I carried a lunch box the size of a small television.

This made me laugh. I was known on campus as the girl with the lunch briefcase.
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 4:05 PM on July 23, 2008

Thank you all for great suggestions! Please keep them coming. I need all the encouragement I can get.
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 10:37 PM on July 23, 2008

Uhh...law school's three years and the "making bank" guarantee is just not there. Ask my friends at the state attorney's office who just clipped $55K this year. And I'd be really interested in these firms that offer daycare???

The nursing suggestion sounds right up your alley. You can work as little or as much as you want. One of my law school classmates was an ER nurse and made $90K before law school and was a single mom to boot.
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 4:28 PM on July 23, 2008

It most likely is in the walls. When I lived in Florida, I had a "citrus" rat die in the wall of my bedroom. (That was my landlord's way of somehow making me feel better that I had a dead rat in the wall)

We got an exterminator to come in to take it out but the problem was an opening in the roof so I don't recall much destruction. If you don't find it, you might call a local exterminator, tell him/her what you suspect and ask what the general procedure is for... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 9:15 AM on July 23, 2008

Where are you staying? This is a big (very big) valley.
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 2:29 PM on July 21, 2008

I can't vouch for these folks but they offer free pick-up and delivery.
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 2:32 PM on July 21, 2008

3rding the really effective, reasonably priced acne.org regimen. It is effective and gentle.
I never had much luck with Retin A. It was too harsh for my skin but I do like over-the-counter retinols. My skin requires chemical exfoliation (Please, if you have active pimples DO NOT overexfoliate. It will just make your skin worse.)

If I were you and were unable to afford a dermatologist, I would look at the acne.org regimen and once you're clear, look at adding... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 1:52 PM on July 19, 2008

I want to second the Pema Chodron book and quote something she wrote in an article she wrote a few years back. I think it was called something like, "10 Bad Things I'm Thankful For." One of the things she listed was that she was thankful for her "plainness." She didn't feel she was beautiful in any way. Just a regular-looking woman. But she was thankful for that because it made her realize that when a man said he loved her, he meant he loved her and that... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 2:20 PM on July 10, 2008

Ojon! This stuff is, as my sister would say, the truth!
The restorative treatment is priced so high it's silly but it works. I'm black with coarse, dry hair but when I use just a small amount of that conditioner, I just can't keep my hands out of my hair. And it smells fantastic.
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 12:41 PM on July 7, 2008

But honestly, 4th tier school + poor law school grades + no summer job is not a good equation for success as a lawyer post-law school.

I'm sorry but this is just bull.
Sure, it will be an uphill battle and the poster is right to encourage you to work harder 2d year but I know folks who graduated literally last in their class and still managed to have a successful career. At least one person I know was academically... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 4:30 PM on July 2, 2008

Have you bought a car recently or did the warranty on your current vehicle expire? My coworkers and I have been plagued by the dreaded "time to renew your warranty" calls for about three months now ... All of us drive Toyotas. I'm not sure if that has anything to do with it.

There's also a spate of real estate-related calls too...all from different numbers.
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 11:46 AM on July 2, 2008

I thought pre-nups were unneccessary and unromantic and a throwback to times when women were thought of as property, etc ... until I went to law school and read all those lovely family law cases where people got really, really (really) screwed by someone whom they thought loved them.

It's nasty and too practical a discussion for a time when you're supposed to be feeling are warm and fuzzy ... but think about protecting your interests too. This is not... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 3:27 PM on July 1, 2008

Another vote for ignoring it. Do you have some sort of homeowner's association that dictates what color the shed is allowed to be? If not, tell her to take up a hobby and stop spending all day looking out of her window. People really do have some nerve. She has not stopped by once in four years to introduce herself and her first interaction is to tell you what color to paint a shed on your property? I know what I'd tell her ... but then again, I'm from Brooklyn. Our rules are different.
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 2:09 PM on June 30, 2008

Billy Joel's "Goodnight Saigon"
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 10:21 PM on June 29, 2008 marked best answer

Thanks all. I know about the glut of condo conversions available in the Valley and I've seen some great deals. A development that was selling places for $500K last year just held an auction with those same units starting at $198K. I'm a natural skeptic though so I thought I'd ask some folks who might be more knowledgeable than I am.
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 9:44 AM on June 27, 2008

Aquanut:
I did realize that after I saw the location. It's not a great part of town but it's certainly not bad. Right near the Biltmore and about 10 minutes into Old Town Scottsdale.

The tiny part is what kept me from seriously considering it, along with that part about "credit repair" which I don't need.
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 2:27 PM on June 27, 2008

Most of the old black-owned newspapers (some dating back to the early 1900s) are long gone. They just couldn't get the advertising dollars. A few communities still have papers (The Amsterdam News comes to mind) but since they don't pay well, they end up with college kids looking for experience and who unfortunately just don't write very well or have the skills to conduct a good interview .... and those papers certainly can't afford to go online.

