August 2018 Archives
August 31
Need a new Wallet.
Mine has finally disintegrated. Last time I looked, you loaded up your entire life into this giant hip-dislocation-device, and then sat on it. What products are better than this? [more inside]
posted by PareidoliaticBoy at 9:39 PM PST - 33 comments
posted by PareidoliaticBoy at 9:39 PM PST - 33 comments
How to migrate SMS, MMS, call history from Android 6 to Android 8?
Looking for easy/secure options to migrate data to a new phone, particularly SMS and MMS messages and call history. They are both U.S.-based Moto phones, if that makes a difference. My main concern is giving a 3rd party the ability to access all my texts/call history/contacts at once, so I want to be sure they're reputable and there's nothing iffy in their TOS/privacy policy or the ads they run if it's a free app, etc. [more inside]
posted by rangefinder 1.4 at 9:32 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by rangefinder 1.4 at 9:32 PM PST - 7 comments
Nick Drake sheet music
I am currently scoring "Leaving Me Behind" by Nick Drake using MuseScore, having been unable to find sheet music for it.
I see guitar tabs, like here and here, but no sheet music.
If I were to make this publicly available (for free) when I'm finished, would I be violating any copyrights?
posted by falsedmitri at 6:45 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by falsedmitri at 6:45 PM PST - 8 comments
Background check on rapist - if and how
A friend was recently drugged and raped on a date. As part of her effort to respond she wants to do a background check on him. Is this something that’s easily done? How does a non-employer/landlord go about doing this?
posted by skyscraper at 5:55 PM PST - 18 comments
posted by skyscraper at 5:55 PM PST - 18 comments
Huge man at Aretha Franklin Funeral
My wife and I are dying with curiosity: Who is that colossal man seated with the dignitaries at Aretha Franklin's funeral? [more inside]
posted by BigLankyBastard at 5:37 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by BigLankyBastard at 5:37 PM PST - 10 comments
What bra to wear with low-backed halter top?
I bought this top when it was on super-sale and now that I've received it, I realized that I have no idea what bra to wear with it. The very thin model looks like she's wearing no bra at all, but I bought the L and need some coverage. What kind of bra would work? [more inside]
posted by rogerrogerwhatsyourrvectorvicto at 4:32 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by rogerrogerwhatsyourrvectorvicto at 4:32 PM PST - 7 comments
Steam games (Dota 2) got uninstalled and won’t update
Once I was up for gaming i realized that the games got uninstalled and i couldn’t keep them running anymore. I have tried:
-restarting pc
-restarting steam
-clearing the cache
-changing server location
-deleded files containing 570
-unticking everything in DLC but Dota
-putting the band width to “unlimited”.
It starts loading until maybe20-40 minutes nothing and then again., til max a few mins it starts updating a bit more sometimes.
I tried being connected to different internet accounts, nothing helped.
What else can I do to make it work? Any tips left? I can’t afford the new computer plus this one was running Dota 2 (my main game) smoothly til now.
Thanks in advance!
Looking for meat stew recipes for pressure or slow cooker.
I love chili. I am looking for similar hearty and meaty stews from any and all cultures that satisfy similarly. I have an instant pot which can act as a pressure cooker or a slow cooker, so I'd prefer recipes tailored to those cooking vessels.
So does my kid have some sensory processing issues?
It’s been suggested and maybe I was in denial. Details inside. [more inside]
posted by St. Peepsburg at 2:52 PM PST - 18 comments
posted by St. Peepsburg at 2:52 PM PST - 18 comments
Evidence that opiods are addictive
I had a disagreement recently with someone who told me that the latest research shows that opioid addiction for most people is due to underlying issues of depression/isolation/other mental health problems. I am under the (strong) impression that there is very good science that the substances are themselves, irrespective of mental health, chemically addictive. Can you point me to good scientific research that supports the latter claim? (or the former; I am open to being wrong) [more inside]
Why does my cat poop on the side of the litter box?
My 1-year-old cat likes to poop both in the litter and on the side of the litter box. We use Nature's Miracle Jumbo Disposable Litter Boxes and dispose of the entire box once a month. He "christens" the new box as soon as it is provided to him and sometimes does it other times in the same box or other two boxes. (My three cats have three boxes total.) Why does he do this? [more inside]
How do I get more?
I have a family heirloom I'd like to share with my brothers. It's my family name made from scrap that my dad made for the front of a car. Pics of the object and the car inside! [more inside]
posted by shmurley at 9:51 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by shmurley at 9:51 AM PST - 11 comments
Help Me Think of a Word
If I write a poem about Bach in fugal form, or an exploration of stream-of-consciousness writing technique using that technique, or shoot (as Les Blank actually did) a film portrait of Herzog’s mania while Herzog directed a film about a maniac....is there a word for these emblemizations? Preferably one way better than “emblemization”?
Word for when the blades of a windmill are intentionally loosened?
What's the word for when the blades of a windmill are intentionally loosened? [more inside]
FaceBook settings question.
I use an LG G pad F 8.0 tablet occasionally to look at FaceBook. When I do it on this tablet, I can only get 15 seconds or so on a page before the screen switches back to my wall. I click on a page to see additional info and 15 seconds in, the screen goes back to FaceBook.
Any suggestions?
the perfect Seattle hotel in September?
What's going on in Seattle the week of 9/10? I can't seem to find a hotel, or one that doesn't cost $600/night. Any suggestions for a place that's good for two adults and a baby? Mostly for mosey-ing around and eating at good food places. [more inside]
How to clean up a 2-inch layer of dust on *everything*?
There was wall-sanding going on in the house while I was gone with the kids. I haven't moved or covered any of our stuff beforehand. Now everything we own is covered with a thick layer of fine dust (including kid toys, baby stuff, clothes, electronics etc). What would be the best way to clean it up?
Help me choose a handy household hobby
I'm looking for a new hobby and/or develop a household skill, and it should have as many of the following characteristics as possible: [more inside]
posted by pointystick at 5:11 AM PST - 19 comments
posted by pointystick at 5:11 AM PST - 19 comments
Can you help me understand Star Trek's Time Warp?
I'm referring to the The Original's "Tomorrow is Yesterday" episode. [more inside]
August 30
How should we deal with mistreatment by 1st grade friends?
Our 1st-grade daughter's closest friends are a groups of boys, who verbally and physically mistreat her. How do we address this situation, and how can we get her to respect herself enough to not allow this kind of behavior? [more inside]
No, not S Cargo
Surprise! My desk aquatic plant habitat is apparently host to a snail. He is cute, happy, and super active! He needs a name. A good, clever, fun name for when I introduce him to my co-workers bc he is a good, clever, fun snail.
posted by this-apoptosis at 8:33 PM PST - 39 comments
posted by this-apoptosis at 8:33 PM PST - 39 comments
How do I treat a poinsettia disease in my beloved, rapidly dying plant?
I am not a gardener but I have a beloved poinsettia plant that I've managed to keep alive for almost four years now. It has caught a mysterious disease which is rapidly killing it. Would you help me confirm which disease my poinsettia has and understand the treatment? [more inside]
Can I Fix This Lamp?
I have a mid century lamp that is not functioning. The switch knob will not turn any more. I would like to replace the switch/socket, but I can't see a way to get the old mechanism out and get a new mechanism in, as the knob will not come out. [more inside]
posted by vansly at 8:11 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by vansly at 8:11 PM PST - 2 comments
I'm jealous of a coworker in an unhealthy way. Tell me how to stop.
I'm at my first white collar salaried job, ever. I find myself feeling jealous and angry towards a coworker for reasons I find unacceptable. I'm not used to this feeling, and don't know how to get rid of it. [more inside]
Help me remember a movie/tv show!
An older, possibly powerful gentleman is asking a subordinate to explain something. They answer with something along the lines of "No...no sir. I am not able to." Crestfallen but realizing the betrayal, he answers "The fact that you can't explain....explains everything".
Probably not the exact words, but that's the gist.
The man is Ian McDiarmid-ish in my memory, and it may be television rather than a movie.
I've tried Google and Yarn.io. I suspect this is probably a well known film, but it is currently eluding me...
posted by Jon Mitchell at 7:58 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by Jon Mitchell at 7:58 PM PST - 3 comments
Dealership Vs. Mechanic: Transmission Edition
My 2013 Mazda3 manual transmission might need a new transmission - mechanic says it should be covered under warranty, dealer says they can't find any problem, What's next? [more inside]
What should we do since our house burned down with everything we own?
Our house burned down, leaving us with very little. No one was injured, praise be. We won't be hit too hard financially, but don't know how to go about recovering from this kind of disaster. [more inside]
posted by Cookiebastard at 7:49 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by Cookiebastard at 7:49 PM PST - 6 comments
Help me pick some podcast episodes for my mom
My mom has to lie flat and motionless for 4-6 hours tomorrow as part of a medical procedure. I would like to direct her to some pleasant podcast episodes that she can listen to on her phone to pass the time. [more inside]
What's the best browser plugin to manage my bookmarks?
I searched through some previous threads, but it seems like a lot of the recommendations have since closed down. I'd prefer a solution that allows me to sync my bookmarks across browsers (Firefox and Chrome) and computers.
GOTV Nov 2018 redux: helping voters vote, NOT canvassing/phoning
So, based on my last “I want to help Get out the vote for the upcoming midterms” question, I registered for The Last Weekend. It doesn’t appear to do what I want…… [more inside]
posted by lalochezia at 5:27 PM PST - 17 comments
posted by lalochezia at 5:27 PM PST - 17 comments
I'm looking for a good introduction to practical biotech
I need to learn a lot very quickly about practical biotechnology—not just the basics of the science behind it, but also the practicalities of what kind of equipment you have in a standard modern wet lab, what it does, and how to use it. I know that's a wildly broad scope of material; I'm a scientist, but not a biologist by training, so intro books will be helpful for the abstract stuff but likely not for the lab stuff. Any suggestions you might have for textbooks (ideally cheaper ones) or supplemental material would be very much appreciated!
What is biting me (Martha’s Vineyard edition)
At two different beaches (Joseph Sylvia State Beach and Lambert’s Cove) on Martha’s Vineyard this week, we have fallen victim to some kind of biting fly. What is it, why does it seem to like us so much, and where can we go to be free of them? [more inside]
posted by lomes at 4:22 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by lomes at 4:22 PM PST - 9 comments
Dim Sum and Izakaya in San Francisco
Meeting with friends in San Francisco this Sunday. None of us have been there in many years. The four of us would like to have a Dim Sum brunch to start the day and then finish up with some nice Izakaya style dinner. Though Sushi would also be fine if there's no good Izakaya options. [more inside]
What is the average fee for a wedding ceremony singer?
If a wedding has one or two songs for the ceremony, and the couple is looking at a local singer who they do not know but was given a list of vocalists by their church, what do you think is fair for the fee? Is it around 100 dollars for the vocalist to sing at the ceremony, or is it more like $50 per song?
Thanks.
Do Denamarin supplements actually do anything to protect my dogs liver?
My dog is on 5mpg Enalapril. After 2 weeks a blood test shows it's doing something his liver & he now needs denamarin supplements. Are they an actual medically proven to help supplement? [more inside]
Should I send a belated thank-you?
I had a couple of good interviews with a company that I know was looking to hire someone asap. Last interview was last Thursday/Friday, ie a week ago. I didn't send a thank-you note but now am going kind of nutsy waiting to hear back. Would it be advisable to send now? [more inside]
Mispronouncing words at work... to correct or not to correct?
My co-worker regularly mispronounces words (and often misuses or misspells these same, and other, words) in ways that immediately flag her as ignorant in our work area/department. What to do? [more inside]
posted by I_Love_Bananas at 12:58 PM PST - 39 comments
posted by I_Love_Bananas at 12:58 PM PST - 39 comments
How to keep my new hat stain-free?
I have a hat made partly of paper fibers that has been deeply stained by the oil from my forehead. I've given up this hat for lost, but how can I keep this from happening to my new hat? [more inside]
Planning to invest $150 in stock monthly, should I still look at price?
I have just started to save up some money from income and want to have them invested in stock market monthly and just hold it without daytrading, say $150 per month. My question is should I still look at the price to buy once I freed up my $150 each month? [more inside]
posted by lanhan at 12:09 PM PST - 16 comments
posted by lanhan at 12:09 PM PST - 16 comments
Learning to bake
I've been re-watching The Great British Baking Show lately, and it's inspired me to learn how to bake properly. But where to start? [more inside]
posted by widdershins at 11:53 AM PST - 24 comments
posted by widdershins at 11:53 AM PST - 24 comments
Life hacks for constant travel
Road warriors of Metafilter, how do you do it? I'm in a job that has degraded over the past year, from occasional travel, to frequent travel, to constantly on-call last-minute worldwide travel. I hate it with a passion and hope to transfer to something less strenuous in the next year (or failing that, quit entirely if I can't find a better option in the next few months) but till then I need coping strategies. [more inside]
posted by photo guy at 11:53 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by photo guy at 11:53 AM PST - 14 comments
Unreal Estate (Post-Breakup House Question)
Purchased a house with then-boyfriend in Pennsylvania in 2015. We were co-signers. I supplied the down payment ($45K). We had no written agreement regarding a possible breakup. We broke up in 2016. I moved out. He said he'd repay the $45K. He hasn't. He's still living there. My name's still on both mortgage/deed. Please don't suggest "lawyer up". I KNOW I should. I have no money. I spent it all on that dumb house. Until I can magically summon lawyer fees, what options might I have? Details: we were never married. House is is Bucks County. Mortgage is with Wells Fargo.
Where should I go from Tokyo?
I'm planning a trip to visit friends in Tokyo later this year, and I have a few extra days off work at the end for extra travel fun planned. If you were a 30 something solo female traveler and this was your first time in Asia, where would you go for five days after Tokyo that's cheap to get to but interesting to be in? [more inside]
A swing and a miss by the corporation
Is there a name for the occurrence when a relatively popular successful businesses or organization remarkably modifies/redesigns their very successful core product or service (not an ad campaign) but it falls flat, fails, flops so bad that they end up going back to their original product/service/design or they even go out of business as a result? [more inside]
posted by fizzix at 10:23 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by fizzix at 10:23 AM PST - 15 comments
What was a sheet in the 18th C?
If an 18th C text says a character was caught by a "sheet" that flew towards her, and knocked her out of her senses, what would be the meaning of sheet? Is it a rainstorm? A ghost? A literal sheet of fabric?
posted by nantucket at 9:24 AM PST - 29 comments
posted by nantucket at 9:24 AM PST - 29 comments
How do you find the time to do everything?
Are you able to do all the things required/encouraged by all the roles and areas of your life? If so, how?
Do you have some sort of weekly or daily structure that lets you do that? Some other tips/techniques? [more inside]
Receiving SMS/Calls to US Number Abroad
I need to be able to receive calls, or at least voicemails, and SMS on a US number while outside of the US, mostly in the EU. I don't need to send calls or SMS from this number/service, I can continue using paid Skype calling services or my local number. [more inside]
exercise for the time-challenged
I have a very busy and overly scheduled life - how to fit more exercise in, or is what I'm doing enough? [more inside]
Robert Crumb book recommendations?
I just watched the documentary Crumb (1995) and it blew me away.
I really enjoyed his drawings and wanted to know where to start / which of his books are the most worth buying.
August 29
So I opened the attachment, now what?
I was forwarded a (most likely) malicious e-mail, and I opened the attachment. Now what? [more inside]
posted by Toddles at 10:21 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by Toddles at 10:21 PM PST - 6 comments
Is there a name for this software principle?
Is there a name for the software principle that paired actions should occur at the same level/module? [more inside]
Can I somehow see the math behind a web game in the page source?
I play the shark game (previously). After you get 1000 octillion of something, it stops telling you how much you have and just says "lots." I've had "lots" in many columns for over two years now, but I would like to know how much that actually is. It's obviously keeping track. Can i see these numbers somehow by viewing page source or some tool that lets me see the code or...? [more inside]
posted by If only I had a penguin... at 7:29 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by If only I had a penguin... at 7:29 PM PST - 11 comments
"Nikki Minaj Won't Get Out of My Head" or, pathological earworms
For the past 11 months, my autistic 14-year-old daughter has been afflicted with earworms. Neurotypical people can push Nikki Minaj's "Anaconda" and Michael Jackson's "Thriller" out of their head, but she can't. This gets in the way of just about everything. [more inside]
Bike needed for a huge, young kid.
Kid needs a bike. More importantly, kid needs a simple bike. Problem; the kid is huge for his age. [more inside]
What should I do about my iphone being stolen?
What is the correct order of steps to take with a stolen iphone? My iphone went missing yesterday in Brooklyn. It popped up briefly online twice in *find my iphone* a mile apart. What should I do now? [more inside]
Weird node warning whenever I open terminal
Whenever I open up a new terminal on my High Sierra macbook, I get:
posted by signal at 3:54 PM PST - 4 comments
(node:69074) [DEP0005] DeprecationWarning: Buffer() is deprecated due to security and usability issues. Please use the Buffer.alloc(), Buffer.allocUnsafe(), or Buffer.from() methods instead.
[more inside]posted by signal at 3:54 PM PST - 4 comments
More like Kermode?
I'm looking for Youtube channels that are like Kermode and Mayo: relatively quiet, thoughtful, avuncular/"aunticular" discussions of current media. What I don't want is the longform hot take that comes months afterwards (FilmJoy, Every Frame a Painting, Lessons from a Screenplay, Lindsay Ellis, etc.). I like many of those, but I want quiet, thoughtful, quick, and topical reviews.
What shampoo/conditioner should I get for 2b curly hair?
I have 2b wavy/curly hair that tangles and frizzes a lot, and I need suggestions for shampoo & conditioner, under $10/bottle each. [more inside]
Long cardigans, please.
I would like more long cardigans. What are your favorites currently for sale? [more inside]
Replacement for American Apparel tshirts?
I wear a lot of plain black t-shirts, which I used to exclusively buy at American Apparel. Where do I shop now that my old ones are wearing out? [more inside]
Grrrr.
After a break up with yet another emotionally abusive jerk and a falling out with my ex-best friend (who I have to interact with on a daily basis due to working together), how can I manage this all-encompassing anger and hurt I have from past betrayals? The constant negative emotional state is wreaking havoc on my daily life. [more inside]
Power of attorney is meaningless?
My mom has a storage unit she doesn’t want. I have a limited power of attorney (signed, notarized, specific to this task) to cut the lock and deal with the contents of that unit. The storage company will not accept this power of attorney, against previous assurance that they would. The unit is in California. Keys are missing, it’s our lock. What do I do? [more inside]
posted by blnkfrnk at 11:24 AM PST - 28 comments
posted by blnkfrnk at 11:24 AM PST - 28 comments
Questions to ask your aunts about their childhood home and their parents
My grandparents died and I want to capture the stories their children have of their home, upbringing, memories, and values that they have. Can you offer some interview questions that may be helpful?
Backyard apple cider safety
I'm having a lot of people over to make cider from the apples on my tree. We're using a traditional manual apple press that first grinds the apples, then presses the juice out of them. Even though we'll be rinsing and sorting the apples after they're picked, many of the apples will have some form of insect damage. How risky is drinking the unpasteurized juice? What food safety precautions should we take? [more inside]
Last Command QuickTime
I’m looking for a downloadable version of the 1929 film The Last Command. It’s only available as a WMV file, OGG, or a torrent, and I need it in an iMovie-compatible format. Alternately, I’m looking for a non-scammy WMV-to-MOV converter that will work for a two-hour movie. Any suggestions?
posted by pxe2000 at 9:44 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by pxe2000 at 9:44 AM PST - 5 comments
Women's loafer dupe?
I'm looking for a black women's loafer that's similar in style to the Everlane Modern Loafer--especially with regard to the tan sole--but 1) significantly less expensive and 2) preferably faux leather. [more inside]
Eating Our Way around the World: What to Learn?
Pursuant to my loss of cooking mojo from my last question, my kids and I have decided to pick a new country every month and learn about it and then cook from it. So I'm trying to think, what kinds of things should my kids learn? [more inside]
App for Tracking Commute Routes & Times
I want an app for my iOS phone that will allow me to track the length and route of my daily commute (in-town driving with some walking). Do you know an app that would do this? [more inside]
Am I a Doormat, and How To Stop Others from Changing my Opinions?
When I'm unsure of something, I look to others for opinions, and whatever they say will become the truth - even if it wildly differs from my original opinion. I'm also eager to please and forget that my opinion matters too. How do I discover confidence in my own truths and stick to them, and how do I recognize those who will exploit this weakness? [more inside]
posted by LovingMyself at 8:18 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by LovingMyself at 8:18 AM PST - 9 comments
Please help me help my favorite Doggo: YANMV and TINMD
I've been walking a standard poodle daily for a neighbor who has been working 12 hour shifts. Tesla the doggo has been having some weird medical symptoms we don't understand. Multiple blood tests have turned up nothing. [more inside]
I must lower my body temperature
I'm considering the purchase of something like this vest (or, failing that, an elaborate cybernetic exoskeleton a la Mister Freeze) to cope with my increasingly intolerable daily warmness. I seek the hive mind's feedback on cooling attire or other methods I may not have considered, especially from those of you with experience at this. [more inside]
Driving on the right (England) having only driven on left (USA)
How many days to get used to roundabouts, looking right for oncoming traffic, just sort of everything being opposite?
Have been to England about 10 times, but have barely ventured beyond the Home Counties. This October my wife and I would like to spend at least 10 days driving from extreme SW (Cornwall) or extreme SE (East Sussex/Kent) to Tyne and Wear. Driving between the major motorways doesn't worry me. Driving in/around big cities does. Thoughts? Advice?
Should I quit Tinder?
I've been using Tinder and Bumble for nearly two years and I feel like I may have dating fatigue. Should I quit? [more inside]
Local backup solutions for multiple Windows 7 computers
I'm looking for a good way to backup four Windows 7 computers over a local network to an external hard drive. Up to now, I've been using CrashPlan's free plan, which made this super easy over the network. They're removing this functionality come October, so I'm looking for a new solution. [more inside]
What is pregnancy medicaid like in Maryland?
My sister just found out she's pregnant. She's an independent contractor in MD about to be dropped from our parents' insurance plan. Is pregnancy medicaid a good option for her and what can she expect? [more inside]
Rad post!! (Ugh, why did I write that? Why did I use two !!s)
I suck at commenting. How do I comment better? [more inside]
Just how badly did my mother handle my siblings' periods?
I learned this weekend that my mother essentially never acknowledged my sisters' periods, seldom or never purchased pads or tampons for them, etc., and I'm wondering how to interpret this on the scale from "Standard Baby Boomer Parenting Shit" to "Straight-Up Abuse / Neglect." More below. [more inside]
Where can I find the best reusable grocery bags?
My city passed a ban on plastic bags tonight, so I would like to stock our cars with reusable, washable grocery totes before the ban goes into effect in a few months. What is the best combination of quality, compact form and price? [more inside]
August 28
How should my group do an online election?
I would like help finding an online system for a group to vote. [more inside]
posted by maurreen at 10:54 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by maurreen at 10:54 PM PST - 5 comments
Can anyone identify the poem that begins with this line?
"I have baked a ham and sat with friends" [more inside]
Aunt Former Costume Designer strikes again
My niece and nephew want me to make them Totoro costumes for Halloween. Yay! I found some gray and white French terry fabric on sale in the flat folds section last week. Yay! I'm increasingly dissatisfied with the white one and want it to be more like the gray one. Boo! Can you help me match this specific type of French terry? [more inside]
What does the cable guy actually do?
After a harrowing week of trying and failing to get an installation team to activate my cable internet package, in an apartment that previously received the same service from the same provider, I'm curious about what is actually involved in this procedure. [more inside]
SL-M3000-L Acera 3-gear, disassembled, only shifting twice
Learning to do my own bike maintenance, I accidentally took apart my front shifter in order to change the shifter cable (this turns out to be completely unnecessary -- lesson learned). The problem is that now it only shifts once up or down -- but it's a three-gear shifter. [more inside]
posted by curious nu at 5:20 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by curious nu at 5:20 PM PST - 2 comments
Am I supposed to bag my own groceries?
Where I'm from there were no grocery baggers and everyone just did it themselves. This made sense to me. The checkout person has their job, and I have my job, and we are working together to get me out of there as fast as possible. Now where I live (Northern California) there are sometimes baggers there and sometimes not. When there is no bagger, I can't tell if I'm insulting the cashier by doing the bagging myself, or if I'm pissing them off by not doing the bagging myself. When there is a bagger, I similarly can't tell if I'm insulting them by doing some of it to speed up the job, or being a lazy asshole by standing there on my phone. Please help.
Mold in apartment
Rental company is so far cooperative, but I don’t really understand the physics of mold and want to protect my stuff in the meantime. [more inside]
posted by stoneandstar at 2:39 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by stoneandstar at 2:39 PM PST - 4 comments
nature shows for little kids?
What are some good documentaries about animals/nature for preschool aged children? [more inside]
Single-employee corporations: What software do you use for bookkeeping?
Owners/operators of single-employee corporations: How do you manage bookkeeping, payroll, expenses, and taxes? [more inside]
What should be in our going into labor bag?
My wife and I are expecting our first child this December and I'm already thinking about what we should have prepared to take with us when she goes into labor. She will (hopefully) be giving birth in a modern hospital in an urban area not far from where we live. Thanks for your thoughts!
posted by Fister Roboto at 12:19 PM PST - 37 comments
posted by Fister Roboto at 12:19 PM PST - 37 comments
What to look for in a workhorse PC
Our department is going to get a new desktop PC that we'll use to run simulation studies, to do some machine learning (latent Dirichlet allocation and random forests, primarily), and to solve some optimization problems. What should specs should we consider? [more inside]
posted by kortez at 11:41 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by kortez at 11:41 AM PST - 9 comments
How to do a colour switcheroo on a .png without photoshop?
I have a .png that is black and white. I want to change the black to white and the white to black. How? [more inside]
posted by kitcat at 11:36 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by kitcat at 11:36 AM PST - 9 comments
How to do remote meetings when I'm the only one who's remote
I'll be out of the country this fall, and will need to remotely attend meetings of a small group I'm part of. They're not particularly tech savvy folks, this isn't an office environment with lots of tech resources available, and everyone but me will be on-site. There's a lot of crosstalk, and when I've done this in the past, both Skype and Hangouts' built-in noise cancellation make it hard for me to chime in easily without it automatically muting other speakers and causing me to miss important details. [more inside]
posted by tapir-whorf at 11:25 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by tapir-whorf at 11:25 AM PST - 12 comments
DIY Fridge, Freezer?
We'd like to build a small-ish fridge and small freezer, probably using peltier elements. [more inside]
Hostess Gift Ideas
I'm going to a beer tasting festival in Vermont this weekend for a few days. I want to get some gifts for the hostesses, but I'm not sure what to get... [more inside]
help me replace my favorite lip balm!
My beloved Blistex medicated lip balm has changed! I can't use it anymore. Please help me find a replacement. [more inside]
Fast, yet gentle, like a something somthing.
I need a good simile to complete the phrase "...be fast, but gentle, like a ___________."
I work at an art school, and I'm making an instructional handout on how to use our vacuum forming machine. Here's one in use (not my school). There's a sliding tray of heating elements and they get knocked loose if handled too roughly. We tell students to be careful with it, but then they usually go too slow and let their plastic cool down.
Speaking extemporaneously to a large group, I came up the instruction to be "Fast, yet gentle, like a friendly ninja." We've been trying to come up with a better phrase ever since. [more inside]
How to measure for a child's suit jacket
My son wants to wear a suit jacket in a jazzy color for an upcoming wedding, so I'm looking at buying an inexpensive one online. How do I measure to ensure the right fit? Apart from the shoulders/chest measurement, he has a bit of a belly and I want to make sure it buttons and looks nice. Further, what style looks best on a Pooh Bear physique?
handling stress during a performance improvement plan
Last week I was placed on a 30-day performance improvement plan. Obviously I'm working day and night to fulfill the specifics of my PIP, but I have depression, anxiety, and PTSD, as well as a precarious financial situation, and the stress of looming unemployment and possible homelessness is making it hard to cope. How can I manage the stress and make a concrete plan to get myself out of this situation? (snowflakes inside) [more inside]
posted by coffeeand at 8:04 AM PST - 17 comments
posted by coffeeand at 8:04 AM PST - 17 comments
Gentle stretches for sciatica / psoas and piriformis muscles
YANMD. I need help finding gentle stretches to relax my chronic sciatic pain; emphasis on stretches for the psoas / piriformis muscles. [more inside]
posted by nightrecordings at 7:56 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by nightrecordings at 7:56 AM PST - 8 comments
How to convert to local time in Slack?
I would say that 90% of my team is remote. One thing we've sort of successfully worked through just by knowing where people are is just memorizing time zone differences. In Slack is there a plugin where if I type in 9AM EST or something similar (my time zone), it converts it to the local timezone? Similar thing to Google calendar would be nice as clients will say "1PM" and I'm looking to figure out what 1PM PDT means. It is driving me crazy.
Vegetarian dinner after the U.S. Open
What are your favorite, vegetarian-friendly dinner options along the 7 train in NYC? [more inside]
Storage Solution for Magic The Gathering Cards
My daughter is recently into Magic, and the dining room table etc. is constantly covered with cards. I'm looking for some kind of plastic divider box that would have roughly 12 or so compartments, each being able to fit the 3.5 x 2.5'' dimensions of Magic cards. I've seen things like this, but having trouble finding appropriate dimensions.
Figured there might be some good solutions that Magic players have come up with. Many thanks in advance for the help.
posted by dearleader at 6:28 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by dearleader at 6:28 AM PST - 9 comments
Advice for managing a one-time windfall
My late husband’s estate has finally been settled and I’ll be getting a lump sum payout that’s more money than I’ll ever see again in one sitting. Looking for some general suggestions for making the most of this opportunity. [more inside]
posted by ficbot at 5:27 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by ficbot at 5:27 AM PST - 14 comments
Affordable wedding in the Boston area?
My partner and I are getting married next year and having two receptions- one in Melbourne, Australia (where we live) and one in the Boston, MA area (where I'm from). We are all booked in for Melbourne but I've been struggling to find something in Boston that is within our budget- around $10K for about 80 people. Any suggestions? Unconventional is fine and doesn't need to be super fancy. A restaurant or a venue that does their own food would score points for convenience, but I suppose we could hire caterers if needed.
Tapering/weaning off Effexor XR / Venlafaxine - Placebo or sensitivity?
I have been taking Effexor XR 75mg / day for nearly 25 years since I was 15 years old. For the last year, I have been doing a ridiculously slow taper - 10 percent a month via a compounding pharmacy. From a pharmacological perspective, is there a dosage level where the medication stops working? What is actually happening when you get down to super small doses? Would also love to hear any fellow stories for those who have successfully gotten off this drug! [more inside]
Really?! Full/double bed come across as "wanting to be single"?
I am shopping for a new bed. Some of my friends told me that a full/double bed sends signals that I want to be single and sleep comfortably alone. What?! Is this a real thing? [more inside]
posted by atetrachordofthree at 4:41 AM PST - 65 comments
posted by atetrachordofthree at 4:41 AM PST - 65 comments
Oldest entity still referred primarily to as "New [type of entity]"?
What is the oldest entity still referred primarily to as "New [type of entity]"? This question is inspired by the New Forest (named around 1079 or 1086) and New College, Oxford (named around 1386). Not interested in things that are now usually referred to by other names, such as New Rome or New Spain.
posted by grouse at 4:16 AM PST - 20 comments
posted by grouse at 4:16 AM PST - 20 comments
Too good to leave; too bad to stay - career edition?
Does anyone know if there is a career equivalent for the relationships book “too good to leave, too bad to stay” ? I feel like my career falls squarely in that category and I’m wondering what to do. [more inside]
August 27
My teapot lid is cracked
My beloved Curve Teapot's lid cracked in half. The replacement lids only ship to the US, so it'll take me ages to get one. I can still use the lid because the silicon ring is holding the two cracked halves snugly together (see pictures). Are there food/heat-safe sealants I could use to repair the lid? I don't want to replace this teapot as I am fond of it in a crouton-petting way. The answers in the previous askme make me deeply cautious.
posted by dorothyisunderwood at 11:06 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by dorothyisunderwood at 11:06 PM PST - 7 comments
I believe a dentist violated my consent
I went in today to have my teenage sealants removed, and nothing else... [more inside]
posted by gray17 at 8:34 PM PST - 25 comments
posted by gray17 at 8:34 PM PST - 25 comments
What do these gloves say? They have kanji characters on them.
I want to buy these gloves, but I want to know what they say first. Can anyone help me translate them?
posted by Wild_Eep at 8:26 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by Wild_Eep at 8:26 PM PST - 6 comments
Help kid bored at new school that’s far behind her old one academically?
How can we keep our fifth grade daughter interested and happy in a new school that is teaching things she learned 2 years ago? [more inside]
Digital recorder to use with a separate microphone - recommendations?
Looking for recommendations for a digital recorder to use with an external mic (which requires phantom power) in a home studio situation. [more inside]
posted by BillMcMurdo at 7:12 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by BillMcMurdo at 7:12 PM PST - 6 comments
Should I paint the brick trim on my house?
I bought a house (yay!) with brick trim. Is it ok to paint it? [more inside]
Is it practical for my out-of-state parents to sell my car for me?
I live in New York City and am preparing to sell my car. What's the feasibility of having my parents in Minnesota help me sell it there instead? This would really beat the hassle of dealing with prospective buyers in NYC while I'm busy with work and the car is parked in random places on the street getting grimy every day. My parents are happy to help and have plenty of free time to entertain offers. And research indicates I could potentially get a higher price in Minneapolis compared to NYC. Questions follow: [more inside]
posted by theory at 5:36 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by theory at 5:36 PM PST - 7 comments
Colorful Wallet with Coin Pocket
Does your wallet have a coin pocket? Is it an interesting color/texture/shape other than black or brown leather? Does it lack zippers? My kingdom for such a wallet! [more inside]
What are some interesting differences between sign languages?
I have been pretty interested in sign language recently (particularly British Sign Language) and was wondering how users of one sign language view other sign languages, in the same way as English speakers might view Italian as romantic and German as a bit severe. Perhaps some sign languages are seen as being very precise, others use a lot of fingers, others might use more body parts, things like that.
From what I have gathered, BSL users seem to think ASL uses a lot of fingerspelling, and ASL users seem to think the same thing about BSL. Also, it seems BSL uses a lot of facial expressions while ASL uses less. Does anybody know of any more differences like this?
Please help me find my exercise mojo again
It's hot and humid and I'm bored with my music and my leg hurts and I hate everything right now, except ice cream and cookie dough. Please help refresh my fitness life and help me find my exercise mojo again! [more inside]
posted by raztaj at 3:45 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by raztaj at 3:45 PM PST - 11 comments
Clark County's answer to Joan Didion
I'm looking for writing that captures Las Vegas with thoughtful candor—think what Joan Didion has done for SoCal. Nonfiction preferred, but fiction is also great. [more inside]
posted by desert outpost at 2:37 PM PST - 18 comments
posted by desert outpost at 2:37 PM PST - 18 comments
Diet Nihilist
CW: Diet and weight loss talk.
I am the classic yo-yo dieter: I have been trying to lose weight my whole adult life but each attempt just ends with me getting fatter. How do you get back on the horse when you suspect that maybe horses don't actually exist? [more inside]
Need help with MS Word/Excel
I have created a bibliography that I was told I needed to put in alphabetical order. It's in MS Word in the MLA citation format. How do I put the citations, by chapter, in alphabetical order? They moved just fine to MS Excel, where I was able to sort them. But when I tried to put them back in word, all of the formatting was gone.
posted by CollectiveMind at 12:55 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by CollectiveMind at 12:55 PM PST - 8 comments
How can we get more views for an attack caught on video?
We posted the video up on youtube in the hopes that it would help catch the attacker, but after more than a month the video only has barely over 10 views. [more inside]
Is the "Sweater Curse" a scientifically verified thing?
