Comments (145)

1. 3. I can name any song played on the local classic rock station 92kqrs, within 5 seconds or less of it coming on.

   posted by Nick on 1-23-2009 at 10:21 am

2. Challenege #3

   Some members of my family have really lame superpowers. I think they all stem from some kind of genetic, inheritable, biochemical imbalance. My grandfather could make any metal rust in 48 hours by touching it. He was a machinist, so this was a problem. He could touch a piece of sheet metal and his fingerprint would be rusted on there two days later. My father killed all batteries that came in contact with him. He couldn’t wear a watch – the battery never lasted more than a couple of days. I conduct electricity, to the extreme – I arc ALL THE TIME, in all seasons. I frequently see a pretty blue arc between me and the car handle, as well as the occasional spark. Other people find it amusing, but it kinda hurts.

   posted by Erin Maloney on 1-23-2009 at 10:24 am

3. Challange 3

   I can lift 1000 pounds with my legs.
   Arms, not so much.

   posted by Kate on 1-23-2009 at 10:33 am

4. 3. I can put a classroom full of 10th graders to sleep in 5 minutes flat with my extensive knowledge of completely useless facts.

   posted by Elizabeth on 1-23-2009 at 10:33 am

5. This is a sidenote – but who won the 14th giveaway on city slogans?

   posted by Emily on 1-23-2009 at 10:34 am

6. Challenge #1 – consider renting a house instead of a hotel. We did this when we went to Ireland and it saved us a ton of money. We chose a location where we could take day trips around the country. We were able to eat breakfast at the house and dinner as well. We only ate out for lunch.

   posted by Carolyn G on 1-23-2009 at 10:36 am

7. Challenge #2:

   When we were on vacation in Spain a few years ago, I was really hooked on the game “The Legend of Zelda – Link’s Awakening”. I was playing it all day long on my Game Boy and talked to my cousin about my progress.
   When I finally got to the end boss the first time, (whom you need to kill multiple times with your boomerang, arrows and bombs) I sadly hadn’t gotten enough bombs!
   So I shouted out “Dammit, I need more bombs!”
   To which my mother replied “Should I buy more tampons?”

   That’s why – since Spain in 2002 – tampons are now called bombs. Or sheep. But that’s an entirely different story.

   posted by Nessie on 1-23-2009 at 10:37 am

8. Challenge #1: The number one travel tip I have is learn about who you’re traveling with. I know from experience. I took a Labor Day weekend trip with my best friend and learned that we both need our “me time” or else we’ll end up wanting to kill each other.
   It was an experience that I wish not to repeat.

   Another travel tip: If the person sitting next to you on the plane starts talking to you and you don’t want to talk to them, don’t pop a breath mint, but pop a garlic pill or something that will give you bad breath. They won’t be talking to you for long.

   Challenge #2: My made up word is quantifilifiness. Definition: the feeling I get when I have to deal with a lot of numerical data.
   I’m a writer and I hate numbers, but I have to deal with them when writing about government budgets and other numerical data stories. So to deal with numbers, I have to go into a different mode, which is similar to how Mary Poppins looks at things. Weird, I know, but after looking at page after page of budgets and numbers and then have to explain it to people who don’t care, you’d be a little crazy, too.

   Challenge #3: I have the super-power ability to become invisible. At least that’s how it seems because every day I have someone cut me off on the road as if I were invisible.

   posted by Shelly on 1-23-2009 at 10:37 am

9. Challenge #2
   Schniblies /SHNIB-leez/- the tiny pieces of paper fringe that pollute the floor when ripping a page out of a perforated notebook

   posted by Chelsea on 1-23-2009 at 10:39 am

10. #1 – Visit small-midsized city’s art museums. Anyone can plan on hitting the Met or Gugenheim or the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The amazing thing is discovering that even towns like Allentown and Reading, PA have impressive art museums. The same can be said for Pittsburgh, Boston, Raleigh-Durham and other places you would never think of. You’ll be blown away by the diversity and depth of some of the collections.

    Not to mention the benefits of MUCH smaller crowds, cheaper restaurants than major cities and a real sense of finding a little out of the way place.

    Everyone probably knows a good Italian place near the Met in NYC. How many people know the great middle eastern joint down the block from the Allentown Art Museum?

    #2a – Litigate: To mentally troubleshoot a position or argument. Basically, putting a thought on trial in your head until you’ve got it ironclad.

    #2b – (not really “new” but rather returning it to its actual definition)Peruse: To read or examine in detail. (How this came to mean “give a cursory look” is probably covered in the semantics antics book, but has bugged me for ages).

    #3a – The Dry Delivery – I can spout absolutely nonsense with a straight-faced deadpan delivery that gives instant credibility. Some things of which I have actually convinced people:
    “Linnea Quigley has been in ever Hollywood movie since 1976″
    “Bill Clinton was the saxaphonist on 3 Might Mighty Bostone albums”
    “The guy wearing the hat on the back of a $2 bill is Adam Weishaupt, founder of the Illuminati”
    “The TV show Bosom Buddies was actually based on Tom Hanks’ early days in LA living in an all women apartment complex”

    posted by EMStoveken on 1-23-2009 at 10:40 am

11. OK here goes:
    1. Rather than a travel tip, per se, here’s something funny to look for. If you’re ever in the Atlanta airport security line there is a glass case full of actual items confiscated when passengers tried to carry them on. Its an example of what not to do, if you will. At the bottom of the case is a full-size chainsaw. The strange thing is that hardly anyone even notices it or finds the humor in someone ‘accidently’ forgetting to take their chainsaw out of their pocket before going through security.
    2. OK maybe too personal but back in college if anyone was ‘busy’ in the room and his roommate started to open the door we’d yell ‘I’m Reading’. It came to mean anytime someone needed some ‘alone time’.
    3. I can solve jumbled words instantly just by looking at it. It drives everyone crazy at the movie theater when they run those ‘who is it’ features before the previews.
    4. Sorry. Not on Facebook. I do myspace, LinkedIn and just plain old email.

    posted by Joe on 1-23-2009 at 10:40 am

12. 2. “TiVo” (TEE-voh) n. An archaic form of time-shifting broadcast television, replaced in late 2008 by web video, Slingbox, Amazon Unbox, NetFlix, and going outside. See also “BetaMax.”

    posted by Brian on 1-23-2009 at 10:43 am

13. 2. Maverick:
    Current meaning: an independent individual who does not go along with a group or party
    Evolved meaning: 1) Annoying individual who doesn’t go along with a group or party just like everyone else. 2) Election time drinking game.

    3. My superhero power was not in-born, but has developed from having a phone without caller ID. When the phone rings, I can instantly tell if it’s a telemarketer, survey taker or family member that I want to avoid.

    posted by Kendyl on 1-23-2009 at 10:44 am

14. I can write haiku
    about anything you’d like
    suggest a topic…

    five, seven then five
    sometimes i use my fingers
    to count syllables.

    posted by Sandra on 1-23-2009 at 10:44 am

15. Aww, thanks, Scott!

    posted by Miss Cellania on 1-23-2009 at 10:45 am

16. Before going on a cruise, take 500ml of Ginger Root in capsule form for one week before. It helps balance your equilibrium and when the ship starts a rockin’, you won’t be seeing your dinner for the second time of the night like everyone else. I’ve tried it, it really works.

    posted by Chad on 1-23-2009 at 10:47 am

17. #3

    My husband knows the mascot and colors of just about any school in the state of Texas. There are a LOT of schools in Texas, btw. It’s a great party trick.

    I can tell if a person is trustworthy after one encounter. I don’t know what you would call that, but I am always right on the money. It may be years down the road, but I am always right about them.

    I wonder what “super powers” our kids will have? Hopefully they’ll be able to predict the reliability of high school football players/ programs. Would it be bad to retire off your kids gambling abilities???

    posted by Renis on 1-23-2009 at 10:52 am

18. 1. Travel tip – learn the ins and outs of your home airport to make it easier when you get there late and to help get out quickly to go home. For example, ATL is the busiest airport in the country, but I know where to always find a parking spot close to the terminal. I arrived 30 min before an int’l flight but still got on board.

    2. New word: scrumbled – crumpled, torn or ruined. Ex. “I had to throw away your papers because they were all scrumbled up.”

    3. Superpower – I can make a meal without leaving any mess behind in the kitchen. My wife has the opposite power; she can make toast and use every clean dish and utensil we own.

    posted by John C on 1-23-2009 at 10:57 am

19. I can find parking spaces right in front of my target location in Manhatten, on holidays, in shopping malls, where ever.

    posted by cleo4211 on 1-23-2009 at 11:00 am

20. My powers: I can shoot a basketball better with my eyes closed than with them open, and I can always tell when my mom is walking down the hall.

    posted by Elizabeth on 1-23-2009 at 11:01 am

21. 1) You don’t need toiletries anywhere you go! Are you visiting family? Chances are good they’ll have some soap, shampoo, toothpaste, etc for you to use while staying there. Staying at a hotel? The bathrooms come pre-stocked with the goods. Hell, those items are built into the price of the room, so you may as well use them all up, even if you can’t figure out what that small bottle of white-ish grey liquid is for. So why waste money buying travel size containers, or losing valuable space in you suitcase taking your normal size bottles? Save the space and money and trust in the fact that toiletries will find their way to you at your destination.

    2) My sister, her boyfriend, my wife, and I have a monthly standing date to just hang out, drink, watch movies, play board games, and drink some more. One of our particularly fun pastimes is drinking scrabble, where we are forced to make up words, and then defend that word by making up a fake definition. A while back while playing this game (and incredibly intoxicated) I created the word “Bjootu”, which of course is an African pygmy tribe birthday celebration. So ever since, this phrase has spilled over into my family and friend’s daily vocabulary and whenever someone is celebrating a birthday we tell them Happy Bjootu!