Your best bet is to... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 8:56 AM on June 27, 2008

You might also take a look at this guy's blog. He was featured on Talk of the Nation a few weeks back.
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 10:02 AM on June 27, 2008

Any Barry Manilow or Neil Diamond. No, I'm not kidding.
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 9:33 AM on June 25, 2008

I think everyone citing that "bad guys get the most girls" article is missing the point that they're talking about college-age girls in that article, not women.

By the time you're past college age, hopefully you've outgrown the bad boy phase (Note to self: Outgrow the badboy phase.)

Anyway, nthing what most have said about your friend sounding great on paper. That still doesn't say whether he's... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 9:40 AM on June 24, 2008

Stay.
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 12:13 PM on June 23, 2008

I'm trying very hard to empathize here but it's tough.

I haven't spoken to my own father in four years and while he was involved in my life as a child, it was not to the extent that it should have been.

I've spent many years in therapy ... not to mention languishing in a host of bad relationships ... trying to satiate my daddy hunger. Please don't put your child, your flesh and blood, boy or girl, through this.

There... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 9:39 AM on June 23, 2008

Alice Smith
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 11:40 AM on June 22, 2008

One of my absolute favorite notes from a coworker, after I had resigned. It simply said "Quitter!"
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 3:05 PM on June 19, 2008

You might try Pita Jungle. Don't let the name fool you. The menu is extensive and includes many veggie-only, Middle Eastern-inspired and seafood dishes. The ingredients (especially the really filling salads) are awfully fresh and very tasty. There are several locations in the city but it's not anything like chain-style fare you'd find other places. I like the location at 36th and Indian School best. It's casual, but a nice, cozy atmosphere.
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 10:53 PM on June 17, 2008

Previously.
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 10:49 AM on June 17, 2008

Also, since you will be in north Miami, I'll second the suggestion to check out downtown Hollywood. If I ever moved back to South Florida, Hollywood would be the only place I'd live. You can have breakfast at the Coral Rose for under $8 per person and then spend the day strolling the Broadwalk (not Boardwalk) at the beach and have $1 beers.
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 10:52 AM on June 17, 2008

Hey. I'm studying for the bar, have a job, and am planning a trip to Bangkok (though not for a month) and I really can't afford it because I'm trying to buy a house but I'm going anyway....or planning to.

When you start working, you'll likely not have a month off for anything for many, many years. Go. You have my permission.

Happy studying and good luck on the bar.
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 1:22 PM on June 16, 2008

A little panic. I used to get that too ... mostly when I knew I could only nap for a finite period and was worried about waking up in time ... and when I lived with the boring man I would get them too...Sort of a panic that said, "Oh no. This really is your life. It wasn't a dream."

It helped me to have at least half an hour to nap and to set my alarm to something semi-soothing if possible (harder when you're using your cell phone as an alarm clock.)
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 10:47 AM on June 16, 2008

All I have to add is that even unattractive, overweight, impotent men (the first, likely all in your mind, the last two things fixable with some work) deserve to have some feelings of passion and desire for their partner. Sure, that feeling waxes and wanes but it seems you've never had this .... and it's so amazing when you actually have that.

What makes you think you are any less worthy of real happiness in your life because you're not ... uh who's hot now? Is it still... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 8:57 AM on June 16, 2008

This doesn't sound like the "The One" (whatever that is) at all. You don't sound like you like her much and believe me, when all is said and done, ya gotta like each other. Get out now now.
That whole "we share the same morals" thing won't get you much mileage without something else to accompany it and it doesn't sound like the two of you have it.
Break ups are messy. That's life.

.....Or what trythetilapia said.
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 9:58 PM on June 14, 2008

With the afrocuban and caribbean population being as large as it is in Miami, you'll find plenty of shows. Your best bet is to pick up bulletins advertising concerts at local venues like:
Jazid
Hoy Como Ayer (also called "The Nostalgia Cafe")
O'Hara's (mostly local jazz acts but they usually feature a range of styles at least once a month. The one in Hollywood is larger and more diverse and was my favorite place to hang out in South Florida.)... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 3:45 PM on June 13, 2008

Cab it to Versailles for Cuban food. It's 15-20 minutes from the airport. I once took a date there and after he'd had a sip of their cafe con leche, he proclaimed "Now that's sexy."

If you're hungry for breakfast, you can try Le Bouchon du Grove, easily the best breakfast I've ever had and very authentic. The Front Porch on South Beach is a close second. Awesome french toast and great for people-watching.

