I wrote this blog recap Sunday night but had a tough time putting the rest of it together Monday morning. I didn’t feel as if it was fair for me to direct people to my blog so they could read about my happy week when there is just too much going on in the world. Our thoughts should be with the victims, and that is what I decided to do Monday. It’s not fair that I can sit here and blog about yummy salads and happy dog walks when so many innocent lives were lost in Las Vegas. My heart is breaking for the beautiful lives, now angels in heaven, that were taken. It’s breaking for the families that will never be able to see their loved ones again, for the families that still don’t know if their loved ones are even alive, to the injured that are still fighting, and to the witnesses that will never be able to unsee the graphic images of this massacre. It’s not fair. Beautiful people living their life to the fullest, now gone. Always hug your family. Tell people how much they mean to you. Spread kindness. Help whenever you can. My prayers and thoughts are with you.
This week has been an active one for sure. I’ve been spending a lot of time outdoors walking, playing tennis, and riding my bike. I’ve found that cutting back (now twice a week) on all of the HIIT workouts and replacing them with more outside time has been better for my mental health. I was going to the gym way too much, and it was taking a toll on my body. I think I’ve finally figured out the balance. Kyle reminded me that sometimes a “schedule” isn’t always the best for your body. Your muscles get used to the same routine, and it can be mentally exhausting after a while. Fitness is about doing things you love and finding a workout balance that is therapeutic, not stressful. Do what works best for you.
Monday morning smoothie: 1/2 banana, 1/2 cup frozen peaches, 1 tsp spirulina, 1tsp ginger, 1 tsp, turmeric, 1 tsp maca, 1 tsp camu, 1 tsp goji powder, 1 tsp wheatgrass, 1 scoop collagen peptides, 1 scoop vanilla protein powder, 1 tsp chia seeds, & 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk. (info on the superfoods that I use.)
I spent all of Monday trying to figure out some video issues for the vlogs. For lunch, I had strawberries, flaxseed yogurt, chia seeds, and oats on top.
After my long dog walks, I made a quick, healthy dinner. I sauteed my favorite, shishito peppers! I cooked up some kale and ground turkey in the cast iron with spicy Szechuan sauce too.
I’ve been crazy about hummus lately. I have been using it for dressings and dipping sauce. I ended up mixing this whole dish together. I was so tired on Tuesday night and fell asleep around 9:30, and sleep never felt so good.
On Tuesday morning, I headed out on a long dog walk and then made a shake to start the day.
Ingredients: 1/2 Cup Water, 1/2 Cup Unsweetened Coconut Milk, 1/2 Cup Frozen Blueberries, 1/4 Cup Frozen Raspberries, 1 Scoop Vanilla Protein Powder, 1 Tablespoon Ginger, 1 Tablespoon Acai Powder, 1 Tablespoon Turmeric, 1 Scoop Collagen Peptides.
I finished up on some morning work. I’m excited to eventually get my office done upstairs so I can work from the desk my dad built me. He built a giant farmhouse desk, and I’m obsessed.
Later in the afternoon, I had a company install a new storm door in the front. I’ve been craving the extra sunlight, and I thought it would be nice for the dogs so they can look out. When they were finished, I made a late lunch.
I cracked one egg and two egg whites into a frying pan. When the edges started to cook, I added ground turkey and kale on top and then cooked it up like an omelet. I love an omelet stuffed with veggies and extra protein.
I made a side salad to go with my eggs. It had a kale blend, strawberries, tomatoes, and a raspberry vinaigrette.
Later Tuesday evening, I headed to Target to get some sparkling water. I ended up with some pumpkins too. When I got home, I felt bad because I didn’t buy my pumpkins locally, so I’m heading to the patch this weekend.
I made a giant salad for dinner. I was so hungry, and salads are the best when you feel like you’re about to eat the entire house. I made some shishito peppers to go along with it. My salad had soft boiled eggs, onion, tomatoes, strawberries, romaine, and avocado. I drizzled the salad with balsamic vinaigrette.
When I was at Target on Tuesday night, I picked up some Pumpkin Puffins! I was so excited when I found these. I had a bowl for breakfast with toasted oats and coconut milk.