A dear friend insists that the "sweater curse" - whereby a knitter knits a sweater for their partner, and the pre-marriage relationship then ends - is an actual thing. There is a detailed Wikipedia page of uncertain seriousness for it, and a very detailed related talk page. I find references on social media, and previously on MetaFilter. But is it a widely recognised thing i.e. a phenomena, and something that has been tested to be more than probabilistic chance? There are references to the "knitting literature" in several places but I don't know where to start.
Adhesives to repair a convertible window?
My girlfriend has a 2002 Audi TT convertible. The rear window has come undone and I'm trying to repair it. Which adhesives do I need to use? [more inside]
posted by brokeaspoke at 12:18 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by brokeaspoke at 12:18 PM PST - 2 comments
Weird cat behavior, human baby edition
Little Circle is six weeks old. Little Miss has exhibited odd behavior when Little Circle cries on two separate occasions. The behavior seems protective, but it's new to us and we're curious if others have had the experience. What did you do, and did it stop eventually? [more inside]
Is there a documentary about fairs? I NEED IT
I need to know everything about state/county/regional fairs. Anecdotes, data, history, all of it, I need it. [more inside]
posted by masquesoporfavor at 11:30 AM PST - 27 comments
posted by masquesoporfavor at 11:30 AM PST - 27 comments
Why do cooktops cost more than ranges?
Is this a case of product differentiation -- or is there some technical reason I'm missing? A cooktop seems to be a kitchen appliance that allows you to cook with pots and pans on a tabletop surface. A range seems to be a kitchen appliance that combines a cooktop with an oven below it. So.. why does it look like the combo appliance is generally cheaper than just a cooktop?
posted by mhh5 at 10:55 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by mhh5 at 10:55 AM PST - 11 comments
Promising professional contact has turned weird, what next?
I'm an artist and illustrator who also has years of experience in an unrelated field--let's call it acting for this example. Someone who is a big director of a theater I would love to have something to do with, let's call him Zane, started liking my illustrations on Instagram. Then it started getting weird. [more inside]
posted by cartoonella at 10:45 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by cartoonella at 10:45 AM PST - 15 comments
Five point something on the Kinsey scale
Do you experience somewhere between "absolutely none" and "a tiny bit" of interest in a particular gender? How does that influence who and how you date? [more inside]
Mental Health Resources in Los Angeles.
This morning a friend in Los Angeles asked for help for finding mental health resources for her brother. He is coming out from the East Coast and we are beginning to do research on available options for therapy, transportation, shelter, etc.
Outside of system would be preferable.
Resources for mental health found so far include Didi Hirsch, Los Angeles Consuling Center and Gay and Lesbian Center.
I figured Bicycle Kitchen would be a good start for transportation. He can build a project bike inexpensively. It's also a good place to hang out and be useful.
He is on EBT. I do not know if he is at the level of general relief.
Any suggestions and support will be deeply appreciated.
How do you car insurance if you deliver?
If you work for a place that delivers stuff (food or other items) and you use your own car, and the business does not offer auto insurance (and will not, so please don't worry about replies in that vein)- what do you do? [more inside]
Puzzling puzzles!
I came across a website (which may or may not have been linked from AskMeFi)- it was the equivalent of a puzzle magazine, but with harder more puzzley puzzles. [more inside]
posted by Ftsqg at 9:09 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by Ftsqg at 9:09 AM PST - 4 comments
what's wrong with this car
my niece has a car of questionable origin. it lived much of it's life in places with dirt/rutted roads. now it's retired in florida. i noticed something odd and need help identifying the issue. [more inside]
posted by chasles at 8:32 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by chasles at 8:32 AM PST - 4 comments
How to improve my writing skills?
I work as an actuary for a major life insurer. My work involves a lot of writing reports that involve technical details that will be read by audiences who are less familiar with the material I'm writing about than I am. I'd like to try to improve my ability to write business reports more clearly. Wondering if anyone can recommend some books to help with this? Thanks.
Everything has gone pear shaped...
A tree in our backyard is growing this delightful looking fruit which sure looks like pears. Can anyone identify the type of pear/tree and if it's advisable to eat them?
posted by duoshao at 7:06 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by duoshao at 7:06 AM PST - 9 comments
WYSIWYG editors are bad for America
I'm looking for a landing page platform, comparable to Unbounce, which allows me to use fully custom HTML/CSS for pages. (Caveat: not HubSpot.) [more inside]
Looking for a new bicycle helmet
I'm looking for a new bicycle helmet with some specific requirements - mainly for mounting safety lights. [more inside]
Mass, Falling Speed, and Air Resistance
I'm having trouble wrapping my head around the physics of falling speed. The Internet gives contradictory answers with half of all websites repeating Galileo's experiment as if feathers and bowling balls fall at the same speed even outside of a vacuum.
The other half talk about drag and terminal velocity speeding up the fall of heavier objects but not in a way that makes sense to me. Intuitively my mind is even reaching for Newtons 3rd law to reason that heavier objects should fall slower than lighter objects.
I can't find simple, intuitive, non-mathematical discussion of why a heavier object of matched size should fall faster with air resistance (or even if this is actually true -- since some physics websites seem to imply it isn't).
Private company stock options
Help me understand whether it is worth exercising private company stock options. [more inside]
Personal finance for a married couple with different attitudes
My husband and I love each other very much and are compatible in many ways; unfortunately, our attitudes towards money are incredibly different. After a lot of angst and fighting, we’ve come up with a plan that we hope will work for a relationship. Can you look at it and give us any suggestions? [more inside]
Confusion Concerning Radical 96 – a Hanja Question
Is this Hanja —玉 — really radical 96? Wikipedia seems to think so, but I think they are wrong, that this — 王 — is radical 96 instead. Who is right? [more inside]
posted by Chasuk at 5:22 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by Chasuk at 5:22 AM PST - 6 comments
PC freezes when booting, but only if it's been off.
We have a desktop PC that's behaving weirdly on cold boot, and cold boot only. [more inside]
August 26
Back me up buttercup!
Is there any way to retrieve documents (pdf, mostly) that have been SENT to the Kindle app for iPad via the Send to Kindle app? Details inside. [more inside]
Need a simple way to sell or give away paintings
My mother used to paint Chinese-inspired watercolor nature paintings (here's an actual example) and created many dozens of paintings over many years, but is about to move and needs to sell or donate a significant number of them. We've never tried selling paintings. What are our options in the Pasadena or Santa Barbara areas? [more inside]
Points north
What kind of compass should I get for hiking navigation and light orienteering? I know how to use military style lensatics, but don't want to spend that much money. [more inside]
Good basic printer/scanner?
What are latest recommendations on a RELIABLE printer/scanner for a new law student who uses MacBook Pro's? Don't want to spend a fortune. Something I can pick up at Best Buy, for example (not interested in internet purchase at the moment). Don't need color particularly. Really looking for personal recommendations; obviously I can research this on internet sites.
Is a keyhole an object?
Is a keyhole (hole in the ground, etc) an object? Dictionary definition isn't really helping. Thank you in advance!
posted by ftm at 4:57 PM PST - 40 comments
posted by ftm at 4:57 PM PST - 40 comments
Wales v England: potatoes and coffee
I lived in England in 2001, splitting time between Cambridge and London, and visited frequently until 2006. Now I have just come back from a wonderful trip to Wales, and I noticed a few things were not how I remembered them, specifically potatoes and coffee. Are the differences reflective of the differences in English and Welsh culture or just a change over time? See inside for details. [more inside]
posted by maggiemaggie at 4:34 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by maggiemaggie at 4:34 PM PST - 7 comments
When making an alcohol based infusion, just how long is long enough?
Hola!,
My question for hivemind enthusiasts: Is 4-6 weeks really the minimum for alcohol based infusions (Amaro, Limoncello, etc.) or am I just wasting time after the first week or two? [more inside]
If we're taking the lazy way out, shouldn't it be easier than this?
My daughter is 2 and after a lot of upheavals due to travel this summer, she is back to sleeping in our bed with us all night. The upside: baby cuddles! The downside is that we need to cuddle her to sleep and it takes up to an hour. I am not that patient. [more inside]
Bad marriage ended...where do I even start?
I don't even know where to begin. I walked out a marriage counseling session (alone) and the therapist basically told me to go home and lookup "borderline personality disorder". My marriage was abusive emotionally, verbally, and physically (I am male, she hit me and busted my forehead open). She would cycle through a "break up" sometimes weekly. For months the alcohol was out of control. She was smoking pot sometimes hourly (I don't smoke or do drugs). She was sneaking around and sometimes other men were involved. She hid things financially and stabbed me in the back to friends and family.
She had basically moved out and back to her mothers (without actually moving and still wanting all the benefits of being married) for about six months when I finally had the divorce drawn up. [more inside]
Searching for a book!
Hi MeFi,
You've come through for me so many times! Maybe you can help again...
I read a book a few years ago. It was a little book, short, too, with chapters on being thankful for (or at least praising) everyday things. I remember specifically there was a chapter on how wonderful baths are, and another on morning coffee. These were short little chapters, essays really. They were like odes to life's small pleasures. I cannot, for the life of me, remember what the book was called. I read it at a friend's house so never owned it myself. Online Google searches aren't being especially helpful, but probably because I can't remember too many details other than the ones I gave. It was maybe a yellow cover?
Help? Thank you!
Future roommate and potential feelings- a good idea?
I am looking for a flat in a big city where it’s extremely difficult to find accommodation. I went through many castings, put a lot of effort into seeking a reasonably priced shared flat. The last casting i went to, went well, with a male flat we thought it would work great together, we had a long conversation etc. [more inside]
Melody playing while Musgrave talks about suicide in Burns' Vietnam?
In Episode 8 of The Vietnam War: A Film by Ken Burns, veteran John Musgrave talks about his evolving views on the war and contemplating suicide. From 1:23:51 to 1:25:05, a haunting, familiar tune is played by piano. It's on the tip of my tongue (ear?), but I can't place it. Can anyone identify this tune/melody/song and any other version(s)? Thanks!
posted by -->NMN.80.418 at 9:31 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by -->NMN.80.418 at 9:31 AM PST - 4 comments
Chrome displays links from a Favorite Bar with links that go no where
If I go to any website using chrome and then link to the subject I want to see it gives me page after page of links that go no where. At the very end it will show the link I want .
But if I use Edge browser it works as I expect it to work. What is wrong in my Chrome?
Seeking 3D printer in SF Bay Area
I have a small but precious object that I would like to have a replica of: an impression of a handprint in clay. I know absolutely nothing about 3D printing. Looking for a 3D printing shop anywhere in/around the Bay Area that (1) will treat it with care and (2) is willing to do this as a small one-off job. (Bonus question: I expect the resulting object will clearly look like plastic. Do I have any options to make it look more like the clay original?)
Was this comment racist?
We attended a rodeo in a small town in the rural Pacific Northwest recently. There was a sole African-American competitor in an event. The other contestants (4 or 5?) appeared to be white. When it came time to introduce the African-American contestant, the white, middle-aged announcer with a generic rural Western accent referred to him as a "cat." He did not call any of the other competitors "cats." More context follows. [more inside]
Finding a part-time investment advisor
How do I find a financial advisor who doesn't insist on managing investments? [more inside]
posted by btkuhn at 8:36 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by btkuhn at 8:36 AM PST - 7 comments
Perfect Robe - UK Edition
On a recent trip to the USA, I experienced the best robe ever at a day spa: a Robeworks Classic. Help me find this or an equivalent in the UK? [more inside]
At a career crossroads
I just finished the master's degree I went back to school for and need to find a new job. Some limitations complicate this, and I feel stuck. I need to figure out what I want and how I can achieve it, but I don't know how. Help, please? [more inside]
Why Did My Puncture Repair Damage My Alignment?
I took my AWD Nissan SUV in for a puncture repair - passenger rear - and when I drove away the steering was pulling to the right. I went back to the shop and was told that a puncture repair couldn't affect the alignment. I agreed that it was strange, but the alignment was fine pre-repair, and off post-repair. How did this happen, and is getting my alignment done the solution?
Kids and Gender Identity Conundrum
One genderfluid/questioning kid, one cis-presenting kid, some jockeying for attention, and I don't know how to navigate this. Help! [more inside]
posted by lizifer at 6:36 AM PST - 23 comments
posted by lizifer at 6:36 AM PST - 23 comments
Carless Kijiji (& safe shopping)
I need to buy a bunch of furniture over the next few months, and I want/need to buy second-hand. I don't have a car (or a license, for that matter). What's the best way to bring home my purchases?
Bonus: As a single woman, would you go into Kijiji sellers' homes alone? [more inside]
posted by Frenchy67 at 5:28 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by Frenchy67 at 5:28 AM PST - 12 comments
Quality time without food? [snowflake alert]
How do I lovingly tell a family member that I do not want to spend time with them over food, and what are some other ways to spend some quality time? [more inside]
posted by redwaterman at 5:19 AM PST - 16 comments
posted by redwaterman at 5:19 AM PST - 16 comments
Moving and job regrets
It's been a month since I moved for a job, and I'm dealing with feelings of persistent regret and sadness over the move. Everything feels overwhelming and bad at the moment, and I want some help in dealing with next steps. [more inside]
Patagonia travel advice
Help me plan the best way to spend 3 weeks seeing awesome Patagonian nature in January/February [more inside]
posted by neilb449 at 12:08 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by neilb449 at 12:08 AM PST - 7 comments
August 25
How would you read this?
Sometimes I start to think I'm seeing the same story in every tarot reading I do for myself, focusing on the same details and threads of narrative. Tarot-reader friends, how would you interpret this spread with regard to one's life and relationships? I'm happy to answer any follow-up questions that might add context. Cards inside. [more inside]
posted by limeonaire at 9:24 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by limeonaire at 9:24 PM PST - 9 comments
Seeking therapist in the Atlanta area
I'm looking for a talk therapist in the Atlanta area. Probably psychologist rather than psychiatrist. Can you recommend one? [more inside]
Sturdy lampshade pulling apart at vertical seams. How to repair?
I have a sturdy lampshade with a fabric and paper composition. It is pulling apart at the vertical seam. How should I repair this? Is this a job for epoxy or a glue gun and any clever tricks to apply pressure as it dries?
Homemade vegan candy recipes?
I'm looking for recipes for homemade vegan candy. When I try to Google them, however, I get suggestions for "healthy" recipes. I don't want healthy recipes! Snowflake details inside. [more inside]
posted by steady-state strawberry at 6:32 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by steady-state strawberry at 6:32 PM PST - 13 comments
Temperate overnighter - sleeping bag or no?
I'm planning a quick and dirty bikepacking overnighter for next weekend, and need help sorting out which sleep system to take with me. [more inside]
posted by carsonb at 5:21 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by carsonb at 5:21 PM PST - 12 comments
Board Games at Work
I need a board game for a fun business environment. Ideally the game wouldn't be frowned upon by the boss, so anything that helps us be better business people the better. If winning involves bluffing, negotiation or strategy great. Looking for a game that you could drop on a table in any meeting, with any group of people and have some fun / laughs and test our brains / acumen. Anything too complicated or long isn't good. Simple with depth is better. I'm looking for a game that people talk about and becomes a part of our culture.
posted by jasondigitized at 5:00 PM PST - 34 comments
posted by jasondigitized at 5:00 PM PST - 34 comments
Edward R Murrow
I have heard that this quote or some variation of it; "People only care about what comes out of their speakers," was attributed to Edward R. Murrow. I have looked through several sources of his quotes and can't find it though some of his others could be interpreted to mean people's viewing and listening habits keep them comfortable and cloistered. Help me find who said this, or if it was said at all.
I O U, you owe me
Please direct me to a blank downloadable promissory note/IOU form [more inside]
Quotefilter "The experienced traveler never travels to the same place"
I like to travel and I like aphorisms and quotes. I saw once a quote on on of the major quotes collection websites that went like this: The experienced traveler never tries to travel to the same place again because he knows he can not repeat his experiences.
Was a longer quote. I can't find it anymore. Any ideas?
It glowed! I swear!
I spent a few days recently up at Lake George, New York, on the east side of the lake, a good distance up. While enjoying the campfire, I noticed an odd, blue-white, TINY light. [more inside]
posted by annieb at 1:33 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by annieb at 1:33 PM PST - 5 comments
Where do people sell things locally, these days?
I recently moved to a new apartment (in San Jose, CA), and have two free-standing portable AC units and a space heater from my old place that I'd like to sell or otherwise get rid of. They're both in great condition (one less than a year old, smoke free environment, etc). I've tried posting to Craigslist but got no bites, even for less than half of the retail price. Where are people selling things online these days? [more inside]
hey. you. get off of my boob.
I am looking for a reputable resource on nursing at one year and beyond.
In the beginning of nursing, I found KellyMom to be very helpful. Now, at 11 months not so much. It seems like all the resources I can find are geared towards younger babies or babies who are getting supplementation with formula. [more inside]
posted by CMcG at 1:00 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by CMcG at 1:00 PM PST - 9 comments
Convincing baby to eat during the day instead of at night
Our nine month old is awesome but he’s also not sleeping well. One of the problems is that he reverse cycles/eats more at night than during the day. Any suggestions for reversing this? [more inside]
is it possible to be gluten-free-sensitive!?
At a potluck a week ago, I ate one single cookie, and had a bad reaction... [more inside]
Better by design?
I was listing to some music by VNV Nation and one of the phrases in it is "better by design" and it seemed familiar. What is its origin? I googled it but can't seem to track down where it began.
Changing generic birth control side effects and endometriosis
Can different generic versions of birth control affect a person differently? And, specifically, can they be more or less effective in treating endometriosis? [more inside]
you micro-solder and do motherboard repair, what's your field's askme?
I am struggling to find the forum(s) where folks in the cell phone repair / pc repair / data recovery / soldering-and-fixing-tiny-electrical-things-really-well go to ask questions/get advice from others in their fields. Maybe I've just lost my touch, but my googling isn't getting me there. doesn't have to literally be a forum, could be an IRC channel or a discord server or a listserv.. any community type place that has a higher than average number of experienced experts and really serious learners. [more inside]
Can my sandals be reparired?
By beloved Sole Cork Flip Flops are starting to come apart. What's the best way to repair them near Boston? I can't seem to find a replacement. [more inside]
posted by Cogito at 10:02 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by Cogito at 10:02 AM PST - 7 comments
Unemployed, cash running out. How to tap into my 401k?
So I've been out of work for a while after a layoff, and the only money I've got left to live on at this point is the 401k from the old job. What are my options?
My Mac can't see my monitor
I have a very new MacBook Pro OS with High Sierra. I've been using it hooked up to an external monitor. I took it to work because of problems using Word. The IT guy fixed it, but now it won't hook up to the monitor. I took it back in, and he was able to hook it up to an external monitor there, but it still doesn't work at home. He doesn't think anything he did would affect the way it works with the monitor. Help! [more inside]
gifting minefield
I have some great nephews/nieces but an awkward relationship with their parents (and basically all of my family). Every birthday and Christmas is a minefield of gifting anxiety that takes up a lot of my emotional bandwidth - strategies? [more inside]
posted by Tandem Affinity at 9:35 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by Tandem Affinity at 9:35 AM PST - 15 comments
Pretty On The Outside (in Canada).
For the first time in my life, I am interested in cleaning the exterior of my car and protecting it. Searching online leads me to either completely fanatical people with a lot of spare time and money, or people who seem to be shills for various products. The "car care" aisle in the store contain about 500 different products that I don't know if I need. Any reasonable advice? [more inside]
posted by VioletU at 8:24 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by VioletU at 8:24 AM PST - 6 comments
We had some good machines but they don't work no more
Please help me make a playlist of soft post-apocalyptica. [more inside]
Where should I post/submit/distribute technical blog posts?
I want to share my technical knowledge/experience/stories with a wider audience than I get with just posting a link to my personal blog on LinkedIn and Facebook. What's the best way to do this? [more inside]
Refreshing food and drink
Looking for recommendations for food and drink that could be classified as "refreshing": light, not overpowering with flavour, can help you feel hydrated without tasting like plain water, makes you go "aaaaaah". [more inside]
OK to replace Canned Cat Food with Deli Meats?
My indoor/outdoor cats will deign to eat canned food but much prefer roast turkey slices or fresh egg yolks or the leftover salmon skins I feed them. (I also feed them "Rawz" dry food and they catch a few things every week.)
There's nothing particularly healthy in canned cat food (and even Whole Foods organic turkey is cheaper when considering price per gram of protein), so is there any reason not to just give them what they desire?
posted by Jon44 at 4:17 AM PST - 18 comments
posted by Jon44 at 4:17 AM PST - 18 comments
August 24
Got body shamed at work - now what?
A colleague made unacceptable comments about my body, I lodged the concerns with my team leader, who spoke to the colleague's team leader, the colleague's team leader has spoken to the colleague and she would like to apologise but I'm apprehensive. Advice would be appreciated. [more inside]
How do I get this guy to change the way he kisses?
I am in a new relationship with a very nice man who is otherwise a great kisser, but he keeps doing this probing thing with his tongue (like, making it really firm and pointy and wandering around) and I'm at a loss for what to say. Probably I'm expected to do the same and do that tongue-outside-our-mouths writhing around but that is just not for me. At all. The ordinary tongue involvement in the ordinary kissing is really nice and normal and enjoyable. Help.
Possibly losing Medicaid... how to proceed?
I am in a big deal of trouble if I lose my medicaid since I am barely working and am on a number of meds (for depression, anxiety, etc.) that I can't pay for. I am not sure why I may be losing it but I will list some possible reasons inside. I will be going to the office to state my case next Monday - how should I prepare? I cannot lose this benefit at this time or it will really hurt me and my family. [more inside]
Where to buy a wheelchair in Tallinn, Estonia?
I damaged my ankle and am under strict instructions to stay off it. But I am on vacation in Estonia and want to see things! I have crutches but would like to buy a collapsible wheelchair today (Saturday) somewhere in Tallinn. Any leads would be helpful. [more inside]
Femur fracture recovery
Hi all
My grandpa broke his femur( hip) two weeks ago. He had surgery. He is home now but still bes bound. He has arthritis and has bad knees so hard for him to walk. Actually he is non weight bearing on the fractured leg so he would have to hop and that would be near impossible doe him
I am looking for your experience with older family member whi broke their hips ? What was their experience like? How long did it take to walk with a walker? How long was the recoveey time?
Thanks
Looking for time period of Stone Indian tool found
In the spring I turned over in the garden what appears to be a Native American stone side scraper. If I supply photos can anyone give me an approximate time period for it? I live in Southern Ontario.
Downloading videos from Archive.org to my iPad
I have an iPad Mini running the latest iOS. Hey would like to edit some videos from the Prelinger Archives into a short with iMovie. Unfortunately, I can’t figure out how to download videos from the website directly to my iPad, but I can’t figure out how to do this. [more inside]
Sinister Bildungsromans? Help me find more books in my favorite genre
There is a specific type of novel that is the definition of "comfort" for me - a loner attends a school/college, is adopted by an inner circle (usually led by one charismatic member), and after a period of euphoria realizes that there’s something sinister afoot. Donna Tartt’s The Secret History and Lev Grossman’s The Magicians are some of my favorites - are there more? [more inside]
come to my garden, where we believe in evidence-based medicine
Are there any versions of The Secret Garden in which Colin's physical disability is not psychosomatic? [more inside]
Heavy equipment mavens: Purpose of old rubber tires on crane boom?
They're almost finished tearing down an old state office building. As you'll see in this photo, the construction crane has more than twenty rubber tires attached to one side of the boom. What purpose do these tires serve? Construction fencing hid the crane's base--it's probably on wheels or tank-treads, definitely not fixed.
posted by Jesse the K at 4:21 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by Jesse the K at 4:21 PM PST - 7 comments
Is a coffee table made of old letterpress trays safe for my small kid?
I really, really want to buy a coffee table I've found made out of letterpress trays from the 1920s; it's beautiful and absolutely my style. But I have a child under 5 whose brain I'dlike to avoid sabotaging, and old letterpress letters were often made of lead. This table was built in the 70s and has been in use since. The trays are covered with a glass panel. Probably safe or probably not? [more inside]
Looking For Ways To Ethically Make Immediate Cash
I would like to find a way to make immediate cash over the next 2 weeks. I live in Los Angeles. Donating blood is not an option and I do not have a vehicle to drive for Uber or Lyft.
Many thanks in advance.
posted by goalyeehah at 4:05 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by goalyeehah at 4:05 PM PST - 10 comments
Free stock images of people?
Looking for an organized collection of stock images of people -- for free? This is for non-commercial use. There are a gazillion supposedly-free stock sites but as far as I can tell they exist to funnel traffic to paid stock sites. Any hidden gems?
posted by pH Indicating Socks at 4:00 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by pH Indicating Socks at 4:00 PM PST - 8 comments
Those babies don’t make themselves.
I have a saying that Is witty and gets the point across. I’d like to find a more tactful alternative. [more inside]
Carthay Circle’s Old-Fashioned
Last week I was at Disneyland and had an old-fashioned whiskey cocktail at the Carthay Circle Restaurant. It was uh-MAY-zing, and I want to make it at home. How? [more inside]
posted by Andrhia at 3:04 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by Andrhia at 3:04 PM PST - 7 comments
Organizational system for reminders about irregularly scheduled activity
I have a number of hobbies and lightweight skills-development projects and I want a system that reminds me to spend my time on them when I'm not actively taking a class or doing something that requires a schedule or deadline. I want to spend x hours a month on different hobbies, but not pre-schedule specific dates for the different practices. I want a reminder system that isn't a firm scheduling calendar, whether as an app or some kind of pen-and-paper system. [more inside]
posted by twoplussix at 2:42 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by twoplussix at 2:42 PM PST - 5 comments
Resources for de-escalation IRL
I live in Portland, Oregon, so I don't want to call the police when I, for real example, see a physical fight break out/about to break out. What are the best books to read on how to de-escalate? That is, what can I, as a person not in a position of authority, do to break up verbal/physical altercations? What are the go-to books on de-escalation for when the people arguing/fighting are already 'in the zone'? [more inside]
posted by aniola at 1:47 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by aniola at 1:47 PM PST - 9 comments
DIY equinox celebration in Portland, OR
My two best girlfriends and I will be in Portland, Oregon, for the fall equinox. We are looking for a fun, relatively low-key way to celebrate! [more inside]
Where should post my writing in 2018?
I’m starting to explore writing what I believe would be considered personal essays. I’ve done a lot of writing on my hobby on my hobby-specific website, but I want to branch out more. What I don’t know is where to host my writing. [more inside]
Video entertainment for my grandfather
My 95-year old grandfather needs some entertainment. Help me make a playlist of free online videos I can share with his caretakers! I've started collecting them here, to give you an idea: great full-length classical concerts, documentaries with clear visuals and narration (I added one on Ansel Adams; nature/engineering ones are also good), classic visually-arresting films low on dialogue (e.g. The Red Balloon, Buster Keaton), and calm shows like Great British Bake-Off he can zone in and out of. [more inside]
Did I miss the gardening window?
I'm moving next month to an apartment with a patio suitable for gardening (yay!) However, it looks like I've largely missed the window for winter vegetables. Is there anything I can plant at the beginning of October that will do okay? [more inside]
Where should my lonely friend live?
Due to a difficult life, my online friend Camilla finds it hard to make IRL friends. She's currently job hunting and one big question is where she should live. What she needs most is to be in a place where she can make friends and not feel alone. What factors should she be considering? [more inside]
Help me find this '70s activity book series for kids
Oh, this is the longest long shot but you all have done it before. I had a series of "fun stuff to do and make" books when I was a kid in the '70s - maybe 15 books in the series, with hand-drawn illustrations. There were about eight artists who drew all the illustrations for the series - each activity had its own artist. This is an impossible thing to google. [more inside]
posted by queensissy at 10:10 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by queensissy at 10:10 AM PST - 3 comments
Song lyrics games?
So I’m pretty obsessed with the new “game” I made up. We sit in the bar, and one of us has song lyrics up on their phone and the other one tries to recite them. Help me either enhance the game or find websites or apps to play similar games? [more inside]
How much to help a helpless mom with health
I want to support my mother with her recent health troubles, but her helplessness and bizarre interpretations of medical advice are quickly leaving me drained. Sorry for the info dump. [more inside]
Cooking filter: term for a sub-recipe?
Hi. I'm looking for a cooking term that describes a set of ingredients that are combined to make *part* of a whole recipe, like when a cookbook refers to another recipe as one of the ingredients. Is there a standard, abstract cooking term that encapsulates this concept? [more inside]
posted by crookedgrin at 7:46 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by crookedgrin at 7:46 AM PST - 8 comments
Scroll through distinct links?
I'm making a history map that has 1400+ entries with a URL. I want to feed the list of URLs into [X] and then use a USB scroll wheel (like the griffin powermate wheel) to go between the urls. Think public display at a museum. Solve for X. [more inside]
Open/platonic marriage "for the kids"
Anyone here have experience with romantic failure of a marriage and deciding to basically kill the expectation of romantic love in favor of both parties being able to pursue their own romance outside the marriage, so that they can continue to coparent regularly and minimize expenses? More after the cut. [more inside]
What are the cool kids using for private photo/video chat these days?
Couple spending time in different continents looking for a good way of chatting
and exchanging private photos and video. [more inside]
Google calendar updates are the bane of my inbox
Is there a way to send everything from google calendar (invitations, declined invites, updates, etc) to a separate folder or non-inbox location? (Gmail) [more inside]
Books about life on pharmaceuticals
Hullo, looking for books with a first person or limited third person account of being addled while on opiates and adderall. Anything that is adderall-adjacent, like other amphetamines, are fine if they're not IV. [more inside]
posted by angrycat at 6:24 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by angrycat at 6:24 AM PST - 8 comments
List last update: 17/11/1995
I'm looking for webpages from the dawn of the World Wide Web (i.e. 1991-1998) which compile lists of URLs, mailing list addresses, newsgroups, etc., still standing and not updated for over 20 years, such as Mike's List.
August 23
How can I stop trying to control things?
I am trying to get a new job, my old one sucks and I'm tired of it. I'm basically going to work to sit all day and do nothing. I'm sick of it, I didnt go through college just to get told to do nothing. I'm quitting as soon as I can.
However, a myriad of opportunities have shown up. There is one in particular that stands out, a startup with a heavy emphasis in machine learning, its everything I'm looking for in one neat package. I applied there two weeks ago, they answered this Monday and told me they were reviewing my CV and that they would get back to me this week.
As you can imagine I'm going through a lot of anxiety waiting for their response and by wanting to quit my current job. It is getting seriously out of hand. [more inside]
posted by Braxis at 8:09 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by Braxis at 8:09 PM PST - 11 comments
Excellent hot air popcorn popper
I used to have an excellent hot air popcorn popper. Things that made it excellent: [more inside]
posted by metasarah at 6:01 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by metasarah at 6:01 PM PST - 6 comments
Sourcing injectable estrogen
The company that made the estradiol valerate 40mg/ml for intramuscular injection seems to have stopped production earlier this year. The efforts of my doctor's office and myself to find a different source have turned up nil. Anybody else taking it have luck securing a source, or know someone who has? [more inside]
posted by ethiowin at 5:38 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by ethiowin at 5:38 PM PST - 5 comments
help me find my favorite gif
I saw this gif years ago, like right before gif keyboards became A Thing, I think. It is thus:
POV Male gaze scans up sexy lady legs, slinky black dress, classic sexy lady stuff, until it gets to the face and she's making this face.
I believe the woman has brown hair. She's isn't someone that I recognize as being super famous or anything. [more inside]
posted by Grandysaur at 5:36 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by Grandysaur at 5:36 PM PST - 3 comments
Extremely Tiny Head Seeks Perfect Hat
I have a child’s size head. I found a fantastic fedora, finally. But now I need more! Where can I find actual, good, structured fedoras in kid’s/teeny head sizes? Why is this impossible? [more inside]
BC stuff to do
We (adults and 9 year old) are camping in Northern Washington state next week. The weather might not cooperate for our planned water activities and now I'm looking for backup plans. Are there indoor or outdoor things of interest in this part of BC? It looks like Abbotsford or Chilliwack are less than an hour away.
What are the opportunities to help elect Democrats to Congress?
I know of some volunteers looking to help elect Democrats in the 2018 election for Senate, the House, and Governor's races. They are spread out around the country, and I am looking for the best resources for them to get plugged in for any of those races. [more inside]
Open Access journal article - how do authors split cost?
I and three coauthors had an article accepted in a reputable open-access journal. The paper covers work I did as a grad student, and the coauthors were my advisor and committee members. We have not found funding for this and will be paying the $1250 publication fee out-of-pocket. Unless the accepted practice is "first author pays all," what is a reasonable split and how do I politely ask my advisor and possibly other coauthors to cough up? [more inside]
posted by momus_window at 3:00 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by momus_window at 3:00 PM PST - 12 comments
Did your home's level of homemaking while you were growing up matter?
My mom was an excellent homemaker. The house was clean and uncluttered, and we almost always had home cooked food. I am much lazier. We just had our first baby, and I'm thinking about the kind of home I want for her. I loved having a tidy home with ample food, but it's a ton of effort for me, and I worry that it might come at the price of my being a more chill and happy mom. Question: how well kept was your home growing up, and how much of a difference did it make? If you grew up in a loving but cluttered home where there wasn't always homecooked food, was it still a happy home? [more inside]
posted by namesarehard at 2:33 PM PST - 71 comments
posted by namesarehard at 2:33 PM PST - 71 comments
Took second Shingrix shot too early--will this be harmful?
Is it harmful to space Shingrix shots closer than 8 weeks? [more inside]
posted by ragtimepiano at 1:55 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by ragtimepiano at 1:55 PM PST - 4 comments
What was this huge trivia book?
Help me remember this enormous trivia book from my childhood! [more inside]
posted by amicamentis at 1:39 PM PST - 18 comments
posted by amicamentis at 1:39 PM PST - 18 comments
Surgery for Lymphoedema?
A friend has secondary lymphoedema of her arms and legs, following breast cancer, and has permanent swelling. She finds it especially bothersome in her arms as it makes it difficult to find clothes that fit. She's wondering whether surgery to remove the fluid would do any good - or would it just build up again? Any experiences of surgery or other advice welcome. She is in the UK.
posted by paduasoy at 1:33 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by paduasoy at 1:33 PM PST - 7 comments
How to remove detergent smell from clothes and bedding?
I've purchased some second hand items that have a very strong detergent scent. I've tried all of the hacks I could find online (long soak, extra rinse, baking soda in the drum, vinegar rinse, hanging in sunlight, etc.) and some of the items are still quite strongly perfumed. No smoke, pet, or other odors to get rid of--just this sort of cloying laundry detergent smell. Any other ideas for eradication? [more inside]
LA Suggestions for a couple
Looking for suggestions for stuff to do in LA around September 2nd to 5th. [more inside]
Which consultants could recommend marketing software?
My org has grow past the phase of simply looking at something at a conference and saying "oooh that looks cool" and instead are looking for a consultant to look at our marketing software stack/eco-system and recommend a better solution (if one exists). [more inside]
AdBlock and MetaFilter (and NYROB)
Since yesterday-ish (so, since 8/22), there's apparently been some sort of change in either my installation of AdBlock (Safari, current MacOS) and Metafilter. When I load MeFi, I get the text, but clearly none of the CSS. [more inside]
posted by uberchet at 12:05 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by uberchet at 12:05 PM PST - 10 comments
When did "fast" magic show up in fiction?
When did wizards/mages start throwing around fireballs, lightning, and other types of direct intervention in the world? [more inside]
where is this hexagonal hilltop observation platform seen in Goliath?
In season 1 of Amazon's Goliath, Borns Tech General Counsel Leonard Letts and CEO Wendell Corey meet on a platform somewhere presumably near Los Angeles. Article and photo from the scene. [more inside]
posted by ASCII Costanza head at 11:50 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by ASCII Costanza head at 11:50 AM PST - 2 comments
Help me logic finding a new job
YANM career coach, but I would really appreciate advice on finding a new job in a way that makes most sense and will not jeopardize my future career. Other factors: relocation, the job hopping fear, am I entry level?, and going from miserable to job to another. [more inside]
posted by socky bottoms at 11:50 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by socky bottoms at 11:50 AM PST - 5 comments
Just got a dealership mechanic quote: how do I know what's legitimate?
