Vbonics

I would really like to learn how to play piano, but I have a couple of questions about getting started. First, is practicing on a keyboard just as good as using an actual piano? Second, what are some good resources for someone looking to teach themselves the basics of piano (books, dvds, etc)?

in the US? It seems that many consider themselves "middle class", but I'm wondering if they really are. What are the high and low income ranges for the middle class?

I have a long haired black cat and I have noticed that his skin has become more flaky recently. He looks like he has a bit of dandruff. He's also been getting frequent (almost once a day) hairballs lately. The skin under his collar is most flaky, and feels a bit bumpy. He doesn't have fleas or anything like that on him, so what could be causing the skin problem? Could the increase in hairballs be related to his dry skin? He doesn't seem to be in any discomfort, but I'm a little worried about what's wrong with him. Any ideas? He's on a good diet, so I don't think that's the issue.

So I went to give my kitty a manicure, and his clippers broke. I was wondering if I could use toenail clippers (the bigger ones) instead?

I will be finishing my Bachelor's degree in Political Science this May, and I was considering teaching English abroad for a year or so after graduation. Have any of you done this? What was your experience like? What expenses did you incur? Any advice or information is appreciated!

I am applying with Teach for America, and I have to submit a letter of intent with my application. They do not suggest any length requirements, so approximately how long should this be?

So next weekend I will be in a friend's wedding. As the Maid of Honor, I'm expected to make a speech at the reception right? I've never been a Maid of Honor before, what do these speeches typically consist of?

I was arguing this point with one of my professors recently, and was wondering what others think. Is it political activism if you click "like" for a cause on Facebook? Do you think people that do this sort of thing are more likely to be politically active or are they just jumping on a bandwagon?

I held a benefit for my friend this weekend for her upcoming kidney transplant. We did well, but I need suggestions on how to get more people to attend. For this past benefit, I called radio stations, put up signs at a local university, and used Facebook to promote the event. I am hoping the next benefit I hold will have better attendance. Any suggestions on how to increase attendance for one of these events?

My 2 year old cat is a tank a**. I feed my dog 2x a day, and each time my cat waits near the dog's bowl to finish off his food. My dog isn't possessive of his food, so most of the time he just lets the cat eat his leftovers. Since my cat helps himself to dog food, I have cut his own food back. My concern though is for the cat's nutrition. Is it ok to let him keep eating the dog food (and consequently cut back his cat food)? I do try to chase the cat away from the dog bowl when I can, but he likes to sneak in a few bites when I'm not looking. Do you have any other suggestions on how to prevent the cat from sneaking around the dog's dish?

I have one year left of my undergrad, and I'm considering going to grad school. I'm a political science major, and plan on teaching college eventually. Until then though, I'm wondering if I should try to get a job or continue on to grad school. What is your opinion? Is grad school worth it, or should I start looking for a job after I finish my undergrad?

I am still living with my ex. He should be moving into his own apartment in about a week. Last night we had a huge fight and are not speaking. I want him to leave now, but he doesn't really have anywhere to go. The apartment we share is mine, and when we broke up in early August, I gave him til Sept 1st to find his own place. Now with one week left, I can't even stand to look at him. So do I tell him to leave now? Or do I try to stick it out with him living under my roof for another week?

I am going to be doing a raffle for a friend of mine that is having a kidney transplant. I was wondering what sorts of things might generate the most attention and raffle entries. I was thinking electronics or gadgets would be a good idea, but I'm not sure. Suggestions are welcome.

I am throwing a bridal shower for a friend of mine, and the theme is recipes/cooking. For shower favors, I was thinking about making some of those cookie/brownie mixes in a Mason jar. Do you think this would be an appropriate favor? I plan on decorating them with fabric, ribbon, and a card with directions for baking.

I am just curious and wanted to see who you were thinking about voting for. So who do you favor and why?

A while ago, I was bringing some Italian Beef to a party, and it leaked all over my back seat. Now my car smells like a fast-food restaurant and it's driving me nuts! I've used upholstery cleaner and febreze on it, but it still smells! Is there something I can use to clean the seat and get the smell of Italian Beef outta my car? I would prefer natural solutions (vinegar/water maybe?) but will consider anything that will help!

I have an 07 Focus now, and I was thinking about getting into either a Lancer or an Outlander. I've looked at some reviews online, but I'm looking for other opinions. Have you owned either of these? What did you think?

I have a sliding glass door in my living room that is a real pain to open and close. I was thinking about trying WD-40 or something to help it slide better, but I was wondering if there might be something better? It's really heavy and hard to slide, what would help? Thanks!

My boyfriend is seriously obsessed with fart jokes. He thinks it's hilarious, and I think it's disgusting. No matter how many times I tell him he's gross, he keeps doing it. Do men ever grow out of this sort of thing? I feel like I have a child at home, not a man!

When I first started dating my boyfriend he was unemployed. During that time, he helped out around the house without being asked. Now that he's got a job, I feel like I'm constantly waiting on him while he just sits there. I work 2 jobs and go to school full-time, so it's not like I'm just sitting around all day. I have been doing all the cooking and cleaning lately. Last night after making dinner, I started doing the dishes. When I was just about done, he came in and said "you didn't ask me to come help you". Why should I have to ask? He lives there too, and I feel like if I'm constantly having to ask him to do things...I'm a nag. If I don't ask, nothing gets done. So what's the best way to go about this? I'm starting to get really annoyed about being a housekeeper and a cook for him.