United Nations Volunteers.
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 7:51 AM on May 4, 2008

My mom's book club created a schedule that assigned a host, a discussion leader and someone to research the author for every meeting. The roles rotated every month. It seemed to make it easier for one person to have questions prepared and discussions about the book can be combined with talking about the author.
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 3:12 PM on April 30, 2008

Deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush. Sometimes I carry a clean pair of underwear too.
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 8:16 PM on April 22, 2008

I forgot to add condoms to my list, don't know if that one got mentioned yet.
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 4:57 PM on April 27, 2008

Harvey is 105 minutes - is that pushing it?
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 12:03 PM on April 17, 2008

2nding Missouri and Getty Museum gardens. There is also a lovely arboretum at UC Santa Cruz.
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 5:57 AM on April 15, 2008

If you could have a super-power, what would you choose?

Riddle: What is greater than God, more evil than the Devil, the rich need it, the poor have it and if you eat it you die?

Developmental psychologist Jean Piaget developed a set of questions (that I can't seem to find right now) that reveal the stage of development in children. These would be cool.

(collaborated with JimmyJames)
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 3:39 PM on April 11, 2008

2nding Aqua Verde. There is also an excellent falafel place just off the Ave or 42nd or 43rd Street. I don't know the name but you order from a window.
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 8:25 PM on April 10, 2008

Putting in a vote for the Grand Canyon. I spent a few days at the Havasupai camping grounds in the canyon and it is stunningly beautiful. We spent the rest of the week canoeing down the Colorado River, which was also amazing if you want to make that a trip. If you start at the Hoover Dam there are natural hot springs all along the river that you can stop at and soak.
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 3:49 PM on April 10, 2008

I don't think there is a standard recipe for moving on. Everyone does it differently. Your reactions to his indecisiveness are very logical and comprehensively address all his issues. Keep doing what you're doing and you'll get over him eventually.
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 3:58 AM on April 10, 2008

Instead of buying him something, maybe she could plan an "awesome and meaningful" thing for them to do - dinner out at a nice place, a short road trip or something special they can enjoy together.
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 1:29 AM on April 10, 2008

Goodbye Earl! by the Dixie Chicks is a song about poisoning a man and dumping the body in a lake.
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 11:27 AM on April 9, 2008

Haven't tried Smash Bros on my Wii, but I've been playing a lot of Mario Galaxy lately. Is that they same kind of disc?
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 1:10 PM on April 8, 2008

Thank you! Great advice from everyone.
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 10:02 PM on April 8, 2008

Do you read the newspaper? Most major newspapers have a pretty good op/e section. The New York Times is my favorite.
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 12:34 PM on April 8, 2008

My cakes have fallen when I beat them for too long. Maybe she could try a minute and a half. Or, if she's using an electric mixer, on a lower speed.
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 12:29 PM on April 8, 2008

My uncle performed the service at my cousin's wedding. He sat down with each of them alone and talked with them about their relationship, then at the ceremony he chose three words or phrases and said, "You've described him as a friend, life-partner, etc." I thought it was a really nice touch to hear what the couple had to say about each other without the lengthy personalized vows.
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 2:24 PM on April 7, 2008

The Alzheimer's Association has a 24-hour helpline (1.800.272.3900). They really know what they are doing and might be able to give some good advice and resources in your area.
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 2:16 PM on April 7, 2008

a) You're not a selfish asshole for not wanting to live with someone you don't like. It's your place and you have an equal say in who lives there. Your roommate will probably understand if you speak to him honestly. You don't have to say, "Your friend is a tool and you're an idiot for associating with him," just say that you're uncomfortable with the idea of living with the guy.
b) Bad idea.
c) Why give up your current living situation if you are happy?... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 2:30 PM on April 5, 2008

I just had a great family vacation in Tulum, Mexico. It's a beautiful beach town south of Cancun with some fancy hotels but also a few hostels and some great restaurants that are cheap and feel authentically Mexican. There is also an incredible nature reserve and some Mayan ruins easily accessible by bus, taxi or rented car. Go quickly though because the resorts are closing in on the beach property. In a few years it won't be the same.... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 3:47 PM on April 3, 2008

I think the solution is to donate money so they have the resources to fix the problem.
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 3:37 PM on April 3, 2008

The point of dating is to see if you will be compatible as a couple. Go on a few dates and see if it works. If so, great; if not, hopefully you'll figure that out early on.

