What can you get — real estate wise — for a cool half-mill? That depends, of course, on where you live. The answer can range from more than 100 acres to fewer than 300 square feet. Put another way, a place where your outdoor cat can hunt night and day, or where your indoor cat can leap in a single bound from your stove to your sofa. Check out this interesting slide show, from The New York Times, that shows just what $500,000 will buy you in all corners of the country and in between (including Dallas).
 
Most people have heard the story of Sir Ernest Shackleton. An Irish-born explorer, Shackleton’s ship became ice-bound during an Antarctic expedition, and he and every member of his crew famously survived for more than a year. It’s a great story and photos can be found here. But another Shackleton-related discovery may soon see the light of day. In January 2010, conservators will attempt to dislodge two cases of Scotch whisky — meant for Shackleton and his crew on an earlier expedition— after more than 100 years. The story, including what will likely become of the spirits, here.
 
Looking at those pictures of Antarctic ice got you chilly?
A roaring fire could warm you up. Or, you could just set your toasty laptop on your knees, grab a blanket and check out these 15 ultra-modern fireplace designs. Bet you didn’t even know you could have fireplace-envy, did you?
 
NBC San Diego recently let three intrepid reporters document the “Top 10 Reasons California Is Better Than Texas.” Did we say intrepid? We meant ridiculous. Be warned: The simplicity of this link is likely to make a true Texans’ blood boil. But some of the comments will make you proud. And add yours to them. Please.
 
And one more: of all the 2009 Halloween costumes captured on the Internet, this is one of our favorites.

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