It’s finally starting to feel like Fall 🙂
Petaling back to what I mentioned before. Kyle said, “fitness is about doing what you want when you want to do it” Back when I was running almost every day, I had all my runs planned. Every mile was scheduled. I ran when I didn’t feel like it because it was “on my schedule.” Whenever I wasn’t feeling it but ran anyway, I stressed out my body. It took a mental toll on me. It started to make me actually hate or resent running. Running was something I loved doing, but only when I WANTED to run. On Wednesday morning, I felt the urge to get out there and run. I laced up, stretched, and headed out for three miles. After that run, I was reminded of why I used to run. It wasn’t for a half marathon; it was for my joy of it. Running should be enjoyable, NOT stressful. So when I want to run, I’ll run. When I don’t, I won’t. The same goes for HIIT workouts.
My neighborhood is so hilly, so it’s a total workout. The thirty-minutes is good enough for me!
After cleaning off, I headed to the kitchen to make lunch. My salad had romaine, strawberries, hard boiled egg, a slice of toast as croutons, tomatoes, avocado, and I used Fuji Apple dressing from Panera. I love that you can buy their dressings at the grocery store.
I had a splitting headache on Wednesday afternoon, but thank goodness it went away by the evening. I had plans with Meighan. I was so excited because I hadn’t seen her for literally weeks. We had some major catching up to do. We headed to Freedom Park and ended up walking for about two hours.
Such a gorgeous night.
We went to our favorite afterward. You can’t walk Freedom Park without ending it at Chopt for some jumbo salads.
My salad had kale, romaine, chicken, tomatoes, edamame, chickpeas, cucumber, butternut squash, avocado, and egg. The ingredients are mixed in because it looks like it is just a bowl of lettuce and a tomato on top. I promise it was filled with toppings in the middle.
Thursday morning breakfast smoothie: 1/2 banana, 1/2 cup frozen pineapple, 1 tsp spirulina, 1tsp ginger, 1 tsp, turmeric, 1 tsp maca, 1 tsp camu, 1 tsp goji powder, 1 tsp wheatgrass, 1 scoop collagen peptides, 1 scoop vanilla protein powder, 1 tsp chia seeds, & 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk.
It was my dad’s 60th birthday on Thursday, so I headed over there to hang out with him. Seriously, where does the time go? We spent some time in the backyard with the pups. They just love it over there.
Shishito peppers made an appearance. This was the last of the giant bag I bought a week ago at Whole Foods. I can’t wait to get more this weekend. I’m hooked, and Whole Foods is the only place that sells them around here. I am going to do a YouTube video to show you how I cook them. I had a lot of request for that.
My parents grilled a bunch of food for my dad’s birthday. I grilled up two Turkey Burgers for me, and I ate them with shishito peppers and peas. Delicious.
I made some late night coffee because I needed to finish some work and then write my National Coffee Day post! Have you guys entered the giveaway yet? Details here.
I had so much to get done before Kyle came over on Friday night. I headed out to walk the dogs, had coffee, oats, and then planted myself down until late afternoon. My face was glued to the computer. I power cleaned for about three hours Friday evening and then headed to the grocery store to grab some recipe ingredients for the weekend. I really wanted to make some soup for the weekend and a healthy zucchini bread.
The soup recipe is coming soon. It is a lot like my minestrone recipe, but a tad different. Ohhhhhhh & was it good! I prepared the soup on Friday night, so it wasn’t ready in time for dinner.
I threw together a salad and plopped on the couch to watch a movie with Kyle. My salad had chicken, bell peppers, avocado, tomatoes, romaine, hummus, and toast.
I saw these Perfectly Free bites at the grocery store when I was stalking the ice cream aisle. I had high hopes for them, but they literally tasted like chewy ice. If I were to freeze silly puddy, I’d imagine it would taste like these things.
After dinner and sampling those disappointing bites that I bought two flavors of, we headed out on a night dog walk. After the walk, I made a cup of coffee, and we watched The One I Love. Despite the coffee, I fell asleep mid-movie.
