Hello & Happy Friday!
Is it just me? Or do you feel like this week has been completely thrown off by Christmas? I’m excited about January and the New Year. I’m ready for a lot of things. I wrote a little note on Instagram with my goal for the New Year, and I look forward to all of the changes and vulnerabilities to come. I love writing posts and sharing all of my coffee photos and travel pictures, but there is more to my life and my story that I want to share and be open about with you. ♥
Last Friday, Kyle and I decided to pack up the pups and head down to Charleston for a couple of nights. We just wanted a new scenery and to spend some time together before Christmas.
I hope you are ready for photo overload!
We ended up renting a pet-friendly Airbnb with a backyard so we could bring the dogs. There are a lot of pet-friendly hotels in Charleston, but having a backyard, they could run around was so much better. As you can see, they loved it! It was in the best location, James Island. That’s the middle point between downtown and Folly Beach. It took us only ten minutes to drive downtown and ten minutes to drive to the beach! If I were to ever move to Charleston, this would be the area I’d want to live.
Our host had the house decorated for Christmas, and it really felt like home. If you sign up with my Airbnb link, you’ll get $40 in travel credit! If you want to read about our last Airbnb experience, you can find it here! We took a little trip to the smoky mountains and stayed in a cabin in the woods. We have about two more trips planned coming up, and I’m excited!
Once we walked the dogs and tired them out, we headed downtown to walk around, and grab a late lunch. We didn’t make any plans for the weekend. We just wanted to relax, explore, and go with the flow. It was really nice to just walk around and take photos, stroll with coffee, and enjoy the weather. I was really in my element. I was even happier that I got to spend that time with Kyle.
Waterfront Park ♥
Kyle and I are going back to Charleston in February, and we are finally going to try Husk! I always talk about going but never do. I always hear great things about it, so it’s officially on the list.
I love the character and charm surrounding the city. You’ll find random bicycles, scooters, and flowers everywhere. It almost looks staged because it’s so perfect 🙂
Don’t get me started on the trees. They are the prettiest and oldest trees you’ll ever see in a city.
Some of the streets in Charleston still have cobblestones from the 17th and 18th century.
This path is off of Waterfront Park that’ll take you to The Battery and White Point Garden. It’s such a gorgeous spot, and it looks like it’s out of a movie. It’s even more gorgeous in the spring when the trees are full.
King Street is a trendy street in Charleston, but one of my favorite roads to walk is Broad Street. It’s less populated, filled with character, and perfect if you like taking photos. When you’re in Charleston, you must go down every side street because you’ll find something magical hidden just about everywhere.
I could take photos of flowers, windows, and doors just about all day long.
Kyle and I were so hungry later in the afternoon. The only thing we had to eat was coffee, turkey jerky, and fruit snacks. Such a balanced diet!
The last time I was in Charleston, Meighan and I were training for our half marathon. We wanted a destination for our last run together before the half, so we chose Charleston. We came upon this restaurant called, “Eli’s Table.” It was unforgettable, and I fell in love with the spot. The food, the atmosphere, the service, everything was perfect! I wanted Kyle to experience it too, so we decided to have lunch there.
We both started with a bowl of chili. It reminded me of my dad’s recipe, which I still think is the best recipe in the world. I love a good traditional cup of chili. Speaking of, I think I’ll make some chili today!
I ordered the charred chicken & vegetables. It came with grilled chicken breast, chef’s seasonal vegetable medley, crispy red potatoes. AMAZING. AMAZING. AMAZING! EVERY BITE! When it came out, I planned on just eating half and saving the rest for later, but it stood no chance. It was unbelievable. How does one make chicken and vegetables so tasty? I was going to order the same meal as last time, but I’m glad I decided to change it up and try something new. After dinner/lunch, we headed out to explore and walk more. I could have walked around for 24 hours. I am just so obsessed with the city, and that’s why I always want to go back. I know there is so much more to the Carolinas, but Charleston has my heart. It’s perfect because Kyle feels the same way.
We headed back to feed and walk the dogs before making our way to the beach. This was Kyle’s second time in Charleston, but his first time seeing the Carolina shore.
