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How do I remove this garbage disposal at the pictured connection? Everything I’m reading and watching online, e.g. this timestamped guide, says I’m supposed to be able to insert a long screwdriver into that holder and spin to detach after doing the previous steps, but we can’t get the disposal to budge at all. What are we missing, assuming we’re trying to spin in the correct direction? [more inside]
posted by michaelh at 9:36 PM PST - 19 comments

I'm a leaseholder-renter in an apartment with two spaces for rent — one for a roommate, one for a self-contained WFH office. Relocation, new mates or jobs, etc. mean that I end up having to rerent one or the other space practically every year. I've developed a set approach to doing this, which gets me good renters whom I like, and vice-versa. But when they decide to move, most of them forget that I requested six weeks notice, and only give me a month's notice instead. Practically speaking, a month is not a whole month. Typically, most replacement renters only actively seek space for the first 2-3 weeks of the month, and by the last week or 10 days, they've either found something or are waiting till the next month. That means if I don't succeed in rerenting a space in that relatively short window, I have to pay rent on two spaces, rather than just my own. (This is where all my savings went during the pandemic.) Can you help me think out ways to get six weeks notice instead? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:03 PM PST - 14 comments

What short-form delicious dinner can I prepare without dinner-party level menus in any season? [more inside]
posted by Elsie at 3:22 PM PST - 22 comments

I have a hard time putting myself into someone else's shoes when it comes to physical feelings. When I'm full, I can't imagine being hungry. When I'm hot, I can't imagine feeling cold. When I'm feeling okay, I have to force myself to register intellectually that because the other person has a headache they might not want to do XYZ. [more inside]
posted by Omnomnom at 3:02 PM PST - 14 comments

My doctor wants me to try a FODMAPs diet, but not the usual routine. The usual approach is to spend a month or more eating no foods with FODMAPs and then introduce challenges. But my doctor wants me to try to eliminate one group per week while continuing to eat foods from the other three groups. Week one, eliminate oligosaccharides but continue to eat things from the other three groups. Weeks two through four, eliminate di-, then monosaccharides, then polyols while still eating from the other three groups. [more inside]
posted by sevenstars at 1:22 PM PST - 5 comments

How can I get photos on my Android phone to upload to Google immediately after taking them, without any action on my part? [more inside]
posted by dobbs at 11:52 AM PST - 7 comments

What are your experiences with bill negotiation services like Truebill or similar? Have they successfully negotiated cheaper internet service for you? These services work by taking a portion of the savings they negotiate. Over what length of time is that calculated? [more inside]
posted by hoyland at 11:27 AM PST - 2 comments

I bought a small air horn to use inside my house in the event of a break-in. [more inside]
posted by cyrreb at 10:46 AM PST - 13 comments

I’m going from making $42k a year to $85k. Other than the smart financially responsible things I will do, I’m curious what changes others made if they’ve been through the same thing? [more inside]
posted by emotionalmotionsickness at 7:22 AM PST - 45 comments

I live in Brooklyn and I'm looking for places within, say, a two hour drive that I can go with two adults, a three year old kid, and a 25 pound puppy to ideally hike, swim (or at least splash in some water) and paddle around a little in our inflatable kayak. It's surprisingly hard to find places around the city that allow all three of those things -- swimming, dogs, and kayaks! [more inside]
posted by LeeLanded at 7:11 AM PST - 3 comments

Quick question about iOS 14.7 and wifi connection issues... [more inside]
posted by konaStFr at 4:04 AM PST - 4 comments

I want to write beautiful, generous, precise, and insightful short fiction. I have a writing routine now, but I don't know how to improve my craft. I would love recommendations on concrete tactics, exercises…and maybe workshops to take (online or in London). [more inside]
posted by w-w-w at 4:00 AM PST - 12 comments

I just had a surgery out of state and will be flying back home in 10 days. Doctor has approved this as long as I don't lift over 10 lbs. Will airline staff help me move my luggage around the airport? [more inside]
posted by CancerSucks at 2:40 AM PST - 11 comments

A lot of the cryptocurrency world I do not understand, but who is creating NFTs? Is there a subculture out there in Discord or hedge funds or some other group that controls this? I realize that the answer is an ephemeral "anyone" but Goldman and others sold Michael Burry CDSes and not me. I'm not asking about how the technology works, but if I asked how I start a venture capital firm the answer would probably be something like: have or make a lot of money in finance or technology, have deep connections and a good network in what you want to invest, be lucky. [more inside]
posted by geoff. at 11:07 PM PST - 10 comments

I'm selling some of my art as digital downloads and have the high res files. I want to offer files suitable for printing a range of sizes. Is there a site or an app that can convert one image into several files, each sized differently? Are there other tools that will make this simpler than converting each size for each image separately?
posted by mermaidcafe at 9:09 PM PST - 5 comments

I had to emergency manage a website in the last month. I did manage to run a backup, but I didn't download it to my local drive in time. For a few reasons, the hosting provider had to suspend the site, and we can't access the cpanel at the moment. How do I access previous versions? The usual methods (Wayback Machine etc) only managed to cache the main landing page but not the other sections. [more inside]
posted by cendawanita at 9:04 PM PST - 3 comments

Please recommend a hard or soft shell case for my new MacBook Air (M1). I also welcome suggestions for keyboard covers and preventative measures for reducing track pad "polishing" if you have any favorites. Thank you!
posted by Hermione Granger at 8:08 PM PST - 3 comments

I am catching up on three years of tax returns but would like to get 2020 done ASAP. How should I proceed given the insane backlog at the IRS? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:18 PM PST - 7 comments

I am looking for a set of bookcases - one tall one and two short ones. They should be made of wood and of decent quality. [more inside]
posted by silverstatue at 6:54 PM PST - 21 comments

Are there any good, reputable, online classes or programs to learn piano? Specifically for a human with functionally none experience. [more inside]
posted by furnace.heart at 6:37 PM PST - 8 comments

Sometimes when I put in the time for an event in Calendar, my Mac changes the time. This happens immediately, and I have to reopen the event, edit it, and then it's usually fine. What's making this happen, and how do I stop it? It doesn't happen every time, and I haven't figured out the pattern for when it does happen. I have time zone support turned off, I never have events outside of this time zone, and the system date and time is correct.
posted by The corpse in the library at 4:27 PM PST - 4 comments

So I just found out the back pain that's been plaguing me and keeping me up all night for the past TWO YEARS is a herniated disc (L5-S1, so very low back not neck). I'm seeing a doctor and a physical therapist over the next couple weeks but I need to figure out what I should be doing at home to help, or at least not make it worse. [more inside]
posted by 100kb at 4:09 PM PST - 17 comments

Since the condo collapse in Florida, I’ve been on a jag of listening to audiobooks and podcasts about disasters, calamities, and survival thereafter (Chernobyl and the Kansas City hotel disaster so far). It’s soothing somehow, so I’m leaning in. Give me your suggestions for audio on similar topics (I’m covered on those two).
posted by ocherdraco at 4:08 PM PST - 15 comments

Spouse and I are headed out to the American West for a wedding soon (early Sept 2021) and planned to sneak a brief day trip into Yellowstone while we were out there. I'm mostly interested in advice from anyone who has been there this summer regarding how disorganized or busy it is; the Yellowstone website says there's no entry reservations going on. [more inside]
posted by cobaltnine at 3:23 PM PST - 6 comments

I've been seeing commercials for a "self-cleaning" carpet cleaner and now google isn't turning it up & none of the ones I'm looking at mention this feature. Is there such a thing? [more inside]
posted by bleep at 2:56 PM PST - 1 comment

I got a wild hair and am trying to make a video for my band. It's going to be animation, at least to the extent of "background layers scroll by while an 8 frame loop 'walks' in the foreground" or, "pan around a large image" type stuff. It's ok, even great, if it is a LITTLE janky. I'm not trying to be Pixar or Disney or even (although this is getting closer) '80s Hanna Barbera. What programs can I use to achieve this with the least learning curve? [more inside]
posted by dirtdirt at 2:40 PM PST - 8 comments

At 39, could I successfully get a smaller penis that works as well as the one I have? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:07 PM PST - 9 comments

I am trying to dramatically downsize my filing cabinets by digitizing and shredding paper files. But I do not have a solid understanding of what, if anything, I need to keep an actual hard copy of. [more inside]
posted by primethyme at 1:22 PM PST - 8 comments

I have been making a lot of progress on mitigating the chaos of my mind/house/life since being diagnosed and medicated for ADHD. However, since I lived all of my adolescence and much of my adult life in a panicked fog, I think I missed some crucial lessons about how to adult and I still feel like I am objectively bad at cleaning, in the sense that I am wasting more time/energy/emotional stress than most people in order to do certain tasks. [more inside]
posted by sparkling at 12:25 PM PST - 27 comments

I got the J&J shot in early March. On June 30, wary of the delta variant and the lack of data on J&J’s efficacy against it, I went ahead and got the first shot of the Pfizer vaccine at a local pharmacy. Should I get the second Pfizer dose? [more inside]
posted by schadenfrau at 12:21 PM PST - 6 comments

So I have this friend who's graduating from nursing school in a couple weeks ... [more inside]
posted by ZenMasterThis at 11:46 AM PST - 6 comments

Our two cat brothers are 10 years old this year! They are as playful as ever, but I'm starting to wonder if we need to get them a shorter cat tree. [more inside]
posted by Paper rabies at 11:36 AM PST - 9 comments

Help me find the person/company developing a patient controlled medical history portal, please [more inside]
posted by TimHare at 11:20 AM PST - 4 comments

In playing real estate scavenger hunt with my sister, I came across these chairs and would love to see about purchasing one or more. But I have no idea where to look for it, or even what search terms to use. Help please?
posted by DrGail at 11:17 AM PST - 10 comments

I’m on Wellbutrin, 150mg, for depression and anxiety, amid multiple life stressors (divorce, work). I’m about 4.5 weeks in, and thus far I’ve experienced no side effects (except maybe the occasional weird dream), and some pretty notable positive effects. I’m trying to decide whether to up the dose to 300mg, and welcome any thoughts, ideas, experiences, etc. [more inside]
posted by LambSock at 10:09 AM PST - 17 comments

This is one of those nutso obsessions that started as a simple conversation with a friend: discussing awful skincare products and colognes from the 70s after we landed on this page of horrors. [more inside]
posted by zenpop at 8:46 AM PST - 11 comments

What are some special, quirky, cool, unexpected things I can do in Copenhagen with someone I want to surprise with a nice day? [more inside]
posted by artisthatithaca at 8:17 AM PST - 16 comments

I just moved into a loft and I want to go for an industrial modern look. I have two large concrete pillars in the middle of my floor plan that have been painted white by previous owners. How can I best return them to a natural concrete look?
posted by mushtale at 7:22 AM PST - 9 comments

an art related online group i sometimes attend has a "show and tell" component, where various ones of us volunteer to, say, talk about a lesser known artist and share images and info about them/their work, or share something we're working on, or a tool we like , or ..or.. or.. it's very wide open. [more inside]
posted by elgee at 7:21 AM PST - 4 comments

One of my bathrooms is shoddily constructed, and leakage from the shower is causing the corner of a wall to start rotting (there is no way to completely prevent this leakage while still making use of the shower). How urgent of a problem is this? [more inside]
posted by missrachael at 7:03 AM PST - 17 comments

Potentially buying a house where the owner would prefer that his indoor/outdoor cat (10 yo F) stay with the new owners. That's hypothetically fine with us, but how should we manage introductions to our two indoor-outdoor cats (M, 9 and 7) and the dog (M, 11) ? Or is this a terrible idea? [more inside]
posted by Sweetie Darling at 6:22 AM PST - 14 comments

Dear mefites, parents were taken in an ambulance to hospital because of drinking last night. I am looking for advice please to help me with how to deal with my parents, their drinking, ongoing crises, and my own issues with alcohol and associated fallout. There is a lot of background to this question and include a TLDR at the end. [more inside]
posted by sedimentary_deer at 5:16 AM PST - 23 comments

An ex who I cut off all contact with, and explicitly told that I want nothing to do with, suddenly seems to be creeping/stalking me online. I'm very upset and shaken up, and need people who are wiser and more objective than me to tell me what to make of it, and what my next steps are. [more inside]
posted by keep it under cover at 1:26 AM PST - 20 comments

I'd like to remove a roll of 35mm film from a broken point and shoot camera. I have a dark bag and some simple tools. [more inside]
posted by Fiasco da Gama at 12:49 AM PST - 8 comments

If I have a low(ish) ferritin level but normal iron, TIBC, and transferrin saturation, could the ferritin level still be causing my fatigue? [more inside]
posted by trillian at 10:30 PM PST - 15 comments

I am trying to do some simple stitching on my inherited Janome MC6600P machine. The presser foot will not lower all the way down to the feed plates. I'm assuming, because Mum had it set up to quilt thick fabric, that this is some sort of adjustment that needs to be altered, but how? [more inside]
posted by ninazer0 at 10:25 PM PST - 8 comments

I am thinking about where best to contribute my money, time or energy. This can be at any level, from global all the way down to local. I happen to live in Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA, but I am open to groups working anywhere.
posted by NotLost at 9:31 PM PST - 10 comments

I'm considering a trip to Iceland in a few weeks and curious to know what to expect in terms of Covid restrictions, etc. [more inside]
posted by fingers_of_fire at 8:27 PM PST - 5 comments

I'm a lay person with lots of interest in philosophy and science. Generally speaking, I take a physicalist view of reality, and suspect that if there is an "explanation" for consciousness, it will come from scientific advances (maybe physics, maybe neurobiology; I don't know) rather than philosophy. [more inside]
posted by the antecedent of that pronoun at 6:47 PM PST - 11 comments

I've googled. I vaguely remember "Tall tall trees killed another Kennedy and something something Sonny Bono." Anyone remember this? Who sang it, etc.?
posted by tzikeh at 5:52 PM PST - 3 comments

Wife bought this small doll at an estate sale - appears quite old (1930s?), and is about three inches tall. She is convinced that it is supposed to be a likeness of someone famous. Any experts, or good guesses?
posted by davidmsc at 5:52 PM PST - 15 comments

Between the COVID pandemic, climate change, and general global tension, it’s gotten harder to remain optimistic for the future. Humanity has overcome other challenges before, but this feels like *a lot*. I’m in my early twenties – How do you stay optimistic in the face of so much adversity? [more inside]
posted by NewShoo at 5:36 PM PST - 22 comments

My seven-year-old son has very difficult time respecting other people’s personal space. How do I help him change his behavior? [more inside]
posted by not_the_water at 4:48 PM PST - 12 comments

I'm not proud of myself for even having to ask this question, but I want to improve: I notice that when somebody is "my competition," I find it really hard to be friends with them, or get close to them, or stay close to them. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 3:11 PM PST - 11 comments

I need advice on how to dig out of a very large backlog at my work, when I already feel pulled in too many directions, and find myself on the verge of burnout. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 3:10 PM PST - 8 comments

It's hot as balls outside and my coffee maker has broken, so I'm in the market for some store-bought iced coffees. Buzz a girl up, please! [more inside]
posted by We put our faith in Blast Hardcheese at 1:41 PM PST - 20 comments

I'm finding myself unexpectedly in Puerto Rico in two weeks and would love to do an evening of fine dining. Eating inside is not within the risk tolerance of the group. Is there some place that has a fancy meal that can be eaten outside? [more inside]
posted by Candleman at 1:37 PM PST - 5 comments

I am on, idk, year 8? 10? Of having to advocate for myself and others in the Ontarian healthcare system. I know you get more flies with honey etc., but I am past it, I have no patience anymore for arrogant or burned out doctors and lazy office staff and zero resources anywhere. Tell me how to talk to medical staff in a way that will get them to do their jobs. [more inside]
posted by cotton dress sock at 12:59 PM PST - 17 comments

Trying to find out a way to access my Dad's imac (in Florida), from my PC (in Maryland). [more inside]
posted by ObscureReferenceMan at 12:46 PM PST - 9 comments

I recently started getting Amazon packages addressed to “Jenny Smith” (but not actually that name) at my address. Is this likely to be a brushing scam even though the packages aren’t addressed to me? [more inside]
posted by insectosaurus at 12:37 PM PST - 6 comments

The battery holder for one of my bike lights died yesterday and I'm having a tough time finding a replacement. Any suggestions/links to products would be appreciated as well as suggestions on what exactly to search for. [more inside]
posted by any portmanteau in a storm at 11:50 AM PST - 15 comments

Cataloging, inventory, sorting-- all of that information is readily available... but what OFFICE SUPPLIES do libraries use? Are there certain brands or products (like non-acetone-free tape) that you avoid at all costs? I [more inside]
posted by smellyhipster at 11:22 AM PST - 6 comments

Hello all, So I am a 36M who got married almost 2 years ago to a 30F. My wife is originally from outside of the US and so we got married in NYC and moved in together in FL. She had a lot of emotional issues which led to verbal fights almost daily. Almost a year in, she one day goes through my phone and finds a text I sent to an old flame. It was just a friendly text and nothing else, I never lay a finger on any woman nor flirted with any woman since we were together. In my opinion, she used that as a ticket to end the relationship because 'it was my fault.' [more inside]
posted by red47Apple at 10:14 AM PST - 42 comments

Several weeks ago I heard a country / folk-ish song about trees on KDHX. I believe the singer was a man. The gist of the song was that the singer was describing a variety and number of trees growing in a place (on a hill, maybe?). Unfortunately I can't remember any of the specific numbers or trees, and it's proving very difficult to search for. From the style and production quality I would guess the song was recorded relatively recently. [more inside]
posted by jedicus at 9:47 AM PST - 7 comments

All my new kitten (8 weeks old) does is sleep and bite me. It's bearable for now, but I do not want him to grow into a cat that bites me. Please hope. I saw this question and this question, but the kittens were older (7 months) than this guy. [more inside]
posted by pH Indicating Socks at 9:37 AM PST - 15 comments

I bought my friend's truck that hasn't been registered since 2018. Of course the first week I drive it, I get pulled over and cited. I have an appt set with the tax office for mid-August, which was the soonest I could get, but I really kind of need to use this car asap. How can I get this done quicker? [more inside]
posted by monologish at 9:02 AM PST - 4 comments

I am looking for consumer or professional reviews or discussions of the Viora Life Skin Tightening procedure. [more inside]
posted by nantucket at 8:11 AM PST - 2 comments

What kind of service provider can I call to help organize, rationalize, remove and reconfigure the absolute kelp forest of (non-electrical) wiring in our 1920s era house? [more inside]
posted by undercoverhuwaaah at 6:44 AM PST - 3 comments

I'm having trouble formatting my resume in a way that parses well and explains my experience. I've been working as a salaried consultant for the past 10 years and hoping to move out of consulting. My job titles have been generic (i.e Consultant, Senior Consultant) which show my promotion progression, but not really the roles that match the jobs i'm applying to. I've been at various clients doing various roles on various projects. [more inside]
posted by sandmanwv at 6:30 AM PST - 3 comments

We’re about to replace the flat roof on our Chicago home, and we’ll need to remove and replace the roof deck in order to get access to it. The roof replacement is urgent, but the deck replacement requires a long, complex, and expensive permitting process. Would it be a bad idea to just go ahead and do the work without a permit? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 6:00 AM PST - 14 comments

Can someone explain NFTs to me? What they are, how they work, and how to make my own.
posted by jitterbug perfume at 5:17 AM PST - 12 comments

My girlfriend is turning 30 and organised a party but a bunch of her closest friends can't make it, and it's gotten her really down, so I want to make it as special as possible. I've never done any party organising and would love some activity ideas or ways to make the day special for her. Games to get people mingling, dumb activities, or just anecdotes from parties you've been to and enjoyed would be great! [more inside]
posted by Chaffinch at 3:21 AM PST - 14 comments

In the give and take of personal relationships is it ever appropriate to demand someone apologize for some perceived transgression? As opposed to letting the person know what was offensive and waiting for them to offer the apology? [more inside]
posted by The_imp_inimpossible at 8:58 PM PST - 22 comments

I'm headed to Macedonia where I would like to film a documentary about a woman I know and love who lives there. The only camera I have is my iPhone. I don't know how much footage I'll take but I wouldn't be surprised if it was 100 hours or more. How do I deal with the memory requirements of this task? [more inside]
posted by crapples at 7:52 PM PST - 14 comments

Five heavy grocery bags from Whole Foods / Amazon fresh were erroneously delivered to my address. There’s got to be $300 worth of food in there. There is no indication on any of the bags where it was supposed to go, but each bag has a QR code. I can’t figure out how to report to Amazon that these bags were delivered to the wrong address. Help?
posted by pintapicasso at 7:11 PM PST - 13 comments

What can I do about my older dog, a twelve year old Shiba Inu who whines a lot when he seems to want something? [more inside]
posted by ljs30 at 2:40 PM PST - 9 comments

I'm looking for blogs, newsletters, tumblrs, or similar feeds of visual art from various artists, updated regularly. Any medium, or more than one, is fine: photography, digital and traditional painting, [pictures of] sculpture, and others. Brand new art is great, but so is art from any time period at all. An ideal source is updated between 1 and 100 times a month, and posts things with attribution. Examples: BOOOOOOOM, Shorpy Historical Photos, The Art Showcase.
posted by 4th number at 2:06 PM PST - 15 comments

Got some blue cheese and the flavor is just a little too strong for me to enjoy it plain. Would it be more palatable in sauce form, like a roux? [more inside]
posted by saramour at 1:18 PM PST - 22 comments

Due to my worsening heart failure (I do not have diabetes) my cardiologist has put me on Farxiga. One of the very common side effects is yeast infection. He said I will likely have chronic yeast infections and UTIs while on it. How can I prevent this? [more inside]
posted by misanthropicsarah at 1:04 PM PST - 19 comments

Are there any website companies that will host your website for free AND also let you use your custom web domain? What about email? [more inside]
posted by yet.another.boston.question at 12:51 PM PST - 9 comments

Autoimmune diseases are described as "flaring". What exactly is that, and how is it measured? [more inside]
posted by Dashy at 12:19 PM PST - 9 comments

Posting for a friend whose spouse was just diagnosed as COVID-positive: "I'm trying to find a resource that basically says, "Oh, someone in the house is vaccinated but has COVID. Here's what they need to do (LIST) and here's what everyone else [all vaccinated] needs to do to stay safe (LIST)." This news has thrown her for a loop, and helpful, current, accurate information would be appreciated.
posted by MonkeyToes at 12:08 PM PST - 8 comments

Do you know who makes this dress? I saw it in this window a month ago but didn't try it on, because the boutique this window belongs to is way out of my budget. Many things that catch my eye that they sell are over $275, gulp. This might be also. [more inside]
posted by 41swans at 12:02 PM PST - 8 comments

I plug it (Lexar 64Gb) in to my PC and it shows up fine. I plug it into my Pixel 3a.... and ?. I checked under "Storage" and it only shows the internal storage for the phone not the external drive. What am I missing?
posted by storybored at 9:50 AM PST - 7 comments

A friend asked me to dogsit her dog for a week while she went on vacation. I have dog-sat her before, without any issues at all. Unfortunately, this time around, the dog had a lot of issues, mainly not being able to hold their poop/pee. After everything had settled down, I sent a check-in text with this friend; ends up she's disappointed in me and does not want me to dog-sit her dog again. Feels she put her trust in me and feels let down. I'm not sure how to respond. [more inside]
posted by dubious_dude at 9:43 AM PST - 60 comments

I'd like to start a book club where I work but do it in an asynchronous way. I'm imagining a very visually appealing and easy to use page/website/forum/whatever you want to call it where there would be an option for people to add new books as desired and people to post comments/discussions as desired. We have about 700 employees so I'd like them to be able to post a variety of books (with moderation in place, of course) they are reading, with discussion bits, etc. and have people respond. Each book should have one "thread" that people can participate in. and show something about the most recent comment(s) and who posted them. [more inside]
posted by _DB_ at 9:00 AM PST - 7 comments

due to some fairly sudden and serious health concerns, my elderly in-laws have had to sell their house and move into a rental apartment. due to their compressed timeline and the current state of the housing market, the only apartment they could find comes with wall-to-wall carpeting. since the health issues in question include dementia and incontinence, we're trying to figure out how to prevent the carpeting from taking too much abuse. [more inside]
posted by Old Kentucky Shark at 8:26 AM PST - 21 comments

