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Today was overcast and rainy in L.A. and even though that calls for even more traffic and the locals dressing up like they’re going to the Alps, I’m always a little excited at the change of pace. Besides, this gives me unprecedented opportunity to sport scarves, rain boots and the previously mentioned giant puffer jacket I talked about in this post. Who doesn’t love a ski bunny moment? It is a risk, however, because more often times than not, what starts as a rainy day ends in full sunshine bliss. I then become that person walking around in layers, sweating bullets and even though I normally straighten my hair, begin to feel it curl under my cashmere hat, which any naturally curly girl knows – when you commit to a hair accessory, you’re in it for the day. Not a good situation.

What I can always count on, however, is my desire for a delicious treat to indulge in. There’s something about this weather that makes you want to be comfortable and satisfied, so – I’ll go to the gym tomorrow. I was going to be in Culver City today, a great up and coming neighborhood that houses one of my favorite restaurants – Akasha. I’ve heard it’s great for dinner, but I go there for two reasons – they serve Intelligentsia coffee (it’s seriously like no other) and the seared albacore sandwich. The albacore is really light and fresh and they pair it perfectly with pickled cucumber, avocado, cole slaw and wasabi mayonnaise. I’ve heard Trader Joe’s (and I’m sure your local grocery store) carry wasabi mayo, so this would be easy to recreate with any fresh piece of fish, turkey or even just broiled veggies.

Top from left to right: Seared Albacore sandwich with zucchini and onion soup, front of Akasha, snapshot of the menu and their impeccably made cafe latte.

When I got home, I decided a treat was in order. Cupcakes have been done countless ways and I believe the reason is because they are awesome. They’re like a private cake and a little celebration you can have without making a scene… however you may want to hide from the outside world that you had anything more than two private cakes in one sitting – this is just advice, I’m not talking about anyone in particular.

Although I’m a chocolate fanatic, I love this recipe. While the cupcakes were cooling, I made 3 different colors of icing and attempted to create an ombre pattern as I applied blue, then purple, then pink icing horizontally across the top of the cupcake and then smoothed it out with a knife.

I’m all about finding ways to brighten my day (especially when it’s dark outside), whether it’s a great top on sale, a new lipstick or a decadent treat. Happy Weekend!

Here are some baking items I’m craving right now:

Wilton Re-useable Cupcake Holders from Amazon (photo taken from website) $9.90