The coat I am wearing is from H&M! I’m pretty obsessed with it, and my goal is to get the pink and blue one, too! I know I don’t need them, but they are just so warm and too darn cute. The boots are still my favorite 🙂
It wouldn’t be a proper visit to Folly Beach without stopping at my favorite coffee shop, Center Street Coffee! If you’ve read my other Folly Beach travel posts, you know how much I love this place.
I ordered an Americano, and we headed to the pier to watch the sun go down.
We were a little late, but it was still beautiful.
My happy place.
Kyle and I didn’t want the night to end just yet, so we decided to head to the Holiday Festival of Lights on Jame’s Island.
We drove through all the lights, and then parked the car to join the festivities!
I loved the lights hanging on the moss. So gorgeous!
You’re never too old to roast marshmallows!
I love when the marshmallows get super burnt 🙂 We had so much fun walking around, and it really put us in the Christmas spirit. We headed back around nine, popped some popcorn, and watched the movie Nightcrawler. The perfect night. We were up at sunrise with the dogs. We packed them up into the car and headed to Sullivan’s Island. This is one of my favorite beaches in Charleston. I took Grumples to this beach about three years ago, back when my parents were living in Charleston. I was so happy to bring him back! It was pretty chilly and foggy, but that didn’t stop us. The dogs were way too excited!
I loved how happy their little faces were.
Leo was excited that he could dig as many holes as he wanted without getting in trouble. He LOVES to dig…
These sandy boys had the best morning walk along the ocean!
After cleaning the boys, and getting ready, we headed back downtown to grab coffee, shop, and have a late brunch. I made a list of coffee shops and restaurants from your recommendations to try. I’ll make sure to cross them off every time I visit.
We walked into The Rise Coffee bar for an Americano. Kyle doesn’t drink coffee, CRAZY. I KNOW! But, he understands my love for it. Even though I love coffee, I only drink 1-2 cups a day. When I’m on vacation, I tend to drink more, but I try to keep my caffeine under 300mg a day. Too much coffee makes my anxiety levels high and stomach ache, so I make sure to monitor it.
The desserts looked so good, but we were saving room for brunch. I just want to say, the barista working was so sweet to us! I love walking into a coffee shop and feeling like you’re at home. I highly recommend this little coffee shop! 🙂
College of Charleston ♥
A couple of summers ago, Becca and I asked Kyle to take our photo. When we looked at it, we couldn’t stop laughing! It was half of our heads and mostly sky. It was hilarious. Now, Kyle has been trying so hard to play around with the camera, learn angles, focus on subjects, and get more creative. Now, he officially takes fantastic photos. A lot of the pictures on my blog posts are taken by him. I’m giving him the camera I use in these posts next year when I get a new one! I love seeing him take photos because he genuinely enjoys it now. It’s really cute because sometimes he’ll send me a photo and call it a “Taralynn picture.” He is the cutest. I love him so much!
Remember when I said he’ll eventually be better at blogging than me? Well….
It still looks like Fall in some parts of Charleston.
We were so ready for brunch, so we headed to Poogan’s Porch!
We were lucky because we were seated right outside on the porch. That’s the spot I was eyeballing!
We started with fried green tomatoes! It’s a MUST 🙂 It came with goat cheese and seasonal chutney. All of the of flavors paired so perfectly together.
I ordered the Ike’s Down Home Breakfast! Two over-medium eggs, bacon, grits, and cinnamon apples. The bacon was so crisp, the grits were FANTASTIC, and everything else was just as great.
We just walked around and explored after our late brunch.
My boots were only $20! They are a rust color with a gold metallic heel. You can find them here. My shirt is one of my favorites. I bought in two colors! It’s from Ann Taylor! 🙂 You can find it here! Plus, they are having 40% off storewide. I also just found out they make it in a dress too, and I bought it. You can never go wrong with a comfortable black dress that can be worn all year round at a casual or formal event. The bag I’m wearing is sold out, but here is a very similar one for only $19.99! I had a lot of people asking about it, but I’ll let you know if it’s ever back in stock!
Flowers all year round? I’ll take it.
We made it back to the Airbnb around 6 pm, we popped popcorn, watched another movie, and then headed to bed early! It was such a fun and relaxing little getaway! We headed back to Charlotte early morning on Sunday to get ready for our Christmas get together! 🙂 That post will be live Monday!
Have a great weekend everyone, and I’ll see you next year!!!!
Questions for you!
- What do you want to better next year?
- Have you ever stayed in an Airbnb?