The kitchen in my new place has no door and I'd like to keep the cooking heat (and humidity) out of the rest of the house. I was thinking of hanging some beads/curtains in the doorway (example, example) to try and contain the heat. Unfortunately, the stove is within 3 inches of the doorway. Is cotton/linen/wooden beads dangerous to hang next to the gas burners? Any alternative materials or solutions to pursue?
posted by crossswords at 8:23 AM PST - 9 comments

Spouse's employer has to start offering health insurance. However, doing so will f**K things up for us and our Marketplace plan. Things get much more detailed inside... [more inside]
posted by Thorzdad at 7:48 AM PST - 15 comments

What I want: to be able to regularly go swim in a pool, sit in a hot tub, sit in a sauna + shower/lockers. What I don't need: fitness classes, fitness equipment, kid-friendliness or water slides. Fanciness and an ability to get a drink in the pool is a plus. Affordability is also nice. Open either to membership or a day pass type of situation. Got any ideas?
posted by shadygrove at 6:57 AM PST - 3 comments

Is there an iPad app for total amateurs who want to get into drawing? Is this even a reasonable thing to explore if I am a terrible artist outside of the iPad? Give me a pencil or crayons or anything and it will be a struggle to draw something that looks "good". But for the purposes of being able to do this on the train, I'm hoping to learn and improve with just my iPad and Apple Pencil. Any apps you'd recommend? Or general advice?
posted by NorthCoastRiver at 6:28 AM PST - 14 comments

10 year old child is very into creating Gatcha videos through screenshots and assembling them in KineMaster on our iPad for short 30-60s clips. She’s starting to hit limits on what she can put together creatively and wants to move up into actual animation. She uses procreate for drawing and we are willing to sign her up and help her with classes. What’s the sweet spot for not so simple animation apps here?
posted by dorothyisunderwood at 6:15 AM PST - 6 comments

I remember a movie or TV show about an AI box experiment. The AI escaped by flashing a light at a tiny portion of a laptop screen or something that was inadvertently brought into its view. [more inside]
posted by yesno at 4:49 AM PST - 5 comments

I'd like to start seeing a regular therapist for long-term and debilitating depression. San Francisco area. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 11:29 PM PST - 5 comments

Well, looking at my face on zoom calls for over a year has officially made me self conscious about my “elevens” between my brows (I’m a 36-year old female living in Houston). I’ve bought creams and this thing called “frownies” to try and help it, but I’m seriously considering Botox. [more inside]
posted by Shaitan at 7:17 PM PST - 17 comments

I want to be able to make art (cartoons, drawings, etc) using an iPad. What apps should I be looking for? What’s the best animation app for iPad? I would need to be able to export the art from the iPad to use elsewhere.
posted by jitterbug perfume at 6:11 PM PST - 4 comments

Just trying to compile a list of songs with radio announcer clips. Usually they make it sound very AM-ey so you get that it’s meant to be the radio. All I can think of so far is We Built This City and Rock Me Amadeus. Thanks in advance! Tangential examples like the phone operator in Young Lust also accepted.
posted by ftm at 4:40 PM PST - 75 comments

I'm an IT generalist, mostly a sysadmin but I was once a coder. Closer to the end of my career than the beginning. I've given up on getting hired as an FTE and I want to put together an IT contracting practice in a more current niche than sysadmin. If you were in my situation, I'd like to hear from you about how you found yourself there and what you specifically did to pivot to success. [more inside]
posted by Quesaak at 4:35 PM PST - 12 comments

I've been going batty reading the news about the Delta variant in the U.S. and I want to channel this surge of adrenaline into action. Are there things you've been doing to prepare for the next period of Delta variant limbo that are different from how you prepped for Covid shutdowns in 2020? Looking for both tangible and mental strategies -- could be planning more outdoor group activities, stocking up on X product due to future shortages, re-organizing your first-aid kit, let me have 'em! [more inside]
posted by rogerroger at 4:35 PM PST - 29 comments

I got an email from a company asking me to complete a survey in exchange for an amazon voucher. This is broadly not uncommon. So I filled in their survey and thought no more about it. However they have just emailed me saying that my email address "was included in error" so instead they're offering an extra long free trial of their service. This has irked me. [more inside]
posted by Just this guy, y'know at 3:19 PM PST - 6 comments

Briefly: I know there are guidelines on how many cortisone shots a person should get within the space of a single year. I do NOT know if there are guidelines on how many a person may have over a lifetime. But are there? Are the side effects potential or assured, are they cumulative over many years, and does a steroid-weakened tendon never heal if left alone long enough? One million details follow. [more inside]
posted by queenofbithynia at 1:08 PM PST - 12 comments

After around 10 years and many hours, I finally got around to finishing assembling a legacy Thing-o-matic by Makerbot from a kit that was gifted to me long ago ! It powers up and calibrates but I am stuck going further. Can anyone help me to get the software working to actually print something? I am turning to the hive before consigning this elegant and once expensive kit (that I am invested in because I recently spent many hours assembling it) to the dustbin. Any advice, please? [more inside]
posted by SamFrancisco at 12:48 PM PST - 4 comments

I need to install a new vent hood. My original 1950s vent hood is both underpowered and hopelessly mucky. I'd like a very good, efficient hood to replace it. Have you shopped for oven hoods? What are your must-haves? What's a great value? Please share your tips for finding the best hood for our needs!
posted by amanda at 12:10 PM PST - 16 comments

I have to google some pretty gross stuff that I don’t want to see images of- how do I get ONLY text results on a mobile device? [more inside]
posted by Pretty Good Talker at 12:08 PM PST - 8 comments

I'm looking for the best Young Adult fiction titles which have been published in the last decade or so. [more inside]
posted by TryTheTilapia at 11:59 AM PST - 21 comments

I have been told for most of my professional career that I tend to speak too fast in almost all scenarios (interview, instructing, oral exams, or just old fashioned talking with people )… and I’d like to change that. Even when I go in consciously thinking “slow down”, it quickly disappears. Had anyone read a book, learned a technique(s), bought an app, or gone to a class that has helped? Thank much! [more inside]
posted by aggienfo at 11:07 AM PST - 16 comments

My kid's favorite drinking glass fell victim to my clumsiness last night. If this is something that can be found online, I want to replace it, but my searches aren't turning up anything. It's one of a pair, with motifs of bees and dragonflies. Photos. [more inside]
posted by qxntpqbbbqxl at 11:05 AM PST - 9 comments

Do you know who Terry Gross interviewed today on Fresh Air? [more inside]
posted by nantucket at 10:46 AM PST - 2 comments

Need a new show and had luck here before! [more inside]
posted by heavenknows at 10:20 AM PST - 24 comments

Hi friends! I fell in love with a Canadian! Yay! That's great because the US is a scary place, he has his loving family in Ontario, where we want to end up long term and I am unattached here.... Except.. [more inside]
posted by Kestrelxo at 9:46 AM PST - 19 comments

Hi there. I am looking for a breakdown of resistance training exercises by MVC (maximum voluntary contraction), similar to what is in the tables at the end of the linked article. Is there one single article or website that does this? Thanks in advance for any suggestions! The article.
posted by mukade at 8:50 AM PST - 3 comments

Do I tip the person that delivers my firewood? If so, how much? [more inside]
posted by transient at 6:57 AM PST - 17 comments

My partner and I are getting queer married in the fall of 2022 (yaaaay!) and are in the midst of exploring venue options. There's a lot of BS on the internet when searching for wedding venues, and we're having a hard time sorting the wheat from the chaff. Maybe you can help? [more inside]
posted by spindrifter at 6:42 AM PST - 8 comments

A printing plate, 1-3-5-9 repeated in a 10 by 10 grid. What could it be? (Pics inside) [more inside]
posted by gregvr at 5:22 AM PST - 10 comments

Can you recommend more Lone Wolf and Cub-type tv shows and films? [more inside]
posted by the webmistress at 4:47 AM PST - 9 comments

I am working on a video editing project and want to use Olympic footage to make it. Preferably 4k and 60 (or more) fps. Namely of athletes competing, all kinds of shots: wide, closeup, etc. Where can I find this sort of footage to download? [more inside]
posted by zardoz at 4:44 AM PST - 6 comments

I have never taken unemployment before, but according to my state's calculator (Oregon), I may qualify for, what is to me, a significant amount of money. I teach year-round at a college on a class-by-class basis, usually teaching two classes at a time. A couple of months ago, due to low enrollment, I was dropped to teaching one class, and this may go on for some time. (Not sure if these particulars matter, but I thought I should include them in case they affect my question). Are there any downsides I should know about before applying?
posted by anonymous at 3:01 AM PST - 8 comments

The title kinda says it all. I have a family member who wants to get sober. He doesn’t have insurance and probably needs medical assistance for detox. What are his options? In general, what action plan can I give him and his spouse for getting him sober and on a course for continued sobriety? (I’m sorry. I didn’t search previous AskMeFi questions. I’m scared and stressed and at work.)
posted by anonymous at 3:01 AM PST - 10 comments

What percentage of pursuit race riders from 1900-1929 were heroin addicts?, or, who would you hire to find out the answer to that question? My first thought was research librarian. If research librarian is correct; Is there a way to hire a reputable research librarian per question?
posted by oldnumberseven at 11:48 PM PST - 1 comment

What are words that mean "reliable", "dependable", "responsible", "trustworthy", etc., but begin with the letter b, in English or any other language? [more inside]
posted by chaiyai at 11:45 PM PST - 23 comments

I'm older (36) and received my BS in International Business in 2007. I've been a professional software developer since then and have been more and more interested in theory. I've also enjoyed teaching through a bootcamp. I'd like to pursue a doctorate in computer science, is this possible? [more inside]
posted by geoff. at 11:29 PM PST - 7 comments

We'll be in Cleveland in December to see a show at the Keybank State Theatre, and are looking for input on where to eat beforehand. Any restaurants you love in the area? No dietary restrictions, and we'll have our car.
posted by cozenedindigo at 6:01 PM PST - 8 comments

Recently found. A whole box of family photos in slide/transparency format. I can deal with the Kodachrome slides, but what are these slides? They are 2 3/4" squares measured at the outside of the cardboard frame. [more inside]
posted by shoesfullofdust at 4:32 PM PST - 9 comments

Hi Folks -- I know better, I really do. But, with the false sense of security of two negative early pregnancy tests, I went all out at a bachelorette party, only to come home to take another test, and voila, pregnant. More details inside... [more inside]
posted by essenescence at 4:10 PM PST - 25 comments

I am trying to change my lifestyle to a more healthy diet and exercising routine, but it has not been easy and it is overwhelming at times. [more inside]
posted by RearWindow at 3:58 PM PST - 30 comments

I have an old flip phone that I'm happy with, but my carrier has informed me that the coming switch to 5G is finally going to render it obsolete. Looking for input RE: whether A) this is true; B) what some feature phones that meet my needs might be. [more inside]
posted by ryanshepard at 2:26 PM PST - 9 comments

Where can I go to find the best, coolest stories about the Olympics each day? I'm talking about stuff like this or this—the upsets, the unusual developments, the huge wins from smaller countries that might otherwise get overlooked, etc. Totally agnostic as to any particular sport or discipline. Just want good stories—thanks!
posted by Conrad Cornelius o'Donald o'Dell at 1:18 PM PST - 5 comments

My parent and I have have essentially permanently swapped cars. Both are paid off and insured. Is there a good reason to go through the process of changing titles/insurance/etc. Or is it ok to just leave it as it is? [more inside]
posted by roaring beast at 1:14 PM PST - 19 comments

I broke my ankle just before COVID hit and have been working my way back from a long period of being more sedentary than normal. I have been doing PT for months and have hit a wall because the new weighted exercises destroy me but I know being active is part of continuing to get better. what do I do? [more inside]
posted by slow graffiti at 12:07 PM PST - 13 comments

After a lifetime of eschewing hair products, I need a hair styling spray for my fine, wavy (2b) hair. Difficulty level: sensitivity to fragrances. [more inside]
posted by toastedcheese at 11:49 AM PST - 6 comments

I love this episode of 99 percent invisible, "wild ones live". i would love to have more things similar to this to listen to. Know anything? [more inside]
posted by euphoria066 at 11:37 AM PST - 2 comments

I have two healthy kittens - but one won't eat *anything* dry. Do you have suggestions for food & treats a cat with this quirk might like to snack on? [more inside]
posted by RajahKing at 8:44 AM PST - 19 comments

I have some nice, collectible paperback books. I want to put them in some kind of protective case or holder that's more durable and perhaps permanent than the plastic sleeves they currently reside in, but I can't seem to find what I'm looking for. Maybe you can help? [more inside]
posted by Ten Cold Hot Dogs at 4:10 AM PST - 9 comments

This is bizarre and I’m not fully sure if it’s not psychosomatic. But over the past several years, I’ve connected drinking more water with getting more painful cystic acne and more acne in general. As a result, I try not to drink or eat watery things but it’d be great if I could go back to normal. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 3:04 AM PST - 12 comments

I'm reading Nancy Mitford's foreign correspondence from France in the 1950s and am adoring it. Would love to continue being transported to mid-20th century Paris by other books and media- what should I read and watch to achieve this? (I do not, sadly, read French so recs will have to be English or in translation.)
posted by Balthamos at 12:48 AM PST - 31 comments

How commonplace is crossing one’s arms at communion time, hands on opposite shoulders, to receive a blessing rather than receive the Eucharist, in Catholic churches? [more inside]
posted by Charity Garfein at 11:14 PM PST - 46 comments

What kind of skirt am I looking for? Above knee-length, snug but not restrictively tight, thick fabric. Can't find the right search terms. [more inside]
posted by skycrashesdown at 10:50 PM PST - 20 comments

I am interested in sheet music books with a range of short guitar songs from beginner to intermediate level, that help build technique. Should have emphasis on fingerpicking, not as much chord strumming. For an example of the kind of music I'm looking for: Etude in E Minor by Tarrega. I lean toward Aeolian and Phrygian tunes. Ok if it has standard notation but must also have tablature. My local music stores don't have much on their shelves these days, and searching the web is too vast!
posted by oxisos at 9:15 PM PST - 5 comments

Without a bunch of unnecessary back story, I used to be an avid reader, read many of the classics, but these days I tend to only enjoy teen drama/sci fi with quick pacing like Hunger Games, the Magicians, Percy Jackson, etc. I always preferred more contemporary stuff as soon as I was far enough in college to specialize (e.g. Thomas Pynchon over Austen), but now I feel like my taste is not on par with my education, and mostly I don't care about that because I like what I like, but part of me does care, and I wonder about trying to get back to some more literary/learned media. I say "media" because ideally I'd like to expand my tastes for tv shows and movies also. [more inside]
posted by crunchy potato at 8:59 PM PST - 22 comments

I would like to follow the Olympics from the US without being subject to any jingoism or nationalism. Does anyone have a source of coverage that might fit the bill? I'm boycotting NBC and I've checked out various US based sports journalism sites without much luck. Also, I'm sorted with a VPN and BBC iplayer access, but they're going the full English breakfast. Focus on politically activist athletes would be a bonus. [more inside]
posted by ursus_comiter at 8:00 PM PST - 12 comments

It’s my birthday soon and I want to make the best gluten-free dessert ever! I’m in the mood for a gorgeous, fussy project with multiple steps. 8 servings or so would be great. I’d like to prep most of it the night before, but I'm willing to hunt for ingredients and even buy a few tools. Off the wall flavor combinations are encouraged. [more inside]
posted by lloquat at 6:40 PM PST - 22 comments

I am having an extremely difficult time dealing with applying for and enrolling in my state's ACA health insurance plan. Are there people who will do this for me for a fee? [more inside]
posted by CancerSucks at 6:21 PM PST - 10 comments

My daughter is 20. She has no driver's license or picture ID, but needs an independent checking account. Help? [more inside]
posted by Orlop at 5:28 PM PST - 15 comments

I have about 1000 comic books, most of which are the standard journal/large format (about 7x10) although some are digest size (about 6x4). Right now they are stored in four large, long cardboard boxes made for comics that I picked up at a comic book store about 25 years ago. I would like to put them on a shelf or display them in some way, but I can't figure out the best method. [more inside]
posted by twelve cent archie at 4:45 PM PST - 4 comments

Hello, I'm in the US, travelling abroad and just realized I forgot to turn off my cellular data. I'm scared I incurred a huge amount of charges that I will face I return home. [more inside]
posted by cardamom at 4:40 PM PST - 6 comments

My parents called me the other day to let me know that my 85-year-old mother has a tumor on her lung. Either this week or next, Mom is scheduled to have more tests, at the large regional teaching hospital near me. The following morning, my phone bricked. I ordered a new one, which is to arrive via FedEx on Monday by noon. Staying in communication with my family is important right now. I would like not to miss the delivery of my new device. But the tools that FedEx has provided to ensure this are not intuitive. [more inside]
posted by virago at 1:48 PM PST - 13 comments

I love the Firefox Reader! Would it be simple or complex for me to use Firefox Reader as my website style? If simple, please hold my hand and walk me through the steps. [more inside]
posted by aniola at 12:43 PM PST - 8 comments

I got a butane lighter that isn't working. I tried to refill it and it's still not working. I can't find online instructions for a similar lighter so I'm not sure how to fix it. [more inside]
posted by quiet coyote at 12:34 PM PST - 9 comments

My incontinent dog (see my previous questions) has been peeing on our unsealed concrete patio. It smells now. What can I clean and seal it with? Details after the fold. [more inside]
posted by mrfuga0 at 12:20 PM PST - 2 comments

I have (literally) one bar of sheet music. I need to enter it into some kind of synthesizer, manipulate it to get the sound I want and then export it for use in a video. I have no experience with online music-making tools. [more inside]
posted by sardonyx at 12:11 PM PST - 10 comments

There was a line of plastic toys in the mid to late '80s that could be found in cheaper US department stores. They were transforming robot toys that became simple 3D geometric shapes when transformed: an extruded rectangle, an extruded triangle, an irregular eight-sided thing shaped vaguely like a sarcophagus, a cube, a few others. All in solid red, gray, black, etc. They were around 6-12 cm in length and the robot instances were not terribly human looking. They had many little hinged hatches made of flat plastic hiding body parts and weapons. [more inside]
posted by eotvos at 10:07 AM PST - 7 comments

I don't even know how to Google this.....it was a video showing how to take a printed photo and cut it into a grid, and remove some of the pieces of the original in order to make a smaller, "pixellated" version. I recall they used a portrait of Geo. Washington as an example. Ring any bells?
posted by tristeza at 9:50 AM PST - 2 comments

At my small office we've been having very odd, sudden, network slowdowns - they seem to come out of nowhere and are a real nuisance. It slows down the network CCTV (10 second lag), totally incapacitates the IP phone system, causes very slow web browsing etc etc. Restarting various switches and the main router - eventually something seems to help and normal service is resumed but if I'm not mistaken it isn't instant and takes an hour or so to 'recover' back to normal operation... [more inside]
posted by dance at 7:53 AM PST - 13 comments

Why did the Tokyo organizers get rid of red, green, blue, black, and yellow? In every display of the 5 interlocked Olympic rings I've seen on Eurosport, all 5 are white.
posted by Homer42 at 3:54 AM PST - 9 comments

I'm suspicious that my body doesn't remember vaccines as expected. Info? [more inside]
posted by AlexiaSky at 2:50 AM PST - 9 comments

Are there any good video games where you play as the force resisting colonialism that are not set in the future? I'm especially looking for any that let you take the role of guerillas. (Also, no Nazis, they're the easy, go to baddies) [more inside]
posted by Hactar at 10:55 PM PST - 19 comments

I traveled from HST to CDT five days ago. I still have significant insomnia. Please help me strategize ways to reclaim my "morning person" self. [more inside]
posted by crunchy potato at 10:04 PM PST - 14 comments

What with the state of the world I've been thinking about fire and flood recently. If I had to get up and go right now, what should go in my go-bag? How do I avoid putting all my eggs in one basket? Computer/digitisable stuff I guess I can have a back-up offsite or on a hard drive ready to go, but what about irreplacable/sentimental/unique stuff? How to keep important things safe but also separate?
posted by I'm always feeling, Blue at 9:53 PM PST - 22 comments

I'm completely uneducated when it comes to boats. I want one for a very specific purpose. Help me find the perfect little boat for lake swimming! [more inside]
posted by a.steele at 9:12 PM PST - 16 comments

I am trying to support a longtime friend who very suddenly lost his young wife. However, I'm struggling to navigate my role. Looking for tips from those who've been there as well as any recommended articles, online groups, etc. I can't commit to regular meetings, but I'd like to find a place where I can talk about my own concerns and frustrations, like the one below the fold. [more inside]
posted by mermaidcafe at 6:48 PM PST - 5 comments

I have this pen I love this pen and have managed to keep one pen for almost 10 years because It is a pen I like and value, I carry it every day. The part I love is the integrated clip as part of the body. I do like the bolt action a lot as well but would leave it if I had to. While I like the pens integrated clip and action I really don't like the lines and the "tacti cool" look it has. I know the bolt action is a part of that but the lines and knurling at the top are what I want to get away from. To my question, what other pens have that style integrated clip? [more inside]
posted by dstopps at 6:29 PM PST - 7 comments

Here is a pic I took in Little Cottonwood Canyon, Utah. What are these rock formations?
posted by my log does not judge at 5:43 PM PST - 7 comments

The 'n' key on my work laptop broke last week, which became an amusing Friday diversion for my colleagues as they tried to decipher my emails and messages. I will get a new laptop on Monday. I want to announce the return of my 'n' key by sending them a message that uses the letter 'n' as many times as possible. Can you help me compose a sentence?
posted by christa at 5:42 PM PST - 18 comments

Can anyone suggest strong baby girl names that aren’t classic European names? [more inside]
posted by nouvelle-personne at 4:31 PM PST - 19 comments

I watched an episode of some cartoon in the mid-nineties. All I remember is that everyone lost their face somehow. This meant that people had a blank area of skin instead of features like eyes and noses. I think the style was similar to Powerpuff Girls, but I couldn't find the episode by googling key words, so not sure if that's the right show. [more inside]
posted by toucan at 3:32 PM PST - 4 comments

Picking up this girl tomorrow and we having trouble coming up with a name that we all like. Wife doesn't like "human" names for cats. I don't like "food" names for cats. Doesn't have to have anything to do with her coloring, but bonus points if it does. Ideally the name would also have a cute nickname pairing. Thanks!
posted by pyro979 at 2:57 PM PST - 61 comments

Looking for suggestions of GOOD PG teen comedy movies to watch with my tween daughter. So many of the classics from the 80s and 90s and 00s that I remember fondly are so strikingly "problematic" on the re-watch. Would love to hear your suggestions of any that are good quality and bring the lols, but not offensive! [more inside]
posted by beccyjoe at 2:25 PM PST - 33 comments

Area outside of a house. It's been peed on. Which then makes other dogs pee on it. Yellow rinse and repeat. So how do you break the cycle? Is there a scent there you can put to make them NOT want to use it? Or a scare crow for urination? Anything?
posted by rileyray3000 at 2:24 PM PST - 6 comments

Can anyone recommend a professional in NYC to transfer an audio cassette to digital? I have the only copy of some interviews with a late relative. I don't want to risk mailing it.
posted by Mavri at 12:44 PM PST - 5 comments

Is there such a thing? Can anyone recommend a brand or fabric that satisfies both these conditions? Or must it always a compromise between the two?
posted by Paul Slade at 11:08 AM PST - 18 comments

I finally caught up with the same friend from this Ask, the other day on FaceTime, to reconcile things. I found out I said something completely unintentionally offensive to this friend. Want thoughts and insights on how to avoid those kinds of gaffes. [more inside]
posted by dubious_dude at 10:57 AM PST - 32 comments

My 6-year-old is going to make $100, how could we use this to start his education about money? [more inside]
posted by Toddles at 9:16 AM PST - 12 comments

I'm interested in a house for sale that shares a driveway with the next door neighbor. It's a narrow driveway (one car), and the neighbor has a one-car garage at the end, but the house for sale does not (one could be built). More details inside. [more inside]
posted by pinochiette at 8:56 AM PST - 26 comments

Im only a few weeks out of a quite destructive relationship and really struggling not to get back on the dating apps. I am also having some very shaming thoughts about myself which I think are not necessarily true and not healthy. Please help. [more inside]
posted by starstarstar at 8:43 AM PST - 13 comments

