tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73522542024-03-14T04:59:50.215+00:00Fluffy StuffFood. Fun. Fashion. But not in that order.JellyGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01132193192359890663noreply@blogger.comBlogger549125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7352254.post-82697622269591837682011-07-15T15:39:00.000+01:002011-07-15T15:39:50.149+01:00Matt Stuart - fantastic street photographyWhoa it's become a ghost-town here huh? I've been spending more time on my <a href="http://jiakitchen.wordpress.com/">daily food blog</a> and have practically neglected this one. Still trying to decide if I should continue blogging or just leave this as an archive.<br />
<br />
While I mull it over, wanted to share some really cool photos I found (thanks to <a href="http://www.b3ta.com/">B3ta</a>). Matt Stuart has a wonderful eye for the quirky and funny in his beautiful and often funny photos. I'm amazed at his timing. These are some of my favourites:<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/MattStuart_TrafalgarSquare.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/Matt_Stuart_5thAvenueCop.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/16.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/03colour.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/7.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/05.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/rainred.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<i>All pictures from <a href="http://www.mattstuart.com/">Matt Stuart</a>.</i>JellyGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01132193192359890663noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7352254.post-11412616437173093552011-04-18T17:16:00.000+01:002011-04-18T17:16:22.528+01:00Remembering the Royal WeddingLondon is awash in lots of cheesy memorabilia commemorating the wedding of Prince William and Kate, but today, I bought what I think is the best of the lot.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_3150.jpg" /><br />
<i>A paper doll book!</i><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_3151.jpg" /><br />
<i>"Use the figures of HRH Prince William and his bride Kate Middleton at the centre of this book to decide which social occasion you would like them to attend!"</i><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_3152.jpg" /><br />
<i>The now-famous blue Issa dress is of course in the book</i><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_3153.jpg" /><br />
<i>There's even outfits for walking in the country.</i><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_3154.jpg" /><br />
<i>Wills and Kate "love indulging in a spot of shooting, walking or riding in the countryside".</i><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_3155.jpg" /><br />
<i>I love that Kate is not wearing a bra, but is conservatively dressed in a camisole, while Wills is showing us his fun patriotic side with Union Jack boxers.</i><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_3156.jpg" /><br />
<i>It's important to have the right outfit for every occasion.</i><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_3157.jpg" /><br />
<i>Very garden-appropriate</i><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_3158.jpg" /><br />
<i>"It's a right royal riot!"</i><br />
<br />
The book also has their interpretation of THE wedding gown. Let's see how accurate it is come 29th April! I almost want to buy another book so I can actually cut out and play with the paper dolls.JellyGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01132193192359890663noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7352254.post-2971845707304509492011-04-12T21:27:00.000+01:002011-04-12T21:27:50.717+01:00Flowers flowers flowersWe've been spoilt with beautiful weather for the last 5-6 days, with blue skies, blazing sunshine and temperatures that went into 21 deg. This, coupled with the blossoming of all the trees in spring, just makes me take pictures and pictures of flowers. I love spring. :)<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2727.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2728.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2914.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2913.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2749.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2761.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2857.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2858.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2777.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2776.jpg" />JellyGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01132193192359890663noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7352254.post-85573601385353296642011-04-03T18:12:00.001+01:002011-04-06T12:44:55.051+01:00Addicted to skiing<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/ski1.jpg" /><br />
<i>13 boarders, 3 skiiers</i><br />
<br />