    3) I possess the ability to recite a movie or television show, line by line after seeing it only one time. I possess the power of perfect quote

    posted by Jon on 1-23-2009 at 11:04 am

22. I can identify any episode of “Saved by the Bell” within 2.5 seconds. This is due to a) my knowledge of bad 80s-90s fashion and 2) the fact that I still harbor an embarrassing crush on Zack Morris.

    posted by Julie on 1-23-2009 at 11:06 am

23. 1. If you have an extra few hours to burn (and don’t mind inconveniencing whoever is picking you up from the airport–jerk), go to the boarding counter and ask that your name be at the top of the list to get bumped if the flight is overbooked. Should you get bumped (you lucky dog) you’ll be placed on the next flight and given a free ticket (or voucher). Whenever you redeem that, go to the ticket counter and ask that your name be put on the top of the list…I call it “re-cationing.”

    2. dagwood (n.) – an average-looking man who is inexplicably with a mind-bogglingly attractive woman
    [Americanism circa 1930 from the comic strip "Blondie"]

    posted by Joe C. on 1-23-2009 at 11:08 am

24. #2:
    Word: Shnooker
    Object: the blue snot-sucking bulb used to clean out babies and toddlers noses because they can’t “blow!”.
    We came up with this one after getting tired of saying: Honey, pass me the snot-sucker. Shnooker rolls off the tongue nicer.

    posted by Ashley on 1-23-2009 at 11:09 am

25. 1. Travel- If you are anywhere in the US and a female, put on a southern accent. I naturally have one, and it works every time. Go to a bar or restaurant and watch the free drinks and occasionally meals come rolling in. Even down in New Orleans.

    2. New word: Whang- a combination of whack and bang. An onomatopoeia that describes the sound and feeling of hitting your leg or arm on a thin piece of metal.

    3. Super power- Ever since I was a kid, I’ve been able to win coin toss about 90% of the time. I’m so good to at it, my brother refuses to use a coin toss as a tie breaker.

    posted by Annie G on 1-23-2009 at 11:11 am

26. 1) a)Pack your undies in your shoes. b)be spontaneous. Southwest in particular has really great last minute deals. I’ve been known to call out sick on a friday and jet down to FL for the weekend.

    2)I have a habit of adding -ness, -ish, or -y to words. I was saying truthiness long before a certain fake newscaster. Case in point: my coworker just asked if I was busy…I’m busyish.

    3)I have a strange ability to remember what people wear on certain days. My best friend will routinely call me before nights out to make sure she isn’t wearing the same thing as last week. I remember what I was wearing on most first dates I’ve been on, 9/11, the day I bought my first cell phone, and for all of my job interviews.

    posted by Caitlin on 1-23-2009 at 11:13 am

27. Challenge 3…I can make waiters and waitresses refill my tea glass with my t.s.p. If I glare really hard and suck on my straw and rattle my ice, it seems to make my powers work better

    posted by Kevin Beeson on 1-23-2009 at 11:15 am

28. Challenge #1
    Do your research! I have found that studying the street maps, transportation systems, etc. of an area is much more useful than just simply knowing where to go. Not having to pull out a map or a travel book, and walking around with a sense of purpose and confidence is a major benefit to your own safety. The only times I have ever been confronted by people trying to trick or con me during my travels, are those when I didn’t familiarize myself with the layout of the arriving train station or basic city layout and I truly looked like a fish out of water. You don’t have to memorize an entire city grid, just the major throughways and locations so that you can find your way back to where you need to be safely. You’d be amazed at just how much even pretending like you know what you are doing can make the difference! Do your homework and have fun! Put down the guidebook and really become a part of where you are!

    posted by Matt on 1-23-2009 at 11:19 am

29. 1. If you have an extra few hours to burn (and don’t mind inconveniencing whoever is picking you up from the airport–jerk), go to the boarding counter and ask that your name be at the top of the list to get bumped if the flight is overbooked. Should you get bumped (you lucky dog) you’ll be placed on the next flight and given a free ticket (or voucher). Whenever you redeem that, go to the ticket counter and ask that your name be put on the top of the list…

    2. dagwood (n.) – an average-looking man who is inexplicably with a mind-bogglingly attractive woman
    [Americanism circa 1930 from the comic strip "Blondie"]

    posted by J.Chandler on 1-23-2009 at 11:20 am

30. #2 Fiddle(n) – To feel well.

    Last week, actually, I thought I would contribute to the English language the word ‘fiddlefit’(as in ‘fit as a fiddle’).

    “How are, Jane?”
    “Why, I’m fiddlefit, John!”

    Nice, right?

    But since it needs to be an existing word, I’m going to go with ‘fiddle’. Plus, it’s fun to say! Fiddle, fiddle, fiddle.

    #3 As far as my superability, I’ve recently discovered that I can fix broken printers in the office by removing components and not putting them back. I have no idea how I do this (first time was by accident). Everytime a printer has a little nervous breakdown, I just remove a spring or lever, and boom. It’s fiddle, again! (see what I did there?)

    posted by Jarrod on 1-23-2009 at 11:21 am

31. 1. put a colored zip tie (or a few) on your luggage handle. There are a million blue and black travel bags — yours will be the blue one with the three orange zip ties on the handle. Having them on doesn’t impede function in any way, and makes your bag stick out like a sore thumb in the luggage line. Simple, cheap, and effective.

    3. Super power: I wield the power of super restraint. I haven’t strangled anyone at work all week. The day isn’t over yet, but I’m leaving at noon so I just might make it. Hold on, my phone is ringing . . .

    posted by EV on 1-23-2009 at 11:25 am

32. #1: Always, Always, ALWAYS buy traveler’s insurance. I was in Israel working on an archaeological dig in July 2006 when Hezbollah kidnapped three Israeli soldiers sparking the Israel-Lebanon war that lasted just over a month. We spent two full days at the airport in Tel Aviv with nothing to eat but kosher McDonalds. Always buy traveler’s insurance…

    #2 Friggida – Verb – Interjection used to display frustration

    #3 For years my sisters have reminded me of a couple of super powers that I have: First, the ability to avoid doing chores (I am the youngest of the three of us). Second, my ability to remember useless knowledge. They continue to come up with new nicknames – my favorite has always been “cesspool of worthless knowledge.”

    posted by heiligec on 1-23-2009 at 11:25 am

33. My power is to be a semi-renaissance woman.

    I tend to pick up new things very quickly, but can never truly achieve a level of mastery in anything.

    The first time I shot archery I hit the target on all 6 arrows. However, despite shooting for years, I have barely increased in skill.

    I picked up calligraphy very quickly. After only one lesson I was able to do fairly nice scrollwork. However, despite hundreds of hours of practise on one script, I still cannot uniformly form the letters well enough to be paid for my work.

    Other hobbies I’ve picked up after one setting, but still can’t do quite as well as I’d like despite hours of practise: embroidery, painting, pewter carving/casting, pottery, quilling, chainmaille, flying trapeze, violin, ballet, cooking, and so much more!

    posted by Melanie on 1-23-2009 at 11:28 am

34. My superpowers (yes, more than one!) are:

    Entertaining Superpower: I can whistle through my rolled up tongue–it sound soft, like a dove, but I can whistle actual songs–Yankee Doodle is a favorite.

    Practical Superpower: If I need to print or make copies, I can almost always grab the correct amount of paper. If I need 83 copies, I can grab 80-85 sheets instantly, not even consciously thinking about it. It works on cardstock and envelopes, too!

    posted by #3 on 1-23-2009 at 11:31 am

35. 1. Travel Tip:
    Have a plan before you travel. Search the web for ideas, plans, and deals.

    2. Updating Language:
    a Belgium is the longest french fry on your plate. Oddly enough, a France is a single bite of a Belgian waffle.

    3. Superpower:
    I can fly about a foot up in the air, for about a second at a time.

    posted by Mor on 1-23-2009 at 11:34 am

36. #3 – I do really well recognizing actors voices on radio spots, video games, etc. I figured out Michael Dorn (Worf, Star Trek TNG) did voices for NPCs on World of Warcraft from four words, “I buy and trade.”

    ~Bethy

    posted by Bethy on 1-23-2009 at 11:35 am

37. I don’t have a special ability, but rather a special inability. When I get frustrated or in a hurry I completely lose the ability to shout out sensible orders to my children. I routinely tell my son “hurry up and eat your socks (instead of breakfast)” or “grab your poop (shoes) and get in the car.” The other day I told my daughter to “go to the kitchen and get in the toilet (instead of go to the bathroom and get in the tub). I don’t realize what I’ve said until my son falls in the floor laughing. Even then I usually have to wait until he can talk again so he can tell me what I’ve said.

    ReCaptcha: panic shouts

    posted by Heather Dawn on 1-23-2009 at 11:36 am

38. crescendo: watch me
    decrescendo: watch me
    poco a poca allargando: watch me
    ritardando: watch me
    a tempo: watch me

    In fact, my choir director insists that almost every Italian musical term means “watch me.”

    posted by Watch me! on 1-23-2009 at 11:37 am

39. Contest 1 – Travel to Powell’s Books in Portland,Or. One block with 9 color coded rooms of reading goodness where they put new books on the shelf with used so you can bargin hunt. They had you a map when you walk in the door. Just browsing the shelves will put you in information overload.

    Contest 3 – Not only am I the Great GPS Girl (able to remember every street/path/walkway/back road in every vacation spot, theme park, or tourist trap I have ever visited without aid of map or electronic device) but I am also the Marvelous Movie Maven (able to name any movie that pops on tv within one minute of viewing from any point in the movie -usually by sound of opening credit music alone.)