Let's cut to the heart of the matter: You want to get her in bed.
Totally unfair assumption, Inspector.Gadget.
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 3:34 PM on April 3, 2008

I think communication is important. If you feel yourself starting to get annoyed with her, gently ask for some space. You can even come up with a code word or phrase that means one of you needs alone-time. She can use that time to rest or explore on her own.
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 2:17 AM on April 3, 2008

nthing appetizers and drinks.

My mom went to the caucuses in WA and while she was there, every voter was given an opportunity to stand up and say why they were voting for whichever candidate. I'm guessing that everyone there will feel pretty strongly about Obama and will have a lot to say. If things start to get dull, you could stand up and make a toast, thank everyone for coming, how important this is, etc, then invite others to say something about Obama or toast to... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 11:54 AM on March 29, 2008

An Evening of a Thousand Scowls is a comedy show happening this Saturday the 29th in the Mission district to raise money for 826 Valencia, a nonprofit tutoring center started by the writer Dave Eggers. It will be hosted by Davy Rothbart, creator of Found magazine, and the performing comics are Jonathan Coulton, Ian Edwards, Bobby Lee, Al Madrigal, and Tig Notaro.... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 10:17 AM on March 25, 2008

"I've Got the Sun in the Morning" from Annie Get Your Gun. Solid song that you don't hear too often and works for well for a lot of different voices.
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 9:41 PM on March 18, 2008

Do you need an editor? Because I would love to do it. I spent the better part of last fall proofreading entrance essays for high school seniors. A different caliber, I know, just offering. Message me if you're interested.
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 2:29 PM on March 17, 2008

To quote Arrested Development, "Family first."
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 2:25 PM on March 17, 2008

Apples to Apples. I've never played with a group bigger than 10 or 12, but you could divide people up or give a 40-person game a try. It's really great for getting people to laugh and talk.
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 11:42 PM on March 11, 2008

Sideways Stories from the Wayside School.
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 12:12 PM on March 11, 2008

Best Sex Writing 2008.
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 12:15 AM on March 11, 2008

Actions speak louder than words. If he were interested in you, you would be confident in that, but he is clearly not worth your time. And as much as you would like closure I doubt you'll get it. Move on and get into therapy so that you can find nice guys.
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 6:22 PM on March 9, 2008

I agree that there is no standard etiquette (that I know of). I think a nice way to end a date is to say, "I had fun. I'd like to see you again sometime soon. What are you doing next week?" It's honest and straightforward, and there is less room for them to give you an excuse over email for why they don't want to see you again.
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 9:28 PM on March 5, 2008

I only wear thigh-highs after a similar experience (I'm 5'7" and 170lbs). They're easier to put on and you can wear them with anything.
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 12:08 AM on March 5, 2008

No brand recommendations, I just pick something up at the drug store. Lucky for me my thighs are big enough that an elastic band at the top keeps them up. A garter belt is not a bad idea though if you're not blessed with thunder thighs like mine. :)
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 9:18 PM on March 5, 2008

H&M has really cute, trendy clothes for cheap.
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 1:49 PM on March 5, 2008

My default-gift is always a book on sign language for babies. Unless your stepsister is totally opposed to the idea of her baby signing it will be incredibly helpful. The babies I know who can sign scream a lot less than the ones that can't tell you what they want.
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 10:17 AM on March 5, 2008

I wash my hair two or three times a week and I use Redken, which is expensive ($15 for a 12oz, I think) and you can only get it at beauty supply stores but it is worth it. Their products are very high-quality and more concentrated than drug store products so you only need to use a little bit (my hair is shoulder-length and very thick and I only use about a dime-sized amount of shampoo and a little more conditioner). I don't mind spending the money because it lasts for so long. Since I started... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 10:01 AM on March 5, 2008

A good friend of mine is planning her wedding and is in a similar situation in that she wants something small and he wants something big. They agreed that she would pay for the ceremony and he would pay for the reception. It's not 50/50, but they are each paying for what is important to them. Perhaps there is some similar way that you and your fiance could split the individual costs, i.e. he pays for the caterer and you pay for the photographer.