I'm at my local Honda dealership, getting some recall work done on my 2010 Civic. Along with this "free" fix, they've just emailed me a list of ~$500 worth of work they'd love to do. Can you look at the list of items they've listed and help me understand a) how I know which ones need immediate attention, and b) how unreasonable or reasonable these prices seem? This is in Eugene, OR (mechanic recommendations are welcome, too!). [more inside]
Music that sounds like [something]?
Is there an official name for this phenomenon, and what are some of the classic examples of this? [more inside]
posted by rada at 10:28 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by rada at 10:28 AM PST - 14 comments
how to get better at classroom management?
Hi! I'll be teaching an after school extracurricular activity to elementary school kids starting next week. I'd like to learn how I can become more effective at the classroom management aspect of the job. Doee anyone have any good tips or resources they can point me towards? Thanks!
QuickLook video preview on Mac is super fast all of a sudden
I'm on a Mac running High Sierra. Recently the previews of videos on the desktop (select video, hit spacebar) started playing at extra-fast speed. I can't find anything online to explain this, or any instances of other people having this problem. Also, there seem to be no settings or other speed controls for Quicklook. What's going on??
Read gmails showing as unread on iPhone x
I have an iPhone X and I use the gmail app. This didn't use to happen, but in the past maybe year? I will see that I have a new email, read it, close it, and it then still shows as being unread in the app, with the red icon and bold font when I open the app. Not a huge deal but just annoying! Any idea how to fix this?
Sense8 official dvd release?
Does anyone know how I can get a definitive answer on whether Netflix might ever do an official DVD box set release of Sense8 ? [more inside]
posted by Faintdreams at 9:36 AM PST - 1 comment
posted by Faintdreams at 9:36 AM PST - 1 comment
i have no idea who that is
My IRL name is linked to my Twitter account in Google search results and I'm not entirely sure why. [more inside]
Anxiety rearing its ugly head in a new relationship, what do I do?
Background: I'm a 25 year old gay man, and have had known issues with anxiety in the past. Through therapy, I have worked out the root cause of this is a mixture of two things: my natural sensitive tendencies and the rejection of my mother when I came out 6 years ago. I have been out of therapy for 2 years and have felt no real need for it again until now, as I have not had a relationship for 2 years. It is time to face my demons, and I am wondering how. [more inside]
posted by Lewnatic at 9:05 AM PST - 16 comments
posted by Lewnatic at 9:05 AM PST - 16 comments
It probably begins with a murder
You know this type of narrative. Everyone holds a secret and is not who they seem. There are several deliciously intricate conspiracies (to gain wealth or power or love or revenge) underneath the surface. Unknown enemies and allies. Plot twists. Likely set in a castle or manor or court, or in organized crime. Most crucially, characters engage in battles of wits instead of battles of strength- the person who 'wins' in the end (if there are winners) is the person who is most socially or intellectually adept, not the best fighter. I have some examples under the fold; help me find more (in any type of narrative media- books, movies, games, etc). [more inside]
How to force Gmail NOT to put emails from a given sender in Spam?
Gmail is forcefully maintaining that several shops' email newsletters are spam. This means that I keep missing interesting offers from a Korean cosmetics retailer and sales on Nordic clothing for tall women. I've added both senders to my address book, must have marked over two dozen emails as Not Spam, and still Gmail hides every single one. [more inside]
posted by I claim sanctuary at 8:00 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by I claim sanctuary at 8:00 AM PST - 5 comments
Colonial village near NYC
I remember taking a day trip as a kid in 2005 with my school from NYC to a colonial village. It had reenactments of colonial life, stuff like butter churning and blacksmithing. We didn't stay over night so it was a day trip. What colonial villages are close enough to NYC that you can take a day trip to? It definitely wasn't Historic Richmond town. Bonus if it's accessible by public transportation! [more inside]
posted by starlybri at 7:21 AM PST - 19 comments
posted by starlybri at 7:21 AM PST - 19 comments
Where should I live in west-side LA?
I'll be starting a new job in Century City soon, and need to decide where to live. I'm not very familiar with the west side of LA, but so far the area around Culver City / Palms seems like the best option. Is it? If so, tell me about it! [more inside]
I'm a Mac-only web developer. How do you Windows?
It might be the case that my new job won't get me a non-Windows machine. I'm trying to imagine how to recreate my very familiar OSX web development workflow on Windows, especially for command line tools, by thinking through the process of getting a simple script into a sensible toolchain. [more inside]
posted by Kwine at 6:54 AM PST - 17 comments
posted by Kwine at 6:54 AM PST - 17 comments
the newsletter you don't instantly delete
Can you recommend any commercial email newsletters you actually open and enjoy reading? [more inside]
Please help me leave (or help) my crazy, suicidal wife
Wife had bpd and narcissistic personally disorder. She regularly rages, is always suicidally depressed, and I'm waking on eggshells all the time. It needs to stop but we are married, both in the lease, and i pay all of the bills so i can't just leave. [more inside]
Trying to track a childhood guide to fighter planes
In the late sixties two of my favourite books were small, squarish illustrated hardbacks that listed, with quite a lot of technical detail, all the fighter planes in the world from 1914-1945 and (you guessed) all the bombers from the same period. They got lost in one of my parent's periodic moves. and I cannot remember the names or publishers, but they were perfect for an obsessive 12-year-old. Can anyone help? [more inside]
posted by alloneword at 1:11 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by alloneword at 1:11 AM PST - 10 comments
August 22
A backpack, but for the office (and kind-of cheap)
Do you like bags? Do you love giving bag advice? I realized today that I’ve saved ads for this backpack four separate times on Instagram. But I don’t want to pay $200 for a bag! So maybe you can help. My budget is lower than previous asks - $50 or less. [more inside]
Looking for GIF of cat kissing dog
I remember seeing a short GIF on Reddit of a cat and a dog sitting together, face-to-face, and the cat kissing the dog in a remarkably gentle and loving way. It almost felt like I was invading their privacy. I can't be more specific than that, unfortunately. I've searched all over r/aww (everything over 85k karma) and r/animalsbeingbros (everything over 21k karma) for it, but I still haven't found it. Do you know where to find this GIF?
Do NYC Dept of Education background checks include violation charges?
My friend is working towards a teaching credential for the New York City school system. Will their arrest for disorderly conduct, and charge for that violation, show up on the DOE background check, and will it stop NYC DOE from letting them observe classrooms as a student teacher? [more inside]
It's not a retweet .. is it?
Why do news sites double-publish tweets? [more inside]
make money moves
Do you have a positive relationship with ambition (especially in the "working as hard as possible to support the rest of your life" sense)? What helps you cultivate that in a positive, sustainable, healthy way? Especially interested in the perspectives of ambitious women/nonbinary folks. [more inside]
posted by elephantsvanish at 4:40 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by elephantsvanish at 4:40 PM PST - 10 comments
How do I Mexican Potluck?
My company is doing a white-water rafting event. It's two nights at a campground, with rafting on the main day and a "Mexican Potluck" that night. Wait… what is a Mexican Potluck? [more inside]
posted by Anticipation Of A New Lover's Arrival, The at 4:29 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by Anticipation Of A New Lover's Arrival, The at 4:29 PM PST - 11 comments
How to work in alternative(?) education?
I'm passionate about learning and education. I'm beginning to see problems with conventional US schools, and don't know if I'm willing to be part of that system right now. What other jobs support learning, and how do I find/get those jobs? [more inside]
tent caterpillars in our walnut tree?
I looked up the other day and discovered what's probably some sort of tent caterpillar infestation in our walnut tree. What do I do next? [more inside]
I just need a page number: Anthony Powell The Acceptance World
This is going to sound random. But do any of you good mefites happen to have this particular book, Anthony Powell The Acceptance World, in paper form, as in, a book with page numbers? Because I need to find the precise page number for a quote from it. The quote is "He fell in love with himself at first sight and it is a passion to which he has always remained faithful." It is in the first chapter somewhere. [more inside]
posted by Pyrogenesis at 12:31 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by Pyrogenesis at 12:31 PM PST - 8 comments
lookin for music with 'organic' percussion, especially muted snaps/claps
This is going to sound crazy - but I really just love the 'sound-profile' of the muted snaps and claps in this song. Do you know of any other songs with this kind of muted, natural acoustic percussion style? Thanks in advance! :)
Rich, by Cosmo Sheldrake, Anndreyah Vargas [more inside]
Extreme Physical Suggestibility
Since having a stent inserted, I feel frequent chest symptoms, though I'm fine. Living in a Lyme Disease hotspot, I keep sensing non-existent ticks. Having recently returned from a trip where I discovered I'd gotten a couple swollen bug bites, I'm convinced I've brought home bed bugs, and feel them squirming while I try to sleep. None of this stuff pans out, but I can't escape the physical feelings. Is extreme physical suggestibility a condition? [more inside]
posted by Quisp Lover at 10:26 AM PST - 20 comments
posted by Quisp Lover at 10:26 AM PST - 20 comments
Washer Woes
Should I find a washing machine repair person or let this intermittent beeping go on? [more inside]
posted by sarajane at 9:31 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by sarajane at 9:31 AM PST - 2 comments
How do we get our neighbors cat to stop 'living' on our deck?
We live in a rural area, and currently have 4 (indoors) cats and a new 3 month old puppy who we are in the process of trying to train. Our neighbors cat from down the block has adopted our deck as her new residence. She is hanging out, sleeping, peering in our doors and windows, virtually 18 hours a day. We think she is looking for the companionship and play friends that our home has. The cat (female) is extremely friendly, affectionate and comes across starves for interaction and affection from people or other animals. However, she is causing havoc within our home. Our puppy is unable to concentrate or focus her puppy energy on anything but getting to the cat outside. Our cats are constantly at the doors and windows in' puffy tail' hiss mode ready to defend their property. [more inside]
Pretty Fabrics, Papers and other Backgrounds!
I've been in social media forever, but I have my first gig where I'm doing a lot of product photography. I've been cleared to buy some colored paper and fabric backgrounds to photograph products against. What are some fun shops to browse for inexpensive backgrounds? [more inside]
posted by Juliet Banana at 8:18 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by Juliet Banana at 8:18 AM PST - 12 comments
How to get iPad to stop losing place in videos
My iPad, using the TV app, frequently forgets what I've been watching, and when I re-select it, it has forgot where I was in the TV show or movie. How can I fix it? [more inside]
How should I varnish this furniture mural?
I have lots of experience with regular wood finishes, but this is my first time working with paints on furniture. I have painted a mural using acrylic paints onto a bedside table. Now from what I've read, I should seal the mural with some kind of varnish to prevent the acrylic from getting dirty, but what? Should I go with an Artists Acrylic varnish? Am I OK using the matte poly I've used on other furniture? [more inside]
posted by stillnocturnal at 8:07 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by stillnocturnal at 8:07 AM PST - 7 comments
Effect of CPAP on athletic training
All the literature said that I should be getting more oxygen in my sleep. What can I expect in terms of muscular recovery, ability to do more workouts per week? [more inside]
posted by tedious at 7:56 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by tedious at 7:56 AM PST - 6 comments
How can I get rid of a persistent bird mite infestation?
I think I have gamasoidosis (bird mite dermatitis), all of the recommended treatments have failed and it’s making me incredibly anxious/depressed. I believe that all of my possessions are infested.
My options are limited because I'm in a rented property and don't want to be perceived as having brought a problem with me, but I really need to do something to get myself out of this situation. [more inside]
What are some good books to help a friend through mother's cancer?
A very good friend of mine's mother was diagnosed with stage four cancer and is not expected to survive more than a year. I have a hard time in knowing the right words because I have not had the experience of losing someone very close to me. I was looking for books to buy her to help her deal with the feelings she is feeling right now, and ways to prepare her. Also, I was looking for a book that they could fill in together with memories- sort of the books, why I love you when you fill in the blanks- but something a mother and daughter could do together to remember happy times together and something she could keep for memories. Most of the books I'm finding are after death and coping with that, but not the whole process in living with your loved one knowing they will be passing away in a few months and how to make the best of the time. Any good suggestions for these?
posted by MamaBee223 at 5:25 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by MamaBee223 at 5:25 AM PST - 12 comments
vacationing with in-laws and childhood (carry-on) baggage
i grew up in an emotionally abusive home and now i am facing my first destination vacation with my wife's (lovely) family and i am freaking the eff out, should i even go? [more inside]
Pin in Place of a Button in a Button Down Collar?
I was at an event (a shiva, actually) recently and a guy there was wearing a button down shirt with a button down collar, except that instead of a button on one side of his collar (the left side), he had a pin -- sort of like a lapel pin, but smaller. I’ve never seen anything like that before. Is that a thing?
He was wearing suspenders and was jacketless and tieless, if that matters. He was also pointed out to me as being a big Trump supporter/gun stockpiler. (So maybe what I'm asking is: Is this some sort of fringe right-wing thing?)
Go west crone, in your little motor home
Western Australian locals and travellers: how would you spend 8 days south of Perth in a small camper van? [more inside]
posted by Thella at 3:53 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by Thella at 3:53 AM PST - 4 comments
VacationFilter: Europe; Two Weeks; Pregnant
We want to go on a two-week Europe vacation in the second half of September. We're a couple, ~30 years old, one of whom will be 30 weeks pregnant. Wanted Northern Italy but there are basically zero flights left. Suggestions for similarly laid-back, quaint itineraries on a medium budget? [more inside]
August 21
Remember to breathe
I'm interested in the idea of external reminders to check in/take stock/breathe/be present/or whatever, on a regular or random schedule. I have a bunch of faved previous questions that deal with various kinds of physical, visual, and/or technological aids to mindfulness. But they're mostly a few years old. What's new that I will find interesting? [more inside]
Let's hit the road!
I have meetings all over town, but most are accessible by public transit. I'd love to kill the car and eliminate using Uber and just walk/bike or use public transit. But I am having a few fails, can you HALP me? [more inside]
good enough 2k18
When you're in the process of looking for a new job, how do you adopt a "good enough" mindset with your current work? Complication: leaving a new job (very) early. [more inside]
posted by Sock Meets Body at 9:53 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by Sock Meets Body at 9:53 PM PST - 2 comments
Jam sesh
I made a gallon of plum jam and accidentally added too much sugar. It's very sweet. Too sweet. Can I gloop it all out of the jars and cook it with more fruit and more pectin to cut the sweetness, or does jam chemistry not work that way? [more inside]
Getting over a work crush: version 83748
I started a new job. I travelled with new coworker. The conversation was great, and it bled through car travel, meals, several more hours of car travel. A mutual crush became, well, obvious. [more inside]
posted by Kalmya at 8:14 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by Kalmya at 8:14 PM PST - 13 comments
I need translations of Plato's Republic in as many languages as possible
I'm going to be running a Plato's Republic reading group in the fall for an extremely multicultural group of undergraduate students. I'm looking for good translations of Republic in as many languages as possible, paper and/or free-online. What do you recommend? [more inside]
What % am I?
In American politics, we often hear reference to the top "1%" of citizens whose total wealth is equivalent to the total wealth of the bottom 50% (not sure if this is exactly correct, but that's the idea) of citizens.
I am curious to know where I stand, economically. [more inside]
Would you like to share your location?
I live in a certain city in the Midwest because my academic collaborators are here. I've been trying to put down roots in this city, but it really seems like all the communities I care about are on either coast, not here. I'm going to be here for at least another three years. How do I keep from going mad in the meantime? [more inside]
posted by icosahedron at 6:25 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by icosahedron at 6:25 PM PST - 14 comments
I need an app to track how much I use apps
I'm interested in tracking how much time per week I spend on certain apps and on web browsing in general. What are the best apps (iOS and/or Android) that can help me keep track of this?
I'm not interested in blocking or limiting my usage right now, just tracking it. Thanks!
Stylish women who look like me (sort of)
Looking for style blogs by women with average sized apple/rectangle shapes. [more inside]
My kid bites his nails. Help me stop him.
My toddler bites his nails all the time. The pediatrician told me to "redirect" him. I think this advice is hard to follow. What techniques have you used to keep your kid from biting his nails? [more inside]
posted by Vatnesine at 4:42 PM PST - 17 comments
posted by Vatnesine at 4:42 PM PST - 17 comments
September festivals/conventions/retreats in North America?
My partner and I have the whole month of September off from work. Woohoo! Because of Zika and visa issues, we're going to stay in USA & Canada. We have both been lucky to have been sightseeing tourists at a bunch of major cities and national parks. So, for this break we're looking for something different.
Do you have any recommendations for events, conventions, or retreats happening next month? [more inside]
Continuing education classes for physical therapists/massage therapists
Where can I learn about/compare continuing education classes for physical therapists? [more inside]
Edward Abbey — You Can't Stop Progress
I know I've seen the cartoon referenced here, but for the life of me I cannot find it. [more inside]
posted by DakotaPaul at 2:04 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by DakotaPaul at 2:04 PM PST - 3 comments
Gift booze in Burlington
I'd like to pick up some cider/wine/appropriate locally-made alcohol as a gift in/around Burlington, VT. Where should I go (and what product should it be)? [more inside]
oh no, now you have to look at kitten pictures, oops, sorry
Our house has been graced with the presence of a small kitten with a large backstory, and he has not immediately told us what his name should be. If you want to help us out, you will be rewarded with kitten pictures within. [more inside]
Best short story, genre-fiction magazine subscriptions
I want to read short stories to help me develop my own writing prowess. Which magazines would you recommend? Bonus points for Kindle-based subscriptions. My preferred genres (though I'm interested in anything well-written): sci-fi, fantasy, horror, war (beginning with WW1), "weird" fiction/cosmic horror. Anything which you think would be useful for a burgeoning writer would be welcome.
posted by miltthetank at 12:30 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by miltthetank at 12:30 PM PST - 5 comments
Weird and wonderful Seoul~
I’ll be traveling to Seoul, SK in three days to visit my brother and attend his PhD graduation (yay!). There will be plenty of sight-seeing of tourist spots with family, but will want some solo time to do my own thing. What are some fun things that are on the weirder side, or queer-friendly? [more inside]
Recipes for a great sauce with really concentrated flavours.
I had a meal in a fancy restaurant a few days ago and was really impressed with the sauces served with the food. I want to make sauces like that. [more inside]
posted by night_train at 11:04 AM PST - 19 comments
posted by night_train at 11:04 AM PST - 19 comments
How do aspiring fiction writers get better at plots?
I'm doing a little fiction writing. A very little. I've always been ok at some parts of writing (dialog, description) but find the generation of plot to be a mystery. Is this something one can learn? [more inside]
putting the card before the check
When we go out to eat, my partner tends to hand over a card to pay the bill before our server has delivered the check. I think this is a bit rude, or at least dismissive of accepted restaurant dining practices.
Is there a "right" way to pay the bill?
I'd particularly be interested in hearing from folx who have worked as servers. Is it annoying when customers do this? Does it mess up your process? Or am I being too self-conscious about something that's no big deal?
A few more details below. [more inside]
posted by adastra at 10:55 AM PST - 48 comments
posted by adastra at 10:55 AM PST - 48 comments
Audiobook recommendations for cross-country trip
I have 2 freebies at Audible but I have too much packing to decide! I would like something that's fairly smart, while still being the audio equivalent of a page-turner. Ideally one fiction and one nonfiction. Thrillers and mysteries, true crime, and history preferred, but beggars can't be choosers...
Podcast recs that fit the criteria also welcome!
Professor/grad student bars in Tucson, Arizona?
Tucson has a lot of undergrad-heavy bars and straight-up sketchy dive bars, but where do the grad students and professors wet their whistle?
Should I buy a second dress to attend a multi-day wedding?
I'm invited to a Hindu wedding that takes place over two days (an evening reception followed by a morning ceremony). Should I wear a different dress for each day? [more inside]
posted by spaet at 9:39 AM PST - 17 comments
posted by spaet at 9:39 AM PST - 17 comments
Explain Android terms: memory versus RAM.
I have a tracfore ZTE ZFIVE@ LTE with 1 GB RAM, 8 GB Memory and 32 GB SD card. The phone uses nearly all of the 8GB memory and I cannot add any new apps. Do I have to buy a new phone with more RAM to add apps?
Bring Out Your Android Apps!
I am revising app choices on an Android phone and an Android tablet. Please tell me your picks for non-Google non-Facebook non-Microsoft apps. Similar Ask from 2014.
I already use Signal for messages and usually browse with Firefox. I am keen to replace the Google default app suite ie Camera, Calendar, Contacts, Phone, Maps etc.
More interested in in functional apps to make life simpler or more interesting, less interested in games.
Tracking website usage in Chrome on Mac?
I have no idea how much time I actually spend working. I get up in the morning, start work, and then hours go by and I quit when I am finished. My work is split between two employers, and I use their websites to do it. For a number of reasons, I need to actually start calculating my work time more accurately. [more inside]
Kids books with intricate illustrations
My 4-year-old daughter and I enjoy reading books with intricate illustrations/photos (examples inside). Can you recommend some more for us to pore over? [more inside]
Public speaking: no problem; Private socializing: unpossible
Is there a Toastmasters except instead of for public speaking it's about small talk with different types of people and other forms of one-on-one communication? I've realized that what is holding me back in multiple areas of my life is my discomfort with talking one-on-one with people I don't know, outside of a few familiar contexts. [more inside]
Managing Instagram followers...is there an easy way to do so?
Is it possible to use a third-party site to manage the IG accounts I follow? Or am I stuck having to use the IG app to manage this? [more inside]
posted by stannate at 8:06 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by stannate at 8:06 AM PST - 2 comments
How do I give feedback on a new friends self-published book if it's bad?
I am an unpublished writer who recently made a new writing friend! Hurray! However, my new writing friend has self published a book, and she's asked me to read it and tell her what I think. This book is blatantly not good and she has no idea. What do I tell her? [more inside]
posted by bridgebury at 7:48 AM PST - 39 comments
posted by bridgebury at 7:48 AM PST - 39 comments
From Python to C++
I'd like to learn C++, and I'm looking to do it with a relatively structured course or set of exercises rather than the "dream up a project and fake your way through it" approach. My programming background is in Python, which I'm really quite fluent in — so I don't want a "learn to program" or "learn what classes are" course, but pointers and memory management will be new. I would spend money on an online course if it was the best option available. Suggestions? [more inside]
posted by nebulawindphone at 6:59 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by nebulawindphone at 6:59 AM PST - 8 comments
Help me find this tweet
Please help me find something I saw on Twitter a couple months ago. The text read as a kind of fratty dude who is vocalizing support for leftist/human rights causes such as a Medicare For All while also admitting he is too stupid to argue the finer political nuances with opponents. It was way funnier than I am making it out to be, but it's driving me crazy that I can't find it. [more inside]
diagnosing foot pain
I've had an on and off ache in one foot and I'm trying to find out if there are things I can do to ease it. [more inside]
Mobile Friendly Wordpress Theme That's Customizable
I need to create a Wordpress website and it's very important that it look good and be easy to navigate on mobile devices. I also want to be able to customize the look and layout of the theme via menus.
I probably would have chosen Atahaulpa a long time ago when I was much more knowledgeable about WP than I am now. Atahaulpa hasn't been updated in two years and there are probably better tools/themes now. Please tell me about them. [more inside]
Last Will and Testament and Power of Attorney
I need to make a Last Will and Testament and probably a Power of Attorney.
Do I get an attorney or use online resources? [more inside]
What are the two fonts on the Dixon Ticonderoga pencil?
Pretty much just what the title asks. Here's an image of a yellow Ticonderoga pencil with the words embossed in green foil. What two fonts are those?
Books/papers on how social media and attention
I'm interested in learning more about the science and techniques of how social media platforms build engagement and capture attention. I'm looking for the nitty-gritty details of what they do and why it works so I can use these powers (for good!) in some of my work projects.
What books, papers, talks, or other more-rigorous-than-pop-psychology sources would you suggest?
Recommend me a (better) social media tool
I've ended up having to juggle a large number of social media accounts, for myself, work and other ends. I've used Buffer for a few years but functionality is actually decreasing (not due to Buffer's). What tools will let me: (a) schedule posts across different services & accounts, (b) use a browser extension to clip webpages (e.g. "look at this" posts) for post, (c) do this for a Facebook personal profile? [more inside]
August 20
How to calculate probability three things will be on same day of week?
If I know Event 1 will happen three times in a week, Event 2 will happen four times, and Event 3 twice, how can I tell how likely they will be to happen on the same day (assuming they're random)? [more inside]
Recovery from CMV - what to expect?
After six weeks of misery I've finally gotten a 100% diagnosis for an active case of CMV (Human Cytomegalovirus) Looking for stories/data points of those who have been through this! Specifically - how to avoid developing CFS or any other chronic condition post-recovery. [more inside]
posted by LongDrive at 9:21 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by LongDrive at 9:21 PM PST - 5 comments
How to run an expression pedal to multiple other pedals?
Guitar players—what is the best way to run a single expression pedal through 3-4 other pedals simultaneously? [more inside]
posted by deern the headlice at 8:01 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by deern the headlice at 8:01 PM PST - 7 comments
Suggest some podcasts for my father
My father used to be an avid reader, but he recently went blind. I'm looking for some podcasts that he might enjoy. [more inside]
Timelines of stage productions
How long do stage productions take to manifest, from the moment there's an idea to when the show gets on stage for the first time? What are some specific examples of production timelines? [more inside]
Sleep Hath Murdered MacBook
Several months ago I was typing away in a comment field on a website in Safari on my early 2015 MacBook, running the version of High Sierra just prior to the current one, when the screen went black just like it would when it went to sleep, or would if I'd ignored the 10% and 5% battery level warnings. [more inside]
posted by jamjam at 6:09 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by jamjam at 6:09 PM PST - 5 comments
How to keep electric toothbrush clean?
I've had this toothbrush for a couple of years now and didn't know it could get so disgusting. [more inside]
Heat Safety for Cat on a Porch
Recently, a stray cat has adopted my household. I live in a teeny tiny house and already have four cats. Believe me when I say that there is no room in this house for a fifth cat (plus there are personality issues that make another cat impossible). Can I try to befriend this cat while confining her to my outdoor, screened in, roofed porch? I worry that it is too hot outside. [more inside]
posted by ZeroDivides at 4:39 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by ZeroDivides at 4:39 PM PST - 10 comments
How to shift my medication schedule while in Europe?
I take my Lexapro every night at 9:30 pm. This weekend, I'm leaving on a weeklong trip to Europe. This is the first time I've traveled abroad since taking the medication, and I'm having anxiety about the best way to handle this. How should I transition to a new medication schedule? See more below. [more inside]
posted by leftover_scrabble_rack at 4:34 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by leftover_scrabble_rack at 4:34 PM PST - 13 comments
How do I go about finding a mid-level job in USA? (I speak Chinese)
I am a young woman with a college degree from China, I have a green card and I majored in English. I want to get a job (preferably that uses my Chinese skills) that pays at LEAST $20 an hour (full time). My main work experience in the USA is with a Chinese shipping company for 2 years where I made $20 an hour. How do people find jobs nowadays? All I've done so far is find companies to apply for on indeed.com Any tips or advice is welcome!
Sense check on animal wellness/animal cruelty check
Is a pervasive animal waste smell in a stranger's yard enough reason to call for an animal cruelty check? [more inside]
posted by rachaelfaith at 2:25 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by rachaelfaith at 2:25 PM PST - 10 comments
Eurogames for iPhone
I have an iTunes gift card and I'd like to use it to upgrade the timewasters on my phone. Looking for Euro-style or puzzle games to play on a (very) small screen. [more inside]
I need to store books, not an apothecary shop.
Looking for recommendations on non-dowdy looking cheapish (like say sub-$100) bookcases to HOLD BOOKS. Everything I see online is pictured holding a human skull, several candles, an antique awl, and 14 art books. I have a lot of books. Also, no Ikea please. Their stuff just seems like it's getting worse and worse. I know for the price I'm getting particleboard and not solid walnut but I'd prefer it to not be Ikea. Thank you!
Name that font: Old timey postcard edition
I'm making an old timey invite out of a postcard and would like to try to match the font the best I can.
Post card image is here. I'm specifically looking to match the small font in the stamp square / "THIS SPACE FOR ADDRESSES ONLY." font.
Can anyone help me identify this font?
posted by sewellcm at 1:37 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by sewellcm at 1:37 PM PST - 5 comments
I'd rather be in his world...
I have a hazy memory of a comedy sketch that focused on the thoughts of a backing singer as he supports a female singer through a song. In my poor and pock-marked memory, it's Gladys Knight and the Pips singing Midnight Train to Georgia but that might only be because that track prompted this memory and I think I can picture the backing singer making that train whistle pull on the whoo-whoo! [more inside]
posted by humuhumu at 12:30 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by humuhumu at 12:30 PM PST - 4 comments
RunningFilter: What should I do to fix behind-the-knee pain?
After running short distances, I have a pain/ache behind the left knee. It goes away after a rest of a few days but then comes back again when I run. What can I do to fix this? Is this because I've got weak muscles in the knee area? If so, what would be an exercise regime for it?
My rats have been escaping from their cage - what should I do?
I have two new rats who have figured out how to squeeze out between the bars on their cage. What should I do? [more inside]
Large Print Typewriter
I'd like to buy a typewriter (mechanical or electric but DEFINITELY NOT DIGITAL) that prints in a larger font than is standard. The bigger the type the better. [more inside]
Do I take the part time job?
Is it better to work 15 hours a week or keep looking? [more inside]
I need some plum good ideas.
We have plums. Lots of plums.
My husband and I are the new owners of a fabulous and prolific golden plum tree.
We have plums coming out of our ears this week. We can only eat and barter and give away just so many. We still have, probably, a couple hundred more pounds. [more inside]
posted by SLC Mom at 11:54 AM PST - 25 comments
posted by SLC Mom at 11:54 AM PST - 25 comments
Funny blog from about a decade ago?
I used to love a blog that I think was called STORYTIME!
It was very funny, specific childhood stories, using a lot of (maybe all?) capital letters.
Anyone remember it? A few half-remembered details inside. [more inside]
posted by pseudostrabismus at 11:53 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by pseudostrabismus at 11:53 AM PST - 5 comments
How to relate when you feel un-relatable?
I know this is a very common situation, but I'm struggling all the same. I have a hard time relating to people in general, but now it's really hard for me to look past racism, homophobia, misogyny, and other bigotries. I realized this weekend most things I do are either pretty politically charged or very niche. My in-laws are visiting and it's been hard. Help! [more inside]
posted by sock potato at 10:52 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by sock potato at 10:52 AM PST - 12 comments
Job Interview in a Different City. Help!
I have a job interview a month from now in a different city. I will be flying. Need advice on how to do this on the DL. [more inside]
Help my prof: my classmate accidentally messed up their evaluation
My classmate marked all negative boxes on their eval and I am 100% certain it was an accident. What, if anything, should I do? [more inside]
Selling pricey will call only tickets
Have you bought or sold true "Will Call only" tickets on Stubhub or Craigslist before, where the buyer and seller actually had to meet at the venue? Which is better? How does this work, especially when large amounts of money are involved (say $500+)? [more inside]
Block party birthday ideas (little kid edition)
Looking for creative ideas for a block party birthday (street closed down) for kids who are 4-6. What has worked for you? [more inside]
posted by anya32 at 10:27 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by anya32 at 10:27 AM PST - 9 comments
Please get the fuck out of my house.
Have you ever filed for an "ejectment" in WA state? How did you get your SO to leave your house?
In March my SO and I had an incident that culminated in his arrest, charges of assault and property destruction against him, and a Protective Order between us. Long story short, charges were eventually dropped and the PO was cancelled. While the PO was in effect, SO was living with a friend. For me, the day he was arrested was the day he stopped living in my home...... [more inside]
How to vacation
Mr. 77 and I are heading to San Diego this weekend for 4-5 days. We haven't vacationed much outside of visiting family, and I'd like your help with general advice as well as San Diego-centric advice. [more inside]
posted by hydra77 at 9:43 AM PST - 21 comments
posted by hydra77 at 9:43 AM PST - 21 comments
Seeking phone service to be used just for outgoing messages
I need to set up a number for people to call to receive pre-recorded announcements. The announcements will be changed every few days. [more inside]
The perfect projector for us
I am exhausted by looking for a projector. Please just tell me which one to buy? [more inside]
What dinner dish should I bring for a beach bonfire?
I was invited to a small beach bonfire and was asked to bring a "small, easy-to-eat dinner dish". So I am looking for proven ideas and or specific recipes from the crowd. [more inside]
Source of quote about tourists: "They even bring their own sandwiches"
I remember reading of somebody, a resident in a traditional rural area, who on observing first visitors in the early years of tourism, reacted with dismay to the visitors' lack of engagement with the local economy. The quote was something like "They even brought their own sandwiches". I'd like to know where that quote is from? [more inside]
Looking for Luxury Resort, Spa in Traverse City, MI and advice Mackinac
Hello,
I am reaching out for recommendations for a Luxury Resort, Spa and fun things to do in Traverse City, Michigan. I am looking for a spa with massage, something relaxing.
I would also to spend one day in Mackinac Island, so I would love ideas.
How do I insurance from afar?
I am constructing a proposal to my bosses to allow me to work remotely, because I want to move to a different city. How do I sort out insurance? [more inside]
like a kid at sleepaway camp
I am overcome by homesickness and it is interfering with my work. [more inside]
posted by quadrilaterals at 2:17 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by quadrilaterals at 2:17 AM PST - 12 comments
How do I sleep 10 hours if I have to get up at 5am?
5am is when I start my kid's school bus routine. By 6am, she's away until 1pm. My other kids have shifting schedules and work late so I don't see them until 8-10pm. I need 10 hours of sleep to do much better. But sleeping at 7pm means I'd see my kids once or twice a week. Is there a way I can split my sleep regularly to get real sleep, not short sleep and a bad nap? My schedule is my own otherwise as I work from home. Has anyone managed this without going nuts?
Did you ever get used to hard (RGP) contact lenses?
Did you switch from soft to hard contact lenses and got used to the pain/discomfort? What helped? Does it get better if you stick to the regiment? I'm looking for experiences of people that had no other choice. Last time I tried I gave up because my eyes couldn't stop crying. [more inside]
August 19
Story-ID time!
Recognize this online novella? An AI gains both sentience and the ability to physically transform reality. Now no human can die and some people play elaborate violence/consent games. Protagonist is a violence-game expert who has to travel through a series of obstacles so she can confront the AI or its creator. Written in a pretty over-the-top style, with plenty of sex and gruesome detail (and gruesome sex detail). Not traditionally published / freely available on the web (as of a decade-plus ago).
posted by kalapierson at 11:22 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by kalapierson at 11:22 PM PST - 2 comments
Looking for Native American philosophy in a native voice.
Looking for casual or academic Native American philosophy in a native voice. I'd like native authors or interviews with natives as opposed to academic books about Native American thought or overviews. [more inside]
Image Search in the Meat Space
When I was in college, my group of friends were big fans of Max Cannon's Red Meat. There was one strip that we quoted regularly that (if memory serves me, which it likely doesn't) ended with Ted Johnson standing and saying something about a "piping hot mug of milk gravy". I need to find a copy of this strip, for reasons, and can't. Halp?
Living-room appropriate exercise mats? MAGIC EXERCISE RUG???
I live in an apartment with hardwood floors in the living room and I would like to be able to do stretching and pilates on a cushion-y exercise floor without having to roll out a mat (keeping it rolled up would mean I would have to find closet space too)
Also, I want it to look cool.
