Today is a special day. On this day, exactly six years ago, my life changed forever. It was on this day, which was also a Friday, that I met a bunch of my friends at one of our favorite downtown bars in Orlando for happy hour after a long week of work. There was a group of about 10 of us, including my older brother, and we were all gathered at a table. I saw a guy walk in, he caught my eye, and I kept a watch on him for a little while, until our paths crossed and I decided to talk to him. Once we started chatting, we realized we lived in the very same high-rise building in downtown Orlando and shared a lot of common interests. We exchanged phone numbers and never looked back. As you may have guessed, that guy was Dave, who is now my husband of nearly three years. We had a chance encounter, which was clearly meant to be. Throughout the years, we’ve always tried to celebrate the anniversary of the day we met, because we’ve been together nonstop from that day forward. And here we are now in San Francisco all grown up.
In light of that, and the fact that it’s a Friday before a three-day weekend, I’m in very peppy spirits today, my friends. Dave and I have a lot of fun ahead, and for once, I’m not teaching any group fitness classes at all. We’re going out to dinner to a new restaurant with two of our friends tonight. And we’re taking a little trip up to Napa tomorrow to do some wine tasting. I must say that wine country is my happy place. Even though it’s only an hour drive from San Francisco, we haven’t been in far too long, so I’m eager to bask in the smell of grapes. However, you came by the blog today for some fun “Friday Favorites,” and so I’m going to give those to you right now. Let’s go!
My favorite domestic accessory
Leave it to my Momma to give me something so-very-domestic for my birthday this year — a polka-dot apron. Her vision behind this adorable item, is not only for me to keep my clothes clean while in the kitchen, but also to give me some extra culinary inspiration. I’m pretty good with cooking when I give it a shot, yet tend to stick to the same basics. But once I put this little number on, all of a sudden my ability to whip up masterpieces with many ingredients should skyrocket. Right?
The Martha Stewart Collection Polka Dot Apron displayed in front of my teeny-tiny kitchen.
Hopefully so, because I made a goal to cook one new-to-me recipe every month during 2015, and I haven’t done my first yet. Nonetheless, I love a thoughtful gift, and this is definitely a good one.
My favorite way to picnic
I think presentation of food is important. I always like to display my food nicely on my plate. And when I’m eating with others, hostessing or just putting together a meal for Dave and me, I like to spend even more time to get it looking just right. Who says you can’t enjoy the aesthetics of your sustenance? Dave and I used to be big on making “nibbly picnics” at home, which consisted of nothing but finger foods for dinner. We don’t do it as much anymore, but a couple of weeks ago, we had a few nice spreads two days in-a-row. Here’s a taste of what I put together …
A look at a few fancy trays of food I arranged, featuring various crackers, chopped-up apples, pears, salami, cucumbers, almonds, fancy cheeses, roasted cauliflower, pigs in a blanket, hummus, shrimp cocktail, more crackers, fruit, cheese and meat. Good stuff.
Finger foods may not be the healthiest way to eat, but they are certainly a fun way to eat, making it so you can taste all of the good stuff. But truthfully, even at restaurants, I really enjoy making a meal out of appetizers rather then ordering an entree, but we don’t seem to do that very much. Those pretty silver trays up there? Compliments of our wedding registry just a few years ago and still getting plenty of use.
My favorite new glass
Another gift from my Momma. If you were reading A Lady Goes West back in December, you’d know that I received a cool wine glass at a Christmas party gift exchange and immediately dropped it, shattering all over the hosts’ apartment. Well my Mom remembered that story and came in with a much-appreciated substitution.
This is the Lolita Love My Wine “Wine Tasting” Glass
and it surely suits me.
I haven’t used this wine glass yet, because I’m saving it until we move. I don’t know why I do that, but a lot of times I save new things for a while before opening them up. Same goes with clothes. Nonetheless, I can just picture myself in my bigger apartment, in my leopard-print pajamas, feet up on the couch asking Dave to “bring me my wine” all the way over in the kitchen, which will be at least a few feet away more than it is now. Oh, domestic bliss.
My favorite new piece of jewelry
I love a good long pendant necklace to dress up any outfit. I received this necklace in the December POPSUGAR Must Have box, which was so kindly gifted to me by the POPSUGAR ladies. There were a lot of great things in that box, but this necklace was my favorite thing. Speaking of the POPSUGAR Must Have Box, that’s something else I really enjoy. If you’ve never heard of the monthly subscription service full of curated goodies, check it out today. <<affiliate link!>>
A lovely shot of the Sydney Pendant Necklace by Sparklepop.
