It’s been a day. I should have had my post up this morning, and I should have eaten a great meal tonight, but instead, I had a bowl of coconut milk ice cream with peanut butter and mini chocolate chips on top. Ok, fine. I crumbled some cookie dough in the bowl too.
The craziness started this morning. I’ve officially made it one week with having only one cup of the coffee day, and I feel better than ever. However, I do wake up a bit earlier because I’m just so excited about my cup of coffee. 🙂 I thought I’d be able to get my blog post written since I set up all the photos last night, but I ended up having more pictures and more content than I thought. By the time 8 am rolled around, I had to quit blogging, take the dogs out on their walk(s), and it was FREEZING. Walking the dogs in uptown Charlotte in 10 degrees is AWFUL. This is why people have backyards! Next time, I’m going to be an awful girlfriend (proudly) and wake up Kyle to do it. After feeding the dogs I packed them into the car, grabbed my stuff, and drove back to my place (Kyle and I live in two completely different states), so I could get ready before heading to my doctor’s appointment.
My appointment was for my thyroid health and episodes of panic attacks. I’ll have more on that later as I’d love to talk more about those topics on my blog this year. I had to get blood drawn before heading out, but I knew this wasn’t going to be pretty. I was in such a rush that I hadn’t had anything to eat other than coffee, and I just don’t do needles. As soon as I sat down, she started to “do her thing,” and that was it. I was gone. I passed out, and all I remember was the phlebotomist telling me to cough as hard as I could, to eat some crackers, and something about apple juice. Unfortunately, I was too dehydrated to give blood, so I was ordered to eat a ton of good food today, lots of sugars, carbs, and water! I’ll be heading back to get blood work on a full stomach, hydrated, and no coffee! I’m the type of person that gets dizzy and plugs my ears when people talk about anything medical. It was a struggle to get through anatomy in high school…
After I left, I headed to the grocery store to pick up a prescription, some proteins, and fresh vegetables for the house. I got home around noon, walked the dogs again, and then sat down with lunch! My lunch had baby arugula, roasted pumpkin seeds, apple chips, pecans, guacamole, and Whole Food’s chicken salad tossed in a vinegar & oil dressing.
I planned on going to yoga tonight, but my dogs had other plans for me. Grumples made me walk him an hour in the cold before he “did his business,” and Leo ate a stuffed toy, so that was fun on the bathroom side if you know what I mean…
I decided just to grab the ice cream, make some hot tea for a chaser, burn a calming candle, and get this recap post going! I’m ready for a better day tomorrow.
I think one of the best parts of the day was buying this soy Burts Bees candle. Maybe I’ve been living under a rock, but I had no idea these existed. This candle smells incredible! It has a mood-calming scent, and I went online and purchased two more! I also bought the wax melts. I am obsessed! If you’ve tried any of the other scents and enjoyed them, let me know. 🙂
Since my last recap post happened, I’ve been to Charleston, had a Christmas get-together, and celebrated New Years! You know what that means? A LONG RECAP, so let’s go!
Kyle and I left Charleston early Sunday morning. We wanted to get back so I could pick up some food and get ready for Christmas Eve. For breakfast, I had an Americano, a Nothing But bar (so good), and a green smoothie. I don’t even know what was in it, but it was good.
We made it back around ten am! I hurried and showered, and then headed out to pick up some food. Becca and I planned on roasting chicken, steaming crab legs, and making a sit-down dinner, but we realized grabbing a ton of finger food, pizza, and wings would be so much better. I’m so glad we decided on this.
I picked up a case of Beers Around the World for Becca’s boyfriend and our friend, Steve at The World Market. While I was there, I saw these adorable gold stemless wine glasses, and I couldn’t resist. They were only $5 a glass! I love gold, and it’s perfect for any occasion.
We were blessed with perfect weather on Christmas Eve. It was about 55 degrees outside, so we enjoyed wine on the patio for a bit.
We played Cards Against Humanity last year, so I was so excited to play What Do You MEME? this year! The game was SO FUN!!! Definitely had us cracking up the whole time.
But then the night took a turn for the funnier. We started playing Heads Up! It’s an App on your phone that has you act out, or play the guessing game with your team. One of your teammates holds the phone against their foreheads, and they have to guess what’s on the “card.” It is seriously one of the most fun games! You can play it anywhere since it’s on your phone. I ended up running upstairs and changing so I could be more comfortable because this game had you all over the place.
My third Christmas with you! 🙂 It was really fun having Becca’s boyfriend over for Christmas this year too! He is a blast, and they are honestly so perfect for each other.
My second Christmas with you! 🙂
We were in bed by midnight and fell asleep to our favorite bedtime show, Sharktank. Mainly because it’s ALWAYS on. I was up bright and early, per usual! I walked the dogs, and then started making my homemade cinnamon rolls. I took some new photos and will be making a printer friendly version soon 🙂
We had so much fun opening gifts! I didn’t take pictures of them all, but I’ll share some fun ones! I’ve wanted to share what I got some of my friends and family, but I didn’t want to post them on the blog for them to see! My brother and Karlee are obsessed with cats, so I got them a cat-themed gift and a Nespresso machine! The cat mug is from Anthropologie. They have the cutest cat mugs! I bought their cats the Titan Tower on Amazon,and they loved it! I kept replaying my brother’s snaps of their cats playing with it. Best $13 purchase I’ve ever made on a cat!