Is there something like... attractive exercise carpet that anyone here has tried? [more inside]
Flying from Chicago to Frankfurt, Germany in 1984
I am writing a story that involves flying from Chicago to Frankfort in 1984 on Lufthansa Airlines. Would anyone be able to tell me the cost of a round trip plane ticket for a such a flight? Or suggest a helpful source? I have Goggled like crazy and not been able to find the information I need. Thank you very much!
posted by Ira Weston at 7:48 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by Ira Weston at 7:48 PM PST - 9 comments
Jean jacket interpretation
I got a jean jacket at the thrift store today. Can anyone tell me more about the embroidery on the jacket generally or the patch specifically, which apparently refers to the Vietnam War in Vietnamese? [more inside]
Not a single miss
Tell me about bands where every single song is amazing. [more inside]
Marriage counselor + financial planner + career coach = ?
My husband and I have a challenging year ahead with lots of life transitions. We need someone, or a team of someones, to advise us (and help us stay married). But who, exactly? [more inside]
Experiences with MS or other chronic illnesses
It's likely that I have M.S. and I'm freaking out. I'm looking for personal stories from people who have it or have had experiences with it (significant other, family member) and how it's affected your life. [more inside]
posted by thebots at 6:45 PM PST - 27 comments
posted by thebots at 6:45 PM PST - 27 comments
ToiletFilter: How do I get this stain out?
Yes, I used The Goog first. I've tried a chemical intended for iron stains, a vinegar soak, and Limeaway. Nothing has worked yet. Photo is of stain + useless Limeaway. Suggestions?
posted by 4midori at 4:09 PM PST - 19 comments
posted by 4midori at 4:09 PM PST - 19 comments
Why do acquaintances think I have grown taller as an adult?
This might be an unanswerable question but I'm too intrigued by this strange phenomenon to pass up the chance to ask. I saw a group of people I mostly haven't seen in several years today and many of them (separately) exclaimed that I was taller! I am almost 30 years old though and pretty definitely not taller than I was ten years ago. What's going on? [more inside]
posted by raspberrE at 4:05 PM PST - 20 comments
posted by raspberrE at 4:05 PM PST - 20 comments
Photo Sharing without multiple accounts?
Of all the cloud based photo sharing options (Flickr, Dropbox, Box, Google Photos, etc.) are there any in which an individual sets up an account and sends a share link to multiple others, where the others can upload photos without creating their own accounts on the site? [more inside]
posted by The Architect at 3:53 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by The Architect at 3:53 PM PST - 5 comments
Anyone here with co-dependent parents? To move or not to move near them?
I’m a first generation Asian American living in the States. I’m also an only child. My parents, though having been here for over 14 years, still speak very little English. As you can imagine, I do a lot for them. They’ve pretty much used me as a crutch for doctor visits, translating mails, even taking them to places they aren’t familiar with because they can’t figure out the GPS.
I moved 3 hrs away from them and in with my fiancé about a year ago. Since then they expect me to come back to see them every other week and stay the weekend. Whenever they have dr appts it becomes even more burdensome as I would need to come back on a week day. Therefore I’m thinking of moving back to live near them just so I can help them out easier. My fiancé has agreed to this arrangement as long as we don’t live with my parents. [more inside]
Molly Maid vs Craigslist vs Yelp
Is Craigslist still a good go-to for home cleaning service in Chicago? I'm leaning towards Yelp for lack of any other alternative though I know reviews can be faked. I've never used Molly Maid. Has anyone had luck with this from CL? Any recs?
posted by jojo and the benjamins at 3:19 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by jojo and the benjamins at 3:19 PM PST - 5 comments
Mushroom ID requested.
What kind of mushroom is this? They pop up at night, usually after some rain, in cedar mulch along my high rise street here in Chicago. Usually dies almost right away when it gets sunny.
posted by srboisvert at 3:15 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by srboisvert at 3:15 PM PST - 2 comments
Origin of casual celebrity YouTube interview trend?
When did this more casual celebrity YouTube "interview" trend start? Who started it? I'm thinking of things like Wired's Google Autocomplete interview, Vanity Fair's Tinder hijack, GQ's celebs go undercover on social media, and Vogue's 73 Questions. [more inside]
Regional equivalents of the Black Bear Diner chain?
I've moved from California to Pennsylvania, and I'm having to reset my road-trip list of good food! Help! [more inside]
posted by scrump at 1:06 PM PST - 19 comments
posted by scrump at 1:06 PM PST - 19 comments
Help me find this binder clip
Please help me buy more of these clever side-closing binder clips. The originals were purchased in a Japanese grocery in the USA, but they don't carry them anymore (and can't special order them, per the person who showed me the clips). WANT! Help?
posted by janell at 12:47 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by janell at 12:47 PM PST - 3 comments
Best vacuum for allergies?
I want to buy a new vacuum that triggers my dust-mite allergy as little as possible. I'd like to hear from actual allergy sufferers about what vacuums have and haven't worked well. [more inside]
posted by nirblegee at 12:18 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by nirblegee at 12:18 PM PST - 13 comments
What actors played (different) title characters on two or more TV shows?
I co-run a trivia night and had the idea for a category when I realized that Bob Denver played both Gilligan in Gilligan's Island and Dobie Gillis in The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis. (It turns out that piece of trivia is false, as he played Maynard G. Krebs, but you get what I was going for...) Ditto Scott Baio as both [Joanie loves] Chachi and Charles [in Charge.] What are some others?
Money can be exchanged for goods and services (but not for Netflix)
I've recently moved, and am trying to set up a Netflix account for myself. When I try to do this, I get an error message: "There appears to be a problem with the payment method you are trying to use." But my credit card is working fine everywhere else. I tried my partner's card (same issuer, different number) and got the same error message. I called Netflix, and the CSR said "the problem is not with your card." So the problem is with Netflix... but they either can't or won't fix it? [more inside]
posted by halation at 10:21 AM PST - 17 comments
posted by halation at 10:21 AM PST - 17 comments
Strange mix of birthday guests
Our daughter is turning one next week. While a first birthday doesn't necessarily call for a full-blown birthday party, we taught it would be nice to honor the day by inviting a few friends and family for a small celebration. Now a really strange mix of guests rsvped and I am unsure how to proceed. [more inside]
Help me find this jacket please!
Please help me find this awesome jacket that the character Janet wears in S2E1 of Kim's Convenience. Seen here (from 12:03), it's a denim, military-style jacket with a bomber/baseball style collar. Despite a lot of googling various combinations of words I cannot find one like it! Thanks in advance.
Pass on the salt please
What else can I put in a salt mill besides salt? I've got a nice Peugeot salt mill that has been sitting idle for a decade. Want to replace the salt with something compatible with its grinder. [more inside]
help me get large
I'm a trans guy who has been exercising more. I want to be big and strong, but I have some concerns. I want evidence-based food and activity recommendations and fear the Internet is giving me advice from Gaston. [more inside]
posted by bagel at 9:21 AM PST - 19 comments
posted by bagel at 9:21 AM PST - 19 comments
Best fruit-filled breakfast pastries
We have a bunch of fresh blueberries in our fridge, and I’m about to go pick a bunch of blackberries. I want your best recipes for breakfast pastries, especially muffins, that have tons of fresh fruit and are at a good intersection between healthy and tasty. Thanks!
Palliative Radiation and Chemotherapy for Non-curable Cancer
My father was recently diagnosed with bile duct cancer (Cholangiocarcinoma), and he is concerned that the recommended radiation and chemo treatments will extend life (average life expectancy at this point is about a year) at the expense of quality of life. What are people's positive and negative experiences with these types of treatment? [more inside]
posted by mkuhnell at 8:22 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by mkuhnell at 8:22 AM PST - 9 comments
more gradual running app
I did couch to 5k. the later stages of the program progress too steeply in difficulty for me.
I'm looking for an app which will glide me more gently towards that final run. Android phone. [more inside]
posted by Cozybee at 7:56 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by Cozybee at 7:56 AM PST - 10 comments
What are some great books for a 1.5-year-old that use the term "Mama"?
Every parent has their own preferred term of address. We have a lot of "daddy" board books, but comparatively few "mama" selections. I'd like to change that. What does the hivemind recommend? [more inside]
posted by a series of tube socks at 7:49 AM PST - 17 comments
posted by a series of tube socks at 7:49 AM PST - 17 comments
Need to locate federal & state landholdings. Hope me?
I need to concoct a list of federal and state government land holdings within a 100 mile radius of a specific area. I figured this would be as easy as just locating a database and querying it...but I was horribly wrong. Please hope me? [more inside]
How to delete all of a file extension from Time Machine backups.
I'm having a Time Machine space crisis. How can I delete all the versions of VMs that I've daftly included in the backups? [more inside]
Go Team Karma
My NFL fantasy team draft is coming up, and after a couple years of unknowingly picking players mired in abuse scandals and the like, and I want try to put together a team that's a bit more morally upstanding. Who should I be keeping an eye out for? [more inside]
posted by robotdevil at 7:03 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by robotdevil at 7:03 AM PST - 7 comments
Standard educational attainment scale
For research on health, psych, sociology, econ, etc, is there a standard way of recording the subject's education level? [more inside]
Should I take up the harp if I can never afford a pedal harp?
I've always dreamed of playing the harp but I can only afford a lever harp. [more inside]
posted by whitelotus at 6:15 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by whitelotus at 6:15 AM PST - 5 comments
Scrabble dictionary woes
My husband and I are playing scrabble with a dictionary that is 20 years old. We are only allowed to play words that are in this dictionary - so, the names of Hebrew letters or Russian political positions are ok, but Filipino cake is not. Is there a more modern, global, "official" or unofficial dictionary we could use instead? Also, I'd love to hear about any house rules you have for what is and is not allowed in your scrabble games!
Please settle a perennial naming controversy
Which part of a backpack is the front? Is it the part with the straps, which is at the front when you wear the backpack, or is it the outermost part that faces you when you're following a person wearing a backpack? [more inside]
posted by flabdablet at 5:19 AM PST - 28 comments
posted by flabdablet at 5:19 AM PST - 28 comments
Online marriage counseling recommendations?
We have an infant and I don't think we would be able to see someone out of the house. Does anyone have anyone they would recommend? It seems difficult to pick out of Google results because I don't want to choose someone based on their SEO skills. More details about the issue inside if you want to give advice/TLDR. [more inside]
Why does wiping hurt?
I recently began wiping front-to-back after urination after being told by my doctor that is the correct method. My skin is now sore and irritated in a way it never was when I wiped middle-to-front. (I never started in the back/near the perineum.) I dread having to urinate now because it is so uncomfortable. The soreness and irritation lasts for hours after I wipe. Am I doing this incorrectly? Is this normal for females?
Calling all ecologists! and anyone interested in freshwater protection
A southern NZ lake has sediments which are heavily polluted with agricultural phosphate (this is common here). A call to the science community for solutions resulted in engineered or chemical solutions only - which come with a slew of new problems. I intuit there could/should/must be a biological solution based on harvesting and community involvement. [more inside]
posted by unearthed at 4:15 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by unearthed at 4:15 AM PST - 12 comments
Factory Reset Protection Bypass APK for Android - Malware or Legit?
A co-worker asked me for help with his late wife's Samsung Galaxy S7. He performed a factory reset in preparation for claiming the phone for his own use, but Android's Factory Reset Protection doesn't like the Google password that he's tried. I researched a possible solution, but it feels sketchy to me, and I'd like some second opinions. [more inside]
posted by radwolf76 at 12:14 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by radwolf76 at 12:14 AM PST - 2 comments
What's the best way to input data on my phone throughout my workday?
What's the best way to input data on my phone throughout my workday? I'd like to collect data on miscellaneous things, such as how long I'm spending on various tasks per day (eg. "minutes spent at morning tea"), exercise (eg. "steps taken before 12pm"), caffeine intake and timing (eg. "number of coffees consumed", "time of first coffee"). Many of the variables will be repeated each day, but I'd like the flexibility to be able to add more variables when the need arises. What's the best way for me to do this on my phone? [more inside]
posted by surenoproblem at 12:00 AM PST - 1 comment
posted by surenoproblem at 12:00 AM PST - 1 comment
August 18
How Do I Stop My Friend From Marrying the Wrong Person?
I know what you're going to say. Ultimately, that the popular answer to this question will be "You can't". Chased with a shot of perennial favorite "It's none of your damn business anyway." But hear me out. Because I feel like it's kind of my fault... [more inside]
posted by ChickenBear at 10:00 PM PST - 29 comments
posted by ChickenBear at 10:00 PM PST - 29 comments
Downsizing and computers
My husband and I'll have to downside to a 1-bedroom (500-700 square feet) if we want to buy within the urban core. We can probably do it with some vicious purging... but have no idea how to handle our two (mine, his) two-monitor desktop computer setups. We're really not into getting rid of them. Any thoughts on how to do this? [more inside]
posted by flibbertigibbet at 9:08 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by flibbertigibbet at 9:08 PM PST - 11 comments
seeking a financial advisor for student debt - or details on how to seek
- or your own experience with a student debt counselor!
If anyone can recommend a financial advisor for a student debt situation in the Cleveland (OH) area, I'll take it! Otherwise, looking for ideas on how to sniff out a good one. [more inside]
Late night urgent reader’s advisory
I can’t think of any novels about trans people that aren’t about transitioning. I’d like to read a novel about a trans protagonist with a different central drama, even if it’s not very good. I’d settle for a novella or a short story. Are there any?
Leave reasonably okay company for freelancing?
In a nutshell: a) do I have good reasons for wanting to leave my job and switch to freelancing, and b) if I do this, how do I best maintain good personal and professional relationships with the people/organization I work for now? Details at length below the fold. Sorry for the wall of text. [more inside]
posted by huimangm at 7:48 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by huimangm at 7:48 PM PST - 7 comments
Using probit regressions coefficients to derive probabilities?
I'm reading a paper (here) that uses a Probit Regression. I'm not entirely familiar with how this works. But, I'm wondering if there's a way to use the coefficients from Table 3 to derive the probabilities indicated in Tables 4, 5 and 6. And, if so, how I would do that?
posted by Proginoskes at 7:29 PM PST - 1 comment
posted by Proginoskes at 7:29 PM PST - 1 comment
How to use QOS to prioritize traffic to certain devices on home network
There are a lot of devices on my home network. I want to get the best possible internet to 3 PCs (either by MAC address or by static IP) and leave the other devices to get whatever bandwidth is left over. I'm having trouble understanding QOS in general and the router documentation isn't helping me much. [more inside]
School lunch hacks, for older kids
For those of you who make your older kid pack their own school lunch, what tips/tricks do you use to get them to actually pack a decent lunch? My kid would prefer to deal with it by not even bringing a lunch, but that's not allowed, given our circumstances. Help me help him. [more inside]
posted by BlahLaLa at 2:40 PM PST - 33 comments
posted by BlahLaLa at 2:40 PM PST - 33 comments
media zooming in on the natural world
what are some interesting films or books (or other media) about tiny worlds? for instance someone living in an atom or leaf. it could also be non-fiction for instance a documentary zooming around inside some molecules. [more inside]
Looking for a news reference
The Institute for Global Labour and Human Rights is based in Pittsburgh, PA. It seems to have shut down, though I can find no active link to anything about it currently. It's last FB post was February 2017. Will someone find an active link that gives an update of its status?
Forget Flying Cars - What is the State of the Art in Boob-holding Tech?
It seems to me that Bras have evolved relatively little since their introduction. What are some different or unusual and especially, innovative, bras to try? [more inside]
posted by ZeroDivides at 1:43 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by ZeroDivides at 1:43 PM PST - 10 comments
Alternative to Aveda liquid pomade
I like the light feel and hold of Aveda's liquid pomade, but I don't care for the fragrance (it contains patchouli). Looking for an alternative with similar properties—basically, a men's hair styling product that's on the lighter side. Thanks for any ideas!
Tools and strategies for brainstorming a 2-year plan and 5-year plan
[Self Improvement \ ADHD Filters] I recently realized how much it has helped me to have weekly and monthly plans for short-term goal setting. I’d now like to expand this and create 2-year/5-year/X-year plans, respectively. What are the best methods and tools for brainstorming and planning long term life plans and goals? [more inside]
Help me find beautiful depictions of windows
A friend's new workspace has no windows. I'd like to get her a beautiful print depicting a window. Budget $50, so a small poster or something like that. But everything I find online is cheesy, like a generic tropical vista with a window frame around it. That's not her taste at all. I'm hoping for something that stands on its own as beautiful or interesting art, but happens to depict a window. Artistic hivemind, can you help?
posted by Ausamor at 12:56 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by Ausamor at 12:56 PM PST - 14 comments
You are my ultimate Nemesis; too bad we'll never meet.
Looking for films (or heck TV too if the characters put in at least one full season) where the two main opposing characters never meet. [more inside]
Looking for some perspective on expectations from friends
I'm feeling annoyed that my friend isn't willing to give me a ride to an event we were thinking about attending together. Am I being too entitled? [more inside]
posted by bluelight at 11:54 AM PST - 66 comments
posted by bluelight at 11:54 AM PST - 66 comments
Tonight the super trouper lights are gonna find me
I'm trying to track down dresses that are similar (or exact!) to the ones worn by the "Young Dynamos" at the end of Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again (during Super Trouper). Image here. They silky/satin-y white dresses that hit about mid-thigh, have a white tie belt of the same material, and have images of a purple fox (Tanya), blue owl (Donna), and yellow hedgehog (Rosie). It's possible that they are shirts or nightshirts that are being used as dresses. As a bonus, we want the boots, too, but they seem easier to find so I'm mostly looking to find the dresses. Thanks hive mind!
Looking for happy thoughts?
Sometimes I get caught up in a mental loop of catastrophizing or ruminating. What are some positive, powerful thoughts that I can use in situations like this to break the cycle? [more inside]
The storage under the stairs...
How can I maximize the functionality of storage space under stairs? All of the options I see online are to access from the side, but our under-stair storage is via a door that opens into the underbelly of the stairs, if that makes sense. So, you open the door (that's about five feet high) and see a downward-sloping ceiling. The walls and ceiling are finished, and we rent so can't build in any sort of drawers/shelves/etc. Thanks for any suggestions.
posted by stillmoving at 7:40 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by stillmoving at 7:40 AM PST - 12 comments
Broken Bracelet
My wife has a bracelet she got from a art/craft show in Chicago last summer. Unfortunately the clasp broke the other day, so now we're trying to figure out who the vendor was so she can replace it. [more inside]
posted by noneuclidean at 7:05 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by noneuclidean at 7:05 AM PST - 9 comments
How do you practice ownership at work and not let it take over your job?
If I take "ownershop" of my job, I'm supposed to be willing to do whatever I see that needs to get done. What advice do you have about not letting the side tasks take all your time? What should I be communicating to my managers? [more inside]
posted by birchhook at 6:06 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by birchhook at 6:06 AM PST - 12 comments
Digital storage suitable for storing patient details?
I am a health professional who has recently gone paperless in my personal life. I currently keep a paper journal of any potential incidents which may come back to bite me. Any recommendations for a digital solution suitable to store such confidential info? I'm not sure if I can quite trust Evernote for that (or OneNote). Thanks!
Vegetarian Korean in New Malden, Greater London?
New Malden is known for its substantial Korean population and great Korean restaurants. Does anyone have recommendations for Korean restaurants in New Malden that have good options for vegetarians alongside the meat?
posted by rednikki at 1:27 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by rednikki at 1:27 AM PST - 7 comments
August 17
Cooking Mojo
How to you find your cooking mojo when you're completely done with cooking for the present season (but summer in particular), AND YET people keep wanting to be fed? [more inside]
posted by Eyebrows McGee at 10:41 PM PST - 29 comments
posted by Eyebrows McGee at 10:41 PM PST - 29 comments
Help me find a travel/food article about pizza-related food of Italy.
This was an article about regional food of Italy running the gamut from "almost, but not, pizza" to "very distantly related to pizza but if I squint I can see it." [more inside]
posted by Myca at 9:36 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by Myca at 9:36 PM PST - 6 comments
Man plans Yiddish poster; God laughs at formatting
I've been tasked with making a poster with the phrase "דער מענטש טראַכט און גאָט לאַכט" on it. It would hopefully be about three equal sized lines of text, but I have no idea at all where to put line breaks. Could some Yiddish and/or Hebrew speakers help me out?
posted by Tell Me No Lies at 8:09 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by Tell Me No Lies at 8:09 PM PST - 2 comments
Do I take the car to an auto body shop or a mechanic?
My car has been scraped and the side mirror is busted. What kind of professional help do I need? Optional blizzard inside. [more inside]
Vancouver BC, where to stay?
We are 2 adults and a 9 year old. We will be driving to Vancouver. Where should we stay? What should we do?
Help with a puzzling long-term post-nasal drip mystery
For over 2 months I've been battling a persistent post-nasal drip, chest and lung congestion. After visiting a few doctors, I am at a crossroads in understanding what direction to go next. While I understand AskMeFi members cannot offer medical advice per se, I'd be grateful for suggestions or ideas, for example on types of specialists and tests. (Specifics on the situation are inside. I have no insurance and little money, so my decisions on treatment have a major impact financially.) [more inside]
posted by TreeHugger at 3:35 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by TreeHugger at 3:35 PM PST - 13 comments
London vs. San Francisco Tech Industry Job Market and Culture
I'm a San Francisco-based tech startup software engineering manager. Career-wise, the SF area is a good place for me to be. For strictly personal (relationship) reasons, I could be motivated to pursue a move to London. I'm trying to understand what implications that could have for my career trajectory and earnings potential. [more inside]
posted by 4rtemis at 3:07 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by 4rtemis at 3:07 PM PST - 11 comments
Not quite Big & Tall: Lightweight tee shirts, heavy-ish man
I am the lucky (?) owner of a male body caught in the, uh, no man's land between "normal" clothing sizes and "big & tall". Most off-the-rack shirts in your typical clothing store are too snug for me, but all "big & tall" clothes are far too large. I just want comfortable tee shirts for warm weather. [more inside]
Halfway meeting point between Twin Cities and Fargo?
We're going to be visiting some friends in the Twin Cities, and my brother and his family recently moved to Fargo, ND. Is there a good halfway meeting point between Minneapolis and Fargo? [more inside]
posted by Wavelet at 2:07 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by Wavelet at 2:07 PM PST - 5 comments
Why do blood donation centers bother with platelets?
I gave a 2-hour platelet donation today and the whole process seemed inefficient. Why do they bother with this instead of just doing whole blood? [more inside]
posted by Tehhund at 1:44 PM PST - 16 comments
posted by Tehhund at 1:44 PM PST - 16 comments
butter butter butter
How long do you keep covered, non-refrigerated, salted butter? [more inside]
A collar for the surprising adventures of Sir Digby Chicken Caesar!
We've attempted to put two different collars on Digby (enjoying his moment of Reddit fame here). They aren't working! We need collar recs! [more inside]
Car free asphalt cycling paths in Europe
I am looking for car free cycling paths in Europe, that have smooth asphalt. It should be worth traveling to, so minimum length about 50 kilometers. It's okay if the cycling path crosses regular roads every once in a while, or if there is a small portion that is not asphalt, but at least 95% should be great asphalt, no cars.
Two examples of what I'm looking for are the Flaeming-Skate in Germany, near Berlin and the Klarälvsbanan in Sweden, near Karlstad.
Cat-friendly baby gates?
My seven-month old daughter is just about ready to start crawling, and her mother and I now have to deal with something we've been putting off: buying baby gates that are cat-friendly. We'd like to buy baby gates that are cat-friendly, but it's been shockingly hard to find well-reviewed ones. Do you have any suggestions? [more inside]
Need FREE alternative evening news
Can someone help w/ a copycat-of-TV streamcast or YouTube channel? [more inside]
posted by noelpratt2nd at 11:48 AM PST - 19 comments
posted by noelpratt2nd at 11:48 AM PST - 19 comments
Cube Moving?
I'll be moving from the East Coast to the Midwest at the end of the month. I don't have a whole lot of money for moving expenses, but have been considering using a cube moving company. Does anyone have any experience with these, and would you recommend it? My budget is up to $1,000. [more inside]
How To Enjoy The Summer Jams
I'm having a backyard cookout birthday party next weekend. I would love to play some summer jams to enhance the mood. I do not have any kind of sound system speaker situation, I don't have music on my phone. What do I need to get to make this happen? [more inside]
Need more high energy hard rock n roll!!
Please help me think of or discover songs along the lines of the following examples so's I can keep on rocking! [more inside]
posted by wats at 9:28 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by wats at 9:28 AM PST - 14 comments
Offbeat fun for a day in Philadelphia
I asked this question last year about cool and quirky things to do with older teens in NYC for a week. Now we're going to hang out in Philly - but just for a day. I've only been to Philadelphia a handful of times so I'm kind of stumped for ideas. Hence this question! [more inside]
posted by Neely O'Hara at 9:18 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by Neely O'Hara at 9:18 AM PST - 12 comments
Ethical (or at least less actively evil) telecommunications company?
I'm currently picking between AT&T and Spectrum and both seem awful from a multitude of perspectives. Do you have insight on either their labor or their consumer ethics and practices? Not just whether they have crappy customer service, but if they are bilking customers or have shady accounting. I will be reading through what the Communications Workers of America has to say, but would appreciate any info, anecdotes, etc.
Gimme dem beats! I need similar music to Todrick Hall, Dem Beats.
I am completely obsessed with the Todrick Hall song, Dem Beats (see 52 sec). It literally has my booty shaking anytime I listen to it. Give me some suggestions for fun, sexy music with that bpm and I'm yours.
How do I add plugins to Vim — not on Linux or OS X — but on Windows?
I've installed Git, and Curl, and followed every tutorial that I could find, and so far all I have to show for it is a sore butt from three days of googling, "installing Vim plugins on Windows" and similar.
Help!
posted by Chasuk at 8:32 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by Chasuk at 8:32 AM PST - 6 comments
Help me give sound advice on shaving one's legs
My almost 11-year-old has decided that her leg hair is no longer baby-fine, and she wants to start shaving her legs. Help me help her to do this correctly and with no blood, please. [more inside]
Screen doors and the new homeowner
My new condo has a screen door. I hate it, and want it gone. Do I really need a screen door, and are there ones out there I could buy that aren't terrible? [more inside]
posted by backwards compatible at 7:22 AM PST - 17 comments
posted by backwards compatible at 7:22 AM PST - 17 comments
Changing calendar availability on Outlook 2011 for Mac
Hi there! I'm using Outlook 2011 for Mac*. I've set up a couple series of meetings for my team that I only attend based on my availability. I would like the time to appear as busy on everyone else's calendar but free on my own. Is there a way to do this? [more inside]
Making a document harder to distribute
Need to balance my company's ultra-paranoia about their IP against the need to distribute and share documents to a large audience. [more inside]
Help Me Be Sure My Moldy Apartment is Safe
After a month out of town, I came home to a bathroom filled with mold due to a leak from behind the walls. I need help getting my (university) landlord to do the right thing for my four year old child and I. Details below! [more inside]
Am I an incompetent human being
I just almost accidentally started a kitchen fire and I’m wondering how far out of the norm this is. [more inside]
How much does wine tasting cost? Recommendations?
I am travelling to Burgundy in a month. As this is one of the most popular wine regions, I'd like to learn more about wines. My intention is to pay for a wine tasting events in a winery or two. Reading through articles, I've come to a conclusion that those are worth the money. The one I found appropriate is Chateau de Pommard wine tasting. The price is 20 euros for 45 minutes. Is this a good price? I read positive reviews, it seems to be informative and professional, yet casual - which is exactly what I need.
posted by Liliana at 2:01 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by Liliana at 2:01 AM PST - 6 comments
Night fright
Homeowner/landlord of our shared residence leaves front door open at night with the notion that it cools the house down. I'm fucking terrified...details within. [more inside]
posted by a knot unknown at 12:29 AM PST - 32 comments
posted by a knot unknown at 12:29 AM PST - 32 comments
August 16
Another smell question: cat poo edition
The mighty and most beleaguered BunnyCat had to endure an emergency enema today to address a major blockage in her poor colob. This had led to extreme explosive poo and lots of sad. I am doing my best to catch up with her when she leaks/smears/can't help but leave behind a mess, but I am struggling. Please help me try to keep our little apartment mostly poo free. [more inside]
Teach me how to have long, curly hair
So I'm growing my hair out for the first time (I'm a dude). I really like it! I'd like to have long hair for a while! But...I don't really know what to do with it! [more inside]
Disgusting embarrassing insomnia trigger help please
We are fighting an infestation of bugs. I've not seen them in the master bedroom, but they have been in the kitchen, living room, etc, and just now I had one crawl on me in the other bedroom that I use for sleeping until the baby wakes up (he is in the master). I am too disgusted and tense to go back to sleep. [more inside]
posted by crunchy potato at 8:30 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by crunchy potato at 8:30 PM PST - 12 comments
Adventures in the smoky Northwest
My partner and I have been excitedly awaiting this weekend for a weeklong-ish backpacking trip around the Three Sisters Loop in central Oregon...except that we're not so sure about it now due to the smoky air and possible hindered views. We'll take a last minute look tomorrow and decide whether we do the loop or not. We're looking for alternative suggestions for outdoor fun so we don't sit at home moping for a week! Details within... [more inside]
posted by sweetpotato at 7:32 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by sweetpotato at 7:32 PM PST - 7 comments
Context switching when you have a fancy day job
You have a career in Widget Field X. You have earned elite degrees, won national and international awards, achieved some fame, and built a tremendous amount of credibility (and even fame) in Widget Field X.
You also do work in Arts Field Y. You have a few small engagements in this field over several years, but no great achievements (yet). You want to eventually become successful in Arts Field Y. [more inside]
How to set up a video camera in a office?
I need a video camera to view an front office down the hall.
I have a computer at my desk [and a smart phone]. What would be cheapest and easiest way to do this?
The front office is unmonitored and there is a bell that rings when they come in but I still have to get up to go see if it is really a visitor or if it is just another worker coming in and out.
Thanks for any suggestions.
Where to rent an Electric Piano in Oregon
Looking to find an electric piano for rent which can be picked up in Portland or Eugene and brought out to MacKenzie Bridge for a weekend. Not local and having trouble finding leads. [more inside]
Pharmacy Technician +
I'll be starting a pharmacy tech program in the near future, with completion after the first of next year.
My question is this - there are pharmacists and pharmacy technicians ... are there other pharmacy related positions within this continuum? [more inside]
Looking for a iPad Pro app good for tracing photos
I have a iPad Pro and an Apple Pencil and would like an app that allows/enables me to do some basic drawing based on photos I take. [more inside]
Meal train in the DC Area
I have signed up to provide a meal for a family of four in the DC area. [more inside]
Atlanta navigation tips needed
I will be in Atlanta next Thursday for the day. Driving down from NC. My question is, should I pick a MARTA park & ride station on the outskirts or drive all the way in to the convention center? I'll be arriving early afternoon & leaving around 9pm. Last time I was there I flew in & took MARTA train to the GWCC in 2010.
posted by yoga at 12:06 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by yoga at 12:06 PM PST - 7 comments
Microscopes for short people
Help me find a non-standard height table/desk/seating solution for a microscope that will fit into a professional office setting. [more inside]
can I delay a house purchase when I am in escrow
I'm in the process of buying a home in Lake County, California, which is currently on fire. We're supposed to close Monday but no insurance companies will issue policies when there's an active fire in the same zip code. Fire is like 60 something percent contained, may take a month for full containment. Can I delay close of sale? [more inside]
Capitol Hill cafe with a view
I will be visiting Seattle this weekend and want to visit bookshops and cafes. I am still missing the beautiful space that used to be Vivace’s old location overlooking the reservoir. Where else on Capitol Hill can I get coffee with a pleasant view or (if view is not possible) a nice environment to linger and read?
posted by Atrahasis at 11:10 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by Atrahasis at 11:10 AM PST - 12 comments
Practical advice on running an LGBT-friendly class
I'm getting ready to teach my first-ever class (grad-school level) and want it to be a safe zone for my students. Since this wasn't really a thing when I was going through school, I could use some practical advice on achieving that goal. [more inside]
Coworker's pet causing me stress
My coworker has a pet as decoration on their desk in our office that is living in inadequate conditions. It's making it hard for me to concentrate because I feel sorry for it. Is there anything I can do without offending my coworker or making waves? [more inside]
Low nightstand suggestions to match new bed?
I am so happy, I have a new grown-up bed that I love! But now I need to get lower nightstands.
I would like something that matches the style of the bed, with a drawer, and between 14-20". Here are some stock photos of the bed, but instead of the mattress pictured, imagine a thinner futon mattress. I am on a budget but can be convinced to splurge a little. Can you help?
Zinus Ironline Low Profile Platform Bed
Odd puppy bathroom behavior--cause for concern?
Our 11-month-old golden retriever --who has been solidly potty-trained for most of his young life--has now peed once and pooped once in places he shouldn't (and wouldn't normally) go. What's going on? [more inside]
Sideless bookcases: yea or nay?
I'm looking for a bookcase, and many of the ones that I think are stylish have a common trait: they lack anything on the side to prevent books from falling out. Is this a terrible idea? [more inside]
Where to find grants and foundations for a non-profit literary journal?
Are there any specific grants and foundations that offer a reward towards non-profit literary journals and literary magazines in Texas and US in general? (Some are listed as art organizations, but not always).
What are some great comedy music videos?
Yesterday's AskMe about iconic music videos mentioned The Lonely Island's "I'm on a Boat!" which I'd never heard of before. I thought the video was hilarious. What are your favorite comedy music videos?
When and how do busy people exercise?
FT job, 40ish minute commute, married with one kid and a house. And hobbies that are not exercising. [more inside]
Gift for friend who has everything?
What would you get for your friend who hasn't been feeling well, but already has everything she needs/wants? [more inside]
Frustrated ITunes DeeJay Question
Please help me with a minor, but really frustrating, problem with iTunes on my iPad Mini - when I add a new song to an existing playlist, it will not let me re-order the list to put the new song where I want it. Detailed explanation inside. [more inside]
Weather app with dew point forecasts?
Is there a weather app for iOS that provides an hour-by-hour dew point forecasts? [more inside]
Please recommend a good VGA to HDMI adapter
I'm looking to connect a Lenovo ThinkPad T410 to an Insignia LED TV (NS-40D510NA17/NS-40D510MX17). The TV has HDMI ports (along with standard AV inputs), but the laptop only has a VGA port and a headphone jack.
Thanks! [more inside]
Cultural memberships/subscriptions in Seattle for college students?
Looking for a cool, cultural gift for my kid who is moving to Seattle. [more inside]
Foods to eat when you're underslept but need to be alert
Let's say you had insomnia the night before a day at work where you needed to be really alert. You're already caffeinating, but you should really put something in your stomach, but eating usually makes you groggy. What would you eat?
posted by coffee and minarets at 6:38 AM PST - 20 comments
posted by coffee and minarets at 6:38 AM PST - 20 comments
Indie scientific calculators
I need to buy a new scientific calculator (a physical one, not a phone app). I stumbled upon Numworks, which seems great. I now wonder if there are other interesting innovative calculators from smaller companies that I have never heard of. [more inside]
Evaluating Financial Advisers - What tools are publicly available?
I have a friend who's done some investing in stocks and mutual funds and after middling performance returns believes that the best way forward is to use a well-regarded commercial investor, actually this one: Fisher Investments.
I'm skeptical. But I want to respond with as much 'hard' evidence as possible. [more inside]
posted by Reasonably Everything Happens at 6:11 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by Reasonably Everything Happens at 6:11 AM PST - 8 comments
What to do in SF this Saturday?
I'm free from breakfast until but not including dinner. Could you recommend me a couple of places to eat, a newspaper that lists small theatrical productions, and ainteresting grocery store? Also, is it worth walking across the golden gate Bridge if you like walks and fog and scenery but not people? [more inside]
I have no chill
I'm casually seeing a guy. It's fun. How do I keep it fun without overthinking it? [more inside]
Great communication keeping relationship alive past its sell by date?
My girlfriend is an amazing communicator and has taught me a lot. But I'm starting to think our amazing communication has backfired, and I'm also starting to wonder if I'm crazy. Snowflakes inside. [more inside]
My unmarried partner is in default on student loans...
