Happy Friday the 13th!
Seriously. Where did the week go? As I get older, time “feels” like it’s getting faster. Sometimes I wish I could blink and be a kid again. But, since that’ll never happen…I will continue being an adult while drinking coffee, reading the Food Network magazine, and paying bills.
I’m going to do a recap post and then hopefully a delicious recipe post in the morning. I’m excited for tomorrow. My mom and I are going to do a fun photo shoot with all the new items for the shop and then grab breakfast. I feel like I haven’t hung out with my parents in a while, so I’m spending the weekend with them and maybe go out with some friends Saturday night (depending how tired I am).
Today is a great day. Why? HAPPY HOUR AT STARBUCKS from 2-5PM! BOGO on the holiday drinks. I’m rushing this post, so I can go out and get my favorite, a skinny peppermint latte with 1/2 the pumps.
I finished up all the orders yesterday for the shop. Don’t forget to follow the shop on Instagram: @simplytaralynncollection for updates, sales, and discount codes!
I finally brought out the juicer. It’s been hiding away in neglect because I’ve gotten so lazy and started buying all of my juices. Making them at home is such a money saver, (not a time saver), and I like knowing exactly what goes into them and having them as fresh as can be.
Some of my favorite juicing fruits and vegetables: kale, lemon, lime, apple, orange, spinach, carrot, ginger, and cucumber.
Beets, cabbage cilantro, and broccoli are the worst in juices!
This juice had 2 large cucumbers, 2 limes, 2 lemons, 1 orange, 1 apple, 1 1/2 inch ginger, 2 cups spinach, 2 cups kale, and 4 large carrots.
I like to keep the peels on my fruits and vegetables but it’s totally optional. Some people say it makes the juice bitter, but I don’t taste it.
While enjoying my juice, I made some homemade chocolate chip cookies for Nick’s little (big) brother. He’s 13 and 6’2…dear lord!
I also made some extras for my kitchen. The temptation is real.
Quest Nutrition really hooked me up with these protein chips. They are delicious and taste “guilty.” I love the flavors as they remind me of the baked lays. I love the salt n vinegar, the cheese…I’m about to name them all.
I think the sea salt would be really good with a chocolate drizzle over them, so I’m trying that out next week.
These are low carb, low fat, high protein, low sodium, and low cal!
You can check them out on the website!
They’re perfect for cravings and post workout snacks.
End of the week desk…
My friend Rachel and I headed over to the Riverwalk to fit in a walk later in the afternoon. It was beautiful out.
We did a light 5 1/2 mile walk.
Check out that baby copperhead…
After getting cleaned up, I met up with a group of friends at Ed’s Tavern for trivia night and food. It’s so hard turning down wings and nachos, but I’m keeping my eyes on the goal.
When I got home from Trivia night, I saw this…I shared it on my Facebook page, but just incase you don’t have Facebook, I wanted to share it with you here.
I struggle with wanting to “please” people and I just need to remember that I’m the only one I need to please. I compare myself to others way too much and it definitely holds me back. Struggling to stay true to myself is tough, but I’m going to work on it everyday.
Thank you Jen for the amazing reminder.
Have you ever just woke up in a struggle? You just don’t want to wake up, your eyes are heavy, and no matter what you do, you can’t do it right? That was me this morning! I didn’t want to wake up, I couldn’t keep my eyes open, and I didn’t wanna move. I’m usually the opposite. Nick always drinks those 5-hour energy shots, so I thought I’d give a try…ew! Tasted like cough syrup! I had one sip and chucked it into the trash. I downed the water instead.
Grumples was in the same boat as me this morning. But, he looks super cozy doesn’t he?
For breakfast, I made my fruit and nut butter roll ups. I used apples and peanut butter instead of almond butter and blackberries this time.
I ran this morning and it was one of the worst runs yet. I don’t think I’m used to the cooler air and the wind storming into my lungs. As soon as I hit mile three, my lungs were burning, my head felt like it was going to explode, and my stomach was cramping up to the point where my back was hunching over. I had jumped into the shower and let the water run until I felt normal again. I also chugged water. I don’t know what happened, but it didn’t feel great at all. It wasn’t even a hard run and my body just wanted to shut down. I haven’t felt that bad since the first day I ever attempted cross fit. It’s been several hours since my run and my lungs are still on fire. I guess we have our good days and bad days.