Kyle and I decided to just do one small gift for each other. I didn’t get creative but decided to get him something I knew he’d LOVE. I’ll save the creativity for Valentines Day. A couple of months ago, I bought Kyle a Frye bag because it’s one of his favorite stores and they have great stuff that lasts forever. I decided to get him a matching wallet.
I am in love with my gift that he got me. When we were in New Jersey back in October, I kept talking about how obsessed I was with the hotel robe and that I wanted one. That was the last time I mentioned it. Well, apparently Kyle took note because he bought me the softest robe! I love it so much. I had never heard of Parachute Home, but now I want everything from there site.
My brother sent me these cups! Have you guys ever heard of them? THEY ARE SO COOL! The edges of the cups are strongly scented and it tricks your brain into thinking you’re drinking flavored water. If you’re a soda drinker, the cola one is awesome! You just add sparkling water to trick your brain into thinking you’re drinking cola.
How adorable is this cutting board from Kyle’s mom!? I don’t even want to use it! It’s too perfect.
Becca knitted me this, and it’s so soft! I think it looks perfect with my chair 🙂
I put a gift box of different little things together for Kyle’s mom. One of my favorite gifts was the butterfly painting I did. She LOVES monarchs!
I’ll do my ornament post soon too! I bought the cute little floral mugs at Anthropologie. I am so in love with their mugs!
My favorite part about Christmas is watching Grumples open up presents. It’s INSANE! He doesn’t touch them under the tree at all until I tell him to go get a gift. (video here)
Later in the afternoon, we headed to the dog park to let the boys run around and play!
We decided to go see a movie on Christmas day. We had wanted to go see The Shape of Water for a really long time, so I was super excited.
The movie was amazing. It makes you happy, sad, confused, and it’s a gorgeous film. I highly recommend seeing it.
Breakfast Tuesday! I had a shake with frozen banana, ice, coconut milk, and Orgain vanilla protein powder, and frozen pineapple. On my new cutting board 🙂
Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve ALWAYS helped my mom take down the decorations the day after Christmas. I know Christmas isn’t over until the 6th, but I don’t like to carry it over into the new year. It just felt good to have my space back.
For dinner, I decided to make some fun sandwiches and smashed garlic potatoes.
**I marinated chicken breast in Greek dressing for about two hours.
**Mixed one tablespoon of lemon juice, 1/2 cup cream cheese, one tablespoon garlic powder, one teaspoon of dillweed together for the cream mixture.
**I baked the chicken at 350 degrees for about 23 minutes.
**The potatoes were boiled until fork tender, smashed, and seasoned with black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and garlic salt. Baked for 30 minutes at 250 degrees!
I usually use ciabatta bread for these, but the grocery store was out. I did honey wheat instead! Toast the bread in the oven for about three minutes on the rack. Spread the cream cheese mixture on one side of the bread, top with bell peppers, onions, avocado, bacon, and chicken!
Kyle LOVED them! They are actually my mom and dad’s favorite sandwiches that I make, so I brought some over to them on Wednesday.
Grumples wanted them too apparently…
I spent all Wednesday working on my Charleston blog and catching up on emails!
I went out to breakfast with my parents on Thursday morning so we could catch up. I wanted to hear all about their Christmas in Iowa.
We went over to the Famous Toastery. I ordered two eggs over medium, fruit, and multi-grain bread.
This is where I spent the rest of the day working! My mug is filled with almond milk, cinnamon, frozen banana, and Orgain vanilla protein powder. Leo really wanted my peanut butter toast…
Yay! I love Fridays 🙂 I finished up some laundry, headed to the gym to walk the treadmill, and then came back to work.
Kyle came over on Friday night, and I made an easy, healthy and filling dinner. I cooked up ground turkey and ground chicken, drained it, and then added organic garlic lovers pasta sauce. I roasted bell peppers, brussels sprouts, broccoli, and zucchini. It’s been a while since I’ve had spaghetti squash, so I baked a giant one up! Leftover spaghetti squash is the best.
This is a meal that would be super easy to meal prep.
I ate this all weekend long because it was so good, and I also picked up more ingredients to make again this week.
Hello, beggars.
We started watching Babel before I fell asleep on the couch, but I finished it in the morning, and it was a pretty good movie. Brad Pitt looks better with age (even though that movie is like 12 years old.)
Another early morning dog walk! It wasn’t as bone-chilling last Saturday, so I took the boys on the full two-mile walk before the sun came up.
I decided to spend the day power cleaning and organizing before the New Year! I spent almost two hours in my bathroom. I scrubbed every single inch, washed all the bathroom rugs, cleaned out the drawers, put my makeup organizer in the dishwasher, and I even made my way to the ceilings to dust. There wasn’t a germ left in that bathroom!
This is my makeup organizer that I am absolutely in love with. It’s cool because you can put the drawers in the dishwasher to get all the makeup and smudges cleaned off. It holds a lot!
Leftovers for dinner!