My partner, to whom I am not married and who is not claimed as a dependent on my tax filings, just got sent to collections for some student loans that are in default. What are my legal responsibilities? [more inside]
Reading Lamp that Accepts 100 Watt Incandescent Bulb
I like to read in the evening with an amber light. For various reasons, amber LED light bulbs won't work for me. I need 100 watts of amber to see clearly, and my challenge is that all the desk lamps I've run across specific 60 watt maximum (and I've found out the hard way that they mean what they say).
Would appreciate any tip on a good quality reading light that might work. Thx.
Adulting so good with personal finance
New adult seeking guidance and orientation on how to be responsible with money. What's your favorite book/audiobook/youtube channel/website etc? Also what's your one advice? [more inside]
Broken filling after one week. Do I have to pay to fix it?
A week ago, my new dentist fixed what he said was a damaged, two surface (between teeth) filling. Today, after eating my (soft) lunch, a chunk of filling/tooth came out. Do I have to pay to replace the filling again, or can I convince the dentist to fix it for free, and how would I go about this? [more inside]
August 15
Tile quandries
We bought textured tile (that is in shallow waves, the variation in height from the wall is about 1/2" - so some portions of each tile are 1/2" deeper than others). Now my husband wants to install (drilling in) a wire shampoo caddy. Am I overthinking this? Is this a big deal? [more inside]
Dead simple GUI kit?
Is there a super simple GUI builder that can just spit out links based on user input? [more inside]
posted by ian1977 at 8:19 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by ian1977 at 8:19 PM PST - 9 comments
Pool Sand Filter Woes
The lateral pipes in the sand filter for my inground swimming pool broke; pool has quite a bit of sand on the bottom. I'm just about finished repairing the sand filter but need a trategy for removing the sand in the pool. [more inside]
New Orleans with Kids
My wife and I are taking our three year old and our 6 month old Baby to New Orleans for this weekend. We want to do some activities / tours to see the city.
We are especially interested in short bus/walking tours that are fun & interesting for adults but could keep our 3 year old entertained enough to not drive everyone else crazy. Kid-friendly Foodie and/or ghost tours would be amazing.
There’s several websites that list kid tours but they are hard to differentiate. I’m hoping for some first hand recommendations. Any suggestions or tips on NOLA with kids in general?
What the heck just gnawed through paper AND plastic in a sealed drawer?
I opened up a drawer in the kitchen and found that something had eaten through the plastic wrapper of two paper towel rolls and taken a good chunk out of the paper towels too. The rolls look gnawed, like a mouse would gnaw at a loaf of bread. WTF? (Mysterious details below the fold.) [more inside]
Making .gifv videos shrink to fit my screen
Is there a Google Chrome extension or Chrome-compatible userscript to make .gifv videos shrink down to fit my screen? For comparison, here's what I see when I open a gif as a .gifv and here's the same file opened as a .gif. Note: I don't want to view .gifv videos in full screen. I'm running Chrome 68.0.3440.106 on a Macbook Pro running OSX 10.13.6.
Hypothetical New York City Life/Neighborhood Question No. ######
What does a low-key, queer, non-drinking centric, geeky, single people + family friendly NYC life look like? Hypothetical move day-dream snowflakes within. [more inside]
Digital Asset Management system for a small marketing deparmtnet?
Hello,
I've been tasked with launching a digital asset management system for our company. The scope would be about 8-12 employees across multiple departments working with photos, videos, and Adobe content. [more inside]
Conserving vintage graph paper
I'm interested in buying and displaying drawings made in pen on vintage paper, typically graph paper. How should I handle them to keep them from deteriorating? [more inside]
Getting to the Appalachian Trail from DC
We're hiking a 100-mile section of the Appalachian Trail. We're flying in and out of DC, but our section hike starts way out at Big Meadows in Shenandoah National Park. We're taking the Amtrak from Harper's Ferry to get back to DC, so our return trip is covered. How do we get to our starting point? From Google maps, it looks as though there are buses and trains all through the area. DC-area MeFites, what combo of public transit, ride-share services, and walking/hitching can get us to the trail head?
What are the best options for using real or fake bullets in artwork?
What is the best way to use bullets (real or fake) in a piece of art? I have questions about cost, safety, and feasibility. Location: New York City, New York. [more inside]
Hot-weather clothing for a job interview
I have a job interview with the local arm of a national nonprofit, where I would be working as an editorial assistant. I've been wearing a suit on job interviews, but it's black and lined, and the cut of the jacket doesn't allow a shirt underneath. The weather has been humid, and heat and barometric pressure set off migraines and anxiety. Would wearing a nice neutral-colored blouse and a skirt be acceptable for an interview for this kind of job?
An Instagram Powerballad
What is the song that plays at the end credits of the Viceland show Hollywood Love Story with Paris Hilton? Please identify this song! [more inside]
posted by WeekendJen at 11:07 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by WeekendJen at 11:07 AM PST - 2 comments
Name that council!
I have taken on a year long project as an Americorps VISTA. My goal is to create a food policy council/coalition. What should its name be? More inside. [more inside]
A little bit pregnant?
I just got a positive home pregnancy test. What tests do high-octane fertility clinics do upon a positive pregnancy test to ensure the pregnancy is proceeding? What sort of support do they provide? (TW: mild mention of MC) [more inside]
What does post-conflict resolution look like for you?
I've had a few minor conflicts in the past couple of months with my bf of 2 years -- "minor" meaning someone said something that hurt the other's feelings or did something that unintentionally hurt the other person. Conversations were had; apologies were made. But whether I'm on the doing or receiving end of the conflict, I've been having lingering feelings of unsettledness afterward.
What do you do after a conflict with a loved one to feel like it's truly "over"?
Does this sound like a plumbing issue or a tankless-water-heater issue?
Cold showers and my first tankless-water heater experiences - does this sound like a plumbing issue or a tankless-water-heater issue? So much more inside... [more inside]
Can I make a vacuum chamber with an air compressor?
I've been getting into resin casting and it's a blast but eliminating bubbles is a lot harder than it seems. Vacuum casting is the go-to for a lot of people but dedicated vacuum chambers cost quite a bit of money. I already have a small air compressor. Are there any attachments I can get that would allow me to use that to create a vacuum in a sealed chamber?
Books set in houses on lakes
I would like to read books set in lake houses. Have you read any that are especially good? Genre isn't terribly important; limitations inside. [more inside]
posted by SeedStitch at 9:16 AM PST - 16 comments
posted by SeedStitch at 9:16 AM PST - 16 comments
City and middle of nowhere with a baby
I want to travel with my 6 month old to Seattle, Vancouver, and Vancouver Island (Tolfino). I am overwhelmed with the logistics of traveling with an infant in a city and then also a seemingly more remote place. Help. [more inside]
posted by inevitability at 8:49 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by inevitability at 8:49 AM PST - 15 comments
Interesting, beautiful places to stay near, but outside of Yellowstone?
My folks' 50th wedding anniversary is coming up, and they've expressed an interest in a family trip west, preferably to Yellowstone or nearby. I'm trying to help with this, and need some advice. [more inside]
having some...reservations (ba dum tssh)
I'm traveling to NYC and debating between booking an Airbnb or a regular hotel. Is Airbnb in New York an epic gamble/mistake in light of the "crackdown" on hosts I keep reading about? [more inside]
Looking for successful online therapy
Which online therapy sites have you used and was it successful? I am interested in finding something for a college student with depression and anxiety because moving between home and school has made it too challenging to do traditional therapy. [more inside]
posted by maxg94 at 6:55 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by maxg94 at 6:55 AM PST - 8 comments
Where can I store my luggage in Berlin?
On Saturday I’ll fly from Berlin to Australia with a large suitcase - I need somewhere to store it between approx 9 am and 7pm. I can’t store it at my accommodation and don’t have any friends who can help in Berlin. Do you know of luggage lockers or a luggage storage service in Berlin? Should ideally be accessible by public transport or cheap taxi (from Reinickendorf)
Thank you!!
posted by EatMyHat at 6:39 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by EatMyHat at 6:39 AM PST - 7 comments
Bed bugs (yet again) but in a large, bizarre pattern?
I have suspected bed bugs for awhile; based on the type of bites and patterns. But I just noticed a completely different pattern/series of bites on my rear thigh I have never seen before. [more inside]
Help plan my escape
I want to do some traveling around the world. Do you have tips ? [more inside]
posted by Pogo_Fuzzybutt at 6:26 AM PST - 31 comments
posted by Pogo_Fuzzybutt at 6:26 AM PST - 31 comments
This is trivial
I am part of a trivia team (nominally the captain) and I feel a sad lack in my knowledge of geography (among other things). Despite looking at maps and (children's) atlases and writing country names on preprinted maps, nothing is sticking. Online quizzes don't help because I don't know what country is in between Swaziland and Nigeria. How do I become a geographic hero?
What salary should I be making as a product designer at a startup?
What should my salary be as a Product Designer at a startup with [x] years of experience living in [x] city? [more inside]
Nontraditional student trying to go to school for kinesiology
My boyfriend, age 29, dropped out of high school and got his GED. He has been taking courses at the local community college and is interested in transferring to the local state university's kinesiology program. Questions inside. [more inside]
Who do you hire to help you write a 1-2 hour TED talk?
Let's say I have to give a lecture and my career depends on this, for reals. It has to be not just good enough, but fabulous. Let's say further I may not get much notice on the topic and audience or date. I would like to hire whatever the public-speaking equivalent is of a cross between a ghost-writer, an editor, and a coach. I cannot be visibly hiring such a person (i.e. I can't just post on craigslist or something). How do I find and hire this person? How much might it cost? [more inside]
August 14
T-shirt Quest
Seeking women's soft fitted T-shirts, but I am picky. Details below. [more inside]
How to travel with chronic pain
I am looking at making a major international trip in about two and a half months' time. Despite my best efforts, I am really stressing out about how I will deal with my various chronic pain issues, especially since I know that the trip will be mentally and emotionally taxing as well and I will not have a lot of ability to deal well with pain. What can I do? Blizzards inside. [more inside]
posted by Athanassiel at 7:25 PM PST - 16 comments
posted by Athanassiel at 7:25 PM PST - 16 comments
I’m not ready for my close-up, Mr. DeMille
How do I get through a photoshoot when I don’t like having my photo taken? [more inside]
posted by Champagne Supernova at 6:54 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by Champagne Supernova at 6:54 PM PST - 11 comments
Car rental accident
So I got into a small fender bender with my rental car. I'm scheduled to return it tomorrow. What do I need to know? [more inside]
Shuttle from Portland Airport to Eugene
I will be arriving in Portland, Oregon late at night and I want to take a shuttle to Eugene as soon as I get out. Do I need to book in advance, or can I just get a seat/ticket at the airport?
Chex Mix Up
I just a whole 8.5 oz bag of Chex Mix without noticing. [more inside]
posted by nantucket at 5:46 PM PST - 16 comments
posted by nantucket at 5:46 PM PST - 16 comments
Need advice for studying
Hello MeFites, I'm enrolled in a paralegal program, which puts me back in schools for the first time in over two decades. I'm getting excellent information on the latest brain science for learning, but I'm not sure how to manage two courses. [more inside]
Spokane and Coeur d'Alene: things to do, see, and eat!
O Bender and I will be heading on a trip to Spokane and Heyburn Lake State Park in a few weeks. We are leaving from Olympia on Monday 8/27 hopefully taking the scenic route. We are staying two nights in Spokane then staying at a Cabin at Heyburn SP.
I'd love ideas for route and things to see along the way, things to do (neat hikes, cultural events, shopping, neighborhoods to wander through etc...) & restaurants to eat at while we are in Spokane, d Coeur d'Alene & closer to Heyburn.
Peaceful, Walkable Town a Train Ride from Paris?
I booked inexpensive impulse tickets to Paris for 10 days next May. It turns out we don't really like big city vacations that much. Instead of staying in Paris, I would like to spend our vacation in a smallish European town where we can walk, ride bikes, go to the same cafe every morning for breakfast, look at beautiful things/scenery, etc. What small town/home base within a day's train ride of Paris do you recommend? [more inside]
Potentially adding a second dog - but what kind?
In a few months I'd like to get a second dog, but my current dog is rather finicky. Trying to think this through. [more inside]
Nac Mac Feegle Playlist
I read the Wee Free Men for the first time, and I‘m delighted! Now I want a soundtrack to go with the wee scunners. What songs remind you of the Feegles? [more inside]
Set Your Alarm
What can parents do to better prepare a highschool senior for college? [more inside]
books about historical women
looking for well-written, compelling books about historical women [more inside]
How on earth do I make a slick slide deck?
I got a freelance gig with a very prestigious consultancy, and will need to give a presentation with an approx. 20-slide deck. This is embarrassing, but somehow I've gotten through life with having used PowerPoint exactly once in the most elemental way. I don't know how to make the most out of PowerPoint or Keynote- I would say I barely even have basic proficiency- and I have no sense of how to really put together a dynamo presentation (this is a design consultancy, so they'll be used to really slick visuals). [more inside]
My HP printer doesn't stay connected to the network and I need help
I have an HP Deskjet 3050A J611 All-in-One series printer and a HP TouchSmart 610 PC connected over my Xfinity wireless router. They communicate OK for a day or 2 or 3 and then the connection gets dropped. Then when I try to print something I get an "Unable to Communicate with Printer" error. I have tried HP Scan Doctor and other HP webware products and nothing helps. [more inside]
Step 1. Make friends with someone who has a walk-in freezer.
I am looking for ways to handle a roach infestation on a new-to-us couch that don't involve treating with pyrethrins (because we've tried that already and it definitely didn't work).
Am willing to accept "give up on the couch, nothing you can do to it would be guaranteed successful, and the longer you have it near your house the more likely your roach problem will become permanent so you should take it to the landfill yesterday," if that's really the best thing to do. [more inside]
posted by Spathe Cadet at 7:57 AM PST - 27 comments
posted by Spathe Cadet at 7:57 AM PST - 27 comments
What splitter cable for Apple earbuds AND speakers into a MacBook?
I have a Macbook. For Skype I use Apple earbuds. For music I have speakers with a normal 3.5mm jack.
I'd like a splitter cable that lets me plug both the speakers AND the earbuds into the MacBook's headphone/mic socket at once, so I'm not forever swapping them.
What splitter do I need? Most seem to split the cable into separate mic + phones.
posted by dowcrag at 7:51 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by dowcrag at 7:51 AM PST - 6 comments
Why does my kitchen smell bad?
A week ago I moved into a new apartment within a very old house. The kitchen always smells bad. I've tried all the likely fixes (details inside)but no luck. Any ideas for troubleshooting/fixing? [more inside]
which flag pole do i buy for this flag
so i'm looking to buy a flag to wave around during a pride parade here - my question then, is, what flag pole or whatever do i buy for this thing, so i can comfortably wave it around during the parade? i'm in canada, and stuff i can get from amazon.ca is preferred.
posted by and they trembled before her fury at 7:28 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by and they trembled before her fury at 7:28 AM PST - 7 comments
Cooked Mandrake Plant - What Would Happen Chemically?
Due to a mistaken ID of the plant, someone sauteed an entire mandrake plant (
Mandragora autumnalis) with garlic and oil and consumed - landing them in the ER. They survived. Now there are questions - for example - would the heat, oil and garlic alter or lessen the alkaloids and thereby the over-all effect on that person? Are there any studies done on heating the plant and ingesting?
posted by watercarrier at 7:07 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by watercarrier at 7:07 AM PST - 11 comments
What to do about small painful lump near finger joint?
I've got a small painful lump at the base of my finger. The doctor says it's a nodule and recommends no treatment for now, but it's bothering me. Why have I got this, is there anything else it could be, and is there anything I can do about it? [more inside]
posted by chrismear at 6:38 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by chrismear at 6:38 AM PST - 12 comments
Short, non-wiggy wigs
Can you recommend some wig vendors with inexpensive pixie haircut wigs that are either human hair or look natural? [more inside]
We're getting an Open Office...how to make it not be awful.
The bad news, we're getting an open office where some (but not all) people will be flex.
The good news, we're being asked for input on how to set it up.
What input should we give to make sure it's not awful? [more inside]
posted by Spumante at 6:15 AM PST - 37 comments
posted by Spumante at 6:15 AM PST - 37 comments
What is burying dead earthworms?
So it has been really really hot here for the past month or so, which caused tons of earth worms to come to the surface and then die. Recently I have noticed that many of the worm corpses are becoming half buried in little mounds. Well maybe buried is the wrong word. Little mounds of stuff surround the worm corpses like a wall. What is causing this? [more inside]
posted by Literaryhero at 1:39 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by Literaryhero at 1:39 AM PST - 7 comments
Give me your loud, righteous, angry and pissed off music
All the owners of apartments in the block I live in are about to be up for a lot of money due to the fault of others. Music is my stress relief but there are only so many times I can listen to Killing In the Name or the song I won't name from Aenima. I have a broad library of music, apparently it's a little shallow in this area. Hook me up, tinnitus be damned. I listen to any and every genre and have a good sound system that'll do justice to anything at 100db.
Trouble getting sound over Bluetooth from phone to car
My new phone is a Sony XZ2 Compact. My car stereo is a Pioneer DEH-X7800DAB. My previous phone, a Sony Xperia Z3 Compact, connected and played music flawlessly. My new phone does not. It does connect, and the track names etc show up in the stereo's display, but I don't get any audio. The phone does however work as expected with my other car, a Renault Zoe with the factory integrated Bose stereo. I've tried restarting the phone, but I don't know what else to try. Any ideas?
posted by Harald74 at 12:13 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by Harald74 at 12:13 AM PST - 7 comments
August 13
Corporate Overlords and Signing Contracts
Fellow corporate stooges at large companies: How burdensome is the review process for minor purchase agreements? [more inside]
What are the definitive music videos of the last 10-ish years?
I feel like the music video had a high point in the '90s and then I stopped paying attention. Please recommend me 2 or 3 videos from the last while that are must-see, be it for artistry, originality, infamy, whatever. Context would be appreciated. I have seen This Is America.
posted by cult_url_bias at 9:56 PM PST - 59 comments
posted by cult_url_bias at 9:56 PM PST - 59 comments
I AM VERY ANGRY
My city is experiencing a bus service meltdown that appears to have been totally avoidable. I learned about it through a local daily free paper and a local blog, but the city's paper of record has not seen fit to cover the story. I'm pisssssssssed and would like to let the world know about it. Should I write to the paper asking them to cover it OR should I submit a letter to the editor? [more inside]
posted by sunset in snow country at 9:31 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by sunset in snow country at 9:31 PM PST - 8 comments
Electric toothbrush head replacements, cost vs benefit
We have Philips Sonicare toothbrushes and we need new brush heads. Branded heads are expensive, but it sounds like unbranded heads are often soft. What's a good balance between cost and benefit? [more inside]
posted by filthy light thief at 9:27 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by filthy light thief at 9:27 PM PST - 11 comments
Coping with Dementia from Long Distance
My grandma is nearing 90, and increasingly suffering from symptoms of dementia and trouble hearing, along with generally frail health. I'm ~7000 miles away but still struggling with this. How do folks cope? [more inside]
How can I manage the drowsiness from motion sickness medication?
Assume that I am going to take motion sickness medication.
Assume that this medication makes me drowsy.
How can I limit or manage this drowsiness? [more inside]
posted by heybearica at 8:41 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by heybearica at 8:41 PM PST - 8 comments
The crème de la crème of bungee cords? (Or creative travel accessory)
I need some bungee cords for general travel use, attaching packages and extra bags to my main rolling bag, on an impromptu basis. All bungee cords are not created equal! This is one of those types of things where it's a commodity product, but there are definite winners and losers. And then, maybe there's a neat indie product or creative solution out there that's even a tad innovative? 15-30" is probably the range I'm interested in.
posted by Jack Karaoke at 7:54 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by Jack Karaoke at 7:54 PM PST - 11 comments
Shiny happy people
Can you help me remember the title of a YA novel that has a character in it who may or may not be imaginary who only speaks in song quotes? He quotes CSNY's line "we are stardust / we are golden / we are billion year old carbon" and I think something from REM's Shiny Happy People. [more inside]
posted by sockermom at 7:20 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by sockermom at 7:20 PM PST - 14 comments
Making a magic trick work online/as a Twine game
There is a particular style of magic trick that involves the audience member making choices that eventually lead to a very specific choice, such as a specific playing card, and it turns out the magician has predicted this all along. I'd like to convert this into a CYOA/Twine-esque game, but there's a couple of tricky programming ideas I'd like input on. MAGIC SPOILERS INSIDE. [more inside]
Beyond hamburger helper
I am on maternity leave with a 7 week old and by the time dinner rolls around I am spent. But tonight I became an alchemist and mixed a packet of harissa skillet sauce by Saffron road with ground turkey. OMG it was so easy and delicious. I want to rely more on the formula of ground turkey + sauce packet. I am far from inexperienced with prepared foods but I haven’t ever cooked with those packets before. Do you have any specific recommendations?
posted by pintapicasso at 6:40 PM PST - 16 comments
posted by pintapicasso at 6:40 PM PST - 16 comments
Looking for petite size jumpsuit for wedding
Difficulty: burgundy. [more inside]
A giant reached down and flipped over my bed...
...and I guess this is what vertigo feels like when you're sleeping? YANMD, but has this happened to you, and then what? [more inside]
Best smartphone to use w/ a cell signal booster in order 2 get Internet?
We live way out in the country and we bought a cell phone signal booster which is giving us 3 bars on a flip-phone (before we were getting 1 bar) but now we want to see if we can get Internet on a smartphone but have been told it varies from one phone to another. Any suggestions? [more inside]
Nexus 6p won't make phone calls downstairs anymore
It's weird. [more inside]
What do I need to run Roblox Studio?
carter jr. likes Roblox, and wants to experiment with Roblox Studio (the developer tool). However I am having a difficult time trying to figure out what the Studio will run on. Mac and PC, obviously (?), but anything else? We have some Kindle Fires and a Chromebook lying around for his use. Thank you! [more inside]
posted by carter at 3:40 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by carter at 3:40 PM PST - 2 comments
Outdoorsy, Portland OR, next week!
I have to be in Portland, OR on Monday August 20 and have a place for my 9 year old and I to stay. But I want to do *something* on Tuesday, maybe stay somewhere Tuesday night, and return to Seattle on Wednesday. Suggestions? [more inside]
Anyone nose a good source for nose rings?
How to Psyche up for a Long-Shot Job Interview
I was here earlier bemoaning my mindless "technical writing" job that is actually just assembly-line-style copyediting; now I have an interview invitation to an actual technical writing position and I'm feeling pretty defeatist about my ability to convince them that I'm qualified to do a job I currently hold in title only. [more inside]
posted by space snail at 2:17 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by space snail at 2:17 PM PST - 11 comments
weird pre-walk dog behavior!
Why does my dog, who loves walks, always act so nervous during the buildup to a walk? [more inside]
posted by cakelite at 2:01 PM PST - 16 comments
posted by cakelite at 2:01 PM PST - 16 comments
Help help help -- Can a J1 visa holder travel out of US w/o a DS-2019?
Bit of an emergency here. Can someone holding a J1 visa in the US (academic fellow) legally travel out of the US (and then come back in) without a travel validation signature on his DS-2019 form? [more inside]
posted by miss_kitty_fantastico at 1:48 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by miss_kitty_fantastico at 1:48 PM PST - 6 comments
Tell me of your knowledge management systems!
Hello AskMe! Are you a fiendishly organized person who applies the same level of intensity to organizing IDEAS? Tell me your tips and tricks! [more inside]
posted by capricorn at 1:31 PM PST - 19 comments
posted by capricorn at 1:31 PM PST - 19 comments
Divorce Jurisdiction: Where to file?
If you were married in one country, but live in another, and have multiple citizenships, where do you file for divorce? [more inside]
Battery life of newish smartphones/phablets?
My 2013 iPhone 5s is finally sputtering to its demise. I'd like to get a new phone that can use GPS (Google Maps) and stream podcasts and music all day long without running out of juice. What to get? [more inside]
Should I foster cats with a FHV-1 carrier resident cat?
My lovely 8-year-old cat, who was originally a rescue, has periodic FHV-1 (feline herpes) outbreaks so is definitely a carrier. I'm thinking about fostering another cat, but wondering how her FHV might affect that. [more inside]
Best inexpensive office chair for a fidgeter?
I've been given a budget of $200 to choose my own office chair and am looking for specific chair recommendations or advice on how to search for what I want. I tend to sit upright or lean forward. I also fidget and shift position a lot, so I appreciate chairs that don't get in my way or force me into one posture. Additional specs inside. [more inside]
Can't change a Canadian prepaid car rental reservation from Hertz
I made a reservation to rent a car in Halifax, Nova Scotia for August 24-26 from the Hertz website. I want to change the drop off date to August 25, time and location remain the same. [more inside]
Where to get basic but high-quality sun hat in Chicago?
I want to get a basic sun hat from a store in Chicago, straw or woven paper, and maybe stick a flower or ribbon on it to give as a gift. [more inside]
What are the best left-wing email newsletters?
I am quitting social media, but I need a substitute for all the useful political links it provides me. What are some left-leaning email newsletters that can fill this void? [more inside]
What would you do if you knew your friend was having an affair?
What should I do if I know my best friend (A) is having some sort of affair on her husband (B) with another married man (C). C's wife (D) is one of A's really good friends, and they all still hang out often knowing something is happening. I tried to look past it and ignore it, but B would come to me with concerns or his anger if C would show up somewhere, and because I am good friends with both A and B, it makes me sad to see someone else hurting. [more inside]
posted by MamaBee223 at 11:38 AM PST - 24 comments
posted by MamaBee223 at 11:38 AM PST - 24 comments
Funding community college
Friend wants to go to college, but has very little money. How to find scholarships/grants/financial support for community college in Miami, FL? [more inside]
Best way to share links with friends?
Some friends and I share a lot of links/reading recommendations with each other. Currently we do this in a group messaging thread, but it's non-ideal in a lot of ways. Mostly because 1) other conversation gets clogged/disjointed by the intrusion of links, 2) a link can quickly get buried if it's shared and then something else is discussed, and 3) it is very tedious/sometimes impossible to go back and find links that have been shared a long time ago. What's the best way to do this outside of our text thread? [more inside]
Radio Alarm Clock Request
I want a radio alarm clock. This is proving difficult to procure. [more inside]
A sideways kind of love
I'd like to make a sweet + fun Spotify playlist for my gem of a partner, but my knowledge of good songs for this is very scant. Said partner is extremely warm, kind, and sentimental, but expresses it in very sideways or wry/humorous ways - a direct eye contact + I LOVE YOU SO MUCH is just not their style! [more inside]
One weird hack to rule them all
Did you struggle for years with a particular problem, only to suddenly find a solution that made the problem essentially go away? Tell me about it! [more inside]
posted by peacheater at 9:37 AM PST - 35 comments
posted by peacheater at 9:37 AM PST - 35 comments
Help an anxious dater
How would a non-anxious person react/how can I react to this dating scenario? [more inside]
posted by bearette at 9:33 AM PST - 17 comments
posted by bearette at 9:33 AM PST - 17 comments
tell us your tales of finding each other again
Mr. marlys and I (writing together here) have been together for 15+ years, and we are going through a rough patch in our marriage. [more inside]
Looking for the 21st Century Version of Berlitz Language Tapes
The problem with apps like Babbel and Duolingo is that the vocab isn't really focused on practical travel phrases or vocabulary. I'm not looking to become proficient in French, just trying to be a better tourist. Unfortunately, the Berlitz app is really bad. [more inside]
posted by forkisbetter at 8:54 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by forkisbetter at 8:54 AM PST - 9 comments
How can I find and become involved in Fukuoka's punk/DIY scene?
My wife and I are moving to Fukuoka, Japan from Chicago, by way of Baltimore. For 15ish years I've been heavily involved in the DIY/punk/art communities in the US, particularly in Chicago where the scene is substantial and vibrant. Recently I met some musicians from Tokyo who told me that Fukuoka has a "big punk scene" though I have had trouble finding evidence of this when I've been in town. Do you have any insight into entering the Fukuoka punk community? Or that of any Japanese major city? THANK YOU!!
Help me work toward a job I have no experience in
I want to work in marketing at my company one day but I have no experience in marketing. What can I do in my own time to change that and eventually be a more desirable candidate? [more inside]
Help me find a similar vase please!
I want to buy this vase. However, I do not want to spend $322. Any knockoffs or similar that I should know about? Searching for branch or twig vase gets me vases for branches and twigs.
What are your rituals related to self-care or introspection?
I’d like to add more structure to my life and I’m looking for ideas for little rituals or small structured practices I can start doing.
Specifically I am looking for rituals related to introspection, self-care, mental health, stress reduction, relationships and new experiences. So: tell me your rituals, routines, habits and practices related to those things. [more inside]
How do we keep from crashing into the apartment below?
My spouse and I are powerlifters, with a home gym set-up. We've just moved to a new flat, a third-floor walkup with hardwood floors. We'd taken steps to be considerate and reduce noise, but while doing block deadlifts for our first workout session here, we found an unexpected problem -- at a fairly low weight (75 kg), the floors started physically shaking like we were in a bouncy castle. Since we don't want to fall through into the flat below, we're talking through our options and were hoping to get some advice. More inside. [more inside]
Going back to rejected offer
A few months ago, I was trying to pick between two job offers and ended up picking a company that has turned out to be a bad fit. Can I go back to the job I rejected and ask if they would still be willing to take me? How bad would quitting so quickly look? [more inside]
Boyfriend practices semen retention. It sucks. What can I do?
My boyfriend abstains from ejaculation during sex and sexual activities. It makes me feel tremendously frustrated, sad, and turned-off. I have no clue how to even begin to unpack why I feel this way, or how to navigate the inevitable discussion I'll need to have about it with him. [more inside]
What's causing this itching in my bed?
I'm constantly itchy when I'm in my bed. It starts almost as soon as I get in bed and ends when I get out of bed. I can't sleep at night at all due to the constant itching. I have no visible bug bites/red marks/rashes, and my husband doesn't itch at all when he's in the same bed. The same detergent is used for the linens on the bed and for my clothes, and I don't itch during the day. What could be the cause?
Bellingham, WA recs: dining and hiking
My husband is spending an extra bunch of days in Bellingham this week before a wedding on the weekend. Where should he eat and hike? [more inside]
August 12
Best Outdoor Lights Without Electrical Outlet
We recently had a pergola built in the backyard. It is awesome. Now it needs some lights. I've already put up a long string of solar powered lights (string lights) but my better half would like something that puts off some light and doesn't just look pretty. [more inside]
posted by fieldtrip at 11:59 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by fieldtrip at 11:59 PM PST - 9 comments
Kids visiting rehab
My ex husband is in an inpatient facility to treat his problem with alcohol. What (if any) arrangements do I make to have our daughter visit? [more inside]
posted by shock muppet at 11:23 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by shock muppet at 11:23 PM PST - 14 comments
Help me understand the fin de 60s
As I've covered in past posts and Asks, I have something of a fascination with the late 60s as it lurched forward and became the bleak early 70s. [more inside]
What to gift myself
I'm trying to choose between a Nintendo Switch, modest gaming PC, or to focus on other hobbies and would appreciate someone else's perspective. [more inside]
Fastest way to add Title/Comments to JPEG?
On Windows, I can use the File Manager to type in Title and Description text for my JPG photos. But it takes a large number of mouse-clicks. What's a good app/program that'll allow me to type in the text the quickest?
posted by storybored at 7:19 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by storybored at 7:19 PM PST - 9 comments
Dating on the Other Side of the Train Tracks
I've found myself seeing someone who I get along with insanely well and am quite fond of, but it turns out their lifestyle and experiences are vastly, VASTLY different from mine when it comes to drug use and sexual norms and other things that I've always considered to be risky. Help me figure out how (if?) I should proceed. [more inside]
posted by Malleable at 7:16 PM PST - 21 comments
posted by Malleable at 7:16 PM PST - 21 comments
Best way to store vegetables in the fridge?
I've been harvesting a lot from my garden, and I've been putting most things into plastic bags I've gotten from the grocery store or greenmarket. Using plastic is sort of wasteful, but other bags don't keep the vegetables fresh. So how do you store your vegetables in the fridge without them getting sad? [more inside]
I want to know what my net eBay profits have been this year.
I sell things on eBay, as a hobby. I have a new goal -- clean out my basement and buy myself something nice. I can't tell if I've reached my $$$ goal yet. Help? [more inside]
posted by Wild_Eep at 7:01 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by Wild_Eep at 7:01 PM PST - 3 comments
Teen tattoo: yay or nay?
Should I let my 15-year-old get a tattoo? [more inside]
Plant whose identity seems to be too obscure for me to figure out...
What is the name of this plant and is it edible?
Thanks [more inside]
posted by ptm at 4:25 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by ptm at 4:25 PM PST - 3 comments
Not since Errol Flynn died
What are some examples of jokes that were funny at a certain time, and still funny if you know the context, but are largely meaningless or unusable today? [more inside]
Friday rush, day tickets, etc.
I want to see The Lehman Trilogy in London next week. How good are my chances at Friday rush or day tickets? [more inside]
posted by stoneandstar at 2:30 PM PST - 1 comment
posted by stoneandstar at 2:30 PM PST - 1 comment
Help me replace my favorite sweater that I lost
Shoppers and clothing finders I just lost my favorite sweater that I wear @ 3 times a week. I got it on StitchFix in March 2017 (and I’ve written them). The description is Market & Spruce Belfor Pocket cardigan and here is a picture from someone’s Pinterest. Thanks for any suggests to replace exactly or to something similar
You are not my daughters OBGYN
My daughter will be turning 10 in October. Today it would seem she had her first period. This came as a surprise to us considering she has shown no other signs of hitting puberty. Is this unusual, should we be concerned, and what should we expect moving forward with subsequent doctor's visits? [more inside]
posted by jasondigitized at 12:11 PM PST - 25 comments
posted by jasondigitized at 12:11 PM PST - 25 comments
How do I get my photos under control?
I have 33,000 photos on my laptop. That is too many photos. I need to go through and delete vast amounts of them. Any suggestions about how to do it? [more inside]
Female literary dog names
My family is in the process of adopting two bonded female treeing walker coonhounds, and looking for literary names for them (especially ones that make sense as a pair). Can you provide us with some good suggestions? [more inside]
posted by RyanAdams at 11:27 AM PST - 45 comments
posted by RyanAdams at 11:27 AM PST - 45 comments
How to stop computer music programs from competing for remote
When I have more than one program I've been playing music on, can I choose one as the default? [more inside]
Asking Faith Communities for Homelessness Help When You're Not a Member
I've been homeless for the past six weeks (some details inside). Several people have suggested that I contact local churches/faith communities for help with a place to stay for a while but no one has specifics about how it's done. I'm usually fine on the phone and have contacted all kinds of local resources for help but for some reason this is hugely triggering my anxiety and I can't even bring myself to start. I would really appreciate a script or any other suggestions you have to help me do this. [more inside]
how does insurance work when you're driving someone else's car?
I'm going to be borrowing a car from a relative for a few days while they are out of town. They have ample insurance on it. I have none because I don't own a car. What happens if I hit someone/something or they hit me? Or it's stolen? Is there a way to get insurance for myself for only 4 days? [more inside]
Eiffel, shmeiffel. I seek Kouign-Amann!
My family and I are taking our first trip to Europe next month (specifically, a week each in Amsterdam and Paris). Given my fixation with The Great British Baking Show, my biggest desire is to visit some high quality patisseries. Any local knowledge on this topic would be greatly appreciated.
Too hot, too cold to sleep...
I'm very cold when I go to bed, so I sleep with blankets (and mummify myself). Then I wake up too hot, so I remove the blankets. Then I wake up too cold, so I grab the blankets, etc. How can I get the right temperature and stay there? (It's not my thyoid. This has been going on for years and I've had many thyroid tests.) [more inside]
posted by flibbertigibbet at 9:36 AM PST - 36 comments
posted by flibbertigibbet at 9:36 AM PST - 36 comments
Does it matter where I buy Cheristin for cats?