It's taken 3 years for me to go on a ski trip since moving to the UK, and I can't believe it took that long. A large group of us took off to the Dolomites in Italy for a quick weekend trip, where we skiied and ate huge amounts of pasta and pizza. Having only skiied once about 20 years ago in Verbier on a family holiday, I wasn't sure how much I'd remember. Turns out it's like driving a car - you don't really forget. All I needed was one refresher lesson on the first morning, and after that, I was good to go. I'm incredibly proud of myself for going up into the mountains and doing the red runs. Sure, I tumbled quite a few times, and I was a little scared to go fast, but by the third day, something clicked and I was able to conquer my fear and just let go. My favourite part was high up in the mountains, where the snow was powdery and we descended gradually while being framed on each side by magnificent trees. Truly magical. I can't wait for the next trip.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/ski4.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/ski5.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/ski11.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/ski3.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/ski8.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/ski6.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/ski7.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/ski10.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/ski9.jpg" />JellyGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01132193192359890663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7352254.post-5017526609128351312011-03-10T23:07:00.000+00:002011-03-10T23:07:12.314+00:00Sweet in SingaporeIt's rather shameful to be posting pictures of my visit back home to Singapore 2 months late, but oh well...the last visit, which lasted 3 weeks, was another wonderful visit where I got thoroughly spoilt by family and friends. It felt harder to leave this time, and the feeling of homesickness took a little longer to leave me. Luckily there are always the pictures and memories of sweet things back home.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/sweets1.jpg" /><br />
<i>The sweet finish to a decadent high tea at the Shangri-La</i><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/sweet2.jpg" /><br />
<i>A pretty setting for cake at Barracks in Dempsey. Sadly the cake didn't live up to my expectations.</i><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/sweets3.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/sweets4.jpg" /><br />
<i>Tantalising display of pastries at my favourite bakery Bread Society</i><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/sweets8.jpg" /><br />
<i>I got hooked on Gong Cha bubble tea. </i><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/sweets6.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/sweets7.jpg" /><br />
<i>Sharing desserts at Ootoya</i><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/sweets9.jpg" /><br />
<i>My favourite Japanese dessert is cream anmitsu. This is from Sun with Moon at Wheelock Place.</i><br />
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<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/sweets5.jpg" /><br />
<i>A taster plate at Osvaldo</i>JellyGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01132193192359890663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7352254.post-35726448520951088462011-02-24T14:34:00.000+00:002011-02-24T14:34:36.107+00:00Club Monaco Spring 2011<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/54a9d17debc067aa_6preview.jpg" /><br />
Club Monaco is overpriced, but it doesn't stop me from loving their collections. The Spring lookbook has lots to love for a casual but polished daytime look - maxi-skirts, lace, white, a touch of sparkle, undone unfussy hair.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/871d1eff60606eef_33preview.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/b911d4d2e0e82fba_8preview.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/33cc356826ae7336_15preview.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/0d152181b70146f6_37preview.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.fashionologie.com/Club-Monaco-Spring-2011-Lookbook-Part-2-Featuring-Lou-Doillon-Lauren-Hutton-14396329?page=0,0,0#0">More looks on Fashionologie</a>JellyGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01132193192359890663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7352254.post-66124797743057469412011-02-20T21:22:00.000+00:002011-02-20T21:22:26.296+00:00Sunday at the V&A MuseumI went to the V&A Museum today with a friend to catch the <a href="http://www.vam.ac.uk/collections/asia/imperial-chinese-robes/">Imperial Chinese Robes</a> and <a href="http://www.vam.ac.uk/collections/photography/shadow-catchers-camera-less-photography/">Shadow Catchers</a> exhibitions. Because both exhibitions had timed entries, we found ourselves in the Medieval & Renaissance section to kill half an hour. Despite the many times I've been to the V&A, this was my first time upstairs. I keep saying this, but I really need to visit this museum more often.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_0704.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_0706.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_0705.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_0707.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_0708.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_0709.jpg" /><br />
<i>All photos taken with the iPhone </i><a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/morelomo/id337217082?mt=8"><i>Morelomo</i></a><i> app.</i>JellyGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01132193192359890663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7352254.post-11292607850316902402011-02-20T00:42:00.001+00:002011-02-20T00:44:24.050+00:00The girl who levitated through Tokyo<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/img_5af90abe8b16ff1a02f622882f611f8fff6a3200.jpg" /><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">All photos taken from <a href="http://yowayowacamera.com/">yowayowa</a></span></i><br />
