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Friday Favorites: Beauty, bling + entertainment

January 2, 2015 By Ashley 66 Comments

Happy Friday! This was a strange week, wasn’t it? When you have a holiday in the middle of the week, it’s easy to get off-track with your days, and yesterday seemed like Sunday to me. But I’m not complaining, I’ve enjoyed nearly every minute of all the festivities the past couple of weeks. 

Nonetheless, here we are into the second day of the year, and it just so happens to fall on my favorite weekly post to write: “Friday Favorites.” Throughout the week, you can usually find some planned-out content with substance here on A Lady Goes West, but today is not one of those days. Fridays are all about showing you a few fun things that are making me smile, so I hope you enjoy. Everything shown in today’s favorites, I picked up during my Christmas trip to Florida, except for the links at the end. And do me a favor, if you have a moment, watch the videos! Here we go …

My favorite beauty tool

Thanks to my Mom, I’m now the proud owner of a new curling wand. Although I knew that these things existed, I hadn’t tried one until Thanksgiving in San Diego. Dave’s little sister had one, and I used it to do my hair for Thanksgiving Day. I fell in love with the fact that there is no clamp, so you wrap pieces of your hair around the wand yourself. It’s actually easier to use than a curling iron and gives a nice tight curl.

Curling wandShown above from top left to right: The Conair YOU CURL Curling Wand, the handy little finger protectors that come with the wand and a picture of my hair curled on Thanksgiving Day.

So get this: I have naturally curly hair, which I get straightened via a Keratin treatment every few months. Then, once my hair is straight, I use curling irons or wands like this to recurl it. Makes no sense, right? Well, in a way it does. I haven’t worn my natural curls in many years, and I really don’t ever plan to go back. These tools help me get the right look, it just happens to take a couple of steps to get there.

My favorite mall kiosk find

For the past few years, my iPhone has been covered with several versions of a safe and sturdy Speck-brand case. While yes, Speck makes a great case, I tend to like things a little flashier. The last day that Dave and I were in Florida, after we had lunch with some of my girlfriends in the food court (which was exactly one week ago), I stopped at a cell-phone case kiosk and made this purchase.

Cell phone case blingThe many angles of my new DeBari Crystaria case from Cellairis.

You could say this is a little tacky, but you’d be wrong. The sales person told me it was made from “almost” Swarovski crystals. Which obviously means, not Swarovski crystals. But whatever. At first she said the case cost $50, but somehow I talked her down to $30. That made me think I got a steal. What do you think?

My favorite old-school entertainment

Books. Real life books. I haven’t done a whole lot of reading the past year-and-a-half, outside of buying books at airports and reading them on the plane. But that’s all about to change. I plan to spend more time with a good book in my hand in 2015. And of course, leave it to my Mom to choose some great books as Christmas gifts for me, without me even asking for them or mentioning I want to read more.

BooksA diverse selection, featuring Amy Poehler’s Yes Please, Debbie Macomber’s Summer on Blossom Street and Nicholas Sparks’ Safe Haven.

Have you read any of these? I’m currently reading a different Nicholas Sparks book, which I bought at the airport on the way to Florida, and it’s very good. I hope to start one of these new titles this month. There’s something very therapeutic about losing yourself in fiction. And being away from technology for a few hours at a time? Always a good plan.

My favorite video clips of the week

Okay, full disclosure: Dave and I decided to stay home and lay low for New Year’s Eve this year. In addition to making some great food and drinks, we also spent a lot of time watching YouTube, up on our big-screen TV. We watched a lot of hilarious videos, but we also watched some really enjoyable videos that are worth sharing. If you’re anything like me, you always skip over these kind of links, but you won’t be disappointed with these two.

  • I’ve always loved Taylor Swift, and this video shows what a wonderful person she really is. “Taylor Swift Gift Giving 2014.”
  • Music and household items. So clever. You’ll want to watch this one more than once. “Hits of 2014. Played on Household items.”