The vet is telling me to buy Cheristin only through his office, where it's much more expensive than it is online, or from one particular website (Drs. Foster and Smith), which doesn't carry it. Does it matter? [more inside]
posted by MelanieMichelle at 9:20 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by MelanieMichelle at 9:20 AM PST - 6 comments
Garage Door Opener Mystery
Why did my garage door opener open 1 foot in the middle of the night? [more inside]
possible insect nest?
I am cleaning some bookshelf in my old room, and i have just noticed some tubolar mud things grappeled to some book covers, that look like insect nests.
Photolink inside [more inside]
Vehicle import from Japan
I'm seeing these deals for 25 year old vehicles from a company in Japan that specializes in exporting used cars. What could go wrong? [more inside]
Is Kelly Blue Book Instant Cash Option Legit?
Is the Kelly Blue Book Instant Cash Offer some kind of scam? It seems too good to be true. [more inside]
Injury Compounding Social Anxiety.
In a couple hours I am supposed to get on a plane to join my husband at a business conference. I was already pretty anxious about the trip for reasons, and last night I managed to poke myself in the eye with a stick (insert various jokes here). I'm 99% certain my eye is fine, but it looks terrible, all bloody and gross. I'm considering not going on the trip. Details inside. [more inside]
Bar Mitzvah gifts, broke edition
Bar Mitzvah gifts, broke edition: I have a Bar Mitzvah coming up, and I'm flummoxed as to what to get. I am close to his mother- we see each other every few months- but I have barely spent any time with him and really don't know him at all. [more inside]
Movies for headaches (dream edition)
I just had a dream about a movie that was a quiet (that is, without the most annoying of the pythonesque) British or Scandinavian comedy in documentary format without a laughtrack. From 30 years ago or appearing to be. Think along the lines of Look Around You or Fishing with John—though I don’t actually like either of those. Can you recommend anything like this?
Recovering deleted desktop folder in Windows 7?
Realized this morning that sometime yesterday I appear to have deleted a folder that I need from the desktop of a Windows 7 machine. Is there any way to recover this?
Also, is it possible to change folder settings to make them undeletable?
Where did I see these cool planet sphere gifts?
Late last year, researching a possible gift, I saw some very cool planet spheres. [more inside]
posted by zadcat at 7:46 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by zadcat at 7:46 AM PST - 3 comments
I Like Space. My Girlfriend Wants To Be Attached At The Hip. Suggestions
I like to have some alone time as well as some physical space. My girlfriend is very (admittedly) clingy. How can we resolve this?
Details inside.... [more inside]
Cheap vanilla extract substitute for baking and cooking?
I love the taste of real (not synthetic) vanilla but prices have gone up so much I'm wondering how to flavor things without natural vanilla extract. [more inside]
posted by whitelotus at 5:55 AM PST - 24 comments
posted by whitelotus at 5:55 AM PST - 24 comments
What is there likely to be 15 to 50 of within thirty miles of me?
Looking for a project in which I can visit all of the things in a category. For instance, all the libraries in my local area. I'd like to find out a bit about them, take pictures, maybe review them in some way. So far I can only think of libraries (fine, but would like some other ideas) and listed buildings, churches, and blue plaques, of all of which there are too many to make it practicable in the sort of timescale I'm thinking of (around a year). [more inside]
posted by paduasoy at 5:20 AM PST - 28 comments
posted by paduasoy at 5:20 AM PST - 28 comments
Teach me to gift
I want to learn to give small, casual gift to friends. Specifically I have a new friend who's love language appears to be gift. He gives me old books he's read, small sweets, etc. I have never learned to do this. Please advise. [more inside]
Help me design my English syllabus.
Teaching a comparative essay to year 10 (so about 15 yo) students in Australia. We have Gatsby and we'd like to keep it. We had Citizen Kane but the pairing is a little too much for the time we have to teach it, and the task.
Suggestions for alternative films? [more inside]
Gift voucher ideas near Vienna, VA for a housewarming gift
My friend has recently moved to Vienna, VA with his family. Family consists of my friend, their spouse and two kids aged three and six.
I'd like to send a gift voucher as a housewarming gift. Difficulty: must be available online (maybe GiftRocket?)
They are all set for household goods etc, so looking for fun local activities or restaurants they might enjoy as a family.
I don't know the area at all so have no good ideas - can you help?
posted by Tapioca at 2:56 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by Tapioca at 2:56 AM PST - 5 comments
Activities for kid + baby?
What are some games or activities that would entertain/interest/keep occupied/not bore to death both a 5-year-old and a 1/2-year-old? [more inside]
posted by gakiko at 1:59 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by gakiko at 1:59 AM PST - 7 comments
August 11
pain pain go away
I have been walking around with a stabbing, terrible pain in my lower right abdomen/groin for over a month. It has gotten much worse over the past week. No one knows what it is. [more inside]
Looking for a smart phone with a good camera, long term support
After 6 years I'm finally looking for a new smart phone. I'm really not interested in getting a new phone every couple of years but I'm well aware that's where most products are aimed. Are there any mainstream manufacturers that are guaranteeing long term support for their phones, or at least making things easy for open source or community development? Searching is resulting in a lot of irrelevant results and nothing clear emerging. [more inside]
Articles refuting CBT/REBT and their derivatives
I'm looking for articles that argue against the use of CBT/REBT and all of their derivatives (DBT, ACT, etc) in psychology. I would specifically like articles that talk about the victim-blaming inherent in these methods. Bonus points for links to psychologists who oppose using them.
I already know about Do I need to rethink my feelings about DBT?
Thanks!
Ultra-lightweight luggage for international travel
I'm looking for an ultralightweight suitcase (or duffle? Or ?) that will fit in an international overhead and be as lightweight as possible. I feel like I've seen rolling bags that are essentially wheels attached to a nylon sack that look incredibly lightweight. Also, open to no wheels suggestions.
80 Days of Venturesome steampunk, novel edition
I was recently introduced to the delightful 80 Days, an iOs game I'd link to if I weren't on mobile. It has unexpected steampunk vibes. I'd love more like it. Needless to say, I will read the original. [more inside]
Neighbor working on car till wee hours of night
This was me. The problem with the late night car repair noises continues, after we politely talked to him and asked if he could wrap up by 11:30 pm. Now what? [more inside]
Dance... Even if you have nowhere to do it but your own living room
My friends keep telling me to have more fun / go out more / enjoy my life. How do I get started? [more inside]
foreign tenant went home after vandalizing and stealing property, help?
A friend in the U.S. rented to a member of the Saudi embassy. Two months before the end of his lease, Saudi guy stopped paying rent. Friend tried to get in touch, eventually discovered that Saudi guy had gone back to Saudi Arabia. The apartment is trashed. Repairs will be at least several thousand dollars. Also, friend had some property stored in the attic, of which he estimates that one to two thousand dollars' worth is now missing. Does friend have any recourse? [more inside]
Who knew whiskey was so nice
I’m looking to drink Blantons bourbon in Seattle. Where do I go? I MUST TASTE IT AGAIN I will pay anything [more inside]
posted by zinful at 8:32 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by zinful at 8:32 PM PST - 4 comments
Breaking a lease with a minimum of pain and drama (NYC-filter)
The good news is that I've put in an offer for a co-op apartment, they've accepted my offer and now I am making my way through the mortgage application process.
The bad news . . . well, I'm not sure I would call it bad news so much as a complication, an issue that needs to be worked through, is that I'm still on a lease at my old rental apartment and there are several months remaining on that lease. [more inside]
Going away present for my Tacoma-bound friends
My favorite Millennial couple is moving to Tacoma, Washington. I'd like to send them off with a gift that will help them get acclimated to their new home. [more inside]
The Perfect Moisturizing Face Sunscreen?
My skin is changing, my current face sunscreen ain't cutting it anymore and clinging to dry bits. Ideas? [more inside]
Help me resign
So, I plan on leaving my job and would like to hand in my official resignation letter on the 20th of August. Help me write the most professional letter possible. Some details inside... [more inside]
posted by ninazer0 at 5:14 PM PST - 25 comments
posted by ninazer0 at 5:14 PM PST - 25 comments
Used Refurbished MacBooks - What I need vs. cost
I am on a super tight budget and am looking for a replacement MacBook.
My wants are pretty simple. E-mail, Browsing, Microsoft Office and ability for Qucken software.
With this in mind, what is a good baseline to work from Some sellers on e-bay who are well-received and sell in volume have some pretty good prices for year 2009 onward.
What should I be looking for.
All advice and laptop suggestions appreciated
Hiking pack for 6 year-old?
We’re thinking ahead to a summer ‘19 national parks trip, and we’d love to do a lot of hiking. Our little boy loves to hike but gets tired (like a normal kid) and he’s getting too big to carry very far. All the hiking carriers I’ve seen are for strapping in much younger kids. Is there something like a harness we could wear with a place for him to stand and some handles to make piggyback rides easier? Like, a saddle for humans?
Do I really not need therapy?
I have some stressful stuff going on and I'm feeling stressed out, tired, upset, scared, etc. much of the time. I went to my primary care doc, a therapist, and a psychiatrist/therapist (someone who does both), and they all agree that I'm fine and if I just get regular exercise then I won't feel bad about anything anymore. I'm so frustrated and tired. [more inside]
posted by bleep at 3:41 PM PST - 24 comments
posted by bleep at 3:41 PM PST - 24 comments
What gift cards disallow alcohol & would be useful to college students?
I will be awarding prizes to first-year college students, most of them with financial need, at a college in Oakland, California. A rule of the grant is that we can't give students any card that could be used to buy alcohol. That rules out the two cards that students most requested when asked: Amazon and Target. [more inside]
posted by espertus at 3:35 PM PST - 38 comments
posted by espertus at 3:35 PM PST - 38 comments
What type of digital photo files should I ask for if I can't get RAWs?
We're having a photo session with a local professional photographer that lives in my parents' town (all of their kids live out of town/state). The photographer won't give us the RAWs from the session, which is extremely annoying, but I understand it's common. She also doesn't produce prints, just the digital files. So we need the best digital files we can obtain, even if the best we can get are lossy. Given that she has refused to give us RAWs, what type of digital files should I ask for instead? [more inside]
My elderly mother has no idea how to manage finances, what do we do?
My deceased father used to take care of ALL of their financial matters, aside from a few investments my mom used to have. Since his death, I've realized that she has *no idea* how to manage finances, do her taxes, deal with banks, look after retirement savings, etc. I guess I have to somehow take over and be her representative for these matters, but I have idea how to do this!! [more inside]
Inconsistent Volume Contents After Breaking Errored W7 "Dynamic" Mirror
I had a pair of two 2TB 3.5" SATA drives mirrored through Windows 7's logical volume management (i.e. a "dynamic disk" mirror managed in diskmgmt.msc). After noticing errors on one of the physical disks, I remounted the disks as individual volumes, and the contents are not consistent. Only the errored disk is up-to-date. What gives? [more inside]
Ontario: diversity + lakefront?
What are the most demographically diverse cottage towns in Southern Ontario, located within a couple hours of Toronto? [more inside]
posted by pseudostrabismus at 12:14 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by pseudostrabismus at 12:14 PM PST - 2 comments
please suggest essential articles on gender/feminism/sexuality
I will be teaching an intersectional intro to gender studies class; I'm really looking forward to it, but it's been a while. I have a good required anthology, but my supplementary reading list needs updating. Please recommend what you consider essential articles on gender issues from the last couple of years. (No books please.) Non-US-centric articles particularly welcome. Most students are taking it as a required course and will have little/no background knowledge, so the more accessible the better. Thank you!
Getting from Brussels to London, tourist edition.
I am in Brussels, by Brussels-Luxembourg station, and the Brussels-Midi station is very close by as well. I would like to take a day in London -get there ~lunch time, hang out, maybe have dinner, and come back that same day. [more inside]
turmeric + coconut = 💗
I had a coconut turmeric latté at a local coffee place and now I want coconut and turmeric in all the things. Do you have recipes that you like? And can you help me keep some turmeric milk on hand for iced lattés? [more inside]
Virtual gift card/voucher for someone in London
A friend here in LA is organizing a hat-pass among a group for a former member in London who has suffered a bereavement, but they are uncertain what format is best for making the donation available to them. What are their best options? [more inside]
Framing a late email response
I received a touching-base message from a work connection/ friend and intermittent correspondent. Initially flaked on responding, then got anxious/guilty and flaked some more (for... ok, about 2 months). I'm on a summers-off schedule, and I'd like to take advantage of the renewed start of work to actually get back in touch with this person. How can I frame that email with maximum tact? [more inside]
Looking for a theory about language and perception
I vaguely remember reading a theory about language, storytelling, and writing fundamentally changing the way humans perceive the world, but I have no idea if this is a known and respected theory or just some thing I read on a random blog. Are there any well-known theories like this? [more inside]
posted by Tehhund at 7:26 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by Tehhund at 7:26 AM PST - 12 comments
Help me love my baby LARPer
My five-year-old is VERY good at self-entertaining, but I am inevitably asked several times a day to do some sort of role-playing with him and his toys, and I hate it. It's so boring! Please help me find the fun in being the Bumblebee to his Optimus Prime, or at least help me forget how little fun it is. [more inside]
Converting a textual description to a plan
This is (probably) a question about GIS software. [more inside]
posted by Leon at 6:33 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by Leon at 6:33 AM PST - 9 comments
Samsung Tab 3: Can't enter text
On my Android tablet, I can't enter text in some comment or reply boxes with Chrome. Details inside. [more inside]
Innovating on legacy platforms: a case of google docs and MS word?
I'm guessing within the last 24 months or so I read an article on why it is so difficult for organizations with legacy software platforms to be agile and innovate. The article used Google Docs and MS word as a comparative case study. Know it? [more inside]
Shin pain at night
Within the past week I’ve been waking up with mild to moderate pain in the front of my right leg (but only my right). [more inside]
August 10
Manga for Adult Women
I found The Life-Changing Manga of Tidying Up, by Marie Kondo, at the library today and it was a delightfully fun, relatable read! Please help me find more manga to enjoy. [more inside]
Bone growth + beer = absolutely no, mostly no, or kinda OKish?
My question is in some ways similar to this question from earlier. I'd love to be able to have a drink with friends nightly for about 3 days this coming week. But I'm just under 11 weeks post–ORIF surgery for a bimalleolar ankle fracture and dislocation. I'm definitely still healing and only in the past week able to walk with difficulty and some pain with a single crutch. Can I have a couple beers each night, or does that have the potential to negatively affect bone growth to the point that I shouldn't consider it? [more inside]
posted by limeonaire at 8:08 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by limeonaire at 8:08 PM PST - 6 comments
Help me identify this succulent
Please help me identify this succulent! I'm trying to figure out if it's elongating/drooping in a normal way or a sun-deprived way. It's like a fuzzy jade with long, thin leaves? Some kind of...stemmed echeveria? I got it at the Brooklyn Museum about 2 years ago, but it already had relatively long-ish stems and spaced out leaves then, which makes me think it isn't a more rosette-y or tightly organized plant that's stretching out. In case it's unclear from the photos, it's about 9" tall. Thanks in advance.
posted by unknowncommand at 7:59 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by unknowncommand at 7:59 PM PST - 3 comments
Anniversary Ideas, Broke with New Baby Edition
What are sweetest things that take lots of love but little time or money to prepare? [more inside]
Getting a dr's office to change an insurance code for an office visit?
I have an issue with a doctor's office trying to bill me more than $200 for services I paid for with a co-pay, because the billing manager won't code my office visits as office visits. What can I do to get them to change the insurance code? [more inside]
posted by Jennifer S. at 7:15 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by Jennifer S. at 7:15 PM PST - 8 comments
Ocean wedding readings
Does anyone know of poetry or prose, suitable for a wedding reading, that features the ocean, the sea or the shore?
posted by zamboni at 6:53 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by zamboni at 6:53 PM PST - 11 comments
I want to learn how to tailor my own clothes
Hello MeFites. I have a lot of clothes that are a bit big for me. I'd like to learn how to take things in properly. I'm looking for beginner resources but something more advanced than just being told to sew things up both sides. Can you recommend blogs or youtube channels? [more inside]
How to get a lawyer to act.
I am the personal representative for my aunt who died last December. According to her will, the money left in her estate is to be distributed to three heirs. This is taking place in Oregon where all that's needed is the processing of a small estates affidavit by the court. The small amount of money involved does not require it to go through probate. I contacted a local lawyer in December 2017 who agreed to take care of this. But now the lawyer doesn't respond to my emails or answer my phone calls. I live across country and cannot just drop in to his office. My question is why after almost 8 months, this routine and simple procedure could be taking so long and what can I do to get him to speed things up.
Tooth extraction and bone graft and marijuana
Had two teeth removed and bone grafts put in...can I smoke just a tiny bit of weed? [more inside]
Plan My Vacation?
I have off until August 24. I want to take a 5-day or so vacation to somewhere relaxing (i.e. can get some beachside and/or poolside lounging in most of the days), but which also has arts and cultural stuff to check out, good food, and preferably some kind of LGBT/queer nightlife. I don't mind driving some, but if I'm flying, I'd be leaving from BWI. I'd be leaving for this trip on Thursday night at the earliest. [more inside]
posted by sevenofspades at 4:57 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by sevenofspades at 4:57 PM PST - 12 comments
Northern(ish) California hiking options during current fires/smoke
I'd been sick and cooped up in my urban house for a couple of weeks, and need a change of scenery now that I feel better. I desperately want to go overnight camping and day hiking somewhere within 4-5 hours of the SF area. Where can I go that isn't heavily smoke impacted right now? [more inside]
Hit me with a rom-com in serial form
My gorgeous wife and myself would like to find a romantic comedy series to watch, please help! [more inside]
San Francisco (or Peninsula) Chinese Classes for Adults
What are the best in-person classroom programs for adult Chinese language students in San Francisco and the Peninsula (preferably north of San Mateo)? [more inside]
Waterproof vs. mesh trail runners
Upcoming vacation to Hawaii (YAY) and much hiking is planned. I expect a decent amount of hiking will be in the rain and/or in mud. Best footwear =? [more inside]
Best option to joint post to four social media accounts simultaneously?
I would like to post a photo and short description to a meme account on Twitter, Facebook Page, Tumblr, and Instagram. Is there a great service to do this all at once? IFTTT? Buffer? Hootsuite? Something else? Bonus if it can handle two photos at once. Thanks!
help a guy out
Weed nerds and daily users I need your help. (Wall of Text Warning) [more inside]
the aughts? the naughts? the turn of the century?
What do people call the 00s as a decade, now that they're part of the historical record? [more inside]
Community / workplace civil disobedience.
Help me MeFi legal wonks! What are my actual legal repercussions and exposure if I stage (or simply allow) a sit in to protest the closing of a community center? [more inside]
Small steps, Sparks
I have a terrible habit. When I'm interested in a new hobby, I tend to immediately jump in way over my head which leads to disaster and then I abandon the hobby. Intellectually, I know that I need to start small and work my way up, but I always aim high and fall flat. What are some practical ways in which I can deal with this frustrating aspect of my personality? [more inside]
posted by Elly Vortex at 11:06 AM PST - 18 comments
posted by Elly Vortex at 11:06 AM PST - 18 comments
Help me remember a video game where you explore the world through sound.
I saw a video demo for this but searches keep coming up with "how do I troubleshoot my game?" The game starts with a blank white screen that slowly fills in as you explore the world by interacting with things and following sounds. Possibly a PlayStation exclusive. I know there's one survival-horror game that uses the same mechanic.
posted by GenderNullPointerException at 10:02 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by GenderNullPointerException at 10:02 AM PST - 6 comments
What's your screen time policy with your 5-8 year olds?
How long should kids be playing on ipads/computers/TV? Every outing seems to start with "How long is this going to take? How much time until I can go home and ipad/nintendo switch"? How do you strike a balance? [more inside]
How to make Halloween another fine example of California Gold?
We need to figure out a super California themed Halloween costume for our kid who will be 2-ish. Help! I'm not too crafty but can do some things and we don't have a ton of time to devote to this but are planning ahead to assemble/procure things. Can you help us out? Right now the front runner is Pat Brown. [more inside]
posted by kendrak at 8:56 AM PST - 34 comments
posted by kendrak at 8:56 AM PST - 34 comments
Class in the Church of England
It's my perception that the C of E skews heavily middle/upper class in their average congregation, which seems to be backed up by a number of thinkpieces I've read, but I've had a look and can't find any reliable statistics/studies on this. Can someone point me to some? [more inside]
Help me at the end of my rope
I have this hanging planter, that hangs with a rope through three holes. But it doesn't hang level!
The ropes all thread through a small hole, and there's an end knot at the end of each (see photo here). [more inside]
posted by cacofonie at 8:30 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by cacofonie at 8:30 AM PST - 9 comments
pairs with red
Recommendations for a reliable flashlight
I would like to buy a small or medium-sized flashlight that will work reliably for years. [more inside]
Netherlands - Food, cycling, etc.
We're headed to the Netherlands and would like some recommendations for places to go, places to eat, and bikes to ride. [more inside]
How do I mango pickle?
I love mango pickle and other Indian vegetable pickles, but I HATE picking around pits and other inedible bits. My most recent jar seemed like it was almost half pits that I had to cut the mango off of in and it made quite a glorious mess! Is there a particular style or brand I should look for where there are no pits, large inedible seasonings, or other things to eat around?
posted by LeeLanded at 6:13 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by LeeLanded at 6:13 AM PST - 7 comments
What are the names of the parts that Hanja is composed of?
I've been studying Hanja for only a few days, and I'm trying to learn the jargon from the start. Several of the books and webpages I've consulted mentioned that there are 'parts' other than radicals, but don't give examples, and I'm not familiar enough with radicals — yet — to recognize them 100% of the time.
For instance, the book The Chinese Character Decomposition Guidance says, 'Strokes other than radicals are not shown in the decomposition table.
Can you lead the way...to the answer?
Calling all Rangers or maybe Army folks, hard to say. What are roughs? I need to pack 5 pair and the Navy doesn't use this term. [more inside]
posted by stormygrey at 12:24 AM PST - 2 comments
posted by stormygrey at 12:24 AM PST - 2 comments
Tabletop RPG for two 12-year-olds and one adult?
I'd like to play an RPG next week with my 12-year-old kid and their cousin of similar age, that I would GM for them. The ideal game is simple to set up, yet with enough choices to get them a bit invested in their characters, and something where we can complete a satisfying arc in around 3-4 hours but if it turns out we all love it we can keep a campaign going afterward. Milieu is less important than a fun, easy-ish mechanic; we're none of us hardcore RPG-ers. What games can you recommend?
Best simple tool for tagging quotes and comments
I'm looking for a simple tool that will allow me to create a list of comments with tags, with the speaker and date for each comment. I'd like something similar to an Excel spreadsheet but with the ability to add easily searchable hashtags or keywords for each row. [more inside]
August 9
What’s the toughest iPhone headphones?
I need the toughest most resilient lightning headphones there are. [more inside]
posted by Gilgongo at 11:51 PM PST - 16 comments
posted by Gilgongo at 11:51 PM PST - 16 comments
Help me find this particular baby blanket.
Out of all the dozens of simple cotton receiving blankets we had, my son made this one his "lovey". Now, years later, it's threadbare and disintegrated. I'd love to have another. (note: the white animal-pattern one in the photo; the green one is another layer we added in an attempt to save the lovey).
Does anyone know (a) what this particular one is or where to get it, or (b) the right niche internet community where I should post this question? [more inside]
posted by secretseasons at 6:42 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by secretseasons at 6:42 PM PST - 5 comments
Do I really need studio monitors for making home recordings?
Do I really need studio monitors for making home recordings? Or could I just use high-quality computer speakers? [more inside]
What Can I Do In This Micro-Theatre Space?
I have been put in charge of booking events into a micro-theatre space. Seating capacity of about 50. We already have some theatre productions that use the space, but we want to fill in some of the unused days on the calendar, especially weekdays. Bonus points for events that can repeat monthly... [more inside]
Running Lessons? Is that a thing?
DOT, Jr. came to swimming a little older than his peers. But with some attentive lessons from a local swimming school, he's now solidly average and fully capable in the water. Now he wants to learn to run faster. He wants to know: are there lessons for that? [more inside]
I'd love to help you
Am I bad at being supportive of my partner? [more inside]
Tell me about your favorite travel documentaries!
I'm looking to learn more about any and all countries and their people, through documentaries. In both TV and longform formats (i.e. movies) I'd prefer non-fiction to fiction. Stuff like Bizarre Foods is interesting to me, but I want more depth and length. And less, "ewww weird foreign food"! I've watch Parts Unknown and No Reservations and have liked those too. [more inside]
More basic knock-knock jokes please
The 5-five-year-old has been telling, in various permutations, the interrupting cow knock-knock joke for a couple months. I've been trying to introduce more into their repertoire, with little success -- in part, I suspect, because mine are a little high-level and haven't really clicked as jokes. I think I need simpler examples, especially ones that don't require cultural context. Help? [more inside]
posted by Quasirandom at 3:59 PM PST - 45 comments
posted by Quasirandom at 3:59 PM PST - 45 comments
Hairapy
I have long, thick, wavy hair with lots of potential. Help me style it so that it looks beautiful every day. Something like this or this. [more inside]
What movie should I watch on Netflix streaming TONIGHT
What movie should I watch on Netflix streaming TONIGHT? [more inside]
posted by saladin at 1:52 PM PST - 49 comments
posted by saladin at 1:52 PM PST - 49 comments
Suggest me your best London UK Antique-Bric-a-Brac-Treasure-Junk markets
I'm staying in Mayfair, a tube ride of 30 minutes or so is fine. Would enjoy a wide variety of items to peruse, and some interesting food stalls. So far Spitalfields market is looking good, does it have one day better than others? I have 2 weeks in September, one Saturday is already taken. Thanks!!
posted by antiquated at 1:35 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by antiquated at 1:35 PM PST - 5 comments
Looking for inspiring stories about interchangeable cogs
The Eiffel Tower wouldn't exist without Gustave Eiffel, but it also wouldn't exist without the hundreds of people who build the thing. I want to read inspirational stories about those types of people, the people who maybe weren't so important on their own but were part of building something great or renowned. [more inside]
Ceramics studio programs for the less privileged?
I'm looking for specific examples of programs, in any location, that bring the benefits of ceramics studio practice to a broader group of people than those who might typically afford a $100 - $200 per month hobby. [more inside]
We can rebuild him. We have the technology. Help me PC re-build.
Let's say you have a not-brand-new-but-just-a-few-years-old gaming computer (the provenance is only important in that we didn't build it) that was a generous gift to someone in your household. For a while or so it worked just fine so despite there being no documentation all was good and YAY gift! [more inside]
Help me teach myself partial differential equations
After a long slog, I'm finally one credit short of graduating! I have a math elective left, and the most efficient/affordable way to do this is by earning credit for Calculus IV (a.k.a. PDEs) through a placement exam in about three weeks. But it's been a few years since I've done any math in earnest, and working through the textbook is proving to be a nightmare. Please recommend some resources for self-teaching! [more inside]
posted by amohield at 11:35 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by amohield at 11:35 AM PST - 15 comments
Help me decide whether or not to keep my 2003 Honda Civic LS...
I have an oooold Honda and I'm trying to decide whether or not to keep it and put $ into it for repairs it immediately needs, or is it time to give up the ghost and look for a new (used) ride? [more inside]
posted by clseace at 10:48 AM PST - 17 comments
posted by clseace at 10:48 AM PST - 17 comments
Henry James quote. Bogus or legit?
"Tell a dream, lose a reader" is a popular quote about writing universally attributed to Henry James. Do you know the original source for it? [more inside]
posted by otio at 10:29 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by otio at 10:29 AM PST - 7 comments
London temps in-between
I’m going to be in London from Aug 11 to Aug 26, and I’ve looked up the predicted high and low temperature for those days. I’m wondering what outerwear I should have with me for the evenings. If the high for several days is about 24-25 C and the low is about 15, what should I expect around, say, 8 to 10 p.m? It would be helpful to have either a temperature or advice on what to wear over my daytime clothes.
Millions of peaches
I impulsively bought 50 lbs of peaches from my CSA planning on learning how to can them. I'm still planning on doing that, but I'd like to use them up in other ways as well (other than just eating them straight-up, which I will be doing plenty of). I'm getting nervous about how many peaches 50 lbs actually is, because as I get closer to pick-up time (tonight!) it seems like more and more, and I am regretting this impulse buy. What are your favorite recipes using fresh peaches, preferably a lot of fresh peaches? [more inside]
Looking for podcasts that look in depth at albums, films, books
PodcastFilter: Help me find podcasts that look in depth at individual works of art. [more inside]
SO. MANY. APPLES.
Is there any way to suppress fruit production on a backyard apple tree in an environmentally-friendly manner? [more inside]
posted by googly at 8:31 AM PST - 16 comments
posted by googly at 8:31 AM PST - 16 comments
I don't want to sign up for any newsletter
You know those little popups/notices/overlays on some websites? Usually they ask you if you'd like to sign up for a newsletter, and then you can click "X" or "close" if you don't want to. I want to make them go away forever. [more inside]
posted by danceswithlight at 7:59 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by danceswithlight at 7:59 AM PST - 11 comments
Bubbles and stock market crashes
Looking for theories on how to identify bubbles and imminent stock market crashes [more inside]
Where in South East London should I live?
Which parts of South East London should I look at living in, and which should I avoid? [more inside]
hull-filled pillows: spelt vs buckwheat?
Have you tried both spelt and buckwheat pillows? How different are they? [more inside]
posted by taz at 3:22 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by taz at 3:22 AM PST - 8 comments
who is "American Dams"?
Do you have any information on, or experience with, a new nonprofit called American Dams? It was organized just last year, in Bedford, Va., and its website, which does not come up on a google search, is here. It is listed but not reviewed on Charity Navigator or Guidestar, with no mission statement, no assets, and filing a 990N (financial assets under $50K). Coincidentally or not, it came into being at the same time that a small dam in a nearby town was slated for removal. [more inside]
posted by mmiddle at 2:25 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by mmiddle at 2:25 AM PST - 14 comments
What can I put in my fishtank
I picked up a 28L tank secondhand, planning to put a goldfish in it. Turns out they actually need really big tanks and this is too small. What would be good in an unheated tank of this size?
posted by KateViolet at 12:06 AM PST - 17 comments
posted by KateViolet at 12:06 AM PST - 17 comments
August 8
Why is cancer treatment less aggressive in Canada than US (in this case?
I'm in remission from non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. It seems that the standard chemotherapy regimen for my subtype/stage/etc. of NHL in Canada is significantly shorter than it is in the US. Why is this? [more inside]
Neighbor's weed usage is waking me up due to the smell. Help!
My upstairs neighbor has started smoking weed in their bathroom on a regular basis. This often seems to happen in the middle of the night, and unfortunately it wakes me up and sends me to the bathroom to dry heave, which is the worst place to go because that is where the smell is coming down into on the first place! My fancy air filters don't help and neither does febreeze. What else can I do when I sense the onset? Tonight the smell is so thick I am considering going to my office across town to sleep in peace, so immediately implementable solutions are very welcome.
Pre-MRI, Pre-Diagnosis Anxiety
I'm currently awaiting an MRI to see whether I have spinal inflammation or lesions. I made the mistake of looking at Dr. Google post-appointment and now I'm freaking out. Any personal anecdotes about dealing with type of potential diagnosis and/or anxiety would be extremely welcome. [more inside]
posted by thebots at 11:18 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by thebots at 11:18 PM PST - 7 comments
Refilling the oil in a hydraulic door closer?
The screw marked "BC" on my hydraulic door closer shot out while I was opening the door, and a bunch of oil poured out of the hole before I was able to put the screw back in. Now the mechanism seems to gurgle. How would I go about replenishing the oil in order to fix the gurgling? The whole thing still seems to work, so is it also fine to leave it as-is?
posted by spreadsheetzu at 10:59 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by spreadsheetzu at 10:59 PM PST - 3 comments
Where to download Microsoft Office Pro 2016 without an office account?
I have a legitimate product key for Microsoft Office Professional 2016. I want to be able to reinstall it on my computer (or a new computer if I upgrade). I do not have an office.com account or installation media. [more inside]
posted by ethical_caligula at 9:40 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by ethical_caligula at 9:40 PM PST - 8 comments
What's next after working in mental health?
What are some possible career next steps for someone currently working in mental health, who is looking to get out of the field? [more inside]
Rate my social misstep
I'm worried that I horribly misrepresented myself to new coworkers. How would you interpret this situation? [more inside]
How can I easily read a single Twitter feed on a certain date?
I want to read a 'tweetstorm,' a series of tweets. They are not replies to each other, just a series of tweets by one user (hence the difficulty). I can find a link to the first tweet in the series, so I know the date and time.
Here's the crazy part... [more inside]
posted by panhopticon at 7:41 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by panhopticon at 7:41 PM PST - 6 comments
We want the disco/funk! Give up the disco/funk!
Do you know any lesser known but awesome 1970s disco/funk songs I can add to my Youtube playlist? Pre-1980 please!
posted by pH Indicating Socks at 6:55 PM PST - 34 comments
posted by pH Indicating Socks at 6:55 PM PST - 34 comments
Is there really a drug that gives everyone the same hallucination?
In Tim Powers' "The Stress of Her Regard", there's a mention of a drug that gives everyone the same hallucination. Is there really such a drug? [more inside]
posted by The otter lady at 6:42 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by The otter lady at 6:42 PM PST - 13 comments
Easy home VOIP
Please recommend an easy and affordable home VOIP solution. [more inside]
Cat name orthography
After being called many names (Elvis, Little Mr. Kitty, Li'l Earl Grey, etc) that never stuck, our cat has finally had his permanent name bestowed, a nonsense word that is pronounced like 'Kinky' but with hard Gs in lieu of Ks. Help me spell this name and avoid endless gif/jif misunderstandings! [more inside]
posted by palindromic at 5:10 PM PST - 36 comments
posted by palindromic at 5:10 PM PST - 36 comments
Sci fi novel with murderous houses
Different planet, perfectly manicured self sustaining houses, if you enter them, all the robot vacuums and appliances attack you. The inhabitants think they are houses for Gods, but in fact they were designed for planet’s people, but because of genetic drift the houses don’t think they’re human any more.
Any ideas?
posted by leotrotsky at 4:25 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by leotrotsky at 4:25 PM PST - 5 comments
I lost my naturalization certificate. What to do?
I lost my naturalization certificate. Considering USCIS are pretty moody lately, should I file for a duplicate or should I wait it out until 2020? [more inside]
Yet another job change question - this one should be obvious.
It seems like I post here every once in a while, soliciting opinions and advice about what to do about my job. Every time, I've gotten really solid advice, so here I am again.
Previously, on "should thePlatypus change jobs," I got a good offer to leave the uncertainty of my current position and turned it down, mostly because the prospective employer seemed inflexible, old-fashioned, and generally wouldn't be a pleasant place to work. They were offering more money, and better security than my soon-to-be-acquired current company... this time: [more inside]
I have a hole in the middle of my singing range-
I'm mostly a shower singer, but get great pleasure from singing, and have experienced a problem with my singing voice my whole life. In the middle-high range, my voice cuts out, and I can't produce any of the notes in that range. [more inside]
How to deal with housing uncertainty?
I live in a city where many people rent - those my age who have bought only did so if family money was available. Yet, despite renting throughout my 20s, now I'm 36 I find myself consumed by the uncertainty of it. How do those in high cost cities manage to stay relaxed about it? [more inside]
How do I help my niece get out of a relationship that's turning abusive?
My niece is 21 and has been known to self-cut and engage in otherwise deliberately self-harming behaviour. However she is now getting involved with a guy who is Bad News personified, and despite acknowledging both privately and publicly that the relationship is abusive, she keeps returning to him in apparent efforts to keep harming herself. [more inside]
I'm thinking about Instructional Design as a career. Where do I start?