I went a little pumpkin crazy at Target on Tuesday.
This Fall blend turned out to be incredible. I normally don’t buy Starbucks coffee, but I’d buy this again. I just finished the bag this afternoon. A great way to start Saturday morning! I took a second cup to go while I was out walking the dogs. I made a homemade pumpkin spice coconut creamer (blogging the recipe soon.) I should go back to doing black coffee, but it’s hard this time of year. I’m just in full pumpkin spice mode.
Kyle and I were so excited to get out there and play tennis together after a week hiatus. We don’t see each other during the week, so we are in full tennis mode on the weekends.The weather was PERFECT! It was only 75 degrees!
We headed back later in the afternoon, and I headed straight to the kitchen to test a zucchini bread recipe.
I was so excited with how it turned out!! Guys, this is nut free, gluten free, dairy free, oil free, no added sugar, and incredibly tasty. I gave my dad a piece this morning, and he had no idea it was healthy. You can also make this recipe into muffins. The recipe will be live on Thursday.
Kyle made his fabulous crispy oven-baked wings for dinner. I really need to get this recipe up asap! I promise it’ll come soon. I just want to do it when we have time to make fun sauces. Maybe this weekend coming up!
And the itch continued. We headed to the courts for some more sets. Playing tennis at night was so much fun. Oh, and please excuse my hat hair. We talked about going to the movies, but coudlnt fight the urge to play more tennis.
We got back to the house around 9:45 PM and headed out for a dog walk. It’s crazy how much my dogs get me out walking! I add in six miles a day because of these boys.
I made a late night smoothie when I got back. It had collagen peptides, protein powder, maca, ginger, blueberries, acai, and coconut milk.
I showered and headed straight to bed!
Sunday morning was perfect. We watched a movie and just lounged around with the boys.
I love them so much. These are my favorite moments. It doesnt matter what we are doing, but I just love being around my boys.
It was time to get up off the couch around 10:30 and make a late breakfast. I added diced potatoes and butternut squash to a cast iron with a drizzle of olive oil. I cooked them until they were crispy and slightly brown.
I scrambled egg whites to go with the butternut squash and potatoes.
After breakfast, Kyle and I headed to the gym to workout. I ran a quick mile and then headed over to the weight room to lift for a bit. When I was finished, I stretched it out in the barre room. I think Kyle was ready to go…
When we got back, I made a quick shake, and we headed off to the mall to pick up a few new fall candles at B&BW! I was trying to take a photo of the leaves, but Kyle thought his foot should be in the pic too…
Salad for lunch: romaine, cucumber, bell peppers, avocado, chicken, celery, and hummus!
We met up with my parents to play a little doubles. We were dominating! I think it’s about time that Kyle and I join a fun little league. We have been killing it lately.
For dinner, I had my leftover lunch salad and a bowl of my crockpot soup. Kyle headed back uptown, and I stayed in so I could work on my recap post and catch up on a few other tasks. I was so exchuasted after an active weekend.
I hope you guys have a great week. & please continue to pray for the victoms, hug the ones you love, and do everything you can to smile at strangers. You never know who is internally struggling.
Questions for you
- Do you exersice based on your schedule, or based on the way you feel in the moment?
- Are the leaves changing where you live?
- Have you entered my coffee giveaway?
Jessie says
I poured my coffee just in time for this recap 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Enjoy! xo
Andi says
I have that same racket! I love it!
Taralynn McNitt says
Me too!
Carrie this fit chick says
OH I love all the pumpkin spice products you have! I’m sad those frozen chewy things weren’t great- they sound yummy! I also agree that salads are the BEST when you want to eat the entire world, hah. I pretty much exercise on a schedule, but if I’m feeling differently, I’ll listen to my body!
Taralynn McNitt says
They did look so good! But, literally ZERO flavor lol they should drown them in cocoa powder or something.
Always do what works for you! 😀 xo
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says
Seeing your photo of the butter squash roast makes me so hungry. I love fall and all the winter squashes. 🙂
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Taralynn McNitt says
Butternut squash is so good!
Teri says
You said it perfectly, Taralynn.