I had a few compliments on this little beauty while home in Florida over Christmas break, so I felt like it was worth sharing. So shiny and dressy. Maybe I’ll throw it on for wine country tomorrow? Who knows.
My favorite links of the week
I’ll admit it, I spend a lot of time online. But there’s a ton of good stuff out there to read. Here’s what happened on A Lady Goes West this week and some additional enjoyable links.
- Fun and fitness – My weekend recap, weekly workouts and a review of CORE40 studios
- Foam rolling 101 and a big giveaway – How to foam roll and a RumbleRoller giveaway (This giveaway closes tomorrow, so be sure to enter!)
- Food and drink – Joining a healthy green movement and my eats
- Fashion and thoughts – A Thursday well-suited for Thinking Out Loud
- An awesome shout-out for A Lady Goes West by one of my blogger friends – Favorite Bay Area Blog Buddies
- A FitFluential post featuring my recipe – 10 healthy green smoothie recipes to try
Okay, friends! After some work, I’m heading off to try out a new Pilates-based workout class, attend another laptop training session at the Apple store and start my weekend. If you want to see some pictures of wine and cheese from Napa, be sure to check me out on Instagram. Have a fabulous few days!
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
Questions of the day
Do you have any fun favorites to share today? What are you planning to do this weekend? Do you have Monday off of work? If you have a significant other, do you celebrate the day you met? Fill me in!
Sara @ Lake Shore Runner says
Your at home picnics look awesome – I am all about the cheese and meat board! Oh and I am the same way. I hold onto things before using. For instance I got a new Tervis for my birthday (in April) and haven’t used it yet. I told myself I would not use it until I got a new job 🙂
Sara @ Lake Shore Runner recently posted…Friday Favorites & Friday Five: Items Im Loving Lately
Ashley says
Hi Sara! Okay, scary, because that sounds EXACTLY like something I would do heehe:) Happy Friday, my friend. Oh, and I drink water out of a Tervis EXCLUSIVELY. 🙂
Ashley recently posted…Friday Favorites: Just a few special things
Becky @ Olives n Wine says
Awww… happy 6 year “meeting” anniversary! I love that you two celebrate that occasion, it’s so sweet! I’m heading over to enter your giveaway now – This week has been busy and I haven’t had a chance to do my normal blog reading!
Becky @ Olives n Wine recently posted…Friday Favs
Ashley says
Hi Becky! Well thanks for entering! And hope you have a great weekend!
Ashley recently posted…Friday Favorites: Just a few special things
Lauren @ The Bikini Experiment says
The apron is super cute! I have aprons but I never wear them. I have to jump out of the way if coconut oil splatters. Dangerous for sure. 🙂 Love how you and Dave met – such a cute story. Enjoy the weekend! I so want to get to Napa Valley one of these days. 🙂
Lauren @ The Bikini Experiment recently posted…Friday Faves {1.16.15}
Ashley says
Yes, Lauren! Wine Country is a must-do! Hope you make it out here one day. Happy Friday!
Ashley recently posted…Friday Favorites: Just a few special things
Bri says
Ohhh I love that apron! You look so adorable in it!
Since I’m not married to my S.O., we celebrate the day we met in person (we met online).
Happy Friday to you Ashley 🙂
Bri recently posted…Best gift ever during birthday staycation week extravaganza
Ashley says
That’s awesome that you met your S.O. online, Bri! And of course, thanks. Have a wonderful weekend!
Ashley recently posted…Friday Favorites: Just a few special things
Carrie (This Fit Chick) says
oh my gosh I love that picnic spread!!! sent that photo to my boyfriend– we’re doing that!
Carrie (This Fit Chick) recently posted…How You Can Survive the Holidays
Ashley says
Hi Carrie!! Ohhh good! I bet the boyfriend will like it! Have a great weekend! 🙂
Ashley recently posted…Friday Favorites: Just a few special things
Jessie R says
Love the apron and happy First Meet Dave day!
I met my boyfriend at work, turns out we went to the same university, worked as graduate assistants on separate floors (in the same building!) during grad school, and we didn’t know each other at all!
Have a great weekend in wine country!
Ashley says
Jessie! That’s crazy! How funny, but sounds like you were supposed to get together with all those similar and shared experiences. Time for vacay yet?? Go have fun!! 🙂
Ashley recently posted…Friday Favorites: Just a few special things
Lizzie @ The Magic Tree says
I just adore that story of how you and Dave met! Have you ever shared wedding photos on here?