I've recently graduated (B.S. Business Admin) and have been actively searching out and exploring different career paths. Instructional design has been on my radar and fits with my competencies and interests and I'm wondering what I can do to get my feet wet. [more inside]
posted by dontevengetmestarted at 2:46 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by dontevengetmestarted at 2:46 PM PST - 6 comments
Following Twitter w/o missing updates
I've started using Twitter again (in read-only mode) and have the official Android app. I set up push notifications for some users, but it's a little irritating to use the Android notification system as a Twitter interface.
What's the best way to make sure that you never miss tweets from selected sources, even if your phone is turned off for a day? In a perfect world this perform identically to an RSS reader, but Twitter got rid of RSS feeds and third-party Twitter-to-RSS options haven't been super sustainable in the past. [more inside]
posted by cybertaur1 at 1:11 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by cybertaur1 at 1:11 PM PST - 6 comments
Is it reasonable to build a new driveway on top of an old, eroded one?
We have an old asphalt driveway partially washed out in a flood. Construction company put a layer of milled recycled asphalt on top and compacted it, as a temporary fix while we worked out what was to be done more permanently; they're now proposing to pave over that to finish the job. I'm concerned that the uneven base below the milled layer will be a problem, they're telling me it's fine, the milled layer will be the solid base. Am I overthinking this, or am I right to be concerned? [more inside]
posted by ook at 12:57 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by ook at 12:57 PM PST - 7 comments
Should we buy mom's house/property and build beside her?
Mom owns a house and significant acreage. She's asked if we're interested in buying her out and building on property as well. We want to do this, but want to consider all possibilities/problems. What are we missing? [more inside]
How do I persuade my husband to see his doctor?
How do I persuade my 62 year old scientist husband to see his doctor for recent dizziness and SOB? He is 62 and plays tennis, bikes to work, fomer athlete, no history of any health issues, and last 6 months he gets dizzy spells during tennis, is short of breath. Now dizzy at home and work.
When I suggest doc visit he gets irritable and asks me to leave him alone. I think he's scared and angry at fate. Should I just wait for an ER crisis? [more inside]
posted by evenolderthanshelooks at 12:11 PM PST - 34 comments
posted by evenolderthanshelooks at 12:11 PM PST - 34 comments
Help me find a HIPAA Compliant Alternative to SharePoint
Hello!
I am managing a research study at local health department with many outside partners. I created a SharePoint account, ahead of program launch, and I just learned that I can not use SharePoint with external partners. My budget is $0, which is why I was using the cities infrasturue. What options/altnerative are there? Is there a way to make Dropbox HIPAA compliant? Thank you in advance
Depression, Bad Fit, or Bad Attitude?
I've been recovering after a breakdown that led to me taking meds for the first time for what I now know is Bipolar Depression.
I'm starting to look for work again, and I'm getting the same feelings that I've been getting for a while -- nothing seems to interest me. I'm also studying for the CPA exam since I'd taken an array of accounting courses some years ago, and figured passing the exam would open more doors for me.
The problem is that my heart sinks every time I have to crack open the textbook or scroll through job listings that sound as bland and dry as Wasa crackers. I understand that everyone starts somewhere, and the best jobs are earned. I can't tell whether this aversion is a result of genuine dislike for the jobs described, or whether it's a sign that I'm sliding into the murky mire of depression. [more inside]
Faking day-old rice for fried rice
Fried rice is best made with day-old leftover rice. Ok, sure. But we don't eat rice with most meals, we rarely end up with leftovers when we do, and I don't want to turn fried rice into a recipe I have to start 24 hours ahead of time. Is there a way of cooking rice that gives it (something approximating) the right dried-out texture without a 24-hour wait?
posted by nebulawindphone at 10:48 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by nebulawindphone at 10:48 AM PST - 10 comments
I want to save this webpage to my computer. Help!
I love this animated, step-by-step explanation of how a car engine works. I send a lot of people to it to nerd out. If animagraffs.com goes away, I won't have it anymore. Help me save it locally so I can love and cherish it forever and ever.
posted by tzikeh at 10:41 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by tzikeh at 10:41 AM PST - 7 comments
Driving from Visalia to Los Angeles—anything to see?
Super random last minute question but—I’ll be leaving Visalia in about a half hour to drive to LA. I can’t check in to my hotel until 3 so wondering if anyone knows of anything cool/interesting to stop and see or do on the drive down. Thanks!
How to be a less anxious cat owner?
My partner and I adopted a kitten last year, who has since grown into a lively, healthy, one-year-old bruiser. Despite his excellent temperament and good health, I experience regular, overwhelming anxiety about his well-being and safety, which leads to stress for both my partner and myself. The current heat wave has brought this to a head. How do I settle into confident cat personship? Wall o'text and Cat Tax within! [more inside]
posted by peakes at 8:28 AM PST - 24 comments
posted by peakes at 8:28 AM PST - 24 comments
How can I prep my toddler for a new sibling?
We're about to have Baby #2 in a few weeks, and I'm thinking about how to prep or chat with Baby #1 (who is currently 17 months) about the upcoming changes to our family. I'm not sure how much he'll understand, but would like to help him navigate these changes. Do you have any book (or other) recommendations? We've been told the Daniel Tiger big brother book is pretty helpful, so I plan to get that one. Also any tips on how to navigate the first few weeks with 2 under 2 would be much appreciated. Thank you!
Where can I find casual plus-size skirts that fall BELOW THE KNEE?
My casual skirts are old and have holes in them so I need new ones. I definitely need plus-size skirts and I want skirts that reach at least to below my knees. [more inside]
How to transition from research librarian to public librarian?
Any librarians out there who can weigh in on this? [more inside]
What's with Prague being so grumpy?
I'm living in Prague for a short while. I've quickly noticed that the general public demeanor here is pretty grumpy. People are silent and sour-faced on trams and eye you suspiciously if you're being chatty with friends. Shopkeepers don't seem to like the fact that you've chosen their business. Servicepeople are surly. Etc. This isn't uniformly true, of course, but it's striking, especially given that I'm Canadian and used to the opposite. So, uh, what gives? Is this an arbitrary cultural setting? Is it adaptive in any way I can't figure out? Do people learn to be like this?
posted by insteadofapricots at 6:43 AM PST - 34 comments
posted by insteadofapricots at 6:43 AM PST - 34 comments
Most comfortable women's pants ever
Calling all pants that feel like pajamas! [more inside]
posted by ohsnapdragon at 6:36 AM PST - 17 comments
posted by ohsnapdragon at 6:36 AM PST - 17 comments
Ululation sensation
In this song by Erasure (at 1.06), Andy Bell does something with their voice that reminds me a lot of people singing in Arabic. Echo and The Bunnymen's The Promise has a similar feel. What is this called? Are there other very Western songs that use the same technique?
August 7
Travel-friendly workout routines to GAIN MUSCLE
I'm going to be traveling a lot and won't have regular access to exercise equipment. I want to gain muscle. What are some apps, YouTube videos, video series, etc. you've enjoyed? (Constraints below) [more inside]
How bad is this situation really and what are my moral obligations?
Right now at work (in academia) there is a #metoo kind of situation going on. Six people who work for or with my manager have quit in the last six months (all but one are women, mainly citing the manager's problematic behaviour as the reason). I'm trying to figure out just how bad it is, and what my obligations (moral/ethical) are, as someone who is only peripherally affected. [more inside]
Can I jury rig a walking desk?
I realized that most of my day I'm just answering e-mails - could I set a small Chromebook up to a treadmill at my gym to make a walking desk? [more inside]
Sandwich Cookie Sandwich
Is there a difference between a cookie sandwich and a sandwich cookie, and if so, how are they different?
posted by MrBobinski at 8:04 PM PST - 24 comments
posted by MrBobinski at 8:04 PM PST - 24 comments
Autofill Everyone
Because of doing a shitload of data entry in google forms, I have nearly seven kajillion other peoples' names, addresses, phone numbers and email addresses saved in my google autofill settings. I can only seem to delete them 1 by 1 which would take forever because, like I said, I did a shitload of data entry. Is there a way to delete them all in one fell swoop?
posted by Grandysaur at 7:00 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by Grandysaur at 7:00 PM PST - 5 comments
Intermittent fasting for women?
There are a ton of “health journalists” (content creators) on the web arguing about whether women should use intermittent fasting (IF) to lose weight/improve their health. If you’re a woman who’s done IF what’s your experience? Or if you’re an actual serious health scientist, what do you make of the literature? [more inside]
posted by stoneandstar at 6:23 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by stoneandstar at 6:23 PM PST - 12 comments
What’s Cookin’ MeFi?
Give me your favorite summer recipes! [more inside]
Candle safety
How do I know if a glass jar is safe for a candle? I am thinking specifically of a glass jar from Dannon's Oui yogurt. [more inside]
Psychedelics for anxiety?
I just read Michael Pollan's book, and I have become convinced that pschobilin's might help with my fairly severe anxiety in a therapeutic session. (Here's an article about it.) But how do I find a reputable guide? [more inside]
Where can I buy a rubber wheel ~1/2" wide x 1 - 1.5" tall
Not quite sure why this has been so hard to find but I'm looking for a wheel that is ~1/2" wide, height not as important but perhaps 1.5" tall. Every one I find online seems to be much wider...
posted by zeoslap at 2:56 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by zeoslap at 2:56 PM PST - 14 comments
cavities brought to you by: your loving workplace
I inherited the casual office candy jar. Tell me your favorite Amazon-able individually wrapped candies! [more inside]
posted by blueberrypuffin at 2:32 PM PST - 30 comments
posted by blueberrypuffin at 2:32 PM PST - 30 comments
Why do notebooks have both an elastic band and a bookmark?
Every notebook I've bought recently has both an elastic band and a fabric bookmark, like in this picture of a Moleskine. Why? I always just end up using the elastic band to keep my place. Is there any reason why I'd need two place markers?
posted by capricorn at 1:52 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by capricorn at 1:52 PM PST - 13 comments
Should I be a teacher?
I've heard lots of frustrations, struggles, and horror stories about the profession of teaching in America, yet I'm still drawn to it as I consider a career change. What should I be considering/thinking about? Details inside. [more inside]
posted by drawfrommemory at 1:41 PM PST - 26 comments
posted by drawfrommemory at 1:41 PM PST - 26 comments
Best Nespresso refillable pods?
None of the refillable pods for Nespresso machines seem to have great reviews...any personal recommendations for which pod system is best, and/or tips to get better espresso from the refillable pods?
Latin study for fun and profit
I took four years of Latin in high school using the hilarious, wry Cambridge Latin Course textbooks, then a few different Ovid and Catullus texts for students. Twenty years later I've forgotten just about everything. As a slacker student, what's the most engaging way to re-learn Latin over the next year? I'd especially love an all-in-one textbook, and one that pays attention to poetic devices and linguistic oddities would be especially welcome -- but so would any anecdotes, advice for dilettantes, or tales of your own Latin re/learning. Spero me?
posted by tapir-whorf at 12:31 PM PST - 9 comments
posted by tapir-whorf at 12:31 PM PST - 9 comments
What are some tips for working a different shift from your spouse?
Mrs. BBQ works evening shifts (3p-11:30p) and I work first shift (7a-6p including commute). We make the most of the time off we have together - but any tips or life experiences from others in this situation? [more inside]
What is up with the "Beautiful Girl" number in Singin' in the Rain?
The montage of musical numbers exploding after the advent of talking pictures in Singin' in the Rain culminates in the "Beautiful Girl" number, a lavish song and dance routine interrupted by a tableau vivant plus voiceover of several chic fashions. The scene is there so that Kathy is found again and can reunite with Don. But...what the heck is that number even going to be used for? [more inside]
posted by petiteviolette at 12:19 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by petiteviolette at 12:19 PM PST - 12 comments
Summer Hoodie of My Dreams
So this is the summer weight hoodie of my dreams: the American Giant Summer Full Zip . I ordered it in the lovely Deep Marine in an XL. It's fantastic: nice weight, all cotton, great zipper, etc. But it seems like these are made for slim athletic people who like their clothes tight. That is not me. And they don't make this in XXL. I am sad. [more inside]
posted by MillyMath at 12:11 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by MillyMath at 12:11 PM PST - 7 comments
How to help a doctor in their first job hunt?
What are some good tools and resources for doctors hunting for their first job out of residency? [more inside]
posted by protocoach at 11:22 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by protocoach at 11:22 AM PST - 6 comments
How to convey the largest possible number with conventional symbols?
The short version: I'm curious about how to represent the largest possible number in an arbitrarily-limited physical space (think, say, a sheet of paper with room for only so many legible characters), using only standard, commonly-recognized numbers and mathematical symbols. [more inside]
posted by the phlegmatic king at 11:08 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by the phlegmatic king at 11:08 AM PST - 15 comments
Quebec City
What are your favorite things to do and see and your favorite places to eat in Québec City in October? All price ranges, honestly. [more inside]
Time to start prepping for Halloween
I recently rewatched - and loved - "The Mummy" (1932) and, with autumn and Halloween on the horizon, I'm feeling the need for a deep-dive into the black-and-white creepy. Tell me about your favorite spine-tinglers of the pre-color era. [more inside]
posted by ryanshepard at 10:40 AM PST - 19 comments
posted by ryanshepard at 10:40 AM PST - 19 comments
Strained workplace atmosphere
I have just taken on a temporary part-time, casual role and have run into problems with my co-worker. [more inside]
In Win 10 Camera, can I stop & resume later, making a video?
That's pretty much it. I usually do pause and unpause as I go but wonder about resuming much later. [more inside]
Well, I've never been to Spain...
Hi folks, heading out to Seville and the Cadiz areas of Spain in the next few weeks. First help me not dress like a doofus. Hints and tips on what folk are wearing so when I go my outfits don't scream "Merica!!" I'm normally an athletic skort and river shoe(Keens) wearer. Second, lists of places to see and places for yummy food are very welcome. [more inside]
posted by PJMoore at 10:05 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by PJMoore at 10:05 AM PST - 10 comments
This lamp is TOO bright. There has to be a way to fix it. Right?
We bought this lamp. It is an LED lamp that doesn't take a bulb; the LEDs are just part of the lamp itself. Unfortunately, it turns out that this lamp is brighter than the sun itself. Help. [more inside]
What is this job called
What is the job title of the person in an App Development or Creative Services consulting company who interacts with the client to determine what the client wants, and then works with a development/creative team to deliver that to the client? [more inside]
Fantasy Football, but not football.
Fantasy football sounds like a lot of fun- except I have no interest in football. Are there other ‘fantasy _____’ leagues a person with other interests can join?
Do Sweat the Small Stuff
How can I learn how to pay attention to detail? [more inside]
Help us UK vacation
We're off to England in a couple of weeks, and we've got the big touristy sights down, but could use suggestions for things to see/do/eat in the really specific area we're visiting- Wiltshire/Dorset. [more inside]
posted by banjo_and_the_pork at 7:36 AM PST - 32 comments
posted by banjo_and_the_pork at 7:36 AM PST - 32 comments
Long-lasting men's boxer briefs
Seeking
(if such a beast exists):
1. Men's cotton boxer briefs
2. That take many years to wear out (rather than developing holes after 1-3 years)
3. Easy but vital: Must be available in a color that is NOT white. (black, for example, is fine)
How do I find more of the best tee shirt I ever owned?
I have a men's black short sleeved tee shirt made by Claiborne, which I bought at Dillard's, probably close to 30 years (!) ago. (Photo; photo showing fabric texture.) It's magical. The texture seems to repel kitty-cat hairs, it has never stretched out, and it still drapes nicely on my pudgy middle-aged frame. [more inside]
posted by The Deej at 6:10 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by The Deej at 6:10 AM PST - 12 comments
Where to watch the Perseid meteor shower near Garden City, Utah?
Where is a good spot to watch the Perseid meteor shower near Garden City, Utah? [more inside]
posted by Grither at 5:24 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by Grither at 5:24 AM PST - 3 comments
Turning 25, Let the Crisis Begin
My kid is turning 25 and is having a hard time figuring out what she wants to do with her life. She's beginning to have anxiety attacks, she's come to me for advice, and I'm really not sure what to tell her. [more inside]
posted by yes I said yes I will Yes at 4:37 AM PST - 21 comments
posted by yes I said yes I will Yes at 4:37 AM PST - 21 comments
Phone interview out of state, should I mention I’ll be in their town?
I have a phone interview with a company out of state. Very excited about the job and don’t want to mess it up! Coincidentally, I already bought a ticket to visit that city to see my partner. Would it be weird to mention I would be in town and if they would like to meet in person, I would be available?
Bonus Q: is it terrible to ask for a 5pm interview if I have a packed schedule at my current job? [more inside]
August 6
Restaurant charging higher sales tax?
So I just went to a well known Italian restaurant in Kearny Mesa, San Diego and when I got the bill I noticed that they charged our table 9.15% sales tax.
I looked up their address on the CA Department of Tax and Fee Administration and it said it should be at 7.75%, which was what most of our others areas is.
Have you seen any other places like this? Why would this happen? Shady business practice?
posted by lain at 11:32 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by lain at 11:32 PM PST - 15 comments
LandlordFilter: How to assess damage that cannot be reasonably repaired?
I'm a newbie landlord. I own a rental house, and my first tenant just moved out. There is damage, and I need help figuring out how much of the damage deposit to refund. [more inside]
posted by qxntpqbbbqxl at 9:17 PM PST - 19 comments
posted by qxntpqbbbqxl at 9:17 PM PST - 19 comments
How can I hire a Ladino-English translator?
I'd like to pay to have two recorded songs in Ladino transcribed and translated to English. Unsurprisingly, given the status of the language, I've had trouble finding any professional translators. Does anyone know someone or know where I might be able to find someone who could do this?
Parallel columns in Pages or other word-processing software?
I am translating an opera libretto from Italian to English. I would like to do a parallel-text version with the Italian on the left and the English on the right. I'm on a Mac; how do I get Pages to do this? Or, what software would you recommend instead for this specific purpose? [more inside]
Help me become a person who makes bitters.
Infusing vodka with interestingly-flavored things makes me happy, but I don't actually drink it that often. After a friend who doesn't drink told me about the joys of putting bitters in soda water, I decided making my own bitters is the answer to doing this and actually consuming what I make. I've never made bitters - have you? [more inside]
Best Intersection of Price and Quality for Men's Undershirts?
I (a woman) like wearing men's "A" undershirts to dance classes. The cheap ones I've tried (Gildan and Fruit of the Loom) lose all their rebound after a few washes. Is there a better price per wearing solution? Nothing over $10 or so, I am taking two classes a day and need a bunch.
Dealing with long term unemployment in a supposedly great economy
Hey hive,
I have been unemployed now for the last 5 months.
I get tons of interviews but have not been able to score a decent offer so far. It is supposedly a great economy and yet I can't find anything so far.
Have you been in a similar position and if so, what's your advice to overcome this situation? [more inside]
How can I show Solidarity with the ordinary people of Iran?
I'm at best ambivalent about the current Iranian government, but I happen to feel the country as a whole is getting a raw deal, for political reasons. How can I give some support to ordinary Iranians without supporting the regime? [more inside]
posted by Alensin at 5:06 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by Alensin at 5:06 PM PST - 2 comments
Which Seattle (third-wave) coffee shops sell tote bags?
I’m in Seattle for the week, which has got me constructing a gift box/bag of sorts full of coffee and chocolate. But I need a tote bag to put everything into. Details inside... [more inside]
posted by un petit cadeau at 4:38 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by un petit cadeau at 4:38 PM PST - 6 comments
So, I need help figuring out how much canned food to give my dog
I am going to be giving my elderly lab dog (12 years old) a sensitive stomach dog food (4health brand at Tractor Supply). I need to figure out how much to give her, I feed her twice a day morning and evening. [more inside]
How do I best build relationships when being alone comes naturally?
I'm 30, trying to figure out what "Adult Phase II" will look like, and find myself bristling at the usual relationship/marriage models that typically come next. [more inside]
posted by thoughtful_ravioli at 3:30 PM PST - 19 comments
posted by thoughtful_ravioli at 3:30 PM PST - 19 comments
Career day
Can you personally recommend a career counselor in the Chicago area (or who works remotely)? [more inside]
posted by theodolite at 2:03 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by theodolite at 2:03 PM PST - 2 comments
Looking for a scanner that works with Chromebook
I bought an Asus Chromebook for travel, and like it enough to make it my home laptop as well. But I quickly realized it won't work with my old (but very reliable) ScanSnap S1500. Any Chromebook-compatible scanner recommendations would be greatly appreciated. [more inside]
House cleaner recommendations for Seattle
Our awesome previous house cleaners (independent, recommended by neighbor) moved away a year ago, and I'm finally ready to admit I can't keep the house anywhere near as clean without help. Do you have anyone you'd like to give more business to? Northeast Seattle location if it matters. Thanks!
posted by sapere aude at 12:59 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by sapere aude at 12:59 PM PST - 5 comments
party favors for grown ups
Recommendations for fun/funny but mostly work-appropriate party favors for grown ups. [more inside]
posted by phunniemee at 12:52 PM PST - 16 comments
posted by phunniemee at 12:52 PM PST - 16 comments
BY HAND
Where have all the music blogs gone?
A decade or so ago, the web was awash with small mp3 blogs, presenting all manner of music old and new, often grouped into categories that reflected genres or personal interests. Where are they now? [more inside]
Buyer's remorse, shoe edition
A couple of weeks ago, I bought a pair of shoes from Amazon. Now, having worn them a bunch of times, I'm not sure I'm happy with the purchase. What are my options? [more inside]
Are there standards for track-level artist metadata for musicals?
I'm quite fond of the original concept recording of Jesus Christ Superstar (a.k.a. the brown album). Are there official standards for how to do track-level artist metadata for musicals? [more inside]
posted by mrbeefy at 12:00 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by mrbeefy at 12:00 PM PST - 2 comments
Advice for instructors working with sign language interpreters?
This coming semester, for the first time, I'll have sign language interpreters working alongside me in one of the college classes that I teach. I am looking for specific suggestions about how to work with them -- and the student for whom they'll be interpreting -- so that everything rolls as smoothly as possible. [more inside]
posted by Dr. Wu at 11:51 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by Dr. Wu at 11:51 AM PST - 10 comments
Business without Business School
I want to go to business school without going to business school. [more inside]
Slackbot for onboarding new Slack users
I'm setting up a Slack workspace for a community group. I want to set up a Slackbot that pushes messages to new users on a set schedule. I tried Aloha but the new users aren't actually seeing those messages. Do you have a recommendation for a different (free) app to use? [more inside]
Future Imperfect
What free or low cost methods, techniques, reading material, podcasts, etc. should I be using or studying to better support myself when I don't have a support system? [more inside]
posted by Freeze Peach at 11:28 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by Freeze Peach at 11:28 AM PST - 6 comments
Is there data on US housing sizes for all housing?
All of the data I can find on US housing sizes are for newly-built single-family homes only (for example, this census data). Are there any data series showing housing size (especially over time) for all housing types, including apartments and older houses? [more inside]
posted by enn at 11:24 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by enn at 11:24 AM PST - 3 comments
Name suggestions for a sff group
I'm thinking of setting up a science-fiction/fantasy group that'll meet up in real life. I'm thinking once a month we'll meet in a local pub and just talk about various sci-fi/fantasy things.
And of course I want a cool name, something that'll attract attention on a flyer, but also be inclusive and not so sff that it'll put people off. I was thinking just Mullingar Science Fiction & Fantasy group, but that doesn't really roll off the tongue. [more inside]
posted by Fence at 11:04 AM PST - 16 comments
posted by Fence at 11:04 AM PST - 16 comments
Synthetic travel t-shirt
I’m looking for a thicker and roomier variety of synthetic t-shirts. [more inside]
Queens Quietude Query
Where can one easily go for peace and quietude near Astoria, Queens without spending a lot of time or money? [more inside]
Could my cat really have diabetes?
I'm skeptical, overwhelmed, and looking for a recommendation for either a home vet in NYC and/or a rescue org who might help find her a better home. [more inside]
How do I make my apartment smell fresher and better?
Beyond the basics of keeping our apartment clean: do you have any thoughts/one weird tricks about ventilation or cleaning practices that can keep our place fresher, more ventilated, generally better smelling? [more inside]
posted by RajahKing at 9:08 AM PST - 17 comments
posted by RajahKing at 9:08 AM PST - 17 comments
Amy Santiago, pls dial extension: me
Looking for any and all "hacks"/diy projects/pinterest ideas, must-have items (file folder? perfect planner?) for making this upcoming school semester organized and color coded! [more inside]
What do I look for when vetting an infant daycare?
My son will be starting daycare this fall at 13 weeks old. We are touring a couple places this week. I am totally green and have no idea how to get this places. Any tips? He has no special needs and is formula fed.
Help me find another forgotten book- chick lit style
Looking for a book about an overweight, stressed out woman who loses weight by walking the city. [more inside]
posted by maxg94 at 8:06 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by maxg94 at 8:06 AM PST - 7 comments
Alcohol and inflammation
I have fibromyalgia and significant arthritis. I recently discovered that alcohol is functioning as a much better anti-inflammatory than ibuprofen, ice, rest, and yoga. I’ve always believed that alcohol is unhealthy and should be used only occasionally and in moderation. So what do I do with this information? [more inside]
Uyghurs: ethnic cleansing and concentration camps, what can I do?
What steps can individuals outside of China take to put an end to the ethnic cleansing and concentration camps in Xinjiang?
Can you suggest poems about mental health issues?
My workplace is holding an event and one of our service users will be reading a poem about the struggle with mental health challenges. Do you have any suggestions please? [more inside]
Getting a good night's sleep as a social problem
So I have a really specific sleep issue. I have a difficult time sleeping when a TV is on in the background playing speech. And unfortunately for me, this is what one of my roommates is falling asleep to.
The issue: How do I ask my roommate to mute his TV? Details below the jump. [more inside]
posted by LSK at 4:21 AM PST - 30 comments
posted by LSK at 4:21 AM PST - 30 comments
August 5
Should I bite the bullet and start this counseling MA?
After a long period of unsuccessful job hunting, I'm debating whether to start an MA in counseling psychology (that would lead to an MFT certification) this fall. I have a lot of ambivalence about the program but have been crushed by my experience trying to find a job. I feel really lost and don't know how to move forward. Your help would be appreciated. [more inside]
UK city councillor wants to get onto Nextdoor in ward
Hi all, I am a UK city councillor and I want to get onto Nextdoor for the area I represent but do not live in, so I can respond to people's casework requests and enquiries. How do I do that? They seem to have address verification and invite steps for residents and I don't want to spoof that of course. Do I sign up as a business? Thank you!
Brain rehabilitation after surgery
So I have a meningioma, basically sitting at my third eye. Overachiever that I am, it is "huge," and my doctor said they can't explain why I'm still walking and talking.
My upcoming craniotomy is the deluxe version, but I look forward to the removal of my brain slug, and I've read the very funny Everywhereist to help get prepared.
My surgery is soon, but I would be so happy to hear ideas about how to rehabilitate my brain afterwards, and ideas on how to adapt to the loss of my sense of smell and taste.
posted by Little Dawn at 11:43 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by Little Dawn at 11:43 PM PST - 6 comments
mani pedi cooties
Should customers at nail salons worry about germs on manicure tools? [more inside]
How much old caulk to remove?
I'm redoing the caulk in my bathtub/shower. I've removed the old caulk in the horizontal seams between the tub and the tiles. But what about the caulk in the vertical seams where the tile walls meet each other? Do I have to remove all the caulk up to the ceiling? It's in good shape, can I leave it? If I do, will this compromise the seal in the corners where the horizontal new caulk meets the vertical old caulk?
posted by christa at 8:31 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by christa at 8:31 PM PST - 4 comments
Batch-scraping email jpgs
My sister lost family photos in the Redding fire. I have some on email. How to collect them so to give her copies? [more inside]
posted by mono blanco at 8:20 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by mono blanco at 8:20 PM PST - 6 comments
Where to go walking in Britain?
My wife and I will be spending about 10 days in Britain at the beginning of September, flying in and out of Heathrow. We’d like to spend ~4 days of that time walking somewhere — ideally, about 10 miles a day, ending each day in an interesting village or town. Where should we go? [more inside]
posted by crazy with stars at 8:06 PM PST - 20 comments
posted by crazy with stars at 8:06 PM PST - 20 comments
Bookmarks for Podcasts?
Is there a good iPhone app that provides similar features to Audible for podcasts and mp3 files? [more inside]
posted by The Architect at 7:36 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by The Architect at 7:36 PM PST - 4 comments
what router will let me prioritize VNC traffic?
What device/software will keep my VNC running smoothly when other computers & devices are active in my house? [more inside]
posted by ASCII Costanza head at 7:36 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by ASCII Costanza head at 7:36 PM PST - 3 comments
Buffalo to Watertown to Montreal to Toronto
Let's just leave it at that I got a little behind in our roadtrip planning and I have so much to do. I appreciate any ideas or recommendations. Thanks for your help. [more inside]
posted by RoadScholar at 6:36 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by RoadScholar at 6:36 PM PST - 14 comments
Intentional medicine price inflation?
I recently went to a Minute Clinic and was prescribed one antibiotic for treatment for a minor bacterial infection. As I was filling the prescription, the clerk mentioned that it would likely be around ~50 dollars. The pharmacist then realized that they didn't have that particular medication in stock, called back to the nurse and asked if they could substitute. The substitution medication was 5 dollars. What would explain the price difference, and are doctors pressured to push pricier but equivalent drugs on patients? [more inside]
Good UFO/alien documentaries?
Are there any legitimately good UFO or alien sightings, or abduction, documentaries? I feel like all the ones created are so cheesy and immature, and I’d really love to see something of a particular quality. I’m not expecting Errol Morris here, but something actually interesting and enticing about an event like the Rendelsham Forest sighting would be really cool, or even the Phoenix Lights, or any other big sighting, without the cheesy graphics and sound effects. Anyone have some recommendations?
posted by gucci mane at 5:40 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by gucci mane at 5:40 PM PST - 2 comments
How to be taken seriously as a professional while networking
What can I do to be taken more seriously as a professional while networking as a twenties-something woman? What are some green or red 'flags' I should look for in straight men to differentiate a sincere professional interest from a less-than-platonic one in a networking setting? [more inside]
posted by postmortemsalmon at 5:29 PM PST - 20 comments
posted by postmortemsalmon at 5:29 PM PST - 20 comments
How can I make this swing go straight?
We have a swing hanging from an uneven branch in our backyard. It swings crooked and I'd like to straighten it out, but before I get up on a ladder again I'd like to know what I should be doing. [more inside]
How should I back up my data
All my storage is full, across all my devices and accounts- iPhones, Mac laptops, camera, iCloud, Gmail. My whole life has become a popup message telling me I'm out of storage. It sucks. How do I back everything up? [more inside]
Songs for multi-generational sing-along
Help me make a list of must-have songs from the 50’s through current for a family event. [more inside]
How to best dedicate a month to learning piano?
I have a month-long sabbatical coming up, which I am very excited about. One of my goals to learn a bit of piano. Given a month of free time (maybe an hour each day that I can spend practicing), and a decent digital piano in my possession, how should I spend that time? Hiring a teacher and taking lessons? Doing online classes? On YouTube? Just brute forcing my way through Satie? Open to any and all suggestions. [more inside]
hiking shirt for small framed, long armed guy
What brands do suggest investigating for travel/hiking shirts for a male with long arms and a small frame? [more inside]
posted by egk at 3:21 PM PST - 3 comments
posted by egk at 3:21 PM PST - 3 comments
What sort of a drink is Marlon?
I've been re-visiting The Street's first two albums, and he mentions drinking Marlon. I have done some googling, and have found a Marlon cocktail (that sounds disgusting), but I doubt this is what Mike Skinner is referring to. What is it? A brandy (he likes brandy)?
posted by not_that_epiphanius at 2:10 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by not_that_epiphanius at 2:10 PM PST - 5 comments
“Indestructible”? Hah!
My 8 month old puppy, Gatsby is a serious chewer. Please help me find soft dog toys that will last more than a day! [more inside]
posted by Weeping_angel at 1:04 PM PST - 20 comments
posted by Weeping_angel at 1:04 PM PST - 20 comments
How to display a wide colour test image on an LG OLED TV
I have an LG "C7" OLED TV which has DCI-P3 wide colour gamut support.
How can I view some wide colour gamut content? [more inside]
What's the simplest way to download all of my photos off of Flickr?
I'm trying to find a way to batch download all of the photos I've uploaded to Flickr in the original quality that I uploaded them to the site. Is there a way to do this?
posted by Proginoskes at 12:34 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by Proginoskes at 12:34 PM PST - 4 comments
How to wear boots with orthotic inserts?
I have flat feet, so I need to wear hard orthotic inserts in my shoes. I make this work well enough with most shoes by removing the liner that comes with them, and replacing them with thin shoe liners (e.g. by Dr. Scholl's) with the orthotics on top. With boots (work/winter/hiking boots), it's a whole different story. I haven't been able to make this work yet, and I hope the hive can help me out here by giving their own experiences (and hopefully success stories) or good ideas and advice. [more inside]
mastermind groups - otherwise known as? how to find? thoughts?
Hi again mefites.. So, another possible title for this ask could have been "mastermind groups - discuss" a la coffee talk. What experiences have you had with them or, anything like them that goes by a different name I might not know (er, perhaps a more humble name, lol?), and how did you find / form the group? know of any friendly such groups that are recruiting? Or, idk, want to start one with me? [more inside]
recipes that can be prepped, stored, and finished quickly?
The Jay Rayner review on the blue has a throwaway comment about the following good restaurant trick: "That pork dish is built on the classic restaurant trick of getting all the hard work in early – the slow cooking, the shredding, the pressing – so you spin it quickly into something very pleasing on service." Can the hive mind recommend recipes like this for the home? Bonus points for cheap, high fiber, and good for once-a-week cooking.
'Poser'-like software for backgrounds
I am trying to recall the name of a specific piece of free(?) software (or possibly a website) that allows the user to design and create simple 3-D room interiors/backgrounds for art reference - where basic shapes/furniture items can be assembled into a configuration of the user's choice, and then used as reference for drawings, in order to assist with mapping out perspective, lighting, etc. [more inside]
posted by Morfil Ffyrnig at 9:23 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by Morfil Ffyrnig at 9:23 AM PST - 6 comments
History of Transformation of Civil War Opinion
The Civil War was fought entirely on the basis of slavery. I've just been informed of this (quite bluntly!) and it's been made clear to me that it's the only opinion a civilized person may express on the matter. So, ok, I can dutifully keep myself within civilized society by getting with this program, sure. But, in my disorientation, I'm curious about how this came about! [more inside]
posted by Quisp Lover at 8:32 AM PST - 40 comments
posted by Quisp Lover at 8:32 AM PST - 40 comments
Advice for the parents of a returning Peace Corps Volunteer
Our daughter is returning after two years in the Peace Corps in east Africa. What can we as parents do to support her? [more inside]
posted by bluesky43 at 6:21 AM PST - 16 comments
posted by bluesky43 at 6:21 AM PST - 16 comments
Help me keep my sheet together
I have a tub washer, Maytag, Bravos 6 years old, no agitator. My clothes and linens are significantly more holey. [more inside]
UK Helplines for the partners of people suffering from depression?
Is there an equivalent of the Samaritans helpline for people whose partners are currently going through mental health issues (analogous to al-anon as a support group for the partners of alcoholics)? [more inside]
August 4
Is this how antidepressants work?
I'm feeling depressed because some truly terrible shit is going down in my life. Is this what antidepressants are for? [more inside]
Do I need a doula for an unmedicated VBAC?
I’m 30 weeks pregnant with my second child and I want an unmedicated VBAC. Should I hire a doula? Complication: postpartum PTSD. [more inside]
What cooking supplies and meals for 4 days in a state park cabin?
We (2 adults, 1 kid) are going to spend 3 nights in a barebones beds only cabin in a week. There is a grill/fire pit. I'm borrowing a camp stove. What do we need to bring to eat and prepare food? [more inside]
How long can I store not-yet-cooked fava bean falafel mix in the fridge?