I enjoyed this post and all of the Fall touches. I look forward to seeing your office!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Teri!
Meredith says
I always look forward to your posts 🙂 your food always look so yummy!!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you, Meredith!
Amy says
Your house looks so cozy!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you, Amy! 😀
Nika says
Did you find any good scents at bath and body works?! I swear I was in there for an hour this weekend smelling all the new fall candles. I ended up bringing home a “winter” one too 😛
Taralynn McNitt says
lol They need to offer bags of coffee to clean your smelling palate! I bought the “LETS STAY HOME” 🙂 It’s vanilla pumpkin & marshmallow! I am going to wait until they are on sale for $2 for $24 before I buy more!
Mackenzie says
You have such a beautiful heart, Taralynn <3 Your sincerity and compassion always comes through during these horrible, crazy, tragic events that have been plaguing our country lately.
Also- loveee this recap! Have you tried shishito peppers stuffed with goat cheese and balsamic glaze?! Betchya'd love it. I cannot wait for that Zucchini bread recipe. Yuuuuhhhm!!! XO
Taralynn McNitt says
XO.
Dang you for going there. Now I have to try this genius idea.
jordan @ dancing for donuts says
your eats always look so incredible!!!! and i’m in love with using hummus as a dressing too – so much healthier than the pre-packaged stuff!! i haven’t done a fall foodie run yet, but i’m for sure going to target soon so i can go all out. your fall decor & baking has inspired me 🙂
also your desk is SO gorgeous!
Linda @ the Fitty says
You are so sensitive to a lot of us out there, but I want you to know that this is your blog and you have the right to post what you want whenever you want. You’re true supporters will be here to stay no matter what.
Dana says
Have to ask, what are you planning on doing with the stack of fabrics in the picture shown? Did I miss it somewhere??
Look forward to your creamer recipe! Hail hail to all things Pumpkin Spice!!
Taralynn McNitt says
Those are my food photography cloths 😀
Vanessa says
Do you exersice based on your schedule, or based on the way you feel in the moment?
I usually try to schedule for a few days ahead only. My schedule is pretty crazy this fall so I have to just work around it and use the time that I have. But I still try to schedule so I am actually motivated to get it off my to do list 🙂
Are the leaves changing where you live?
Yes and it is so beautiful! When I biked back home just now I had this great smell of fall leaves in my nose, it was crisp and the sun was going down. I love fall!
Sara @ Oats & Rows says
Trader Joe’s has shishito peppers too! 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
That’s what I heard! I need to make a Trader Joe’s trip asap.
Jessie @ The Acquired Sass says
1. I do a little bit of both honestly. When I’m training for a half marathon, or other type of race I have a training plan that I follow for runs, but I leave myself free to switch up which days I do the runs + leave my non-running days free for how I feel. Often times that’s lifting weights or biking, or an extra rest day, just depends what I’m in the mood for.
2. They’re starting to, and I love it. I took a walk through my neighborhood last night and made sure to step on all the crunchy leaves, which brought me lots of joy.
3. Hells yeah I did! And all my fingers crossed I win, ’cause coffee (and coffee mugs) are the best!
Do you exersice based on your schedule, or based on the way you feel in the moment?
Are the leaves changing where you live?
Have you entered my coffee giveaway?
Amanda|The Kitcheneer says
That pumpkin spice coffee sounds so good right now! And I usually go work out based on my work schedule. If i can hit the gym 5 days a week then I am going to. But weekends are reserved for “fun workouts” walking, riding bikes, and Netflixing (is that a word?) lol
Taralynn McNitt says
Good!! Sounds like you definitely have balance down and i’m always impressed with your workouts!!! AND YES NETFLIXING is a word!! lol (although, I’m not the best person to ask when it comes to real words)
Jenna says
I can’t wait for your soup recipe! Looks delish!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Jenna!
Kelli says
1. I have fitness classes that I stick to (for the most part anyway, the last week has been chaotic and I had to miss…) but other than that I really just try to get when I’m feeling motivated. However, this doesn’t really work for me. I need to get in shape and I have very little motivation sooooo I think a schedule would work better for me.
