Try two teaspoons of sugar. :) I treat the stuff like hot chocolate. Yummy malty comforting sit by the fire with a good book beverage.
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 7:13 AM on May 5, 2008

I agree with i_cola's quick n dirty calculation. Everything costs the same, but in pounds.
Oh and salaries are half as much. When I moved here and I essentally got a 50% salary decrease for the exact same job. Oh and income tax is higher. Fun huh?

I'm also still getting my head around council tax. It varies hugely and is not paid monthly which totally messed up my old methods of budgeting. The easiest solution for me was to find a place that included... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 9:59 AM on April 3, 2008 marked best answer

OMG generichuman that is such a good tip. That concept was utterly foreign to me when I first moved here and it still drives me nuts. You don't actually ever pay weekly and you will probably have to sign at least a 6 month lease with at least a month's notice to leave so the whole weekly rent notice is just misleading and I.don't.get.it.

Also when looking for a flat, there is huge debates about using or not using estate agents, which you may also be unfamiliar with (I... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 12:04 PM on April 3, 2008

I have interviewed before and here are my top tips (in addition to some excellent advice above):

BE SPECIFIC - There is nothing more annoying that someone answering all my questions with hypotheticals. If they ask you a situation question ("What would you do if you had to work with a difficult person?") make your answer as concrete as possible from direct experience. I don't care what you would do, I want to know what you actually did.... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 10:26 AM on April 3, 2008 marked best answer

Nthing everyone else with the added caution that from personal experience, I can tell you that they won't give up easily. It's been over 10 years since I've lived in my hometown (San Francisco,) and I still get teased about "When are you moving back?"

I think canine's response is great: polite, non-apologetic, firm and mature. The best way to "justify" it if necessary, is to have a fantastic life wherever you choose to live.
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 7:52 AM on April 1, 2008

I have tried this soy sauce and sprite marinade and can attest that it is divine.
After marinating I cooked the chicken by creating little aluminum foil packets:
- Create a squarish "basket" using aluminum foil, big enough to hold your chicken breast and about 2 inches high.
- Line bottom with chopped asparagus, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes (this is what I used, obviously you can go nuts with veg)
- Bake at 200 celsius for 15-20... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 4:17 AM on March 31, 2008

I had a similar dilemma and one "tip" is that what worked for me ended up being a pair of skinny "capri" cut jeans. Not only do I have a similar shape to your fiance, but I'm short to boot. I have found normal skinny jeans are just too damned long and they bunched up over the top of the boots. The capri cut jeans (had some lycra in them for maximum hug and comfort) work great and they'll work through the upcoming warmer months as well.

I don't know... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 1:10 AM on March 31, 2008

jtron: If you Google "Celtic Rangers rivalry" you will probably get a ton of information on the historically relgious aspect of those teams. I found it completely fascinating to learn about (although somewhat sickening).

Anecdotally, since moving to the UK, I have learned about these common stereotypes of football fans:
Manchester United fans aren't from Manchester, most likely London.
Foreigners like Arsenal.
Millwall fans... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 4:29 AM on March 26, 2008

Now that I don't have a dryer, I hang dry things in my room and it has been commented that my room smells like fresh laundry, which I love. And since I do laundry every two weeks the scent is pretty constant.

On that note, I also used to stash used dryer sheets in my drawers too. Easy enough to replace when the next batch of dry linen is put away. Sandalwood sounds like a lovely idea but I think it depends on how much you like that smell. I find it very manly and pleasant.
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 4:09 AM on March 26, 2008

mdonley spoke up for Latvia, but I have to say I think those are pretty spot on for the UK as well.

More generally, men here seem to be more comfortable expressing themselves through fashion and grooming. Hair styles are more elaborate, man bags are common, jeans are tighter, trousers are better fitted, shirts are more graphic and aren't limited to t-shirts, and you'll almost never see a baseball cap.

