Tuesday, March 8, 2011

The other evening when we were relaxing around the fire, I took a picture of Milo with my phone. I rarely use my phone for pictures since I have a small simple camera that fits in my purse. I have never really wanted to upgrade to a bigger and more complex camera as I have so little patience for technical things. I don't even use Photoshop, although I enjoy seeing what people come up with. The pictures in this post were taken using an application on my android called Retro Camera. I think they are awesome.
The weather here seems to be warming up. It is 42 degrees as I write this and the sun is trying very hard to come out. I don't know what I would do outdoors besides take a walk as the ground is still frozen and we can expect more frosts and snow in the next few weeks. No sign of any of my bulbs coming up yet. I did sit down and order some vegetable and flower seeds from Renee's Garden. If you haven't been to this website, have a look. She has beautiful heirloom seeds and now has 2 cookbooks all about cooking with ingredients from your garden.
You would think that being in the city I would have to buy my vegetables at the grocery store {and I do, we have a marvelous selection year round}, but we also have some great farm stands. When I used to work in downtown Chicago, across the street was The Daley Plaza, named after our mayor. Fun events were always happening there and I walked through it everyday several times going to court. One of the things I loved best was the Wednesday Farmer's Market. Vendors came from all over, including Michigan and Indiana and sold fresh vegetables, flowers, jams and baked goods. Sly as I am, I found that if I was hanging around at closing time, I could usually score some free flowers.
While the weather still makes it too cold to do much other than sulk, I have a few projects going on in the house {other than the Laundry Project, a never ending endeavor}. I brought home a few frames from my Dad's house and I am in the process of painting them and then I am going to do some different things with them. I have seen so many great picture frame projects and I really want to start working on wall art for the family room. Remember that project? It is still waiting to be done as son Jeff is still at home while he house hunts. I'm not able to order furniture until he takes the furniture that is in there. After seeing the slip covered couch at IKEA, I have had that on my mind so I did a little research online and sound that JC Penney's has a beautiful white slip covered couch that I am really impressed with. But for now it is just a far off plan, depending on when my son moves...and I'd rather have him here.
Plans are being finalized on out trip to Asheville. I feel like the only person in the world who has never been to the Biltmore. Today I read a little more information on it and I can't believe all there is to do there, besides tour the mansion and gardens. There are many different types of restaurants and shops. I am wondering if I should bring an empty suitcase with me to bring my goodies home in. And The Husband has not stopped looking for things to occupy his time with, although I am really lucky that he likes to shop, maybe more than me if that's possible. He wants to take fly fishing lessons. I am still mulling that over. Believe it or not, I'm pretty good at fishing, being near all these lakes here in the Midwest. I mentioned the gourmet kitchen we have in our suite...maybe we will have a fish fry. I am also really excited that I will be meeting and having lunch with Penny from The Comforts Of Home. That is really going to be fun.

Well, this is just a random post as usual, I hope I didn't bore you. I am off to get some laundry done, even though the cleaning ladies do all the sheets and towels, somehow I feel the need to let them know I do something around here! lol! Have a great week! :-)

65 comments:

Penny from Enjoying The Simple Things said...

Love the picture of Milo by the fire! We are having a sunny day today and the temp is 48 degrees. Last week it was in the 60's and 70's.

I am sooo looking forward to getting together when you visit Asheville! I would love to hit a tennis ball around -lol. Not sure if I will be that well healed so soon, but keep your fingers crossed.
Hugs,
Penny

Theresa said...

I haven't been to The Biltmore House either... so you are not alone:) It is on the radar for me to pay it a visit! Milo is looking mighty cozy in front of the fire! I LOVE the Retro pictures, I have lots that look like that and they are my favorites! Enjoy your day my friend! HUGS!

White Ironstone Cottage said...

Love the retro pic's
I am going to try it
on some of my pic's
You need to come to California
and visit too

xo
Pam

Deb said...

What an adorable pic of Milo who seems to be enjoying the fire :-)
Have a wonderful time visiting with Penny!

Julie Marie said...

Love the little picture of Milo, a mini Tess!... and I love your photos... I just have a simple little Canon camera too, I don't feel any need to upgrade either (I refuse to read owners manuals!)... but your photos from your phone look great!... I too have never been to the Biltmore, but I know I would love it!... Fly fishing sounds great too!... xoxo Julie Marie PS Lucky you, maids! Jack has a maid too... ME!

Auntie sezzzzzz... said...

"I feel like the only person in the world who has never been to the Biltmore."

-chuckle- Nope, Hon. _I_ have never been to the Biltmore.

And cool Retro picture thing.

Gentle hugs...

Kathy @ Creative Home Expressions said...