<br />
One of my friends loves to take photos of herself jumping, so we started a mini-series of us jumping in various locations around Europe. However, our photos are nothing like this delightful series of 'levitational' shots of a pretty girl in Tokyo.<br />
<br />
What I love about her photos is how serene she looks in her levitations. She really does make you believe she's walking on air.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/img_683a5bc5eeb9425df81f9de4ab06d4f6615ea9ae.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/img_2a37881b58c6e67bd35917dbe1b0ba2790ab1cda.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/img_9a24ed3d939fae62590a2ec3f171b7e7ebe518f7.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/img_3d953dacb459b3d2c9530213e194a2ee70d08ded.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Also, I can't help but compare her to one of my favourite animes <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0808506/">The Girl Who Leapt Through Time</a>.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/leap.jpg" /><br />
<br />
See the resemblance? Maybe she can leap through time. :)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://yowayowacamera.com/"><b>See her blog</b></a> (also with lots of cute photos of her cat)JellyGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01132193192359890663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7352254.post-70817772676371771192011-02-14T18:30:00.000+00:002011-02-14T18:30:55.616+00:00Quick trip to L.A.<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2494.jpg" /><br />
<i>Along Santa Monica boulevard</i><br />
<br />
I had to go to L.A. for a last minute work trip last week, which was a pleasant surprise. Aside from the extremely long time it took to get out of LAX and having to contend with the culture of tipping, I had a really great time. The work part of the trip went well, and I managed to slip in a job interview which ended well. It was also so nice to enjoy the Californian sunshine and explore Santa Monica. I'm hoping I get more trips back there in the near future!<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2512.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2555.jpg" /><br />
<i>Pancakes and eggs for breakfast at the IHOP next to my hotel</i><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2517.jpg" /><br />
<i>Walking along Santa Monica Pier</i><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2522.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2520.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2525.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2532.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2540.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2542.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2511.jpg" /><br />
<i>I love Pinkberry! Especially the blood orange flavour and added extras of mochi</i><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2538.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2536.jpg" /><br />
<i>I had to buy $4 flip-flops from CVS Pharmacy after getting blisters from walking around in heels.</i><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2551.jpg" /><br />
<i>Having the signature umami burger and sweet potato fries at <a href="http://www.umamiburger.com/">Umami Burger</a>. No one does burgers like the Americans.</i><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2492.jpg" /><br />
<i>Eating lots of cake at champagne brunch at the Beverly Hilton</i>JellyGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01132193192359890663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7352254.post-52801902170589050112010-12-20T00:22:00.000+00:002010-12-20T00:22:53.018+00:00Feet firstRedoing my blog header has made me realise I've amassed quite a few photos of my feet over the last couple of years. Another interesting observation in going through my albums is that I don't seem to take pictures of my feet when wearing heels. Perhaps time to start another collection?<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/feet1.jpg" /><br />
<i>At the Kenwood Festival (Shoes: Havianas)</i><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_0828.jpg" /><br />
<i>Summer in Paris (Shoes: <a href="http://www.mitju.com.sg/">Mitju</a>)</i><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_1654-1.jpg" /><br />
<a href="http://ditzyspice.blogspot.com/2010/10/rainy-saturday.html"><i>Previously posted before</i></a><i>, walking around Regent's Park (Shoes: <a href="http://www.sarenza.co.uk/bensimon-women-shoes">Bensimon</a>)</i><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_3262.jpg" /><br />
<i>A very rainy spring day on my street (Shoes: Hunter)</i><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_1575.jpg" /><br />
<i>On the beach in St Tropez (Shoes: au naturale)</i><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_0743.jpg" /><br />
<i>Country walk along the Seven Sisters (Shoes: <a href="http://www.obozfootwear.com/site/xdpy/ss/Womens.html">Oboz</a>)</i><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_1050.jpg" /><br />
<i>An accidental shot while cooking in </i><i><a href="http://ditzyspice.blogspot.com/2010/07/in-which-i-entered-masterchef-style.html">NomNomNom</a> (Shoes: <a href="http://www.padini.com/brands/vincci/intro.aspx">Vincci</a>)</i><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2867.jpg" /><br />
