Filter Frenzy

Do you ever use your photo editing software to go beyond just adjusting the sharpness or the lighting levels? If not, you should definitely start exploring.

Over the weekend, the hubbs came home with flowers for me, my mom and his mom for Mother's Day. I of course thanked him, but then immediately whipped out my camera to start taking photos before these babies started wilting.

Here's one that I took and liked from my Mother in-law's bouquet. Just a little lighting and sharpness adjustment here.

Then since I had some time on my hands (a rare occasion) I started playing around with the filters. This is what happened...

The Sponge Filter...

I like the pattern it made. It makes it seem like the rose is made from fabric.

The Stained Glass Filter...

For this one I still used the stained glass filter but bumped up the cell size for a different effect...

I think that was a bit more interesting.

Then for this one I applied the Fresco filter.

I really like the moodiness of it. I think this is my favorite. Very artsy.

Not because I'm moody.

Just because I like it.

So, go ahead and try some filters. Let me know how it comes out!

Map, Schmap!

Let's say you're visiting NY and you're looking for some fun activities to do.

How about checking out a zoo? The Bronx Zoo in particular.

Need to get some extra info to plan your trip? Forget your traditional map. Try a Schmap!

What's a Schmap you say?

It's a fun online guide that gives you tons of info including maps, reviews and photos. Which brings me to my point. Yes, there is a method to my madness.

Usually.

If you go to Schmap.com and look for Bronx Zoo, this is what you'll find:

Do you see that photo? How could you miss it?!? I purposely circled it in purple so there wouldn't be any confusion.

It''s one of mine!! (of course there are other photos, but we're talking about mine right now) How excited was I when I received an e-mail from Schmap saying that they'd like to include my photo in their newly released edition of the Schmap New York Guide!!

There's even a mobile version so if you have an iPhone, you can still check it out. It'll look something like this:

There's even a link to my flickr account which takes you directly to my photo.

No - I'm NOT getting paid to tell you this, or even for my photo. I just thought it was so cool that someone wanted to use one of my photos for something!

Yes, it's these little things in life that make me happy.

That, and dill pickle potato chips.

Snap Happy In Columbus Circle

Yesterday I was able to escape to the city BY MYSELF for a few hours just to hang with my friend Pam, walk around leisurely, shop and have some lunch. A perfect afternoon.

I even decided to drive in. This is major for me! I normally NEVER drive in and always take the subway. I have to say, I LOVE the subway. Cheap, fast and easy. Always works for me! Today however, I knew our time was limited and I had to get down there rather quickly. Even quicker than a subway. So, I braved it and drove down. 18 minutes later, I was where I needed to be.

My "city girl" friends and I all have one major thing in common - we don't like to drive. Which is funny considering I lived in Florida for a while (still can't believe it) and had to drive at least 2 hours a day. We'll do anything to avoid it. Subway, bus, taxi, walk, bike - you name it. As long as it doesn't involve getting behind the wheel, we'll do it.

Normally the parking lots in the city are outrageous! I did however discover this really cheap lot on 62nd off of West End Avenue. I used to refer to it as "the $12 lot". I think it's the only place that is actually lowering their prices rather than raising them. Today it was $10 for 12 hours!

It is now officially "the $10 lot".

Of course I had my camera with me so I thought I'd share some random shots of the day.

We wanted to go to the holiday market at Columbus Circle but when we got there, we discovered there was no market. Must have ended right after XMAS. so instead we started out at Williams-Sonoma. UH! I just love this store!!

Look at this great mixer. I have one in black but as soon as it goes, I'm definitely buying this green one.

I liked this display also.

I think they were even on sale.

Then some random shots from walking around.

I'll be back down on Wednesday. This time with my girls.

Do I dare drive in again? My MetroCard might get jealous.