As one lone data point, I went back to the... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 6:26 AM on March 25, 2008

Nthing the woolite on delicate cycle. It's enough acrylic to wash and not enough wool to worry about it. Absolutely no dryer! The spin cycle should wring it out sufficiently. Lay flat on some towels and don't hang until completely dry.
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 2:37 AM on February 27, 2008

bleh I hate pantyhose too. I Nth opaque tights. They're quite fashionable lately so you should be able to find a variety of colors and thicknesses to suit you. In the beginning I recommend a pair of black, brown, and dark grey and one of them with a fine rib texture to break it up. If you live in a cold area look into cashmere blends, yum!
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 1:29 AM on February 4, 2008

You seem set on jewelry, but if you are tempted to throw in a little something extra, I think a certificate for a manicure/pedicure session would be great! If she hasn't done it before, I would suggest she get a french manicure as it's simpler and more natural looking than being overwhelmed by fire engine reds, shocking pinks and new rave blues. A "spa mani-pedi" which takes place in one of those heated, massage chairs will run about $20-30 at your neighborhood manicure place.... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 1:19 AM on February 4, 2008

Whip Up recently had tutorials on making soap for a "Craft with Kids" month thing:

Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 1:13 AM on February 4, 2008

I asked this question about 2 week disposables, got similar advice as those asked above, and my eyes are fine.
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 4:04 AM on February 1, 2008

My university (UCSD) had a full day tour that had the two groups mixed and then separated for a few hours.
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 1:57 AM on January 22, 2008

Most weeks I cook 5 dinners (for 2-3 people). I really like to cook and make things more from scratch than sauce out of a jar kind of meals. And I try to buy a lot of produce and not too much chicken, which is getting really expensive. We've been keeping a casual calculations on cost per meal and it's been less than £5 a person, per meal. Weekend "small meals" are part of the grocery tab so basically included in the £5.

(Don't convert that to dollars,... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 8:53 AM on January 21, 2008

Golden Compass again. I read a recent article somewhere written by Philip Pullman explaining the difference between a "novel" and a "story" and how a movie can only bring out the story but you'll never get the elements of the novel right.

I agree somewhat, you can never replace a novel with a movie. But to me it read like he was making a blanket statement that novel based movies will always be inherently inferior and that The Golden Compass the... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 6:42 AM on January 8, 2008

I'm 28 in a similar situation (committed relationship for over a year, "dating hell" prior to that). The thing is, I don't share 90% of it with my boyfriend and I think this is a good thing. He knows that children are definitely in our future, and pretty soon after marriage, but all the cooing and freaking out mumbo jumbo in my head I keep it there. I think it's normal!

I think what also helps pull it back is as others have mentioned, seeing the downside of... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 2:38 AM on December 20, 2007

I grew up in San Francisco and then moved down to SD for college and stayed for 8 years (with a 6 month stint in LA). I've only been to Seattle once for a weekend with an ex.

Based on your criteria, I think you would have a lovely time in San Diego. It was great for 8 years although I don't know if I'd live there again (not that I'd cross it off either).

- As others have stated, the weather is awesome... but only if you don't mind that it's... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 1:52 AM on December 19, 2007

I use one of those portable clothes racks. You can get hanging shelves for pants and tshirts. If you get one with a cover you can reduce the unsightliness.... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 2:20 AM on December 18, 2007

Just looked this up to see what I was in for (my 10th is this Saturday) and wanted to say I'm happy you went!
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 5:19 AM on December 17, 2007

I agree you probably don't want scads of sunflower oil. Just coat the pan. I've never used sunflower oil, just veg oil so maybe that matters as well? Also, is the oil hot before you put the rice in? My usual MO is to add the rice after all the other ingredients are cooked.

I've had success with basmati so I don't think that matters. As for rinsing, I usually put the rice in a sieve and run a tap through it for about a minute or two.
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 5:03 AM on December 17, 2007

I adored Juniper while I was growing up. Wise women, mother-goddess worshipping, etc... but not blatant or offensive. A bit suspenseful for a 6 yr. old but I would definitely hang onto it for a future birthday.
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 1:55 AM on December 13, 2007

I moved from America to England a year ago and I like the panel shows here (I skyplus Mock the Week, and I'll watch QI and Nevermind the Buzzcocks if it's on) and I think part of why something like Mock the Week wouldn't fly in the states is because it focuses on a lot of political and world events. I just don't see that taking off in an MTV/celeb/reality obsessed culture. I'd love to be proved wrong since the popularity of The Daily Show suggests that it *could* work. (Ooh a panel quiz show... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 2:20 AM on December 7, 2007