My favorite links of the week

If you haven’t had the chance to stay up-to-date with A Lady Goes West this week, here’s what you missed …

  • My weekly workouts and a Plyo DVD class review — Back in the City and my workouts
  • My year in review — A look back at all the happenings of 2014
  • Behind-the-scenes of A Lady Goes West — Top blog posts, reader stats and my food
  • First post of 2015 — Happy New Year and my goals for 2015

Okay, everybody, there you go! Tonight, I have a date with a girlfriend for some wine, a free and clear Saturday tomorrow, and Dave and I have his re-scheduled work holiday party on Sunday night. 

I hope you have a great Friday! I’ll be checking in on Instagram, so join me there. Otherwise, I’ll be back on Monday for some talk about fitness. Enjoy the first weekend of the year!

Read more Friday Favorites

If you’ve enjoyed browsing through this post, see below for previous editions or visit the the link-up hostesses, Heather and Clare. 

  1. A snack, a purse and a ritual
  2. A delivery, a bra and a guy
  3. A sweet, a wine and a read
  4. A drink, a gadget and a plan 
  5. A time, a bottle and a powder
  6. San Francisco edition
  7. Beauty edition
  8. Beach vacation edition
  9. Hidden meanings
  10. Kicks, a book and a bowl
  11. The very best sweatshirts
  12. Party hosting and froyo
  13. Fourth of July daytime activity
  14. Beauty basics edition
  15. Workplace edition
  16. Shopping, sales and a show
  17. The foods I always buy
  18. Sushi, a game and pants
  19. Fitness apps
  20. Delicious and healthy products
  21. Comfort, fitness and function
  22. Beauty, buddha and blog events
  23. Dining, the city and gift ideas
  24. POPSUGAR, sweets and such
  25. A bunch of fun stuff
  26. e-book, food, picnic and tunes
  27. A link, a superfood and a mask
  28. Pants, shoes, food and links
  29. Dining, protein and goodies
  30. Shopping, events and a book
  31. A gym bag, pumpkin and juices 
  32. Workout gear, a top and a massage
  33. prAna, a watch, tea and more
  34. Tasty stuff and gift sales
  35. Decor, bars, boots and a drink
  36. Flowers, music and more
  37. Coqueta, a brush and food
  38. My people and the holidays

Questions of the day

What’s something good you’ve bought or found lately? What are you up to this weekend? Do you have any great YouTube video finds worth sharing?

Ashley signature

Filed Under: Beauty, Friday Favorites, Shopping Tagged With: books, Conair curling wand, Friday Favorites, gifts, phone case, YouTube videos

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About Ashley

I'm a mom and fitness instructor in Charlotte, North Carolina. And A Lady Goes West is where I share fitness, wellness and clean beauty tips, as well as stories from my life.
 
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Comments

  1. Diane says

    January 2, 2015 at 2:49 am

    Happy New Year! It really does feel like a Monday today. I’m all mixed up. I didn’t know your hair was naturally curly… do you have a pic on the blog before you started doing the keratin treatments?
    Diane recently posted…The 1 thing that will sabotage your fitness goals every time (but only if you let it)My Profile

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      January 2, 2015 at 9:55 am

      Hi Diane! Nope! No pics on the computer even. I haven’t worn it curly since college. No blogs back in those days hehehe. Maybe I’ll pull an old pic out one day. Happy Friday!!

      Reply
  2. Chrissy @Pink Polish and Running Shoes says

    January 2, 2015 at 3:28 am

    I understand about your hair. I have naturally wavy hair that I straighten every day. If I do wear it wavy, It’s always curling iron or curling wand curls not my natural wave.

    Have a great weekend!
    Chrissy @Pink Polish and Running Shoes recently posted…My Friday Five 1/02My Profile

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      January 2, 2015 at 9:56 am

      How funny what us ladies have to do with our hair. Right, Chrissy? Happy Friday!

      Reply
  3. Megan @ Skinny Fitalicious says

    January 2, 2015 at 4:09 am

    I am in desperate need of a new iPhone case. I need to check out a mall kiosk one of these days. Just one of those things you never get around to. Happy New Year and have a great weekend!
    Megan @ Skinny Fitalicious recently posted…Homemade Spiced Apple CiderMy Profile

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      January 2, 2015 at 9:57 am

      Hi Megan! I know, and I never go to the mall here in San Francisco, so it was by chance I picked one up in Florida. Happy Friday! Go for bling when you look for a case. 🙂 Believe me, it brightens the day!