Once I felt normal again and all those weird pains went away, I made a post workout treat. I had blueberry yogurt with blueberries, chia seeds, toasted muesulli oats, and raisins.
It was delicious.
I took the pups over to my parents house so they could run around in the backyard.
We are working on Tino’s catching skills. He’s improving! Usually he just lets the ball or treat hit him in the face.
They were only all over me because I had food.
Speaking of food…how good does this look? It’s gluten free apple crisp and I’m thinking about making this tonight! I’m in the mood for healthy comfort food. You can find this recipe on my Friend’s blog: Healthy Living Maintenance by Anna Phelan! She has amazing gluten free recipes!
I’m also late on posting this! The other night I had grilled chicken drummies and veggie fries!
Now, it’s time to dive into my popcorn, catchup on Nashville, and then head out and grab my Starbucks and groceries!
THREE QUESTIONS FOR YOU:
- What is one healthy dish you’re going to make for Thanksgiving?
- What are your weekend plans?
- What is your favorite juice/smoothie recipe?
Desire says
I’m going to do my first 5k this weekend! You inspired me to start training and I read your blog everyday for the motivation. Thank you!
Taralynn McNitt says
Good luck!! Let me know how it goes 🙂 xo
carlee says
Mashed Cauliflower will be on my Thanksgiving menu! Spending the weekend enjoy the last home game for Louisville (GO CARDS!!!) Pray for sun!
Taralynn McNitt says
Love me some mashed cauliflower! I like to add a couple potatoes to the cauliflower for a thicker texture.
Have fun at the game!!
Alena says
I am making a healthy macaroni and cheese dish with butternut squash as one of the ingredients! This weekend I have to work but I have off next weekend. I usually do a sweet smoothie with bananas, mangos or strawberries along with almond milk or water. If I had a juicer I’d totally make some juice!
Taralynn McNitt says
YUM!!! I need that recipe!!!
I love mangos in my smoothies, especially in the summertime. 🙂
Lauren says
Going to try to make roasted brussel sprouts this year for Thanksgiving. I’m always looking for good veggie side recipes, since everything else is just starch and butter. Not that that’s a bad thing…:).
Taralynn McNitt says
I’ve never been a brussel sprout person (unless their drenched in butter and garlic) lol, but if you find a good recipe, let me know! I want to like them so bad!
Allie says
I hated them for ever but wanted to like them!! I found a recipe that includes bacon and thyme and roasts them in a pan and found that made all the difference as they don’t get that gross watery “juice” that squishes out when you bite them!! So now I’m a convert of my forever most hated vegetable 🙂 my son though? He just picks out the bacon lol! But I get him!! I wouldn’t be done the same.
Taralynn McNitt says
Hahaha he sounds like me! But you can’t go wrong with bacon…i may have to try!
Niki Patterson says
My Nanny has the best outlook on people trying to please others so remember this next time, “If they don’t like it they can die mad”…lol. My Nanny is hard core!
Taralynn McNitt says
Love that!
Chandler says
Hi Taralynn! I love you and your website! You’re such a positive inspiration, and I’m so proud of you, and your sunny attitude. One healthy Thanksgiving dish I’m making this year are green beans! Just plan green beans in spite of all the carby dishes, with some toasted almonds! Absolutely delish.
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you Chandler!!
Green beans is my favorite Thanksgiving side! I have my my sweet green beans for the past four years and I enjoy those with Turkey! I think I need to add almonds instead of sesame seeds this year!
xo have a great weekend!
amy says
i’m getting a juicer for christmas! so excited. although i do have to disagree on one point- i love beets in my juices! haha
Taralynn McNitt says
Lol some people really do like beets in their juices. I made the mistake of adding purple cabbage once………eeeeew!
Adorkable says
Hi Taralynn,
I know we are supposed to be looking at the ladybug but all I could think was how amazing your arms look. Do you have any tips for getting skinny arms? Do you lift weights? Push ups? Thanks for responding.