Lizzie @ The Magic Tree recently posted…Favorite Finds Friday {1/16}
Ashley says
Hi Lizzie, Yes, On our two-year anniversary I shared some photos. Check it out: https://aladygoeswest.com/2014/05/26/two-year-wedding-anniversary/
Ashley recently posted…Friday Favorites: Just a few special things
Heather @ Housewife Glamour says
Aw, that’s such a cute story! I’m so glad you went out to that happy hour after work 😉 Oh, Napa Valley! So fun. I’ve never been, but Scott has a few times! I hope to get out there sometime soon. Enjoy the weekend to unplug and off of classes! <3
Heather @ Housewife Glamour recently posted…Friday Favorites #72: Week of 1/16
Ashley says
Thanks, Heather! Yes, you’ve got to make it to wine country one day. It’s beautiful and always a good time. Have a fabulous weekend! 🙂
Ashley recently posted…Friday Favorites: Just a few special things
Megan @ Skinny Fitalicious says
Happy Anniversary! What I want to know is what did you say to Dave that night in the bar? I’m so bad at starting conversations with people. There’s a guy at my gym I have my eye on, but I’m not sure what to say which is funny because I don’t have that problem with anyone else. On another note, I love your apron. I need one of those! Enjoy your weekend Ashley!
Megan @ Skinny Fitalicious recently posted…100 Calorie Double Chocolate Chip Greek Muffins
Ashley says
Hi Megan! Thanks! My opening line was about the fact that the happy hour only had 10 minutes left. He apparently liked that line. 🙂 heheheh When the time is right to talk to your gym guy, it will just come to you. I promise:) Happy Friday!
Ashley recently posted…Friday Favorites: Just a few special things
Sarah @ Making Thyme for Health says
Aw, I loved reading the story of how you and Dave met! It really was meant to be. 🙂
And you look so cute in your apron! That was sweet of your mom to get you it and remember the story about the wine glass.
Have a blast in Napa and drink lots of wine for me! Happy Anniversary!
Sarah @ Making Thyme for Health recently posted…Fresh Orange Creamsicle Smoothie
Ashley says
Thank you, Sarah!! Would love to hear your meeting tale one day too:)
Ashley recently posted…Friday Favorites: Just a few special things
Marielle says
Napa is the best, have so much fun! My favorite place up there is Domaine Carneros.Check it out if you have time, they have the best Pinot !
Marielle recently posted…Survey Time
Ashley says
I haven’t been to that one yet believe it or not. We have two spots planned already for tomorrow so maybe next trip. Have a great weekend, Marielle! 🙂
Ashley recently posted…Friday Favorites: Just a few special things
Nancy says
That’s what I call a “snack plate” over here. I love eating a bunch of random finger foods for lunches or supper 🙂 So good.
Nancy recently posted…POM Friday . 10
Ashley says
Great minds think alike, Nancy! 🙂
Ashley recently posted…Friday Favorites: Just a few special things
Melissa Burton says
I do celebrate the day my husband and I started dating (24 years ago this February – yes, I know that makes me OLD!). We always take the day off (if we can manage it) and do something special. Enjoy your big plans! I heart wine country too!
My favorite post this week was my post today about BraveHoods, a one-for-one not-for-profit that gives a hooded t-shirt to a child with cancer for every t-shirt sold. This company was started by a mom whose child went through cancer treatment and I love that they’ve chosen to take their pain and decided to help others. BraveHoods is trying to win a contest to get them $10K via KINDSnacks to give 13,000 BraveHoods away in 2015 and I wanted to do anything I could to get the word out.
Have a great long weekend!
Melissa Burton recently posted…Friday’s Featured Female – The Ladies of Bravehoods
Ashley says
Hi Melissa, That’s so awesome that you’re spreading the word about Bravehoods. It’s always nice to do a little good with your influence! And, I’m also glad we’re not alone that we celebrate little anniversaries other than the wedding! It’s fun to do. Hope you have a great weekend! I’ll have a glass of wine in Napa for yoU! 🙂
Ashley recently posted…Friday Favorites: Just a few special things
Whitney @ French Fry Runner says
What a great “first meet” story! 🙂 I love that apron too! I have two types of aprons: the “hard core, I live in the kitchen, stained ones” and the cute “special occasion” ones. Good luck with your recipe goal! 🙂
Whitney @ French Fry Runner recently posted…Friday Five: What’s In My Gym Bag?