      Reply
  4. jill conyers says

    January 2, 2015 at 4:15 am

    Love the phone case! And books? Love them too. I can read on my ipad but there are just some books that deserve to be read the old fashioned way, holding a real book with pages to turn and everything 🙂

    Happy and joyful 2015!
    jill conyers recently posted…Running in 2015!My Profile

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      January 2, 2015 at 9:56 am

      I know, Jill! I love a good real book. Hope you have a wonderful weekend!

      Reply
  5. Sue @ This Mama Runs for Cupcakes says

    January 2, 2015 at 4:57 am

    I have heard very mixed reviews on Amy Poehler’s book, I was kind of disappointed to hear that. I heard that Tina Fey’s is MUCH better! Happy New year!
    Sue @ This Mama Runs for Cupcakes recently posted…My Year of Running and Racing 2014My Profile

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      January 2, 2015 at 9:55 am

      Hi Sue! hmm… I’ll let you know after I read it! Happy Friday!

      Reply
  6. Marielle says

    January 2, 2015 at 5:45 am

    I finally updated my I-phone from a 4 to a 6….only took me a few yrs…& it’s been so fun and I have so much more room for apps! 🙂 happy Friday!
    Marielle recently posted…Pregnancy Week 24 UpdateMy Profile

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      January 2, 2015 at 9:54 am

      That’s awesome! I need more room on my phone and am constantly deleting pictures. Happy Friday, Marielle!

      Reply
  7. Sara @ Lake Shore Runner says

    January 2, 2015 at 5:52 am

    We have the same hair!! I have curly hair too but straighten it and then use the wand to curl it. I used to get the Keratin treatment but it didn’t really work on my hair 🙁 It is funny as I have gotten older my hair has relaxed a little curl wise. I don’t hate it! Happy Friday!
    Sara @ Lake Shore Runner recently posted…2015 Running, Personal Health & Blogging Goals #FridayFiveMy Profile

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      January 2, 2015 at 9:51 am

      Hi Sara! I don’t even know what my curls would look like anymore hehehe. Glad I’m not alone in all the work it takes. Happy Friday!

      Reply
  8. Heather @ Housewife Glamour says

    January 2, 2015 at 7:02 am

    Ahhh, curling wands! Once I tried one I never went back to regular curling irons! I now have two barrel widths and use them almost every time I wear my hair down. Oh, and don’t worry… I pull the same move you do… I don’t get straightening treatments (one day!), but I do blow dry and very quickly straighten my hair to just turn around and add curls from the curling wand. Rarely do I ever just let it go and wear it scrunched! Happy Friday! xo
    Heather @ Housewife Glamour recently posted…Friday Favorites #70: Week of 1/2My Profile

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      January 2, 2015 at 9:51 am

      Hi Heather! So funny what we do to our poor hair. I try to go a couple days a week with no heat styling, which is pretty easy when you wear a bun everyday at the gym. 🙂 Happy Friday!

      Reply
  9. Lauren @ The Bikini Experiment says

    January 2, 2015 at 7:10 am

    I understand about your hair. I blow my hair out straight or wear it wavy. I have had a few Keratin treatments in the past too. Love the return to real books…I thought the same thing because I read one the other week when I was traveling too which I never do these days! Enjoy the weekend!
    Lauren @ The Bikini Experiment recently posted…Friday Faves {1.2.15}My Profile

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      January 2, 2015 at 9:52 am

      Hi Lauren, There’s something great about a real book. What are you reading these days? 🙂 (Oh and glad you feel my hair pain!)

      Reply
  10. Jill @ Champagne for Everyday says

    January 2, 2015 at 7:59 am

    Love the phone case Ashley!! And the old school paperbacks. I have been waiting for the latest trashy Danielle Steele to come out for ages, and no, I will not be reading it on an e-reader!! Guilty pleasures 😀

    Happy Friday!
    Jill @ Champagne for Everyday recently posted…Resolutions-shmalutions: How to Crush Your Goals Year RoundMy Profile

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      January 2, 2015 at 9:53 am

      Hi Jill! hahah awesome! I’ve never read a Danielle Steele book, but I know she has a great following. Doesn’t she live in SF? Or at least has a massive house here!

