Hi Guys!
I had so much fun with this post. If you’re not in the fall mood yet, I hope I can help! I did some fall shopping, baking, visited the pumpkin patch, and ran some “fallesque” neighborhoods in Charlotte over the weekend. I made sure to include a ton of photos and a couple recipes. I usually do my recap posts on Thursdays, but this one is long enough and I’ll be spending that day finishing up my Halloween costume! The upcoming weekend hasn’t even happened yet and I’m already excited to blog about it.
It has been such a beautiful day. I’ve been working inside all day, but can’t wait to get out for another walk tonight. I took Grumples for a four mile walk this morning. I used to think coffee was my favorite part of the day, but it’s actually my walks with Grumples. He has a weigh-in on Friday and I hope we get some good results back. They are the best company. Sometimes working from home is hard with these two, but it’s worth it. I can’t get over their cuteness. My last recap post left off on last Thursday.
I met up with the best running partner, Meighan, that night to do a quick three miles. We try to do our fast miles on Thursdays. We usually do our long walks on Tuesdays, but I’m listening to my body and giving my knees a break tonight. I’m just going to do a couple with Grumples.
We love to walk a couple miles from uptown to do our run and walk a couple miles back after our run. I stopped at the grocery store to grab some ingredients for dinner on the walk back. I bought a spaghetti squash, broccoli, turkey meatballs, and organic pasta sauce. Hello fifteen minute dinner! I love meals like this because they’re inexpensive and it makes enough for the next couple of days. I love the connivence of leftovers.
It was all about Fall on Friday.
I shot some of the new arrivals for the Simply Taralynn Collection shop. Everything will be shipped out tomorrow and I can’t wait to post all the new outfits. Some of my looks are all below!
I headed to the Bush-N-Vine farm on Friday afternoon with my mom to check out the pumpkin patch. This place just screamed FALL. Everything was so pretty.
Farm fresh strawberry ice cream 🙂
I didn’t think strawberries would be good this time of year, but these were incredible! I’ve been snacking on them all week. Apple cider slushies…sign me up!
My mom and I love fall. Halloween is one of her favorite holidays. She used to make all of my costumes growing up.
My new plaid coat 🙂
I fell in love with this coat because it reminded me of my childhood. My mom used to take my brother and I out for photo shoots. This plaid dress was my favorite! I begged my mom to let me wear it all the time. Plaid will never go out of style 🙂 I stopped into CVS to grab trail mix and came out with an entire basket full of fall goodies. 🙂 I LOVE their fall selection. These pumpkin cookies were gone in two days. Kyle and my dad devoured them…My parents came over on Friday night for dinner. My mom made enchiladas and then we took Grumples for a super long walk! He was the happiest dog on the planet.
The lucky pup got another four mile walk in the morning with Kyle and I.
I made myself some eggs and jelly toast when I got back. I’ve been using a delicious fig jelly with Melt spread on my whole wheat toast. I also made an almond milk iced latte. This has unsweetened almond milk, stevia, espresso and ice.
Kyle and I split some delicious Chinese food at Soho Bistro for lunch. We weren’t hungry enough to order our own meals, but couldn’t turn down good Chinese food. This place is so good and it’s located uptown! We told them it was Steve’s birthday and they brought him out a slice of sweet potato caramel cheesecake. They were the sweetest.
We all headed to the outlets to shop.
I had an afternoon pick-me-up from Starbucks. It had skim, espresso, and one pump of pumpkin spice.
We spent the night watching Black Mirror, our latest binge-watch. That show is so good. Each episode has a different storyline, but portrays the dark side of modern day technology. It’s kind of scary to watch because we aren’t too far from turning these scenarios into reality. I was so excited for my Sunday run. I made a big egg white omelet and wheat toast with fig jelly to go with my cup of coffee.
I packed some Quench Sports Chewing Gum and Energy Chews in my new belt. This was the first time trying out the belt and I really liked it. It fit my giant phone in it, which was a plus. I tried the ones at Dick’s Sporting Goods, but they were too small.
Meighan and I set out for nine miles. We ran all through Freedom Park, Sugar Creek Greenway, and the gorgeous neighborhoods around Queens Road.
I loved all of the hills and scenic trails. We did nine miles in one hour and thirty minutes. I think we made pretty great time! We chopped off about a minute from our average pace.
TIMES: M1-9:45 M2-9:55, M3-10:00, M4-10:20, M5-10:13, M6-9:30, M7-9:49, M8-9:50, M9-9:30
I’m definitely going to take it easy this week. I can feel some sharp pains in my knee, so it’s all about ice, strength, and stretching this week!