    The first ability is awesome during travel, but unhappily will not work in my own city. The second ability drives my family bonkers!

    posted by Laurie on 1-23-2009 at 11:40 am

40. “Jook” (pronounced like crook) means to hit or punch or stab someone – I guess almost any type of physical assault. It can also mean having sex or heavy petting (especially when you aren’t supposed to be). My mom uses this word interchangeably for several meanings. “I was walking by that woman in the store and she just jooked me out of the way” or “Yeah, I saw those two high school kids jooking in the corner”.

    posted by Kristyn on 1-23-2009 at 11:40 am

41. Challenge #2

    My favorite word is “complexibility.”

    It’s a portmanteau of “complex” and “flexibility” and I use it to describe a situation (or in my life, a computer application)that is required to be so generic and flexible that it becomes absurdly complex and difficult.

    posted by Stephanie on 1-23-2009 at 11:50 am

42. #2 – if I can make up a new word, it would be “puppirific” – as great as a new puppy. But to change the meaning of an existing word…well, since so many words that used to have bad connotations now mean “awesome” (think “bad”, “wicked”, “phat”) – how about “barbaric” now meaning “awesome”? ‘Like, dude, that new album by Okkervil River is barbaric!’ See how I used a word in a different way and name-dropped an indie rock band that most people don’t know? Plus, Robert Byrd’s soporific rant on the senate floor about dog-fighting being barbaric drained the word of its original intensity in many people’s view.

    #3 My super power is the ability to always make exact change.

    posted by Diana on 1-23-2009 at 11:52 am

43. #3 Thought of another superpower I have – to cut a deck of cards exactly in half.

    posted by Diana on 1-23-2009 at 11:54 am

44. Can we vote? Cuz I’d vote for Heather Dawn…LOL!

    ~Bethy

    posted by Bethy on 1-23-2009 at 11:58 am

45. 1) Travel Tip – when visiting your in-laws be sure to feign laryngitis for the whole visit. It also helps if you carry a bottle of hot sauce so you can break out in sweats when you want to get away.
    2) Plorange – definition: a word created just to make something rhyme with “orange.”

    posted by Seth on 1-23-2009 at 12:03 pm

46. #2–”minimalize”–to attempt efficiency in the most inefficient way possible. More specifically, to use unnecessarily complex or meaningless language in a context where simplicity would better communicate your ideas.
    “Our manager really minimalized our work today when she forced each of us to come up with a list of ten ways to streamline our group brainstorming process.”
    “If you add the phrases ‘due to the fact that’ and ‘insofar as’ twice in each paragraph, you can really minimalize your TPS report.”

    #3–I can list the countries of Europe in alphabetical order. Pretty super! Also, I can simultaneously wiggle my ears AND keep my eyebrows still.

    posted by Amanda Rachel on 1-23-2009 at 12:06 pm

47. Challenge # 1

    Here’s my travel tip for all potential vegans wanting to hit Japan: bring your own food. If you’re a vegetarian, you manage if you prepare a few stock phrases to ask at restaurants, but when my vegan sister visted me she was largely unable to eat anything other than fruits and vegetables and some tofu from the grocery store. There is no such thing as vegetarian sushi in Japan: it all comes with fish. All of it. Also, beware of the deer on Miajima island. They like to eat maps.

    posted by Heather on 1-23-2009 at 12:11 pm

48. 1. Many places offer free tours, guides, and entrance to many of the musems are free or discounted at certain times/days of the week. You can save a ton of money. Also, always ask some of the local where they eat…you can trust their opinion and its usually cheaper because they know where to go!!!

    3. I cannot blow my nose…dont ask me how or why, I just know that I cant….i also have the ability to stop hiccups anytime, anywhere

    posted by Craig on 1-23-2009 at 12:11 pm

49. #1 Pack that old, holey underwear (cleaned!) and throw away once worn. Use the extra space to pack more soveniers.
    #2 Gif-holder for when the images don’t load in the web space.

    Captcha: empire woman

    posted by carol on 1-23-2009 at 12:12 pm

50. Challenge #3:

    I have superhuman olfactory senses. I’ve often been teased and harrassed, called silly names like “sensinose” for pointing out smells that no one else can detect until far later than I do.

    Examples:
    - I stop drinking the milk days before someone else comments that it’s gone sour.
    - I convince other people it’s raining when I smell the wet asphalt from my windowless.
    - I have a bloodhound-like ability to sniff in repeated, short whiffs to track the source/location of a particular smell.
    - Sorry for this, but on some days, I can even smell my own nose gremlins (boogers).

    posted by Stephanie on 1-23-2009 at 12:16 pm

51. Decided to go for the second one as well since I have a few superpowers.
    Superpower number 1: The ability to eat the spiciest dish on the menu at my local Indian food restaurant.
    Superpower Number 2: The ability to posess infinite amount of Jewish trivia (while not being Jewish).

    posted by Heather on 1-23-2009 at 12:25 pm

52. Travel tips: I travel for business and have learned a few things that have made all the difference:

    When booking a flight, choose an aisle seat towards the front of the plane.

    Never, and I mean NEVER, check a bag. I packed for a 2-week trip to Sweden in one carry on bag, in January which means bulkier clothing. Plan your outfits in layers, and roll your clothing when packing it.

    Avoid O’Hare Airport AT ALL COSTS.

    Invest in a high quality pair of walking shoes.

    When you’re dressing for a flight, make sure you have shoes that are easy to slip on and off. Remember that you’ll have to remove any coats or cardigans, or scarves, so only wear what is really necessary. Don’t even think about stowing your stupid puffy coat in the overhead compartment if you’re on a flight with me, i swear I will find you and beat the crap out of you if you do this.

    If you bring McDonalds food onto the airplane with you, everyone will think you’re the devil.

    When you arrive in a new city, identify and memorize a highly visible landmark near your hotel before you venture off. That way, when you get lost and no one around you speaks English, just look up and find that church steeple or obnoxious billboard and walk towards it.

    And finally (and I’m not making this up to suck up to the Mental Floss staff), save your copy of Mental Floss to take with you on your trip. Right now the latest issue is sitting on my dining room table, unopened, waiting for my next trip. When you travel for business, it often means time alone. I take Mental Floss with me when I know I’ll be dining alone – it’s great company, and the articles are just the right length to fill the time between ordering a meal and eating it.

    posted by amber on 1-23-2009 at 12:33 pm

53. I know I’ve already submitted answers to the challenges, but I thought of another good word:

    Quone: Defined by Cosmo Kramer on Seinfeld, when a medical patient gets difficult, you have to quone them.

    I was interviewing someone for a hospital story last week and almost used the word. Good times.

    posted by Shelly on 1-23-2009 at 12:35 pm

54. 1) You must always barter in open markets. The rule in Africa is start at a third of the asking price and work from there. Keep you bids low.
    2)crafternoon
    3)I have a southern accent.

    posted by Lauren on 1-23-2009 at 12:39 pm

55. # 1 – Watch where the locals go to eat, you’ll find much, much cheaper meals there. Also, when booking travel tickets, to get the cheapest seats, go for non- air con, non – sleeper seats. Like a quarter of the price. And bargain bargain bargain – don’t be shy. You’ll end up getting stuff for at least half the price than if you payed what the vendor asked. Also, search out smaller, non – tourist directed markets – way cheaper to get those souveniers.

    # 2 – Crazedar – like Gaydar (which is like radar, but for sussing out sexual orientation), but for the crazies.

    # 3 – I am incapable of attending or throwing a bad party. Seriously, I’ve been called “The Patron Saint of Parties”.

    posted by Amdela on 1-23-2009 at 12:42 pm

56. Challenge 1: Before you leave, check
    howardforums.com for tips, hacks and sites you can use on your mobile phone to waste time during layovers, etc.

    Challenge 2: Scampi: n. A very fast-moving spider

    Challenge 3: I have the super ability to always pull push-open door and vice versa. I’m that Far Side cartoon in real life.

    posted by Charlie on 1-23-2009 at 12:43 pm

57. #2: Order: a hard surface, such as a book or magazine, that a person can put on his lap so that he has a surface on which to write. Example: “The kids want to draw pictures while we drive. They need order.” or “A baby shower game? Great! Give me some paper, pencil and order.”

    #3: Superpower: I know when women are pregnant before they announce it, and sometimes even before they know it.

    posted by loripop on 1-23-2009 at 12:44 pm

58. Challenge #2: Hork. It means one’s computer is seized up, but not yet at the Blue Screen of Death. Usage: Horked, hork up, will hork – such as “Opening Facebook will hork my laptop.” Has the added bonus of sounding slightly nasty.
    Challenge #3: I’ve got trans-gender Gaydar: it also works for identifying lesbians. Does that count?

    posted by Karl on 1-23-2009 at 12:45 pm

59. 1. If at all possible, only fly on Tuesdays. It’s the least traveled day of the week, and usually when the best deals are available.
    -When visiting any major city, the cleanest public bathrooms can be found in the lobby of chain hotels. Look like you’re a guest and you’re in.
    -Invest in your own neck pillow; it is invaluable for long flights or drives and can be used in hotels if the pillow/case looks dodgy.
    -If at all possible, do not use the sheets in a hotel. Think about it, when was the last time you saw a cleaning lady with a bunch of sheets for changing?
    - When in Europe, do not eat the bread provided for you in restaurants, as they typically charge you for it
    - If you never take sleeping pills unless you fly, make sure you actually fall asleep with them. Try them out a week or two before the flight, to see if all they do is make you groggy.
    - si visita un país que no hablan Inglés, aprender algunas palabras clave y frases en ese idioma. Prueba de Google traductor.The locals will appreciate the effort.
    - keep an eye out for crime; never take your money out in public; always keep some hidden in your shoe just in case.
    - plan ahead, but realize that nothing will go exactly as planned. Relax. You never know what you’ll find.
    - Douglass Adams said it best: Don’t Forget to Bring a Towel.

    posted by Bob on 1-23-2009 at 12:49 pm

60. (2) Slipper: one who takes part in the extremely competitive and daredevil-esque sport of sliding in one’s socks on a hardwood floor. A fuzzy slipper is one who takes a spill during this sport and hits his or her head.