      Reply
  11. Claire @ Keeping Up With Claire says

    January 2, 2015 at 8:05 am

    Happy New Year! The whole week has definitely felt weird for me. It feels like today is Sunday and I struggled all week remembering what day of the week it was. I’m not super excited about getting back to work on Monday, but I am happy to have a regular routine back again!
    Claire @ Keeping Up With Claire recently posted…My 2015 GoalsMy Profile

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      January 2, 2015 at 9:53 am

      Hi Claire! I feel ya, I haven’t returned to “normal” yet since Thanksgiving heeheh. I look forward to the routine too. Happy Friday!

      Reply
  12. Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine says

    January 2, 2015 at 9:15 am

    I pretty much suck at curling my hair. It is so thin, long, and straight! But I have always been curious how I would fare with a curling wand instead of the traditional clamp!
    Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine recently posted…Friday Finisher 1/2/15My Profile

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      January 2, 2015 at 9:53 am

      You never know! I’ve also found that the more hairspray the better hehehe. Happy Friday, Rebecca!

      Reply
  13. Sarah @ Making Thyme for Health says

    January 2, 2015 at 9:44 am

    Happy New Year! It does feel so weird because of the holiday yesterday.

    I’m loving all of your favorites! I had to laugh at the cell phone case- nice work talking her down to $30! 🙂
    Sarah @ Making Thyme for Health recently posted…Super Green Protein SmoothieMy Profile

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      January 2, 2015 at 9:57 am

      Stick with me, Sarah. I’m good at bargaining in all types of situations. hehehe Happy Friday!
      Ashley recently posted…Friday Favorites: Beauty, bling + entertainmentMy Profile

      Reply
  14. Lizzie @ The Magic Tree says

    January 2, 2015 at 10:06 am

    I have curly and frizzy hair as well and used to get keratin treatments, but haven’t in a few years. I felt like it took the volume out of my already fine and medium thick hair. Does that happen to you?
    Lizzie @ The Magic Tree recently posted…Favorite Finds Friday {1/2}My Profile

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      January 2, 2015 at 1:20 pm

      Hi Lizzie! Yes! I used to love the way Keratin made my hair look and feel but it has changed. However, the formula that salons used has changed too. I liked it when the product was stronger (even though it wasn’t good for you!). Oh well. I keep getting them done to help with shine a little, I wish something better would come around. Do you just blow dry now?? That takes me forever!
      Ashley recently posted…Friday Favorites: Beauty, bling + entertainmentMy Profile

      Reply
      • Lizzie @ The Magic Tree says

        January 3, 2015 at 3:58 pm

        That’s true, they help with shine so much. I blow dry with a round brush and either straighten or curl it. It’s SUCH a process, but I guess I’m used to after 13+ years of protesting the curl!
        Lizzie @ The Magic Tree recently posted…Favorite Finds Friday {1/2}My Profile

        Reply
  15. Katie @ Daily Cup of Kate says

    January 2, 2015 at 10:12 am

    I’m reading the Longest Ride too right now! I am trying to save most of it for our trip to Mexico in a few weeks though. So far, I really like it!
    Katie @ Daily Cup of Kate recently posted…Top 10 Workouts of 2014My Profile

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      January 2, 2015 at 1:20 pm

      Hi Katie! Mexico trip?? Where?? Yes, I’m loving The Longest Ride and am about halfway through. Such a good read.
      Ashley recently posted…Friday Favorites: Beauty, bling + entertainmentMy Profile

      Reply
      • Katie @ Daily Cup of Kate says

        January 2, 2015 at 1:46 pm

        We are going to Playa Del Carmen for our honeymoon and I cant wait! 🙂
        Katie @ Daily Cup of Kate recently posted…Top 10 Workouts of 2014My Profile

        Reply
        • Ashley says

          January 2, 2015 at 1:52 pm

          Yayyyyy!! So fun!! 🙂
          Ashley recently posted…Friday Favorites: Beauty, bling + entertainmentMy Profile

          Reply
  16. Lauren says

    January 2, 2015 at 11:59 am

    I’m trying to read more book books too. I got Yes Please for Christmas and can’t wait to dive in!

