She'll be as cold as ice :)

I would suggest: i3 processor 3 or 4GB RAM (Visual Studio 2010 use a fair amount of RAM) Windows 32bit Pro (64bit if you go over 4GB RAM) 15.6" screen because (14" too small if using frequently for coding; 17" makes the laptop too big if you travel lots) that supports a resolution of 1600X900 250GB HDD (swap out for a SSD if you have the cash for a performance boost) Built-in wireless Have have the same set-up for my home laptop (normal HDD; no SSD) and use it pretty much for the same as you are wanting to.

Diamond Geezer: A really wonderful man, helpful and reliable; a gem of a man.