- Where should I travel next?
Anonymous says
I love these pictures so much! My fiance and I are visiting Charleston for the first time in June and I am super excited! What are the top places, restaurants, areas, etc. you recommend?! We are also staying at an Airbnb, I wish I would’ve known about your discount code sooner!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you!
You’ll have so much fun in Charleston! I mean, everywhere you go is fun! Drive to the plantations, sullivans island, folly beach, isle of palms, explore the downtown, enjoy the night life downtown too! Husk, 82 queen, center street coffee, poogans porch, eli’s table (a must), toast, carmellas, and so much more!!
Anonymous says
I will be adding all of these to our list! Thanks so much for the suggestions!
Taralynn McNitt says
You’re welcome!!
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says
This was such a lovely post, Taralynn. You look so happy! ❤️
I’ve only stayed at an Airbnb once and it’s a great way to travel! 🙂
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you, Charmaine!
Kristin says
This trip looks amazing! I’ve never used Airbnb but have definitely browsed. I love that you picked a place that would be comfortable for your pups, I would definitely do the same! For your next travels I would recommend anywhere currently WARM!
Next year I want to focus on being more active, and getting better at finances and paying off debt. Also spending more quality time with my husband, pups, family and friends. It seems like the weeks fly by faster every year and I want to enjoy the day to day more.
I love your New Year note! I used to be a regular reader but fell out of blog reading for a while last summer when we were busy selling our old house and buying a new one. I don’t know what’s taken me so long to finally get back to keeping up with my favorite blogs but definitely glad to be back! I’ve always loved your blog and I’m looking forward to catching up on old posts and seeing what you have in store for 2018! 💜
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Kristin!
Hahaha I know what you mean. I’m thinking WARM right now, too!!!
Those are amazing goals! 🙂
Congrats on the buy/sell! That is fun but definitely stressful for sure!
I’m glad you’re back reading! :D:D:D
HAVE AN AMAZING NEW YEAR! XO
TARALYNN
Emily says
This was such an awesome post! I love Charleston too! So many beautiful pictures 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Emily!! 😀
Lisa Bachman says
My husband and I are going to Charleston on our honeymoon in April! Neither of us have ever been so if it’s half as pretty as it looks in these photos I know we will love it! Also, thanks for the restaurant tips! We’ve been trying to plan our activities while we are there 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
April is like the BEST time to go! The weather will be perfect!!!
Natalija says
Such a picturesque town! And so many colours! I was reading and looking in awe. Gorgeous photos and your instagram post sounded awesome-you really can and should post and share about much,much more. I’m sure we all will be looking forward to it. Happy New Year to you!
Taralynn McNitt says
It’s so perfect 😀
Thank you for reading! I hope you have a great New Year!
Maximiliane says
Something I really want to get better at is self discipline/working hard, time management, and practicing self-care! All of those things really do a number on my anxiety levels, so I’m eager to work on it and see how that improves.
I’ve never stayed at an Airbnb before, but I’m definitely open to trying! I love the pictures of this post, and am definitely experiencing the travel bug to go to Charleston!
If you haven’t gone already, New Mexico is great! Especially with its rich culture and artistic vibes. I know Santa Fe had so many unique spots and individuals there that are missing (for me) in the area I live in.
I’m really looking forward to your posts next year! Wishing you a wonderful New Years!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Maximiliane!
That is awesome and I could do better at that as well!
No matter how many times I visit, I ALWAYS have the bug to go back! I think you’d love Charleston.
New Mexico would be fun!!
Have a great New Year!
Shelby says
You’re right, your pictures are always so good! I’m looking into getting a camera soon, what kind do you have and would you recommend it?
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Shelby!
My camera is definitely a “beginners” one and I still love it! You don’t need a super fancy camera to capture gorgeous photos! Just focus on brightness/saturation/sharpness/and the highlights! 😀
Linda @ The fitty says
Please come to Canada next Tara! Also, do you have caffeine after a certain hour or do you have a cut off time?
Taralynn McNitt says
Hahaha that would be fun!
It really depends! During the week, I stick to one cup in the morning and MAYBE one in the afternoon (2-3ish) but when I’m out on the weekends or vacation, I have a cup in the evening. I don’t really have any rules, but I do try to limit my coffee. I’ve been limiting it more lately because I find that it helps me stay calm and have less anxiety when I drink less.