Those pictures are great, Jane! I thought you did do something in Photoshop or some other program. Another day without snow is one more day closer to Spring in my book. So far, so good; we just had some rain recently, but I'd rather that than snow!

Low Tide High Style said...

I went to the Biltmore a few summer's ago for the first time ever, and it is truly that lovely! Not just the house, but the grounds and the surrounding area of Asheville! I love the picture of sweet Milo and the vintage photo effect. I have a Droid and will have to look for that app! Your frame project and plans for the garden all sound wonderful!

Kat :)

Amy Chalmers said...

I have never been to the Biltmore either, so you have plenty of company, except that now you are going!! Sounds fantastic! So fun to meet with Penny too! Do you both play tennis? She mentioned wanting to hit the ball with you, and that is great fun for sure. I will be meeting a blogger pal in April, Lori from Projects Plenty, and I am looking forward to that visit.

Sue said...

So far I'm really happy with my new camera. I stayed with the smaller version than I anticipated, I do like to keep it in my purse. It is a Canon Powershot SX130. It does some tricks my old Sony didn't and it has a much better zoom.

I love the picture of your pup by the fire!

Dreaming of Vintage said...

Great photos Jane! I was just reading about camera aps for iphones today. Can't wait to look into it! Have fun in Asheville, you're going to love it!
Kelly

Tricia said...

Milo looks so cozy by the fire. Your pictures look nice and vintage...I love the frames around them.

I just have to add that I've never been to the Biltmore either, so you aren't alone. Hope your week is going well :)

Unknown said...

D'gay Blondie ~

Milo looks soooo relaxed. You captured his leisure beautifully.

I want to TY so much for your sweet note & prayers re my hubby's serious illness ... it means a lot to me. We are not out of the woods yet & face another surgical procedure shortly. Your support I appreciate so.

Have a beautiful day~
TTFN ~
Huggers ~
Marydon

CSN GIVEAWAY ENDS 3/17

Tricia said...

Hi Jane! I just popped over to my blog and saw that you were leaving me a comment as I was leaving one for you. Funny.

Courtney ~ French Country Cottage said...

What a sweet pup by the fire!! I have never been to the Biltmore- bet it is absolutely stunning!! How fun to go!
Hugs, Courtney

petals and vintage said...

I have never been to Biltmore either , in fact I had never heard of it until now.

Loving your pics, they are really fabulous.

Pam x

Ticking and Toile said...

Sounds like you're ready for spring too!!! That's sad your son is moving....I DREAD the day my kids start leaving the nest......

Any couch slipcovered sounds FAB to me!!

Happy planting w/ your new seeds. I'm going to check out the site you recommended.

Talk soon!!

xo,
Shellagh

Hearts Turned said...

Wow--fabulous pictures with your phone--they're beautiful!

Well, I've never been to The Biltmore, either...sad! Love to go, though, so I'm excited to hear all about it from you!

Wishing you a lovely day, my friend...don't do tooooo much laundry!

Julie

Marianne said...

Love those retro pictures. I have just downloaded a similar app, but have yet to start playing with it. When I look at these picture I know I must try it out soon.
Have a wonderful day.

Anonymous said...

Milo's photo is beautiful. Love the other photos, too.
We have rain and forties. Not bad...considering.;-)

Sue said...

Well Jane, After you visit the Biltmore, I will be one of those people who haven't visited! It is never on the agenda when we go to the furniture market- there is never enough time! So I guess it will have to be a trip unto itself. I made my reservations for market today. I can't wait to see all the new stuff the manufacturers have come out with. It will be a whirlwind 2 1/2 days. Hope you and Penny have a mah-ve-lous time together. :-) Oh, Milo looks so cute! xo Sue

kara@elements-interiors.net said...

HEEEEY girlfriend! I have been SO MIA! We have been sick around here for like 2 months! I LOOOOOOOOOOOVE the sweet pic of Milo! LOVE our furry lil friends!

Missin you!

xoxokara

Karen thisoldhouse2.com said...

These are great shots, love that framework! ...

Debbiedoos said...

Jane those are some gorgeous shots with the camera phone! Enjoy your trip!

NanaDiana said...

Good shots with a phone camera! lol I just have a simple point and click and can barely manage that! I was NOT a picture taker until I started blogging!

We went to the Biltmore abourt 4 years ago. You will LOVE it. Make sure you pay the extra $ and do the "backlot" tour-you go way up to the roof area..and it is just a phenomena. We have been talking about going back on one of our swings to Florida. Have a wonderful trip , Jane! xxoo Diana

Lori said...

You are never boring ~ just saying! Love the retro camera ~ will have to look for the app for my new phone. xo

Suzann said...

