Life Lately + New Tech Gadgets

Apologies about the lack of posting as of late -- I've been busy saying goodbye to my old group (they planned so many things for me! <3) + starting a new job + studying for LSATs (again) + LA for Jing's birthday + good friends in town (wow sounds busier than it feels haha). Anyway, it's busy in a good way, but it doesn't look like it will end anytime soon! Here are some quick photos before I move onto the tech goodies -- I created a collage of my random iPhone pics...see if you are in them! =P


LA for Jing's Birthday -- This was actually the first birthday I've spent with him!

As you can see, it's involved lots of food, fun and traveling! Some shopping too =P
I also wanted to take the time to share with you all some new gadgets I've added to my collection.

First, I would like to introduce you to my MacBook Pro! Although the first one I got from Apple was defective (it wobbled!), the quick and friendly customer service restored their reputation in my eyes. I called to create a return by mail, but because I couldn't wait another WEEK for my laptop, I went to the apple store at 11pm after work and waited in line to buy one from the store =)

Designed in CA -- just like me!
Puuuuurty!
Next, I had to think about how to protect my investment! I looked at all different types of soft and hard cases and talked to at least 5 people about what they use to protect their macs. It seemed like the choices were neoprene cases, hard cases or suede sleeves.

After looking around at ALL different types of bags/cases and brands including incase, speck, booq, etc. I went back to my favorite brand Waterfield Bags. They were designed in San Francisco by a former bicycle messenger that wanted to make bags sturdy enough for a job like his, but more business oriented. They started with messenger type bags and now make all kinds of sleeves/cases to protect electronic goods. They incorporate super sturdy materials like ballistic nylon (what they use in bullet proof vests), neoprene and industrial strength zippers, buckles and rings to withstand continued use. I love the thought that goes into their product because it prevents those little annoyances you experience with your gear over time. For example, their bags have gold lining inside because it helps you find your stuff easily (vs. black) -- these are things that people making products like this should think about!

They also have AWESOME customer service. I emailed them asking them what kind of bag I should get for my new MBP and someone emailed me back within 10 minutes asking me how I use my laptop, where I take it, etc and then recommended the suede sleeve jacket and also a cable guy gear bag for my chargers and other small electronics. They also always handwrite a note on the receipt -- I like this personalized touch =P

Anyway, here are some photos of what I ended up getting. For extra protection while traveling, I decided that I can slip my MBP with the suede jacket on into my old sleevecase for my 13" Thinkpad. It's a little short, but covers the bulk of the laptop!

Useful loopholes on the side of it make it easy to pull laptop out 
Suede jacket inside out -- Neoprene lining at the bottom (you can choose horizontal or vertical side)
I use the suede jacket with my old SleeveCase... it doesn't really fit, but works for traveling!
I also love the Medium Cable Guy bag I got.. It was a lot bigger than I expected and I think the Small would've sufficed for my needs, but hey -- better to grow into something than have something be too small right? (or is that an Asian way of thinking? Ha!)
This fits everything I need and then some! There is another compartment on the other side too

Great simple design, super sturdy zipper too

Everything all in my Longchamp!
Anyway, I love these new additions to my Waterfield collection so far... check it out for yourself and let me know what you think! Or if you have their stuff already, what do you love the most about it?