    (3) My super power is magnetism. Namely, the way I am magnetically attracted to parking meters, mailboxes, light posts, and ATMs, resulting in spectacular collisions of every conceivable sort.

    posted by Monika on 1-23-2009 at 12:49 pm

61. #1: Search out and plan travel based on age restrictions. For example children under 3 get into Disney for free. My family had a great time this past fall when our son was 33 months old and therefore (1) free & (2) stll old enough to get onto most of the rides he would have at 36 months. This rule applies for all major theme parks which set age limits based on expected height of kids. Also watch for the age limits on kids tickets prices. If possible plan a trip when the kids are old enough to enjoy an attraction but still can get in for the kids price.

    posted by Mike on 1-23-2009 at 12:55 pm

62. #1

    Couch Surfing!
    This is based on a network of volunteers who accomodate travellers for free in a huge number of locations worldwide. Not only do you get free housing for a night or even a couple of months, but you have the invaluable experience of seeing how natives live, advice and direction straight from the locals, and you get to meet some of the most friendly and trusting people on the planet. It is cheap, enlightening, and uplifting.

    posted by Karen on 1-23-2009 at 12:57 pm

63. #2 This is more of a phrase, but why not;

    James Browning – v – when a person has to be carried from a location by two people, one on either side, likely against their will. The person must not be fighting the people, but merely attempting to continue what they were doing.
    Origin: The late singer/performer James Brown’s stage bit where he would appear to be escorted off stage, only to come back and continue performing.

    ex: I was James Browned out of that club. I don’t remember it, but that’s what they told me later.

    posted by Paco on 1-23-2009 at 12:58 pm

64. I am short. My children are short. There is only one person in the house who can reach the top shelf: our superhero – “Fuzzy Tall Man”

    posted by KJ on 1-23-2009 at 1:14 pm

65. #2) “Cowkittie” – any mixed black & white feline reminiscent of Holstein cattle.

    posted by K. Flora on 1-23-2009 at 1:28 pm

66. 3. I have a large tongue– they called it ‘the steak’ in high school. It has many uses, but the one my wife hates most is that I can stick an altoid up my nostril using only my tongue.

    posted by Steve on 1-23-2009 at 1:30 pm

67. #1. Whenever flying, Adidas pants and Van Slip-ons are the only way to go. This way, you dont have to take off your belt or untie your shoes at the security checkpoint (becuase you dont have either one). So while everyone is fumbling with their belts and laced shoes, you’re costing through the security lines. Plus, both of these accessories will make for a much more comfortable flight. I guess any sort of comfy beltless pants and laceless shoes will work, but those are my favorites.

    #2. Jark – similar to a jerk, but when spoken out loud, it sound much more ferocious. Go ahead and try it…”you’re a JARK.” See…wasnt that fun.

    #3. I have the ability to retain the most worthless information while not being able to remember important thing. Do i remember the majority of stuff i learned in college?….no….But, do i remember the cast of the Real World San Francisco…you bet your a** I do.

    posted by Andy on 1-23-2009 at 1:35 pm

68. #2/3: “Boogle.” It’s a combination of my name and Google. When my girlfriend is with her friends and they didn’t know something, the traditional phrase was “Google that $h*t.” At the insistance of my girlfriend she’ll tell her friends she’ll just call me. After the 5th time from questions ranging to “who wrote the Sound and the Fury?” to “What’s A&E stand for from the A&E Channel?” to “Who’s responsible for ‘beer’?” They call and I answer. Now most girls at the Pi Beta Phi house say “Boogle that $h*t.”

    So I guess that counts as #3 as well, I am a sorority girl question answering machine.

    posted by Byron on 1-23-2009 at 1:37 pm

69. take baby wipes everywhere they are worth their weight in gold on a trip
    i am colorblind and a girl & turd as a term of endearment (at least in my family)

    posted by sourpuss on 1-23-2009 at 1:39 pm

70. #3: I can completely nourish my child using only my boobs!

    posted by Johnna on 1-23-2009 at 1:40 pm

71. 1. I have travelled to Ireland a number of times and have found that B & B’s are the way to go. Also, if you are travelling with more than 4 people and are renting and ‘extended van’ please note they are very much smaller than the ones in the US

    2. My worde is Prop-Wash. This is the air that gets pushed behind a plane when it takes off (see the movie Pushing Tin). My definition of Prop-wash is when you walk behind someone who just passed gas and you get covered with stinky air.

    3. My talent is knowing immediately when someone is lying. I can’t tell you how I know but I know

    4. My scholarship would be Grown-Up Gap Year. When an adult wants to go back to pursue a degree they get enough money to cover their expenses so they can relax between leaving a job and going to school

    posted by JaneM on 1-23-2009 at 1:48 pm

72. #3: Without a road atlas or other navigational tool, I can connect any two cities in the United States via interstate highway. I haven’t mastered 3-digit interstates (loops around or spurs into cities), but I’m working on it…

    posted by Kevin on 1-23-2009 at 1:48 pm

73. #2 Cheddar(Verb):to rip to shreds. Also as an adjective, cheddared, meaning something that has been shredded, torn, ripped, or generally altered from its original state. Ex: “After being in my backpack every day for the past semester, my chemistry lab book is totally cheddared.” This is a word my dad used a lot when I was growing up and it wasn’t until I got to college that I realized it wasn’t a real word. But I still use it anyway.

    #3 I have a strange ability to make a popping sound with my ears. I put my fingers in them and create a seal which then makes a popping noise when I pull them out of my ears. I don’t know that it would save the world, but it is a good conversation starter.

    posted by Lu on 1-23-2009 at 1:54 pm

74. (2) “Buttonest-pushinest” A customer on the phone once said this in an aside to her coworker, I believe as part of a tirade about said coworker having broken the fax machine by pushing all the buttons at once. Totally cracked me up. Now used to describe anyone who is unjustifiably anxious and fidgety or is just plain annoying you.

    (3) I see a lot of people bragging about fabulous memories on the comments. My Super Power is the opposite: I am able to forget the particulars of just about any book, movie or conversation after a relatively short amount of time. This allows me to re-read books and re-watch movies I loved over and over. It also makes it almost impossible for me to hold a grudge, which is a great thing.

    posted by Denise on 1-23-2009 at 1:57 pm

75. Challenge #1:
    Always pack a frisbee. It can serve so many uses other than a plaything. My favorite extra use (and there are many), is to use it as a plate holder when all you have at a picnic is those flimsy paper plates and you like the potato salad.

    Challenge #2:
    Prayermon – A (usually) long-winded
    lesson presented to the listeners disguised as a supplication or communication with God.

    Challenge #3:
    The ability to bend the top joints of my fingers on my left hand whilst keeping the other finger joints rigid. I’ve not yet found the application of this super power, but when I do.. Whoo hoo ! Look out world !

    posted by Fred on 1-23-2009 at 2:03 pm

76. Challenge 1 – When traveling in a foreign country where you don’t speak the language, prepare “flash cards” with native phrases for places you might want to go, in case conversing with a cabby or finding directions on the local railway is difficult, you can always show the native speaker your cards with the destinations written on them.

    posted by Chris K. on 1-23-2009 at 2:05 pm

77. #3

    I don’t know if this counts as a superpower…the end of my nose itches when someone is going to call or come to visit…it never fails…

    I also have another superpower/curse…I can visit a restaurant, store,etc, and if it’s devoid of shoppers/patrons, it will be slap full of folks within 5 minutes…they ought to pay me to go places, lol :P

    posted by Diann on 1-23-2009 at 2:07 pm

78. #1 Travel Tip: If you’re going to Italy, rent a villa. There are several reputable companies that will rent villas in and around the major area like Florence, Sicily and Tuscany. Often they come with a housekeeper or 1-2 meals provided locally and are often cheaper than staying at a hotel in town. The bonus is you get to experience the local culture and food and receive a modicum more respect than the average “annoying American tourist”.

    #2 My word is flargh- “An emotion conveying a mixture of frustration, boredom, tiredness and a deep desire that it was 4pm on a Friday afternoon”
    Example. Q: “How are you feeling on this lovely Wednesday morning, Bob?” A: “Flargh”

    posted by Inger on 1-23-2009 at 2:16 pm

79. #1: Always pack an extra outfit in your carry on luggage. If your checked bag gets lost, you at least have one day’s clothes to wear.

    Also, as cheesy as it sounds, take a double-decker or trolley tour of the city. They are reknown tourist traps, but you really do learn a lot about the City your in and can see everything in a few hours. It also helps you to decide where you want to go back to and discover more throroughly.

    posted by Mavis on 1-23-2009 at 2:18 pm

80. Challenge #1
    I suggest getting a part time job at a hotel. One benefit most have is the ability to stay at any of their hotels worldwise at a discount.
    I worked at a place for over a year just one day a week and was able to stay at that chain on my vacation for 50% off. On top of that I was such a great employee that I worked a holiday shift and was rewarded with a guest certificate.

    posted by Ginny T on 1-23-2009 at 2:25 pm

81. Challenge #2

    Meaderthal — 1) n. A dull-witted student moving through his workbook at his own special pace. 2) v. The behavior of such a student.