I ended the night with lemon ginger tea, lemon, and honey! (video here)
I’ve been drinking a lot of tea to replace afternoon/evening coffee. I haven’t had any trouble giving it up!
Stash Tea, acacia honey, and my teapot!
I really felt like going to the gym on Sunday afternoon, so I made sure to get a good breakfast in a couple of hours prior. I had an omelet (1 egg yolk + 3 egg whites), pineapple (half ate), and a Van’s waffle with honey.
I like to write out a workout before actually going to the gym. Otherwise, I get overwhelmed and feel like a lost puppy. On the weekends, the classrooms are empty, so I go into one of the rooms and workout. This is a workout you can also do at home in your living room! 🙂
I made a workout for “easing” my way back into shape. If you want to make it harder, just add weights or more reps! I really felt the burn the next day. I wrote up another workout to do in the living room tomorrow morning (because it’s so dang cold outside.) I’ll be posting it on my Instagram story!
After we got back from the gym, I made a quick protein shake before getting ready for the night.
Unsweetened matcha tea, almond milk, ice, frozen banana, and Orgain vanilla protein powder.
We headed uptown for a night out with my parents. For Christmas, we decided to get them a hotel at the Kimpton in Uptown Charlotte, and then take them to dinner at the McNinch house.
They’ve only been uptown a couple of times, so I was excited to show them a good time. I also knew they’d love having dinner at the McNinch house because it’s definitely and an experience you’ll never forget.
It was SO COLD OUTSIDE! I saw some girls in uptown with tank top dresses with no tights. HOW? I was nearly freezing in a coat, gloves, a hat, and tights!
Here is the link for my coat! I had many of you guys asking about it on Instagram 🙂
I’ve always wanted to see the McNinch house at Christmas! We always go in the summer, so it was fun to see their decorations inside.
-Amuse-
Savory Celeriac Meringue Cracker, Meyer Lemon and Cranberry Jam
-Wine Pairing-
Veuve de Vernay Brut, Loire, France NV
-First Course-
Oysters on the Half Shell
Blood Orange Caviar, Panko & Parmesan Crust
-Wine Pairing-
Semper Sonoma Coast Chardonnay, Ex Orlis Terrarum-2012
-Second Course-
Brown Sugar Caramelized Pear Salad
Gorgonzola, Arugula, Dandelion Shoots, Daikon Radish, Champagne Vinaigrette.
-Wine Pairing-
Carrillon Rosso Di Montalcino, Montalcino, Italy-2014
-Third Course-
Butter Poached Lobster Tail
Mushroom Tart, Lobster Beurre Blanc
-Wine Pairing-
Angela Estate Pino Noir, Yamhill-Carlton, Oregan-2013
-Intermezzo-
House Made Bourbon and Vanilla Sorbet
-Fourth Course-
Shaved Broccoli, Ginger & Nutmeg Carrots, Peppercorn Bordelaise
-Wine Pairing-
Mount Veeder Cabernet, Napa Valley-2014
-Fifth Course-
White Chocolate & Passion Fruit Cake
Golden Chiffon Sponge, White Chocolate Mousse, Passion Fruit Gelee
-Wine Pairing-
Elyse Petite Sirah, York Creek, Napa Valley-2012
And a hot cup of tea <3
Executive Chef Matthew Shepard
Sous Chef Corey Thomas
Wine Steward Anthony M. Wesley
The dinner was perfect! 🙂 We decided to take my parents to Fahrenheit so they could see the view!
IT WAS SO COLD! I don’t know how anyone lasted in NYC for the ball drop.
Happy New Year!! 🙂 (yes, I added in the fireworks 😉 lol
We headed back to my parent’s hotel (parent’s first time in an Uber) to relax. They were doing fireworks and a little NYE festival in the park across the street.
We said goodbye to my parents and headed out for the night!
When the elevator has good lighting…
I was up bright and early on Monday morning! Since Starbucks was the only thing open, I walked down to grab a coffee. On my way, a couple of young men smiled at me, and we exchanged “good mornings.” They asked if I had any change, and I didn’t. They looked so cold. They were wrapped up in blankets on the bench, and it broke my heart. I hated it. I went ahead and ordered them breakfast sandwiches and hot cocoas. They were all so grateful, and this just made feel amazing. It was the best way to start the new year, and it inspired me to do more and give more this year. Little acts of kindness make the most significant impact. You can ALWAYS do something.
Around noon, we went to breakfast at The Daily, a new spot in Uptown.
I ordered two eggs over medium, potatoes, bacon and a side of fruit. The food was really good! The homefries (potatoes) were fajita-style, which was a fun change-up!
It was too cold to do anything outside, and the gym was closed, so we decided to walk the mall and just get out of the house for a while. I fell in love with this top, so I cracked and bought my first Lululemon top. It was soft and comfortable, and since I plan on doing more yoga this year, I had to get it! It’s actually running gear, but it works for both.
And how fun are these? I’ve seen them on the internet, but found them when I went into Sugarfina! I bought myself and Kyle’s mom a bottle! I think she’ll love them. They are still pretty sugary like most gummy bears, but that have some health benefits. They were pretty good! This has inspired me to make gummy bears for the blog soon! I want to do like ten flavors! I made them years ago, and they were a hit! They are still a favorite recipe on my blog.