I have a folding bike and it's really useful. I came across folding caravans this morning (here if interested, and the short video at the bottom of the page is worth watching IMHO). What other folding things exist and are they any good? Thanks!
posted by chr at 8:19 AM PST - 34 comments

I have a series of projects that all have essentially the same steps, just with different dates. I'm looking for something that will let me have a template project with each task separated by a certain number of days.  The tasks aren't exactly dependent on each other, so doing step E early isn't blocked if step B is still outstanding, but usually they're completed in order. [more inside]
posted by korej at 7:53 AM PST - 7 comments

(Preface: I know nothing.) I'm on a mission to track down leaks in my budget and discovered that I'm paying $9.99/mo for 2 TB of iCloud storage but am only using 222 GB. If I can keep it under 200 GB, I can drop down to $2.99. Messages is taking 84.9 GB. What happens if I turn that off? Extra credit: Is there a cheaper, just as good way *within my nonexistent skill set* to do automatic backups?
posted by HotToddy at 7:26 AM PST - 4 comments

My brother got a job with the United States Post Office. However, due to series of unintended errors he did not get an Employee Id Number (EIN) until the end of the first pay period. So he was unable to sign up for direct deposit and on payday there was no paper check for him. He is wondering if this is normal so anyone with experience with working for USPS would be helpful. [more inside]
posted by clocksock at 6:35 AM PST - 3 comments

For people with sleep trouble (as I've been having recently) it seems like a top recommendation is to keep very regular sleep hours, and have wind-down time before bed. I'm curious how people who do this manage the tension between the need to keep early hours (to go to work, to look after kids) and the need/desire to occasionally stay up late (to enjoy regular adult socializing) [more inside]
posted by LambSock at 5:22 AM PST - 11 comments

We are going to be in Durango, Co. only 2 days but hope to get tickets to Mesa Verde. (only 14 days in advance) and would like to see a slope canyon, something like Antelope Canyon. Is there anything nearby? Any recommendations for Durango to Santa Fe?
posted by ebesan at 5:08 AM PST - 4 comments

I have an old demo recording of a song I wrote way back. I've had it professionally digitized and remastered. The vocals are nice and clear, but the synthesizer instrumentals were weak to begin with and have degraded further since. What would be the best software to use to isolate the vocals and recreate the instrumentals? It would need to be automated as I don't know much about music. (I wrote the lyrics and sent them with detailed instructions for what kind of sound I wanted to a demo recording service. They actually did a really good job; everyone who's heard it has seemed quite impressed.) The other option, and probably the better one, would be to pay a professional to do it. [more inside]
posted by blue shadows at 1:21 AM PST - 4 comments

One of my common Bash scripting patterns is like this: shuf < playingcards.txt | head -n 3 to "draw" 3 random playing cards from a text file with all the card names on separate lines. Is there a similarly simple way to pick three random multi-line passages from a text file? I am OK adding limited special formatting, like opening and closing a multi-line passage with lines of squigglies or something. Thanks!
posted by circular at 10:48 PM PST - 18 comments

Is it possible to set up a mutual fund / ETF investment account that does automatic WITHDRAWS every month, quarter, or otherwise periodically? I know auto-invest is a common feature and in fact I use it on at least one account. I'm asking for the opposite: a platform that can cash out a certain proportion of my investments periodically, on autopilot, until they're used up. See within for more details and why I would want to do this. [more inside]
posted by Joey Buttafoucault at 6:40 PM PST - 5 comments

I have some items I bought at Bekeley Bowl that I don’t want to bother returning, is there a local fridge I can easily drop off at? [more inside]
posted by Lawn Beaver at 5:59 PM PST - 2 comments

What are your best tips and tricks for email management in Outlook? I'm about to start a new job (yay!), and my inbox had gotten way out of control at my current one. I'm looking for some ideas to be more organized this time.
posted by Blue Jello Elf at 4:02 PM PST - 12 comments

Help me find an iPad app that allows for basic on-the-fly video editing. Context: on the Mac, the app Screencast-O-Matic allows you to record video of yourself or your screen. It allows you to pause a recording, replay a bit to see how it turned out, then (perhaps) back up a few seconds to overwrite a slip of the tongue or inexpert phrasing—all mid-recording, before you've saved the video. This lessens the need for highly scripted recordings, which I want to avoid. The iPad app doesn't have this feature. Help me find something that does? [more inside]
posted by knucklebones at 4:00 PM PST - 0 comments

after the pandemic, i'm trying to figure out where to live with my partner and my pup...move back to nyc, or try for a new start in LA? i'm so torn about what to do....details below!! [more inside]
posted by lightgray at 3:08 PM PST - 15 comments

Is there a temperature range a landlord is supposed to have their apartments within? My apartment is typically between 40-60 degrees. I have reached out to the landlord and they are shrugging their shoulders and saying that there is nothing they can do. [more inside]
posted by drid9ghots at 3:06 PM PST - 9 comments

It looks like I will soon be visiting the Tallahassee area about once per month for work. As long as I have to pass through, I'd like to spend some time seeing some local sights, eating some good food, etc. I have seen the previous Tallahassee questions, but they are quite old at this point. I am hoping for some more recent recommendations of places to visit. [more inside]
posted by Sparky Buttons at 2:29 PM PST - 12 comments

I know, tough question. I'm usually pretty good about bookmarking articles or videos I find helpful or useful, but if I did I can't find it. The article's premise was that Goals are not of any particular value, since people often chase after the same goals all or most of their lives. Instead the article recommended focusing on a list of things and the first thing in the list (not surprisingly) did not entail a goal at all. Somewhat more detail after the break. [more inside]
posted by forthright at 1:56 PM PST - 8 comments

Back on the used car market. Looking mostly at Priuses and Fits, trying to decide which one would be better for me. [more inside]
posted by geegollygosh at 1:43 PM PST - 29 comments

I’ve been doing at-home Pilates since the beginning of quarantine and am struggling to balance my non-leg days. [more inside]
posted by stoneandstar at 12:23 PM PST - 7 comments

What is an alternative way to say "sorry" in this context: "I'm sorry to hear that you tripped and broke your favorite mug." Basically, sorry used to connote empathy.
posted by Jason and Laszlo at 12:18 PM PST - 39 comments

On our Windows 10 machine, we are getting an unexplained popup message as seen here. The icon in the tray says it's from hpUpdate. I've deleted hpUpdate. The PC is an HP product, but I think the message was generated out of programs related to our recently departed HP printer. Current printer is a Brother. Or, it could be spam not related to anything much. Has anyone any info? I have not yet run malwarebytes, but I guess that's something to try.
posted by SemiSalt at 11:53 AM PST - 11 comments

I just had part of my roof redone. I noticed the part under my window looks not flush and unfinished. Is this something I should get them to fix? Photo here.
posted by cacofonie at 11:00 AM PST - 6 comments

I read that you shouldn't heat up honey or it loses most of its beneficial components--enzymes, probiotics, antioxidants, etc. Anything above 102 F will start to cook off the good stuff within. [more inside]
posted by luvmywife at 10:51 AM PST - 2 comments

I have a new Lenovo T-15 with a 1TB drive. The computer has a slot for a second hard drive, and I have the appropriate 2TB SSD. I can either take the computer and the drive to a shop and pay to have somebody install the drive, or I can do it myself. If I choose the latter option, what do I need to know? [more inside]
posted by sardonyx at 9:51 AM PST - 16 comments

My therapist pointed out that I have a hard time 'being in my own corner'-- that I tend to assume that I am wrong and others are right. I worry a lot about being a bad person or not the best person I can be. In the past I've been told to work on self-compassion, self-acceptance, etc. but somehow the idea of 'being in my own corner' really resonates. I wanna root for myself like I root for sports teams and favorite book characters! I just...don't know how to do it. [more inside]
posted by jeszac at 9:50 AM PST - 13 comments

Looking for written works where the past interweaves with the present. [more inside]
posted by damayanti at 9:23 AM PST - 37 comments

A dead bird in London, probably a pigeon, wore a ring around its leg with some writing on it. We are not sure what it means. [more inside]
posted by johngoren at 8:49 AM PST - 5 comments

I own a Sciolari Concorde chandelier. I broke said chandelier. Resources help? [more inside]
posted by Tchad at 8:45 AM PST - 4 comments

My mom at 90 needs one, badly. It's impossible to communicate. As I enter this process with her it feels like I'm sliding down a slippery slope of bullshit. $1,600 to $2,000 for a unit? I read somewhere they cost $100 dollars to manufacture. Anyway: [more inside]
posted by zenpop at 8:44 AM PST - 10 comments

Half an hour ago I was playing soccer on artificial turf in the hot sun, barefoot. I've now got blisters forming under the balls of my feet. What can I do right now to make this go away faster / heal better? Many thanks! (It's absurdly hard to find a doctor right now where I am without going to the emergency room, but it is not that bad).
posted by melamakarona at 8:25 AM PST - 7 comments

Trying to find a source for this console table. I’m sure it’s an Asian import. Spotted it in Chinatown SF for a ridiculous mark up and want to price shop online. But I don’t know what this curvy style is called to aid in my search. link
posted by TestamentToGrace at 7:49 AM PST - 2 comments

I'm hosting a Bad Taste party for my birthday and I want to offer the very worst karaoke music. Can you deliver? I am searching for Karaoke (lyric-including) videos of any genre to make a play list to give out ahead of the party. Any terrible suggestion is welcome.
posted by parmanparman at 7:07 AM PST - 73 comments

I’ll be going on a road trip with my 10 year old in a few weeks. What should we listen to? [more inside]
posted by tchemgrrl at 7:06 AM PST - 17 comments

New homeowner, unfamiliar with expectations for the services others provide us. We have an arborist currently out in our yard trimming a tree for us. He quoted us a very reasonable price for the work he's doing. Should we include a tip as part of our payment?
posted by mcbeth at 6:41 AM PST - 10 comments

One of the more minor ways that capitalism is stressing me out right now is that there are too many choices for electric toothbrushes. If you love yours, can you tell me what you have? [more inside]
posted by Ollie at 6:13 AM PST - 20 comments

This fall I'll start studying to become an experience designer (yay!), coming mostly from a web dev/e-com background. I want to better understand what companies look for in an experience designer, so I can start taking appropriate actions to improve my chances of landing a great job in the future. What are the things I can do (skills, tools, activities) in the next two years that will wow future employers and recruiters?
posted by Foci for Analysis at 5:55 AM PST - 9 comments

How do I shower, walk around and keep the dressing dry and clean? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:49 AM PST - 10 comments

I have been trying to find a new job with very little success since the end of 2020. After a lot of failed attempts. I finally landed an interview for a data science position at a startup, which I thought went very well. After the interview, they asked me for professional references, including from my current supervisor. After a very prolonged process from there, I finally learned I didn't get the job. Today I learned from a personal contact within the company that despite his assurances to me that he'd be happy to give me a positive reference, my boss failed to do so, and his equivocal endorsement was a major factor in their decision. In fact, prior to speaking with him, they'd been enthusiastic about hiring me. I'm gutted, but also very concerned this will happen again. How do I deal with a less-than-positive reference from my supervisor in future applications? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:49 AM PST - 23 comments

Japanese language preferred, English fine as well. Specific interests within! [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 5:48 AM PST - 3 comments

I'm pursuing a graduate degree part-time, and it's down to the major paper. I'm having a really hard time, after a full day of a challenging job that combines managing people, creative work, and strategic/tactical problem-solving, to find it in me to work on the degree. Ideas for re-energizing? [more inside]
posted by Shepherd at 4:20 AM PST - 12 comments

I have to sell about a dozen Japanese prints. I have no idea of their value and want to do this quickly and with as little effort as possible. I live in the SF Bay Area and prefer dealing with this one time in person. I do not need to maximize income but do need to do basic due diligence regarding selling them for their appropriate value. Where do I go/what do I do?
posted by latkes at 5:15 PM PST - 3 comments

My younger brother also both shots, Moderna. Out of nowhere he got nailed, a pretty nasty case, too -- lost sense of smell, lots of aching in his joints, fever, blah blah blah. So. Obviously, masks any time I'm indoors around other people, and will shop in hours when the stores have more personal room. What else? [more inside]
posted by dancestoblue at 5:13 PM PST - 58 comments

My partner and I are experienced but not expert backpackers, and we both verge towards the OCD side of things, and have questions about Bears and scented products. [more inside]
posted by soylent00FF00 at 5:03 PM PST - 21 comments

A friend has asked me to research her, and so I am looking for public databases that are not in the vein of KnowX or USSearch or PeekYou. But I am also not talking about password protected databases such as the DMV or searching for a credit report. [more inside]
posted by CollectiveMind at 4:17 PM PST - 4 comments

How do you use the word "ambivalent"? [more inside]
posted by DTMFA at 3:52 PM PST - 35 comments

I’m a researcher. My colleagues and I develop and test brief early interventions (i.e., for use in the first months after sexual assault) to help survivors recover. Participation in our studies involves either getting an intervention for free or giving feedback on an intervention we’re developing. These studies don't require in-person visits, and they’re all low risk and fairly low commitment. We pay participants, although survivors usually say they’re participating to help other survivors. Normally, we have a steady stream of recent survivors wanting to participate, but we’re having major problems finding participants right now, and need new ideas. [more inside]
posted by quiet coyote at 2:10 PM PST - 17 comments

We bought a car we rarely drive. When should we change the oil? [more inside]
posted by pdb at 1:33 PM PST - 16 comments

I have two office buildings I want to convert into residences, which would require re-zoning the properties from commercial to residential. I need an adjacent condominium board to approve the re-zoning, and I have no guarantee they'll agree. I was thinking of offering 25k to "help" them decide. In and of itself, would this be illegal?
posted by BadgerDoctor at 1:32 PM PST - 24 comments

Partner and I got our second dose of Astra Zeneca last week in Australia (10 weeks between first and second jab). We're trying to judge the advisability and effectiveness of getting vaccinated with Pfizer or Moderna - either a single-shot booster or a full two-dose course - now that we're back in the US where we reside. All the info I can find on the Internet relates to getting first and second jabs with different vaccines. [more inside]
posted by under_petticoat_rule at 1:24 PM PST - 12 comments

Hi everyone. Me and my wife live in London. Next week I will be flying to Seattle for a week and then returning on the day of our fifth wedding anniversary. Does anyone have any suggestion for a gift? [more inside]
posted by einekleine at 1:08 PM PST - 20 comments

My family is emigrating to Canada in a few weeks and we need to get Covid tests in Los Angeles before we cross the border. Please help us! [more inside]
posted by number9dream at 12:50 PM PST - 7 comments

My cat started having dry, hard, pellet-y poops a little over a week ago. I've been trying various things including more/better water dishes, more brushing to ward off hairballs, and wet food with extra water. She is still pooping at least every other day and is still getting zoomies/jumping/eating/snuggling/etc. a normal amount. How do I know when it's time to see a vet? [more inside]
posted by momus_window at 9:27 AM PST - 19 comments

If I want to run a window AC unit on solar, what equipment do I need and where would I buy it? [more inside]
posted by Tehhund at 8:27 AM PST - 12 comments

I recently bought a boat, it was a bit of an impulse buy but not a very big investment. The seller had the title and the previous owner signed it but he never filled in the buyer portion, signed the title or registered the boat. I don't think it would be a big deal (from a process standpoint, not the legality standpoint on the sellers part) but the date that the original seller signed is 2013. What kind of headache am I going to get into when I go to register this boat? I'd be registering it in WV and its a WV title.
posted by jmsta at 6:57 AM PST - 1 comment

We would like to screen (over zoom via screensharing) a video of an old play we put on about 20 years ago, to a private group. Do we need the rights, again? [more inside]
posted by johnsohl at 4:27 AM PST - 11 comments

I (double vaxxed) will shortly be flying cross-country to visit family, some of whom aren't vaxxed. Because Reasons, I believe my 13yo nephew is planning to ask me to help him get vaxxed because his parents won't. Help? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 12:44 AM PST - 70 comments

Is it insane of me to unravel an eight year relationship in the course of a month? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 12:44 AM PST - 35 comments

I'm reading Big Little Lies and it's doing me a lot of good. Looking for recommendations for similar books. [more inside]
posted by sir jective at 9:33 PM PST - 13 comments

So my local grocer (the fabulous HEB) carries bulk spices, which are phenomenally cheaper than the jarred kind. (Seriously, if yours does too and you've never checked out the price difference, you will be astounded.) As a result, though, I've accumulated 25-30 small plastic baggies, that I've been keeping just in a rectangular plastic bin, which means they tend to spill out everywhere when I"m searching for a particular spice, which always seems to take way too long too. Has anybody run across or invented an elegant solution to this dilemma? (I don't want to re-jar them btw, don't really have the room.)
posted by slappy_pinchbottom at 9:13 PM PST - 30 comments

I saw this question about watching the Olympics this summer from a month ago, but I have a more specific follow-up. I want to watch obscure sports / events online on a live feed (or more likely on a 13 hour delay as I am in NY). What subscription do I need to do that? [more inside]
posted by DEiBnL13 at 8:56 PM PST - 14 comments

My best friend drug me to a neighborhood book club 15+ years ago and from that point on we were inseparable. She passed away suddenly last month in her mid-50s. Needless to say, we’re all devastated and still trying to make sense of it all. Ironically, she was supposed to host book club next month and now I’ve been tasked to pick a book to read to honor her memory. [more inside]
posted by exoticlikeomaha at 7:46 PM PST - 13 comments

Without thinking, I dumped the salty ice from an ice cream maker on my compost pile. Total is probably 1.5 c. rock salt. Do I have to worry about using the resulting compost next year?
posted by Emmy Rae at 5:31 PM PST - 5 comments

I am occasionally tasked with providing some vegan baked goods alongside, or in place of, my usual Heinous Carnivore butter- and egg-fests, and I have run into a recurring issue: the vegan stuff just ain't as good. And I hate that! Please send me your truly indulgent, celebratory, gorgeous vegan bakes! Or, BONUS: clue me in to the techniques I'm missing. [more inside]
posted by We put our faith in Blast Hardcheese at 5:08 PM PST - 22 comments

It would be nice to read about someone who pieces together facts that elude others, while they also deal with problems like a landlord who wants to evict ‘em or needing to care for an ailing relative or just needing to skip a meal to make the budget work. Not a perfect match, but the TV show Terriers and the novel Dark Places kinda fit the bill. What do you suggest?
posted by Monochrome at 5:01 PM PST - 17 comments

What is the best software to handle OCR and PDFs on MacOS? Finereader is NOT supported on Big Sur and though it runs a major glitch is that mouse drag control does not. What are my alternatives? [more inside]
posted by jadepearl at 4:39 PM PST - 9 comments

I googled for an answer to this, but couldn't sort out relevant answers*: can I make a batch of jam, store it overnight in the fridge, and then can it? [more inside]
posted by oneirodynia at 3:36 PM PST - 9 comments

My kids’ tutor is leaving and I need a gift. I’d love to use the kids’ handprints to make something nicer and more permanent than a plain old cardstock card. I’ve found a PDF template on Etsy that would look good as a background, and my thought is to get that PDF printed on canvas and then have the kids put their handprints on top with acrylic paint. Is that a good idea? Challenge level: would like to get it done this weekend. [more inside]
posted by liet at 2:48 PM PST - 8 comments

I'm interested in studying and understanding a particular community as an outsider. I understand that this is what anthropologists do. What resources would you recommend for someone who is planning to do anthropological work, but doesn't have any formal training? [more inside]
posted by wesleyac at 2:24 PM PST - 10 comments

I need some low level design work done - like a one off header for a newsletter. For high level, 99 Designs was great. But at 299 to start...peppy. Fiverr I used for very cheap in the past (20 bucks) and had some success. But you also get serious translation issues and cut and paste jobs. Who's good in the design middle?
posted by rileyray3000 at 2:19 PM PST - 2 comments

I think the Internet is full of lies when it comes to advice on how to dispose of old paint water. [more inside]
posted by tofu_crouton at 1:34 PM PST - 7 comments

My spouse and I are interested in visiting Hawaii since we live on the West Coast, but I would be the organizer and I'm getting overwhelmed by all of the different aspects to plan. Most of all I'm unsure whether the type of more laid-back/community-centric experience we like to have is possible or likely to have in Hawaii. More inside! [more inside]
posted by rogerroger at 1:24 PM PST - 10 comments

I'm moving from St. Louis, MO to Atlanta, GA in about a month. For listing the house I'm putting many of my belongings in a storage container for about one month. The containers we have seem to be dry and fairly resistant to pests. The one thing they aren't is cool in St. Louis Summer weather (averaging ~88 F and ~65% humidity.) The boxes are basically a giant oven, especially when not stored in a climate controlled space. We've accepted that some things might be damaged by the heat and others will be just fine. The more we can put in the containers the better. What's good in a container and what's not? [more inside]
posted by brokeaspoke at 12:37 PM PST - 10 comments

Will fresh-picked basil stay green in the fridge over several days? [more inside]
posted by Thorzdad at 10:55 AM PST - 21 comments

I had a streak of bad luck with jobs, and then suddenly maybe a ray of hope? Looking to rid some guilt with quitting and some reassurance that it will hopefully be ok? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 10:32 AM PST - 28 comments

I'm looking for help to automate downloading several hundred days worth of photos and comments from my daycare provider's website. [more inside]
posted by NoneOfTheAbove at 10:06 AM PST - 9 comments

I got the J&J vaccine this spring because it was the first available appointment. I'd like to get a second dose of Pfizer or Moderna because of the Delta variant, especially after a report yesterday about J&J potentially being ineffective against Delta. [more inside]
posted by pinochiette at 9:17 AM PST - 18 comments

I'm setting up a new private forum for a 501c3 organization I'm involved in and I'm interested in hearing from anyone that can recommend a forum platform that's not too difficult to set up and can be handed off to someone else to administer in the future. [more inside]
posted by photoslob at 8:50 AM PST - 10 comments

Went to my favorite tourist trip/bar in Manhattan yesterday, McSorleys which is cash only (which is common) has only two beers (dark and light) and they give you two mugs of beer when you order one. I love this place, though I'm sure many NYers give it a pass, but I really would like to hear of other places with severely limited menus and/or kind of weird service offerings? (not looking for weird decor) [more inside]
posted by sandmanwv at 7:52 AM PST - 44 comments

I'm trying to understand the dynamics of a successful focus/study group. What has worked for you? [more inside]
posted by diode at 7:18 AM PST - 3 comments

Details inside to avoid spoilers. [more inside]
posted by Tehhund at 6:04 AM PST - 5 comments

My girlfriend has tasked me with helping her make us a joint makeout playlist for our times of woo-pitching. [more inside]
posted by Twicketface at 5:38 AM PST - 28 comments

I'd like to surprise my girlfriend in Lahaina with a white plumeria lei and hairpiece. Any recommendations on a florist who can make and deliver this? Thanks and aloha!
posted by beammeup4 at 1:25 AM PST - 1 comment

My mother is anti-vax, mostly fed by youtube videos. She seems to be in a moment where she might be open to changing her mind (because of the inconvenience and impact on her relationships from being unvaccinated). I'm looking for resources, ideally emotion-driven youtube content, that might help to role model or show a path as to how she could move from her current anti-vax, covid conspiracy stance to vaccine acceptance. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 11:20 PM PST - 18 comments

Not a group for survivors, but for the informed researcher and healer. A place to discuss matters pertaining to in utero to age 3 traumas, from a more scientific perspective with emphasis on trauma-informed knowledge, theory, exchange of experiences in the healing realm and therapeutics. Less science and more heat, mind and soul.
posted by watercarrier at 8:52 PM PST - 3 comments

I finally stood up to my hypercritical sister. Now she's not talking to me... *More snowflakes inside...* [more inside]
posted by Kobayashi Maru at 6:13 PM PST - 36 comments

We bought a house in pretty good shape, but of course, there are changes we'd like to make so it works better for us. Assuming we have a bit of cash, how should we prioritize these improvements? [more inside]
posted by stripesandplaid at 5:45 PM PST - 20 comments

This first time tepache brewer put a silicone airlock on her tepache. 36 hours later, no bubbles are visible and no upward pressure on the airlock indicating CO2 production. Now I find out that tepache is an aerobic ferment, not anaerobic. Can I save this batch? [more inside]
posted by burntflowers at 5:36 PM PST - 6 comments