I picked up a salad for dinner at Chopt. I crafted my own and it is by far the best salad I’ve had at Chopt so far! They need to add this one to the menu! 🙂 My salad had Kale, spinach, grilled chicken, falafel, goat cheese, hard boiled egg whites, cucumbers, roasted seasonal vegetables, chickpeas, tricolor quinoa, pita chips, fried onions and balsamic vinaigrette on the side.
I picked up some cupcakes and ice cream at the Fresh Market for Steve’s birthday! Pumpkin pie gelato…its as good as it sounds. The Fresh Market had a peanut butter explosion cupcake. The frosting was pure peanut butter fudge…
I passed out at 9:45 on Sunday night. I was so exhausted!
Leo had his second vet appointment Monday morning. He was ten pounds on his first visit and now he’s sixteen!
I took Grumples for his walk after getting back from the vet. It was a beautiful day!
I headed to the 7th Street Market to pick up an iced coffee from Not Just Coffee. I made pumpkin spiced Oreo balls on Monday afternoon. I’m getting hungry just thinking about these delicious treats. I decide to do a marble with the pumpkin spiced Oreos and the original.
The Oreo balls are always a hit! I made Christmas peppermint Oreo balls and white chocolate Halloween Oreo balls a couple years ago.
Use a blender or food processor to crumble up the Oreos. Add the crumbled pumpkin spiced Oreos to a large mixing bowl or use an electric mixer with 1/4 cup of plain cream cheese. If you don’t have an electric mixer, you may want to use your hands to combine the cream cheese and Oreos together. Repeat with the chocolate Oreos! Roll one tablespoon of each flavor together to form marbleized balls. Melt the pumpkin spiced candy melts. If I had to redo these, I’d add white chocolate bark or white chocolate chips to the pumpkin spice melts. They were SUPER strong and needed a little white chocolate to tone it down. Dip the Oreo balls into the melted chocolate and add them to the tin foil to harden. Add sprinkles! These Oreo balls are so addicting! They’re not as pretty as the ones Ive made in the past, but just as tasty!
For dinner I had a large salad topped with rotisserie chicken! I’m going to go on a big grocery shop tomorrow and restock the fridge. I’m thinking roasted vegetables and some salmon!
Questions for you!
- Have you carved pumpkins yet?
- Describe your day in one word.
- What should I add to my grocery list?
Lindsey says
Make sure to ice and take the week off if you’re feeling pain in that knee girl!
Taralynn McNitt says
I will for sure!
Ashley says
1. Nah, not into carving pumpkins (until I have a home at least)
2. Exhausting
3. Falafel from trader joes in the freezer section. I love cooking falafel, letting it cool and adding it to a salad with feta and vinegarette.
Love the house, so cute and styled perfectly.
Taralynn McNitt says
Yes it can get kind of messy!!
At least the day is almost over! 🙂 Get some sleep!
I heard their falafel is so good!! I bet it’s good on a greek salad. Thanks for reminding me to get this!!
xo
Anonymous says
I love your site! Fall is my absolute favorite, and it’s helping me get over a bad breakup. I started writing about it here, would love for you to check it out! https://lettersicantsendhim.wordpress.com
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi! SO sorry you’re going through a bad breakup! Hang in there and remember that “this too shall pass” and there are bigger and better things ahead! It’s great you’re writing as an outlet! xo
Aleysha says
I cannot handle how cute Leo is!! Can totally relate to the struggle of working from home with a puppy though. I work from home and have a (now) 6 month old Great Dane puppy. Pretty sure my productivity was cut in half the first 3 months of having him home haha. 🙂
1. Not yet! It’s on my to do list for this weekend though. I mostly just carve pumpkins so I can roast the seeds and snack on them, if I’m
Being honest here
2. Productive. I actually had a great day at work today and knocked a ton off my to do list despite running on only 2 hours sleep.
3. Not a grocery list item exactly…. but my local Starbucks had a drink of the week that was a game changer. It was espresso, almond milk, pumpkin spice and chai tea. I don’t remember the exact proportions exactly, but it was seriously fall in a cup.
Also the new halo top flavors if you haven’t had them yet! Sooo good.
Thanks for the fun recap 🙂 Have a great rest of the week!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Aleysha!
YES he’s soooooo cute, but puppies are just nonstop barking, eating things, chewing, biting, ahhhhh! But I love him 🙂
I dont blame you haha. I can’t wait to do some cinnamon honey seeds!
2 HOURS OF SLEEP!? GIRL…I hope you get some sleep!
OH THAT SOUNDS SO GOOD! I love chai and I bet its so good with pumpkin.