I almost cracked and bought this cute J.Crew sweatshirt, but I know it’ll be warm soon and I won’t need it. But how cute is this?!?!
We headed over to Whole Foods after the mall to pick up some snacks and food for dinner. I picked up some of my favorites 🙂
Whole Foods Chicken Salad
Baby Arugula
Siete Grain Free Tortilla Chips (the best)
Peanut Butter
Salad Dressing
Theo PB cups
Unsweetened Coconut Milk
Butternut Squash Fries
Guacamole
Sunflower & Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
Koia Protein Drink
Some of you were asking about my shoes on my insta story! Here is the link 🙂
For dinner I had an arugula salad with chicken salad, onions, chickpeas, edamame, zucchini, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, and guacamole tossed in a little vinegar and oil. <3
By the way, I saw I, Tonya! It was really good, and I highly recommend it!
*update* I had to leave the blogpost to head out to get blood work done today. I didn’t pass out, and I was hydrated, so I’m feeling good today!!*
Questions for you!
1. What was your favorite gift you gave this Christmas?
2. Is it FREEZING where you live?
3. What was your favorite moment in 2017?
Tina says
Goodness! You and Kyle will make beautiful babies.
Taralynn McNitt says
Hahaha! That won’t happen for a long time!
Susie @ Mile High Dreamers says
Sugarfina is SO dangerous! I love everything they produce haha. Reading about all your holiday goodness made me have all the holiday feels again haha. But… I’m still ready for the New Year!
I think my favorite gift I gave was Ben’s Minnetonka moccasins… Especially because he gave me the EXACT same gift (no, not planned). We’ve clearly been together for a LONG time haha.
It’s finally warmed up a little bit here but it’s been in the teens and single digits lately. I’m ready for bikini weather again!
My favorite moment was being in Italy in 2017. It was honestly such an incredible trip with so many perfect moments. I can’t wait to go back sometime!
Taralynn McNitt says
SO DANGEROUS!
I literally had to walk ten feet in front of Kyle and Steve at the mall because I didn’t want to share my sours! lol
I’m so ready for the new year too!
Ahhhh that is a great idea for a gift!!
Lol it’s SO DAMN cold here. I’m not used to this. I’m ready to go somewhere warm.
I don’t blame you! Such a fun time!
Taylor says
Hi Taralynn – your Christmas and NYE looked amazing! I am so jealous that you have taken your Christmas decorations down already, it is on my to-do list for this weekend. My favorite gift I gave this year was actually my first purchase from Magnolia (Chip & Johanna Gaines) for my mom. She loves coffee just as much as you, and always just has a random spoon on her counter with leftover coffee staining it. I got her a very tiny spoon holder that is white and reads “spoon” and she just loved it! It was cute and practical.. along with a few un-practical items :). I live in PA so it is absolutely freezing here. This morning it was -1 and I immediately logged in to Amazon and bought ear warmers! My favorite moment in 2017 was just being at the beach with my family. I wanted to comment about your statement regarding thyroid issues and panic attacks as I have a similar issue. I had my first panic attack in college when I was about 22 and it came out of nowhere. After that, I got them every couple weeks and they were not triggered by anything (that I know of). I saw a doctor and was prescribed an anti-anxiety medication (Celexa 20mg) and Xanax 0.25mg as needed. I was really scared of taking any medication because I wasn’t even on birth control, but it ended up being the best thing for me. I take the Celexa daily and then when I feel very anxious, I take a Xanax. I am sure you have yours under control since you are seeing a doctor, but I just wanted to share my perspective. I also cannot drink coffee as it gives me heart palpitations and makes my heart race, and I was curious to know if that was an issue with you as well. I also love using anything Lavender scented as it has a calming affect. I use lavender body wash in the shower and like to diffuse lavender oil by my bed for when I go to sleep, which has helped. I got a new job at work so I just caught up on your blog and am so glad to see you are doing well!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Taylor!
Thank you very much for all of the tips and open book! 🙂 Love that. My doctor has prescribed me something for anxiety, but it’s low dose and I only take it if I need it. It has been the biggest help.
I didn’t have too many decorations so it wasn’t too hard! I didn’t decorate outside (grinch, i know)
I love the Magnolia collection they have! They are one talented couple.
I don’t get heart palpitations with coffee, but I’ve heard that with other people.
Thanks for catching up on my blog!
oxoxo
Jessica Brown says
1. We didn’t do gifts for Christmas this year but we had a big family dinner the weekend before and invited my sister in-laws family. It was an amazing evening.
2. It is beyond freezing! We woke up New Year’s day with no power. BRRR!
3. My favorite moment of 2017 was actually 11 days in Ireland. It was a dream come true.
I am 100% the same with blood work and all that. I can’t deal! So glad it went better for you this last time.
Also! My husband and I are so excited to go to The McNinch House in April. I sent him the link to one of your posts about it and he agreed it would be an amazing experience. Thank you for the recommendations on your blog always! Happy New Year!
Taralynn McNitt says
I bet that was so much fun!