2. The leaves are starting to change here in Michigan’s U.P! This next week is supposed to peak for us and I’m so excited! The ski areas around us do chair lift rides up the mountains so you can see the panoramic view of beautiful foliage and the surround lakes.
3. I absolutely entered your coffee giveaway! Wouldn’t miss out on that opportunity 🙂
Mel says
Do you purposly spell wordes rong?
Taralynn McNitt says
purposely*
Natalie says
I’m pretty sure Mel knows how to spell and was just mocking you… Also, if you’re giving her corrections, you missed *words and *wrong …
Taralynn McNitt says
Mocking people is so sweet 🙂 Thank you for spreading kindness each and every day! xo
Emily L. says
I LOVE all the cloth options you have for when you take pictures of food! Where do you find yours? I am looking for a variety of some when I shoot for my site or youtube. I can’t wait to see your recipe for the zucchini bread!
Taralynn McNitt says
I just try to pick them up from different discount stores, Amazon, world market and target! Oh, and Joanne fabrics !
Bethany @LuluRuns says
The leaves are just changing over here and I am so excited! I love the fall colors! I go back and forth between scheduled and intuitive with exercise. Right now, I am following a post-marathon training plan and then adding in strength training (without a structured plan.) Have you ever done Cassie Ho’s pilates workouts on YouTube? They are a great way to change it up and super fun!
glorym says
Those are the cutest cloths! If you don’t mind me asking, where do you usually go to buy them? I also really loved the place mats you made a while back, but I don’t think you’re selling them anymore (they were double-sided, one side was like an Aztec print and the other was gray/white if I’m remembering correctly). If you remember where you got those patterns from, I would really appreciate it! xo
Taralynn McNitt says
I pick them up from all over!:) I find that discount stores sell them super cheap!! Also, Joanne fabrics has great scrap cloth!
Eileen says
If you like hummus you HAVE to try Sabra Taco Inspired Hummus. GAME CHANGER! So good with bell peppers
Taralynn McNitt says
Oh, girl. Tried it. LOVED IT!!!
Lyric Madden says
I know you love the shishito peppers like I do. Local Dish on Main Street in Fort Mill just switched to their fall menu this week, and they have a seared scallop dish with fried shishito peppers, among other delicious things on it. I had it for dinner tonight, and it was sooooo good! Definitely worth trying! This is my first time commenting on your blog, and I just have to fangirl for a minute. I have been following since you lived in Iowa. I live in Fort Mill, and have gone to so many of the places on the Charlotte List! You definitely know what you are talking about. All of them are great!
Taralynn McNitt says
That sounds AMAZING!!!!
I will have to try it out. I’ve been wanting to go there for so long! I always go to HOBOS next door 😀
& please always share your recommendations for the area! xo xo xo
Mindy says
Where did you get your Home Sweet Home doormat? I’ve been looking for one like that everywhere!
Taralynn McNitt says
I bought that one at Hobby Lobby but ended up getting this one too! It’s the same but bigger from Target and I liked it better! it’s on sale too! Home Sweet Home Rug!
Jordan says
I usually exercise based on how I feel but I also have an idea of what I want to do. Lately, I have been scheduling runs and workouts because I have been training for my next half-marathon. I completely agree with you when you say running should be for the joy of it. I am reminded of that every time that I am training for a long distance run — I lose the passion for running and it feels more like a chore. I just can’t stop myself from signing up for all the races!
The leaves are just starting to turn here in Wisconsin — the weather has been quite strange recently and feels more like summer than fall, but that’s supposed to start changing this week.
I love all of your coffee pictures and of course I entered your awesome giveaway!!
Thanks for sharing your week with us!
Tanya says
I’m having a hard time with workouts. I workout 6 days a week some days (alot of days) twice a day. I need to back off I know but I feel like I’m obsessed with it. Grrrr to find balance is so hard.
In WI colors aren’t as bright as usual. Thus is one of my favorite times of the year. So pretty. But kinda blah this year.