I hope you have a great week as well! xo
Brittany Joy says
Have you carved pumpkins yet?
No, I don’t know if my fiancé and I will be this year, we hardly have any time together this week. I have been enjoying pictures of everyones though!
Describe your day in one word.
Relaxing. I worked midnights all weekend so today I read The Elite and The One (from The Selection series, highly recommend) and am now drinking wine while watching The Office!
What should I add to my grocery list?
Sweet potatoes, I have been loving sweet potato fries lately!
Taralynn McNitt says
I’m hoping to do my pumpkins on Friday night or Sunday!
Your night does sound relaxing! I love the office:) Kyle and I watch it every saturday morning.
MMMM sweet potatoes!
Hannah says
Hi Taralynn! I love this post! So fall-ish. 🙂
I was wondering if you could give some advice on how to balance sweets and eating healthy, especially since the holidays are coming up. I’m kinda (ok, a lot haha) addicted to sugar and do really well when i’m not eating it at all but when I let myself have some, I go crazy and end up binging on sugar. I notice that you are able to be healthy and still balance sweets with exercise and healthy food. Any advice?
Love your blog!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Hannah!
Thank you 🙂
Finding balance is the best thing you can do for yourself. Do you find yourself more addicted to sugar when you restrict yourself from it? I never tell myself no. If I want something, I’ll eat a couple bites of it or small portions. If I didn’t eat it, I’d want it more and more. Everything in moderation is key. Because you’re not eating it at all you’re depriving yourself. Don’t EVER get upset if you eat some sugar or something bad. It’s a lifestyle and you can eat whatever you want. Make sure to exercise, treat yourself in moderation, and be happy! Don’t overthink it or get frustrated. Just try to reach for healthy food as much as possible, but don’t forget the unhealthy food as well.
xo
Kathy says
Been following you from the UK for years. Thanks Tara Lynn, you inspired my visit to the States earlier this month. I spent 3 weeks exploring Georgia, Florida and South Carolina. Savannah was my favourite. I hope to come back in a few years and visit Charlotte ?
We don’t ‘do’ Halloween here really, so its nice to read your blog.
Be careful with that knee. I’m an ex runner and now a long distance swimmer as running buggered my back and my husband was a marathon runner but running striped his knees of cartilage, so he cycles now. Be sure to keep an eye on it x
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you Kathy! I’m so glad you enjoyed your visit to the States! Savannah is one of my favorites as well.
I will for sure be careful with that knee. I’m taking a break from running this week and will only do about six miles on Sunday! Thank you for looking out xo xo
Jaime Stoddart says
1. Yes I carved pumpkins with my Nieves and roasted the seeds with some salt! My favorite treat for Halloween for sure 🙂
2. Amazing (for 5am ?)
3. Tortellini! My favorite in the fall months 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
oh yum! I can’t wait to roast some cinnamon honey pumpkin seeds!!
5AM AND AMAZING? Thats a win.
OH YUM!
jaime says
Yay you found a belt!! I’m glad you found one that fits your phone 🙂
1. No but I did a corn maze so that’s one fall thing lol.
2. Hasn’t started yet but i’ll describe yesterday – relaxing.
3. Hmm I would say to add falafel mix to recreate the yummy salad you made at chopt!
Taralynn McNitt says
Yes!:) Im so glad I found it!
I’ve actually never done a corn maze!
Relaxing days are the best.
I think you’re right 😉
Linda @ The Fitty says
1. ALL THE THINGS PUMPKIN SPICE!
2. Now where can I find a friend that’s willing to stick with me for 90 minutes of running?!
Taralynn McNitt says
It’s that time of year for sure 😉
I got lucky!:)
Emily Weir says
No pumpkin carving yet! Maybe this weekend 🙂 It’s just such a messy process, but is always so much fun in the end!
One word: chaotic. Hillary Clinton is in town and is interfering with meetings I have downtown 😉
And something you should add to your grocery list: Wild Friends Pumpkin Spice peanut butter. All of their flavors are so good! And since we share a love of pumpkin spice, I think you’ll love it.
Taralynn McNitt says
It’s DEFINITELY an outdoor product! The dogs love eating the pumpkin scraps and its healthy for them, so that’s a plus!
Haha well Donald Trumps is in my town today, so I feel ya.
That will be staying OFF my list…GIRL I’LL EAT THAT WHOLE JAR! haha Maybe i’ll add some pumpkin butter~
xo
Kindell says
You are a doll!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks kindell!! so sweet xo xo
Atheena says
1. No I haven’t yet.
2. Happy! Just got my bonus! 🙂
3. Apple Cider tea…all time favorite!
Taralynn McNitt says
WOOOOHOOO for the bonus! 🙂
Apple cider tea is so good!!