<i>Laughing in the mud over Easter in Axminster (Shoes: Hunter)</i><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_1208.jpg" /><br />
<i>Eating razor clams at the Whitstable oyster festival (Shoes: Havianas)</i><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_0502.jpg" /><br />
<i>Walking off some chocolate high tea near Knightsbridge (Shoes: Hush Puppies)</i><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_1822.jpg" /><br />
<i>Very tanned and dusty feet while touring the Acropolis in Athens (Shoes: Havianas)</i><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2063.jpg" /><br />
<i>Pausing for a moment in our rented house in Galatina (Shoes: <a href="http://www.kurtgeiger.com/brands/carvela">Carvela</a>)</i><br />
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<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/feetlast.jpg" /><br />
<i>Crunching through snow this morning on the common (Shoes: Hunter)</i>JellyGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01132193192359890663noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7352254.post-92113017154891595762010-12-18T20:37:00.000+00:002010-12-18T20:37:11.706+00:00Snow day Saturday<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_0448.jpg" /><br />
<i>(Taken with iPhone) Scene from the bus along King's Road</i><br />
<br />
After a week of 'balmy' weather, the snow is back. And very pretty it is! The snow fell thick and fast and very quickly, everything turned white.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_0444.jpg" /><br />
<i>11.30am: Came out of the gym to a veritable blizzard.</i><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2121.jpg" /><br />
<i>2.20pm: On the bus somewhere near Sloane Square on my way to Walthamstow for tea.</i><br />
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<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2127.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2123.jpg" /><br />
<i>3.30pm: I made it! Settling in for a very special Christmas tea. Heaven.</i>JellyGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01132193192359890663noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7352254.post-67163129966285897252010-12-17T23:23:00.000+00:002010-12-17T23:23:04.958+00:00A new lookI realised the header hadn't been changed in over a year. This time, I felt I'd do something without food, so I used a photo I took earlier this year when the cherry blossom trees were shedding all their pretty petals. It was really rainy that day, so I took the opportunity to wear my newly-purchased Hunter wellies.JellyGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01132193192359890663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7352254.post-34873199761247926942010-12-10T16:19:00.001+00:002010-12-10T16:20:13.037+00:00Little pleasures for the season<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2093.jpg" /><br />
A good book<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2096.jpg" /><br />
A <a href="http://sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P274715&categoryId=C10462">delicious-smelling shower gel</a><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2098.jpg" /><br />
A <a href="http://www.asos.com/Asos/Asos-Furry-Bear-Ears-Beanie/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=1262252&cid=6449&Rf-400=53&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=20&sort=-1&clr=Grey">woolly beanie</a> to keep the ears warm<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2099.jpg" /><br />
A desktop decoration to make me smile<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2097.jpg" /><br />
A set of <a href="http://www.shuuemura.co.uk/collections/abracadabra-fantasy/magical-windfalls-partial-false-eyelashes.aspx">fun eyelashes</a> for parties<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2100.jpg" /><br />
A pair of <a href="http://www.tabio.com/uk/">shearling cuffs</a> for bootsJellyGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01132193192359890663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7352254.post-28611535565292248652010-12-02T13:02:00.000+00:002010-12-02T13:02:48.989+00:00Early birthday dinner at Sushi of Shiori<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_0400.jpg" /><br />
I might not have mentioned this before, but <a href="http://www.sushiofshiori.co.uk/index.html">Sushi of Shiori</a> is my favourite sushi restaurant in London. If I could afford it, I'd be eating there omakase every week, but as it is, I've had to settle for monthly visits. I never get tired of the beautifully crafted and delicious food there. And it helps that the owners are so incredibly friendly and charming. My friend brought me there last night as an early birthday present. What a treat!<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_0394.jpg" /><br />
<i>Starting off with abalone with aubergine</i><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_0397.jpg" /><br />
<i>Tuna tataki, followed by seabass soup, which I didn't get a picture of</i><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_0398.jpg" /><br />
<i>The sashimi plate never fails to delight me with its prettiness</i><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_0402.jpg" /><br />
<i>Nigiri</i><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_0414.jpg" /><br />
<i>Hitomi said this was a new dish. A neatly wrapped parcel to reveal...</i><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_0406.jpg" /><br />
