Friday Favorites: Fresh, healthy, clean, square
Happy Friday, party people! Another week has come and gone. I think I’m finally over my post-travel bug and feeling great again. Tonight will be very low-key, and tomorrow, Dave’s parents are coming to visit us for the night. I’m quite excited that we’re all heading to the Warriors game together, which believe it or not, will be my first game of the year. On Sunday, I have a gym practice session with some fellow Les Mills instructors to begin preparing for the next launch, and that’s about it for the weekend.
And because it’s Friday, it’s time for my favorite post of the week to write: “Friday Favorites.” This weekly post gives me the chance to share with you some unrelated things that have been making me smile lately, with no particular rhyme or reason. TGIF, and here we go …
My favorite new breath freshener
There’s something pretty big I haven’t mentioned on the blog: I stopped chewing gum. Yes, almost six months ago, I decided to stop. I had been chewing gum several times a day, more than a few pieces at a time and just felt like I needed to back off. (I even wrote a post on whether or not it was bad to chew too much gum.) While I was hoping that eliminating gum would bring me a host of benefits, nothing has happened other than I no longer spend money on gum. I don’t miss it though. These days, to freshen my breath, I’ve turned to mints and most recently, a spray …
Isn’t is just the cutest thing? It’s like the little bottle is saying HELLO
to you every time you pick it up.
A few weeks ago, I received the funniest news release about this Hello breath spray, explaining that Ross Matthews used this particular spray to give himself fresh breath before interviewing celebs at the Oscars on the Red Carpet. I thought, well then I’ve got to try it, so agreed to give it a whirl. This little spray is not only adorable, but is just under $4 and available at Target, Walgreens and online. I’ve got the Mojito Mint flavor, which is quite refreshing. It’s the perfect little purse addition, and it definitely gives me a nice taste in my mouth with just a couple spritzes. Oh and it’s also vegan, not tested on animals and made in the U.S.A. Not bad.
My favorite new healthy treat
Wait a second. Haven’t I already shared my love of Arctic Zero’s Fit Frozen Desserts in a “Friday Favorites” post? Well, yes I have, but this is NEW Arctic Zero. After the kind folks at the company sent me the first care package of their creamy pints and found out I enjoyed it, they followed up with a second care package featuring their brand new chunky pint line. These pints have new flavors and as the description suggests, more chunks.
See those chunks? That’s what I’m talking about.
I’ve already polished off a couple of them and definitely like these even more than the original creamy variety, because they are a little bit more rich, yet still super healthy. Arctic Zero is made from good and mostly natural ingredients, is lactose free, GMO free, gluten free, has a low glycemic index and only 300 calories per pint, which is double the calorie count of the original kind, but still pretty low in the grand scheme of desserts. My favorite flavors from the new line include Butter Pecan, Cookie Dough Chip and A Lil’ Bit Chippy. If you pass by Arctic Zero in your local grocer, give it a try. It’s a no-guilt dessert, which fills in the gaps for me between my far-too-frequent ventures to The Cheesecake Factory, that’s for sure!
My favorite beauty supplies of the week
Let’s be honest, I don’t actually use these things every day. In fact, most days I wear my hair in a messy ponytail or bun, smeared down with sweat and hairspray. But on the weekends, I do clean myself up a bit, and thus, was in need of some new tools …
I’m enjoying this Revlon Tourmaline Ionic Ceramic Dryer
, CHI Keratin Shampoo
, CHI Keratin Conditioner
and CHI Iron Guard Thermal Protection Spray
, which working in concert, try to keep my mane in tact.
My blow-dryer broke this week, so I popped out to Target to get the shiny new one shown above. I also stopped by Ulta a couple weeks ago to buy some fancy hair products, which are supposed to be geared toward my keratin-treated hair. Even though I don’t spend a ton of time or money on beauty stuff, it’s nice to get a few new products every once in a while like this. And hey, it’s almost the weekend, so I’ll probably have to put this stuff to use as I change out of gym clothes and attempt to look presentable.
My favorite new app of the week
A couple of weekends ago when I was in Key West, one of the girls introduced me to Squaready. It’s a free app that can turn any photo on your phone into a square. And if you’re wondering why you’d want to do that — one reason — Instagram.
Squaready turned this photo into the perfect post in seconds, even while hanging out at a bar in Key West.