Myriam says
1) Have you carved pumpkins yet?
No, and I don’t think I will 🙁 because I had planned to do it on Monday with my boyfriend but we forgot he has German lessons during the evening so… 🙁 At least we’ll have dinner together in a restaurant and then go back to his place to watch a scary movie 😀 Here in Spain Halloween’s not really important but I’ve always loved it.
2) Describe your day in one word
Mostly horrible and exhausting here at work >_<
3) What should I add to my grocery list?
Have you ever tasted carob? 😀 I use it all the time to prepare my cookies and brownies!
Taralynn McNitt says
When I was in France it wasn’t as big as it was in the states, but we all stayed in and watched scary movies!It’s kind of fun to celebrate.
Hopefully our day is almost over!
YES I have a bag of carob chips in my cabinet. I was going to make a peanut butter carob sauce to dip my banana and strawberries in!
Shannen says
Love the pumpkin photos! Where did you get those boots you wore with the pink sweater?! Leo is getting so big! I plan on carving pumpkins either later today or tomorrow morning. I went with a white one this year! Are you carving a pumpkin this year? One word to describe my day.. Probably comfy. I slept in and the weather is rainy and I have a candle lit while I drink my coffee and catch up on blogs! Lately, I’ve been on an avocado crave and would love more recipes including them.
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks Shannen!!!
Those boots are Steve Madden!:) You can find them at DSW! Leo has gained 6 pounds:) I still need to do my Halloween costume and carve pumpkins on Sunday!! I have never carved a white one but that could be cool for a ghost. Comfy is a great word! I love those days. MMMMMM avocado & the best way to eat it is gauc style.
Bethany @LuluRuns says
First of all, love your pieces in your collection/ totally drooling over those jackets! ?
We haven’t carved pumpkins yet, but we bought one, now it’s just waiting to be carved, haha.
Nice job your runs too! You are killing it, I hope your knee heals up really quickly!
My day in one word- unpredictable. Benaiah is still not on a predictable schedule yet, so my work, workouts and everything else happens whenever it can. (I.e. I was running in the rain last night ?)
Have a great rest of your week girl!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Bethany!
Thanks so much. I can’t wait to see your pumpkin!! I’m doing mine on Sunday.
I think the knee is fine! I took five days off and the pain seems to be gone and I’m running tonight, so that’ll be the ultimate test. I ended up buying new shoes today!
Unpredictable can be fun sometimes. You’re such a badass for running in the rain! xo
Have a fun weekend.
Chandler says
Hi Taralynn!
1. Have you carved pumpkins yet?
No, but I am going to this weekend at my cabin! 🙂
2. Describe your day in one word.
BUSY. I had a long, intense meeting this morning at work (all good things), and there’s a lot to do! Plus, I’m planning a wedding on top of all my work and crazy schedule 😉
3. What should I add to my grocery list?
Trader Joe’s Quinoa Cowboy Veggie Burgers. Oh my, these are amazing, and good for you! I think you might love them. They are insanely flavorful. I eat them plain, no ketchup, mustard, bun, nothing! They are made out of quinoa, and have black beans, corn, red bell peppers, and other yummy things in them, and have a bit of a kick, but not spicy. You must try them (if you have a Trader Joe’s around there)!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Chandler!
That’ll be so fun!
At least the meeting is OVER and you can enjoy your weekend filled with wedding planning!!
I need to go to Trader Joes asap. I love black bean and anything “southwestern-y”
Have a great weekend.
Amanda T. says
Wow is that your house? It’s beautiful! I can’t wait for my husband and I to buy! we’ve been in tiny apartments while in grad school – I can’t wait to have a full kitchen again and be able to cook regularly!
Taralynn McNitt says
No no no no! I wish:) It’s MY DREAM house. You’ll be in a house with your husband before you know it! xo
Karli says
This post TOTALLY got me in the mood to do fall things. It’s so cold here (Ohio) and it’s been gray and rainy all week and I haven’t really been in the fall spirit =( . This post gave me the itch to wear everything plaid and go play in the leaves.
I unfortunately have not carved pumpkins yet. I live in an apartment with a cat and a dog so having carved pumpkins is tough because I don’t want them to try to eat them!
Your photos of running and walking with your pups really makes me wish it has been nicer so I could get out too. I hate being outside in the wind and rain, Yuck!
Lovely photos. It looked like an unbelievably fulfilling weekend!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Karli!
Good:) Thats what I wanted. It’s always acceptable to wear plaid and play in the leaves. I hope the weather clears up for you! We are back to 80 again…there goes the fall mode.