<i>Steamed sushi rice with tamago, unagi and bits of chopped mushroom. Very satisfying for this snowy weather.</i><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_0408.jpg" /><br />
<i>Wagyu nigiri - one piece per person</i><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_0410.jpg" /><br />
<i>Off the omakase menu, but we decided to have some uni because it's back in season</i><br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_0412.jpg" /><br />
<i>Finishing off with homemade chestnut ice-cream and ginger tea</i><br />
<br />
Oishi!JellyGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01132193192359890663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7352254.post-20868045818577549962010-11-23T21:20:00.000+00:002010-11-23T21:20:12.894+00:00Christmas came early thanks to Lanvin x H&M<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/photo-2.jpg" /><br />
I was convinced the massive queues outside H&M at Oxford Circus this morning would mean everything would have sold out in minutes, so I wasn't expecting to find anything when I wandered into H&M during my lunch break. Was so pleased to find the pouch which was in my <a href="http://ditzyspice.blogspot.com/2010/11/all-i-want-for-christmas-and-my.html">wishlist</a> and bought what appeared to be the last one on the shelf. Happy early Christmas to me! :)JellyGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01132193192359890663noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7352254.post-34110149772373913982010-11-17T19:43:00.000+00:002010-11-17T19:43:08.623+00:00Sweets from Pasticceria Ascalone, Galatina<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_1921.jpg" /><br />
It was the shopfront that attracted me first. The old-fashioned door, lace curtains, enticing baked goods on display and a tantalising peek of the interior's equally old-timey counter and patchwork floor had me hovering outside for a few minutes. I watched as people went into the shop and came out with little neatly-wrapped packages. The village shuts down after lunch for siesta. Was the place still open? Finally, I gathered my courage and went in.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/ascalone3.jpg" /><br />
<br />
As it turns out, my fear of speaking Italian was unfounded. Much can be achieved by pointing and using your fingers. The lady at the counter was very smiley and friendly, and the baker himself, a big man in white with his apron still on, came out and wrapped up my purchases himself. In 5 minutes, I walked out with a little neatly wrapped package of my own. They'd tried to explain to me what the pastries were, but with my masterful command of the language, only got as far as understanding they were cream-filled.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/ascalone5.jpg" /><br />
<i>Little biscuit with ground almonds and dates</i><br />
<br />
Later on, I found out that almonds are used a lot in desserts in Puglia, and this pasticceria specialised in old recipes passed down from generation to generation. The Ascalone family has been baking these almond biscuits and cakes and pastries for years and years, and have not changed the recipe in any way. Everything I tried was delicious, and I wish we had more bakeries with such a history in London or even Singapore. There's a lot to be said in heritage and keeping it alive.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/ascalone4.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/ascalone6.jpg" /><br />
<i>Delicious cream-filled tarts</i>JellyGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01132193192359890663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7352254.post-73717845552305140752010-11-16T17:11:00.001+00:002010-11-16T17:11:50.533+00:00All I want for Christmas (and my birthday)Interrupting my Puglia memories by compiling a little list of wishes. A girl can dream. :)<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/christmaswishlist.png" /><br />
<i>Clockwise from top: Tsumori Chisato for Petit Bateau top, </i><a href="http://www.reissonline.com/shop/womens/scarves/selina/black/"><i>Reiss pom pom scarf</i></a><i>, </i><a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Flavour-Thesaurus-Niki-Segnit/dp/0747599777"><i>The Flavour Thesaurus</i></a><i>, pink KitchenAid Artisan Mixer, Lanvin for H&M pouch</i>JellyGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01132193192359890663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7352254.post-81973085103134006282010-11-15T00:06:00.000+00:002010-11-15T00:06:39.518+00:00La Tana del Lupo, Galatina<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/lupo1.jpg" /><br />
The best meals we had were at a tiny family-run restaurant a minute's walk away from where we were staying in Galatina. It feels like you're eating in someone's home, what with the warm welcome from the husband (who does front-of-house and all the entertaining) and the wife (who does all the cooking), and fabulous home-cooking.<br />
<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/lupo2.jpg" /><br />
There's no menu here. Instead, just walk in and trust that you'll be well taken care of. When we went in for lunch, the husband plonked down a freshly chilled bottle of rose on our table. The wife came out and asked us in Italian if we had our appetites. That was a sign of things to come. Lunch was a good 3 hours, but oh, was it worth straining our tummies for.<br />
<br />