I'm self-employed and get my health insurance through the NY exchange. I earn too much to get tax credits, but I guess because of some Covid legislation, they've widened the eligibility, so now I AM eligible, but I can't figure out how to show it. Do you know anything about this? [more inside]
posted by gigondas at 5:19 PM PST - 3 comments

I need to find a way to come to terms with never finding a life partner in the face of all my contacts being married, having kids, and enjoying having someone to share life with. [more inside]
posted by Aranquis at 4:33 PM PST - 51 comments

I'm helping a friend set up a crowdfunding campaign for living expenses following a health crisis. We want an easy way to accept recurring monthly donations, as well as one-time donations. Is there a crowdfunding platform for individuals that supports recurring monthly donations? Alternatively, is there a way to MacGyver this? [more inside]
posted by ottereroticist at 4:28 PM PST - 2 comments

Need a good, trans-friendly doctor for a teenager. [more inside]
posted by terrierhead at 3:58 PM PST - 11 comments

I need to mow the lawn but am convinced the universe is conspiring against me. I can't pull start a mower to save my life. [more inside]
posted by youngergirl44 at 1:49 PM PST - 36 comments

Can anyone suggest a point of contact at Nikon (probably in Marketing)? I want to see if they can do anything for a photographer who does a ton of great pro bono work. [more inside]
posted by wenestvedt at 12:44 PM PST - 3 comments

I'm in the market for a new bookcase and think I want to work with a carpenter to have one made. After decades of living with shitty disposable furniture, I finally have the $ to buy things that will last longer than 5 years. (And I have this goal of honestly my furniture sticking around the rest of my life. I've had lots of luck buying awesome vintage pieces this year.) [more inside]
posted by namemeansgazelle at 12:20 PM PST - 18 comments

My partner (41M) and I (38F) have a really good thing, but we have both been through the wringer with past relationships. He gets very angry very quickly when we are talking about anything difficult or emotional, and loses the ability to communicate rationally, often saying things that are cruel and hurtful. I need practical advice (other than therapy, that is booked) about ways to deescalate these tantrums before they get out of hand, and for healing through them when they do. More snowflakes inside... [more inside]
posted by dazedandconfused at 12:15 PM PST - 61 comments

Poppa is almost 15. A while back he had what I thought was a scratch on his hind leg that kept getting irritated since he would jump from cabinets over the fridge to the countertops below. It wasn’t healing so I took him to the vet and an allergist. [more inside]
posted by mokeydraws at 11:28 AM PST - 5 comments

With gout you're supposed to avoid red meat, cheese, and alcohol, because purines. However, looking at this chart, red meat has no more purines than chicken, and half as much as salmon, which is supposed to be okay; and Edam cheese is super low on purines. Is the red meat/cheese/alcohol advice just wrong? Is there some other factor? In 2012 folks were talking about fructose. Is there any more recent and more solid advice?
posted by musofire at 10:33 AM PST - 10 comments

Well, I accepted a job in a manager position and I've been here for two weeks and I truly DESPISE it. What do I do now? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 10:33 AM PST - 29 comments

I can't help but suspect that a pelvic exam done by an OB/GYN when I was a child was done incorrectly, to put it mildly. Am I right or is this standard procedure? More details inside - some of the details might be too graphic, sorry about that. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 10:21 AM PST - 14 comments

This was me 499 days ago. On the strength of everyone's advice, we stopped going to the gym and haven't been back since. We have been fully vaccinated (Moderna) since March and are eager to get back to our gym routine. Is it safe yet? [more inside]
posted by DrGail at 9:22 AM PST - 22 comments

I have a pair of men's lululemon yoga (?) pants that, after a year of near continuous wearing, need replacing. I think they're most like the Discipline style they list on their website: straight legged, zipper side and back pockets, drawstring with elastic waist, loose foot opening, not cuffed like joggers. [more inside]
posted by cameradv at 7:58 AM PST - 7 comments

I checked out a book from my local public library and was amazed to discover that it is signed and inscribed by the author, an important American writer who is now deceased. Should I let the library know or do you think they already know? What is the best practice here? [more inside]
posted by clair-de-lune at 7:46 AM PST - 17 comments

We cut down some large trees in our backyard. Yay! A chainsaw turned four of them into perfectly sized sittin' stumps, but how to preserve them? [more inside]
posted by Kitteh at 7:36 AM PST - 8 comments

I have an old metal library cart I want to have restored. Does powder coating seem like the way to go? [more inside]
posted by FencingGal at 7:19 AM PST - 11 comments

My music collection is in Apple Music and it was a huge mistake. It includes mp3s I joined the service with that "matched," mp3s that didn't match, mp3s that matched wrong (ugh), and also stuff I added to my library since signing up. Well, a bunch of my collection has disappeared over the years, I'm fed up, and I want out. How do I escape with the rest of my collection intact? I will throw money at this problem if I have to.
posted by nebulawindphone at 6:14 AM PST - 17 comments

I'm moving and I have to downsize like CRAZY. Far and away the biggest pile of stuff I need to get rid of is books. I've already combed through to find what online booksellers and used book dealers will take - and the pile is still huge. How can I make them go away FAST? (Location: NYC, Complication: I have a broken knee and I do not own a car.) [more inside]
posted by EmpressCallipygos at 6:09 AM PST - 15 comments

Or maybe I should ask "how can I learn to be comfortable initiating physical displays of affection with my friends?" Because I can do it, when it seems really necessary - when someone obviously needs comfort or support - but I feel really weird about it at other times... [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:53 AM PST - 13 comments

I'm feeling down because I realized that I'm really easy to push around. Are there resources that can help me to learn to better stand up for myself? [more inside]
posted by Krop Tor at 10:44 PM PST - 12 comments

It's been suggested that I get a cat to help relieve stress. However, since I'll be going back to working in The Office soon, would it be fair for the cat to be left alone all day without any human companionship? (Other issues as well) [more inside]
posted by gtrwolf at 10:28 PM PST - 26 comments

I replaced my much-hated chest freezer with a glorious new glass-shelved upright. Now I'm wondering if I can unplug the chest freezer and use it as a kind of root cellar. It lives in my unheated detached garage. Winters usually go down to -10F. What do you think? Would apples freeze? Would there be too little ventilation?
posted by HotToddy at 10:28 PM PST - 11 comments

I’m at an Large house with WiFi in FairPlay CO and while everyone else was getting groceries, I made great progress with my ASL homework, but once everyone was home, it was soooo slow, so I took a break to help with dinner, and am struggling to refresh pages. I have been unable to complete an assignment on GoReact and upload it. [more inside]
posted by childofTethys at 9:44 PM PST - 6 comments

I am currently working on reorganizing our family photos, and I have an old 7" Kindle Fire that's not really doing anything. So I am looking for recommendations for your preferred Kindle or Google Play app that can slideshow photos over the network, either from a local file share or remote from Google Drive. Paid is OK. What app have you used and liked?
posted by fings at 5:04 PM PST - 2 comments

I heard this coming our of my iPad in the middle of the night: Male voice (Indian accent): “Hello?” Female voice (American accent): “Can you believe we have control over the microphone” [more inside]
posted by squink at 4:53 PM PST - 19 comments

Our company sells other peoples widgets. We also have a number of widget widget accessories of our own design. We want to create an overreaching brand name to group these products under that unifies them without boxing us in too specifically for future products. [more inside]
posted by Iteki at 4:25 PM PST - 12 comments

My old Windows 7 machine finally bit the dust and I just bought a new computer, but the existing monitor works fine. But of course, nothing's ever that easy. [more inside]
posted by Marky at 4:13 PM PST - 10 comments

Recently, my WIN 10 computer's screen at startup has not been advancing beyond the manufacturer's and then the Windows logos. At first, the desktop image would flash after these momentarily, followed by a black screen with no cursor. If I remember correctly (following some suggestions I found online), at first hitting the power button on the keyboard one or more times might bring up the spinning dots and then the desktop and on to a login screen, and my session was then without further incident. Now doing that just leaves me with the black screen, unless... [more inside]
posted by tenderly at 3:05 PM PST - 4 comments

All questions asked on this platform typically get answered and get LOTS of in depth answers. Compare that to reddit, Quora etc. I feel like you don't get the same engagement. Why is that?
posted by oracleia at 2:30 PM PST - 42 comments

I just bought an old adobe home with two Kiva fireplaces. At some point it looks like fires were lit in them while the flue was closed because there are giant soot stains on the white clay plaster outside the upper part of the fireplace. Any tips for removing the stains? [more inside]
posted by egeanin at 1:48 PM PST - 3 comments

I'm not sure how to phrase this without coming across as ungenerous. My friends and I often offload to each other about our anxieties and problems. But on occasion, it gets too much and sends my emotions out of whack. And then I feel guilty for being ungenerous. How can I manage these situations better? [more inside]
posted by unicorn chaser at 1:16 PM PST - 16 comments

My kids, aged 7 and 9, spend a lot of time reading comic strip collections. We already have Peanuts, Moomin, and The Far Side. Calvin and Hobbes is on the list. What else would you recommend? [more inside]
posted by any portmanteau in a storm at 12:38 PM PST - 37 comments

I have an old cast iron bank with some moveable parts that is, well, racist. What is the right thing to do with it? [more inside]
posted by archimago at 11:51 AM PST - 17 comments

Are there any stories out there about whether it's possible/likely to find fulfillment and community online? [more inside]
posted by commander_fancypants at 11:45 AM PST - 11 comments

I’m casually organizing a low-key workout group for my company’s annual “wellness challenge”. How can I be a playful motivator for our team? [more inside]
posted by inatizzy at 8:58 AM PST - 9 comments

I have a fancy Bluetooth meat thermometer, and I need some new temperature probes for it. It's been discontinued, though, and I can't buy new probes from the manufacturer. Will any probe with the right sized jack do? [more inside]
posted by jordemort at 8:12 AM PST - 6 comments

I'm starting to think about buying my first home, and in addition to all the "official" advice, I've really enjoyed reading narratives and anecdotes about the home-buying process from those who have been through it. For example, I've absolutely devoured this series. Particularly if they're relatively recent, in HCOL markets, and from first-time home-buyers. The more topsy-turvy their search, the better. Do you have more for me? I'll take blogs, books, TikToks, anything.
posted by mosst at 7:54 AM PST - 6 comments

I'm a tall guy in search of footwear brands that sell shoes and boots in wide widths. [more inside]
posted by komara at 7:53 AM PST - 25 comments

Bought a house (yay!) but now I need to tell my wonderful amazing landlords that I'll be breaking my lease four months early to move in. What do I say? [more inside]
posted by coldbabyshrimp at 7:41 AM PST - 14 comments

I have destroyed three organic-pastured raised heirloom birds with my inability. Please save my poultry! Looking for tasty and foolproof roast chicken recipes. [more inside]
posted by pumpkinlatte at 7:35 AM PST - 32 comments

I like live music, I like pretty pictures, I particularly like the two things together. Please recommend awesome concert films that are also visually interesting. Ideally ones that dispense with backstage chit chat – I want tunes + pictures, straight up! [more inside]
posted by threecheesetrees at 1:36 AM PST - 25 comments

Where can I find numbers that show the number of depositions, decisions, denials, awards, dismissals, and reversed and or vacated cases of administrative law judges? Looking to find stats comparing those judges in different courts across the country.
posted by CollectiveMind at 1:28 AM PST - 7 comments

This to me is the most fundamental question about the human mind and emotions. As I see it, there are two "minds" or ways of being, and psychologists seem divided (at least it seems that way to me) about the correct way to use these "minds". I will illustrate the two minds through a scenario and then clarify my question. [more inside]
posted by oracleia at 12:47 AM PST - 14 comments

Trying to figure out if my partner's behavior stems from PTSD, alcoholism/sobriety, avoidant attachment style, life stressors, or falling out of love with me. [more inside]
posted by CancerSucks at 11:10 PM PST - 14 comments

Looking to hear from folks who have made a King mattress from two TwinXL's (North American theatre of operations). [more inside]
posted by armoir from antproof case at 9:13 PM PST - 14 comments

Is there a tool available that I can use with two or more folders of images and videos that will tell me when there are multiple copies of the same image or video in the folder? I'm trying to organize family photos and find that I have copies of the same images/videos in different folders. Bonus points if it can detect the same image/video in different resolutions.
posted by NoneOfTheAbove at 8:22 PM PST - 6 comments

What kind of soil is in this video of some people digging out a structure with simple tools? [more inside]
posted by Salvor Hardin at 7:11 PM PST - 9 comments

I have a usb memory stick that is having issues accessing certain files. When I connect it to computer on the first try it says please insert disk into usb drive. I then pull it out and re insert and it says there's a problem with the disk and gives me the option to scan and repair. I've tried that and it doesn't fix the issues which are...some files won't open. Some will but others won't. If I try to do the command prompt chckdisk: f: /f /r /x is there a chance I will lose data on the memory stick? I may just bring it in to a place to repair it but that's expensive. Is the command prompt method different from the scan and repair basic method? Do you think it might fix the problem or at least not make it worse? Any other suggestsion? Thanks!
posted by ljs30 at 3:51 PM PST - 6 comments

Looking for a LGBTQ+ friendly hairdresser in Ventura and a LGBTQ+ friendly tailor in Philadelphia - anyone know either? [more inside]
posted by Geameade at 2:58 PM PST - 4 comments

Someone I know who owns their house has been getting mail for someone with a different first name but same last name. [more inside]
posted by beyond_pink at 12:16 PM PST - 8 comments

I have two sabal palms in my backyard that I placed with the intent of hanging a hammock. Most of the straps I see on Amazon are designed around temporary camping use. Is there a certain strap I should use for this? I’m also getting conflicting information about whether it’s okay to put a lag bolt into a palm tree (since it’s not really a tree). Any insights? Thanks in advance!
posted by ftm at 11:26 AM PST - 6 comments

I haven't been out of NYC since 2019, but am not ready to fly, and I don't drive. Where can I go by train? I need to get out of this city and relax somewhere else. [more inside]
posted by Mavri at 10:44 AM PST - 19 comments

How to deal with an explosion of spoiled milk in the refrigerator? [more inside]
posted by medusa at 10:41 AM PST - 8 comments

Fake unemployment claims have been filed under my name in two states. I'm confused as to how this scam works for the scammer -- I assume they used my social security number, but why did they use my actual address? It was the letters from the 2 Departments of Labor to my home address with my claimant info that alerted me to the fraud, and today I even received a Visa debit card from the NJ Dept of Labor & Bank of America. [more inside]
posted by oh yeah! at 9:20 AM PST - 4 comments

I’m redecorating my home office and I would like to get a striped vinyl peel-and-stick room border in the colors of the Caldor rainbow. Nothing like this seems to exist, and I’d like to get one custom made. Is there a way to get a custom peel-and-stick room border made?
posted by pxe2000 at 8:28 AM PST - 4 comments

I have a PhD thesis and I have a publishing contract (due in a few months) for a book that is loosely based on the thesis. Each time I open the thesis I am feeling overwhelmed by the enormity of the task. How on earth can I change the turgid prose of the thesis into something normal people might want to read? [more inside]
posted by slimeline at 8:25 AM PST - 17 comments

I love how Pittsburgh as transformed itself into a much more bike friendly city than it was 20 years ago when i lived here! I'd love some help planning a short little bike trip with a new/slightly nervous biker in tow? [more inside]
posted by snowymorninblues at 7:40 AM PST - 3 comments

How do I recall more completely a life-changing, happy event and set of circumstances? [more inside]
posted by ragtimepiano at 3:36 AM PST - 11 comments

Severe night sweats have left my beloved T&N mattress stained and a little smelly. I'm not sure how to remove the stains or get that gym bag smell out without damaging the mattress structure, and the T&N website has been pretty useless in giving clear instructions on what they recommend. Do you have a tried and true solution for fixing mattresses of this type?
posted by Hermione Granger at 2:30 AM PST - 10 comments

Can you recommend an app or an online service that would generate a spectrograph (waveform) of a voice audio file? This would be used as a visual for a Facebook social post or for a blog multimedia post.
posted by DreamStar at 11:50 PM PST - 9 comments

If less rain falls in one place, does more rain eventually have to fall in another to compensate? Or could there be one year that was dryer than another everywhere on earth? What would a year like that look like? Where would that extra moisture go?
posted by nebulawindphone at 8:06 PM PST - 15 comments

Help me remember this amazing media-dense album from the mid-90's! [more inside]
posted by swift at 7:18 PM PST - 6 comments

When I was about 9 or 10 (about 2000-2001), I remember seeing a movie on TV about a wealthy businessman who is taken hostage and saved with the help of his dog. I'm pretty sure it was on Animal Planet. One scene I (vaguely) remember was the owner sending a message to his family by "videophone" (long before FaceTime and even Skype were widespread) while being held hostage, possibly from his limousine. What movie could this have been? I looked up Animal Planet originals and nothing rang a bell. (The Retrievers is from this era, but from the trailer, seems way more upbeat than I remember.)
posted by Seeking Direction at 6:50 PM PST - 3 comments

Our problem- central air is turning on very intermittently and getting nowhere near our temp target. Landlord had someone come and look at it yesterday and they said nothing was wrong with it, but it's goddamned hot in here. [more inside]
posted by marvelousmellitus at 2:27 PM PST - 14 comments

I'm looking for casual cycling shoes, but I have really, really wide feet. [more inside]
posted by pdb at 2:13 PM PST - 9 comments

My migraines have been getting worse and more frequent and my doctor has suggested prophylactic amitriptyline. Have you taken this drug for this reason? Can you share your experience with me? [more inside]
posted by stillmoving at 1:25 PM PST - 21 comments

I kept seeing an ad on Instagram about a month or two ago that was advertising really cute, colorful, retro roller skates. I meant to buy some but stopped seeing the ads and forget the name. They were like yellow/orange, blue/pink… Any ideas?
posted by jitterbug perfume at 12:29 PM PST - 5 comments

I cycle a lot for commuting/errands as well as fun/exercise in a relatively flat city, with most of my rides being under 30min. I’ve never focused on endurance and haven’t monitored my heart rate until recently. This summer, on an extended visit in a place with actual topography, I'm trying some endurance training. In this hilly landscape I’m seeing my heart rate varies considerably over the course of a ride, but averages about 93% of max, which is well above target heart rate. Is this too high? Details: [more inside]
posted by theory at 11:40 AM PST - 11 comments

I have a sort of classic bathtub faucet with a square shape where the water comes out. Here and here are pictures of the faucet. I want to know if there is an adapter that I can put on it and attach a garden hose to the adapter. [more inside]
posted by DMelanogaster at 10:40 AM PST - 11 comments

I've just got my first Pfizer shot, and I'm feeling a strong need to mark this occasion. Both in a public way, to help spread the message that being vaccinated is normal and good, and privately, just for myself, as it feels like such an important event. Did you feel this way too, and what did you do about it? [more inside]
posted by Zumbador at 9:26 AM PST - 40 comments

A lot of people are loudly decrying the covid vaccine as a conspiracy or otherwise bad. Is there any info (preferably reliable) on whether or not they are vaccinated? I’ve seen many articles about these people & what they are saying, but no mention of their vaccination status.
posted by 2 cats in the yard at 8:14 AM PST - 8 comments

I absolutely love this Grateful Dead poster/canvas set. But in the last picture in the product description, it shows something you have to do with PVC pipe. Maybe it's used to unroll and/or stretch out the pieces? I really just can't visualize what I would need to do once I open the package and unfortunately there are no reviews to explain it. If anyone can interpret what the actual instructions would be, I will be able to decide if it is worth ordering. (I fear it might be cheaper looking than the image suggests but it's so cute I'm hoping not!)
posted by Neely O'Hara at 7:06 AM PST - 5 comments

I'm trying to navigate the world of EVs and plug in hybrids. It's been hard to compare apples to apples. Attempts to find deals turn up false leads, but also, it seems like the dealer sites include high prices followed by $13k of discounts. And inventory seems maybe super low? What websites and approaches did you use to compare real prices? Where do you think the sweet spot of value is? [more inside]
posted by Spokane at 2:15 AM PST - 14 comments

Where did I see an article stating that tourniquets are no longer recommended for certain types of injuries? [more inside]
posted by Dansaman at 12:15 AM PST - 5 comments

I'm an American living in the UK. I was accepted into an apprenticeship programme, only to then be rejected because the partner university won't accept my high school math qualifications as equivalent to GCSE maths. No one from the university will speak to me directly. Who can I contact to get a complaint about this taken seriously? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 11:20 PM PST - 13 comments

My wife and I need to buy a new set of tires for her car. What should we know before we go to the tire store so that we're not taken for a ride?
posted by Fister Roboto at 9:27 PM PST - 17 comments

Mickey Mantle sounds just like one side of my family sounded like. It was an older generation born about 10-15 years before him, but they said words like "Detroit," much like he did along with the same cadence. Is there a name for this accent? [more inside]
posted by geoff. at 6:33 PM PST - 8 comments

My 5-year-old is having some trouble separating reality from fiction in movies/on TV. We've been explaining that they're actors, they're just pretending, but even the slightest hint of danger/menace/spookiness with real-people actors (cartoons are fine) and she gets very upset, and then she gets MORE upset that she can't watch the show she wants to watch. I'd like to show her some behind-the-scenes videos so she can understand what "they're actors pretending" means. Specifics within. [more inside]
posted by Eyebrows McGee at 4:05 PM PST - 25 comments

Sure, if I went to the drive-in in 1978 I'd likely see Grease and perhaps a re-release of Star Wars and if I was lucky (unlucky depending on one's point of view) Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, but what are some deeper cuts? [more inside]
posted by Senor Cardgage at 3:33 PM PST - 51 comments

I have an acquaintance who is an actor/stage fighter/choreographer who has recently made a post stating that, in work environments, she prefers to go solely by her last name. It seems very important to her. Of course I will comply. But. [more inside]
posted by jitterbug perfume at 3:25 PM PST - 18 comments

Can anyone recommend a radio repair shop in Southeastern NH? My beloved Tivoli model two is dying.
posted by Raybun at 3:14 PM PST - 3 comments

I've got a few related tax questions, and I'm not sure where to go to the get the answers. This relates to sharing custody of my kid and who claims him as a dependent, and also figuring out what my actual 2020 tax return looks like. If I need to talk to a tax accountant, that's fine, and I'd welcome tips on finding a good one, but perhaps you all can shed some light in the meantime. [more inside]
posted by bluedaisy at 1:35 PM PST - 5 comments

Hey! I like writing. I also like the internet. This can be an issue at times. I want to build an internet-free computer for writing, as cheaply as possible, and I don't like the look of Hemingwrite-type devices. I imagine that the ideal option is buying a cheap laptop, and transferring writing between it and my regular laptop via USB as needed. But what are the ideal specs? How do I do this?
posted by insteadofapricots at 1:30 PM PST - 23 comments

I want to buy a used projector for 1) showing powerpoints in a small group class setting and 2) (not essential but would be nice) showing outdoor movies with friends. I live in a Mac computer universe if that matters for compatibility. I know nothing about projectors and Consumer Reports doesn't seem to rate them. Can you help either recommend some brands or even point me to specific listings on Ebay?
posted by latkes at 1:19 PM PST - 9 comments

I just bought this nice piano bench (pics here). [more inside]
posted by SaltySalticid at 1:15 PM PST - 9 comments

Baby it's hot outside. So, I run my central air conditioning. It is so hot outside that whether I set the temp to 70 or 75, it will run all the time. So, if it is running all the time, does it matter what temperature it is set to in terms of power usage or cost? Is there any incentive to set the temperature higher if it is going to run regardless?
posted by AugustWest at 12:25 PM PST - 12 comments

...and, because I'm not a man, it drives me nuts. I really don't want to change my appearance. Is there any way for me to be okay with the situation? [more inside]
posted by whistle pig at 11:25 AM PST - 44 comments

I have a close friend of seven years and at times, the friendship seems one-sided, being that, this friend constantly talks about her issues and accomplishments, and I listen and give encouragement all the time. Yet, when I bring something up of my own issue or uncertainties, the feedback is minimal. [more inside]
posted by RearWindow at 11:10 AM PST - 11 comments

I want to know if others have this problem, and especially if anyone's found a solution. I have a diagnosed anxiety disorder and have been very open about it with the people in my life, including what my triggers and treatments are. This has led to additional support, which is great. It's also led to some people discounting any problem I have, as if it's just my overblown anxiety talking. Examples below the fold. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 10:48 AM PST - 8 comments