    Usage: John’s parents were so wealthy and well-connected that he meaderthaled through three years of English with perfect grades.

    posted by Meg on 1-23-2009 at 2:27 pm

82. #3 My magic power is getting my kids to confess about stuff I never would have found out about in the first place.
    At dinner or just sitting on the couch if I feel something is off kilter with one of the kids I will ominously say, “so, do you want to tell me about why I would have gotten a phone call from school before I get mad or do you just want me to get mad”?
    The best part about it is that I never lied at all. I never said I got a call. I just led the kid to believe I did. You can’t believe how much I’ve learned about my kids!

    posted by Ginny T on 1-23-2009 at 2:32 pm

83. #3 – I have an uncanny sense of direction that keeps me from getting lost, forgetting where I parked or getting stuck in a casino. While visiting Las Vegas a few years back, my husband and I discovered that I instinctively know where the exits are, even if they’re completely obscured by slot machines. This also works in the car. Even if I’ve never been somewhere, I can figure out where we need to go just based on direction, even without markers like the sun. It’s especially handy in large parking lots, where I know where we parked even if I wasn’t paying attention. The downside, I get flustered if people question this ability. I can’t rationalize or explain why I know which way to go. I just do. My husband has now learned to just trust me. It works well.

    posted by Jenny on 1-23-2009 at 2:56 pm

84. 1) As a former rental car employee, I can tell you the most sure fire way to look for damages is to stand at each corner of the car and look at the body of the vehicle parallel. Sometimes you can’t see a small dent by looking right at it. A few extra minutes will save you both time down the road and $$.

    2) Speakeasy – A word my friends and I use to describe a hip new bar or hangout that most of the public isn’t aware of yet. Once they do, we move on to find a new one.

    3) Excel Man – Around the office I’m known to help other with basic and advanced functions of MS Excel.

    posted by Scott on 1-23-2009 at 2:57 pm

85. 1. If at all possible, only fly on Tuesdays. It’s the least traveled day of the week, and usually when the best deals are available.
    -When visiting any major city, the cleanest public bathrooms can be found in the lobby of chain hotels. Look like you’re a guest and you’re in.
    -Invest in your own neck pillow; it is invaluable for long flights or drives and can be used in hotels if the pillow/case looks dodgy.
    -If at all possible, do not use the sheets in a hotel. Think about it, when was the last time you saw a cleaning lady with a bunch of sheets for changing?
    - When in Europe, do not eat the bread provided for you in restaurants, as they typically charge you for it
    - If you never take sleeping pills unless you fly, make sure you actually fall asleep with them. Try them out a week or two before the flight, to see if all they do is make you groggy.
    - si visita un país que no hablan Inglés, aprender algunas palabras clave y frases en ese idioma. Prueba de Google traductor.The locals will appreciate the effort.
    - keep an eye out for crime; never take your money out in public; always keep some hidden in your shoe just in case.
    - plan ahead, but realize that nothing will go exactly as planned. Relax. You never know what you’ll find.
    - Douglass Adams said it best: Don’t Forget to Bring a Towel.

    posted by Robert on 1-23-2009 at 2:58 pm

86. Challenge One:
    Two travel tips-
    When taking trams between terminals or parking, walk to the furthest end of the tram possible. Most people get on as soon as possible, making your car emptier and easier to navigate. (Ex. Pittsburgh’s Airside-Landside Tram, walk to the end and you’ll have the car to yourself and you’ll be closer to the terminal or baggage).

    Currently Southwest doesn’t charge a change fee. This’ll allow you to modify your flight if rates drop. Over Christmas I saved $88 by changing my flight twice, and arrived earlier. I used the credits to fly to Pittsburgh next weekend to watch the Superbowl with friends and family.

    Challenge 2:
    Creeped: Stalking someone via the internet; I creeped him last night and saw that he was “in a relationship” on facebook.

    Challenge 3:
    I can lick my nose. I’m awesome like that

    posted by erin on 1-23-2009 at 2:58 pm

87. Challenge #1: This one is pretty common, but can’t be overestimated. When you’re looking for a good restaurant in an unfamiliar town, pick the one that’s got a full parking lot. It works every time.

    Challenge #3: I cook a lot, and no matter what I’m doing or where I am in the house, I will walk back into the kitchen to check on the cake/chicken/steaks/cookies/rice/soup/you name it RIGHT at the moment when the timer goes off. It’s uncanny.

    posted by Kristen on 1-23-2009 at 3:09 pm

88. #1

    Duct tape and masking tape can always come in handy while traveling. Instead of lugging around a big thing o’ tape, grab a pencil and roll some tape around it until you got yourself a mini roll of tape! This easily fits in a pocket, purse, suitcase or backpack

    NEVER EVER (EVER!) get rid of your student ID card! Just because you graduated from undergrad four years ago doesn’t mean you shouldn’t knock a few dollars off your entrance fees! If you’ve already lost or thrown out your student ID, enroll in grad school! Not only will you save money for the next fifteen years but you may snag yourself a new career as well!

    Worried about getting your wallet snatched out of your purse or backpack? Not wanting to lug around a big padlock or always losing those tiny keys to the diary-size locks?? Try twisty ties!! You can pick these up at any grocery store for free in the bakery or grocery sections. String them through your zipper pulls, twist and go! They are strong enough to resist someone ripping open your bag but are easy enough for you to untwist to access your wallet! These free, easy doodads are perfect for travel! And they take up zero room! Just don’t forget to take a couple extra in case you lose one!

    posted by Talya on 1-23-2009 at 3:12 pm

89. #1 — For Americans traveling internationally — Bring your own toilet paper! We quickly realized that the very soft toilet paper we were used to is just laughable in other parts of the world, where I would probably compare their toilet paper to say….a brown paper bag. okay, it’s a little better than that, but not by much.

    #2 – pretaliate — when you know someone is going to do something to you/attack – then you attack them first rather than waiting to retaliate

    #3 – I don’t know if this qualifies, but everyone I know thinks it’s weird: I have pretty strong and flexible toes. Watch out! I might pinch you with them!

    posted by Sarah on 1-23-2009 at 3:13 pm

90. Challenge #1

    A great destination that will help increase ones savings and intelligence while having fun would be Prague, Czech Republic. I know it seems odd, right?

    Bare with me for a moment. One U.S. Dollar is equal to about Twenty-one Czech Koruna. On top of that, The Czech Republic takes pride in enthusiastic beer chugging! Hence, they have cheap beer! I know that doesn’t help your intelligence, but it does increase the fun level along with saving money to have the fun!

    Ok so you want to feel smarter? Prauge has a plethora of attractions. I won’t point them all out, so don’t worry. There are two, though, that I will. There is the Astronomical Clock and the fantastic museums that litter the city. You’re sure to find an educational experience there!

    So, all in all, I’d chose Prauge for this challenge. It’s a great destination for all!

    posted by Robert Hughes on 1-23-2009 at 3:19 pm

91. Ok, sorry to go off topic, but some people are suggesting slip-off shoes or sleeping pills for airplane travel – BAD IDEA!!! If you have been following the news recently you know that you can survive a plane crash and chances are you will need to be alert and jump and move quickly away from the crash. Sorry for the rant.

    posted by Diana on 1-23-2009 at 3:23 pm

92. I love colorful socks. Unfortunately, they tend to be more expensive AND poor quality. So once they’re too full of holes, I tie them to the handles of my suitcases (launder them first). NO ONE ELSE has a rainbow-colored knee high toe sock marking their luggage.

    posted by Katie on 1-23-2009 at 3:40 pm

93. 3. I can name all 50 states in alphabetical order in 14 seconds.

    That’s not really a cool superpower, but hey. It’s what I got. :)

    1. Plan as if you’ll only have your carry-on bag. Put all the essentials (passport, trip itineraries, money, etc.), toiletries, swim suit (if you’re going to a beach destination), change of clothes, etc. in your carry-on. You never know when you’ll fly to an international destination and your bags will show up two or three days later.

    posted by Sarah on 1-23-2009 at 3:41 pm

94. My mom is not a traveler, but she went on a tour of Europe while I was living there. This is the list I made for her.

    1. Always carry a bottle of water with you.

    2. Never get on a plane, boat, or long bus ride without your own water and snacks.

    3. At the very least, learn how to say “Hello, do you
    speak English?” in the native language. Saying it in
    English makes people mad.

    4. Don’t talk about politics. Most people in Europe like Americans but hate our government.

    5. Don’t say “This isn’t how we do it at home.” or “We do that better at home.” Common sense, but you wouldn’t believe how often I hear it.

    6. Do not bring Travellers Cheques
    - almost no one takes them anymore. Most big shops take Visa or MasterCard. The ATM machines work with most bank cards (bring 2 if you can) – ask your bank before you leave.

    7. Let the credit card companies that you plan to use know that you will be out of the country. Otherwise, they might temporarily suspend your card thinking it was stolen.

    8. Bring a book – books and magazines are expensive here.

    9. Do not put anything sharp (scissors, pocket knife, nail file, etc.) in your carry-on bag – airport
    security will take it.

    10. Don’t trust children (especially ones around waist high) – if they approach you then they are probably pickpockets.

    11. Never put your purse, wallet, backpack, etc. anyplace where you are not touching it when you are out shopping. This will not stop pickpockets, but it gives you better odds.

    12. When in doubt, ask a local – most of them will be happy to help you.

    13. Do not keep all your money or credit cards in one place.

    posted by Shannon on 1-23-2009 at 3:42 pm

95. #1 When my family lived in Europe, we found that we had far more time available to travel than we had budget for travel. One way that we brought the two closer together was to make our first priority to find the local grocery store. Whether we were just buying bottled water and snacks or a bottle of wine and and some cheese for lunch, it saved us hundreds of dollars by not having to pay 4 Euro for a cool beverage.