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      January 2, 2015 at 1:21 pm

      Hi Lauren! Awesome! Let me know what you think about it. Hope you have a great weekend!
      Ashley recently posted…Friday Favorites: Beauty, bling + entertainmentMy Profile

      Reply
    • Ashley says

      January 2, 2015 at 1:22 pm

      Oh and by the way, thanks for stopping by to say hello! 🙂
      Ashley recently posted…Friday Favorites: Beauty, bling + entertainmentMy Profile

      Reply
  17. Jane says

    January 2, 2015 at 1:13 pm

    Love my curling wand! I find it so much easier to use than a curling iron, and I love the look it produces. Happy New Year!
    Jane recently posted…Looking Back at 2014.My Profile

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      January 2, 2015 at 1:21 pm

      Me too, Jane! I look forward to using my wand a lot. Do you use the glove?? Seems like a necessity. Happy Friday!
      Ashley recently posted…Friday Favorites: Beauty, bling + entertainmentMy Profile

      Reply
      • Jane says

        January 2, 2015 at 1:36 pm

        I actually don’t… it made it harder for me to curl my hair… but that does mean hot fingers here and there! Ha!
        Jane recently posted…Looking Back at 2014.My Profile

        Reply
        • Ashley says

          January 2, 2015 at 1:52 pm

          Good to know, Jane!
          Ashley recently posted…Friday Favorites: Beauty, bling + entertainmentMy Profile

          Reply
  18. Catherine | Something Catchy says

    January 2, 2015 at 7:23 pm

    I had no idea your hair was naturally curly! I was born with curly hair, and after my mom gave me my first haircut at the age of 2 it went stick straight.

    I can’t wait to read Yes, Please. What are your favorite Nicholas Sparks novels? I’ve only read a few.
    Catherine | Something Catchy recently posted…5 Habits to Drop in 2015My Profile

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      January 3, 2015 at 8:23 am

      Hi Catherine, This is my first Nicholas Sparks novel, and right now I’m reading “The Longest Ride” — it’s really good. Up next will be “Safe Haven” which my Momma bought me. You have such gorgeous hair, BTW! Happy weekend to you, my friend. Hope to see you soon:)
      Ashley recently posted…Friday Favorites: Beauty, bling + entertainmentMy Profile

      Reply
  19. Lindsay says

    January 2, 2015 at 8:37 pm

    I’ve been wanting to try a curling wand for forever! I’m nervous about burning my fingers though. Maybe I’ll check that one out 🙂
    Lindsay recently posted…Friday Favorites 1/2/15My Profile

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      January 3, 2015 at 8:24 am

      Hi Lindsay! Yes, you have to be careful with how hot your hair gets, and I’m sure I’ll get better at it the more I use it. I guess those little finger protectors will come in handy. I hope you have a great weekend!! Thanks for stopping by to say hello:)
      Ashley recently posted…Friday Favorites: Beauty, bling + entertainmentMy Profile

      Reply
  20. Caity @ Moi Contre La Vie says

    January 3, 2015 at 9:13 am

    Love this round-up, thanks for sharing & Happy New Year!
    Caity @ Moi Contre La Vie recently posted…A Year In PhotosMy Profile

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      January 3, 2015 at 9:36 am

      Hi Caity!! Thanks for stopping by the say hello. Hope you have a fabulous weekend:) I’m sure you’re got a fashionable shoot lined up for somewhere!
      Ashley recently posted…Friday Favorites: Beauty, bling + entertainmentMy Profile

      Reply
  21. Bethann Wagner says

    January 3, 2015 at 2:41 pm

    I’m a naturally curly haired gal too! Must try that wand- I’ve been meaning to pick it up! Would be perfect for touch ups on natural waves in between Keratin treatments too (you know, the crazyyy days!) Also- That iPhone case is BOMB!
    Bethann Wagner recently posted…A Year in Review: 2014My Profile