I inherited some money from my aunt, in the form of an IRA. I'd like to use some or all of that money as a down payment on a house, but since it's an IRA, my understanding is that I'd end up paying a penalty for withdrawing it early. I know pretty much nothing about finances, and trying to read stuff online often makes me more confused. What's the best way for me to use this money to buy a house while incurring the smallest possible penalty? Is there a way? [more inside]
posted by kevinbelt at 10:40 AM PST - 16 comments

I've started exercising for 15 minutes in the morning, at home, with no equipment. There are lots of videos for this purpose but most of them drive me crazy because they act like this should be fun and enjoyable. Any beginner workout videos that acknowledge that it sucks but you're gonna do it anyway, or at least aren't so peppy about it? [more inside]
posted by brook horse at 9:04 AM PST - 19 comments

I have a couple of questions around my (beginner-level) houseplants. [more inside]
posted by unicorn chaser at 8:56 AM PST - 7 comments

My roommate and I are hairy beasts, and our bathtub drain is slow. We are also idiots when it comes to plumbing, and all the internet seems to say is either use one teaspoon of Liquid Plumbr or call an expensive service, with little in between. Questions inside! [more inside]
posted by Melismata at 8:09 AM PST - 31 comments

I would like to figure out which edition or editions of the Baltimore catechism I was taught from as a child and purchase copies. Is there any kind of definitive list? [more inside]
posted by FencingGal at 7:42 AM PST - 3 comments

So, I'm almost in Canada. I'm leaving on August 8th, I'm headed to Kingston, ON. This has been a long time in the making, probably been planning this move since 2018. I got into grad school in CS last year and well, here I am. [more inside]
posted by Tarsonis10 at 7:00 AM PST - 24 comments

We're going to the vet next week, but I am hoping that other mefites will have some experiences to share. [more inside]
posted by Frowner at 6:43 AM PST - 11 comments

Is this sentence grammatically correct, wrong, or somewhere in between: "I like to go ride my bike sometimes." [more inside]
posted by zardoz at 3:14 AM PST - 49 comments

I have a jar of orange marmalade in the fridge. I also have a jar of fig and orange spread in the fridge. What are some tasty recipes I can use these in? [more inside]
posted by rouftop at 10:23 PM PST - 9 comments

I desperately want to listen to Piranesi by Susanna Clarke because it's a Hugo nominee this year, and I would like to listen to it in audiobook format because it won an audiobook award. I don't want to shop at Amazon/Audible. My library doesn't have it, and I can't find any libraries that do. Is there any place to buy or borrow this audiobook without using Amazon?
posted by henuani at 8:33 PM PST - 17 comments

My community garden is being evicted to develop the land for housing. I planted a few trees there a few years ago and they are too large to move now. They will be cut down. Is there a way to nab a branch and make some clones? [more inside]
posted by Toddles at 8:09 PM PST - 8 comments

Looking for a daily international-focused world news and features program in video format, ideally accessible with a Roku or on Youtube. Thoughtful reporting, longer segments and a generally neutral tone. In short, something like public radio's The World, but on TV. Any suggestions?
posted by iamisaid at 7:51 PM PST - 3 comments

We have this little area which used to be my son’s playroom. He’s not really using it that way anymore and I would like to turn it into a home office where I can keep my computer and he can have a little drawing/homework desk. Looking for ideas on the best way to set it up! [more inside]
posted by ficbot at 7:39 PM PST - 3 comments

This is a follow up to my previous question. Since then, I have switched insurance providers to Kaiser, and visited a Kaiser specialist in person to have my ear examined. I was given two options, one as an external (non-Kaiser) referral, and the other internally (with Kaiser). Things are a bit stuck in limbo (both medical and financially), and I want advice on how to proceed. [more inside]
posted by dubious_dude at 7:35 PM PST - 3 comments

Monique is rich. Her neighbors are not. The neighbor girl (Laura) is in community college and plans to transfer to a 4 year college and get a degree in Underwater Nuclear Basket Engineering. Monique is a retired basket engineer and has decided that she wishes to pay for Laura’s education. Everyone seems to be okay with this idea. But none of us are tax lawyers. [more inside]
posted by Vatnesine at 6:52 PM PST - 9 comments

After about five years of trying to find an explanation for my constant tiredness, I've at last been given a diagnosis that makes sense to me: a respirologist has diagnosed me with upper airway resistance syndrome (a relative of obstructive sleep apnea). He's given me some exercises for my tongue and upper airway. I'd love to hear from other people who've had this diagnosis. What has worked for you? [more inside]
posted by HoraceH at 5:03 PM PST - 7 comments

In Muriel Spark's Loitering with Intent, set in London in the 1950s, the main character "rattles the phone to gain attention" when she makes a phone call and gets no reply. What does this mean? [more inside]
posted by hoist with his own pet aardvark at 4:55 PM PST - 8 comments

I am looking for resources (books, blog posts, communities, honestly whatever) on planning a life with a disability and coming to accept that that life will look different from what you thought growing up; overcoming internal ableism and accepting your limitations; shaping a life that accommodates your disability, in the workplace as well as at home. I am also interested in reading about how people live with chronic pain or fatigue and how they manage their perspective on it. Thank you!
posted by snerson at 4:18 PM PST - 3 comments

An international development consulting firm (we are both in the USA) is interested in adding me to a proposal that's due next Friday, and is asking for my participation in a "design session" in the next week and potentially a "technical presentation" if the proposal goes into the next round of review. This feels a hell of a lot like writing the grant one's own salary gets paid from, which I learned early on was a major no-no. Is this normal? How should I respond? More details below. [more inside]
posted by rrrrrrrrrt at 3:42 PM PST - 10 comments

I'm looking for inspiration for designing some family-focused science events or experiences that will happen online and I'd love to hear about examples of live or on demand online experiences that you and your family have enjoyed in the last year. [more inside]
posted by cholly at 3:27 PM PST - 1 comment

We're moving into a new house, and my 12-yr-old daughter will finally have her own bedroom. She wants to turn one of the walls into a big painting canvas. I love to encourage her artistic side but...I have reservations. [more inside]
posted by gottabefunky at 3:12 PM PST - 65 comments

I Love helping people in excel. I notice, two years into my current job, that about 30 people ask me for help in excel in the regular, and I'm formally training about 50/year in hour long sessions. I just love it. But how can I /should I monetize it? [more inside]
posted by bbqturtle at 3:07 PM PST - 13 comments

In 2014 I read an article about a software dev who posited that devs don't simply solve problems, rather, they have insights and breakthroughs. They recommended reading Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain, which they said helped them with software development (maybe graphic design?). [more inside]
posted by blahtsk at 3:02 PM PST - 4 comments

My 2005 6cyl Honda Hybrid has failed DEQ inspection because the hybrid battery didn't pass. A new battery is approx $5000. And I'm told Honda dealerships must now program the car to the battery as opposed to in before times when repair shops could do it. The car still runs great but its now illegal to drive until it passes inspection. [more inside]
posted by CollectiveMind at 2:51 PM PST - 5 comments

I run a site which accepts (paypal) donations to help with expenses. Not a lot of folks donate, but someone recently asked if they could donate cryptocurrency (not sure which currency). Is there an easy way for me to allow this without becoming enmeshed in some byzantine or sketchy ecosystem? [more inside]
posted by maxwelton at 2:42 PM PST - 3 comments

I want to learn how to sew. On a sewing machine. I have been roundly discouraged from this pursuit in the past, as it is "old-fashioned" and "you can just go buy what you need." Call me old-fashioned and poky, then, I don't care anymore! I am well versed in the art of sewing by hand, but that sort of thing takes *too damn long* if you want, say, curtains by the end of the next century. I'm not a medieval seamstress! [more inside]
posted by Armed Only With Hubris at 1:40 PM PST - 31 comments

A recent situation with a guy where I constantly undervalued myself/based my happiness on him and the frequency of his texts and interaction has unraveled me. It is not that he was openly manipulative but a lot of our “relationship” on his terms (and time). I’m looking for feminist non fiction (fiction is ok too) that will help me realise that I need to value myself and stop wondering about what he or other guys think of me. [more inside]
posted by bigyellowtaxi at 1:34 PM PST - 9 comments

Asking for a friend. It's for a real estate promo piece which lists: the number of homes sold (I guess in a certain period), the average [number of] days [those homes were] on the market, and... Average Sale Price $0,000,000 or Average Sales Price $0,000,000?
posted by TWinbrook8 at 1:31 PM PST - 8 comments

I've recently started working as a manager of a non-profit-ish organization (I need to be vague, but think public service). It turns out that the previous manager let go due to poor conduct, to put it nicely. I've kind of inherited a mess because of this and I don't really KNOW where to begin or how to wrap my head around walking into a shit storm. This is also my first managerial position. Gulp. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 1:12 PM PST - 22 comments

When I was living in Singapore in the mid-1980s, I had access to a great used bookshop. I plowed through it, buying and selling back tons of books, and I'm wanting to find one of them. Actually, finding one feels like it may lead to finding them all. [more inside]
posted by PussKillian at 12:24 PM PST - 7 comments

When I travel by airplane I like to sit in a window seat and look out. Is there an app or website that will tell me the flight path for my flight and some sort of time stamp that will tell me what I'm looking at during the flight? [more inside]
posted by museum nerd at 11:55 AM PST - 8 comments

A couple of weeks ago, I bought a pair of Apple's Powerbeats Pro headphones. The sound is great, but the noise isolation is terrible to non-existent. (I also find them very difficult to put on.) I’m going to give them to my husband because he works from home and doesn’t care about noise isolation, but I need a new pair. What are my options? [more inside]
posted by holborne at 11:53 AM PST - 13 comments

We have an appointment with a family therapist, for two weeks from now, for some issues that came to a head last weekend, but could use a little help in the meantime. [more inside]
posted by Archipelago at 11:29 AM PST - 6 comments

I saw an English journalist tweet about nearly empty grocery store shelves in the UK, and went looking for more news about it, and found this BBC report about its causes, as well as some news reports about industry worries. But I haven't found any reporting online about how widespread the problem is. I asked my sister who lives in London, and her local shop has been stocked as normal, except for certain fruits. Is this only a problem in some parts of the country, or is this a nationwide problem?
posted by Kattullus at 10:55 AM PST - 13 comments

So the way our org does its work is in weeks. Week 23 we're doing X. Week 25 we start Y. I'm using a generic G-calendar for it but the view is just ridiculously cluttered. IS there some sort of collaborative program or platform that offers this very simple way to look at the world and plan for it?
posted by rileyray3000 at 10:16 AM PST - 9 comments

I've been dealing with ADHD, depression, and anxiety for years now with therapy and medication. Meanwhile, my psychiatrist has been giving me gentle nudges in the direction of looking at all this as a consequence of trauma. In the last couple of months I've finally read about C-PTSD, and come to the realization that I am likely a classic case of childhood emotional neglect. Unfortunately, this breakthrough is now making life extremely hard for me- particularly with work. Looking for perspectives and experience. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 9:43 AM PST - 20 comments

I am a consultant. My client and I both have Google accounts, how can we arrange it so that they can see my work product in progress? Complicating factor we both work with Microsoft documents (word, excel) but we don't need real time collaboration. [more inside]
posted by muddgirl at 9:02 AM PST - 2 comments

Why are San Marzano tomatoes so hard to come by in the UK? [more inside]
posted by terretu at 6:24 AM PST - 9 comments

I thought I'd ask Metafilter this, as I don't have much experience with Goodreads and I'm a little shocked at what's happening there. My debut novel is coming out in a few weeks' time, which I'm delighted about. People having been requesting ARCs and reviewing it (I guess mostly book bloggers), and the reviews are truly bad – mostly 1 and 2 stars so far. I'm finding it incredibly depressing and it's really getting to me. Advice wanted about how to deal with it – thank you! [more inside]
posted by Ella_Bella at 5:54 AM PST - 56 comments

I've tried searching Mac help forums, but the answers there all don't help. I've had two problems crop up since a required update on my work computer to Big Sur and I am being driven absolutely bonkers. IT is nice but not incredibly helpful as I am remote. Please help. [more inside]
posted by Medieval Maven at 5:37 AM PST - 6 comments

Occassionally, my mom needs a hardcopy of things. She doesn't have a computer nor does she want to deal with printers anyways. Is there a reliable service I can email a document to and have them (postal) mail a printout to her. Is there another solution I am not thinking of? In this case its an airline ticket she wants printed.
posted by vacapinta at 3:14 AM PST - 18 comments

I ran across this chess problem and... I can't follow the given solution. Is there a chess program where you input the notation and it illustrates the moves? I have looked on LiChess but not found anything... Puzzle below - [more inside]
posted by From Bklyn at 2:27 AM PST - 4 comments

The newest grandchild is delightful but a light sleeper. Irish Coast and other wave scapes from MyNoise.net app send her and KEEP her asleep. Currently, I am losing my phone to her crib. How can we set up an independent speaker to run sea sounds to her crib without tying up our various devices? Or should we just get a very old iphone?
posted by dorothyisunderwood at 11:25 PM PST - 8 comments

When the GMail page is loaded (or reloaded) on my Mom's iMac, it defaults to hiding her "Important and unread" emails. I very much need to fix this for her. [more inside]
posted by blueberry at 10:20 PM PST - 11 comments

It was about how people today (and any time in history) look back on their ancestors and see all the things they did that are now considered immoral and wrong, and that people generally think that individuals become better as time goes on - as in, people today are inherently or by practice more moral than people of 100 years ago, on average. [more inside]
posted by sillysally at 9:48 PM PST - 1 comment

I remember hearing about a Boston/Cambridge-area startup that used AI to transcribe community hearings, public meetings, etc. I've googled variations on this phrase and can't find the company. Does anyone know its name?
posted by Rich Text at 9:48 PM PST - 2 comments

My elderly dog has a tumour on the spleen. The vet found it during a checkup for some short but persistant nosebleeds. The vet recommended euthanasia but dog seems otherwise ok... how do you decide when it is time? [more inside]
posted by cyml at 9:04 PM PST - 18 comments

Trans person here. I have never quite fit the binary, and am no longer trying to hide it. Therefore, I live with an amount of verbal harassment. Mostly on the level of one or two comments being shouted at me. So far my strategy is to pretend I can’t hear them. In an ideal world I would do something that would make them stop… [more inside]
posted by rip at 8:29 PM PST - 18 comments

I need to go somewhere comfortable and chill the hell out for a few days. My wish list:

• Within ~a day's travel from Oakland CA or Portland OR
• Close proximity to nature
• Comfortable areas to sit and read/write/think
• Has character; not a generic luxury hotel
• Not currently experiencing 100° weather or wildfire smoke
• Limited internet connectivity is a bonus
• Not booked solid for months and months is a bonus

[more inside]
posted by introcosm at 7:37 PM PST - 15 comments

I have Sonos speakers in two other rooms in my house, and a sound bar in the living room. How do I convince Sonos to ALWAYS play through all three? [more inside]
posted by Charity Garfein at 7:18 PM PST - 7 comments

I have a small pond to demuck, 30 by 90 feet, and it's deep enough that I think it could be a great little swimming hole. It has an inflow of fresh water and a nice outflow of overflow, but it's filled with a few significant feet of what is commonly called pond muck. What is to be done? [more inside]
posted by history is a weapon at 6:14 PM PST - 6 comments

I have google voice which I almost always have on "do not disturb". This had worked fine, until recently when it has stopped working. How can I fix it? [more inside]
posted by bearette at 5:38 PM PST - 2 comments

My parents got me a 10 quart instant pot duo nova for my birthday and I'm lost. So lost. [more inside]
posted by atomicstone at 5:19 PM PST - 17 comments

My current sunscreen now only comes in 4 oz tubes which works out to a LOT of plastic waste since I'm on my bike for a ton of hours every week. Can you recommend a sunscreen that meets my needs and comes in a big container? [more inside]
posted by introp at 5:18 PM PST - 16 comments

Asking for a friend. Periodically they receive BIG and mind-blowing news. This news has to be kept secret from specific family. They have tried journaling to keep a lid on the excitement, but they still end up oversharing later and this causes them trouble. Family in this case can't be avoided for now. Are there methods that work better than journaling? Are there fairly anonymous services you can call to share about things? Thanks for any tips.
posted by circular at 4:47 PM PST - 15 comments

So this is a continuation of my last question. To start my previous employer wants me to stay with them I used work for them at their offices in my home country(not the US). However this situation is particularly unique and I am at a loss on how to deal with it. I have some questions about it. [more inside]
posted by Tarsonis10 at 4:16 PM PST - 7 comments

I would like to see all of Shakespeare's plays performed live. Resources, inspiration, ideas to help/guide/inspire me on this journey? [more inside]
posted by Gray Duck at 3:56 PM PST - 12 comments

I have severe cataracts in both eyes (along with other visual issues) and have opted for laser surgery. To my surprise, I was offered the possibility of having the surgery on two consecutive days. (This is at the very reputable Herzig Eye Institute in Toronto, by the way.) [more inside]
posted by uans at 3:56 PM PST - 8 comments

I have to have an unpleasant medical procedure done. I have terrible anxiety with regard to this kind of invasive procedure. General anesthetic also worries me for health reasons. What are the best treatments for medical procedure related anxiety - what has worked for you? [more inside]
posted by Flitcraft at 2:15 PM PST - 18 comments

Do you have any suggestions of novels from the last 2-3 years that are not from famous authors somewhere in the range of social critique and modern science fantasy? (More details inside.) [more inside]
posted by past unusual at 1:47 PM PST - 17 comments

I cannot get a time calculation to work in Excel (Microsoft 365) and it's driving me a little batty. [more inside]
posted by Bebo at 11:56 AM PST - 6 comments

I would like to hear from members who have lost and more importantly kept off a significant amount of weight over a period of a few years. Context below the fold. [more inside]
posted by Nieshka at 11:53 AM PST - 28 comments

I'm having no luck so far finding a place to live in Denver. I only just arrived in town and just need a single room (with roommate(s)), and the queries I've sent from ads I have seen have only come back with silence. Looking for resources/approaches to help my search. [more inside]
posted by cats are weird at 10:26 AM PST - 12 comments

I am helping organize an 8-12 session narrative medicine workshop. Looking for prose, poems, etc. that touch on themes of medicine, healing, death, dying, humanities etc. that are written by non-white poets and queer and trans poets! [more inside]
posted by allymusiqua at 9:54 AM PST - 12 comments

How compatible are sociology and psychology? Or put another way, does sociology dismiss psychology? Or is there room for and interest in the psychological? [more inside]
posted by swheatie at 9:43 AM PST - 6 comments

My 3 year old is obsessed with the Diary of a Pug books - cute graphic novels that are meant for 6 year olds. Suggest more like this? [more inside]
posted by nouvelle-personne at 9:30 AM PST - 14 comments

How do I decide which SUV/car to rent in order to accommodate a large irregular item? Is there a tool that lets me visual automotive cargo space? [more inside]
posted by taltalim at 8:56 AM PST - 15 comments

We're starting to think about buying a house. Since we have kids, that means we're looking at "good" school districts, which is another way of saying not the school district we currently live in. But I don't have any firsthand experience with good schools. I went to a bad school. And yet I turned out pretty OK! So what benefits might my kids get from a good school? [more inside]
posted by kevinbelt at 8:38 AM PST - 51 comments

I made Italian sausage and peppers last night and forgot to put the leftovers away. Particulars: made with fresh Italian sausage, lots of veggies, put it from the pan into a covered Pyrex, left it on the counter for 12 hours. Can I eat this?
posted by tatiana wishbone at 7:31 AM PST - 29 comments

My most recent post was the Ashenden adaptation the BBC did a while ago. What other BBC treasures are currently available on YouTube? [more inside]
posted by wittgenstein at 7:01 AM PST - 6 comments

I don't know if such a product exists that would be a single solution to my problem, I'll probably need at least two devices to solve this problem, but I'm trying to keep it from getting too crazy... I have a desktop computer setup with dual monitors (1080p only, over HDMI) on arms mounted to my desk and very nice keyboard and mouse set up. I just got a new laptop and would like to figure out the easiest way to dock to my laptop to use the keyboard, mouse, and dual monitors while still being able to easily go back to desktop mode with all those same peripherals. Does such a solution exist or will I have to get both a KVM and Dock and a whole mess of cables?
posted by gzimmer at 6:34 AM PST - 7 comments

My company has given me access to a "career coach" but I don't know what to use them for. I have 5 1 hour sessions coming up, the intro meeting was great - but I don't know where to go from here. [more inside]
posted by Farce_First at 5:24 AM PST - 8 comments

Technical writers and software people of Metafilter: I'm looking for advice, tips and best practices on how to write a diagnostic manual for a software application. The document would be similar to what you get with your home appliances. How one goes about writing one like that? How to order the material, how to structure the diagnostic steps? [more inside]
posted by kmt at 12:35 AM PST - 11 comments

These days streaming rules everything around us, but I still have a collection of movies on my computer's HD that I'd like to be able to stream to my cell phone for ease of viewing. What are good options? [more inside]
posted by wooh at 10:36 PM PST - 10 comments

Looking for hard data on the benefits of raw or homemade vs. kibble diets for my dog. [more inside]
posted by vanitas at 9:33 PM PST - 21 comments

I hate our bathtub mat. I regularly curse its children and its children's children, as my feet slip off of it and bump against the walls of the tub whenever I dare to use any slick products while showering. [more inside]
posted by Flock of Cynthiabirds at 3:12 PM PST - 5 comments

I moved to a new place and was shocked last week to get a my first bill there from ConEd at the new apartment for +$290 for gas (+~$60 for electricity) for a month of usage. This is a NYC ~500 sq ft apartment 1br / 1 person. [more inside]
posted by artificialard at 2:47 PM PST - 29 comments

Any Mefites familiar with the taxi/Uber/Lyft/etc. situation on Hawaii's Big Island? [more inside]
posted by BlahLaLa at 11:18 AM PST - 8 comments

Looking for recommendations for websites or stores where I can purchase really good coffee beans. [more inside]
posted by sharp pointy objects at 10:53 AM PST - 29 comments

I'm not up to speed on current Macbook offerings, and my mom called me for a recommendation. What keywords should I be looking for? [more inside]
posted by DoubleLune at 9:47 AM PST - 11 comments

What is the Nantucket Project? [more inside]
posted by xo at 9:22 AM PST - 5 comments

I'm looking for a new A5, hardcover, square grid notebook for a bullet journal. I've enjoyed one from Minimalism Art this year and am tempted to order another, but would love more choice in cover color. Any suggestions? More info & other notebooks I've tried inside. [more inside]
posted by wiskunde at 7:33 AM PST - 16 comments

In a couple weeks I will be driving solo from Boston to Indianapolis, with an overnight stop in Cleveland. I'll drive back from Indianapolis via Hershey, PA. I would like to find some interesting but brief stops along the way. [more inside]
posted by bondcliff at 7:30 AM PST - 24 comments

Why would my non neurotypical 5 year old have adequate speech with peers but avoid speaking with adults and be minimally verbal with them? And how is that a possible factor in the classroom? [more inside]
posted by pairofshades at 1:24 AM PST - 22 comments

How can an introvert feel less depleted of energy from interactions with other people? [more inside]
posted by Dansaman at 12:49 AM PST - 30 comments

I'm looking for online communities (forums, discord, anything really) where people sort of engage in/share sexual energy, but are still organized as communities where people aren't just like, anonymously sharing porn all the time. Snowflake details within! [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 11:07 PM PST - 7 comments

"Biking is the most efficient transportation." Be more specific, and/or cite your reliable source. [more inside]
posted by aniola at 7:32 PM PST - 13 comments

I'm living with an immunocompromised person, so my vaccinated self and a vaccinated friend would like to meet somewhere outdoors. I would also like to avoid grass/ticks and water/mosquitoes. Are there wide-paved trails or restaurants with extra-spaced outdoor seating, somewhere approximately halfway between Chicago and Normal, Illinois? Unremarkable but ok restaurants, as well as especially weird/cool suggestions, are welcome.
posted by zeek321 at 7:07 PM PST - 2 comments

I’ve started making chia puddings. When I make this pudding, I’ve noticed that the top congeals into a 3-4” thick skin and there’s another inch or so of chocolate milk at the bottom. How can I get it to congeal all the way through? [more inside]
posted by pxe2000 at 5:28 PM PST - 3 comments