Taralynn McNitt says
Lol, I actually hate my arms. I shouldn’t say “hate”, but they aren’t my favorite part of my body. I do little arms weights here and there but I don’t focus on them as much as I should. I’ve been cutting weight with running and strength training, and that has helped them. I’d love to start building muscle, and making them more “cut.”
When I’m walking the treadmill, I like to hold five pound weights. I do the lady version of push ups and hold the position. I also live by arm circles! Thank you Gwyneth Paltrow!
Tessa says
I thought this same exact thing when this photo popped up on my snapchat! Looking good girl!
Taralynn McNitt says
THANK YOU TESSA 😀
Brooklyn says
You have such a gorgeous kitchen! My kitchen is literally the size of your island haha.
http://www.justbeingbrooklyn.com
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you Brooklyn! Sometimes little kitchens are the coziest though!
Penny says
Speaking of, are you still doing cross fit and karate?
Taralynn McNitt says
I did cross fit a couple of times, but I literally don’t have the time to do it right now with school, so i’m sticking to running and strength training. And I made it to my yellow belt in karate lol, but I didn’t feel like driving thirty mins from my place three times a week, so I’m going to find another place closer.
Chelsea says
1. I’m Canadian, already had thanksgiving! I made devilled eggs using avocado instead of mayo… not exactly healthy, but not terrible!
2. Homework homework homework… Life of a student
3. My favourite smoothie recipe is: 1 (partially frozen) spotted banana, 1 tbsp of peanut butter, a good handful of spinach (can’t even taste it!), and a cup of almond milk. It tasted like chocolate ice-cream for some reason! Love it.
I bought a Vitamix blender last year and will never go back to juicing. It pulverizes the vegetables into juice (I add a bit of liquid of course). No chunks left over, and way more cost efficient than juicing because you’re not throwing away residue! It’s definitely my favourite healthy item that I own.
Taralynn McNitt says
Avocado in your deviled eggs? That sounds so good!
I feel ya on the homework. I spent my friday night trying to knock it all out so I could relax today and tomorrow!
I love spinach in smoothies because you really can’t taste it and it blends so well! I will have to try your smoothie combo! Sounds delicious 🙂 My brother let me use his vitamix and it’s literally the best blender ever! It does make your smoothie taste like ice cream. If you blend frozen bananas with cocoa powder and walnuts, it’s legit like ice cream! I bought a Ninja and love it, but I think the Vitamix will be my next!
Niki says
Here’s a website for deviled eggs using avocado.
http://www.skinnytaste.com/2013/03/guacamole-deviled-eggs.html?m=1
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks!!
candace says
Do you have a recipe for sugar free or low sugar cranberry sauce?
Taralynn McNitt says
The Wellness Mama has a great recipe! She adds applesauce!
http://wellnessmama.com/3392/sugarless-cranberry-sauce/
Hannah says
This weekend is my first 5 mile run in the rain and cold! Not the best weather, but it will still be good. Also,I recently have discovered Trader Joes green juice and I really want to try and make it on my own, I’ll see how it goes! This is my first time commenting on your blog, but I love reading it and just wanted to let you know. It’s a perfect example of moderation of healthy and treat foods.
Taralynn McNitt says
That is exciting (minus the rain and cold) BUT, it’ll make your next run so much easier! Let me know how it goes!
I love the TJ green juice. Have you had their cherry juice yet? it’s really good!
& thank you for the kind words about my blog! That means a lot 🙂
Hannah says
The run went well, there was a huge elevation gain so the hills were tough, especially when I was still cold, but the last part went great! I’ll have to try the cherry juice next time I go to TJ’s, it looks great.
Taralynn McNitt says
Nice job! Hills and I don’t get along, but we’re trying!
Jacqueline Miller says
I love your posts! I am not a hard core blog follower but I check your blog all the time. You have the best recipes and fun information. I am sorry you had a rough run. I am dealing with a possible stress fracture and cannot run without pain. It stinks. I think I am going to have to stick to the elliptical for a while. Anyway, I wanted to share the amazing butternut squash soup recipe. I am making some for Thanksgiving. It has squash, carrots, onion, apples, and is spiced with cumin, chili powder, salt, and garlic. I put a little pumpkin in it too. It is amazing. I hope you feel better tomorrow. Maybe Friday the 13th just wasn’t kind to you.