Taralynn McNitt says
I found myself getting obsessed with it too and that is why I had to cut back. It DOES become an addition. We get addicted to the high feeling after a workout. If you’re exercising twice a day, it’s time to recognize that there may be some an issue forming. You know yourself better than I do, but be kind to your body. Working out is healthy, but working out too much can be unhealthier than not working out at all. Instead of going hard at the gym, just take your workouts outside and walk. Listen to music and just walk! It’s a workout, but much easier on the body. It allows you to relax the mind and just be! I walk all the time and I think it’s been the best for mental health.
Tanya says
Thanks. I have really thought about and and have decided only once a day. That is a big adjustment for me. But I knew it was mentally not good.
Kelsey says
I’d love to hear more about your lifting (how often you lift, the exercises you do)!
Also thanks for always posting your recipes. They’re so quick, easy and healthy! Your spirulina protein shake has become a staple in my morning routine. Now you’ve inspired me to head to the store to buy pumpkin spice coffee creamer and shishito peppers!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Kelsey!
I try to lift twice/3 times a week (as of now.) I was lifting/Hiit workouts almost five days a week and that wasn’t too healthy for the mind and body. I like my Monday class workouts/Wednesday/and Saturday! But I try not to stick to a schedule and just go with the flow. Lately, I’ve been replacing gym time with long hours on the tennis court. I also have two giant dogs that keep me SO SO SO ACTIVE! I walk at least six miles a day with them.
You won’t regret that purchase! Just don’t mix the two! haha
Have a great week!
Shelby Boyce says
Hi Taralynn! I really like that you mentioned doing things for your mental health too, it’s not talked about much and you did it so well. I have a quick question! I’m a junior in college, I work full time, and I work out at least twice a week at a kickboxing class. Everything is fine but I’m starting to get stuck in kind of a rut. Do you have any tips for how you get yourself out of a rut every once in a while?
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Shelby!
Mental health is just as important as your physical health. They go hand in hand.
Working out twice a week is fine! I think the best way to get out of a rut is to change things up or take a break. Maybe take a week off and replace those kickbox classes with either a hike or yoga. Muscle memory is real and if you continue to do the same thing all the time, you’ll definitely get bored and your body will make less changes because it has already adapted. Just change it up for a bit! 😀
Kate says
What black leggings are you wearing?
Taralynn McNitt says
In the tennis picture? They are just Nike Running Capris!
Annie says
Your house is so cute! Where did you get that rug?
Taralynn McNitt says
It’s from Hobby Lobby! But I ended up buying this one last night! It says “home sweet home” but it’s a bit bigger! http://shopstyle.it/l/jo9Z
Sara says
That is excactly how I feel about running too. I am just burned out and it’s a mental battle.
Taralynn McNitt says
Just have to change this up!:)
Anonymous says
I love tennis too!
Taralynn McNitt says
It’s the best!!
Sophie says
I love your shoes in the picture with the leaves! What are they?
Taralynn McNitt says
Adidas!! But I don’t think they sell them anymore!!:(
Maximiliane says
The leaves started changing early here in MD, which I love, but fall weather just arrived last week! Fall is the best season ever, in my opinion. I mean who can say no to pumpkin bread, hot apple cider, and cozy blankets? I used to follow an exercise schedule, but it wasn’t working for me. I got demotivated and eventually stopped working out. Now I’m just setting a goal for myself to be active for at least an hour a day and I just choose whatever I’m feeling that day to do it. However I have noticed that doing yoga on a daily basis really does help with a healthy mind. I love what you said about being outside more being helpful for your state of mind. I can relate to that! It’s very grounding to spend time outside, and has so many health benefits!
Btw I saw that Starbucks coffee blend at Home Goods and almost bought it, but was thrown off by the “hearty” in the description, and opted for Starbucks Caramel Coffee instead. Have you ever had that one? If so, is it good? (Haven’t opened it yet) All the best to you!
P.S. Also, I loved seeing your vlog-style blog post! It’s nice to see how your usual blog posts come to life that way!
Joanne says
I dont know why but Kyle’s foot made me laugh! Reminds me of the poop bag incident on your youtube
Taralynn McNitt says
hahaha! He’s always trying to get in the way of my photos!!
Dana says
Love that rug!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Dana!