(Sorry if a similar... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 12:06 AM on March 5, 2008

It looks like you're near Chicago - have you ever heard of 826Chi? They are a nonprofit group dedicated to improving writing skills in school-aged children but they also offer programs and workshops for adults. They are always looking for volunteers to tutor kids in writing and to get out their publications. I was an intern at the San Francisco branch this fall and I loved every minute of it. Not only was I able to add the experience to my resume, but it rekindled my long-dormant passion for... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 11:18 PM on February 29, 2008

You say you're good with kids in general, which is fantastic. Still, I like to recommend this episode of NPR's This American Life called How to Talk to Kids to anyone who is nervous or uncomfortable around children (which it sounds like you might be given the new situation). The overall theme of the broadcast essentially says that kids are people, they just have less life-experience than adults. If I were in your situation, I would treat him as an equal or roommate in the... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 4:31 PM on February 29, 2008

Taking someone's photo without his or her permission is completely unethical. It doesn't matter what you plan to do with the photo. Many people are uncomfortable and/or opposed to having their photograph taken, and for you to take a picture without asking could have negative consequences for you and the subject. Obviously if you are taking a picture of a crowded street you can't ask for everyone's consent, but when you have the ability to ask, you should. I always do when I'm taking portraits... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 7:51 PM on February 27, 2008

chunking express and scarabic:

Some people genuinely believe that having their photograph taken steals their soul. Others don't want to be photographed for other personal reasons. It doesn't matter what happens to or with the photo later; it is the act of taking the photo that is in question.

If the belief is out there that a photo could steal one's soul, then it is the right thing to do to ask everyone (within reason and ability, i.e. crowded... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 10:53 AM on February 28, 2008

He should have some questions of his own prepared should the interviewer ask, "Is there anything you want to know about the university, humanities program, etc." It shows that he is curious and interested about the university rather than just answering interview questions.
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 12:35 PM on February 25, 2008

So many great responses! Thank you very much.
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 10:51 PM on February 18, 2008

You say that you're working and saving money, which is great. I think now it's time to start researching all those "adult" things (insurance, apartments, etc.) that you're unsure of how to approach. You took the first step in researching and obtaining a new cell phone plan and getting a credit card. It's the same with everything else. Keep track of your spending and make a budget (you may have to drop the expensive clothes). Look on Craigslist for average rent costs in your area and... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 10:35 PM on February 18, 2008

My mom is a social worker who specializes in geriatric care. She supported all my grandparents with their own aging process as well as their spouses' while on opposite sides of the US.

One thing you could do for your mom is try and find a support group for her so that she can communicate with other people in a similar situation. I know that local chapters of the Alzheimer's Association often have support groups, but it doesn't sound like your stepdad has dementia. Their... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 9:03 PM on February 17, 2008

Fremont is a really fun neighborhood with a lot of public artwork, a good bar scene and independent restaurants and boutiques. It's beginning to border on yuppie-hippie (complete with a new Whole Foods) but it's a fun place to wander around. Keep it in mind for the Summer Solstice Parade hosted by the Fremont Art Council.

Ballard is not my favorite neighborhood (sorta expensive), but you have to check out Archie McPhee's on Market Street.... [more]
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 11:56 PM on February 14, 2008

2nd the Calistoga Spa. It's beautiful, low-key and not too pricey.
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 5:46 PM on February 11, 2008

I'm going to be US-centric and assume you're here.

The US dollar will go much futher in Australia than Europe. This may not be the best reason to choose a place to travel, but it's something to consider.
posted to Ask Metafilter by easy_being_green at 11:47 AM on February 11, 2008