Never boring. Always delightful.

I've never been anywhere -

Just sayin'

Lynn said...

Lovin' the pics Jane! When I first saw Milo I thought "that has a retro feel to it"-fun! Glad you're getting excited about your vaca, can't wait to see all about it:@)

Honey at 2805 said...

Great retro pictures! And Milo certainly looks at home in front of the fire. I've been lots and lots of places, but never to the Biltmore. Guess it should go on my bucket list like Maachu Picchu.

Anonymous said...

Hi Jane!

I have never been to the Biltmore House. I've only heard great things about it though. Definitely on the list of places to see. It sounds like you both will have a great time. Shopping, eating out, gardens... what could be better? :)

Have a great time with Penny!

Spring is on the way :)
hugs,
Michelle

xinex said...

How fun for you to be meeting another blogger, Janie. I know it will be an enjoyable meeting. Your photos turned out great, especially the one with Milo by the fire. I haven't been to Biltmore either so there are 2 of us now....Christine

Olive said...

Jane, the Android images are really good. I am glad your temps are warming up. Spring is bursting forth here and I am loving it. I am ready to plant some flowers. hugs♥O

Leigh of Tales from Bloggeritaville said...

Great pictures....esp the one of Milo!!!!! Enjoy your trip!!!

A Mare Of A Different Color said...

Once he is a fly fisherman then he can learn to tie flys. My Dad enjoyed that hobby for many years.You might even like because you collect little bits of stuff to use. :D

xx
z

Travel With Lulu said...

Wow that's amazing that those are phone photos. Gotta love technology!

Vicki said...

Love the retro feature. Add me to the list of people who have never visited the Biltmore! lol Hope it warms up soon so you can enjoy your garden. I'm looking to plant some herbs again this year but will probably not do veggies.

Maggie said...

there's something so comforting about seeing a dog lying by a cosy fire, isn't there?
Sounds as if you & Mr Blondie are going to be very busy in Asheville, it's years since we visited but I remember we enjoyed ourselves v. much.

Knitty said...

Milo looks regal, ruling his world and all. :)
You aren't the only one who has never been to the Biltmore. I've been scheduled to go 3 times but sick children or disastrous weather has intervened. Post lots of pictures for me after you visit.

Lou Cinda @ Tattered Hydrangeas said...

Jane, these pictures are fabulous! LOVE the one of Milo :)

You will love the Biltmore! I have been and loved it, but it was years ago and I want to go back!

It is so rainy and dreary here today! I am OVER this weather!

Lou Cinda

Unknown said...

Love the pictures! The one of Milo is so soothing and calm. That is a great app for your phone.

Asheville is on my list too. If you go in August, the Biltmore does a floral carpet. My uncle says its his favorite place in the south! Have fun.

Stacey said...

I see we're both taking pics with our camera phone:-). I have an android as well and love this vintage/retro app for the pics-will have to look into it. Sounds like you're keeping yourself busy indoors until the weather warms up more. Love that pic of Milo in front of the fireplace-so cozy! Have a lovely day my friend. XX

The Summer Kitchen Girls said...

OH Jane...you will have so much fun at the Biltmore :) What a nice get-away that will be...be sure to give Penny a big hug from us :) Love that little retro app....I was looking at it the other day, but I rarely take pics on my phone - I've got to get some practice with that one!!
Enjoy your day!
Karla & Karrie

Happy To Be/ Gl♥ria said...

Send me a cleaning lady ha ha!! Jane what fun going to Biltmore I always wanted to go there..maybe in my next life ha ha!!
We also still have snow here on my mountain top..just told Len last week I think it's time we think about moving..property gettin to be too much at our age to take care of (11 acres ) and many broken trees this year..lost of power every year also..Hope you have a fun visit with Penny girl..Hugs and smiles Gloria

Farmgirl Paints said...

i just got one of those phones. i need to see if i can get it to take shots like that. those were really great!

Picket said...

Hey girl...love those beautiful pics! We have a Farmer's market twice a week here in our town in the Summer time...I love fresh grown veggies!
I have never been to the Biltmore but Baby girl and her family has and they loved it!
It's been raining all day here so I got some painting done and even got cabinets hung in the laundry room....have a great week sweetie...Picket

Kristin @ My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia said...

I'm loving your pictures!
Enjoy the end of your week!
XO
Kristin

FRENCH LAUNDRY said...

Hi Jane,

I haven't been to Biltmore either, so you are not alone on that. I do love Ashville. I was there once several years ago. You will have a lovely time. And I love the retro picture of Milo. He looks so cozy.

Hugs,
Judy

Kat said...