NO POWER? HOLY MOLY!!!
that sounds like a dream. Kyle and I want to visit Ireland!
Lol luckily today I laid down to do it, so she was getting it whether I passed out or not! I also made sure to eat a ton of food this morning and drink a ton of water.
OMG!!! You’re going to LOVE LOVE LOVE IT!!!!!!
Katie says
Hi Taralynn,
What pants do you have on in the lululemon picture? Are they lulu? They are so cute!
Thanks,
Katie
Taralynn McNitt says
Lol they are actually my boyfriend’s sweatpants hahaha! I think he got them at H&M~
Shannen says
This year all I wanted was furniture/home decor. This was definitely an “adulting” kind of Christmas! My sister made me a wooden sign that said “Always More,” and I think that would have to be my favorite gift this year.
Yesterday it was -5° to -1° for most of the day. 😑❄️ I love the snow, but those temps are not worth it.
I couldn’t pick a favorite moment from 2017. There are so many good memories from this past year, from starting my job (which I love) to playing with wolves. 2017 was fantastic!
Loved hearing about your Christmas and New Year celebrations and seeing all your pictures! I love that you added fireworks to that picture of you and Kyle. I almost didn’t notice it was photoshopped! 😂
Happy New Year!
Taralynn McNitt says
Lol you know you’re an adult when things like vacuum cleaners/and couches excite you 😉
Yikes so cold. Keep warm!!
Such a great job change!!
Hahahaha had to mention I added them because they were just too perfect lol
Julie says
I have the same problem with blood and needles. I pass out so easily! Can’t wait for your ornaments post, they look so fun! Any plans for a tutorial on the butterfly painting? I think that would make a great post. If not, could you share what kinds of paints/brushes/canvas you used? It is stunning!
Taralynn McNitt says
I just can’t handle it. I’m a baby I guess.
I actually did a video of the butterfly picture! 😀 https://www.instagram.com/p/BdN114zBuEB/?taken-by=simplytaralynnshortfilms
Sophie says
Our windchill in Elkton Maryland was -2 degrees today! Made me miss living in Charlotte!
Taralynn McNitt says
YIKES!!!! I guess I shouldn’t complain about 10 degrees.
Leslie says
I LOVE what you did for those men. Reading about your kindness made my day:) So inspiring!
Taralynn McNitt says
Makes me want to do more! <3
Chelsea @ Just Me Chelsea B. says
Okay, those gummy bears are awesome!! I’m going to have to check them out for sure!
Those Anthro mugs are too cute!! I think if I could, I would just buy one of everything there!
It’s definitely FREEZING cold here in Arkansas too! We’re not used to the low teens/twenties here so I’m ready for a tiny bit of a warm up in the next few days!
I absolutely LOVE your fur babies opening up their gifts! How cute is that?!!!
Happy Wednesday Taralynn!!
Taralynn McNitt says
They are so cool!!
Lol Anthro is amazing. I wish I could have everything there!
Hoping it’ll warm up next week! I think I saw a 60 degree day!!! lol
Have a great weekend!
Rachel says
Your New Year’s Eve looked so nice! I am seriously frozen up here in New Jersey. Walking my dog has been such a chore, which stinks, because I usually love walking him. Less fun when my legs are frozen and he starts to shiver every time we have to stop at a crosswalk 🙁
Taralynn McNitt says
Awwww see, I WISH my dogs would get cold but their coats make them want to walk forever!!! lol I’m freeeeezing!!
Kelli says
The best gift that I gave this Christmas was wedding pictures (which were 2 years over due!). Our parents and siblings loved them! I also did some customized gifts for family members which was really fun too!
We live in Michigan’s U.P and we are currently getting an additional 12 inches of snow on top of the couple of feet we already have. As a bonus…it’s 0 degrees but feels like -17.
2017 was such a good year for my family. I made a choice to switch up careers and pursue a Masters program in Social Work and was accepted to my dream college. My husband and I bought our first home and we also adopted our dog, Rollo. Overall, 2017 was a fantastic year and I really can’t choose the best moment since we had so many…a great problem to have!! 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
A perfect personal gift 😀
OOhhhhh I’ll never forget my winter living in Michigan. BURRRRRRRRRR
Sounds like you had a wonderful year!
Julie Buchanan says
1) My favorite gift I gave was an instantpot to my mom! She kept saying she was going to buy herself one after the holidays but I surprised her instead. She’s trying to make healthier recipes and thought it would help!
2) It IS freezing in Seattle! De-icing every morning before I can leave for work and then it stays frozen almost all day! Ready for spring!
3) My favorite 2017 moment was marrying my husband in September! Best day of my life! Our honeymoon roadtrip through the southwest national parks was a close 2nd!
Taralynn McNitt says
I want to jump on the instapot bandwagon! I am loving the videos of them all over the place. Such a great gift for your mom.
I’m ready for spring too! 😀
Congrats on your wedding!! xo
Kristen says
I loved all the gifts this year but since I don’t have too much money (I am a caseworker and going to grad school so money is tight!) I am not able to get gifts I wish I could buy for my family 🙁
I live in Chicago and it has been below 10 degrees since before Christmas!! Lots of days in the negatives too
Favorite moment of 2017 was accomplishing my first semester of graduate school while working full time & going to Mexico with my best friends!!!!