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you Jacqueline!
SO sorry to hear about your stress fracture. I know how difficult it is to experience pain while running and it’s incredibly frustrating because you can’t do anything about it. When I was dealing with my injuries, I stuck to swimming and strength training. Just keep fighting through it 🙂
I’m so glad you shared that recipe, because I’ve been craving butternut squash soup! I love the idea of adding carrots and apples! That sounds so so so good! Do you have the exact measurements for everything? I’d LOVE to make it!
xo
Jacqueline Miller says
Hey Taralynn!
I am fortunate because my dad is a doctor. Lol. He threatened to put me in a boot if I keep running ?. I am going to stick to low impact and strength training for a while I guess. I miss running!
I got the recipe from a friend at work and made it like 4 times within a couple weeks. It has several steps because you roast the veggies first, then simmer, and then purée. It really is not that time consuming though. Roasting them adds to the flavor I think! I got the recipe from paleogrubs.com. It is at : http://paleogrubs.com/butternut-squash-soup-recipe
I hope you like it. The cumin and chili powder give it just a bit of warmth. So good, enjoy!
Jacqueline
Taralynn McNitt says
Very fortunate!!
Thank you for that recipe:) I can’t wait to try it out!
Linda @ The Fitty says
Weekend plans involve shopping for new design for my stagecraft project and also some yoga since I injured my left calf.
Taralynn McNitt says
You’re always up to something fun and creative! I hope your calf starts feeling better, but yoga sure does sound relaxing!
Emily says
Hi Taralynn! Your posts have inspired me to look in to getting a juicer. Do you think it’s worth the money? I love SUJAs and drink them frequently but would love to make my own!
Taralynn McNitt says
If you drink Suja’s, then you’ll most likely be saving a ton of money! Those juices are 4.99-6.99 (depending size/store) and a juicer is around $100. If you use it everyday/five times a week…you’ll definitely be saving. I used to get a juice from Earth Fare for $5.00 everyday. That is $35.00 a week! All of the fruits and vegetables above cost me around $20! and I can get at least 15 12oz juices out of them. That’s like $1.30 a juice verses the $5.00 store-bought ones! And if you can find your fruits and veggies at a farmers market, you’ll probably save even more!
Lauren says
What brand are the veggie fries? They look awesome! Would be nice for a side dish with a salad, a nice little cheat 🙂
1. Not sure, I love love love green bean casserole and would love to try and make that healthy!
2. Explore Bend, OR some. Supposed to snow this weekend!!
3. I’ve never juiced before, but I can’t ever pass up a greek yogurt/ice/strawberry smoothie 🙂
I too also follow your blog everyday, love the updates and the motivations!
Taralynn McNitt says
Here is the link! http://eatveggiefries.com & they are a game changer. They are 10x better than regular potato fries.
Pinterest is filled with an abundance of healthy green bean casseroles. I like to make my sweet green beans every thanksgiving.
SNOW? EEEEK! Stay warm!
& I love a greek yogurt smoothie!
Have an amazing weekend Lauren! & if you find a good green bean casserole recipe, make sure to share! xo
Tessa says
This weekend I am going to my first college football game! I have made your cinnamon rolls for the past two thanksgivings!
Taralynn McNitt says
That’ll be so much fun! Are you tailgating too?
& those cinnamon rolls are my Christmas go-to!!
Lynds says
That apple crisp recipe looks so good! Thank you for sharing her blog because I’m GF!
Taralynn McNitt says
She has great GF recipes!!
Alana says
Where is your green bean recipe?
Taralynn McNitt says
http://simplytaralynn.com/?s=green+bean 🙂
Sarah says
My mom and I make pies the night before! I like to make one of them light:)
Taralynn McNitt says
That sounds like so much fun! I do the same:) One year, I made a healthy cherry meringue with a graham cracker crust!
http://simplytaralynn.com/2012/10/29/healthy-cherry-meringue-pie-for-a-healthy-holiday-treat/
Hannah says
Your running posts are so motivating! Keep it up!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you Hannah!!
Makki says
Taralynn I love your posts! You made my days at work everytime better! 🙂 And I want cookie right now 😀
Have a great day!
