the power of panoramic

I just found that my ‘carry-around’ camera (one that will fit in my purse, take video, and produces decent images) also has a panoramic setting. I just had to do a quick couple of tests…

Now that I’ve shared these photos, I need to go water the lawn (it’s been extremely dry here in the Ville and the grass shows it), and straighten the pillows on both of the sofas (sheesh — I should’ve done that BEFORE the test).

For the record — I find that I capture some pretty cool photos with my Sony Cybershot DSC-855, but that’s mainly because I actually have it with me. Low light photos without a flash become extremely pixelated (especially when zooming even a little bit), and a flash’s harsh light isn’t a look that appeals to me anytime or anywhere. You’ll rarely find me without my “good camera” when I know photos will be important…like Christmastime, or on vacation, or most any special event. But without my trusty lil’ Cybershot — I would’ve never captured the photo below! No way I would’ve lugged my other camera to Madison’s Chautauqua 2010, Festival of Art.

Hi & Bye

Of course I know I’ve been slacking and haven’t been here much. Yes, I’m sorry.

vapor is the new smoke

I acquired a pretty awful habit a very long time ago. I had my first cigarette while in Hawaii in 1980, and have struggled with quitting pretty much ever since. (Thanks a LOT, Jerilyn!) I hate the smell on my clothes, hate what it does to the inside of my house, and most of all hate the health-related problems that accompany this thing I really enjoy.

I remember my Dad smoking the day before he passed away. He could barely hold the thing to his lips, but still wanted to smoke. I swore then I would quit, and I have. More than once.

My son, Ben, who has always hated smoking (and has complained about me doing it for at least 15 years) tells me about blu cigs. I check out their website and spend my $59 bucks without a clue. So you don’t have to blindly spend $59 bucks, take it from me — if you smoke, it’s the best $59 bucks you’ll ever spend.

I’m not going to tell you that blucigs are as good (to me anyway) as the real thing — but I will admit that just sampling all the flavors sent in the starter pack had me nicotine buzzing, (menthol, vanilla, cherry, full-flavor, java), and my ashtray is still clean. Matter of fact, these hard slick blucigs slide around in the ashtray to the point I’m thinking about installing astroturf in the bottom of it. I’m wondering if I can patent that brilliant idea and make millions because I’m telling you — vapor is the new smoke.

My guess is the flavors will improve as these things grow in popularity. Right now there’s a distinct “taste” (for lack of a better word) that is in all the variety of flavors. Still, it’s a fabulous alternative — and I’m sure it’s easier to substitute these for the ‘real thing’ if you’re a light to moderate smoker. (From what I read, this alternative is also cheaper than tobacco smokes — I’ll let you know.)

snubbed

Have you ever went somewhere and saw someone you knew — waved and spoke to them and they ignored you? Well, that’s what happened to me this weekend, if you can believe that! Right there at the front door even.

I took a photo of these unresponsive dudes with my trusty iPhone, but they did nothing but smile. See if I acknowledge y’all in public again Brian and Dana!


(Taken at Grand Victoria Casino — turn your speakers DOWN if you click the link. Woah!)