Ask Jac

Oddball information to help you live your life. Or not.


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How do I make lemonade out of lemons?

Option A: First, cut each lemon in half.  Then, using a citrus squeeze or juicer, extract all juice into a container. Transfer all collected juices to a pitcher, and add 1 to 1 1/2 cups of sugar (to taste), some water, and ice. Mix well.  Option B: Think of the crappy scenario you are in and publish a book about it.


What does the symbol used in the BMW logo stand for?

The blue, white, and black symbol is intended to resemble the moving propeller of an airplane. And yes, I did learn this from Finding Forester.


What is the cult-resembling caterpillar off I-35 between Dallas and Waco?

If you ever traveled I-35 in Texas, you may have noticed a strange building just past Hillsborough that has been disguised as a caterpillar.  This building is surrounded by several dome-shaped buildings along a small dirt road.  For many years, I thought this place was a cult - some kind of "dome people forever" organization.  But upon my first visit to the site, I was greeted by a helpful video in the "Visitors Center" (another small dome building).  The video explained that these dome-shaped homes were a very efficient way to build homes and other facilities. Their materials and structure allow for extremely economical power usage, while providing a comfortable and unique place to live (one example uses only about 2 hairdryers worth of power to heat and cool the entire house).  Although the domes appear small on the outside, an entire floor plan with sufficiently sized rooms exists inside; the deceptively tiny Visitors Center had a lobby, bedroom, and full bathroom.  The "caterpillar" serves as sort of a warehouse where materials are stored and new dome buildings are constructed.


Who is the oldest living former President of the United States?

As of September 2003, Ronald Reagan - our 40th President - is the oldest still living. I believe he is the second oldest in terms of all Presidents who have lived longest (I need to verify, but I think Ford reached a few years later than Reagan is now, before he passed on).


How do I remove a blood stain from upholstery?

Before cleaning, be sure to ask yourself if you should be calling the police - or running from them.  For those of your who happened to cut your finger on the couch or had an unfortunate nose bleed on your pillow, try these solutions: Vinegar, baking soda, or Oxy Clean.


How do I get gasoline smell out of my clothes?

Gasoline smell is difficult to remove with regular laundry detergent. I have spilled it on myself before from a drip in a gas station nozzle, and a lot of truck drivers tend to have this odor issue with their clothes. Try this: wash the gas-smell clothing (separate from any other clothing!) in the washing machine with half detergent and half baking soda. A little extra baking soda won't hurt.  If the smell is still present after the wash, place them in the washer again with 1/2 can of Coca Cola (Classic) and a small amount of detergent.


Why is my dog constantly titling his/her head to one side?

Usually, this is a sign of possible ear infection. It tends to happen in dogs with collapsed ear shapes (the kind that flip down to the sides of the head). To be sure, take your dog to the vet and have the ears checked.


 

 

 

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