If you need a little extra computing power this tax season, Dell is currently offering free upgrades to big 19-inch screens and extra memory with its XPS series packages. In particular, we like the spunky little XPS 200, which Dell says is 79 percent smaller than its big brother, the XPS 600. The slimmer case means this model can be used in kitchen areas and other public spaces without looking like a hulking gray elephant. On the performance side, its optional dual core processor and all that memory means it can crunch your numbers and juggle, say, music or video, with aplomb. It starts at $999. Pray for an IRS refund.

Soft blouses are back for spring, and better than last season when too many breezy blouses were a tad too breezy for those who appreciate loyalty in a top, as well as style. If you know what we mean! We like this soft, but not too frilly, hip-length faux (important) wrap v-neck from Ann Taylor Loft, $44. The empire waist, pleating and slight flare at the hem will suit many figures. See similar tops at moderately priced JC Penney and upscale Anthropologie.

We’ve been busting our bulbs looking for the best solar garden lights….Everyone has them this year: Home Depot, Lowes, Front Gate. Trying to strike a balance of quality and economy, we found that Solar Light Store had a good selection and a range of quality items that won’t burn a solar hole in your wallet. Here’s one example: A pair of Champlain solar lights in copper with white LED bulbs ($54.87). Tip: Look for LED lightbulbs in solar garden lighting. They last longer and can put out more light. Choose amber light for mellow ambiance; white light for brighter pathways. Pick metal casings of aluminum or copper for better durability. Plastic lights are more economical — and more squashable.

As we rush irreversibly into wedding season, it’s nice to have a handy list of gift ideas so we are spared the agony of figuring out all this on our own. That’s exactly what sfriedman13 was kind enough to do in the Yahoo! Shoposphere. Her list Our Favorite Wedding Gifts includes this Felicity Vase in hand-blown cased glass — and it’s on sale from Crate and Barrel for just $11.50. Now that’s worth celebrating.

The 78^th Annual Academy Awards winners are in. Missed the nominees while they were still in theaters? Check out many of the films on DVD, including Best Picture winner Crash and Best Documentary Feature nominees Enron: The Smartest Guys In the Room, Murderball and winner March of the Penguins. Check out these other DVDs each featuring nominated performances: Cinderella Man, The Constant Gardener, Hustle & Flow, Junebug, North Country, Pride & Prejudice, and Walk the Line (with winner Reese Witherspoon).

Looking like one of those hats that Devo members sported on their 1980 album Freedom of Choice, today’s catchy device is actually a collapsible strainer. We spotted this unique find on Kitchen Contraptions, and it is available for $60 on Moss. Designed in The Netherlands, the strainer is strong enough to drain potatoes and, we suspect, flexible enough to be worn to retro rock shows.