Speaking of Instagram, it has absolutely become my favorite social medium. I’d love to see what you’re up to on there too, so follow me at ashleypitt_aladygoeswest, and we can connect.
My favorite links of the week
Hope you didn’t miss out on some of the good stuff from A Lady Goes West:
- The weekend and workouts — A sunny low-key weekend and my workouts
- A little healthy inspiration — Dare yourself to have a more nutritious day
- A food diary — Eating, drinking and sharing the pictures
- A virtual coffee date — Just you and me: Let’s have a chat over coffee
That’s all for today, my friends! Have a wonderful weekend!
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, Katie and Clare.
- A snack, a purse and a ritual
- A delivery, a bra and a guy
- A sweet, a wine and a read
- A drink, a gadget and a plan
- A time, a bottle and a powder
- San Francisco edition
- Beauty edition
- Beach vacation edition
- Hidden meanings
- Kicks, a book and a bowl
- The very best sweatshirts
- Party hosting and froyo
- Fourth of July daytime activity
- Beauty basics edition
- Workplace edition
- Shopping, sales and a show
- The foods I always buy
- Sushi, a game and pants
- Fitness apps
- Delicious and healthy products
- Comfort, fitness and function
- Beauty, buddha and blog events
- Dining, the city and gift ideas
- POPSUGAR, sweets and such
- A bunch of fun stuff
- e-book, food, picnic and tunes
- A link, a superfood and a mask
- Pants, shoes, food and links
- Dining, protein and goodies
- Shopping, events and a book
- A gym bag, pumpkin and juices
- Workout gear, a top and a massage
- prAna, a watch, tea and more
- Tasty stuff and gift sales
- Decor, bars, boots and a drink
- Flowers, music and more
- Coqueta, a brush and food
- My people and the holidays
- Beauty, bling and entertainment
- A hodge-podge of goodies
- Just a few special things
- Tasty food, drinks and moving
- A bunch of feel-good stuff
- Home, car and fitness finds
- Sweets, cooking, beauty and blog
- Gold, yoga, photos and more
- Celebs, scents, games and more
- Food, shoes, stretches and fun
- Purse, snack, plant and more
Questions of the day
What are you up to this weekend?
Do you have anything fun to share that you are enjoying this week?
Are you ready for spring?
Follow along with me on Bloglovin‘, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.
I can see why these things made your list of favorites. Fun post. I shared all the things that makes life wonderful on the blog today 🙂
Thanks, Jill! Hope you have a wonderful Friday and weekend!! 🙂
Never heard of that app! Need to download it. And way to go on quitting gum… I go through so much gum during the day!! Maybe I’ll give the spray a try:) Happy Friday!!
Hi Karina! I was chewing a few pieces at a time because I loved gum so much ahhaaa. It had to stop. And the app is so easy — I had always wondered how people changed the shape of pictures until someone showed me this one. Love it! Have a wonderful weekend, friend!
Don’t you hate it when the blower goes out? It’s always at the worst moment too. Thank goodness for Target! Have a good weekend!
Hi Megan! Yes, it’s usually the WORST time, but this time wasn’t terrible, because I was only drying part of my hair to put it back in a messy bun hehehe. I once had one break when I had wet hair before an important PR meeting back in my corporate days. That was no fun. Anyways! Hope you have a wonderful Friday, my friend! 🙂
I need a new hairdryer so bad. But then again, i never use one, so I’m not sure why I would get one! haha Have a fabulous weekend!
Hi Susie! You should get a new one, because the ONE time you need to use your old one, it will die. Hairdryers know how to time their demise like that ahhah! Happy Friday, friend!
That breath spray sounds great! I might have to pick it up next time I’m at Target. I also tend to chew a lot of gum, so might have to cut it out like you did.
Hope you have a great weekend! Happy Friday 🙂
Hi Gretchen! Some people feel TOTALLY different after cutting out gum, so if you do, let me know. I’d be interested to hear it. I just feel nothing, other than no gum hehehe. Hope you have a wonderfully fun weekend! 🙂
I NEED to try these Arctic Zeros!! I even loved the old ones, which my bf claimed were terrible. But cold, creamy and a little sweet, plus being able to eat the whole pint? Sign me up. I still will at 300 calories…that’s a cheap on calories dessert if you ask me!! I hope they get them on Instacart soon 😛
Latest post: Hips Don’t Lie! 3 Quick Moves to Keep ‘Em Fit for Life!