Well…just incase you do…pumpkin is healthy for dogs! I’m jealous you can have a cat and a dog. I wish Grumples liked cats or I’d have like three.
Wind and rain is never fun! I’m sure it’ll be walking weather soon.
xo xo
Mackenzie says
I am quite jealous you get to play in the leaves! Here in northern California they don’t really fall much. They just change colors a bit (at least for now). After this post I need to get to pumpkin patch ASAP. And Those pictures of you as kids and now are toooooo darling. You are killing it on the running front, but I hope that knee heals up soon.
– Planning on carving them this weekend!
– Yesterday was productive
– TCHO Mokaccino chocolate. It is the best chocolate bar I have ever tried… I prefer dark chocolate but this is still amazing with milk chocolate and blue bottle coffee in the bar. So good.
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Mackenzie!
I bet they have great pumpkin patches in NCali though! I haven’t had knee pain the past couple of days so I think I’m in the clear. I took five days off from running and will run tonight!
I am going to have to look for that!!!
Please share your pumpkin photos with me!! xo
Lauren @ Following the Path of Life says
Leo is so cute!!! (And of course Grumples is, too!) And your fall colors are beautiful; Alexander and I saw a lot of beautiful color in Michigan but not much in Missouri, so we’ve been curious about how far-spread the colors are. And I really need to try those Oreo balls sometime….I’ve seen you post them a few different times on here and they look delicious.
1. Nope, no pumpkin carving. But I have made chocolate chip pumpkin cookies, pumpkin spice pancakes, and roasted pumpkin seeds!
2. My day so far…Preparatory. 🙂
3. As for adding something to your grocery list…hmm…I’ve been enjoying pumpkin spice/pumpkin chai tea lately! That’s kind of my fall go-to drink; is that something you enjoy as well?
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi lauren!
I bet it’s so pretty in Michigan right now! And I cannot believe you haven’t had the oreo balls yet……THEYRE SO GOOD! & easy to make.
You’ve been doing tons of fall baking!:) I love it.
I need to be preparatory today!
Ohhh yum. Thats a good idea. I love chai and I bet it would be good with pumpkin!
Jessie @ The Acquired Sass says
1. I haven’t even BOUGHT pumpkins, let alone carved any. That’s one thing that’s no fun alone & Mr. Sass’s work schedule hasn’t given us much time together in the evenings, so probably no pumpkins for us this year.
2. Chaos. A deer slid down a hillside & couldn’t catch his footing & almost hit my car this morning. Thankfully I was paying attention & he got his footing back & scampered away. Then I’ve had like 6 conference calls in a row, when I usually have ZERO meetings.
3. Honey goat cheese & a baguette. We’ve been snagging a baguette each week since it’s delicious dipped in ANY soup. But, honey goat cheese spread on a baguette slice with a glass of red wine sounds like a perfect Friday night snack & a good way to unwind.
I fall-ed pretty hard the last week or two, and have a fall party & some hikes planned with friends. So I’m excited to whip up all things pumpkin in the kitchen this weekend.
P.S. those mugs, the blue one & the white one that appear to be the same. I LOVE THEM. Do you remember where they’re from?!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Jessie!
Well hopefully you can have some time together this weekend!
OH YUM! SOUNDS SO FRENCH:)
I can’t wait to see all your fall creations.
Um…those ones with the specs? they’re at target and literally on sale for 2.98 right now!!
Jalene says
I just ordered the camel jacket! Cant wait:)
Taralynn McNitt says
They’re all ready to ship out in the morning:D
Ariel LaVenture says
Taralynn,
Your posts are always so fun, inspiring, and lovely! I am digging the fall posts, because I feel like I haven’t done too many fall-related things yet – sigh, I’m living vicariously through your pumpkin spice-filled life. Pumpkin carving will definitely happen this weekend and hopefully a haunted house and/or corn maze.
My day in one word is definitely an ADVENTURE.
My new favorite thing from TraderJoe’s is the Fall Harvest Salsa with pumpkin, apples and butternut squash…SO GOOD!
Happy (early) Halloween!
Cheers,
Ariel
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you Ariel! That means so much 🙂 Sounds like you’re going to have a fall filled weekend and those are the best!
Adventure sounds fun!!
FALL HARVEST SALSA? yum…..I need.
& thank you! I hope you have a fun weekend.