Taralynn McNitt says
Grad school is much better than gift giving! 🙂 It’ll all pay off! Proud of you 🙂
Eeeeek can’t imagine being in Chicago! I lived there and Iowa for many winters…I know how it is.
How fun!!!
Shelly says
Hi lovely – I hope you did much better with your bloods on a full stomach and hydrated, you poor thing. Can I ask – did I miss your “one coffee a day” resolution?
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Shelly!
It’s not really a resolution, and I haven’t mentioned it on the blog. It’s just something I wanted to start doing 🙂
And today’s lab work was MUCH better!
Shelly says
I’m glad it went okay this time!
And regarding coffee – it never hurts to try something new and see how it works for you. Can always go back if it doesn’t is my motto 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Yes that’s a great motto! I definitely have coffee every morning:) I read an interesting article about how the brain creates a tolerance for caffeine, and by reducing it for a while, you can lower the tolerance and it’ll make you drink less! I’m all about that 🙂 I’ll NEVER give it up! Just reduce my intake 😀
Lauren says
1) I gave my mom a light to go running in the dark. She was happy that I remembered her mentioning months ago that she needed one.
2) It’s not freezing here, but it’s still very cold. There was a lot of wind and flooding today in the city where I live.
3) My favorite moment of 2017 was certainly my wedding. We had the perfect day.
Taralynn McNitt says
Such a great and SAFE idea!!
Oh no, flooding is never good!!
Congrats on getting married! 🙂 How exciting!
Jace says
So cool that Kyle had all that time off from work!
Taralynn McNitt says
He actually didn’t! He had to work between the holidays, but he had a good amount of time off around the holidays to enjoy it 🙂
Jenny walter says
I love your green slip on shoes! Wherw are they from?
Taralynn McNitt says
Here is the link for you! 😀 http://bit.ly/2CMlppm
Charity says
Loved the post as always! I’m glad you guys had a great Christmas… It has been BITTERLY cold here in Arkansas and I’m over it. Ha! Our beach vacation can’t come soon enough!
I have a random question! Do you use gas logs in your fireplace or real wood? My fireplace can do either but I’m trying to decide if buying gas logs would be worth it or not. The logs I would have to buy to fit our fireplace are pretty expensive so I was curious what your thoughts were on it. 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Lol lucky! I need to plan a beach vacation!!
I have a gas fireplace! 🙂
Angela says
I pass out too! I laughed at the apple juice part because I had to drink it the last time I passed out.
Taralynn McNitt says
Lol I don’t know why but I just can’t take it!!
Alyssa says
You and Kyle live in 2 different states? I’m long distance will my fiance and it is no fun! But we’re getting married in February and then I’ll be moving to be with him!
Taralynn McNitt says
We only live only fifteen minutes from each other but we are on the boarder of south/north carolina 🙂
Alyssa says
Oh I gotcha 😉
Linda @ the Fitty says
Do you have a favourite tea brand? I also like stash but I like celestial seasonings too!
Taralynn McNitt says
I LOVE Harney & Sons!!! But also Stash is what I’m digging at the moment! I can’t get enough of their flavors.
Rachel says
I live in Austin, TX, and it was freezing here also. It literally started snowing on our way to a NYE party. That’s pretty crazy for Texas.
Thank you for all the healthy inspirations! I’ve been following your blog for awhile 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
That is insane, especially for Texas!!!
Thanks for reading and I hope you had fun at your NYE party!!
xo
Jennifer says
My favorite gift was the 24″x 36″ canvas print I got for my mom for Christmas! It’s probably been 10 years or so since she’s been to sunset beach, and she cried when she opened it because she had no idea what to expect! I love putting so much thought into gifts and seeing the reaction people get!
FREEZING is an understatement haha It’s currently 0 degrees in Minnesota with a windchill of -12! The real feel this past weekend was -30 with the air temp and windchill combined! I don’t know why I live here in the winter….
My favorite moment of 2017 was going to NC! I talk about it all the time, but it really was the best experience of this past year!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Jennifer!
That is an awesome gift! 😀 Love the personal ones.
Ohhhhhhhhh I can’t even complain. Your weather SUCKS!! hahahhaha
Such a fun trip 🙂 LOVE NC! 😀
Tara @ Run and Live Happy says
I cracked up when you said you watched shark tank because it’s always on. It is ALWAYS on!! My husband watches it almost every night.
It has been in the single digits here and I’m so over it! I do t know how anyone could be out in a tank dress only. That’s crazy!!
I had to have blood taken last week and I absolutely hate it too! I feel like I’m such a big baby when it comes to that but it’s good to know I’m not alone. 😉
your butterfly picture turned out really amazing!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hahaha, it’s become my bedtime habit! I always have it on lol
Ohhhhhhh single digits yikes!!! Just so cold to walk the dogs. I couldn’t believe those girls! Kudos to them!
Lol a lot of people are like that! Just lay down next time it helps!! Also the more hydrated you are, the less you feel it (according to the phlebotomist)
AND THANK YOU!!
Have a great New Year, Tara! Can’t wait to see what you accomplish!