Charity says
Loved the blog post! I’m so ready for the leaves to start changing colors here in Arkansas! Do you ever watch the cute (and kind of cheesy) fall movies on the Hallmark channel? I know some people aren’t in to that sort of thing but I have been loving them so far. They make even more ready sweater weather! <3
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Charity!
I totally watch the Christmas ones! Usually on a Sunday afternoon 😀
Katie says
Looks like you had a great week! I think it’s interesting that you mentioned you don’t see Kyle much during the week. Do you ever miss each other or are you ever worried about what the other person is doing? My boyfriend and I live together and I still get worried about what he is doing.
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Katie!
Yes, it was a wonderful week!
Kyle and I ALWAYS miss each other! I literally miss him the second he leaves. We always text each other and call each other. I NEVER for a second EVER worry about what he is doing. If I did, or he gave me a reason to, I wouldn’t be with that person. That is so unhealthy. Relationships should be built on trust, and if you love a person, you trust that person. Kyle and I are great communicators and both pretty much obsessed with each other (in a non-clingy way.) We love our time together, but we love our time apart as well. You have to know how to “BE” without that person as well. We are always more excited to see each other on the weekends too. Also, if I want to see him during the week, I just head that way. It’s not like a “rule” that we can’t see each other, we just have a hard time finding the time. Kyle and I have one of the strongest relationships and I’d never question him for a second. We’ve been together for a year and a half and have never argued about anything. We have differences sometimes, but we discuss it. He is so kind, so sweet, and honest. If you have reason to not trust your boyfriend, you need to dig deep and try to figure out why that is. Is that because he did something to make you feel that way, or is that from your own insecurities? or past experience? It’s not healthy to be thinking like that, so maybe try to solve what it is that has you feeling that way. Hope you find some answers soon!
Mallory says
Great response, Tara!
Sophie says
I love your blue shoes that you are wearing in the picture with the flowers. Where are they from?
Taralynn McNitt says
They are Adidas! But I don’t think they sell them anymore! 🙁
Elisabeth says
Hi!
What happened in Vegas truly broke my heart. One of my friends lives there and he loves country : but he didn’t go to the concert, and he’s safe.
Let’s go back to something happier : this salad with straberries and avocados looks delicious! I’ll probably keep it in mind for next spring (strawberries are hard to find in my supermarket)
Do you exersice based on your schedule, or based on the way you feel in the moment?
I’m planning to run races so a schedule will be necessary (you can’t run a half marathon without some serious preparation!). I need to focus on strengthening my body for the next two months before starting my training plan. I’ll try to follow my feelings and choose fun but effective workouts! Fun helps going through hard sessions!
Are the leaves changing where you live?
Yep! Next week, I’ll be switching my clothes for the fall/winter months : time to wear thights, skirts and boots!
Taralynn McNitt says
So glad to hear that. So devastating.
The good thing about living here is that you can find most produce in the stores all year round, but it gets tough in December.
Yes, you’ll definitely need preparation for sure. Glad you’re keeping YOU first. Just keep listening to your body and do what feels right.
YAY FALL CLOTHES!
Cate says
Your coffee photos make me so happy!
Taralynn McNitt says
And coffee makes me happy 😀
Mary says
I didn’t realize you and Kyle only see each other on weekends. That must be hard, to be separated all week!
Taralynn McNitt says
I mean, sometimes I go up there during the work week, but we both stay pretty busy during the week and it’s easier for us to hang out on the weekends. I think it’s good for relationships to not be around each other all the time. lol
Julie says
I have a couple of questions about your super foods info: (1) The link for where to buy Maqui doesn’t seem to be working, and (2) do you think the Spirulina has a strong taste after you mix it with other flavors? Some of the reviews said it was too strong to choke down. Thank you!
Taralynn McNitt says
It does have a strong taste if you don’t mix it with other ingredients! You don’t want to have it alone!