Jordan says
I want to eat better this upcoming year. Not just focusing on calorie counts, but making sure to consume healthy, nutrient dense food. More fruits and veggies, less junk!
I have never stayed at an Airbnb but the ones that you have visited have looked beautiful! (Your photos are always gorgeous and I’m sure Kyle’s will be great too with you as a teacher!)
If you have never been to Arizona, it’s definitely a must-do! We loved Sedona. The red rocks are breath taking, and obviously the Grand Canyon is something to see!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Jordan!
Those are great goals and I love that you won’t be focussing on calories, but more whole/ healthy foods!
HAHA, I’m nervous he’s going to take over my blog because of how good he’s getting 😉 lol
I DO LOVE ARIZONA, but need to visit Sedona for sure!!
Have a great New Year!
Taralynn
Linda says
Beautiful photos!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Linda!
Jessica says
I can’t believe how big Leo is!
Taralynn McNitt says
HUGE!!!
Kelsey Weissner says
Hi Taralynn!
I looooove this post! SC has stolen my heart over the last year, although I’ve never been to Charleston (yet!) I’ve spent most of my time in Pawley’s Island–where my boyfriend’s parents have a home–but it isn’t saturated with historic streets and homes like Charleston. I hope to visit there one day! The architecture and colors are so beautiful. I’ve stayed in 3 Airbnbs so far! 1 in Manhattan, 1 in Brooklyn NY, and an adorable casita in Arizona just outside of Sedona! Speaking of which.. I think that’s where you should travel to next! Sedona has some of the most beautiful scenery I’ve ever been immersed in in my life. There are tons of hiking trails you can do, plus a bunch of cute shops and restaurants peppered throughout the town. I linked my FB page in the website field and the cover picture of my profile is from hiking Cathedral Rock in Sedona just to give you an idea!
I hope you have an amazing NYE! Talk to you soon!
xo Kelsey
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Kelsey!
Oh, you must visit Charleston!!
I would love to visit Pawley’s Island! It sounds amazing! 😀
That’s 2 for Sedona! 😀 Might have to plan a trip!
Thanks for the idea 🙂
TALK TO YOU NEXT YEAR 😉
Laurel Hernandez says
Love this blog so much. Your travel blogs are some of my favorites!
Next year I want to be better at keeping a relaxing space at home (getting ready to declutter!!) I also want to be better at keeping up a fitness routine. I want to make 2018 my healthiest year!
You should visit Tennessee! (Nashville or Memphis). I know it is a little further for you, but I bet you’d love it. Im from Texas, so everything is far away (8 hours to get out of the state for me going north)
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you, Laurel!!
Decluttering is just the best! I’ve been getting rid of so much this past year and I look forward to carrying that out in the New Year!!
I’ve actually been to Nashville and Memphis and LOVE them!
I need to experience Texas more!
nicole @ bento momentos says
What a cute town! I’m at the Southwest and would love to see the SE side of the states. 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
You’d love them!
Siobhan says
I’m making chili this weekend! So comforting and tasty in this cold weather. I have a one pot turkey chili recipe I adore.
Your trip looked like it was so fun! I would love to be able to go on a little weekend getaway like that. Charleston looks beautiful. I’ve never used Airbnb before, but am very tempted to for the next time I travel.
I’m going to work on my self confidence in 2018. I need to embrace how awesome I am 🤗
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Siobhan!!
MMMM Chili is the best!!
The Airbnb experience is definitely fun!
I am going to work on the same! xo xo xo
Happy New Year!!
Thank you for always reading!
Vanessa says
What do you want to better next year?
I want to learn to pay attention to myself more. To recognise where my boundaries are, to give myself time to relax and recover and to say no when I need to.
Have you ever stayed in an Airbnb?
I have a few times and all my experiences were great! Lovely hosts and pretty places.
Where should I travel next?
I can’t tell anything about the US but if you ever need travel advice for the Netherlands, let me know 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Vanessa!!
Those are amazing goals and I should work on those too!
Kyle and I were just talking about visiting the Netherlands lol!
Shannen says
There are so many things I want to better myself in. One of them is saving money. I plan on saving every $5 bill that I am given.
I don’t think I’ve ever stayed at an Airbnb. Sadly I don’t travel enough for that (something else I want to work on next year!)