Erin @ Brownie Bites says
I LOVE Halloween, but I can’t stomach the inside guts of a pumpkin! So I don’t carve them. I just place uncarved ones around the house to look pretty and I use plastic light-up ones for my Jack-O-Lanterns outdoors. 🙂 If I could purchase pre-gutted pumpkins, I’d love to carve them… you know, kind of like paying someone to clean your fish for you before you bring it home to cook it? Same thing!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hahaha that is so funny. I LOVE THE GUTS! I like to roast the seeds & I’m sure you could come up with a really cool recipe. You may have something there with the pre gutted pumpkin idea! 🙂
HannahJane says
Nice job on that run! I love your recap posts.
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you Hannah!!:):)
Trista says
Hi Taralynn! I’ve been following your blog for a few years now and I always love reading your recap posts and looking through all of your pictures! I’ve recently gotten into photography and was curious what kind of camera and what editing program you use? Happy fall and enjoy the rest of your week!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Trista!
Thank you so much:) & yay! photography is so much fun. I just use a Cannon REBEL and play around with some apps on my phone!
I hope you enjoy your week as well xo!
Teresa says
1. My husband and I actually paint pumpkins instead of carving them. I feel like I can be even more creative and it’s less messy. My family painted them for years so we continue that tradition 🙂
2. Day is frustrating. I’ve been back and forth with doctors for pain in my knees and back.. knee pain is a result from running..back pain is a result of decreased activity and not being able to stretch out my back. I have to find a balance!
3. I’ve recently become OBSESSED with Cedar’s Chipotle Flavored Organic Hummus. I find myself getting bored with original or red pepper/garlic hummus and this is the perfect amount of taste & spice. I eat it with Pita & Carrots for lunch almost every day.
Have a good Wednesday! 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
I did a mixture of paint and carving last once and it turned out so cool. I’ll most likely do the same this year. I want the pumpkin seeds inside!:)
Sorry your day is frustrating:( I hope it gets better!
I love a spicy hummus. I do the supremely spicy flavor:) I’ll have to try the chipotle one! i like it with cucumbers and carrots. I have no self control with pita chips!
Jess says
1. I have not yet carved pumpkins, but in Florida, it’s best to wait until the day of Halloween. 😉
2. My day in one word: Normal. Full of work, exercise, grocery shopping, but no complaints here.
3. Pears and blue cheese. There’s this fabulous recipe by Ina Garten that makes me think of fall. It’s fairly simple to find online: “Roasted Pears with Blue Cheese.” It’s divine.
The house looks fabulous- I love how you’ve decorated it! I love seasonal decor.
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Jess!
We are going to do pumpkins this weekend. I think I’ll do a couple because I have way too many ideas!
Normal isn’t bad. 🙂
Blue cheese is a never for me lol I do like pears!! I LOVE Ina Garten and i know what recipe you’re talking about. I could do it with goat cheese!
Carly says
I love all of the fall, running, food, and dogs in this post! I am most defiantly in the fall spirit now!
I don’t think I’ll be carving pumpkins this year… living in an apartment theres not really anywhere to put them, and my Moose would Love to eat it given any opportunity!
My day is one word would be have to stretched into two… dog filled. I think the only things I accomplished were dog related… dog bath, dog walk, playing ball, another dog walk, literally sitting with the dog on the couch as I type. Dog day for sure!
My new favorite thing I’ve recently discovered is Spindrift Sparkling Water…. I found it at Costco but I know Target has it too! Its the perfect amount of bubbles and light crips flavors! I’m also currently obsessed with all kinds of squash for roasting… butternut and acorn squash are on the menu tonight!
Good luck to Grumples on his weigh in! I’m sure he’ll do great! Also I can’t believe how fast Leo is growing! Puppies grow up so fast! Hope he’s learning lots and staying out of trouble too!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Carly!
So glad you’re in the fall spirit now. Mine may be dying now because it’s 80 degrees again.
Hahaha Grumples loves to eat the pumpkin guts!
Um…I feel ya. I spent ALL DAY grooming grumples yesterday. I think I did a pretty good time for a first time groomer & then I bathed the both of them.
Ohhhh roasting squash sounds good!
XO XO
Brooklyn says
The house you did your photo shoot at is BEAUTIFUL AND SO FALL-ESQUE!
I love all of the pumpkins in this post 🙂 My fall so far has been all pouring rain 🙁 And no pumpkins anywhere!
Leo has the cutest serious face ever! I love how him and Grumples actually look like brothers!
My day in one word = wet. It’s pouring rain and I’ve had to go out to run errands, and I have to go out again in a few hours. I love the rain though to be honest 🙂
http://www.justbeingbrooklyn.com
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Brooklyn!
Thank you so much 🙂 It definitely put me in the fall mood.
We have not had rain since the hurricane, and now we are getting 80 degrees…:(
Omg… he always does serious face! He is literally the dog version of grumpy cat.