I've never been to the Biltmore either. Maybe we should plan a blogger event there :) I'm really impressed with the photos that your phone produced, that retro application is really neat. You are going to have a ball in Asheville. I've heard it is a beautiful town, and sounds like there is plenty to see and do. Something to look forward to while you are waiting for the weather to break! Kat

bj said...

O, Blondie, you never bore me. I love reading your thoughts.
Your photos are great. Love Milo!!

I am in ENVY MODE over you and Penny getting together. I would LOVE to be right there in the middle of you two. What fun you will have. I know you will take lots of photos for us.
I am looking forward to seeing them.
Take care and know that I've NEVER been to the Biltmore, either and will probably never get the chance to go. :((
xoxo bj

hilary@oldhousetruelove said...

love those cool pics!!!!

Shellbelle said...

I LOVE the effect from your little Retro camera setting, that is way cool! The photo with Milo is stunning!

When I lived in California we had farmer's markets like that, but the one's here are pitiful, as is the produce from the market. I have to drive at least an hour to get to a real farm stand. There is a co-op in town, but is way out of my budget.

I have never been to the Biltmore either, but have it on my bucket list after reading about it on so many blogs. The fly fishing? Yea, I would definitely go for that!

Hugs

bikim said...

lovely post!
gorgeous photos!!!!
take care,
Rosa

René said...

Jane, you are not the only person who hasn't been to Biltmore. I haven't and I live in NC. Everyone says it is a wonderful trip. Excited for you.

Susie Q said...

Milo knows exactly where to find the best seat in the house!
It is snowing like crazy just now! When will Spring pop!
I am so excited to see you will meet with dear Penny!
Asheville is so beautiful and I know you will enjoy Biltmore!
Love,
Sue

Yvonne @ StoneGable said...

Jane,
You will LOVE Ashville! Take your camera! And be willing to spend tons of time!!!

Your pictures are fabulous! Vintage and so pretty! I love the nest... and of course Milo!
Yvonne

My Grama's Soul said...

Hi Jane....your pics are fabulous today.....have a great time on your little trip you have planned. Shop lots! LOL

Jo

Anonymous said...

Love the pictures, Jane... great effects! It looks like the snow is finally melting where you are, so things are looking up. :)
Your trip sounds like lots of fun, but you're not the only one whose never been... I haven't either... lol! ;-)
Hope you have a wonderful weekend coming up!
XO,
Jo

Tammy@Beatrice Banks said...

Ok, I see we have two things in common. I don't have a fancy camera and probably wouldn't be able to operate one anyway and secondly, I have never been to Biltmore either! Look forward to hearing about your trip! Pretty photos!

Pamela said...

I love the photo of Milo by the fire! I swear my blackberry takes better photos than my expensive camera!!

I want that Ikea slipcover!!
But then my boys will never be allowed on it..cheesy fingers and all !!

Your trip sounds like it is going to be great!!

Pamela xo

Bella's Rose Cottage said...

Hi Jane,
Sweet Milo has the best seat in the house, ain't a dogs life grand? Since I don't have a fireplace, I have a little space heater that looks like a woodstove my pups all pile in front of it, the littlest one barks if it's not on... 7 lbs of bossiness:-)
Hugs,
Bella

Rettabug said...

Hi Honey!! I'm hoooommmeeee! Missed *talking* with you!

Add me to the list of those who have not visited the Biltmore House & we were staying in mountain cabins on a golf outing nearby, even!! Nobody else wanted to go with me. :(

I take it you've had jury duty?? Must go back & read some of your older posts so I can catch up on your adventures.

Funny, but I bought seeds this week too! LOL Great minds....

Hugs,
Rett

Confessions of a Plate Addict said...

Hi Jane! Milo looks cozy by the fire! We've had a chill, but it's warming up again. I am excited for you about your trip! Have you chosen a B&B? Did you look at the Walnut Inn I told you about? Honestly, you would LOVE it! Happy weekend!...hugs...Debbie

Carrie @ Cottage Cozy said...

Beautiful photos, Jane!

La said...

Your pictures are awesome. I am looking forward to warmer weather when I can go to the framers market...I'll have to make sure I am hanging around at closing time. :o)

I did get online to check out the auction calendar. I see there are a couple scheduled for the coming weeks. Yahoo! I LOVE AUCTIONS!

Have a wonderful weekend! La

Pam - @diy Design Fanatic said...

My husband and I are thinking of going to Asheville to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary in May. He really wanted to take me to Italy, but I don't want to fly anywhere. He would also like to go to the Florida Keys, but I think it's too long of a drive! I hope your weather warms up a little soon. Ten more degrees would make all the difference in the world!