I’m assuming you was to stay within boarders. Southern California, Chicago, and NYC would make for some fun trips!
Taralynn McNitt says
Those are great goals.
Traveling is amazing, even if it’s 30 minutes away!
All fun spots!
Kyla Woelfle says
This is such an awesome post! I’m glad you love Charleston as much as I do! It is really a charming place. Now I’m homesick from your post! LOL!
* I want to manage my time better and become more organized in 2018.
* Never been to an Airbnb, but may have to give it a try!!
* Nashville is such a fun, exciting city!
Taralynn McNitt says
It’s the best place ever! 😀 How could you not love it?!
Oh, me too, girl! I’m good at organizing EVERYTHING, but my time is not one of them lol
YES LOVE NASHVILLE! I want to visit again soon!
xo
Jordan W says
I LOVE Charleston. It has to be one of my favorite places. When you go back you need to try the Charleston Grill located in the Charleston Place Hotel. It is pricey but truly a treat and experience. My aunt is the executive chef there !
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Jordan!
Mine too 😀 That is so cool! I am adding it to my list! Thank you for the rec!
xo
Amber O. says
Such beautiful pictures!! How do you store your photos normally? Do you ever get prints or have albums or anything like that?
For the new year I definitely want to be the best version of myself and focus on feeling better! Today I’m actually planning on reading some of your previous blog posts for fitness and eating motivation. I know every post contains that info but are there any previous ones you would recommend? Or any favorite posts from this past year? I’m so excited to see how your blog continues to grow and change 😊
Love your travels!! Have you ever been to Colorado? I bet you and Kyle would get some amazing photos here!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Amber!
Colorado is on our list! We talk about it all the time. I want to go in the summer AND in the winter!! 😀
I normally store all my photos in lightroom/and on my blog! I sometimes get prints, but not as much as I should!
Those are awesome! My favorite posts for fitness are the ones on the side bar! Some of my fitness challenges too!
xo xo xo
Katelynn says
My boyfriend and I went to Alaska this past July. We loved using Airbnb so that we could get the authentic “local” feel & as a plus it was generally cheaper than hotels.
I know its a bit far, but I highly recommend Alaska! We flew into Anchorage & then made our way down the Kenai Peninsula to Homer. We both fell in love with Homer! The views are to die for, the people are friendly, & there is so much to do. Plus in the summer you get 22 hours of daylight so you have plenty of time to explore. We’re already planning our next trip back!
Taralynn McNitt says
OMG! That sounds so exciting. I’d LOVE to visit Alaska!!
Yes, Airbnb is awesome for getting the authentic local experience! Especially if your hosts is involved.
I will be picking your brain soon if we plan on visiting Alaska! We have been talking about Alaska and Canada!
Desire says
I am going to email you! I want to visit Charleston but also have dogs that I can’t leave behind. I’d love to know which Airbnb you stayed in!
Taralynn McNitt says
I’ll look out for it! 😀 I don’t mind sending you the listing link!!
Chelsea @ Just Me Chelsea B. says
Your pictures are always so stunning!! I definitely want to visit that place! It just looks fabulous!!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you, Chelsea!
Wendy says
I have wanted to visit Charleston all of my life! Thank you for the virtual trip 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
I hope you visit soon! xo
Anonymous says
Why don’t you and Kyle just live together?
Taralynn McNitt says
It’s not a big priority right now!:)
He works too far from my house, we are so happy with the way things are right now, and there is no rush for anything! 🙂 Why change what is already great?
Violetta says
What are your New Years plans?
Taralynn McNitt says
We actually got a hotel in uptown for my parents and made reservations at a nice restaurant! It was our gift to them for Christmas! 😀
Olivia says
I can’t wait to read your Christmas post!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Oliva!
P. says
I like the Ann Taylor shirt! Please show us the dress when you get it!
Taralynn McNitt says
For sure!!
Emily says
OH EM GEE! Poogans porch is one of my favorite spots! My apartment is less than a minute away. I’m glad you tried the grits because they are my favorite.
Taralynn McNitt says
Awwww that is awesome and HOLY MOLY those grits were good! If you like grits, make sure to try the ones at 82 QUEEN!! If you haven’t already.
Raya says
I had no idea your parents lived in Charleston! My parents are living down there now.
