Where can I buy a netbook online (for delivery to the US) that has a Spanish operating system and a Spanish keyboard layout?
posted by wogbat at 3:19 PM PST - 2 comments

What to give the once in a lifetime student?

I need an amazing graduation gift idea for an amazing person! Super, artsy, creative input needed... [more inside]
posted by pearlybob at 3:04 PM PST - 13 comments

Trying to find the line between Good Samaritan and Creepy McCreeperson

I saw a woman weeping on the subway and I did nothing. Was that the appropriate response? [more inside]
posted by soonertbone at 2:47 PM PST - 84 comments

Fsh! Fsh! (natural gas smell) on GE XL44

A single burner on our GE XL44 natural gas range has been acting up. The flame was orange and would flare up, and then I dusted the burner. Now it's blue. It smells like gas, and still flares up. [more inside]
posted by mccarty.tim at 2:43 PM PST - 4 comments

I'm out of checks, rent is due, bank is closed. What do I do to solve this by Thursday?

I'm out of checks. As you can see by the date, rent is due. It's a Sunday and I can't go to the bank for help. I have four days after today to get it in by. What do I do? [more inside]
posted by jenfullmoon at 2:41 PM PST - 38 comments

Double Hummingbird, Oh My God, It's So Intense! (But what kind were they?)

I want to learn more about wildlife/natural science in my local area. Can you recommend books? More on what I'm looking for inside. [more inside]
posted by Eyebrows McGee at 2:34 PM PST - 13 comments

All your data are belong to CURL

Where can I lookup the future earnings reports date of a given company by ticker. [more inside]
posted by sourbrew at 2:21 PM PST - 5 comments

Grass, the natural prey of the miniature poodle.

We had a new grass lawn put in at the start of the year. Before long, it had developed yellow spots: pic 1, pic 2. A suspect has been brought in for questioning. She did not confess, only licking the detective on advise of counsel. Two questions: 1) Is she likely the real culprit? 2) What remedies are available? If it is her, I'd like to note that the whole point of the lawn was so that she could do her business out there. We'll get her a potty pad and encourage her not to go on the grass, but I'm doubtful that she'll always go where we want. [more inside]
posted by jewzilla at 2:20 PM PST - 10 comments

Can a Apple Aiport Express be used as a wired connection on a Mac?

mac airport express - how does one get it one to work as a wired connection to a mac?! [more inside]
posted by Botunda at 2:15 PM PST - 3 comments

Will helping him raise his credit score lower my credit score?

Posting for a friend: I added my then-fiance's name as an authorized user of one of my credit cards a few years ago. We've broken up but still own a house together, and we need to refinance it. He has been told that it will help if he can raise his credit score, in part by having me take his name off that credit card. Would that lower my (good) credit score and affect our refinancing if that credit/debt is all mine?
posted by lunachick at 1:57 PM PST - 4 comments

Objective-C pointers are making me bonkers!

I am trying to learn Objective-C. I'm a total n00b and am having a hard time with pointer syntax. Please help me decipher this code. [more inside]
posted by captainscared at 1:51 PM PST - 16 comments

How do I teach myself to brush my teeth?

How do I teach myself to consistently brush my teeth? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 1:45 PM PST - 34 comments

Not a bodybuilder. Simply trying to understand how my body's built.

I'm neither an athlete nor obese, but am trying to lose 20 lbs while also building muscle, on a very low carb diet. My question is about depleted muscle glycogen stores while doing strength training. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 1:44 PM PST - 11 comments

Is this strength training program worth the money?

Am I expecting too much from our (fairly expensive) exercise program? Details within. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 1:44 PM PST - 5 comments

Can you identify this flower?

What kind of flower is this? [more inside]
posted by amro at 1:29 PM PST - 7 comments

I'd like my fake meat bloody, please.

Almost all meat substitutes that I've encountered simulate well-done meat or fish. Are there any vegan/vegetarian recipes to simulate raw/extremely rare meats and fish? [more inside]
posted by Deathalicious at 12:34 PM PST - 20 comments

Could somebody please help me with my new headset and speakers?

Could somebody please help me with my new headset and speakers? [more inside]
posted by bookman117 at 12:29 PM PST - 3 comments

Finding a phone is hard!