Ashley says
Hi Whitney!! hahah good to know. I’ve never used an apron before, so this one will have to do for all occasions. Hope you have a fabulous weekend. Thanks for stopping by to say hello:)
Ashley recently posted…Friday Favorites: Just a few special things
Jess @hellotofit says
Great apron, and happy meet-iversary! No plans yet for this weekend, and I’ll be working Monday. Hope you have an awesome holiday!
Jess @hellotofit recently posted…Recipe of the week: Slow cooker spiced wheat berries
Ashley says
Hi Jess! No plans is sometimes a good thing. Whatever you do, I hope you have a great weekend. Happy Friday! 🙂
Ashley recently posted…Friday Favorites: Just a few special things
Tamara @ A Side Of Dessert says
Ok, I need the wine glass and necklace!! Love them!
Tamara @ A Side Of Dessert recently posted…Fun Fact Fridays
Ashley says
Hahha thanks Tamara! I hope you have a great weekend! Cheers:)
Ashley recently posted…Friday Favorites: Just a few special things
Lauryn says
What a sweet story!! Happy anniversary! I love when things are just meant to be like that 🙂 Also…huge fan of finger foods/snacking/meat plates. Can’t stop won’t stop!
Lauryn recently posted…Down South in Charlottesville + a Healthy Comfort Food Recipe
Ashley says
Hi Lauryn, Thanks! And yes, finger foods are the best. I hope you have a great weekend! 🙂
Ashley recently posted…Friday Favorites: Just a few special things
Kaylin @ Enticing Healthy Eating says
Well happy “meeting” anniversary to you and your husband! I also am loving the polka dot apron and the wine glass. My mother bought me an apron a while back from anthropologie online.
Kaylin @ Enticing Healthy Eating recently posted…Vegan Banana Blueberry Muffins
Ashley says
Hi Kaylin! Thank you! Moms are the best when it comes to gifts, aren’t they? Hope you have a great weekend!
Ashley recently posted…Friday Favorites: Just a few special things
Cassie @ Almost Getting it Together says
Happy “meeting” anniversary! So cute you still remember the day! Have so much fun in Napa! xo
Cassie @ Almost Getting it Together recently posted…Pressed Juicery Juice Cleanse Review
Ashley says
Thanks, Cassie! I do love me some wine country! Hope your weekend is full of fun! 🙂
Ashley recently posted…Friday Favorites: Just a few special things
Sue @ This Mama Runs for Cupcakes says
OMG, I love that apron, so cute!!!
Sue @ This Mama Runs for Cupcakes recently posted…Mint Chocolate Chip Protein Smoothie Recipe #foodiefriday
Ashley says
Thanks, Sue! Hope you have a great weekend:)
Ashley recently posted…Friday Favorites: Just a few special things
Beth @ Running with the Sunrise says
Happy meeting anniversary! That’s such a sweet story. Your picnic layout looks fantastic! I’m a fan of finger foods, too. I tend to be more of a grazer, so finger foods work really well for me. Hope you have a great weekend!
Beth @ Running with the Sunrise recently posted…Easy Blueberry Green Smoothie Recipe
Ashley says
Hi Beth! Thank you! The weekend is great so far. I’m glad you’re a fan of finger foods too, it’s just more fun to eat that way. Hope you have a lovely evening! 🙂
Ashley recently posted…Friday Favorites: Just a few special things
Chloe - A Latte Lipstick says
Aww I love celebrating romantic dates! Happy 6 year meeting anniversary! Adore that apron!
XO Chloe
A Latte Lipstick
Chloe – A Latte Lipstick recently posted…Step Up Your PJ Game With Nighties
Ashley says
Hi Chloe! Thank you!! I hope you’re having a great weekend:)
Ashley recently posted…Friday Favorites: Just a few special things
Kelly - A Side of Sweet says
Happy anniversary! Pat and I do something similar! Love the apron – it definitely says, “I’m a serious chef making serious food”. 🙂
Kelly – A Side of Sweet recently posted…Yogurt Brûlée Recipe (Opt. vegan)
Ashley says
Thanks, Kelly! I hope to become more of a serious chef in it! 🙂
Ashley recently posted…VIP wine-tasting experiences in Napa Valley
Tricia @ A Couple of Dashes says
Your apron is absolutely adorable! I really need to invest in one. I always spill things on myself or things splatter all over me. I’m a mess!
Tricia @ A Couple of Dashes recently posted…5 Things Friday – Lady Dates, Ewok Dogs and A Hole In My Heart!