Makki
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you Makki! That comment just made my day:) have a great weekend!!
Maricel says
What activity tracker do you use?
Taralynn McNitt says
Runkeeper! I find it he most accurate:)
Allie says
ooo! I needed inspiration to get working out and this did it! Thank you for sharing the Runkeeper app! Time for this girl to go for a run now! (: Keep up the great writing, Taralynn! I love reading!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks Allie! Let me know how your runs go 🙂 xo ox
Maria says
What kind of blueberry yogurt did you use for your post workout treat?…. I’ve been trying to find a good one.
Taralynn McNitt says
It was just a Harris Teeter brand. I usually use siggi’s or yoplait greek.
shanna says
did I read you live in an apartment? your kitchen is gorgeous!
I posted the same Jennifer aniston thing. it fits me perfectly.
I don’t know what I’m making for thankgiving yet, but it will more than likely contain sweet potatoes.
I’m working today, then a birthday party tonight and tomorrow it’s chores and food prep.
my smoothies start with spinach, a banana and whatever I can find in the fridge to dump in it.
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you!!
Sweet potatoes are a Thanksgiving must 🙂 I like to make a giant pan of roasted vegetables with the addition of sweet potatoes.
Hope you had fun at the party! xo
& as long as you have a banana, you’re smoothie is golden! xo
Colleen says
Have you heard of the blog “Oh She Glows?” I’m making a vegan apple crisp on Thanksgiving from her cookbook and can’t wait to try it out! I’m always the one to make a healthy dessert and once everyone figures out it’s clean they roll their eyes at me! It’s very funny. Hope you have a great Thanksgiving & weekend Tara! <3 xoxo
Taralynn McNitt says
It sounds familiar! I like the idea of having healthy desserts 🙂 I’m going to try to keep it pretty healthy this year, but we’ll see….;) xo
Melanie says
LOVE the Jennifer Aniston quote!
I’m still tossing around ideas but I know I want to make a healthy side dish with sweet potato! My fav! Did you end up making the apple crisp? How did it turn out? Thinking of trying it…
My favorite smoothie is strawberry banana with almond milk!
My weekend has been pretty low-key. Lots of studying and watching football!
p.s Hope your Hawks get a win tonight! 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Nope I’m making the apple crisp tonight 🙂 & strawberry banana & almond milk is one of my favorites with honey!
Our weekends were pretty much the same and WOO HOOO WE GOT OUR HAWKEYE WIN 10-0 BABY!!!
Amy says
Love your Kitchen Aid!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank You!!
Kristin C says
We are traveling to my inlaws’ house in the mountains, so I will not be making anything. I wish we could have it at our house so I could make some awesome dishes!
This weekend, I spent the afternoon at my family’s new farm in Cowpens, SC. They just got a Great Pyrenees puppy so I was getting lots of puppy love 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
That all sounds like so much fun!!
Alison says
Would you be willing to do a post on how you organize your workout clothes/ closet?! I need some inspiration 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
I can 🙂 Thats a great idea.
Heather says
I think this year I’m going to make honey roasted sweet potatoes instead of having tons of mashed potatoes and that casserole with the marshmallows.
I love green juices except I’m not a fan of cucumber so its hard for me to find some without the cucumber taste. I do have a juicer…just have been too lazy to make my own!
Looks like a great week…I need to remember the starbucks happy hour thing i alwasy forget!
Taralynn McNitt says
That sounds REALLY REALLY GOOD!
I love the cucumber because it adds more “juice”, but you definitely need some lime and fruit to cover up the flavor.
Unfortunately they forgot my espresso and my syrup in my espresso drink AFTER i waited for twenty mins….ugh….
Heather says
Good point–maybe if I add more fruit when it comes out too cucumber-y! haha! thanks!
Kim says
I did a half marathon this weekend out in the cold. I got my PR, but holy cow my chest was hurting just like that. For a super long time after the run I just felt like it hurt so much to breathe. It was in Richmond, VA and it was crazy cold that morning. I hate running in the cold! So much that my last weeks of training were not that great. I was shocked that I ran so fast (for me) lol.
Also treadmill running sucks. Just sayin.