Just thought it wouldn't hurt to chime in (even this late in the thread) that I also feel this way. I am in a serious relationship and I still feel a bit isolated. I adore my boyfriend and love spending time with him, but since I've moved to a new country it's been difficult to re-establish a circle of friends like I used to have at home. Thanks for posting this question.
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 6:25 AM on December 5, 2007

third universal_qlc.
The thing I find annoying about Facebook is the artifical-ness of the entire system. It will be very easy for you to convince her that this friend is no one to you because she will probably figure this out herself when she has to also friend everyone she's ever met at a random house party 5 years ago because it would be "so mean" to decline. Basically, it will be easy to lie to her if your conscience will let you.
Of course, if your... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 2:36 AM on November 13, 2007

Ok should hit preview.
So there are some deeper issues that you are aware of in the relationship, and I'm glad to hear you are addressing them. In light of the new comments, I think datacenter has the "best method" for what you're asking for but I fear (and you probably know this) it's only delaying the crap hitting the fan.
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 2:39 AM on November 13, 2007

If there's a wall that runs from the first floor to the loft, could you install a series of shelves that go in a step-like manner? Both functional and kinda cool looking.

Like this
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 1:22 AM on October 25, 2007 marked best answer

Patron again. I have had bad experiences with tequila in college (who hasn't?) but Patron? Patron I like.

Weird combo to try: Cut limes into wedges. Pour some sugar and freeze dried coffee (like Taster's choice) onto a plate (not mixed). Dip one side of the lime into the sugar, dip the other side in the coffee. Shoot the Patron and suck the lime. Surprisingly delicio!
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 2:07 AM on October 24, 2007

I can't help too much about income (my job paid for my visa) but I moved to Southeast England from California about a year ago.

Where in England are you moving to? Surprisingly, this will make a huge difference in what to expect. "London" is a whole 'nother story compared to just "45 minutes from London". That said, here are some things I tell people when they ask about my transition here:

- Get over the currency conversion... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 11:10 AM on October 22, 2007

Some things that have resulted in increasing my joy in cooking:

- Good tools. Find the best knife that you can afford. But don't buy that one, save for a bit and get the one that's just a bit nicer. Same for one non-stick pan, one large pot (for stews and pasta), and chopping board. I find that these things help make the whole process easier and you can concentrate on the food rather than struggling with the tools. (Plus, getting a new toy always gets me excited to... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 2:26 AM on October 22, 2007

I agree with padraigin that you sound more hourglass to me ("biggish boobs") but at any rate, with either of these body shapes I think winter is actually a good season to wear clothes that embrace your curves since skinnier girls tend to get lost in the bulky fabrics.

A well fitting coat is a must. Not a peacoat which will be too boxy, but maybe something like this that nips in at the waist. Just make sure the bottom half does not gape open, which I have... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 1:23 AM on October 19, 2007

Feist: Mushaboom
It's fun, light, and she has a beautiful voice.
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 1:17 AM on October 17, 2007

I do not have the extension to minimize to the system tray.
The only extensions I have are IE view and Sage... neither of which has anything to do with minimizing, but I'll try disabling them to see if that does the trick. If it that does work I'll update this AskMe but if I don't it means that didn't work. :)
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 7:10 AM on October 12, 2007

I have a gig of RAM. I'm usually running Visio and a couple of Office programs like Outlook and Powerpoint. Combined with these is Firefox enough of a memory hog to credit tommasz guess?
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 8:50 AM on October 12, 2007

Ok, just came back to my desk. I have a chat client, MS Outlook and Firefox open and Firefox is gone. 120MB! Crikey! I was really hoping someone knew of a fix but I guess this will need to go down in the annals of unanswered AskMes for now.
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 2:02 AM on October 15, 2007

I really like the Natural History Museum.