<b>Antipasti</b>: ricotta, aubergine, zucchini, pumpkin, artichokes, green beans, potato cakes, white bean mousse eaten with toast. That was like a meal in itself.<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/lupoantipasti3.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/lupoantipasti2.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/lupoantipasti.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<b>Primi</b>: A deceptively simple but totally tasty orecchiette eaten with a huge cake of fresh ricotta.<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/lupoprimi.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<b>Secondi</b>: The star dish was the beef, but the polpette (meatballs), meatloaf with pancetta and veggies were also bursting with flavour.<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/lupo_secondi.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/luposecondi.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<b>Dolci</b>: A massive bowl of fruit was placed in front of us. I decided to have kaki (persimmon) and an apple. A bottle of homemade coffee liquer was also brought out for us to enjoy<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/lupofruit.jpg" /><br />
<br />
We enjoyed lunch so much that we went back there again for dinner on our last night in Puglia. While lunch was very meaty, dinner was all about seafood. It was a beautiful way to finish our holiday.<br />
<br />
<b>Antipasti</b>: Prawns, mussels, langoustines, oysters, anchovies<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/lupodinantipasti1.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/lupodinantipasti.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<b>Primi</b>: A huge basket of seafood linguini was placed in front of us. Although I'd vowed to take it easy on the pasta, I couldn't stop myself from slurping up more and more of the linguini. How can you say no to perfectly al dente pasta?<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2082.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2081.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<b>Secondi</b>: Whole orata (gilthead seabream)<br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2084.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Pure seafood heaven.JellyGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01132193192359890663noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7352254.post-10078362968865499212010-11-13T17:44:00.001+00:002010-11-13T17:44:53.602+00:00Windows and doors in Puglia<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_1922.jpg" /><br />
Just got back from a week-long break in Puglia. It was a wonderful holiday, where I stuffed myself silly with delicious, inspiring food and met some absolutely lovely people. Puglia is located in Italy's heel, and isn't the most popular of tourist destinations. And I like it that way. The towns and villages still retain their rustic charm, buildings are crumbling, roads bumpy and the people genuine and warm. This feels like an authentic Italy, untainted by hordes of tourists and untouched by commercialism.<br />
<br />
I particularly loved looking at the windows and doorways while walking around the area. Pictures were taken around Galatina, Lecce and Gallipoli.<br />
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<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_1760.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_1871.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_1869.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_1872.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_1886.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_1882.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_1893.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2013.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2043.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_1952.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_1933.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_2017.jpg" />JellyGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01132193192359890663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7352254.post-72255283394181575022010-10-31T10:46:00.000+00:002010-10-31T10:46:52.384+00:00Breakfast the morning after<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_0514.jpg" /><br />
The tea party was a great success, but now there is a lot of food left in the house. Slowly starting to get my way through it all. Breakfast today is a chive omelette with rocket, tomatoes with basil and a slice of Poilane country loaf.JellyGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01132193192359890663noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7352254.post-32355539534858574442010-10-29T16:03:00.000+01:002010-10-29T16:03:32.771+01:00Preview of a bakefest<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/gingerpeach.jpg" /><br />
The kitchen is filled with the smells of baking in preparation for tea tomorrow. First item made:<a href="http://whiteonricecouple.com/recipes/ginger-peach-muffins/"> ginger peach muffins</a>.JellyGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01132193192359890663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7352254.post-64163899293185604222010-10-21T19:30:00.000+01:002010-10-21T19:30:24.725+01:00Last country walk of the year: Hassocks to LewesThe temperature's dropped almost overnight, and we seem to have bypassed autumn and gone straight into winter. Oh summer where did you go? The rapidly shortening days had me remembering the last country walk we took in September. The <a href="http://www.walkingclub.org.uk/book_1/walk_29/index.shtml">walk from Hassocks to Lewes</a> in the South Downs was minimum effort with maximum views. And we couldn't have asked for a better day.<br />