I wanted to make falafel tomorrow using dried fava beans. So, I just started soaking the beans. But, I realized I need to soak the beans for 24 hours, not overnight.
That means I would be cooking the falafel at like 11 PM tomorrow; not very fun. If instead I just do all the prep but not cook (i.e., process the beans and spices etc. but stop there) tomorrow night, how long will the ready-to-be-cooked mixture keep in the fridge? Will it still be tasty?
posted by 3FLryan at 7:46 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by 3FLryan at 7:46 PM PST - 5 comments
How is this possible?
How can you send an e-mail out from a gmail account when your access has been cut off? [more inside]
posted by Toddles at 7:29 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by Toddles at 7:29 PM PST - 11 comments
What Is This Word/Feeling That's On The Tip of My Tongue?
So, today my husband informed me that while I was out of town he bought a new type of household cleaner. This elicited a response from me that was less than kind. When he asked what the deal was, I tried to explain but the word that I know exists to describe my feeling completely eluded me. What was the word? [more inside]
Finisher denial: open water swim
Howdy everybody. I just finished an open water swim and can't shake the feeling that I didn't swim the whole distance. Is this a thing? Help me believe. [more inside]
posted by sacchan at 6:47 PM PST - 12 comments
posted by sacchan at 6:47 PM PST - 12 comments
Least sweet ice cream brand- SF Bay Area filter
I like ice cream. I don't like it so syrup-sweet it almost burns your tongue (I'm looking at you, San Francisco favorite Bi-Rite!).
Suggestions wanted for a supermarket or fancy shop ice cream in the SF Bay Area (I'm mostly East Bay). It'd be a superplus if this was a supermarket pint that I could pick up on a whim, but fancy shop ice cream recommendations will be... investigated enthusiastically.
bulk scanning business cards
I have a lot of business cards cluttering up my life. And I live in a tiny apartment. Does anyone know of a machine/device that I can use to rapidly scan through bulk amounts of cards? ( )
posted by earthwalker7 at 5:33 PM PST - 10 comments
posted by earthwalker7 at 5:33 PM PST - 10 comments
Gifts ideas for an octogenarian, Italian-American barber.
I'd like to assemble an un-retirement gift for a friend in his late 80s. 70% of our conversations involve him telling me stories about growing up in a small village in Sicily in the '30s or working in Rome as a teenage barber beginning just before WWII. He moved to the US in the late '50s and doesn't get back very often. I'd ideally love to include something that's vaguely traditional, imported from or closely related to Italy, and shows that I've been paying attention. (Extra points for Southern Italy.) But, I'm stumped. [more inside]
Engagement announcement worries.
My fiancée and I are publicly announcing our engagement at an event coming up very soon, but I’m having weird feelings related to my longtime friend announcing his engagement just a week before. I’m struggling to figure out to proceed and whether my worries are justified or if this is an indication of some weird assumptions I need to think about. [more inside]
Is this as creepy as I think or am I overreacting?
I think my stepbrother got a little creepy on me today, and I'm not sure how to take it and what, if anything, to do about it. [more inside]
Do I take this job?
I would like to decide whether to indicate to my employer I want to work for them full time. [more inside]
Car is hurting my back :(
The resolution to this question is that I bought a car that's absolutely destroying my back. I know I made a mistake buying this thing but now I am not sure what to do in order to not destroy my one and only back. [more inside]
Bug ID?
Best books on the science of eating and weight loss/muscle building
I'm looking for books that will teach me about the science behind eating so that I understand what healthy eating habits look like, especially when it comes to weight loss and muscle building. [more inside]
posted by orangesky4 at 11:11 AM PST - 9 comments
posted by orangesky4 at 11:11 AM PST - 9 comments
Men's bathing suits that look & work like regular shorts?
I like to wear a bathing suit a lot of the time when I'm hiking in the summer, so that if I see some water I can jump in for a quick dip and then dry off with minimal fuss. I'd like it even better if I had a bathing suit that could do a convincing impression of a normal pair of shorts. Halp? [more inside]
posted by Anticipation Of A New Lover's Arrival, The at 10:37 AM PST - 15 comments
posted by Anticipation Of A New Lover's Arrival, The at 10:37 AM PST - 15 comments
Need advice navigating first time nerves with a new partner
After a very long dry spell I finally feel ready to have sex again, but not quite there due to a really dumb problem.
TMI below: [more inside]
Best option to get rid of 2003 Toyota Corolla
Should I donate, sell or trade in my 2003 Toyota Corolla? [more inside]
Hotel recommendations in Miami/Miami Beach
Hive mind: what are your favorite boutique hotels or places to stay in Miami/Miami Beach? [more inside]
How to HR?
My company has never had HR before, and our new HR lead scheduled 1 on 1 introductory meetings with everyone to get a sense of the company culture and how everyone is feeling - what's working, what's not, etc. Is there any way to *honestly* engage in this meeting with positive outcomes? [more inside]
Where can I buy indigo dyeing supplies in person?
I was planning to do some indigo dyeing this weekend, but left my thiox (Thiourea dioxide) at home, a three hour drive from where I am now. Is thiox, or alternatively Sodium Hydrosulfite, something that can be purchased in person outside of specialty dye stores? Or, can you think of a store in Indianapolis where I could buy supplies for natural dyeing and/or a premixed indigo dyeing kit? [more inside]
posted by cimton at 7:11 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by cimton at 7:11 AM PST - 3 comments
Can I toast sticky rice in advance (for laab)?
For making laab, can I toast the sticky rice in bulk and freeze it (or even store it in the pantry), or does it go stale?
posted by pompomtom at 1:53 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by pompomtom at 1:53 AM PST - 4 comments
When HR isn't forthcoming - at all - about PTO?
May I ask those in HR or with experience in dealing with a recalcitrant HR about PTO accumulation disclosure? I can't get a straight answer about my hours. [more inside]
posted by goofyfoot at 1:04 AM PST - 20 comments
posted by goofyfoot at 1:04 AM PST - 20 comments
how relatable is anxiety to people without anxiety?
If you have anxiety, could you read this Medium article and comment on how accurately it describes your experience? [more inside]
August 3
Help me find songs that start slow and then rock out.
Inspired by a tweet about "Come Sail Away" by Styx, I'm trying to come up with songs that start out slow but become rocking. It's okay if they switch back and forth, and they don't needs to start super slow. Kelly Clarkson's "Since You've Been Gone" is a good example of both. Longer songs, like “Funeral For A Friend/Love Lies Bleeding” by Elon John are also okay! [more inside]
What are your favourite interesting human-focused Instagram accounts?
I’m looking for instagram accounts that consistently post photos of people, zoomed in enough that I can identify their features on my smartphone screen, not too blurry or excessively photoshopped (e.g. no fashion ads), and in a variety of poses, to use as drawing references! Bonus points for POC and/or queer subjects.
Halal recipe for DIY vanilla extract?
Does anyone have a recipe for DIY vanilla extract that is halal?
Are the glycerine formulations any good?
We're making ice cream, but would also bake with it. [more inside]
What band is this t-shirt related to?
Awhile ago I bought this t-shirt because I liked the design, but today a couple of people commented on it being connected to their favorite band. Which one, though?
posted by Fister Roboto at 7:42 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by Fister Roboto at 7:42 PM PST - 8 comments
small gifts for kids at a going away party
Where to buy small gifts for kids attending a going away party? Small painting kits with a message; small stuffed animals associated with her name, etc. My kid is the one moving away, and we are the hosts. [more inside]
What is this round ball of twine thingy?
My mom won this at a curling club raffle. She doesn’t knows what it is. It appears to be a ball of twine about five inches in diameter, with a braided twine “handle”. It’s heavy — about two pounds — heavier than I think it would be if it were just twine. She has glued the “handle” to the ball to make it into a base, and is using it as a doorstop. Here’s a picture: ball of mystery.
Bedbug legal/monetary compensation options - Vermont, USA
In my last question, I found bedbugs in my bedroom. Exterminators did a heat treatment, it didn't work, now I have bites again. I don't want to keep repeating this cycle for months on end. I want to live in a bedbug-free apartment. If the next treatment doesn't work either, what are my options, legally and generally? Are there things I can do to ensure the next treament works better? I'm in central Vermont. [more inside]
posted by Questolicious at 5:10 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by Questolicious at 5:10 PM PST - 4 comments
MattressFirm - Yes or No?
I told the salesman at a MattressFirm store that I had $10 (for example) to spend and he proposed a set that was $9.50. However, I feel that had my limit been $5, he would have proposed the exact same bed for $4.50. Am I mistaken? A different mattress chain wouldn't budge on pricing so I'm not sure of the most sensible option. What has been your experience with MattressFirm?
posted by jojo and the benjamins at 5:07 PM PST - 11 comments
posted by jojo and the benjamins at 5:07 PM PST - 11 comments
What would cause an appliance to throw an error on a specific outlet?
I have a Breville Smart Oven. It's been great for two years and now it's throwing an error (E05) every time I use it in one specific outlet. If I use it in another outlet, it works. Why? [more inside]
Can you recommend a t-shirt like this old Madewell style?
I really liked this Madewell t-shirt. I'm looking for something similar--lightweight, 100% cotton, fitted and slim but not too clingy, with a v-neck that's not very low or a crew neck, sleeves set at the shoulder rather than dropping. Also fairly long, as I'm tall. I don't like their newer v-neck as much. Any recommendations?
posted by pinochiette at 4:56 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by pinochiette at 4:56 PM PST - 8 comments
Nasty poison ivy rash
I was out doing yard work and accidentally managed to get poison ivy up the back of my leg... [more inside]
Cool biking products for 5-yo girl?
My 5-yo niece is learning how to ride a bike and I want to buy some fun and cool biking stuff for her (max 50 USD). Suggestions?
posted by Foci for Analysis at 3:56 PM PST - 15 comments
posted by Foci for Analysis at 3:56 PM PST - 15 comments
Most effective weed killer to buy in the US
What is the most effective weed killer that they sell in the U.S.?
Song ID help - chorus is an overlay of two ~monotone, speaking voices
Although I don't remember any of the lyrics, the song had a very strange style, where the 'chorus' was two male voices speaking monotonously over each other -- like two news channels talking over each other at the same time. I heard this song over the weekend - I'm pretty sure the song title had "murder" or "murdering" in it, not entirely sure of that though.
Additionally, in general - I find songs with somewhat chaotically overlaid separate music/lyric tracks really relaxing. So if you know of any other examples -- where it sounds like two radio stations or news stations playing at the same time overlapping a bit chaotically, general recommendations where part or all of the song is composed in this style (+ youtube links) are also very appreciated.
Thanks in advance! :D [more inside]
posted by ch3cooh at 2:44 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by ch3cooh at 2:44 PM PST - 14 comments
How to re-set up iphone *facepalm*
Setting up a new iphoneSE. Old phone is seriously messed up, couldnt read the verification code so I set up a new apple ID. Then I found a way to read the verification code.... [more inside]
Why not use a fan on baby?
I searched for an answer to this question online, and everybody is telling you not to point a fan at your infant, but nobody says why. So I don't get it, a fan moves air around and if this air hits skin it helps evaporation and cools the baby down. [more inside]
posted by SweetLiesOfBokonon at 2:30 PM PST - 14 comments
posted by SweetLiesOfBokonon at 2:30 PM PST - 14 comments
Managing labour on my own
Asking for a dear friend.
I am 38 weeks pregnant with my 3rd child and it is likely I will be on my own in labour for some of the time (my husband does nightshift and would also have to take our 2 children to our friend's house. No family nearby). Has anyone successfully induced labour via natural methods? Has anyone ever given birth on their own at home, accidentally or planned?
Flea-mergency, please help!
Seems like we have fleas in our yard as my dog comes in covered in them after being outside. I've frontlined him but that doesn't seem to be a deterrent, and he's allergic so he gets so itchy he scratches til he bleeds :( What can I do to end (and win) this battle? [more inside]
Help! Virus.
I foolishly visited a site I read about called [redacted] and am pretty sure my computer (HP Laptop) is now infected with a virus. [more inside]
posted by wittgenstein at 1:30 PM PST - 13 comments
posted by wittgenstein at 1:30 PM PST - 13 comments
Word: How to replace italicised words with underscores of same length?
I'm preparing some quizzes that I'll use over a few months. I *will* forget the answers so I'd like to create an answer sheet and a test sheet. They take the form of fill-in-the-gaps [more inside]
posted by Hadrian at 1:17 PM PST - 6 comments
posted by Hadrian at 1:17 PM PST - 6 comments
How can I easily tell if a Wordpress plugin update broke something?
We have a couple of WordPress sites where we are using a number of plugins. Some of those plugins are FREE while others PREMIUM. We do also use Custom PREMIUM themes.
Right now after updating those plugins and themes, we are forced to manually check all of our sites for any broken functions/errors and this is tiring. [more inside]
posted by divinitys.mortal.flesh at 1:12 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by divinitys.mortal.flesh at 1:12 PM PST - 5 comments
Artist to help people imagine what someone looks like?
Working on a project where, based on a phone interview, someone (the 'describer') imagines what someone (the 'subject') looks like, then describes them to someone (the 'artist') who makes a picture of that person. What kind(s) of artist would be best for this and potentially willing to participate? [more inside]
posted by amtho at 12:09 PM PST - 5 comments
posted by amtho at 12:09 PM PST - 5 comments
How to "even out your skin tone?"
I'm 30 years old and I decided to learn how to wear makeup! [more inside]
Boston hotel with adjoining rooms or other setup for kids
Do you have a recommended hotel in Boston that has adjoining rooms or another good set up for kids? [more inside]
Writings on the Purpose of Life
My deep-thinking 17yo is struggling with the big questions: what is the point of life in the face of certain death, how can one live and be happy with all the suffering in the world, and so on. I'd like to offer them some readings on the subject, and would like suggestions. [more inside]
Can these plants be saved?
In need of a plant doctor. Pictures inside. [more inside]
the cat which will not be named
It’s another round of “name my cat please!” Pics of course. [more inside]
Goalie equipment for the growing teen - help me shop!
I need to outfit a still-growing teen with goalie gear. They have played other positions in the past when they were a bit younger, with hand-me-down gear. Now, they have signed up for a house league, playing goalie, and we need to get shopping. [more inside]
Why promote an old book?
I received a gift book from the author that seems legit to have come directly from Amazon with a gift receipt. Why? [more inside]
posted by nantucket at 10:28 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by nantucket at 10:28 AM PST - 11 comments
Good actor interviews on podcasts?
Recommend me some good podcast interviews that are actor interviews. [more inside]
posted by selfnoise at 10:21 AM PST - 12 comments
posted by selfnoise at 10:21 AM PST - 12 comments
Why is IG so creepy?
CAD Sherpa needed.
I have several projects coming along over the next year or so that would be drastically easier if I had a working knowledge of 'how to move things around in 3D CAD program.' I'm looking for the best course of action to get me to a baseline of competency in assembling pre-designed pieces in a CAD program. [more inside]
Which translation of The Odyssey?
I just finished listening to Caroline Alexander's translation of the Iliad, read by Dominic Keating. I loved it. Which translation and reading of the Odyssey should I listen to? [more inside]
posted by Winnie the Proust at 8:43 AM PST - 11 comments
posted by Winnie the Proust at 8:43 AM PST - 11 comments
Zion/Bryce in Dead of Winter
Mrs sandmanwv and I are thinking of doing Zion/Bryce maybe South Rim Grand Canyon over Xmas-New Years Holidays. Is this a good idea? We are not super experienced hikers/campers but will enjoy the scenery. We're hedging by getting cancellable lodging. Would there be an nature-alternative from Vegas in case there's a snowstorm?
posted by sandmanwv at 8:18 AM PST - 16 comments
posted by sandmanwv at 8:18 AM PST - 16 comments
Organizing writing projects, semi-projects, and notes
I'm a writer who works on poetry, short fiction, novels, and essays. So I have a lot of writing projects in various stages - everything from multiple chapters of a novel to a few words I thought of that might eventually turn into a poem. Writers of MeFi, how do you organize it all? (I think this would also apply to artists in other fields - artists who sketch, sculptors with ideas - so feel free to chime in.) [more inside]
Looking for documentary about London townhouses
There are umpty bajillion documentaries out there about aristocratic country houses of Britain. But ye old stereotypical aristo would have had a fancy country estate and a house in Town. Are there any documentaries about how London townhouses were built or run during the 18th-20th centuries? I'm less interested in the Upstairs/Downstairs drama and more in the logistics of the place, and the architecture/design.
My creative mojo is back, and I can't get off the couch.
I recently surmounted an enormous creative block which put me off-course for nearly two decades. This is hugely exciting. Since doing so, however, I've fallen into a pretty cavernous state of lethargy. This is hugely problematic. [more inside]
Large format woodblock print artist ID?
I visited the Hirshhorn Museum at the Smithsonian in the fall of 1990. There was an exhibit of woodblock prints that were almost photorealistic, made by a woman, and very large, I believe she carved the blocks out of full plywood sheets (4x8). I think I remember a forest scene, but nothing else about the content of the prints. No amount of searching the web in the intervening years has been fruitful, so I turn to you.
posted by outfielder at 6:08 AM PST - 4 comments
posted by outfielder at 6:08 AM PST - 4 comments
Practical prepping?
Looking for your best practical prepping tips for all the possible apocalypse scenarios I keep perseverating on. Details inside. [more inside]
posted by jeszac at 6:07 AM PST - 32 comments
posted by jeszac at 6:07 AM PST - 32 comments
Do Self Powered/No Battery Wireless Doorbells work?
There are a number of seller on amazon and other sites offering "No Battery" or "Self Powered" wireless doorbells.
Do you have any experience with them? Do they work?
soothing noises
My husband is stressed out about mold. Can you help me reassure him? [more inside]
How do YOU take time off?
I am looking for ideas, anecdotes, and experiences of academic/writer/artist types-- people who work on long term projects on a flexible schedule. How do you schedule your time off? Weekends? Pick a week day? Ad hoc? [more inside]
How to correct for incorrect (?) SAR/PAR in FFMPEG?
On our website, we take user video uploads (in a variety of formats/qualities, natch) and create an animated GIF by programatically extracting frames and recombining them using FFMPEG. We've got a few videos that are full HD (1920x1080), but the framegrabs coming out are 1440x1080, squished horizontally. [more inside]
posted by sandra_s at 3:49 AM PST - 5 comments
posted by sandra_s at 3:49 AM PST - 5 comments
August 2
Numb torso: wtf
YANAD, but my doctor was baffled by numbness on the right side of my torso. I don't have any other symptoms. What's happening? [more inside]
Shorten Google Chrome URL box
I want to see more extension buttons to the right of my URL bar. However, I see NO way to shorten the overly long URL box on Chrome. Have searched high and low, to no avail. [more inside]
posted by lometogo at 10:43 PM PST - 4 comments
posted by lometogo at 10:43 PM PST - 4 comments
12" Macbook evolution
Used 12" Macbook buying guide that compares features from different release years? [more inside]
Shallow "landing table" style console, stand or pedestal?
I'm looking for a shallow (and not terribly long) table to serve as a landing spot for keys by my door. 10" or ideally shallower, less than 24" wide , only proviso is that it needs to not seem rickety. [more inside]
Can anyone help me deal better with my time confetti?
My job combines working on long term projects (for both internal and external clients) as well as providing on-demand phone, email and walk-in client support. I am in desperate need of project/time management strategies that take utter unpredictability and small increments of time into account. Help? [more inside]
Why have people uploaded our old website to our old domain?
Our organization recently moved our website from one domain name to another. For whatever reason, we did not keep the old domain name and it expired ~6 weeks ago. Cut to today and we found out that someone registered the old domain and uploaded an old version of our website to it. Images, links, everything, presumably pulled from archive.org or something similar. Why? And help? [more inside]
posted by griseus at 7:13 PM PST - 8 comments
posted by griseus at 7:13 PM PST - 8 comments
Mood swings in my relationship
For six months I was happy and blissful at home, at peace with my private life. Suddenly I’m irritable, Type A (... -ish) and don’t feel like I have enough personal space. [more inside]
posted by stoneandstar at 5:15 PM PST - 17 comments
posted by stoneandstar at 5:15 PM PST - 17 comments
Best dumbphone options in Ontario
I want to ditch my smartphone and downshift to a dumbphone. I live in Ontario. Is there one option that’s obviously better? I’m coming at this from a position of zero knowledge. [more inside]
posted by fso at 4:17 PM PST - 7 comments
posted by fso at 4:17 PM PST - 7 comments
ALL (Wrestling Puns) IN
Can you think of wrestling puns to entertain my (30-something, academic, nerdy, understands-wrestling-is-ridiculous) boyfriend on a road trip to see some wrestlers? [more inside]
Seek quotation about god's surprise for us at death
Many years ago I read a quotation in a book by some woman - possibly a religious book. In it was a quotation from a rabbi that said something like, God provides a wonderful surprise after death--something like that. I have searched all over with all sorts of terms--can't find it. Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel seemed like a potential source but no luck. Wish I had written it down, but I was young and no one I knew was dying at the time. Any leads?
Can you identify this art?
Around 2015-2016 I saw an exhibition of altered photograph portraits at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Sydney. It consisted of photos of Royalty (i.e. Charles and Diana, the Queen) with black paint obscuring their faces. There was a whole wall of other politically prominent people - Putin, some American ones? who were also included in the series. No amount of googling or image searching is helping me to find out who the artist was. Do you have any idea who it might be? Imgur link below! [more inside]
posted by everydayanewday at 1:59 PM PST - 2 comments
posted by everydayanewday at 1:59 PM PST - 2 comments
What are the pros and cons of crossfit?
I was thinking about getting into crossfit, but I'm not sure about it. I've been told many times that it isn't exactly safe, however I am also not convinced that what I've been told isn't one sided. My friend seems to do crossfit just fine and he's never had much issue. I like many of its fitness aspects and the whole challenge thing, but frankly I don't really care for lifting an insane amount of weight, that looks and sounds particularly dangerous.
Does anyone have any opinions on crossfit?
posted by Braxis at 1:44 PM PST - 23 comments
posted by Braxis at 1:44 PM PST - 23 comments
How to hire remote workers for online tasks
I need to hire a "virtual office manager" for my business in NYC. Since the work can be done remotely, how could I hire someone in another state? [more inside]
How can we fight climate change?
Getting individual people to accept blame for the fucked-upedness of global capitalism is a manipulative tactic used by the gigantic corporations who are actually responsible for this stuff. If you are trapped in an inescapable system, don't get mad at yourself for failing to escape it. Blame the people who made it inescapable.
showbiz_liz made that wise comment earlier in the year in response to a different AskMe. But is it truly inescapable? [more inside]
Get Out
I need to sell my house and get rid of most of the stuff in it...fast. Like within a month. How can I do this? [more inside]
Help me find a task management solution!
I need a free, cloud-based solution for task and project management for my team of one. Can you help me find one that meets my specific unicorn requirements? [more inside]
posted by some chick at 11:27 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by some chick at 11:27 AM PST - 8 comments
The Devil You Know
Help me wrap my head around a serious (potential) career change. Details, pros and cons inside. [more inside]
posted by AlexandriaParis at 10:18 AM PST - 8 comments
posted by AlexandriaParis at 10:18 AM PST - 8 comments
What should I buy from the Asian supermarket?
I want to get some gochujang in a squeezy bottle (in the UK). The easiest way seems to be to buy it online from a specialist Asian grocer. I was looking at this one but it doesn’t have to be. But if I’m going to be paying more for delivery than for the actual goods I might as well put a couple more things in the basket.* Give me ideas! [more inside]
posted by Bloxworth Snout at 9:07 AM PST - 32 comments
posted by Bloxworth Snout at 9:07 AM PST - 32 comments
How to paint an open floorplan house?
Our kitchen, dining room and living room (plus a stairway) are all one room. We are having them painted and need ideas on how/if/where to stop one color and start another. [more inside]
Help me name my two tumblr blogs about dogs
What are some name suggestions for two dog related tumblrs?
The first one is for dogs in containers in the NYC subway. (e.g. NYC subway demands dogs be “enclosed in a container,” and dogs happily comply)
The second one is for dogs at protests. (e.g. Resistance Dogs Protest Trump - Anti-Trump Dog Pictures) [more inside]
help me eat v. 234348093843029823
No kitchen. No sink. No washing stuff. Only microwave, fridge/freezer, and paper plates/cutlery/cups. Please help us eat. [more inside]
posted by cacao at 8:43 AM PST - 20 comments
posted by cacao at 8:43 AM PST - 20 comments
URGENT: How can I de-weed myself in 5 days?
What are the strongest steps I can take to test negative for marijuana at a drug screen with a Monday 6 pm deadline? Details inside. [more inside]
Almost 6 weeks pregnant and spotting
I am newly pregnant with my first pregnancy, at 5 weeks 6 days and I have no idea what I'm doing! The internet tells me that spotting is pretty normal in the first trimester, but it is still causing me enormous anxiety... has this happened to you? What did you do about it? [more inside]
Need help tracking down a person to give them a video
Went to the great barrier reef in December. Made friends with a girl on the boat and made a deal with her. I'd shoot video of her with my phone (which was waterproof encased) and she'd shoot some of me. Lost the footage. Found it. Now I've lost HER. Looking for some help. [more inside]
Prosumer Vox Microphone Primarily for Spoken Word
I want to reward myself with a nice XLR microphone. Which? [more inside]
Specific plant recommendation for USDA Zone 9a
I need help figuring out what to plant in front of my house (USDA Zone 9a) [more inside]
Have you used a "flight claim" service successfully?
A few weeks ago my flight got cancelled and I had to stay overnight as it was one of the last flights out of the airport and they could not get me (or really anyone else on my flight) onto something else. I used a template email that I found online to claim compensation per EU law. I've just received a rejection for my claim citing "extraordinary circumstances". I'm still pissed off about it. Is it worth using one of those flight claim services where they escalate on your behalf? They say there is no fees involved (apart from what I assume is a percentage of whatever they are able to get) but I'm wary about stuff like this. [more inside]
Novels and Mysteries to Read on a Trip to Mexico
I am going to Mexico City and Cabo San Lucas (Baja Peninsula) for a couple weeks, and I would love to read books written and set in Mexico while I'm there! Please recommend some to me. [more inside]
Buying ladybugs?
I'm a novice gardener and have some zinnias and butterfly milkweed in my back yard to try and attract butterflies. Most of my milkweed has check aphids. Should I buy ladybugs from Amazon to eat them? [more inside]
posted by PussKillian at 6:40 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by PussKillian at 6:40 AM PST - 14 comments
Can you help me choose the first novel should write?
The time has come to knuckle down and write my novel. The problem is I have 3 in mind, can you help me choose a project? [more inside]
Seeking Pro Tip for Venice Film Festival
Hey all, this is a question about purchasing same-day tickets to screenings at the Venice Film Festival. [more inside]
Best news source for someone with anxiety and depression?
I stopped watching my local news several years ago because all it was, night after night, was mayhem and violence, death and destruction. They were selling bad news and only bad news, all the bad news, all the time. [more inside]
How much to charge for freelance software development in the UK
Question about what I should be charging software development clients in £. [more inside]
August 1
Parasite to my website
It looks like I have some sort of weirdness going on with my webpage.
pardon my lack of web understanding.
A customer said that when the searched for my site they got some sort of version of my page with all the pics replaced by adds for porn sites.
Added after my .com was a adults info.com/ tag that appears to be linked in some way to over a hundred misspelled versions of my page.
What can be done?
self-blocking on Messenger
I have a friend who REALLY doesn't want me to use FB Messenger to contact him. The best way for him to accomplish this goal is for him to block me on Messenger but not on FB. This would require him to install Messenger, which is his specific anti-FB bugaboo.
How can I block myself from messaging him on FBM? I am close to telling him to just block me already, which he would accurately interpret as an angry and frustrated response.
Better living through science (but not too much science)
What chemicals / additives to legitimately avoid? Online searching veers quickly into mama woo precious bodily fluids territory. Help me separate fiction from fact! [more inside]
Depression and expressing anger
I started a new medication recently that I believe is lowering my anger threshold. I'm looking for experience and thoughts on a specific perspective given to me by a relative. [more inside]
posted by snerson at 9:22 PM PST - 18 comments
posted by snerson at 9:22 PM PST - 18 comments
Looking for Aromatherapy Ideas!
I want to incorporate aromatherapy into my life more often, so I'm looking for ideas on how to do this. This could be suggestions of rituals, specific product recommendations, or anything else along these lines. I have some ideas listed inside, but could you add to it? [more inside]
Setting AC in 100 plus degree weather
If I set my AC to 84 when it's 105 degrees am I conserving the system or making it work harder because I'm allowing it to get too hot? [more inside]
Give me examples of ethical business policies
Following up on my previous "How do encourage my company to decline unethical business?" question, I'm in search of examples of concrete policies. [more inside]
Looking for books about caverns and cave systems
I've read several books recently that involved people going deep into caves or cavern systems, but only as side-plots. I want more! [more inside]
Brits of AskMefi, I need your accent expertise!
My friend and I (both Americans), have a bet regarding how British people would describe the specific English accent being spoken in this video.
British people (and please, only British people), watch the first 30 seconds or so of the interview and tell me the name that you would give to this accent. Cheers!
Making faith your own? Wrestling with evangelical upbringing
Complicated feelings and thoughts and confusion around Christian religion specifically. Mid 20s woman (other factors below fold) who is trying to figure out Christianity and faith after being raised and growing up in it. How exactly do I deal with guilt? How do I make my faith my own and not someone else's while sorting through the exhausting confusion? Personal stories appreciated. [more inside]
Do You Roller Skate?
This question is about skate rink culture and etiquette for a beginning skater. [more inside]
Help me find this bag
Costa del Sol at the end of September!
There's an EDM show in Costa del Sol that my husband is keen to go to. Since he rarely suggests travelling, I'm leaping on the opportunity.
But I have questions, and needs .. below the fold. [more inside]
Like if a mining drill actually was called a "Widowmaker" (c)
What are some types of industrial tools or equipment (preferably the kind used for mining, construction, or earth-moving) whose names come across as particularly violent or scary? It's for a story, so no brand names please. Nicknames won't work either - it needs to be a descriptive name for an actual tool that exists in real life. [more inside]
posted by egeanin at 12:57 PM PST - 38 comments
posted by egeanin at 12:57 PM PST - 38 comments
IPad puzzle games for a 5 year old?
My nearly 5 year old loves Contre Jour on her iPad. What other games are like that? Puzzle games with low emphasis on dexterity, beautiful graphics, nice music ideal.
How do I not let an upcoming, much feared plane flight ruin my life?
It drives me nuts that this fear is so prominent in my life that I've posted about it more than once and may again, but here we are. On the bright side, I've booked a flight. On the dim side, I'm going to spend two months flipping out about it. Help me not? [more inside]
posted by Smearcase at 11:46 AM PST - 29 comments
posted by Smearcase at 11:46 AM PST - 29 comments
The opposite of a romantic comedy
I still obsess over my ex from nearly 20 years ago; how do I stop? [more inside]
Help me understand my RURAL homeowner's association?
I live in an incredibly rural subdivision with an HOA. The HOA seems to exist only to pay for our sewer system and we've never been given any info about it other than here's your bill, pay it. I'm running the financial numbers they've handed out for last year and I'm seeing...issues. Help me parse this out? [more inside]
Need two houseplant identifications
I bought a few plants for the office, and while I was familiar with the spider plant I also bought these two, which had no identity tags on them and about which I couldn't get any verbal identification. [more inside]
posted by zadcat at 11:01 AM PST - 7 comments
posted by zadcat at 11:01 AM PST - 7 comments
DWAI and collateral damage on my new career. Potential solution.
I just graduated last may with a masters in Industrial/Organizational Psychology.
I also just graduated into my first criminal charge of DWAI and learned that doctor prescribed medication is not something the police approve of. Otherwise until now my record is clean.
So I know the DWAI charges are nothing I can change. I understand that I just have to deal and acknowledgge that this could affect my job search. So that's not what I'm asking about here. There's more. [more inside]
Tween shopping blues
What are stores or clothing styles that are best-suited for a plus-size tween? [more inside]
What to do with a four hour layover in Bangkok
Hi all I will be stuck at Bangkok airport for 4 hours in the afternoon later on this month. Can anyone tell me what there is to do at Bangkok airport? Is there enough time to go outside the airport (if so to where?) or should I just pack a good book?
Is this Russian saying Russian?
I'm trying to find out if any actual Russian has heard the supposedly Russian saying "The church is near, but the road is icy/slippery. The tavern is far, but I will walk carefully." [more inside]
posted by Tell Me No Lies at 10:04 AM PST - 10 comments
posted by Tell Me No Lies at 10:04 AM PST - 10 comments
What to do with 8-hour layover in Amsterdam Schiphol?
I have an 8-hour layover in Schiphol. Is there enough time for me to go into downtown Amsterdam for a nice meal and walk around downtown? [more inside]
posted by tickingclock at 8:53 AM PST - 14 comments
posted by tickingclock at 8:53 AM PST - 14 comments
Adopted cat with preexisting condition - now what?
My partner and I recently adopted our sweet Rosie from a local rescue group. We just found out that she has a health issue the rescue didn't take care of and didn't let us know about. What recourse do we have for getting it taken care of? Any suggestions for how to approach the rescue? [more inside]
why no rotavirus vaccine for adults?
This q has been asked previously, but still couldn't find answer to this question given the links in the mefi thread. CDC and Mayo, etc don't seem to have info on this either. [more inside]
posted by bitterkitten at 8:39 AM PST - 3 comments
posted by bitterkitten at 8:39 AM PST - 3 comments
What's it like being an artist's assistant?
I'm interviewing to be an assistant to an NYC-based artist. If you're familiar with artist assistant positions, can you share your thoughts with me? I don't necessarily want to be talked into or out of this job; I'm more looking for anecdotes and advice that will help me keep a cool head and make informed decisions during the interview process. Background and more specific questions inside! [more inside]
posted by brieche at 8:38 AM PST - 6 comments
posted by brieche at 8:38 AM PST - 6 comments
Where should we stay in eastern Sicily?
We're planning a trip to Sicily this winter. Should we stay in or near Catania, Siracusa, Avola, or Marina di Rigusa? (Or elsewhere nearby?) [more inside]
How to lawn seats at Ravinia?
My wife and I are seeing Ben Folds and Cake at the Ravinia Festival later this month. We have lawn seats. We've never seen anything at this venue; the last thing I attended with "lawn seats" was Ozzfest in the mid-90's and I doubt my experience there applies. How do we do this thing with style and grace? [more inside]
New boundaries in my new apartment (for same old mom)
Life circumstances conspired to make me move back in with my mother three years ago. Now I have my own apartment again and will be moving in the next few days. My new place is 20 minutes from hers, and I'm worried about the micromanaging and boundary crossing. She does not respect verbal boundaries at all, and I'm trying to figure out nonverbal ways to establish boundaries. [more inside]
posted by mermaidcafe at 7:27 AM PST - 20 comments
posted by mermaidcafe at 7:27 AM PST - 20 comments
Terrible ghost jokes
A guy on my project left. In a fit of comedic genius I turned his slack account into a ghost and posted a couple things. Now I need absolutely terrible ghost jokes. My team's morale is at stake. This is extremely important. [more inside]
posted by PuppetMcSockerson at 6:58 AM PST - 20 comments
posted by PuppetMcSockerson at 6:58 AM PST - 20 comments
Recommendations for (urban fantasy?) novels set in Edinburgh
I really enjoyed reading Neverwhere, Kraken, and The Laundry Files when I was living in London. Now I'm in Edinburgh, what should I read to get a sense of a hidden world just under the surface of familiar streets? [more inside]
Super cheesy song lyrics
I want to put together a super cheesy list of sentiments like "you are the wind beneath my wings" for my best friend, just to be silly and make her laugh. But I'm totally stuck! Help, HiveMind, help! What are some great, sometimes cringe-worthy lyrics that I can throw in? [more inside]
posted by cooker girl at 6:29 AM PST - 34 comments
posted by cooker girl at 6:29 AM PST - 34 comments