I'm brainstorming a sci-fi concept where a city has a complex network of aerial tramway cables suspended above it. These cables intersect at various junctions which allow an operator inside the gondola to change directions by switching from one cable to another. Basically steering. I assume this is wildly impossible, otherwise I'd be able to find some example of this already existing in real life. But can we conceive of some method that (with some handwaving) could make for plausible fiction?
posted by The Winsome Parker Lewis at 4:30 PM PST - 23 comments

A friend is helping her parents make repairs to help keep their house from being condemned. She asked if anyone knows of a good-human building inspector in Sumner County, near Millersville, TN. Thought I'd take a chance on the hive mind - any leads would be much appreciated!
posted by rrrrrrrrrt at 4:00 PM PST - 3 comments

My friend has a rising 5th grader and is very concerned about in person schooling. Her daughter has really struggled with staying focused in virtual public school in 2020-2021 school year, but some of that could be down to the limited number of hours of synchronous learning and limited one on one support built in to that experience. This all got me to thinking, surely there are some very participatory sorts of private virtual school options available for students in this situation? obviously in person would be ..ideal.. but surely there are many families for whom it is still simply not a comfortable option.. So .. do you all have any leads? [more inside]
posted by elgee at 3:32 PM PST - 7 comments

'Foreign' film - not English, maybe Russian - Brief plot overview - the film starts with the young boy walking around his village traumatised while German soldiers kill villagers. Joins partisan band and film traces his story. [more inside]
posted by Quillcards at 1:06 PM PST - 7 comments

I want to find a not-smartphone type phone (like an old-style flip-phone) that works on AT&T's 5G network that is *not* the AT&T Cingular Flip IV (which is the only 5G flip-phone they list for sale. (but the AT&T tech I talked to said I could buy an AT&T-compatible phone elsewhere (AMZ, Best-Buy, etc) that would work on their network.) Details inside. [more inside]
posted by rmd1023 at 12:21 PM PST - 14 comments

Help me find the right mindset or strategy to get through this [more inside]
posted by winterportage at 11:54 AM PST - 20 comments

I'm looking for a fun summer vacation spot in between metro Boston (where I live) and Northern NJ (Short Hills area, where my siblings& their kids live). The Catskills could work but I've had a hard time searching there. There will be 3 families with 5 adults and 7 children, ages 4 months to 8 years. I'm finding it relatively easy to search for single hotel rooms but harder to search for a group. Hence my question to all of you to see if there's a place where you've had a good experience. [more inside]
posted by scottso17 at 11:38 AM PST - 6 comments

I posted an item for free on Craigslist and think I got scammed, but I don't understand how or what they're going to do with the information they got from me. [more inside]
posted by vakker at 11:31 AM PST - 16 comments

I'm trying to find audio of a public radio conversation in the last ten years in which a host talked about the unintentionally erotic nature of binding women to railroad tracks in classic Hollywood movies and TV shows.
posted by ABlanca at 11:21 AM PST - 3 comments

I have a large quantity of unneeded gabapentin. Should I throw it away, or is there something else to do with it? [more inside]
posted by davidstandaford at 11:04 AM PST - 15 comments

Looking for examples of art like Subway Doodle that combine cartoony fantastic creatures with photographic urban backdrops. Thanks in advance!
posted by roger ackroyd at 10:51 AM PST - 4 comments

How do I give away cake? Details inside. [more inside]
posted by WalkerWestridge at 10:27 AM PST - 17 comments

for my 6 year old. There seem to be a lot more treatments available in the US. Would like advice on getting stuff shipped, avoiding it getting caught up in customs and on perhaps finding some ingredients to prepare a treatment myself. [more inside]
posted by melamakarona at 9:55 AM PST - 14 comments

I'm going to Mexico City next week. What's the situation related to COVID right now? [more inside]
posted by something something at 9:31 AM PST - 2 comments

I'm getting married in the later half of the year and need a wedding band (men's) for myself. I have what appears to be a wedding band that was with my late father's possessions, but it doesn't appear to have been his. More inside. [more inside]
posted by jzb at 8:27 AM PST - 23 comments

We are heading up for our first trip to Alaska at the end of August. The wrinkle is that we rented a camper van for the whole trip! We're backpack and tent people, so this is all very new to us. Help us plan our time on the Kenai Peninsula. [more inside]
posted by Don_K at 7:40 AM PST - 7 comments

I’m looking for examples of series (they can be unconnected books by many different authors) “presented” by another author. I know about: [more inside]
posted by CMcG at 3:59 AM PST - 22 comments

I'm 5'4 and 150 pounds but really, really, really want to be comfortable at an upcoming funeral. [more inside]
posted by A Terrible Llama at 3:51 AM PST - 37 comments

Mini dancinglamb will be departing for college in a matter of weeks and we are trying to figure out the best way to handle financial needs from several states away. [more inside]
posted by dancinglamb at 12:00 AM PST - 43 comments

Several days ago, during a trip to Puerto Rico (from the continental US), I noticed a collection of raised bumps/hair follicles in a few clusters on my front thighs; they were not itchy and I assumed it was a temporary allergic reaction to something. However, in the next few days, they started to spread up and down the backs of my legs, up and down the back of my arms, and for the first time this morning I noticed two patches of the bumps on the side of my torso. Initial attempts to address do not seem to be helping. Next steps? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 11:16 PM PST - 15 comments

Hi, so a kid of ours has done some rebellious but not objectively terrible stuff while unattended on their PC, e.g. installing games that are specifically forbidden. What are some methods you are familiar with to check in on their ongoing use, such as viewing their screen remotely from time to time? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 11:16 PM PST - 6 comments

I have a friend who regularly lets me pay for him when we're out together and rarely pays me back or returns the favor. How do I politely ask him to pay me back or somehow let him know I'm not happy with this without unnecessary awkwardness? I value this friend very much and don't want to make him feel bad. [more inside]
posted by U.N.Owen at 8:35 PM PST - 34 comments

I'm subscribed to Curiosity Stream because it was $12 for a year and I like documentaries. But now when I look for something to watch, it seems like it's more non-fiction TV than documentary films, which is what I wanted. Please recommend some documentary films available via Curiosity Stream. [more inside]
posted by If only I had a penguin... at 7:09 PM PST - 2 comments

I got a new job that requires me to move to California- anywhere in yhe state. I'll be fully remote but will likely be traveling internationally several times a year (likely not much travel until 2022 due to COVID, then once every month or two). So ideally I would be within an hour of a decent-sized airport. More details inside. [more inside]
posted by emd3737 at 6:29 PM PST - 31 comments

My 95-year-old dad is healing from a wound from a pressure sore. He can't be in a wheelchair longer than 45 minutes. Do braces or exoskeletons exist that would enable him to stand up/be stood up without depending on his strength? [more inside]
posted by musofire at 3:30 PM PST - 10 comments

Do you have any anecdotes or information regarding the constant desire to investigate the self? I would like to stop exploring my psyche. [more inside]
posted by loveandhappiness at 2:17 PM PST - 19 comments

I'm in the process of making an 8.5'' x 8.5'' photobook as a birthday gift for my brother, but realized some fifty pages in that I hadn't accounted for bleed. Is expanding the page (and photos) a quarter inch going to be enough? And what about gutters? ❄️ details inside. [more inside]
posted by Rhaomi at 12:38 PM PST - 5 comments

We are moving to the west coast of Scotland and I'd like to get a motor boat to explore the coastline and some of the islands. I have some limited boating experience helping out but am mostly a boating novice. I'm definitely wanting to learn the right way and will take the relevant training courses. But how difficult will it be to learn? Also how will I know what size boat I will need to safely navigate the routes I want to take? [more inside]
posted by hazyjane at 12:10 PM PST - 12 comments

I quit a bad job situation and moved back in with my parents about a month ago. We weren't particularly close but had a normal upbringing, nothing bad. I'm in my mid-30s and they've been incredibly abusive. How do I cope with this until I can get out? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 11:15 AM PST - 52 comments

I am trying to import all my Evernote files into OneNote For Windows 10. MicroSoft's automatic importer didn't work for me, so I converted all my Evernote files to .enex files and then tried to migrate them manually to OneNote using the importer tool. This is where I get stuck. More beneath the fold. [more inside]
posted by purplesludge at 10:05 AM PST - 1 comment

I'm looking at the options for buying an electric car and I'm a bit overwhelmed. I am looking for a small-medium car, with range as the primary criterion. Personal experience and recommendations gratefully received. Extended criteria below the fold. [more inside]
posted by crocomancer at 7:48 AM PST - 8 comments

I have an M710q Desktop, which has been hooked up to its own monitor and mouse etc. I also have a Yoga L13 laptop with a ThinkPad dock (and all the peripherals for the laptop go into the dock and then I connect the laptop via USB-C). Is there a way to use the dock with the M710q, so that I can switch the peripherals back and forth between the two computers just by moving one cable (or some equally simple one-step)? [more inside]
posted by Tandem Affinity at 7:30 AM PST - 14 comments

I have recently learned that my 3-year-old daughter is on the autism spectrum. She is generally a happy, sweet, funny kid, and her speech and development have accelerated a ton since she started speech and occupational therapy. So overall, things are going well. However, I would like to better understand her neurodiversity and make sure that my husband and I don't commit any huge blunders without realizing that we're doing so. Any advice on books or resources that will help give us insight? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 11:13 PM PST - 8 comments

Is there a name for a condition of enjoying and actively seeking the smell of one’s own anus? I am not talking about the smell of excrements but the smell of a clean anus. If one is getting pleasure from rubbing their anus, then smelling their fingers, what is it a sign of? Is there psychoanalytic literature on this topic? Thank you.
posted by anonymous at 11:13 PM PST - 11 comments

I'm thinking about joining a soccer team to meet new people and to get over the pandemic blues. I'm a female and I have very little experience in sports so I'm a little hesitant about it. What was your experience like?
posted by sheepishchiffon at 10:20 PM PST - 7 comments

My 28-year-old son graduated from a school and his very good health insurance through the school is going to end on August 20th. [more inside]
posted by DMelanogaster at 6:01 PM PST - 23 comments

Just finished listening to the astonishing 'One Hundred Years of Solitude' and the frightful 'Empire of Pain'. Considering 'Hamnet', 'Razorblade Tears', 'The House of Mirth'... What have you listened to lately that you'd recommend? I'm woefully behind in Sci-fi ('Hitchhiker's Guide to the Universe' is my sole excursion) so good chewy sci-fi recommendations appreciated.
posted by lois1950 at 3:54 PM PST - 18 comments

I live in San Jose, California, and the local Rocket Fizz closed due to the pandemic. The next closest Rocket Fizz is in Alameda. Does anyone know of any shops I can browse for unusual/obscure/indie sodas in the Southern Bay Area?
posted by KChasm at 2:55 PM PST - 8 comments

I am thinking of staying at The Hotel Hollywood, and I know it's very close to the Walk of Fame and the strip there. How loud is it? Will I be able to sleep?
posted by Slinga at 2:46 PM PST - 5 comments

I just saw this TikTok of a tree on fire because it’s touching a power line and I want to know more. [more inside]
posted by nouvelle-personne at 1:38 PM PST - 7 comments

My (only) kid is going to be leaving for college in a few weeks. How to navigate this? [more inside]
posted by BlahLaLa at 12:52 PM PST - 26 comments

My friend is planning a celebratory meal in Wichita, KS, for a group of out-of-town folks. Are there any good restaurants/venues there that have a COVID-safe dining option for 15 (vaccinated) people? Outdoor patios, private dining rooms, etc.? Bonus: picturesque location nearby where they can take group photos...
posted by unknowncommand at 11:34 AM PST - 0 comments

Bought a house a year ago. Prior owners have not changed they mailing addresses. Is there some reason I should care? [more inside]
posted by JPD at 11:01 AM PST - 21 comments

I know it seems more like a documentary about 2020 than science fiction, but… In this story (or novel) humans are living very far from each other and only connect through video calls. So for instance a mother will only see her baby on a computer screen. I was told about this story recently by someone who could not remember further details, I did not read it myself. But if it rings a bell, please tell me the name of this book / story. Thank you.
posted by slimeline at 10:08 AM PST - 11 comments

I'm moving in 3 weeks; in the new space, I get a much better home office. This is my chance to make it look fantastic - but how? [more inside]
posted by EmpressCallipygos at 9:56 AM PST - 14 comments

What films and shows dramatize life at the end of an empire? I'm looking for historical fiction kind of things. I am not especially interested in the machinations of the ruling class, leaders clinging to power, etc. I'm more interested in people left holding the bag, families trapped in a bad spot, etc. This could be anything from the fall of Rome, collapse of a country due to World War, chaos after a coup, whatever. [more inside]
posted by DirtyOldTown at 7:48 AM PST - 31 comments

My wife and I occasionally need to drive between eastern Connecticut and southwestern Ontario to visit family. We usually break the drive up into two short days, and it's fun to have a half-day activity or attraction in the town where we're spending the night. We've done this a couple of times in the past and we're looking for new ideas. Anywhere in a broad quadrilateral bounded by Rochester, Elmira, Binghamton, and Gloversville might work. [more inside]
posted by Johnny Assay at 7:47 AM PST - 18 comments

A few weeks ago, my toe suddenly swelled up for no reason that I can discern. A day or so later, the swelling was gone, but the whole thing was purple. It got better. Now it’s swollen again. Why? More riveting details inside. [more inside]
posted by TEA at 7:34 AM PST - 12 comments

I'm seeing a lot of sources saying to write the subject line first, then write the email. But in copywriting, it's the opposite; you write the piece first, then write 20+ titles til you find the best one. Isn't email copywriting just copywriting writ small? What's the best way to go about subject lines? (I'm working on an article on writing emails that click and convert.)
posted by The Almighty Mommy Goddess at 6:49 AM PST - 15 comments

Looking to start EMDR and am looking for budget options. I'm not sure how effective online EMDR would be. Does anyone have any recommendations either online (anywhere in u.k) or in person (London)?
posted by Sunflower88 at 6:23 AM PST - 3 comments

Short version is according to my memory my boyfriend told me someone I thought was called Christian was actually called Tristian. I thought we had a whole sort of ongoing joke about it. Then a month or so later he tells me Tristian is called Christian and those conversations never happened. [more inside]
posted by mosswinter at 4:05 AM PST - 37 comments

Where can I leave my car overnight, when traveling from the Rhinecliff, NY Amtrak station? [more inside]
posted by silverstatue at 7:39 PM PST - 10 comments

How much of the food we buy that is sold as organic is not really organic? [more inside]
posted by Dansaman at 6:57 PM PST - 7 comments

A few years back my parents added me to all their bank accounts and credit cards (and vice versa) so that in the event of sudden death or some other emergency we could easily access everything without going through probate or whatever. I would now like to open a second, private savings account along with an additional credit card so I can save and pay for a special cosmetic procedure. How do I do that without alerting my parents? [more inside]
posted by Hermione Granger at 6:57 PM PST - 20 comments

I’m fascinated by the Galleri early “liquid biopsy” genetic screening cancer test. However, I’m an NYC resident; these tests cannot be performed in NY state due to state regulatory limits . Insurance doesn’t cover this test; medical providers in any other state can order the test for ~$950, which seems reasonable - I’d be willing to pay that much out of pocket. Could I register with an out-of-state doctor and have the test done through them (I'd be happy to travel)? Does anyone have any info beyond a hunch that this is possible/impossible?
posted by anonymous at 6:44 PM PST - 5 comments

I left the table for 5 minutes, and now the chicken bone is gone. It was an air fried chicken leg bone. He's a 2 year old corgi. I fed him a half hour before and a piece of bread after. Is there anything else I should do? I'm worried.
posted by bbqturtle at 5:52 PM PST - 11 comments

Not the imitation stuff; after searching the internet, I am more confused than ever about balsamic vinegar. [more inside]
posted by mightshould at 5:02 PM PST - 10 comments

It recently came to my attention that my (early 20s) niece and nephews think the height of cocktail and spirit sophistication is a glass of Jack Daniels and coke. I shuddered. And so have offered them an evening of cocktails to improve said, sad, situation. [more inside]
posted by maupuia at 4:43 PM PST - 33 comments

I bought some off brand soy sauce. It isn't good. I've since replaced it with a decent brand, but I'm loathe to throw it away. Anyone have an idea for using several litres of soy sauce? I know about soy sauce pickled eggs (isn't that more of a marinade?). Is there some other kind of pickle? Can I transform it somehow into something usable?
posted by conifer at 4:28 PM PST - 18 comments

I have had my iphone SE repaired too many times. I find online shopping for technology to be impossible, and I hate learning new technologies, but I'm ready to move on from Apple. I'll list my specific criteria below. [more inside]
posted by Summers at 4:24 PM PST - 6 comments

In San Francisco I used to go to a restaurant called Modern Thai that serves an entree they call gai naam leab, which was sautéed ground chicken, chopped Chinese olives, fresh lemons and chilies served on steamed rice. This is a photo of it. I've got a fever for the flavor of gai naam leab but googling it only returns links to Modern Thai. Is there a different name for this dish? Bonus points if you know where I can find it in Portland, Oregon.
posted by bendy at 3:02 PM PST - 13 comments

Hi. I watched part of a movie while channel-surfing many years ago. I neither remember its title nor any of the actors. [more inside]
posted by DavidfromBA at 2:23 PM PST - 13 comments

This is similar but not quite the same as countable vs noncountable. I'm trying to think of a noun that can't very logically be preceded by "the" and the only one I can think of right now is "outer space" - because there's only one. But this could also apply to concepts and intangibles; are there examples I'm missing? TIA!
posted by ftm at 1:41 PM PST - 28 comments

I've had the slowly dawning realization over the past couple months that I think I fucked myself over based on certain advice from my therapist that made a bad situation much worse. But I'm really having a hard time figuring out if that is the case or not, and even how to figure that out. After all, he is the mental health professional, and I definitely need help with psychiatric issues AND I know that people in denial are often resistant to their therapists. [more inside]
posted by [insert clever name here] at 11:29 AM PST - 28 comments

Have come to the realization that chronic ankle injuries can be managed with PT but that running is not a good hobby for me long term. I'd like to get involved with long distance mountain bike racing and rides and begin training for them. I'm in New Orleans, LA. How to start ?more specific question below the fold. [more inside]
posted by edbles at 10:59 AM PST - 0 comments

Hi! With summer upon us and things reopening, I'm interested in email newsletters about fun things to do in the Bay Area—restaurants, museums, outdoor film screenings, concerts, random free events, you name it. Have any favorites? I'd be grateful for any ideas. Thanks!
posted by DavidNYC at 8:41 AM PST - 6 comments

I have a Samsung Galaxy Note 8 running Android 9 that is 3 years old. It is the most durable and reliable phone I've ever had. It has been dropped, kicked, run over, drowned and has never failed me. I am not gentle on phones and it's cracked screen and case are showing its age. I use the stylus everyday. It fits all of the mounts that I have it fits in my hand beautifully. I love this phone. [more inside]
posted by sandra_s at 8:14 AM PST - 5 comments

Is there a term, a device, for when everyone the protagonist meets is essential to realizing their goal? Seems like it would be a part of Joseph Campbell's hero's journey. Basically they are all put in the protagonist's path so the protagonist will have the knowledge they need to do whatever it is they are trying to do at just the right time. If just one of those characters was missing, the protagonist would fail. So kind of like having no red herrings among the characters, instead they are all essential? Or at least almost all are. [more inside]
posted by Meldanthral at 8:01 AM PST - 12 comments

ISO a template for jargon-free, internal content reviews that are about what the content says to readers, not to google. [more inside]
posted by headnsouth at 7:50 AM PST - 2 comments

Can I automate daily activation of an out of office email reply? [more inside]
posted by pdb at 7:38 AM PST - 14 comments

I'm recording my voice during site visits and sending the files to otter I'm now handsfree without having to scribble - and with time-stamped images and gps I have all the who, what, where and when - it's a huge, huge time saver. Anyway I still go back to the sound file to check and correct the transcription, and there are often long gaps. Is there some way of skipping forward through an audio file to just hear the verbal bit [more inside]
posted by unearthed at 2:03 AM PST - 7 comments

Jam makers of Metafilter, I’m in a sticky situation. I’ve just made strawberry jam for the very first time and run out of jars. I have maybe a jar and a half left and no glass jar to put it in. Can I put the leftover jam in a drinking glass with no lid and keep it in the fridge and eat it over the next week safely?
posted by Jubey at 11:11 PM PST - 9 comments

I live on a wildlife corridor, and know we probably see just a fraction of what makes its way through our extended backyard. Have you had a good experience with a particular trail or game cam? [more inside]
posted by charmedimsure at 10:06 PM PST - 5 comments

I have been tasked with baking brownies and possibly very chocolatey brownie adjacent cookies for the birthday of a person who is very special to me. Please give me your most delicious recipes so I can make them very happy! [more inside]
posted by Zalzidrax at 8:47 PM PST - 24 comments

I am looking at creating curated/customized self-guided tours/itineraries to sell online to customers, and I want to figure out a more modern format that would really work and be fun for younger people (most tourism resources still cater to baby boomers…) [more inside]
posted by miss lynnster at 8:43 PM PST - 6 comments

I live in Chicago, have an impromptu week off, and want to do some day trips with friends. What are my best options for leaving in the morning and getting back home by midnight with an amazing day behind me. OK if they’re in the city or outside of it, provided the above occurs :)
posted by sirion at 7:03 PM PST - 14 comments

Last month I planted a few herb seeds in my raised bed out in my backyard. None of them really took, which ok, fine, no big deal. But the strange thing is, not a single weed grew in that patch of soil either, despite plentiful weeds growing elsewhere in the bed. I did put down a new bag of soil in that area (this one specifically), could that be the reason nothing is growing there? This is more of a curiosity question than a gardening one, btw.
posted by cozenedindigo at 5:51 PM PST - 5 comments

Does anyone have any experience working for and/or running a club sports team (in America)? I am specifically curious about forming a USA Track and Field sanctioned club team primarily targeted at high school athletes looking to improve their skills. Could you share stories about the financial aspects of running said team? Could the head coach / director of the team make enough money to be their primary source of income in a moderate cost of living area? Thank you in advance!
posted by DEiBnL13 at 4:16 PM PST - 5 comments

I have been working from home for a year in my attic, which contains exposed spray foam insulation. How worried should I be? [more inside]
posted by to sir with millipedes at 3:49 PM PST - 20 comments

So, I'm moving to Canada from my former country. I got accepted into grad school. Before that I was working for a US company while in my home country. The possibility of still working for them part time while in grad school has come up. I checked and asked with the international center at my university. They told me this is allowed but that it needed to be 20 hours a week and that I needed to check with the CRA to see what's needed. [more inside]
posted by Tarsonis10 at 2:36 PM PST - 13 comments

I've moved to Canada from the US. I don't intend to return to the US. I have $25K of debt on several US credit cards, which I can't currently pay. What would be the consequences of defaulting? Specifically, would there be problems getting a mortgage in Canada? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 2:03 PM PST - 13 comments

My partner and I have had an ongoing lack of understanding about the default ownership of chores, bill, and general house maintenance that I'm struggling to put into words that are understandable to them as well as being respectful of how they chose to show up in our relationship. I could use some perspective and advice on reframing, both for myself but also to maybe find a way to communicated my feels comprehensibly. [more inside]
posted by Carillon at 1:59 PM PST - 22 comments

I'm looking for a more technical term for the population needed to support a new business. I think I heard/read once that there is a difference between the first of a type of business and subsequent businesses of the same type. [more inside]
posted by Meldanthral at 12:44 PM PST - 7 comments

So I just got off the phone and a little reeling so forgive me. My very pregnant wife (8 months), was followed by an unfamiliar co worker to a distant parking lot today and felt both unsafe and that she couldn't leave/disengage for 40 minutes. Is that ok, if not what should we do? [more inside]
posted by Sentus at 11:42 AM PST - 52 comments

I had a time period where I was having a lot of surgeries and to pass the time I put together a few guitars piece by piece (body from this guitar, these pickups, that wood neck, etc). Due to my state of mind and the amount of anesthesia I had at the time, I have forgotten some of what I did. Like which pickups I put in which guitar. [more inside]
posted by jitterbug perfume at 11:27 AM PST - 8 comments