Taralynn McNitt says
So cool! They only lived down there for about six months while they were searching for a home closer Rock Hill/Charlotte!!
Olivia says
This post looks like something out of a magazine! Can I print one of your images for my office?
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Olivia!
OF COURSE you can!
xo
Anonymous says
How long have you been dating kyle?
Taralynn McNitt says
Almost two years!
Sammie says
Your dogs are adorable! Are the both Goldendoodles?
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you! 😀 They are!!
Stacey says
I love the effort you put into your blogs and it really shows! I felt like I was walking the streets with you and sipping on coffee. Never stop blogging because it brings so much joy to my days.
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you, Stacey!
That is so sweet and definitely made my day!
Have a great New Year!
Amber says
Your photos are incredible!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you, Amber!
Staffa says
How far away is Charlotte from Charleston?
Taralynn McNitt says
About 3 hours! (with stops)
Brooklyn says
You should travel next to Vancouver, I think I know someone living there 😉
It’s funny you mention Kyle and his photography. Through out the post I kept thinking how I’ve always enjoyed your photos, but the ones in this post were next level. So good! So I’m not sure who took what, but the photography in this post is just incredible 🙂
http://www.justbeingbrooklyn.com
Taralynn McNitt says
I would LOVE that.
I have to be careful with him! He’s going to pass me up on blogging soon! haha
Kait says
Charleston looks like the prettiest place on earth.
Taralynn McNitt says
It’s up there for sure 😀
Sarah says
If you haven’t been to Columbia, SC yet it’s a great place for a quick trip from where you live! I went to USC and loved it! (not near as pretty as Charleston though 😉 )
Taralynn McNitt says
I’ve been to Columbia BRIEFLY, but I’d love to go back! Any recommendations there?
Sarah says
Three rivers greenway [like the riverwalk in rockhill], timmerman trail, and Congaree national park is right outside of Columbia. Main street is beautiful, they have a market Saturday mornings that is so much fun, and the state house is pretty, along with the USC campus which has some pretty buildings. Some good coffee shops are drip (two locations both have different atmosphere but both great), indah coffee, and curiosity. Some really nice restaurants 118 state street is one of my favorites but is small and can get crowded easily. There’s a good bit of stuff, I enjoyed living there!
Taralynn McNitt says
THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!!!!
Harriet says
Love this post!! Have a fantastic New Years!!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Harriet!
Have a great New Years!
Ciara says
I’m scheduling a solo trip to Charleston in February! (My first time!) And I’m for sure going to reference your blog when I’m looking for places to go! I can’t wait to explore =)
Taralynn McNitt says
Ohhhhh you’re going to love it, and Charleston is a great solo spot! 😀 I could explore all day long!
xo xo
Sarah says
We were in Charleston around the same time! You left right before it got cold! I don’t get to Charleston nearly enough, and all of your pictures are making me want to go again! I’ll be posting about my wine/food adventures in Charleston tomorrow. Take a look and let me know if you have gone to the restaurants that I post about 🙂 Happy New Year, Taralynn! Here’s to an even better 2018!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Sarah!
Ahhhh would have been cool to run into each other!:D
I’ll totally look out for your post! I love new ideas, especially since we are going back in a month!! xo
Rachel says
If you have never looked into visiting St. Augustine, FL you def should!! Oldest settlement in the US, right on the bay, you can tour the Castillo de San Marcos fort, St. George Street has great shopping, original cobblestone streets, Flagler college that is gorgeous (used to be Flagler hotel and is supposedly haunted). The lightner museum is fun too!
Harry’s Seafood is FANTASTIC!!!! And Pizza alley’s has the BEST pizza I have every had…all of North Florida knows it!
I live about an hour up the coast on the beach and we take day trips to St. Augustine all the time. Sounds like a trip right up your alley!
Taralynn McNitt says
I’ve actually been there! About five years ago!! 😀 It was amazing!!
Thank you for all the recommendations though, now you make me want to go back!
Susie @ Mile High Dreamers says
What a perfect trip together! I love Grumple’s and Leo’s little faces peeking over the car seat, too cute. Also, you and Kyle and just so stinkin’ cute together and it makes me so happy you’ve found someone who treats you like that! Every person deserves to feel loved :).