Hope you have a fun halloween weekend.
xo
Caroline says
Hi Tara! I’m a longtime reader and absolutely love your blog! This is an out of the blue request but would you ever consider writing a post about how you got over your last relationship/what you did to move on and meet Kyle? I just got out of a 3 year relationship and I am having the hardest time right now. You and Kyle look so happy!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Caroline!
Thanks so much 🙂 That’s definitely something I probably won’t write about lol I don’t really like talking about past relationships on the blog. A lot of people have no problem doing it, but I just like to leave the past in the past. HOWEVER, you can email me and I’ll definitely talk to you! I do that with a ton of readers who are going through the same thing. And thank you for the kind words. Kyle is wonderful and I’ve never been this happy!
xo
Linda @ The Fitty says
Do you typically get a lot of rain where you are? Sometimes that discourages me from running.
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Linda!!!! Sometimes…this year not so much (other than the hurricane) I think it definitely discourages me as well because the treadmill is no fun!
Natalie says
I love all your posts. 🙂 I follow you on snapchat now. Sometimes when I’m feeling lazy I see your running snaps, and it motivates me to get my run in.
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Natalie!
Thank you:) I need to step up my snapping game. I always forget I have it!
Lidia says
All of your clothes are so cute. You look every happy!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks Lidia xo
Rachel says
Hi Tara!
Great job on the running! So awesome! I too am making strides in my running progress and so pumped about it. I’m signed up for a 15k turkey trot for thanksgiving. As far as your knee pain goes, I have to tell you that I started taking a collagen supplement powder everyday and I just mix it into my coffee in the morning. I used to have a lot of hip joint pain after lots of miles running, and now apart from general muscle soreness, I have no joint pain. And even the muscle soreness has decreased. That might be helpful for your knee. You can probably pick up a supplement powder from whole foods. And plus, it’s great for your skin!
Also as far as what you should put on your grocery list, I have been digging eating kimchi and sauerkraut. The kraut you can put on a million different things, I know it sounds weird. But the kimchi is so GOOD and it has helped my tummy issues tremendously. That and a great fall treat is homemade granola with all the pumpkin goodness! I’ve been loving it on these fall mornings. Hope grumps appt goes ok today!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Rachel!
Thanks so much:)
I’m going to go to CVS ASAP and get some! Thank you so much for the suggestion.
I don’t know how you do sauerkraut. I just can’t! Now the homemade granola sounds amazing.
xo xo xo
Melodie says
Have you carved pumpkins yet?
No! I don’t know if I’ll have the time to do so this year (probably not)… University keeps me so busy It’s my last year and I basically have no life as I have so much work and projects to do. I really love carving pumpkins though.
Describe your day in one word.
Depressing. It’s my last day of Reading Week today so school starts back on Monday. My parents just left from a week long visit. We just had our first snow here (Canada) and it’s cold. I try to stay positive. I have my dog Rufus with me and I’m home wrapped in a blanket Love cocooning.
What should I add to my grocery list?
Poppy seed salad dressing. It’s my latest addiction. Love it with kale, chopped cabbage, chopped Brussel sprouts, dried cranberries and pumpkin seeds. Yummy!
On another note, great job on your long run! I just did my first marathon last weekend and ended doing a time of 2 hours 5 minutes 19 seconds. 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Totally understandable! I hope to get around to it on Sunday! Although doing NOTHING sounds amazing too! Nice job focussing on your UNI and I’m sure you’re so ready for the year to end!
Oh no:( At least you can cuddle with your pup!!
That salad sounds amazing!
WAIT that was your first time marathon time!?! or half?!? thats amazing!
xo
Melodie says
Oops! I meant half-marathon! Haha I’m still scared of doing a whole marathon! One day! Thanks! I’m so ready for the year to end!
xx
Taralynn McNitt says
I was going to say…you better start training for the olympics if thats your first marathon time! hahaha & congrats on your half! Thats great time!
Gabrielle says
Hey Tara, I know you were looking for fall scents for your diffuser…I happened to be reading an article and found these “recipes” for fall scents and thought you might enjoy! Definitely going to try some myself!