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      January 4, 2015 at 9:37 am

      Hi Bethann! Happy Sunday! A fellow curly girl? I never would have known! Hope you’re having an awesome weekend. Thanks for saying hello:)
      Ashley recently posted…Friday Favorites: Beauty, bling + entertainmentMy Profile

      Reply
  22. Heather says

    January 4, 2015 at 6:06 am

    LOVE reading 🙂 I haven’t read any of the three books you listed, but the Amy Poehler book is one on my list. I actually have a lot of non-fiction on my reading list this year and am looking forward to learning some new skills!
    Heather recently posted…Sunday QuotesMy Profile

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      January 4, 2015 at 9:38 am

      Hi Heather, I’ve read very little non-fiction in my day and would like to start with that too. Figured I’d get back into reading with some easy fiction though. Let me know if you read anything worth sharing soon. Hope you’re having an awesome weekend! Thanks for stopping by to say hello:)
      Ashley recently posted…Friday Favorites: Beauty, bling + entertainmentMy Profile

      Reply
  23. Cassie @ Almost Getting it Together says

    January 4, 2015 at 4:27 pm

    I definitely want to read Amy Poheler’s book. My weekend was spent doing Pittsburgh-y things… and now I’m en route back to the City!!
    Cassie @ Almost Getting it Together recently posted…Most Popular Posts of 2014My Profile

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      January 7, 2015 at 2:46 pm

      Welcome back to SF!! 🙂 And I’ll let you know how I like the book. Have a great week, Cassie!
      Ashley recently posted…A different kind of training and my foodMy Profile

      Reply
  24. KAT says

    January 5, 2015 at 5:37 pm

    Safe Haven is one of my favorite Nicholas Sparks novels, but I must say that the movie is solo much more different, so be aware if you have seen it or are planning too! Its not bad, just has some significant changes [like changing the daughters name… why even do that??] Anyway, hope you enjoy it!!
    KAT recently posted…Sesame Ginger Soba NoodlesMy Profile

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      January 7, 2015 at 2:47 pm

      Hi Kat! Thanks for the heads up. I almost always like the book more than the movie, that’s for sure. Have an awesome week:)
      Ashley recently posted…A different kind of training and my foodMy Profile

      Reply
  25. Carla (@charliesue) says

    January 7, 2015 at 10:58 am

    LOVE the new case! It’s totally fab.

    P.S. Give me a hair tutorial with this wand? I have no hair skills whatsoever. 🙂
    Carla (@charliesue) recently posted…Scallops with Farro & Mushrooms in Lemony Tahini DressingMy Profile

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      January 7, 2015 at 2:47 pm

      Hi CharlieSue! Thanks, I’m hardly a hair pro, but I know that you are supposed to take the curls away from your face and use a lot of hairspray. That’s how I do it. 🙂 Have a great week!
      Ashley recently posted…A different kind of training and my foodMy Profile

      Reply
  26. Nancy says

    January 11, 2015 at 3:05 pm

    Had no idea you could bargain down a kiosk person! Totally trying this and yes I love the case!!
    Nancy recently posted…Tibb’s Eve BrunchMy Profile

    Reply

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Hi, I'm Ashley. I'm a mom and fitness instructor living in Charlotte, North Carolina. I love to help you live a balanced life with no extremes, making sure you never skip a rest day. A Lady Goes West is where I share my workouts, simple meals, clean beauty tips and wellness insight with you. Find out more about me and stay awhile!