    And it works in nearly every city IN THE WORLD.

    posted by Troy on 1-23-2009 at 3:44 pm

96. I don’t really have superpowers so much as little mutations. First and foremost are my pinkies. They’re unusually short (the top of them only reaches the second knuckle of my ring finger vs. the third knuckle for most people). Not only are they tiny, but when I make a fist there’s a little dent where my knuckle should be. The only real adaptation I’ve had to make for it involved the way I held a bow when I played violin in school. It does make reaching some notes on both violin and guitar a little difficult, but it’s easy enough to work around. My live-long-and-prosper hand sign, however, never looks quite right. Oh, and gloves never fit correctly.

    Second, I’ve got uneven feet. Well, it’s mostly just my big toes. On my right foot, my second toe is taller than my big toe, and on my left foot, the big toe is taller. It’s not a problem or anything, just fun to show off.

    Finally, the closest thing I have to a power is my bellybutton trick. My bellybutton is an inny (innee? in-y?), but I can reach in, grab a hold of it, and pull it out. To me it seems like a fairly harmless little trick (I was shocked when I first realized that everyone else couldn’t do it, too), but it actually bothers/ sickens/frightens a fair amount of people. I’ve even on one occasion caused a guy quite bigger than me and all muscle run to the other side of the room because it freaked him out so badly.

    So yeah, not sure how much crime I’ll be fighting with those attributes, but it shouldn’t hurt, right?

    posted by Coaster on 1-23-2009 at 3:53 pm

97. #3 My superpower is that I can identify any family member or close friend by sound in a large crowd. I don’t mean by the sound of their voice, but by the incidental sounds they make like coughing, throat clearing, sneezing, etc. It really comes in handy!

    posted by Shannon on 1-23-2009 at 4:12 pm

98. #2. ‘Flashbang’ is normally a type of grenade thrown for distraction and dirorientation creating a bright light and a loud BANG! to make your retinas burn and your ears ring. ‘Flashbang’ in my house is a really loud and abrupt fart that not only burns our buttcheeks a bit, but causes people in the vicinity considerable harm.

    #3. I fool my fellow Americans by impersonating a member of ANY other country. I’ve BSed Belgian, French, Italian, Austrian, New Zealander, Canadian, Australian, Russian, Tajikastani, South African, Polish, Dutch… just about any predominately white country in the world. Why you ask? Because Americans have this interesting trait where if they talk or interact with someone from a foreign country it automatically makes their day COMPLETELY awesome. They feel cool, privilaged, and somehow smarter. I don’t know why it works… I am an American, myself… but I’ve always liked to make people smile and change people’s attitudes toward their day. When I discovered my superpower for accents and BS, I harnessed it and began saving the world one BS accent/personality at a time!

    posted by Kate on 1-23-2009 at 4:13 pm

99. #1:I’ve noticed that if you put labels on your plastic bags, listing what’s in them, the TSA is less likely to rummage through everything and mess up your packing scheme.
    #2: angstrom – the sweaty feeling after coming in out of the cold into a very hot room and believing you might go crazy if you don’t get your coat/sweater/scarf/gloves off RIGHT. NOW.
    #3: I can play most Six Degrees of Separation games in under 2 minutes.

    posted by Caitorade on 1-23-2009 at 4:19 pm

100. My travel tip is go to a neighborhood bar (dive bar) and ask them where to go and what to eat. Bartenders usually have great advice.

     I also have started listening to podcasts about cities and downloading walking tours on my iPOD. I rarely take the walking tour, but often listen to it on the plane or in the car. When I arrive, it is like I studied a map and I’m able to recall little facts about the touristy type sites because it is fresh in my mind. This worked great when I took my kids to Washington, D.C. recently. I had all kinds of little tidbit to throw out.

     Heather Dawn…I’ve started doing the exact same thing. Random words that make no sense pop into my sentences. For some reason I keep telling my kids to put thing in the refrigerator! It isn’t so horrible when I’m at home, but awful when I’m teaching. When the kids distract me I find myself telling them all kinds of weird instructions.

     My super power is that I’m a human compass. I just always know what direction is east. That little bit of knowledge doesn’t always do me any good, but I know where east is. The only exception is when I’m in Tampa, Floirda. For some reason, my sense of direction is off in that town despite it working perfectly on the rest of the west coast of Florida. Even when it is pitch black outside, I always know which way is east.

     I can also hear electricity in the wall and have a very keen sense of smell. My brother has the very same sense of smell and we’ve often left restaurants because of someone’s body odor and we’d be the only ones that could smell it across the room. People wouldn’t believe us and we’d have to send them over to sniff for themselves.

     posted by Karen on 1-23-2009 at 4:28 pm

101. 1) If you’re backpacking pack all of your clothes by type in cloth bags. That way you won’t have to rummage all the way to the bottom of your 70L backpack to find your jeans. Plus, then you don’t need a dresser.
     Bring a flashlight and some rope. Useful for reading at night, tying up your backpack so the straps don’t get broken on the plane and in combination for rigging up a lamp in your tent. Not to mention lasooing, if the need ever arises.
     Also, if you’re in Cusco Peru, go around the back of Santo Domingo cathedral at about 1pm, and you can sneak in the back door when they’re doing lawn maintenance and save the entrance fee- its a fabulous museum.

     posted by Andrea on 1-23-2009 at 4:57 pm

102. Challenge 1 (adjusted slightly)…I’m going for destinations that make you feel slightly more well-traveled than all the very well-traveled people around you. I’ve been to Timbuktu (lived in Mali for two years & took a boat trip there up & down the Niger river, eating fish caught along the way and chickens bought from villages we passed, and camping on the shore at night when we weren’t being assailed by a wind storm & forced to sleep in the boat).

     As many places in the world that people around me have been, it has never ceased to surprise someone when I’ve told them that I went to Timbuktu…especially since so many people think it’s a made up place.

     posted by Julie on 1-23-2009 at 5:04 pm

103. 1) On traveling in general:

     Eat and drink your way through wherever you are. Make it a point to talk to at least one stranger (local or traveler from a different place) each day. At least. If possible, ask them for advice on what you should see/try, as travel books will generally tell you the same touristy things over and over.

     Never, EVER travel with someone who constantly “forgets” to eat and won’t drink. Or who doesn’t like to talk. Or make decisions.

     Don’t over-plan; you won’t have time for the really cool spontaneous side-trips that just sort of happen.

     If in any way, shape or form possible, do NOT (EVER!) check your luggage. It will ruin your day. If you must check your luggage, always pack at least one change of clothes, your bathing suit, necessary toiletries, a book, essential money stuff/passport in carry on. Anything you need to survive on until they find your luggage in Bangladesh (or Antarctica, should you be traveling to Bangladesh) should be with you.

     You’ll find the best, cheapest and most authentic souvenirs by shopping at the local supermarkets. Real food eaten in the country, real wine consumed, real products used. Maybe not wrapped up pretty for tourists, but definitely not priced for tourists, either!

     On traveling standby:

     When traveling standby, don’t get too excited. Really. You’re probably not getting on. Be happy if you do. (If you do happen to get on the flight on the first try, in First/Business class without screaming children, your chances of having to make an emergency landing and getting trapped in that location are multiplied one hundred-fold). Take a couple of good books and locate your nearest bar/coffee shop. You’ll need both.

     Learn how to sleep in airports. Always pack a sheet/towel (Douglass Adams got it right!) to use as a blanket, pillow, lasso to escape from law enforcement, etc. The best places to sleep in airports are either in corners (so you can watch others/your luggage), or in chairs, if you’re lucky to find the benches without arm rests (Gatwick airport is very nice for this. Manchester is not.)

     Always try to travel through airports that are open 24 hours. (Example: Venice airport closes every night!) This way, if you’re traveling on a budget (broke-assed poor), every time you get kicked off a flight you won’t have to get a hotel room and afford transportation.

     (Re Captcha: Europe THRUST–Hell yeah!)

     posted by JenPo on 1-23-2009 at 5:14 pm

104. Challenge #1
     My family and friends and I like to dress in disguises when we go to the airport. Nothing major but for my cousin’s 30th we donned fake mustaches, a viking helmet, a Carmen Miranda hat and a horse mask. We didn’t have any problems with security but in hindsight I’m surprised we didn’t end up celebrating her b-day in Gitmo. So I guess my tip is don’t wear a disguise to the airport.

     Challenge #3
     My uncle could rub warts off. Not with force; he’d gently rub it with his thumb for about a minute while carrying on a conversation. A couple days later the wart would peel off like a scab.

     Also, I have the ability to step in every piece of discarded chewing gum left on the ground.

     posted by Charlie on 1-23-2009 at 5:20 pm

105. #3 – I hope this isn’t too personal/gross…

     My superpower is that I am apparently the second coming.

     Background: In the movie “Southland Tales” there is a baby that is born that never defecates or urinates because it is a more efficient being. Apparently the baby is the messiah.

     My story: Since I was a child I’ve pooped pretty irregularly, sometimes not more than once every 2-3 weeks. (I make that whole “girls don’t poop thing true) Also, I only urinate when I wake up and before bed. If I drink tons of water I will go maybe 1-2 times during the day, but even then not too often. While this tends to concern my mother, it’s been determined to be fine by several physicians. And it tends to be pretty convenient on long trips.. so I guess that translates to #1 – have superpowers that allow you to never need to use the facilities.

     posted by Bri on 1-23-2009 at 5:31 pm

106. I always use zip-ties to secure my checked luggage. They keep the zippers closed so your bag doesn’t come open during baggage handling, and you don’t have to worry about replacing locks that have been cut off if your luggage gets searched.

     posted by Caryn on 1-23-2009 at 5:37 pm

107. 2. My friend Caroline and I needed a way to talk about sex in mixed company without seeming crude. So we started calling it cake. “How many slices did you have?” “Was your cake delicious?” “Oh, you’re going to a party? Will there be cake?” Silly, but highly amusing.