Pumpkin Pie– 5 drops cinnamon bark + 1 drop clove + 1 drop nutmeg
Pumpkin Spice Latte– 4 drops cardamom + 2 drops orange + 1 drop cinnamon bark + 1 drop clove + 1 drop ginger
Sweater Weather– 3 drops eucalyptus globulus + 2 drops juniper + 1 drop sage
Mulled Cider– 4 drops orange + 2 drops nutmeg + 1 drop cinnamon + 1 drop clove
Autumn Hike– 4 drops cypress + 2 drops Idaho blue spruce + 2 drops sandalwood
Spiced Chai– 3 drops cardamom + 2 drops cinnamon bark + 2 drops clove + 1 drop ginger
Woodland Walk– 3 drops frankincense + 2 drops Idaho blue spruce + 1 drop cedarwood
Falling Leaves– 5 drops orange + 1 drop patchouli + 1 drop ginger
Orange Pomander– 3 drops orange + 2 drops clove + 2 drops rosemary
Snickerdoodle– 5 drops Stress Away + 3 drops cinnamon bark + 1 drop nutmeg
Thanksgiving– 4 drops Christmas Spirit + 3 drops clove + 3 drops lemon
Cozy Flannel– 4 drops bergamot + 4 drops orange + 4 drops Stress Away
Cider & Donuts– 6 drops Stress Away + 3 drops cinnamon + 2 drops orange + 1 drop nutmeg
Freshly Baked Cinnamon Rolls– 5 drops Stress Away + 3 drops cinnamon bark
Apple Cider– 4 drops Thieves + 2 drops orange + 1 drop nutmeg
Trick-or-Treat– 3 drops grapefruit + 2 drops orange + 1 drop lime
Harvest Time– 3 drops tangerine + 2 drops cinnamon + 1 drop clove
Apple Pie– 2 drops cinnamon bark + 2 drops clove + 1 Stress Away + 1 drop nutmeg
Thanksgiving Joy– 3 drops cypress + 2 drops Northern Lights black spruce + 2 drops sandalwood
Grandma’s Stuffin in the Oven– 3 drops rosemary + 2 drops thyme + 1 drop sage + 1 drop lemon
Taralynn McNitt says
OMG! THANK YOU!!! this is amazing.
Brittany M. says
Hi Taralynn,
I haven’t carved any pumpkins, but I did take my daughter to paint a pumpkin. She loved it!
If I could describe my day in one word it would be “cumbersome.” Cue the emo music, or the actual song “Cumbersome” (which I prefer).
Blueberries!
Question for you: How do you respond to negative criticism on social media?
Have a good weekend!
Brittany
Taralynn McNitt says
Painting pumpkins are just as fun!
Haha love that!:)
I dont. I believe in keeping everything positive and only focussing my energy on positive and happy moments. If someone has anything negative and hurtful to say to someone they’ve never met, then they have their own issues and I can only pray for them. 🙂
I hope you have a good weekend as well!
xo
Lindsay @ A Runnaroundd Life says
You are so gorgeous, girl, inside and out <3 I LOVE these long recap posts! And OMG can we talk about Fall. It's the best best best! 🙂 Thanks for being such a positive light.
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Lindsay!
Thank you so much:) we can talk about fall anytime anyday!
Thanks for the kind words. I hope you had a fun weekend!
xo
Hannah says
Are you still dating kyle?!
Taralynn McNitt says
Yup!:)
Maria says
Hey taralynn! Such a great post!
The fall I seriously so beautiful!
I was wondering if you have any advice or are thinking of doing a post on how to deal with bullies/mean girls in life. I’m currently a high schooler and trying to figure out how to deal with it all.
Also I just wanted to say I love your blog, you have such a great, positive outlook on life and it’s so amazing, your journey!
I apologize if this is a duplicate comment. I tried posting one before and I’m not sure if it did.
Thanks so much!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Maria!
I agree 🙂 I love fall so much. It puts me in a wonderful mood.
High school is definitely a hard time. (it was for me anyways) If you’d like to email me (taralynnmcnitt@gmail.com) I’d love to give you some advice and we can talk! I know it can be tough, but there are definitely things you can do to change it all around. I promise! Please email me 🙂
Thank you for the kind words about my blog! That means the world.
Keep your head up & happy halloween!
xo xo
Maria says
Thank you, I definitely will!
Hannah says
All of your clothes are so cute. Can you get more cardigans in?
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you Hannah!
I’ll make sure to add it to the order! xo
Brittany says
Loved this post!! I am studying abroad right now, so I love seeing all of the Halloween/Fall festivities happening back home in the States 🙂 Seeing all of the pumpkins and leaves made me so happy! Also, I looove your shoes. I almost bought that exact pair before heading to France! Kinda sad I didn’t now!
Anyway, hope you had a wonderful Halloween!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Brittany! Those shoes will be PERFECT for walking around France! They’re SO comfortable. I bet you’re having so much fun studying abroad!!
xo xo Have a great trip to France!
xo
Malorie says
Will you share where you got your boots>
Taralynn McNitt says
steve madden! 🙂