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It’s been 3.5 months since we moved back to the It’s been 3.5 months since we moved back to the east coast, after our 8-year adventure out west. In the last couple of months, we’ve bought and moved into a house, enrolled Brady in preschool, met some super-nice people, hosted family visitors, and I may have even found my new gym home too, which is so exciting ... The thing is: When we were talking about moving cross-country months ago, it seemed so overwhelming to think of everything we needed to do, and I couldn’t wait to get it all over with. Well, even though life remains busy, so much of the big transition is behind us, and it’s such a good feeling. We still have a lot to learn about our new city, but it’s totally starting to feel like home. Here’s your friendly reminder that if you’re in the midst of overwhelming transitions, remember that eventually you’ll get through the other side. 😍
Negativity be gone. "Think about negativity from o Negativity be gone. "Think about negativity from others as junk mail. Learn to sort your mail, and don't let that junk in the house." -- I heard this thought from @glennondoyle over the weekend while soaking up the annual @beautycounter virtual conference, and boy it spoke to me, as someone who used to get really upset when others didn't treat me well. I no longer internalize any of that junk, nor allow it, and it's freeing. And it's a lesson for us all.
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I'm all about the unfollow for people or accounts that leave you feeling icky or less than. And I think you can use the unfollow both literally and figuratively in your life. Remember, if you've been experiencing negative energy from someone or something -- sort your mail and leave that junk in the trash, don't even bring it into your house. Have a good night, friends. xoxo -Ashley
Because focusing too much on what you eat and how Because focusing too much on what you eat and how you move can lead to a restrictive routine, and once you’ve been there and done that — you don’t want to go back to that place. Friends, be kind to yourself, fuel yourself well, and always make time for life. xoxo -Ashley
Peloton or Les Mills? This is divisive debate, bec Peloton or Les Mills? This is divisive debate, because people are rightly obsessed with each platform and tend to have strong feelings either way. Here's the deal: I think the Peloton and Les Mills platforms are both AMAZING, because they are getting more people moving and giving more people access to incredible workouts, all at a reasonable monthly price. I use both apps every single week, and I think that you can definitely enjoy both. I wrote a whole post on the blog this week about Les Mills On Demand vs. the Peloton app, and I went through everything you need to know to make a choice. You can check out that post later, but here's a top-line overview:
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Peloton vs. Les Mills On Demand:
-The monthly price is fairly even for access to both apps and both have free trials for 30 days
-There is great variety of workouts on both apps, but @onepeloton has a larger quantity of workouts and more short workouts
-Peloton has the fun-connected-digital community vibe and trackable data nailed down, but @lesmillsondemand workouts are better tested and programmed (and they are always effective, whereas sometimes Peloton workouts leave you wanting more)
-Both apps offer "programs" with workout calendars and I highly recommend following them to get better results
-There are incredible instructors on both platforms, and it depends on your personal style which instructors will resonate with you
-You can get in a great workout on either app, but you have to make sure you're doing the right mix of cardio and strength each week, rather than choosing randomly, in order to get more fit
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I'm in the camp that you can enjoy more than one digital fitness platform, especially because the price is better than the cost of one live-studio class. If you want to check out more on this, head to the blog here: https://aladygoeswest.com/les-mills-on-demand-vs-peloton-app-everything-you-need-to-know/
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Keep moving, friends! I'd love to know. Are you team Peloton, team Les Mills On Demand or other?
I teared up a little after receiving my first dose I teared up a little after receiving my first dose of the vaccine, thinking about the last year and all we’ve been through. Whether you choose to take this vaccine is up to you, but it’s a choice I wanted to make. And it’s given me a lot of relief and hope for what’s ahead. Thank you to all the health-care and front-line workers out there for all you do.
A season of firsts! Here’s to our first Easter b A season of firsts! Here’s to our first Easter back on the East Coast and in our new house. My mom drove up from Florida to spend the week with us, and this is our first holiday together in far too long. Now for the important question: What’s your favorite Easter candy, friends? For me: Not big on candy, but I’ll choose carrot cake over any other dessert Easter or not. Hope you had a great weekend, lovelies. ❤️🥕🐰
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A Lady Goes West is a personal blog meant for entertainment purposes only and does not serve as a substitute for professional advice from your own doctor, trainer or nutritionist. While I'm a certified personal trainer and group fitness instructor, the workouts, food and plans I post are what works for me and may not work for you. Please enjoy these stories and tips from my life, but proceed with caution. Also, know that affiliate links and sponsored posts appear from time-to-time, and I appreciate your support. For more information about how your data is stored, visit my Privacy Policy. Thanks for reading!

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