Friday Favorites: Smoothies + Crossbody Bags
Happy Friday, friends! I feel like this week flew by, but it was a good one, full of the kind of small, simple joys that make up so much of everyday life. Between rediscovering an old favorite I’d forgotten how much I love, finally finding something I’ve been searching for, and soaking up some extra time outdoors, I’ve got a nice little mix to share with you today.

I always love putting these posts together because it’s a good reminder to slow down and notice the little things that made the week feel good. So grab a coffee (or a smoothie, since that’s actually first on the list) and let’s get into it.
Smoothies are back!
It’s been ages since I last made a smoothie, but I did this week, and I had forgotten how delicious they are. This one had vanilla protein powder, vanilla Greek yogurt, a frozen tropical fruit mix, and a splash of water.

One tip that keeps me from ending up with those gross chalky clumps of protein powder is adding ingredients to the blender in a specific order. The first thing I put in is water, then I add the protein powder right on top. Having it sit directly on the water helps it mix in thoroughly. After that, it doesn’t matter whether the yogurt or frozen fruit goes in next.
Crossbody Bag
Since I’ve been taking transit more often, I’ve been on the lookout for a crossbody bag. I wanted something I could wear instead of hold, so if my hands are already full with other bags, my purse is one less thing to worry about. While I don’t know if it’s that I’ve been extra picky or that crossbody bags are just less popular than they used to be, it took me forever to find one I actually liked.

I ended up buying this one from Amazon, and even though I’ve only had it about a week, I’m loving it so far. The shoulder strap is adjustable, so I was able to get it to the perfect length. I like to wear my bags a bit lower. It has a couple of external pockets that are great for tucking away things I reach for often, like my phone and keys. It’s also a great size, big enough to fit everything I need without feeling bulky.
Eating al fresco
Between the summer weather and having the chairs, canopy, and flower pots set up on the back deck, I’ve been loving eating outside lately. I think I appreciate it even more because Calgary gets so much cold winter weather, so you better believe I’m taking advantage of every warm day I can get.

My favorite meal to eat outside is definitely breakfast. There’s something about starting my day outdoors, taking in the flowers, grass, and trees instead of scrolling my phone, even if it’s about as “nature” as you can get in a backyard in a city of 1.5 million people. It just gives me such a nice, calm start to the day.
This weekend
A few weeks ago, I bought a ticket to tour the gardens and interior of a historical house here in Calgary. I’ve wanted to check it out for a while. I’ve visited the gardens before since they’re open to the public, but I haven’t been inside the house yet. The weather isn’t looking like it’ll cooperate, since rain is forecasted, but I’m still really excited to go. Fingers crossed they’ll still let us tour the gardens even if it ends up raining.
That’s it for this week’s favorites! I’d love to hear what’s been making you happy lately, smoothie tips, bag recommendations, or your own favorite outdoor breakfast spots. Drop a comment and let me know, and have a wonderful weekend!