     3. My superpower is TV ESP. I often experience visions of specific TV episodes/plotlines/movies, etc. Within 24 hours, the exact movie or episode will be on. And like Jon, I have the power of perfect quote, though I call it audiographic memory. Came in real handy when I worked at Blockbuster.

     posted by Chelsea on 1-23-2009 at 5:41 pm

108. 2. Titillate (n): A breast-related tardiness most common amongst males.

     posted by matt on 1-23-2009 at 5:58 pm

109. #1–I’d recommend couchsurfing.com to anybody looking to not only crash for free, but also to get to know the locals and get to see the non-touristy places. Great for US or international travel.

     I like to go sockless with my shoes, so bringing bandages or tape to cover my Achilles is always critical in preventing sores.

     I also like to carry a titanium spork with me, so I don’t waste plastic utensils eating on the run.

     posted by matt on 1-23-2009 at 6:05 pm

110. #1 – Fact: Driving at most large airports, as in to pick up friends, is a pain in the arse. (I’ve been in two minor fender-bender-hit-and-runs.)
     Fact: Hotels offer free shuttles from the airport, and hotels are designed for people to drive up to the front and park for a while.
     When friends ask me to pick them up at the airport (since I live 5 miles for a MAJOR one) I tell them to take a shuttle to a nearby hotel, call me once they know which hotel they will be at, and I’ll meet them at the bar (Drinks optional.)

     #2 – I use the word “flavor” to describe all kinds of non-olfactory variety. It is especially useful when trying to ascribe higher levels in addition to variety, for instance, to my rocket-scientist, star trek fan when I saw him at the Renn Faire: “You are just three flavors of geek, aren’t you.”

     #3 – I have the ability to get service personnel to actually provide service. When a flight was canceled, I was on four phones at once rearranging the whole vacation (including time off from work, the hotel, the car, the tours, etc.) and shift it by one day. I have also convinced several cashiers that I can use a credit card that does not bear my name because it ‘belongs to my husband’ or ‘it’s a company card’. My best was uses involve being compensated for less-than-adequate-but-not-horrific service; free wine/dessert at restaurants, suite upgrades at hotels, discounts at retail establishments. I try not to use it too often, because it seems to need time to recharge, and it is a good power to have in an emergency.

     posted by Melissa on 1-23-2009 at 6:06 pm

111. #3: I’ve been told by a lot of women that I have bedroom eyes. The creepy part is that most of the time I heard it from relatives.

     posted by matt on 1-23-2009 at 6:09 pm

112. 1. house swap! few americans do this and its an amazing opportunity to maximize your funds. there are plenty of online venues with which to arrange, or start simply with family and friends to get a feel for it.

     1. pack a lingerie bag or similar to stuff dirty socks and underwear into. pack another extra bag so you can bring plenty of souvenirs home.

     1. take a pair of socks on the plane. you can wear flip flops and still have warm feet while you fly.

     posted by lainie on 1-23-2009 at 6:11 pm

113. Challenge #2
     “Henry Ford”: to create a pass line to effectively move things from point A to point B.
     I work as a caterer at my university and when we have to move things quite a distance and don’t have a cart or anything with wheels to move things, we call out “Henry Ford” and everyone gets in a line to pass the items to their destination. Like an assembly line, everyone has their one job on the line and does not move from that position until the job is completed.

     We sometimes refer to it as “James Monroe,” but that’s a different story.

     posted by Laura on 1-23-2009 at 7:10 pm

114. (2)- I work in web site navigation and we get a LOT of spam in a variety of languages as well as friend requests from a variety of social networks. One day we had more in Spanish than we normally do and so I named it spamiol (spam + español). Since I have used that word for all spam and have even gotten co-workers and a couple of friends saying it.

     (3) My super power is being an Uber cheapskate. I pride myself on finding things at much lower prices than my friends pay. To the extent that many of them make it a point to take me on their shopping trips. As a result, my super power has a part “b” in that I have begun too accept gifts and be treated to lunch for my help.

     posted by Gabriel on 1-23-2009 at 7:27 pm

115. #2: Highlightation: an area or group of words that has been highlighted.
     Used in a sentence: Based on your highlightation in the book, I can see that you have picked up on many important points.

     posted by AnnMarie T on 1-23-2009 at 7:49 pm

116. 1- Rick Steves. I’ve developed a bit of a mancrush on him, especially after watching some of his shows on PBS. He does a great job of specializing on individual places to give great tips about communication, travel, food, etc on specific places around the globe. A must read (or watch) if you want to find an easy way to get around unfamiliar territory.

     2- you mean outside of “mancrush?” Don’t have any. No definition needed, but to see it used in a sentence refer to the above answer.

     posted by Scott on 1-23-2009 at 7:49 pm

117. Diana, yes, good point about the slip off shoes. I recommended shoes that were easy to slip on and off, but I personally don’t wear actual slip-on shoes. My sneakers are all tied in double knots so I can take them on and off without untying them, but they’re tight enough that yes, if I needed to flee a disaster scene I could do it. So I guess that’s a revision to my travel tips – wear sneakers. As opposed to, say, 18-hole Doc Martin boots!

     Whoa, my recaptcha was “ready $300,000.” I’ve never seen one about money!

     posted by amber on 1-23-2009 at 8:16 pm

118. Challenge #1, travel tip: Before spending money on internet cafes, see if there’s a public library nearby. Many libraries these days offer free internet access. [I've done this successfully in Miami, London and Rome...]

     posted by Lis Riba on 1-23-2009 at 8:22 pm

119. Challenge 1- I live in the Midwest and one of the best vacations I’ve ever taken was to St. Louis, MO (I know, I could hardly believe it either). The trip was only three days, but it was a blast, educational, and not very expensive. We drove there (5 hours), and first stopped at the St. Louis Zoo, which is small but really nice, and free. After spending a few hours there, we checked into the hotel, then, in the evening, visited the Gateway Arch. During the day, there is usually a long line and not worth the wait, but at night, the line is not nearly long and night view is amazing. The next day, we woke up early and drove an hour to Meramec Caverns, did a cave hike, then rented a raft and (without a guide) rafted for 4 hours down the Meramec River. Drove back to the hotel, cleaned up, and, even though we were exhausted, went to the City Museum, which is basically a 5 story Jungle Gym for kids and adults! (Greatest place ever, google it.) The City Museum is open til 1 am on weekends and we were there on Friday, and stayed til close. The next morning, on the way home (to Illinois), we stopped and visited the Cahokia burial mounds, which are right over the border, in Illinois. It was an amazing and moving site to see. I had three of my teenage nephews, and the whole trip (including food, gas, and hotel) cost around $700.00.

     Challenge 2- Cantaloupe: Not being allowed to secretly run away with your sweetheart with the intention of getting married, usually without your parents consent.

     Challenge 3- When I go to bed, I can put myself to sleep within 10 minutes, even if I’m not tired. I systematically clear my thoughts until there is just one left and then I clear it, and I’m asleep. Also, if I set a digital alarm and I look at the clock right before I close my eyes, I will wake up exactly one minute before the alarm is supposed to go off. It’s really freaky.

     posted by Mike on 1-23-2009 at 8:31 pm

120. 1. check roadsideamerica.com for interesting things near your destination.

     2. Verbing: using a noun as a verb, as in “Cowboy up.”

     3. decoding reCaptcha (rugged Williams, wasn’t that a movie with Fred Ward and Joel McCrae?)

     posted by PartiallyDeflected on 1-23-2009 at 8:40 pm

121. Challenge #1:
     If you have a permenant disability (eg severe hearing loss for me) get documentation from your doctor and apply for a FREE Golden Access Pass from the National Park Service. Good for life gets you into federal lands for free and 1/2 off user fees. Not screwed up and cant get an I Have Rights Card? A National Park Pass runs you nps.gov/fees_passes.htm

     Also camp everywhere, cook your own meals and watch out for crazy brits who mix sunny d and scotch.

     posted by Andy on 1-23-2009 at 8:44 pm

122. One of the biggest travel tips I ever ran across, especially for lone travelers, is to ask questions and be willing to talk to strangers. Not only does this make a more fulfilling trip, but can help you find the train station or your hostel without getting lost.

     I’ve had a local walk me all the way to the train station just for a chance to talk to someone different, and I’ve had a whole bus load of college students looking out to make sure I didn’t miss the stop for my hostel.

     It’s fun and educational. You just have to step out of your comfort zone, be humble, and willing to listen.

     posted by amber on 1-23-2009 at 9:08 pm

123. Challenge #1, travel tip: Before spending money on internet cafes, see if there’s a public library nearby. Many libraries these days offer free internet access. [I've done this successfully in Miami, London and Rome...]

     [And apologies if this comment gets posted twice; I submitted it an hour ago, but it doesn't appear to have gone thru.]

     posted by Lis on 1-23-2009 at 9:14 pm

124. One more travel tip. Just do it! Give up something else, make sacrafices somewhere else in your life and find the funds to do it. I have never regretted a trip, even when it didn’t go a planned!

     posted by Karen on 1-23-2009 at 10:09 pm

125. RE #1:

     For cheaper prices, especially on rental cars, always check the company’s web site as they offer deals and specials that sites like Expedia don’t offer.

