Another reason to switch to a MacBook

Gorgeous leather MacBook cases make you look old-fashioned and smart.

(via A Cup of Jo)

photos from Twelve South

Gloomy Monday

On a rainy gloomy dreary day like today (it's supposed to be Spring?), it makes me happy to look at this photo from our vacation in Cancun a month ago. It reminds me that the sun will come out again.

Magnolia Bakery Lite

H and I decided to go to NYC on an impulse last Saturday as the weather was just gorgeous! As we walked around Grand Central Station, we saw that Magnolia Bakery had finally opened their little branch in the Dining Concourse. I was really excited about finally being able to bring some cupcakes home without making a detour to the downtown store. Unfortunately, there seems to be a smaller selection of cupcakes here -- all I saw were vanilla and chocolate. They had other items but I wanted cupcakes, and the last and only time I was in their downtown store, there was definitely an abundance of flavors to choose from.

It was fascinating and educational watching how they were frosting the cupcakes. Next time I make cupcakes, I shall try their method. Who needs a frosting bag and a star tip when you can just use an offset spatula?

Maybe when we next go to NYC when my parents come visit, there will be more flavors.

Mapo Tofu

One of the reasons I love the coming of Spring is that it doesn't get dark till much later and I can actually photograph dinner in natural light! I have yet to master the art of taking nice food photos in our kitchen when it's dark already, so yay Spring!

This photograph was taken a couple of nights ago, and it's one of my staple foods for when I'm not feeling particularly inspired. It's easy and healthy (way more tofu than ground pork) and super tasty.

One more shot below. I really should iron the placemat, heehee. And wipe off the edge of the bowl. A food stylist I am not.

The sun is out!

Got back from Cancun a week ago and now spring (2 more weeks) is almost here! Ruche's San Miguel de Allende Spring 2010 lookbook is here and I'm captivated by all the items they're showing. I can't wait to start wearing lighter clothing!

One of the things that caught my eye is this straw bucket hat that is adorable without being too sweet.

Another one is this dress which I think I really must have. I can't tell if it's the styling that makes it so attractive. It looks super comfy on the model, but not as pretty by itself .

(pics via)