And bring... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 1:47 PM on June 12, 2008

Oh and for neighborhoods, I would definitely do Coral Gables and stop by The Biltmore Hotel. The Gables is a wonderfully picteresque neighborhood with gorgeous Spanish-style homes and century-old trees. Very near to both the airport and Little Havana, where you should have lunch ... at Versailles. Remember, you heard it here first.
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 1:51 PM on June 12, 2008

One last thing and then I'll shut up: Miami International Airport is perhaps the worst airport in the country. If you fail the competency exam to be the village idiot, you can get a job at MIA. Please, please allow yourselves extra time to get your flight out.
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 1:58 PM on June 12, 2008

Eat: Everyone loves The Van Dyke because it's right on Lincoln Road where all the good shops are. If you eat there (it's decent) you'll have your fill of other shops along Lincoln Road. The Van Dyke serves basic Americana and you can generally find something decent there. (They actually make a nice pizza.) Any cabbie can take you there.

Actually, now that I think about it, Lincoln Road is probably a good bet for you. There are galleries along the route (it's not open to... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 4:03 PM on June 12, 2008

Here's a link to the Lincoln Road site.
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 4:05 PM on June 12, 2008

Paralegal. You can get a certificate in 9 to 12 months and the career is in extremely high demand...moreso than, regrettably enough, the demand for attorneys.
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 3:44 PM on June 12, 2008

Depending on the type of makeup you wear, it will totally rub off. If I wear a cream-to-powder or stick foundation, my poor little white guy suddenly has a brown nose.

I switched to a liquid, mix it with a little moisturizer to thin it out a bit (cause RuPaul is hot and all but I don't want to look like him) and set it with a loose (not pressed) powder. Voila, no brown-nosed white man.

I've also heard people say that Revlon ColorStay never... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 11:59 AM on June 12, 2008

What you need is 12 Weeks to Weight Loss.

It's a directed exercise program. You sign up for this and each week you get an email telling you exactly what exercises to do each day. There's a beginner, intermediate and advanced level. If you're anything like me, you need structure. If you do this program, you'll tone up those loose areas and easily drop some weight.

And let me join the chorus of congratulatory messages. What you did is no small feat.... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 8:41 AM on June 12, 2008

Dresses are about all I wear in the summer ... especially since I've spent the last decade in climates too hot for anything more.

Is there a TJMaxx or Marshall's near you? If so, get there ... fast. Their dress selection this year is better than in past years. Also, Ross has a dress bonanza this year. I generally don't like the store for anything more than amazing housewares but their buyer snagged some great cute, cheap (and admittedly, some are too... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 3:44 PM on June 11, 2008

Man those dresses are hot! Guess I have to get that stimulus check out of the savings account. Thanks, shesbookish!
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 4:12 PM on June 11, 2008

I don't know much about the price but some friends stayed at this place in Bisbee, where all the hotel "rooms" are actually renovated Airstream trailers, and they raved about how fun and kitschy it was. (It's the first picture/story on the page).
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 5:03 PM on June 10, 2008

I speak almost no French (I studied Spanish in school.) I'm seconding you're a kitty!. Just make an effort to at least greet people with a pleasant "Bon jour" and a smile and then apologize for being a typical American who doesn't speak more than one language, as many in Europe do.
I found this approach resulted in many pleasant interactions with the French. Enjoy yourself. My only other advice is to eat lots of chocolate croissants first thing in the morning. This is far... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 5:00 PM on June 10, 2008

The last time I tried to go to Pizziera Bianco, the rude little hostess asked for my name and then said, "OK, the wait is about four hours right now." She said that with a straight face.

I love Postino's for a great salad, glass of wine and that chocolate molten lava cake.

Some other faves are:

Delux on 32d Street and Camelback. It's a trendy little spot but they serve the best hamburger I've ever had along... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 9:37 AM on June 10, 2008

I was only surprised at the four hour wait because they weren't even going to be open for another four hours. I went once. I thought the pizza was meh. I don't know what everyone raves about ... But I'm from Brooklyn so I've had more than my share of first-rate pies.

I actually think that locally, Spinato's makes a better pizza as does the local outpost of Grimaldi's in Scottsdale.
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 12:43 PM on June 10, 2008

How about some Zap Mama or Les Nubians?

Sorry about the breakup. The good thing is, at some point, the yucky feelings actually go away. No, really, it's true.
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 2:05 PM on June 7, 2008 marked best answer

I still have the funky shoes I bought in Hackescher Markt square. Train stops right at the market and runs frequently. Even someone as directionally challenged as I am had no troubles navigating the rails in Berlin.
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 1:03 PM on June 6, 2008 marked best answer

I feel your pain. I moved to Phoenix to work with my parents and it was a disaster in too many ways to go into here. I was afraid our relationship (already pretty bad) wasn't going to survive me resigning ... but it did and I'm so much healthier and happier for it.

As for the money for your wedding? You and the guy need to each get two jobs, save some money and pay for it yourselves. All money comes with strings attached and when you have difficult parents, those... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 11:35 AM on June 5, 2008

Just stopping in to agree with jasper411. So much of this post resonated with me but particularly poignant was that very clear daddy hunger .... I know it all too well. Counseling is the only thing that helps quell it but it never goes away ... at least it didn't for me.
posted to Ask Metafilter by notjustfoxybrown at 12:51 PM on June 5, 2008