TIP: Make sure you go through the main entrance. I accidentally went through the back entrance and just lost the grandeur of the dinosaur skeleton greeting you at the front.
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 4:52 AM on October 12, 2007

Ditto again on don't hang your sweaters. Besides the shoulder nipples, the weight of the sleeves and body will stretch out your shoulders and make it all wonky fitting. If you are lacking drawer space, I suggest using hanging shelves like these. As a bonus you can probably fit more clothes on your clothes rack. Also, you can use the shelves to hold other things like belts.... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 1:45 AM on October 12, 2007

Food blogs I read regularly that may provide what you're looking for:

Simply recipes - Not vegetarian, but I've returned to her site time and time again. She also supplies her recipes in a variety of printable formats

Fat free Vegan Kitchen

28 Cooks
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 4:50 AM on September 19, 2007

I have been using Jergen's Smoothing lotion for a couple of years now and I'm hooked.
Non greasy - check
Clean scent - check

It does have a bit of alpha-hydroxy in it (which I think is what reduces the flakiness of dry skin) but I have pretty sensitive skin and haven't had an issue with it at all.
It should also be pretty easy to get a very small bottle so that you can try it out before committing to the huge bottle that I get every 6... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 2:16 AM on September 17, 2007

I got a Powerbook about 3 years ago and never looked back. I've hardly taken it out of the apartment, but there have been definite advantages:
- I live in flats/apartments most of the time so space is always a concern. I usually don't have a desk and a laptop conveniently sits anywhere.
- I moved quite frequently. Loooved that i could just close the laptop and toss it in a bag and not mess with cables and crap.
- I've rarely thought about even needing a mouse,... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 1:43 AM on September 14, 2007

My friend's sister was named Catarina but their grandmother (Korean) couldn't pronounce it and ended up calling her "gahk-du-gee", which is basically a Korean picked daikon dish.
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 6:33 AM on September 11, 2007

I know Lamb's Pride and Cascade 220 will always be on these sorts of list, but it must be said I do not like either of those next to my skin at all. That said, they are terrific for felting (and lots of felted projects make excellent gifts).

Along with Wool-Ease, Cotton Ease should also get a mention. They temporarily discontinued it, but now it's back and better than ever with more adult colors (they used to carry bubblegum pinks and slushee blues). I think both are... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 9:11 AM on September 10, 2007

haha, ok now that I've posted I see I'm actually thirding elann ;)
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 9:13 AM on September 10, 2007

I also want to second Berroco Ultra Alpaca. I haven't knit any sweaters with it but I have made bags and such and love it. Besides the normal colors, they also have a lovely heathered range.

Also seconding looking into lace knitting. You can get a ton of mileage out of a single skein of lace weight, since lace knitting is, in essence, made of holes. ;) It's a nice way to make a scarf, which tends to run very long and very monotonous as far as knitting projects go.... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 3:42 PM on September 10, 2007

Two documentaries that my Comm major friend did that I found interesting:

1) Campus urban legends: She interviewed students about urban legends they hear about the school and also tried to get to the bottom of some of the more interesting ones. My campus had lots of random artsy things as well as a steam tunnel that was rich for wild stories. The steam tunnel one was rumored to be a way for police to quickly traverse the campus in case of a riot. (The idea of San... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 1:39 AM on September 6, 2007

Shoes that I have found to be surprisingly versatile and necessary over many years of collecting and pruning:

- Black patent leather mary janes with a thicker 3in heel (got mine from Target!)
- Havaina flip flops (I'm from San Diego so YMMV)
- Matte black pumps (kinda pointy) with a 3" heel (Steven by Steve Madden. SOOOOO comfy I swear I can run down a hall with them and they're "office sexy" without being slutty.)
-... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 2:12 AM on August 28, 2007

Background info:
I grew up in SF but moved to SoCal when I was 18. I lived and worked in LA for about a year but have also visited extensively when not living there. I've visited Boston once.

My views of SF: I love my hometown. The rolling hills, the fog followed by crisp sunshine, the park and downtown within a Muni ride away. It is so culturally diverse, and if you're a foodie, you can't get much better than SF. There's a lot of pockets of SF that... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 12:58 AM on August 22, 2007 marked best answer

When I was little my mom and I, about once a month, would sit for hours to peel and mash up garlic (I'm talking pounds of garlic here). She used a plastic mortar and wooden pestle (I think commonly found in Korean markets). She kept the mashed garlic in spaghetti jars in the fridge (with a plastic wrap between the jar lip and the lid) and would use it everywhere. She did not use any oil and I did not die from botulism.
posted to Ask Metafilter by like_neon at 2:22 AM on August 21, 2007