Kelsey Weissner says
Hi Taralynn! I’m glad you had such a nice Christmas and NYE! I hope your appointments for your thyroid and panic attacks help lead you to some relief <3 My favorite gift I gave this Christmas would probably be a customized spoon I got for my boyfriend's dad haha! He looooves ice cream so I went on Etsy and ordered a spoon that says "Lou's Ice Cream Spoon" and he got a big kick out of it 🙂 It is absolutely FREEZING in Baltimore! I was looking at the weather the next 2 days and the low is going to be 6 degrees. SIX measly degrees lol! Are you getting any snow from the Nor Easter? I think my favorite memory from 2017 would be visiting South Carolina for the first time and then being able to go back a second time! Traveling is my favorite thing to do and it's been happening less and less over the years, so I'm glad I found a new favorite state that I can drive to! Stay warm this week!
xo Kelsey
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Kelsey!
Thanks so much 😀
That is an awesome gift. Etsy has the best customizable gifts. Ewwww 6 degrees….We arent getting ANY snow, just the cold!!!
Enjoy the weekend & happy new year!!!
Angelina says
Favorite gift I gave was a teapot brooch for my Grandma. She loves both things, separately, so I combined them and she was super excited.
It’s SO COLD here in Atlanta! It’s never this cold, even in the winter, but it was down to 10 degrees this morning!
Favorite moment was when my fiancee proposed (probably the best moment of my life so far).
Taralynn McNitt says
Awwwww that is the perfect gift!
I feel ya! 10 degrees right now…burrrrrrrrr
AWWWWWWWW CONGRATS, ANGELINA!!!!
Lori says
It was -33 here in MN on New Year’s Eve and I braved a skirt and fleece lined tights! 😂
Taralynn McNitt says
Girllllll at least you wore tights!! lol
Linda @ the Fitty says
You’re crazy good Lori! I can’t imagine myself doing that haha. I bet you spent most of your time indoors?
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says
What a fun Christmas and NYE, Taralynn! 🙂 Glad you enjoyed yourself, pizza sounds PERFECT for Christmas Eve. It’s a nice time to indulge, yum! 🙂 ❤️
It’s not freezing where I live – in fact, it doesn’t get cold here in Hong Kong. But I’m ultra scared of the cold and I felt cold even at 20ºC, haha!
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog ❤️
http://charmainenyw.com
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Charmaine!
Happy New Year!
Maybe I should be visiting Hong Kong!! <3 have a great day!
Taralynn
Sara says
How old are you? You look so young!
Taralynn McNitt says
Lol I’ll be 27 in 20 dayssssss
Ashton Jury says
OMG ThAt blanket the Becca knitted is amazing!! I can’t wait to see your DIY ornaments! I’m making Harry Potter ones, I’m planning on decorating our small tree all Harry Potter for next Christmas.
Taralynn McNitt says
SERIOUSLY AMAZING!!:D I want her to start selling them!
Awwww how cool is that! I love a themed tree!
Caroline says
Are the purple flowers real? How pretty. I am just like you when it comes to taking down the decorations after Christmas. I get overwhelmed with them all over my living room.
Taralynn McNitt says
They are!! 😀
I just like a fresh and clean new start!! 😀
Emily says
What high school did you go to?
Taralynn McNitt says
Ottumwa High School
Hana says
I love your relationship with Kyle! Can you do a Q&A soon?
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Hana!
Like a relationship Q&A?
Diane says
I hope you start doing more youtube!
Taralynn McNitt says
I will soon!:D Gotta get a better camera to film with!
Alison says
What book did you decide for the Januay review?
Taralynn McNitt says
A Man Called Ove!
Sharni says
OMG those green juice gummy bears look + sound incredible! It would be so cool if you could recreate them for your blog. If anyone can do it – it’s you.
My favourite gift I gave this Christmas was Jamie Oliver’s new cookbook for my dad. He hates cooking and using a thousand ingredients, but he gets so bored of the 3 meals he usually cooks, so I figured 5 ingredient recipes wouldn’t be too fussy for him to make. He absolutely loved it and spent hours flicking through and saying ‘I have those ingredients, I can make that, etc etc etc’. And then he went and displayed it in his kitchen with pride, which was so adorable.
It is basically the opposite of freezing where I live, but I am a little jealous of your cosy, wintery weather! It’s around 85F/30C most days here, but the humidity is the killer! Also I love that elevator photo of you + Kyle haha very cute! Happy New Year Taralynn!
Sharni xo
http://www.agirlandgrey.com
Taralynn McNitt says
Yes! I’D LOVE TO do that. I’m thinking about doing a ton of gummy bear juice flavors!
That is a great gift idea!
I’ll take your warm weather any day!! xo xo
Happy New Year, Sharni!!!
O says
Why didn’t Meighan come over this year?
Taralynn McNitt says
Meighan went home to visit her family and went on a fun Canada trip! Did miss her though!!
Abby says
Where are your heels from?
Taralynn McNitt says
Target like five years ago!
Vanessa says
1. What was your favorite gift you gave this Christmas?
My boyfriend got a photo book with the story of how we met and all our favorite moments.