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<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/Country%20walk/IMG_0377.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/Country%20walk/IMG_0390.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/Country%20walk/IMG_0398.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/Country%20walk/IMG_0402.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/Country%20walk/IMG_0410.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/Country%20walk/IMG_0413.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/Country%20walk/IMG_0404.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/Country%20walk/IMG_0415.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/Country%20walk/IMG_0419.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/Country%20walk/IMG_0420.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/Country%20walk/IMG_0421.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/Country%20walk/IMG_0424.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/Country%20walk/IMG_0426.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/Country%20walk/IMG_0434.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/Country%20walk/IMG_0438.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/Country%20walk/IMG_0451.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/Country%20walk/IMG_0455.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/Country%20walk/IMG_0460.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/Country%20walk/IMG_0470.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/Country%20walk/IMG_0472.jpg" />JellyGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01132193192359890663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7352254.post-34952090737017374202010-10-17T16:21:00.001+01:002010-10-18T00:02:10.951+01:00Super deluxe lunch from Atari-ya<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_0483.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_0484.jpg" /><br />
Have I ever told you about Atari-ya? It's my go-to place for reasonably priced and delicious sushi. True, there are places that serve better quality sushi, the place is very small and no frills, service can be slow, but that doesn't stop me from having lunch there every time I'm in the Selfridges area.<br />
<br />
My favourite dish to order is the super deluxe chirashi. At £14, it's a bowl filled to the brim with beautifully vinegared rice and generous portions of sashimi of the season. Everything is fresh and so flavourful. Ah, I'm salivating already.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.atariya.co.uk/shops/james_st.html"><b>Atari-ya</b></a><br />
<i>20 James Street</i><br />
<i>W1U 1EH</i>JellyGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01132193192359890663noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7352254.post-51174582224108734102010-10-13T23:16:00.000+01:002010-10-13T23:16:55.928+01:00iPhone 4 picture fun<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_0005.jpg" /><br />
I got my first iPhone a couple of weeks ago and have been enjoying it ever since. It's made life so much easier, especially the maps function. And I don't have to worry about having nothing to do on the tube anymore - I've got reads and games to play while waiting. I've also been having fun with the camera function and a great free app called <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/id379411152?mt=8">Pudding Camera</a>. You can get great lomo-style shots without any effort on your part. Here are a few pictures I've taken while out and about over the last couple of weeks:<br />
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<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/photo-4.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/photo.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/puddingcam.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_0066.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/IMG_0050.jpg" /><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">All pictures taken using the Pudding Camera app except for the last photo, which was using the standard iPhone camera.</span></i>JellyGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01132193192359890663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7352254.post-40036765436667195422010-10-12T12:13:00.000+01:002010-10-12T12:13:54.218+01:00Breakfast project<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/4641464621_4899ba03fa_z.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/totoro.jpg" /><br />
<img src="http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h167/ditzyspice/sandwich.jpg" /><br />
Breakfast for me is always a hurried affair taken at my desk at work. Seeing these photos from Flickr user bamsesayaka's <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/85213597@N00/sets/72157624032054214/">Breakfast project</a> makes me want to wake up earlier, slow down and enjoy the morning sun and prepare a nutritious, delicious and fun meal to start the day.<br />
<br />
Another two blogs I love for their photos of breakfasts (and other meals) are <a href="http://simplybreakfast.blogspot.com/">Simply Breakfast</a> and <a href="http://aixxx.wordpress.com/">It will stop raining</a>.JellyGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01132193192359890663noreply@blogger.com0