We LOVE AirBnb. It has honestly opened all of the travel doors for us because it’s made it so much more affordable. AND has given us some pretty unique (and laughable) experiences.
I think that you guys should go somewhere overseas together! If you love exploring the streets of Charleston, you’d be over the moon in Europe. Ben and I are hoping for South East Asia this year!
OR, Colorado kicks ass too 🙂
Happy New Year Taralynn! Can’t wait to see what 2018 brings!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Susie! 🙂
They love the peek their heads over the seat! I think they know how cute they are sometimes 🙂
& thank you so much! I feel so blessed to have Kyle in my life, and he makes me so happy! He’s truly the best!
We definitely want to plan a trip overseas, but we are thinking Netherlands or Norway! We’d also LOVE to go to Ireland 😀 South Asia would be awesome!!!
XO XO XO
Have a great New Year, Susie!
Alissa says
Beautiful photos, Taralynn (and Kyle!) My husband and I love Charleston so much we got married there – in White Point Gardens, on the battery.
Just wanted to say how much I appreciate your openness and authenticity. My husband I decided 2018 is the year of bringing our hearts out – it’s so easy to disconnect rather than be vulnerable and compassionate. Wishing you and your family a new year filled with love, peace and fulfillment <3
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Alissa!
& thank you for such kind words!! xo xo xo
Nikki says
Okay so I’ve been wanting to A) Go on a trip to Charleston and B) Use an AirBNB. This post has convinced me to do both! LOL! I have two pups as well, and I LOVE the idea of taking them on vacation with me! Such a great recap girl!
XOXO, Nikki
http://www.casualblonde.com
Taralynn McNitt says
You wont regret it!!! ::D:D
Diane says
Gorgeous photographs!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you, Diane!
Jennifer says
Oh how I want to visit Charleston so bad!! We stayed at an AirBnB in Sunset Beach when we went… it was perfect! I would definitely do it again.
You should come to Minneapolis next 😉
Taralynn McNitt says
I was there YEARS AGO!! But I’d only go back in the summer hahaha
Jennifer says
WISE CHOICE hahahaha I’d be more than happy to show you around!
Taralynn McNitt says
I’ll make sure to remember that! xo
Justine says
I just love Charleston ❤️ Looking at your photos makes me want to go back ASAP! Last time I went my husband and I stayed at an Airbnb as well but will look for a dog friendly one next time so we can bring our pups! Adding a couple of the restaurants you went to to our list! Have you ever gone to the Peninsula Grille? I recommend going to the bar for a cocktail and their amazing coconut cake!!! Also Amen Street has AMAZING shrimp and grits, my fave that I have had in the Carolinas 😊 and if you haven’t seen the USS Yorktown that is a fun place to spend a few hours!!! I love your blog and I’m looking forward to reading more about you this year. Happy New Year, Taralynn!!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Justine!
I will make sure to add that to my list of places to eat! : ) We are going back soon!
Thanks for all the recs!!! xo
Shelby Mayer says
We live in Charleston, and your post has made me want to go out and appreciate my own city more! I know someone has probably asked you this before, but what camera do you use? I’m wanting to get my hubby a nice camera for his birthday.
Jenna says
What kind of camera are you using currently?
Linda says
Charleston looks gorgeous! I wish it was closer and not halfway across the world 🙂 Your pictures are always pretty but this is awesome. My goals for this year is to put in an extra gear in school, eat more vegan (vegetarian now) and get more into sustainability, would love to buy some new clothing from ethical and sustainable brands or second hand. For traveling plans, I’d like to stay closer to home. I haven’t been to the island of Gotland for years and years. I want to visit the island with my fiancé, he’s never seen the it.
Katrine says
Hi Taralynn!
Could you possibly share the link to the Airbnb you stayed in? We’re going to Charleston in a couple of months with our 2 dogs and a place with a backyard would be so perfect!!
Thank you!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Katrine!
Shoot me an email! I’d rather not put the listing on my main page!
xo
Anonymous says
Hi Taralynn!
I sent you an email a couple of days ago, just wanted to make sure you got it! 🙂
Thank you!
Sophia Baker | The Diaper Bag Momma! says
Taralynn your photography is sensational! I never knew Charleston is so pretty and you have inspired me to take my little bubba on a weekend trip to Charleston in the near future!
Taralynn McNitt says
Wow! Thank you, Sophia!!!!