I am a single 61-year-old woman and looking down the shortish barrel of the rest of my life. My income is quite low and will not be changing, I have chronic, progressive illnesses, and I basically can't afford to live here. [more inside]
posted by primate moon at 10:48 AM PST - 15 comments

I'd like to print out all the emails a friend and I have sent each other - there are 100s of them in Gmail - and have them bound in some way. I assumed there was be a service that would do this in a simple, attractive way like the ones that do photo books (Pinhole Press, Artifact Uprising) but have come up short in my searching! [more inside]
posted by monster_a at 10:40 AM PST - 4 comments

I am trying to pay off two jointly filed tax returns. Tax return solvency assistance is requested inside. [more inside]
posted by mountainblue at 10:38 AM PST - 7 comments

In discussing the fine line between what's fair to use in fiction and not ("Cat Person" inspired"), I was reminded of a movie where a young woman is navigating life after her writing professor writes a prize-winning novel that is --to her--recognizably about her, and not in a flattering way. But I can't remember the name of the movie, help! [more inside]
posted by correcaminos at 10:09 AM PST - 4 comments

My husband is older and has experienced some hearing loss. We have bats in the wall of our house (that will hopefully be tended to soon.) I could hear a bat squeaking in the wall and brought my husband over and he couldn't hear it. But when I held my phone up and recorded the bat squeaking, and then played the recording for him, he could hear it. Why is this the case?
posted by PussKillian at 9:39 AM PST - 9 comments

A friend and I are taking a trip this month to see other friends in Vermont, about 20 miles from Montpelier. We'll be staying with those friends, so lodging isn't an issue. I'm looking for fun, sightseeing things to do within our ability to walk around. [more inside]
posted by The Pluto Gangsta at 8:46 AM PST - 10 comments

I have a sister and 16-year old niece visiting Brooklyn this weekend and need some ideas for keeping them entertained. They're staying in Crown Heights, I'll be in Cobble Hill, and I'm just looking to keep us all occupied in one or both neighborhoods for a couple days. Any ideas?
posted by critzer at 7:51 AM PST - 12 comments

I need a camera that I can set up and let run for a few days that will record a subject and obscure their identity. [more inside]
posted by jonathanhughes at 7:48 AM PST - 14 comments

I’d like to get good pictures of the colors (visible and infrared) of the arteries in my wrist. Is there a useful technique for increasing the transparency of the skin at the moment of the picture? Somehow I’m thinking that a very bright flash might do the trick, but I’m not sure what color that would be or even if it would work. I can build or buy any equipment necessary.
posted by Tell Me No Lies at 7:06 AM PST - 5 comments

A tenant who is renting an apartment from me texted to say that the oven in the kitchen stopped working. It already happened before, and I paid for the heating element to be replaced. Now it seemed to her that the same thing is happening again. The repair technician came and found that the tenant put the oven clock on auto, which stopped the oven from working. Once the clock was set up properly the oven was back to working again. [more inside]
posted by slimeline at 7:05 AM PST - 37 comments

In a continuation of the urological saga of Frank the Adorable Wombat, I need advice on how to remove the smell of urine from paper. These papers have not been peed on, but were stored in a box that was and are now infused with the charming stench of ammonia. [more inside]
posted by DarlingBri at 2:46 AM PST - 4 comments

I have to repeatedly lift a part of a machine, it would be much easier if I could press a lever to raise the part instead. Is there software where I can show it how I want to press, and what I want to move, and it will generate the levers/mechanics to transfer the force? [more inside]
posted by J.R. Hartley at 2:05 AM PST - 9 comments

I work with special education students with significant cognitive disabilities. I want us to do book-reading activities together, and I would like to do digital books but not sure of the options. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 1:41 AM PST - 6 comments

Content Warning: This post contains sexual abuse issues including incest. All the details will be below the fold. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 1:41 AM PST - 18 comments

We just emptied our big sleeping bear bean bag so we can wash it. I’d like to refill it with something better than styrofoam beads, but what and how much? Memory foam seems to be a new filler type and natural buckwheat shells are also growing in popularity. I’d like something without the staticky / gets-in-everything problems of foam beads. Do you have experience with these materials? Are simple volume calculations based on advertised dimensions of a spherical bear close enough when ordering filler? Any other advice for reviving a sad bag?
posted by migurski at 10:37 PM PST - 9 comments

I need advice on how to handle contact from my childhood best friend. [more inside]
posted by cursed at 10:35 PM PST - 7 comments

Hello, I have medical conditions that get worse under stress and am about to take a pretty extensive vacation across multiple time zones which will stress my body on top of symptoms already being more active. Help me mitigate this as much as possible? [more inside]
posted by crunchy potato at 5:14 PM PST - 18 comments

My hair doesn't behave in the best of times, and now I'm gonna be on a boat and I'm trying to figure out how to make the best of it. [more inside]
posted by newpotato at 2:31 PM PST - 19 comments

Please help me find a good home for this mail art project from 1974. [more inside]
posted by chocolatepeanutbuttercup at 2:12 PM PST - 10 comments

Asking for a family member: they need to help their 11-year old who hates handwriting get better at it before the start of the next school year in September. OT won't be available until at least October so they are on their own for now. Any tips from other parents? [more inside]
posted by M. at 1:51 PM PST - 39 comments

I’ve been reading a lot of important books that make me mad and depressed about society. Can you recommend me something recent that’s happy or would give me a sense of optimism towards people? [more inside]
posted by inevitability at 12:16 PM PST - 28 comments

I'm taking part in a group art show, all media, of about 20 people, being held by a local (non-art) business. I have never shown publicly. At all. I draw on an iPad and will need to print out pieces for sale. Aside from the running internal debate I'm having on the size I should print these pieces, the other big question is: What do I charge for them? [more inside]
posted by the sobsister at 12:13 PM PST - 10 comments

I'm looking for an online (or local in Seattle) course or two that will help me develop a new line of business in my B2B consulting practice. Other (non-scammy) resources would be great too, but I'm especially looking for a bit of hand-holding from a course. [more inside]
posted by lunasol at 12:12 PM PST - 2 comments

Apparently too skilled to get a job like my old one, but too green to get a job as anything else. What do I do now? I'm a software support guy with junior-level programming skills, mid-career-level database skills, and tons of customer-facing experience. Trying to find a new job after getting my degree and have faced nothing but rejection for the last two months. At a loss as to what to do next. Many details inside. [more inside]
posted by UrbanEye at 11:53 AM PST - 20 comments

For like two weeks now, I've been really itchy while I'm sitting at my desk. I feel like there are things crawling over me, mostly on my legs but also sometimes around other parts of my body. I can't see anything, though, so sometimes I think I'm imagining things. I don't have any pets. I don't feel itchy in any other part of my house, and I usually don't feel itchy in my bed, which is on the other side of the room. Just at my desk. Is this fleas? If so, how do I get rid of them? If not, what else could it be?
posted by kevinbelt at 11:33 AM PST - 17 comments

Hi! Simple question: What are your favorite wineries in Napa? We're open to any and all ideas. Thank you!
posted by DavidNYC at 10:51 AM PST - 13 comments

I'm interested in writing a choose-your-own adventure style book, probably more picture-book than chapter-book, but I don't think that part should matter much. I would love some thoughts/experience or resources (online or actual books) on how to do this. Meaning both process and content/structure. I think it's possible there might be some materials about old school text-based computer-games might be useful, too. [more inside]
posted by If only I had a penguin... at 10:43 AM PST - 8 comments

Can you help me find a perfume that smells exactly like Meyer lemon peel? [more inside]
posted by bookworm4125 at 10:34 AM PST - 13 comments

I live on the east coast U.S. I want to ship a bicycle next summer to a bike race. What's the best / most cost-effective way of getting this done? [more inside]
posted by mr_bovis at 10:32 AM PST - 10 comments

YANMD. I just injured my left calf muscle. I have a doctor’s appointment scheduled but it’s going to be at least a week. I need some advice on how best to deal with a sprained/partially torn calf muscle. [more inside]
posted by nightrecordings at 9:15 AM PST - 10 comments

My partner built me a strap loom! I am going through yarn too fast and running out of excuses to weave. [more inside]
posted by aniola at 8:29 AM PST - 21 comments

Can anyone point me to good stories featuring the U.S. Coast Guard -- including fiction or nonfiction, movies or books? [more inside]
posted by wenestvedt at 7:57 AM PST - 19 comments

My AirPort Time Capsule has been the perfect solution for both WiFi and wireless Time Machine backups for the several Macbooks in our house. It appears that the HD finally died and I'm looking for a replacement... [more inside]
posted by O Time, Thy Pyramids at 7:47 AM PST - 2 comments

How many workers/percent in USA are in this boat: work in front of a computer/can work remote, generally but not always work a 9-5 M-F (at least need to work those hours), have benefits like 401ks, 2+ week paid vacation and most federal holidays paid, mostly employer subsidized health insurance, some amount of parental leave? (or combination or individual element of this above) [more inside]
posted by sandmanwv at 7:35 AM PST - 23 comments

So since covid started I haven't had a lot of time or inclination to date. But this is changing and I want to get back into this. Personally, I prefer meeting people in real life and engaging in stuff I like to do. That hasn't been easy these past years. [more inside]
posted by Tarsonis10 at 6:03 AM PST - 25 comments

I’m the recently-divorced father of a 6-year-old. I feel I’d be a happier person and better parent if I had more community and friends around parenting. I don’t always make friends quickly, and am historically kinda fussy about who my friends are (maybe that can change). My dream would be to find other people with shared interest, who live nearby, and want to hang out with our kids, talk about parenting, and build friendships. It might help if they are also divorced or solo parenting, but maybe not necessary. Looking for any advice. Is there an app for that? [more inside]
posted by MarNet at 5:50 AM PST - 15 comments

I'll be in the Nicollet Mall area of Minneapolis for a few days on a business trip. I hope to have one or two evenings and possibly a small chunk of afternoon at my disposal. Where should I go? [more inside]
posted by prewar lemonade at 4:58 AM PST - 12 comments

I've recently gotten into reading short-form anecdotes and dramatic stories like you find on AmITheAsshole or similar, and am looking for other good places to find this kind of thing. Details within. [more inside]
posted by sir jective at 4:48 AM PST - 30 comments

I've tried Concerta, Ritalin, Vyvanse and Adderall without any relief of symptoms and indeed without even side effects. Finally going to try Strattera even though I've been hesitant due to the need to titrate as opposed to on/off of the stimulants. What do I need to know? When will I know if it's working, what is the "feel"? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:19 AM PST - 7 comments

I've been eating some cookie butter out of the jar with a spoon. In between the times I do that the jar lives in the fridge and has lived there since its opening. Given that it's had my saliva in it (I suppose), how long before it becomes unsafe to eat? It's the Biscoff one if that matters.
posted by anonymous at 4:19 AM PST - 8 comments

I'm looking for daily/weekly inspiration for vegetarian meals to cook, aimed at any level of cook. I am getting deeply bored of seeing endless variations of burritos, burrito bowls, buddha bowls, $randoPulse salad etc. [more inside]
posted by Faff at 3:38 AM PST - 4 comments

Pandemic permitting, I may be traveling to Morocco in about six months. I’m an American so sadly I have nothing approaching fluency in a second language, though I have studied Spanish, German, French, and Ancient Greek to varying degrees. I have two years of college French so which is a better use of my time in preparation for this trip given the timeframe? [more inside]
posted by Francies at 6:11 PM PST - 13 comments

I have trouble getting my chores and studying done in the evening after I get off work and just want to vegetate. [more inside]
posted by whitelotus at 6:06 PM PST - 37 comments

I’m done with paper books, and I want to distribute my current library back into the world. (Most of them will be donated; I'm not interested in selling them.) I want to point interested folks to a web listing and they can mark books they desire. Based on previous Asks, I planned to create a LibraryThing account, and use LibraryThing’s iOS App to scan each one. I’ve also seen good things about Libib. Do you see potential drawbacks, or a better approach?
posted by Jesse the K at 5:27 PM PST - 6 comments

I'm cleaning my house Konmari-style and a thought came up: how necessary is it to keep the physical copy of your college (or maybe high school) diploma in this day and age? [more inside]
posted by galleta monster at 5:19 PM PST - 35 comments

My friend is often hard to follow and difficult to find a response to. Their conversational style makes me feel like I am being used as an audience, not a conversational partner. How can I make interacting with them a better experience for myself? [more inside]
posted by ceramicspaniel at 5:02 PM PST - 15 comments

I recently watched Mare of Easttown and Broadchurch. Both really pulled me in, made me care about the characters, and kept my mind off of things. [more inside]
posted by bunderful at 4:39 PM PST - 37 comments

Bosch 300 had one job... [more inside]
posted by donut_princess at 4:13 PM PST - 29 comments

My partner generously agreed to my request to move closer to my family. How can I best support my partner as we spend more and more time with my family? [more inside]
posted by cursed at 2:58 PM PST - 16 comments

We bought a new portable AC to cool my attic office, but it’s blowing hot air instead of cool air. I probably should have sized up even more to account for attic heat, but is blowing hot air a sign that the unit is defective, or just not able to cool the space? [more inside]
posted by thecaddy at 2:25 PM PST - 10 comments

I've just gotten a notice that I should put my address on my trash and recycling bins. What is the easiest, most absolutely foolproof way to do this? [more inside]
posted by FencingGal at 12:49 PM PST - 27 comments

It's been a long time (years) since I've had a really excellent cantaloupe or a great batch of cherries. Is it bad luck, am I losing my sense of taste, are my memories distorted by nostalgia... or is produce really getting gradually worse over time? [more inside]
posted by alex1965 at 10:58 AM PST - 34 comments

I need to replace my elderly, slowly dying Toshiba laptop (c. 2010, still running Windows 7), but want to do this w/out taking a big hit. [more inside]
posted by ryanshepard at 10:51 AM PST - 15 comments

What should I use for treating my mostly indoor cats? [more inside]
posted by RoadScholar at 9:22 AM PST - 5 comments

I remember a fiction writing / outlining method described here a long time ago that consisted of writing a single central sentence and then expanding on it with additional single sentences until you had an entire plot or possibly an entire narrative. (In my memory it’s similar to The Snowflake Method, but not an exact match.) Does anyone remember what I’m talking about? [more inside]
posted by Ian A.T. at 8:43 AM PST - 2 comments

My mom (a retired nurse) has not been to a doctor for at least 30 years. She needs to go to one now. Is this an ER, urgent care, or other doctor situation? [more inside]
posted by actionpact at 8:28 AM PST - 36 comments

Movie/TV superheroes with the power of flight generally fly head-first, but land feet-first: how do they switch? [more inside]
posted by AzraelBrown at 8:12 AM PST - 18 comments

My therapist thinks I have c-PTSD due to growing up with a scary, poorly understood health condition. I bet he's right. But the stuff he recommended I read about c-PTSD is really very heavily focused on the aftereffects of being abused or neglected by your parents. Are there books I could read that cover this sort of trauma more generally, without presupposing specific people played specific roles in it? [more inside]
posted by flexible-footwear figurine at 7:42 AM PST - 7 comments

I am on a quest for that unicorn yarn -- something that looks like cloth-of-gold, without the metallic threads. The color I am going for is true gold or burnished gold (bright gold or soft, duller gold), not bright yellow or tan (more below the fold). [more inside]
posted by TrishaU at 7:32 AM PST - 8 comments

Argument with a friend who insists "most people" had to work July 5, 2021. It was a federal holiday. "Bank holiday" as the British would say. [more inside]
posted by Goofyy at 6:32 AM PST - 25 comments

I see things like “19th century” or other centuries about houses and have no frame of reference for which kind of house is which. I would like to know what all the types of houses mean. 17th, 18th, 19th, any century, dutch colonial, and others. Thanks!
posted by jitterbug perfume at 5:52 AM PST - 6 comments

I have tiny feet (US women’s size 5). Kids sized running and training shoes fit me, obviously. But are they the same quality? [more inside]
posted by millipede at 5:45 AM PST - 9 comments

I just finished The Song of Achilles which I absolutely loved (drama! queer and trans characters!). What other modern retellings would you recommend? [more inside]
posted by allymusiqua at 5:29 AM PST - 18 comments

Exactly what it says on the box. This is easily the most difficult clock I've tried to set on any appliance, ever. There is nothing about it in the instruction manual. The Kucht wall-mounted range hood seems to run on its own time. Have you set the clock on it? How? What do I press? Is there a secret password? Please, dear God, does anyone know?
posted by Miss T.Horn at 10:45 PM PST - 15 comments

My partner is mid-40s and works full-time. He has reached the course in his disease where he needs more personal/custodial care than we can afford. We've met with lawyers (and got a second opinion!) but hoped to hear from folks who may have practically navigated this road in their own lives. Details inside... [more inside]
posted by carmenghia at 9:02 PM PST - 4 comments

My family and I are (finally!) moving to Canada. Yay! We're not taking our car with us, so we need to sell it. But we need to use it pretty much right up until we move. Help! [more inside]
posted by number9dream at 8:30 PM PST - 16 comments

What do you do when we’re you’re opposite ends of the spectrum in your outlooks on sex. I need a lot to feel connected, he doesn’t need much but masturbates constantly when alone, is there even a way to meet in the middle here? Sometimes its a red flag, sometimes its a green flag. This is a query around compatibility, porn & masturbation, the scars of infidelity & control in the past, and what should normal sex look like in a new relationship. Something you are well qualified to help me with :) [more inside]
posted by krisb1701d at 7:25 PM PST - 23 comments

For a story: what steps might a somewhat unstable character with severe arachnophobia take to make sure their apartment is completely Spider-free? Thinking beyond "get an exterminator to visit often" and more visually, like "cups of water around the bed-posts to keep spiders from crawling into bed, cans of raid scattered about," etc. Thanks!
posted by egeanin at 4:59 PM PST - 29 comments

One of my geranium plants has been completely destroyed by some creature. Details inside. [more inside]
posted by BlahLaLa at 4:45 PM PST - 11 comments

I am trying to learn more about all kinds of History and to find more on Historians and books/academic papers. What are some of your favourite Historians from the past or present? Or favourite History books as well? [more inside]
posted by RearWindow at 4:44 PM PST - 16 comments

I'm heading on a roadtrip up the California coast with San Diego as the first destination. What modern architecture, design or art stuff should I see? [more inside]
posted by mullacc at 4:22 PM PST - 11 comments

A small house in upstate NY. I can do ALL the design, construction documents, septic plans, etc (I know how) but will need a final sign-off from, who? Licensed engineer? Contractor? They will have to sign-off comfortable w/ liability. Can I search town Bldg. Dept., for names and contact them? What kind of contracts are typical? Advice?
posted by ebesan at 2:54 PM PST - 7 comments

I frequently ride my bike on city paths that have two bike lanes and one pedestrian lane. A situation often occurs which annoys me... [more inside]
posted by Frowner at 2:48 PM PST - 44 comments

I've searched replacements.com, but came up with nothing...can anyone help identify this pattern? My wife and I were married twenty years ago, but all we can remember about the pattern is that it came from Macy's: PHOTO #1 PHOTO #2 PHOTO #3 Any help would be GREATLY appreciated!
posted by richmondparker at 2:37 PM PST - 6 comments

I'm getting ready to move and I have a lot of books I need to purge. I've been looking into selling some of them on Amazon. If you've done that, tell me what that's like? [more inside]
posted by EmpressCallipygos at 2:08 PM PST - 15 comments

I got a budgie recently and he seems to really like to listen to music, especially when full short staccato notes. After going through a lot of surf music (him 'singing' along to wipeout is cute as can be) I realized that flamenco would be good, and he does seem to love it, especially where there's a lot of fingering fret sliding music. I know that's supposed to be something to be avoided, but he just loves it and sings along with his cute little budgie noises. Anyone have any good suggestions for music to try that leans into those noises?
posted by aspo at 11:39 AM PST - 30 comments

I have some garden spaces that haven't lived up to my admittedly half-a**sed plans and I want to up my game. Is there a resource I can use to either create the magically perfect plan for my gardens or painlessly teach me the basics of planning it myself? Books, apps, websites, whatever. [more inside]
posted by DrGail at 11:07 AM PST - 12 comments

I'm in the mood for some enjoyable TV romance. I'm looking for basically decent people with chemistry and romantic tension. [more inside]
posted by carolr at 10:13 AM PST - 31 comments

Are there books, workbooks, YouTube channels, etc for people who want to get better at respecting other people's unstated boundaries? Particularly at work. [more inside]
posted by Former Congressional Representative Lenny Lemming at 9:18 AM PST - 18 comments

I'm returning to campus after a year plus of wearing my usual Prana Briann pants, black merino wool crew neck t-shirts, and black zip up sweater. This time, though, I am taking an appointment on a committee that may involve meetings with the president, and this is a little too casual. How can I up my business casual game and stay true to my low-key, not particularly feminine, black-clad 50 year old self? [more inside]
posted by metarkest at 9:12 AM PST - 15 comments

I live in Scandinavia and want to go to Italy for a workshop next year. I just read Ed Yong's piece in The Atlantic about Covid variants, which will be with us forever. If I skip this workshop, there's no replacement. It is a pricy gift to myself. I don't get my money back if I cancel. No one can predict the future but I am trying to. What should I do?
posted by Bella Donna at 8:29 AM PST - 9 comments

We're going to need a house and cat sitter for a month plus later this year. How do we find a reliable sitter, what should we expect to pay, and what should we expect them to do? Have you hired a housesitter? What worked for you? What did you wish you had done? [more inside]
posted by JawnBigboote at 7:44 AM PST - 19 comments

Please help me match this "golden oak" trim with a roughly appropriate wood stain for cheap pine. [more inside]
posted by letahl at 7:14 AM PST - 10 comments

I signed up for Disney+ in a bundle that also includes Hulu and ESPN. Turns out I only use Disney+. How do I keep the one service while canceling the others?
posted by ocherdraco at 6:43 AM PST - 3 comments

I met my current partner of 7 mos when his father was in and out of hospital with pneumonia and heart related issues, it was never a thought that he was ill enough to pass, rather he needed rehabilitation - he passed suddenly as his health deteriorated quickly before their eyes about 3 months ago. He was early 60s, had a lot of life left, and wasn’t in bad health and nobody really knew what exactly happened. I’ve been there through all of the emotions and experiences while simultaneously still building this new relationship. He’s a wonderful man which is why I am still here because I know at any point he could have said look this is too much for me handle all at once, and I could have said same as I am a single mother to 5 year old, demanding job, and not a whole lot of flexibility and with the passing of his father, he also moved 4 hours away to live back with his mom for a few months to get her into a good spot and settle her in. Also for him, he’s rightfully really having a hard time bc he was very close to his father, and feels lost without that support. My question is, without sounding selfish, I love this man, my daughter does too, I’ve been there anytime he’s needed me, I’ve given him the space I hope helps for him not feel pressure. But I have this feeling of not knowing what to do at this point or how to help him? I do not mean to make this about me, or a new relationship, bc I know his grief and loss is so instrumental in his life that this may very well just mean the end for us so that he can focus on his priorities right now. [more inside]
posted by MamaBee223 at 5:48 AM PST - 8 comments

A lead screw is very efficient at pushing a nut when it turns. However, if you push on the nut it's not very good at turning the screw. I need the opposite of that: Something where if I push the nut, it's really efficient at turning the screw. What are some examples of things like that which I could buy? One example would be a "yankee" or spiral screwdriver. I'm particularly hoping for things with shaft sizes between 2mm and 6mm (5/64" to 1/4"). Thanks!
posted by clawsoon at 5:33 AM PST - 9 comments

One of my siblings-in-law has an odd quirk of expressing theatrical shock that I was present at [insert assortment of family activities within the last decade]. He will launch into a detailed description of a family activity, then if I join in the conversation and mention being there, he'll say, "I have NO memory of rogerroger being there! You were really there?" It seems like a mild thing but it is driving me up the wall and I need to figure out how to handle it maturely/politely. [more inside]
posted by rogerroger at 4:09 AM PST - 58 comments

Help me deal practically with a new anxiety: not being able to fit into seats in public places. [more inside]
posted by unicorn chaser at 3:56 AM PST - 7 comments

I think I'm probably fine, but I'd like to appease my paranoia and curiousity nonetheless: Should I be concerned immigration-wise about the situation described below? Also, on a scale of one to ten, was this normal? [more inside]
posted by ectopus at 12:11 AM PST - 20 comments