Hi Jill, That’s one of my favorite things about them – you can polish them off with no guilt. I like the mild-flavored ones because they didn’t leave me ravenous for more sweets, like super sweet things tend to do heheh. I stopped using Instacart now that we move and actually go the grocery store myself! It’s fun! heeheh! 🙂 Have a great Friday, Jill!
The breath spray is cute too! Now I’m wondering if I chew too much gum. I’m trying to quit smoking so I guess it’s at least serving a purpose. I also love the Chi products. Have a great weekend!
Hi Carissa! Well, as you know, you should probably quit the smoking! And gum — I don’t think it’s too bad for you, so if it helps you not smoke, then stick with it for a while. Hope you have a great weekend too! Do something fun!
By the way, Carissa! I know it must be super hard to drop a bad habit, so I wish you strength and determination! You can do it! 🙂
Oh man, I wish I had access to Arctic Zero! It sounds amazing! And I need that app – I’m an Instagram addict!
Hi Tara! Me too! I spend WAY too much time scrolling through IG. What a time suck. And I hope you get to try Arctic Zero one day too! Have a lovely Friday — I’m sure you’re getting some lifting sessions in? I hope to as well!
Thanks for the instagram app recommendation! I hate when photos get cut off because of the square format. Also, I am very excited to try Arctic Zero. I just started working with them this week and am going to be trying out their products next week.
Happy Friday!!
Hi Sara! Oh yay! I hope you like it! Happy Friday!! 🙂
Yes to preparing for BP launch. I am loving 93! Have a great weekend. . . glad you are feeling better!
Hi Katie! I haven’t even watched it yet – I tend to wait to the last minute, and we don’t launch until April 6, so these practice sessions are great to have to force me to get started! Have a nice weekend! 🙂
The weather is finally looking like it is going to be nicer next week…I can’t wait! And Instagram is totally my favorite too….it’s addicting! 😉
Hi Marielle, It sure is addicting! I sure hope you get some nice weather soon. Have a wonderful weekend with your new little bundle of joy! 🙂
I just bought my first pint of Arctic Zero today and I wasn’t very excited about it because I like a crunch with goodies in my ice cream 🙂 I’ll have to be on the lookout for the chunky kind!!
Hi Sue! I like crunch too, so you can throw some nuts or M&Ms in your current pint and then try chunky next heheh! 🙂 Happy Friday, Sue!
Oh you can guarantee I’ll be doing that 🙂
I have seen so many posts about this Arctic Zero ice cream lately, and have been dying to try it! We almost always buy some type of lactose free ice cream for my hubby, and he would love all these flavor options!
Hi Rachel! Yes, it’s definitely a healthy frozen dessert, so I hope you can find it and buy it soon for you and your hubs. Have a lovely weekend!!
Need to give Arctic Zero a try now when so many bloggers are raving about it!
Oh and Instagram. I’m addicted. I have a bad habit of scrolling through Instagram right before going to sleep. And it takes way too much time…
Have a fun Friday!
Hi Kersten, Sadly, I’ve been doing that too. I know it’s awful to be on your phone at night in the bed – but I’m guilty heheheh! Hope you have a great weekend!! Stay off your phone!! hahah:)
I want to try that breath freshener! Cool!
Isn’t it cute? heheh And who doesn’t want fresh breath! Happy Friday, Erin! 🙂 Have a great weekend!
Ashley- completely random, but I adore your header. Your blog is so clean, and I LOVE the feel of it.
I actually have not heard good things about the Arctic Zero pints at all! But then again, if I were to purchase a pint, I think I would keep in mind that it is low calorie for a reason.
Have a fabulous weekend Ashley!
Hi Julia! Thank you for the blog love. I like clean lines and am glad you enjoy them too! Also, as far as Arctic Zero, it’s NOT Ben & Jerry’s — it’s healthy, so you go into the experience expecting that. And when you can eat the entire pint and not feel bad about – now that’s awesome hehehe. I hope all is well with you, Julia! Have a fabulous Friday and weekend!! 🙂
I absolutely love my CHI blowdryer and hair products. Mine went out last year and it was the longest two weeks while I had to wait for a new one to come in! Loving the looks of that ice cream. Enjoy the weekend with your parents and my gosh, the game! Ha. Lucky… how did you get out of going to them all season? 😉 Thanks so much for linking up your faves, and have a great weekend!