     I have discovered that such web sites aren’t at all cheaper, and are sometimes more expensive, than the company’s site.

     posted by Sarah in CA on 1-23-2009 at 11:29 pm

126. #2

     Grog (verb)- to lie prone on the sofa watching mindless gameshows in a state extreme drowsiness

     ex. I grog on Sunday afternoons.

     posted by amy on 1-23-2009 at 11:29 pm

127. 1. Travel Tips:

     –Check out seatguru.com to pick the best seat on the plane. The website lists almost every airline (international ones too), and almost every type of plane each airline uses in their fleet. Each seat has information regarding pitch, and other facts you may want to know (noise etc.) They also have a comparison of seat pitches across airlines.

     –Also use Tripadvisor.com This website has thousands of worldwide locations listed (even a small town in New Zealand!), where members of the site can review hotels, attractions, restaurants etc. You don’t have to be a member to read the reviews. I have found several good hotels using this site!

     –Many airline lounges will sell a one-day pass to the lounge. If on an international trip, this can be invaluable, as many lounges include showers, food, drinks and internet. Prices range from $25-$60/pp.

     –Make a copy of your passport bar code page, as well as the front page and keep it separate from your passport (in case it is lost or stolen). Make sure you know where to find your country’s embassy wherever you travel.

     –For those who are married and quite attached to your wedding bands, buy a simple plain gold or titanium band and wear it when doing any risky activities (diving, skydiving, water parks).

     2. Stunt Band – as described in my travel tip above; the band I wear when I don’t want to lose my original wedding band/engagement ring.

     3. I have always said my superpower is sleeping (so many of my friends have issues with insomnia!)

     I can sleep anywhere, at any time, even if I just woke up. I have been known to fall asleep during one 30 second commercial!

     It comes in handy the most if I have a headache, any kind of body pain, or if I’m just bored.

     posted by Dawn on 1-24-2009 at 12:12 am

128. Challenge #2: It kind of bothers me when people mis-use the word “ironic”; particularly egregious is the song, in which the only ironic thing may be “a no smoking sign on your cigarette break” (which is, of course, hilariously ironic). My friend and I realized, however, that there was no good word for these coincidences that we wanted to call “ironic”, so we coined a portmanteau of sorts: “nironic”- not ironic. The noun, of course is “nirony”. The word works rather well and several of my friends have introduced it into general circulation; it’s even in my Apples to Apples deck as both a red and a green card. The evolution of the word “nironic” helps us retain the integrity of the word “irony” while keeping the unusual quality that near-ironic circumstances often have; it protects against over-use while creating a distinct class of meaning.

     “Nirony”, in my understanding, is not simply a statement of something as is. It is not the absence of irony but the word you use when something seems kind of ironic but really…isn’t.

     posted by Meg on 1-24-2009 at 12:13 am

129. My superpower is that I can play Led Zeppelin on my nostrils.

     posted by Son of Spam on 1-24-2009 at 12:34 am

130. #2 – My entry’s going to involve TWO words, as will become clear. Sorry if I offend anyone!

     BUSHWHACKED (State of being): the state many felt they were in after the past 8 yrs

     OBAMA-NATION : an ‘oronym’(rather than a NEW meaning, if I am being truthful)formed from abomination; an antidote for Bushwhack.

     posted by Anon Emous on 1-24-2009 at 12:38 am

131. #3… Amazing Talent:

     I am able to recite every lyric from every song AND every bit of spoken dialogue from the Original Cast Recording of Sondheim’s ‘Sweeney Todd: the Demon Barber of Fleet Street’!

     posted by Amy on 1-24-2009 at 12:43 am

132. #1 -

     Museums are really great educational places to go to, but there’s often pricey entrance fees. Plus, some of the best ones aren’t even necessarily located near enough to you to visit unless you go by car (or plane, if you’re thinking international) – which can lead to even more expense. So, how can you soak in the culture w/o cracking into your wallet and or using your passport?

     Hit the web- most places will have a nice amount of ONLINE exhibits! For example, just imagine the fun of showing a friend La Grande Jatte : (Kay! Seurat… SEURAT!)

     posted by Amy on 1-24-2009 at 12:54 am

133. I can spontaneously (without listening to the song) recall the lyrics to pop songs I haven’t listened to in over ten years. I’m pretty consistent, and the only factor is I have to liked the song enough to remember the lyrics in the first place, but I guess once I’ve memorized them, they’re set in stone.

     I would use it as a party trick, but I’m a horrible singer, so my talent ends up more embarrassing than impressive.

     posted by Beth on 1-24-2009 at 5:15 am

134. Challenge #2:
     Every family has it’s own language and I married into one that is quite unique. Whenever something is cute it is called “geeter.” As in, “look at the little geeter penguin!” Whenever someone in the family is clumsy or asks a “here’s your sign” question they are called a “Randy,” after a particularly odd uncle. My favorite, however, is “softie.” Really it’s just shorthand for “sorry for the inconvenience,” but it’s come to replace the word “sorry” in conversations. It’s kind of funny at family functions when someone spills something and says “Softie!” quickly while everyone else exclaims “Randyyyy!!”

     Challenge #3:
     Without Google’s help, I can correctly tie ANY celebrity to another within six degrees. It began with the ever popular Kevin Bacon version but no I can tie anyone in Hollywood to anyone else. This super power only becomes useful when I need an icebreaker or at parties. I have yet to be stumped.

     posted by Josh on 1-24-2009 at 10:49 am

135. Great job overcompensating!

     2. I just started a new school-based job, so I invented the word “paperworking” to make paperwork into a verb.

     3. I’m really good at rolling sleeping bags. I can stuff any rolled sleeping bag into any stuff sack effortlessly!

     posted by Jamie G on 1-24-2009 at 11:33 am

136. 1) Do NOT put toothpaste in your carry-on. Get there an hour before the plane leaves.
     2) Spork- An exclamation of dismay.
     3)A rather impresive vocabulary.

     posted by Sara on 1-24-2009 at 12:03 pm

137. #2
     When I was younger my dad and I had made up another word for ***hole so I could say it around people and they wouldn’t know my innocent self was swearing. The word we used and still use today was ‘quigley’…it comes in handy to have code cuss words

     posted by Jodie J. on 1-24-2009 at 2:59 pm

138. Challenge #3: As discovered in my college days, I can walk into any grocery store for the very first time and immediately know where the beer section is located. No signs, no employee help just my super ability to sense exactly where beer can be found without having to waste time walking through useless aisles of foods and nutritionally beneficial liquids.

     posted by Zeke on 1-24-2009 at 3:24 pm

139. O.k., let’s do it out of order, shall we?

     2A: Dodgacado: My sister and I came up with this one for that lovely 70′s-renaissance, avocado-hued paint color that was applied to late 90′s model Dodge trucks and sedans. The darker shade on two-tone jobs was “Dodgacado Peel.”

     2B: The Joe-Moe (or Jo-Mo, or any mix-and-match): Giving someone “the bird”, full on, arm extended and crossing under the other arm. My sister was down on the side lines wildly gesticulating to get my attention because she was next to Joe Montana. I, unaware of what she was trying to signal, graciously gave her the Joe-Moe, now named for the nearby superstar.

     2C: Fogo-Nogo: An American model truck or SUV that breaks down constantly. The rare times it does run, the term is “Fogo-Gogo.” Too explain why would just take too long.

     1: The Lightning Field in Quemado, NM (lightningfield.org). Visiting it makes you feel smarter, or wiser, or more in touch with the universe. Or just plain weird. Visiting it actually gave me my superpower:

     3: Longevity. Every day I realize I’ve set a new world record for how long I’ve been alive. I keep thinking the streak will end, but it’s been going and going for over thirty years!!!

     posted by TJ Hooker on 1-24-2009 at 8:07 pm

140. Challenge #3-I can recite the fifty states alphabetically in under 60 seconds! Impressive? Maybe. Useful? Not so much.

     posted by Lauran H. on 1-24-2009 at 11:44 pm

141. 2. Grunchy – to be grumpy & grouchy at the same time.
     “Are you grunchy today?”

     posted by jeanette on 1-24-2009 at 11:45 pm

142. #1: When you get to a new place and it’s time to eat, find a local and ask them where THEY eat. Same goes for bars, etc. Avoid most of the places in the travel books, because (due to the travel books) that’s where all the tourists go.

     posted by Ryan on 1-25-2009 at 5:49 am

143. #3: Here’s a completely useless Super Power… I can identify any celebrity voiceover in any commercial or cartoon movie within 1 minute. Did you know Zach Braff does Cottonelle toilet paper commercials as the voice of the golden retriever puppy? And Gene Hackman is the voice you hear whenever a Lowe’s commercial comes on? See?! Useless…

     posted by Wes Boggs on 1-25-2009 at 6:08 am

144. 1. When I was visiting the Cimetiere Pere Lachaise I couldn’t find a hand held map of the famous graves, so I took a picture of the map with my digital camera. It was really helpful getting me around that huge cemetery AND it is environmentally friendly.

     Another travel tip, you can ask the front desk to clean out the mini bar so you are not tempted to eat a 5 dollar candy bar. Instead fill it up with your own drinks, meats, cheeses from the local grocer. Great for cheaper travel.
     Even more ways to save, if you hotel has a coffee machine or tea kettle, you can buy cup of noodles. They cost less then 1 dollar, and in Asia they are rockin.

     posted by Tracy on 1-25-2009 at 8:38 pm

145. Miss C, you are soooooooooooooo cute. Goes great with Top Woman!! You really are! Congrats!!!!

     posted by DUKE on 1-26-2009 at 11:47 pm

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