Marcella says
I ran cross-country all high school and 3 years of college then quit my senior year because I was so burned out. It’s been about 3 years and I’m training for a half marathon (aka, actually trying this time lol) and it feels great! The biggest difference is that the training group I run with schedules 3 rest days during the week which makes SUCH a big difference. I definitely feel more rested but I’m in pretty decent shape now compared to my college years! I’m hoping to run 1:45 but we’ll see how that goes 🙂 Running is definitely way better when you don’t run every single day and get burned out.
Taralynn McNitt says
Yes! The burnout factor is real. Congrats on training!! Running with a group is great motivation.
Danielle says
I had the “eat more whole foods” coffee mug too! I loved it so much, but one day after washing it I was simply drying it with a paper towel and the handle literally broke off in my hand. I was so sad! Enjoy yours! 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Awwwwww 🙁 That’s a bummer!!!! I always drink from that mug when I’m out at my parents!
Pearlie says
All of your posts make me happy after reading! Thank you for being so real and normal. I’m tired of all of these “fake-staged” bloggers hopping around the internet lately. I always share your blog with my friends and family.
Taralynn McNitt says
Haha well thank you! Glad I can make you happy after reading!!
Valerie says
I have a question for you! Have you noticed a difference on how you feel or anything health wise with all the powders and stuff you’ve been adding into your smoothies?? They all sound so interesting.
Taralynn McNitt says
My face has been extremely clear!!!!!& my usual late night stomach aches have gone away. I’m not saying the powders have done it, but it feels better. I do know that the spirulina has helped a lot with my iron deficiency.
Pat says
Is it weird that I love seeing what you name your blogs? lol
Taralynn McNitt says
Lol I actually appreciate that. It takes me a bit to decide what to title them!
Sharen says
I get migraines when I’m dehydrated!
Taralynn McNitt says
Me too!
Afton says
Are you still friends with Becca?
Taralynn McNitt says
Of course!!
Chelsea says
Love your recaps, Taralynn! 🙂 I almost bought that pumpkin spice oatmeal the other day – does it really taste of pumpkin?!
Taralynn McNitt says
It’s good! Not worth the purchase! Just add pumpkin spice, honey, and a tad of pumpkin puree to your oatmeal! It’ll be way better!
Lindsey says
I am so obsessed with fall candles right now! I saw the one you posted on your IG story. Does it smell good?
Taralynn McNitt says
OH MY AMAZING!!
Amy says
Love this post! I am loving the colder mornings too!
Taralynn McNitt says
Such a wonderful thing to wake up to! I look forward to it!
Anonymous says
I can’t wait for your zucchini recipe!
Taralynn McNitt says
It’s actually up now!!:D
Morgan says
I tend to fall victom to my exersice schedule. All of the petaling is so exchausting. Can you help me stay balanced?
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Morgan!
I think falling out of a schedule is hard (mentally.) If the schedule WORKS for you, then that is fine, but if you find yourself stressed out or exhausted because of it…then it’s time for a change!
I don’t know your schedule now, but maybe exchange half of your workouts with something like walking, yoga, or hiking. Find something YOU LOVE!
Harriet says
Great recap!! I normally work out on the way I feel, while I am currently marathon training I am sticking to a schedule but took today off work and training to pick up the new car, get my hair done and go to the natural hot pools! Just needed a me day. It’s spring here in New Zealand so there is stunning flowers everywhere 🌺🌸 and my garden has gone crazy. I am going grocery shopping tomorrow just so I can make the zucchini bread. Have a fantastic weekend!!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you, Harriet!!
A “me day” is ALWAYS necessary.
Ahhh I bet it’s SO GORGEOUS!! I’d love to be there right now.
Let me know what you think of the bread!
Have a great weekend.
Amber O. says
Taralynn, I love your blog! I always look forward to reading new posts. Right now I’m doing the Whole30 and just started working out. It is so hard to find a balance between making work outs a priority but not obsessing over them. I like your idea about switching things up!
I totally entered the coffee giveaway (I’ve never done anything like that!) through Pinterest and I hope I did it right. Coffee is seriously so amazing. I’m getting my life together and it has been my saving grace! Haha I hope you get to travel and taste so much coffee!
Taralynn McNitt says
I know it’s hard, but it’s so important for health!:)
Switching things up help! Coffee will always be the saving grace!!! 😀