Taralynn McNitt says
Wow! Nice job on the half though! Cold or not, you did it and that is freaking amazing! I’m just like you though, cold sucks and so does the treadmill! ughhh.
Amanda says
Hey Taralynn! If you didn’t already know, AdvoCare makes a much better version of the 5 Hour Energy shots, called SLAM! They are less bitter in taste, but still give you the kick-in-the-butt when you need it!
https://www.advocare.com/140917928/Store/CatalogView.aspx?id=search
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks Amanda! 🙂
nina says
My days are so much better with your updates. This may sound weird, but you are my token to a better day.
Taralynn McNitt says
That means so much to me 😉 xo
Ashley says
1. I’m from Hawai’i too (hey!) now living in Northern Cali and plan on cooking some garlic shrimp for a Thanksgiving get together at a friend’s house.
2. I’m having a girl’s night in since my husband will be working a terrible 12 hour shift. Do you have any recommendations on healthy appetizers?
3. Not a juicer person.
Taralynn McNitt says
Heyheyhey 🙂 Garlic shrimp….yum:) I’m making my garlic parm scallops tonight & garlic parm potatoes!
Lettuce wraps are always good healthy appetizers, fruit kabobs, grilled veggie/chicken/shrimp kabobs, guacamole, carrots, and hummus, and here are more :)http://simplytaralynn.com/category/recipes-2/appetizers/
Lizzie says
Have you tried yoplair Greek 100 whips! They’re my all time fave for desserts now. I think they would be excellent on some type of recipe but I’m no cook ?
Taralynn McNitt says
I do love the whips! They’re good with whipped cream on top 🙂
Tessa says
Hi Taralynn!
I just wanted to say I love reading all of your posts! I have been following you for a very long time and enjoy all of the recipes you have, reading about your life is very inspirational. I am struggling with weight loss and I was wondering if you have any tips for a person who is on a budget. I get bored of the same “healthy” food that I eat, but when I try to mix it up it is $$$. Do you have any advice?
I appreciate it!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Tessa!
Thank you 🙂 If I were you, I’d make a menu and plan out your meals. Make sure all your meals can use up the ingredients from another dish. EX: Tuesday have lettuce wrap tacos, but use up the lettuce and toppings in a salad the next day. Just make all the meals cohesive. Also, what kind of foods are you eating that you’re getting bored with? I can come up with a list for you!
Amanda says
One healthy dish I’m going to ATTEMPT for Thanksgiving is brussels sprouts! I hate them. I hate them, hate them, hate them… but I know how healthy they are and how many people love them, so I think I must just be making them wrong!
Taralynn McNitt says
I ALMOST bought them yesterday to make…but couldn’t do it. I’M IN THE SAME BOAT AS YOU…
nessa says
You are my favorite 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
well thank you ;:)
Denda says
Love all your healthy eats and workout posts!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you!!
Rose says
I love the idea of making juices at home. I buy them all the time at work and I’m spending way too much. I spend somewhere around $45 a week on juices!
Taralynn McNitt says
THAT IS A LOT!
Becka says
You have the cutest running leggins!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you! TJ MAXX 😀 & Prismsport!
Tara says
Your kitchen is cute! I work for a company that designs custom jars. I’d love to send you some!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks!! You can email me at taralynnmcnitt@gmail.com 🙂
Sara Rose says
WHERE DID YOU GET THAT TIE DYE SHIRT?! IM IN LOVE!
Taralynn McNitt says
It’s up in my shop 🙂 http://simplytaralynncollection.com
el says
I wish you lived in California! I have a clothing line and I want you to model for me! I think you’re a doll and a great roll models for girls.
Taralynn McNitt says
Awww thank you El! I’ve never been to California before!
Jess says
Is your brother coming home for the holidays?
Taralynn McNitt says
My parents are going up to see him 🙂
Janie says
I think I saw you on Campus yesterday…I didn’t want to be a creep! Was that you?
Taralynn McNitt says
Mmmmmm I don’t think it was me! Must have a twin 🙂
Diana Mendoza says
You are one amazing gal!
Taralynn McNitt says
Back at ya!!
wawa says
Out where you live is BEAUTIFUL! I’d be out for a walk too!
Taralynn McNitt says
I love it here 🙂