I went tubing with a good friend and their spouse today. We used a dry bag to keep our items inside. Friend stored their iPhone inside the dry bag. Water got inside the dry bag, and their phone was damaged/inoperable. I'm not sure exactly how it happened, but I suspect it was me who caused the incident. How should I proceed? [more inside]
posted by dubious_dude at 10:01 PM PST - 18 comments

YANAD. YANMD. YAPAAS (You are probably an asthma sufferer). I have just had my first asthma attack in 17 years. I am looking after someone else's home until they return. What actions should I and my partner take in this house to let me breathe eas(ier)? Bullet-pointed details inside. [more inside]
posted by rednikki at 9:56 PM PST - 12 comments

I need discourse on being ill. [more inside]
posted by antihistameme at 8:22 PM PST - 17 comments

Had a scary experience yesterday, help me process it over the next week [more inside]
posted by Ideal Impulse at 7:33 PM PST - 27 comments

I've just started Cozy Grove and it's time-gated, grr, so looking for similar games for PS4 or PC. Recommendations should have at least one of the following attributes: * Chill! In story/attitude/gameplay/graphics * Helping people, running errands, farm sim-y, item collection/gathering, crafting, building. A main plotline is fine if I can ignore it and still have fun dinking around in the world and helping NPCs * Not too complicated (quarantine brain) or reflex-heavy. Games I have enjoyed in this vein under the cut. [more inside]
posted by snerson at 7:29 PM PST - 14 comments

I am planning a 2 week stay to visit Mammoth Cave NP, the Corvette Museum, and the bourbon trail. I need other places, or things to do or experience in the area. Anywhere up to 2 hours away. I'm into geocaching, railroading, and nature photography.
posted by 922257033c4a0f3cecdbd819a46d626999d1af4a at 7:03 PM PST - 9 comments

I'm wondering what good, healthy, well-used aquarium filter media full of beneficial bacteria looks like, but I can't find any photos of filter media except new-looking stuff. Anybody got some good photos showing green/brown slime that is definitely the good stuff? Thanks!
posted by amtho at 5:06 PM PST - 2 comments

My foot hurts. I’m blaming my work shoes. I need new work shoes. [more inside]
posted by sciencegeek at 4:09 PM PST - 29 comments

I found a recipe for instant pot (I think) strawberry jam that A) Used pectin (omg, it's so hard to google jam recipes that use pectin!) B) Used a combo of brown and regular white granulated sugar. I think it was an instant pot recipe, but it's possible I found another recipe and just decided to make it in the instant pot and hope for the best. Now I can't find it. Can you find it or do you have such a recipe?
posted by If only I had a penguin... at 3:26 PM PST - 2 comments

When I studied landscape (ended '04) I found a study from Phoenix? or at least Arizona / Colorado / Nevada where house cats were killing all the lizards and a cat control law was introduced. Lizards were doing most seed spread and so maintaining natural plant cover. [more inside]
posted by unearthed at 1:20 PM PST - 9 comments

Stand my ground or cave in? [more inside]
posted by kilohertz at 12:35 PM PST - 21 comments

I bought 2TB USB 3.0 flash drive and pasted about 1TB of MP4 instructional videos. They had been on a USB 3.0 portable HD but I wanted to use a flash drive because it is sturdier and smaller. The new drive is exFAT. A portable HD that does work properly is NTFS. The machines that share these files are all Windows 10, 64 bit systems. [more inside]
posted by Raybun at 10:40 AM PST - 9 comments

I just bought a 15 inch 4 shaft table loom, and the first project I want to make is a pillowcase for a deck chair pillow. What would be good yarns to get, and what weaving patterns might be fun to try? My priorities are to make it washable and durable for outdoor use, though I won’t leave it outside in bad weather. It shouldn’t be too scratchy either! [more inside]
posted by moonmilk at 10:31 AM PST - 1 comment

Looking for recommendations for games for an adult to play like A Link to the Past. I really enjoyed that game, and have replay countless times. I played a few pokemon games but don't really find them challenging or fun. More inside. [more inside]
posted by Draccy at 10:07 AM PST - 4 comments

Looking for original works by philosophers (dead or living) that I, a beginner, might find rewarding to read. That address questions relevant to our lives today and are not too opaque and maybe even fun to read.
posted by Omnomnom at 8:52 AM PST - 36 comments

I deal with many typical forms of mental illness - anxiety, depression, and OCD. However, I also have another issue that no doctor has ever truly understood - I get pulled into other people's emotions, so I feel what they feel, particularly when this feeling is negative. I feel this most strongly with my daughter, but social media has the same effect on me. Looking to see if anyone else can relate or offer advice. [more inside]
posted by hiteleven at 8:43 AM PST - 21 comments

What is the correct order of operations for resigning one's job? I may be giving notice at work soon, and I've never actually done this before, despite being fairly far into my career! (Previous departures have always been as part of large layoffs/reorgs, etc.) [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:47 AM PST - 10 comments

I am interested exploring tropes and themes in non-Western romance and erotica, any medium, and LGBTQ-oriented is fine; no misogynistic, racist, pedophilic, or violent sex descriptions / recommendations, please. Basically, I would like to know more about motifs in erotica outside my bubble, which is mostly North American and mainstream. I am interested in any country, culture, or subculture, and personal observations, references to works and other reading or viewing material are all welcome. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:40 AM PST - 2 comments

I’m looking for a pair of over-ear headphones that has a built-in MP3 player and takes a memory card. Noise cancelling is a plus. The purpose here is a portable study aid — something that allows one to listen to music without needing to connect to a phone or anything else. It needs to fit a nine year old. Some searching on Amazon tells me this probably exists, but I know nothing about brands or extra features to look for or avoid, and I’m seeking recommendations for specific products.
posted by eirias at 7:03 AM PST - 3 comments

I'm writing a song about cat videos, and I'd like to make a music video compiling short pieces of cute or interesting or bizarre (or all of those) cat videos to accompany my song. [more inside]
posted by DMelanogaster at 6:17 AM PST - 15 comments

A stray chicken has taken up residence in my yard. What can I do? [more inside]
posted by kevinbelt at 5:24 AM PST - 12 comments

Please tell me about cat window perches. Some attach with suction cups. What are the other methods? Do you need to open the window at all? Do you have a perch you like? [more inside]
posted by NotLost at 5:20 AM PST - 10 comments

What are the good trans-friendly hair salons in the Bay Area? This will be my first femme haircut. My hair is (finally!) starting to get long and it needs a little maintenance. I don't know what I'm doing and it's important to me to find a salon where the staff understands that. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 4:33 AM PST - 7 comments

My 78-year-old, non-gamer mother wants to play games like DDR or Beat Saber at home, but doesn't own a gaming console. What should she get? [more inside]
posted by phoenixy at 12:04 AM PST - 6 comments

I'd like to piggy back on a recent question about how not to "shrink into oneself," which really resonated with me. I'd like to ask a related question-- how do you explore foreign countries despite being introverted and very slow to adapt to new places and experiences? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 11:10 PM PST - 15 comments

Many people ask about kitty litter here, with specific needs. I have different specific needs. I want to know the overall best kitty litter solution for two beautifully house-trained, altered, 12-week old kittens. [more inside]
posted by heigh-hothederryo at 10:54 PM PST - 12 comments

My best friend's behavior towards me changed a few weeks ago. We went from talking/texting hourly every day to only chatting here and there over the course of the week. I do most of the texting now. She responds maybe half the time. This transition is hard for me, and opens up old wounds from other relationships (platonic and romantic) where the same things happened. I would therefore like to help myself practice self care and letting go by not texting her at all for a few days. What could help me do that? [more inside]
posted by Hermione Granger at 10:07 PM PST - 21 comments

I made the lemon-herb brine from this Thomas Keller’s fried chicken recipe. But it smells likes feet, and I don’t know why. [more inside]
posted by msladygrey at 7:37 PM PST - 4 comments

Is it safe to plug 2 fans into a 16-gauge extension cord/power strip? [more inside]
posted by Woodroar at 7:27 PM PST - 6 comments

Is it okay to have guests individually pay for their own drinks when I celebrate my birthday at a bar? And if it's okay, how do I convince my parents that it is? [more inside]
posted by clair-de-lune at 3:53 PM PST - 41 comments

Hi. I am quite keen on starting a History YouTube Channel or Podcast elsewhere, but I am not sure which medium would be best or how to present the dialogue and conversation. [more inside]
posted by RearWindow at 3:36 PM PST - 3 comments

I’m trying to replace a mortise doorknob. However the new unit just barely doesn’t fit in the hole where the old antique one was. Should I get this done professionally? Or try and whack at it with a chisel. I’m scared of wrecking the door. Photos and video Linked.
posted by cacofonie at 3:32 PM PST - 6 comments

Looking for resources for a young adult adoptee who has just discovered their biological father is alive, has many kids, and is not the person their birth mother claimed. My buddy is deeply upset and drinking heavily since this discovery. I want to gently point them to some good adoptee resources for coping (have suggested therapy but no luck yet).
posted by Bella Donna at 1:52 PM PST - 3 comments

I’m looking for new indoor fitness equipment and have narrowed it down to a rowing machine. I have a Peloton tread and have been hoping they’d come out with a rower, but I don’t think that’s going to happen anytime soon. Can you recommend your favorite rowing brand? I have space for it in a workout room and am open to higher price if it means a better workout (less injury). Thanks!
posted by Shaitan at 12:57 PM PST - 14 comments

I want get new rubber "things" for this Mapex 32-key glockenspiel. Where can I order these? [more inside]
posted by falsedmitri at 12:36 PM PST - 3 comments

I have recorded a track and am able to loop it. I want to record a longer track while listening to the loop. If I have the clip set up to loop, the recording loops back over itself. I know the full length is recorded because I can see it all in clip view. How can I get the full length to play simultaneously with the loop so I can export a full length song?
posted by gray17 at 11:47 AM PST - 4 comments

I am scheduled to close on a new townhome next week. I am not the average homeowner who's excited and giddy. In fact, I'm the opposite. I've been conflicted about this purchase since I secured a lot almost six months ago, and today I woke up with a massive headache to which I'm attributing stress over this issue. [more inside]
posted by GeniPalm at 10:27 AM PST - 34 comments

One of you fine people shared a PC program that keeps your pantry/fridge/freezer inventory then suggests meals, depending on what you have on hand. Does this ring a bell with anyone? Please and Thank you!
posted by james33 at 10:20 AM PST - 6 comments

A technique for managing unexpected and perhaps unwelcome situations is to identify what aspects of the situation are out of your control, what aspects you can influence, and what aspects you are in control of, and then focus on what you can influence/control. Is there a name for this technique, and how can I learn more? [more inside]
posted by Serene Empress Dork at 10:13 AM PST - 14 comments

I've had ghosts of a short animated film in my head for the past week and would like the mystery solved. It's 3D animation, I believe from the early 90s, with a bear in the north pole/artic flying a (red?) plane delivering mail. It might've had a Christian message. [more inside]
posted by lesser weasel at 5:17 AM PST - 8 comments

Yesterday morning (about 24 hours ago), my stepfather discovered that an entire corner of their finished basement had soaking wet carpet, after very heavy rains the night before. It's about a 10x10 foot area. What are the next best steps? [more inside]
posted by betsbillabong at 4:51 AM PST - 13 comments

So the situation is that Person A is leaving the country and wants to transfer ownership of his car to Person B, as a gift. The car is worth about 30k. The California gift tax exclusion apparently maxes out at 15k. Does this mean it would be better for Person A to sell the car to Person B to avoid tax burden? Another factor is that years ago, Person A has also gifted Person B a sum of money. Would that amount factor into consideration at all?
posted by massofintuition at 3:44 AM PST - 7 comments

I'm a newcomer who joined (1 month so far) because despite not having been raised by alcoholics/addicts, my current partner is an alcoholic in recovery, I am very hurt by his behavior, and I feel like my emotions (and life) have become unmanageable. I like the rituals of the meetings, the serenity prayer, the sense of community of others in the same headspace. But a few things don't sit right... [more inside]
posted by CancerSucks at 2:29 AM PST - 19 comments

Traveling nurses are most certainly a thing, what about CNAs? Is this you? Tell us.
posted by firstdaffodils at 11:29 PM PST - 9 comments

I'd like to buy a Windows laptop suitable for school that will also support video editing. Priorities: (1) ability to edit 1920x1080 video, (2) battery life, (3) weight. Budget is about C$1500. [more inside]
posted by russilwvong at 11:17 PM PST - 7 comments

New transplant to the Phoenix métro area and we are responsible for pest control in our rental. We're from a northeast suburban area, where pest control is not a regular thing (and it's different pests), so I don't have much experience with this in general, nor what to look at for PHX specifically... [more inside]
posted by Tandem Affinity at 6:09 PM PST - 6 comments

My spouse and I are in disagreement about whether or not it's safe to drink a jug of lemonade that has not only been opened, but has been left out of the fridge on the counter for several days. Low to moderate light conditions; room temp. Not sugar free. Is this a likely bacterial wasteland or is it safe to drink? [more inside]
posted by nightrecordings at 5:51 PM PST - 38 comments

I'm stumped as to how I can use these up in some interesting ways. Do you have a good recipe? I have vague thoughts about potato hashbrowns, or Korean-style pancakes. Maybe a kind of French onion soup can be done with these (with vegan faux-beef stock)? My boyfriend is vegan so I'd like to make something he can eat as well. (Also, they may be spring onions instead of scallions, I don't really know or care the difference, I would accept recipes that use green onions as well.)
posted by panhopticon at 5:26 PM PST - 21 comments

what do I get for $300 that I don't get for $40? [more inside]
posted by fingersandtoes at 3:41 PM PST - 12 comments

I saw on a youtube video that pastors don't have to pay property tax on their personal home. Is this true? Where can I find more information about this?
posted by maxexam at 2:03 PM PST - 9 comments

I found my dog eating this in our backyard but we cannot figure out what it is or where it came from [more inside]
posted by christiehawk at 1:54 PM PST - 8 comments

I have a week-long rental car reservation with Enterprise through Costco starting in Las Vegas in a couple of weeks. Can I expect that I will in fact have a rental car when I arrive with the current rental car shortage? What sort of alternative plans should I consider if a car isn't available? [more inside]
posted by msbrauer at 12:26 PM PST - 11 comments

My family of four is going to be moving from the Maritimes in Canada to Cape Cod in the US at the end of August. We have moved **a lot** in the last few years and the process is has been stressful at best and a masterblasterdisaster at worst. We have a bit of lead time and would like to come up with a plan of attack. How would you approach this move given the following details? [more inside]
posted by jeszac at 11:43 AM PST - 18 comments

How long before serving can you put cream and cream based frostings on an Angel Food cake? [more inside]
posted by wwax at 11:39 AM PST - 9 comments

I am growing green beans and they have just started to produce pods. I have noticed some dead patches on a few of the leaves (pictures) and I am worried it is a disease of some sort. Is it? And how should I treat it if so? [more inside]
posted by goingonit at 11:33 AM PST - 5 comments

Why doesn't the US have a nationwide network of water distribution pipes to better manage droughts and floods? [more inside]
posted by Dansaman at 11:15 AM PST - 24 comments

Does anyone know a modern poem that at one point refers to feeling the cold wind while walking past the Sloan-Kettering hospital in Manhattan? I remember that it was lower-case sloan-kettering, and not about being stricken with cancer. I've looked through the table of contents for the latest Norton's Anthology, but nothing jumped out at me, even assuming that this poem is still included. Please don't go to any bother here - nothing is depending on me re-reading and re-enjoying a poem that I remember liking in high school. Thanks.
posted by turkeybrain at 10:56 AM PST - 9 comments

Formerly responsive guy has now gone radio silent. What's up with that? [more inside]
posted by ATX Peanut at 10:17 AM PST - 36 comments

When I start to close the door of my dishwasher, it makes a loud noise about 1/4 of the way up. What do I adjust or tighten so the door doesn't catch the front of the machine's body? [more inside]
posted by wenestvedt at 8:36 AM PST - 6 comments

My iMac, which is complaining and doing surreal computery things and probably wants to retire, has a 3gb internal hard disk. The new M1 Macs have internal SSDs, and I would probably get a 500gb one. This must be happening a lot. Is there a sensible, standard method for migrating from one to the other? [more inside]
posted by Grangousier at 7:58 AM PST - 11 comments

My daughter needs help with leg hair removal in preparation for a three-week camping trip. While that's my immediate question, there is a lot more detail within that may be relevant for answering the question. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:51 AM PST - 47 comments

My parents (ages 80 and 75, USA) are old-fashioned in that they want their children to inherit their house when they die. They are low-income ($28K a year, plus whatever they get from social security) and they have no savings, investments, or retirement accounts. Literally they have their house and that's it. I think that wealthy people have workarounds such as ways of putting property into trusts or having LLCs hold them or ???. How can I find what those options are? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:50 AM PST - 9 comments

I have been a writer/journalist for the last five years and now want a "real" job. But what? [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 7:50 AM PST - 12 comments

I have just been hired by a boss who is departing. I have found out that the new boss is someone I applied to before, and she did not hire me. Is this going to be a problem? [more inside]
posted by ficbot at 7:01 AM PST - 10 comments

It looks like my wifi router has gone bad. A couple easy questions about a replacement. [more inside]
posted by SemiSalt at 6:25 AM PST - 11 comments

I have had an eBay account for over 20 years but I mostly buy, I have almost no experience as a seller. I recently put something large and heavy up for sale, collection only. The top bidder has 100% positive feedback - but many of their positive feedback comments say they're a timewaster who doesn't pay or collect. Apparently sellers do this because eBay no longer allows negative feedback for buyers. What should I do? [more inside]
posted by automatronic at 6:18 AM PST - 8 comments

I really want to become a more motivated, high functioning person but I'm struggling - does anyone have any advice? [more inside]
posted by Sunflower88 at 3:29 AM PST - 19 comments

I am seeking apps or software that people use to inventory their lego bricks, sets, and collections. [more inside]
posted by jadepearl at 10:00 PM PST - 10 comments

We moved into a dream house in a really cute neighborhood. Where there are a lot of fireworks in the summer. It's just kind of the culture here. Our cats are maybe getting used to it a little, but they're quite stressed out. Is there anything we can do to help them?
posted by insteadofapricots at 9:11 PM PST - 12 comments

I'm looking for an inspirational song, about women, sung by women, that isn't predicated on romance, love, and relationships. I'm not a woman. Hope me! [more inside]
posted by SquidLips at 5:55 PM PST - 33 comments

I just had my candidacy for a job revoked because I live in Colorado. Our new Equal Pay requiring salary transparency is pushing companies away from hiring Colorado residents. (news investigation) I'm in desperate need of a temporary place to stay and rent in CO is too damn high! Might my job chances be better if in another state? Also, temporary Mexico City furnished apts. are cheap in nice parts of town. I'm a US citizen BTW. [more inside]
posted by Che boludo! at 5:40 PM PST - 10 comments

The Net/Google has told me that I should never talk to the insurer of the person who hit me, that they will try and trick me into saying something wrong so they don't have to pay. [more inside]
posted by Rumi'sLeftSock at 3:14 PM PST - 6 comments

YANMD, I’m just curious about how likely it is that the current prescription I have is going to fix the underlying cause. I’ve had persistent lower back pain recently that seems to begin in the afternoons/evenings, when I’m tired—I’ve always had something similar but it used to only happen after walking for 8+ hours a day on vacation. Now it’s happening every day. More details inside. [more inside]
posted by music for skeletons at 3:02 PM PST - 7 comments

Are for-hire vehicles (Uber/Lyft/whatever) a thing in Cold Spring, NY? [more inside]
posted by lassie at 2:58 PM PST - 5 comments

I'd like to know if this behavior is normal or concerning. [more inside]
posted by aquamvidam at 2:29 PM PST - 20 comments

I'm looking for (1) a good weather forecast site, and (2) a good weather forecast smartphone app. I want them to be simple, fast to load, and preferably ad-free. (They don't necessarily have to come from the same provider, although it'd be nice.) I'm fed up with the Weather Channel's bloat. [more inside]
posted by escape from the potato planet at 1:50 PM PST - 18 comments

How many U.S. troops were killed specifically by the German armed forces in World War I & World War II? It's easy to find figures for total U.S. deaths in each war, but I'm specifically interested to know how many came at the hands of the German military. If such data is not available, I would be interested in knowing the number of deaths by theater in WWII (European vs. Pacific). Thank you.
posted by DavidNYC at 1:47 PM PST - 8 comments

The front of my quilt is an old bedspread, and has been washed countless times. I'm going to add batting, a back, and binding, and quilt it to turn it into a comforter. Normally I wouldn't pre-wash the fabric, but since the front is already washed do I need to wash the rest? They're 100% cotton, good quality. I'm not worried about the dyes bleeding.
posted by The corpse in the library at 12:41 PM PST - 17 comments

What is this tile for? Found in a bathroom in an old hospital building.
posted by ocherdraco at 11:13 AM PST - 15 comments

Looking for a downtown Manhattan, pub-style situation that has outdoor, ground-floor, covered seating where I can reserve space for 15-25 people. [more inside]
posted by greta simone at 10:28 AM PST - 4 comments

I am trying to figure out what my costs will be in retirement and need to plan for my maximum health care cost exposure. Please tell me if this is correct: 1) Once you're on Medicare, you are no longer eligible for ACA subsidies. 2) There is no OOP maximum to original Medicare; even if you need a heart transplant, you have to pay 20% of all costs. 3) The only way to have an OOP max is Medicare Advantage, which severely limits your choice of providers. [more inside]
posted by HotToddy at 9:12 AM PST - 12 comments

I'm a survivor of domestic violence and a woman that I worked with but do not know very well, who is a Facebook friend, is posting that she needs help. More details after the cut. [more inside]
posted by Beethoven's Sith at 8:31 AM PST - 15 comments

I got divorced right before the pandemic. I developed feelings for and entered into a queerplatonic partnership with the person that I formed a COVID-pod with during the pandemic. This partnership seems to be on the verge of ending, and looking back, I think it may have fallen into several relationship patterns that were also present in my marriage. Help me figure out 1. am I repeating unhealthy relationship patterns? and 2. how do I stop? (more inside) [more inside]
posted by bridgebury at 8:20 AM PST - 11 comments

I am interested in how the insurance industry thinks it is going adapt to climate change. [more inside]
posted by aetg at 5:35 AM PST - 5 comments

I recently had a confusing sexual experience and it’s been bothering me. [more inside]
posted by anonymous at 3:30 AM PST - 37 comments

I was vaccinated with one shot J&J in the US, but it doesn't appear the Indonesian government will easily accept that as proof for travel. I need to travel domestically for work. Who on earth can I ask about which vaccine available here is safest if I can't figure out another solution? [more inside]
posted by frumiousb at 2:31 AM PST - 11 comments

We are contemplating a move to Adelaide, SA from Melbourne, Vic, with our two kids. Are there are any mefi locals who can help us choose a spot? [more inside]
posted by jojobobo at 1:14 AM PST - 3 comments

I am a 50-ish year old male. YANMD. I am having some issues with my left foot. A couple times a day it goes slightly numb, and if I’m walking I might trip a bit on it due to it kind of flopping down (maybe this is described as drop-foot I’m not sure). I’ve noticed sometimes it’s a little hard to curl my toes compared to my right foot. Also every couple of days I’ll have a muscle spasm for about 10 seconds where it cramps up, hard. The spasm is always in my left foot. This usually happens when I’m asleep and always wakes me up. (More inside) [more inside]
posted by Ike_Arumba at 1:13 AM PST - 8 comments

I have several smallish (1-2 cm) cysts on my scalp that I am keen to have removed. I went to see a skin-specialist GP and the method she described seemed to be to remove the cyst and skin on top of the cyst, so that a 1cm cyst would leave a 5 cm scar. This seems excessive to me - my impression from the internet is that only a small incision about the size of the cyst is required. Is this right? [more inside]
posted by neatsocks at 12:59 AM PST - 7 comments

I'm spending some time in an environment that is awesome but challenging and I'm not coping very well but I would like to spend another week or so here. At the moment I'm super in my shell and barely say anything to anyone and have trouble engaging in tasks or coming up with ideas because I'm so in my own head. I always experience this in new and challenging contexts and regret it afterwards and I don't want this to be just another one of those times. [more inside]
posted by fantasticbotanical at 12:01 AM PST - 17 comments