Can you recommend a low-cost phone and a low-cost phone plan that will let me import my existing contacts? The contacts are in GroupWise (which can export to a VCF file), and I'm looking at some of the pay-as-you-go prepaid plans. [more inside]
posted by larsks at 12:16 PM PST - 2 comments

City living and staying safe

I'm new to city living and have some probably unfounded worries about security and safety. [more inside]
posted by prunes at 12:07 PM PST - 28 comments

Here comes the sun.

I'm doing some preliminary research into what it would take to run a garage on solar power. This, of course, means using a solar array to power the heavy duty shop equipment that runs on 220. [more inside]
posted by Jon-o at 12:01 PM PST - 7 comments

Native plants for a DC backyard?

Suggestions needed for mid-to-low maintenance, ornamental, native plants that I can grow in D.C. [more inside]
posted by ryanshepard at 11:23 AM PST - 5 comments

BOINC!

I have an absurdly powerful laptop (at least as far as my computing needs are concerned) and I'd like to donate some of its spare processing power to a grid computing initiative, like BOINC. [more inside]
posted by dfriedman at 11:07 AM PST - 5 comments

What's this? A hole?

Who made this hole and what's to be done? [more inside]
posted by otters walk among us at 10:53 AM PST - 11 comments

There was an artful ski movie shot at 100FPS. What is it called?

Ski Movie Aficionados: Approximately five years ago I read about a very artful ski movie in the middle of multi-year production. The aspect I remember most clearly was a very high original frame rate to allow super- smooth slow motion. I want to say 100fps, but I really don't remember for sure. Can anyone lead me to this film? [more inside]
posted by reeddavid at 10:47 AM PST - 1 comment

Where to find a cheap bike?

How should I go about getting a sub-$100 city bike? [in Chicago.] [more inside]
posted by LSK at 10:43 AM PST - 10 comments

Help me go on a drug-fuelled vision quest... legally

Help me go on a drug-fuelled vision quest... legally. [more inside]
posted by alternateuniverse at 9:57 AM PST - 26 comments

A potluck where money is exchanged?

I'd like to start an underground farmers' market, but I'm worried about regs and liability [more inside]
posted by Gilbert at 9:15 AM PST - 31 comments

How to lose weight gained as SSRI side effect?

Has anyone here lost weight successfully while on an SSRI? How did you do it? [more inside]
posted by sister nunchaku of love and mercy at 8:42 AM PST - 16 comments

Love Songs for Dead People

Mixtapefilter: I'm working on a mix with the theme of love songs for dead people. [more inside]
posted by princelyfox at 8:35 AM PST - 56 comments

Help a Pasty Sister Out

What kind of clothing should I wear for hiking in the Southwest to maximize sun protection but also not die of heat stroke? [more inside]
posted by unannihilated at 7:20 AM PST - 11 comments

Leave me alone, I'm here to run.

Help me run without being harassed. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 6:41 AM PST - 115 comments

Name This Baby

We're having (another) boy. We have no boy names we like. Help. [more inside]
posted by kpht at 6:25 AM PST - 111 comments

Should I contact a band for permission to use their music?

Would it be a good idea to write to a band via myspace to ask for permission to use their music in my student audio project? The project (if it's good) could end up on the school's audio website. If it's really good (and I can't say yet that it will be), it's possible I'd want to pitch it to radio programs. [more inside]
posted by brynnwood at 6:20 AM PST - 7 comments

Permanent throwaway email?

What's the best site to get a new email address without submitting a current email address?
posted by mono blanco at 5:50 AM PST - 10 comments

Transitive property

Sharing a fork on a coffee date. What's up with that? [more inside]
posted by tintexas at 5:30 AM PST - 29 comments

Name this job in the Arts

Name this job! My friend works a variety of skilled odd jobs in the arts, for wont of a better term. She needs help naming what it is that she does. [more inside]
posted by mooza at 12:54 AM PST - 18 comments

Magic business suite for artists: share your spells

Asking-for-my-girlfriend: What are some good tools (project management, CRM, accounting) for an artist starting a business selling printed textiles on Etsy? [more inside]
posted by heliostatic at 12:31 AM PST - 1 comment