Hi Heather, Well, I am almost always working at the gym on weeknights when there are games, and quite frankly, I just haven’t wanted to go all that often. Dave’s parents live in San Diego now (they moved from Florida), so it’s nice they can come up to see us on the way to a little vacation. I wish my parents could drop in too! Go Warriors! Have a fabulous weekend, lady! 🙂
I have that exact same Chi hair spray! I like it when I flat iron my hair (which honestly isn’t too often). I think I have an issue with chewing gum as well. I spend all day talking to patients so I’m definitely conscious of whether my breath smells good. I don’t chew it when I’m actually talking to them but I keep a pack of gum at my desk and will chew it in between patients as I’m charting. Maybe I need to look into a spray instead…. thanks for the idea!!
Hi Sam! I did that at the gym two between personal training clients and spit the gum out at the last second hehehe. I feel ya with flat-ironing too much, because I used to have to do that when I had to look more presentable everyday. My current fitness line-of-work doesn’t require it hehhe. Hope you have a wonderful Friday and weekend, my friend!! 🙂
I had to give up chewing gum a long time ago because I have a habit of clenching my jaw in my sleep and it was causing my gums to recede. Not only can I not chew gum anymore but I also have to wear this really sexy night guard to bed now, haha. Le sigh.
We have family staying in the city this weekend so we’ll be doing touristy things with them which should be fun. 🙂
I hope you have a great weekend and we need to make plans for Wente soon! xoxo
Hi Sarah! A sexy mouthguard? YES! hehehe I have a little night-time retainer too. Woohoo! And that’s SOO fun you have family visiting, so enjoy all that fun city stuff. Can you believe that Dave and I have still never gone to Alcatraz? We need to do that. hahaha Happy Friday, friend! 🙂
This is so random! I first heard about ‘hello’ products a few years ago – completely forgot about it because it wasn’t available in Canada. Found it again this week and was trying to find it at Walgreens…. and I was JUST at Target, where apparently it’s sold! I forgot to go past the toothbrush section. I need to pick it up!
Hahhaha Nancy! Isn’t that how things work sometimes? Glad you’ve heard about the products and hope you find them soon. Have a lovely weekend with your man and your dog! 🙂
The whole new Arctic Zero line is amazing.
Hi Julie! It sure is, I love the chunks! Hope you had a nice weekend! 🙂
Have an epic weekend buddy! That app sounds so handy- The number of times I wanted to throw my phone because of the lack of square lol
Hi Arman! I know! I was always so frustrated with that too, so it’s good to be able to say “there’s an app for that”!
I’ve seen Artic Zero on a bunch of blogs and my interest is piqued. Wished it was available here because I’d definitely try it! I’ll be picking some up next time I’m home 😉 On another note, I was sick on Friday and couldn’t go to BodyPump but my friend said the instructor did a preview of the new launch and it’s killer. Excited to try it out!
Oh man, guess I’m still out of it. That’s ARCTIC
Common mistake! 🙂
Hi Diane! Oh wow! We’d get in a LOT of trouble if we ever previewed the new stuff before an official launch. Glad you like the new BODYPUMP — I haven’t even watched the instructor video yet heheh. But I’ll be practicing it for the first time today. Hope you feel better!
Oh I don’t know if I like it because I wasn’t there for the preview (sick). But my friend said it was cool. Launch dates might be different here, not sure. And thank goodness I’m feeling better, thanks!
Hi Diane! Whoops! Yes, I see that your friend went and you didn’t. Well, I did some of the new BP today and like it a lot! I’ll be learning it to debut soon. Have a great day, my friend! Glad to know you’ve tried to incorporate BP back into your weekly routine when you can.
I want to dig into the cookie dough flavor! Im thinking it’d be awesome topped on warm brownies 🙂
Hi Jessie! Oh yes, warm brownies and cold ice cream go together perfectly. Good idea! 🙂 Hope you had a nice weekend!
My weekend was nice. I’m not even sure what I did on Saturday, but Sunday, we ventured out to the flea market. I love Spring. It came early here.. It has been in the high 70s and low 80s all week.. even making it to the 90s one day.
Hi Nikki! That sounds like excellent weather to get outside and enjoy the Farmer’s Market! 🙂