2. Is it FREEZING where you live?
No, just grey and rainy and stormy. Not much better 😀
3. What was your favorite moment in 2017?
I finally got my bachelors degree, so throwing my cap up in the air at graduation ceremony was such a wonderful feeling!
Taralynn McNitt says
AWWWW that is so cute!!!
I guess I’d rather take the cold! Rainy days are hard with the dogs!
Nice job!!! & congrats!!
Mary says
Great recap post per usual.
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Mary!
Myriam says
1. What was your favorite gift you gave this Christmas?
This is a stupid one, but probably one of the gifts I gave my boyfriend: a hot water bottle to keep him warm, with the sentence “You’re not from this planet” written in the case that wraps it .
2. Is it FREEZING where you live?
It was some days ago, but right now it almost feels like spring (between 60-69 degrees), only extremely windy, so strange! (I live in Barcelona)
3. What was your favorite moment in 2017?
Probably when I met my boyfriend. We work together, and after we started talking and I told him I loved Charles Baudelaire (my bf is French) he offered me one of his books, “Les Fleurs du mal”, with some notes inside to tell me his favourite poems. It was so romantic and special, and also so unexpected.
HAPPY NEW YEAR, MY LOVELY! I wish you the very best :****
(Sorry I think I might have duplicated my comment)
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank is not stupid at all, Myriam! Great gift 😀
Goodness send your weather my way!!!!
Awwwww so romantic!!!!!! I love that!:D
xo xo xo Happy New Year!!!!
Norie says
I wish I was at your house on Christmas! Looked like a blast. How come you didn’t travel to Iowa?
Taralynn McNitt says
It was a lot of fun!
I have a lot of trips to Iowa coming up for weddings and I didn’t feel like going back like five times this year. I also didn’t want to leave Kyle and my dogs for Christmas. My parents drove 18 hours to Iowa and I honestly didn’t feel up to it. Kyle didn’t have all the days off, there really isn’t many places to stay in Iowa because my whole family is home and there is no rooms lol. I don’t think spending eight days in a hotel around Christmas would be that fun! My brother wasn’t going to be there either, so we decided to just relax and have Christmas at home! 😀
Kari says
You painted those Monarchs? That is incredible.
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Kari!!
P. says
Your hair looks great straight!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, P.!
Valerie says
1. I don’t know if I have a favorite gift, but getting to help be Santa for my boyfriend’s son was pretty great, and put me more in the holiday spirit than I have been in a long time.
2. YES. As I type this it’s -7 without the wind chill, and that’s actually WARM compared to how it’s been lately; most of last week we were having a high of something around -14 (I live in Wisconsin lol).
3. My favorite part of 2017 was probably getting to go to Canada for a week this past summer with my boyfriend, his son, and some of our friends.
Taralynn McNitt says
Awwww that is the best!:) Kids are the best part of Christmas for sure.
lol I know people have it so much worse than I do! just so not used to it!!
Canada in the summer is my goal this year!! 🙂
nicole @ bento momentos says
this recap was fun to read 🙂 thank you!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks for reading, Nicole!!
Jenn @ Five Borough Bucket List says
1. It sounds kind of lame, but I got my mom (in addition to a bunch of other things) this adult coloring book with all NYC spots. She grew up in the city, and now she lives in Florida while I’m in New York. Whenever I send her pictures of things I’m doing and places I’m going, she gets all nostalgic. She loves coloring, so it was the perfect find!
2. It’s not so much “freezing” as BELOW freezing lol. In NY our wind chills have been around 0, but a bunch of nights have been around -5 or so. Yesterday it was 30 and I felt comfortable outside! I can’t even fathom how anyone stayed outside in Times Square for New Years.
3. My favorite moment was running the Marine Corps Marathon in DC. It was my first marathon and first time in DC (I used your recs for places like Killer ESP, so thanks!), and after years of injuries, it was amazing to be able to cross the finish line.
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Jenn!
That is not lame at all! Adult coloring books are awesome and very therapeutic. I bet she loved it! Especially since it was filled with reminders of the city!
Omg that is so cold!!!
That is so amazing that you ran a marathon! Good for you:) D.C. is the place to do it! I love that city so much!!
Stacie says
I know this wasn’t one of the questions, but I cannot STAND getting blood drawn/shots/etc. I also pass out every time. I have to take someone with me. It’s the WORST.
Taralynn McNitt says
Ugh, I wish I could have taken someone with me! lol (tried to adult hard)
The second time she decided to put me in a room and let me lay down. It was so much better! Also, she was so right. I came back early morning BEFORE coffee, super hydrated and had breakfast! It helped a ton!
Ann says
FYI, I’m the same with blood being drawn too or anything that deals with blood! It’s so embarrassing!
As for the favorite gift…gave our daughter the Harney and Sons hot cinnamon tea and I have used about half now, it’s SO good! I’ll have to buy her another can soon!
It’s also freezing here in Michigan, it’s been -10 to -20 given the day. WHY do we live here? This is what I ask myself everyday in the winter, every year! UGH!
And the best for last for 2017, my husband’s boss got let go at the end of the year, had to wait until the end, but it was so worth it!!! 🤗
Happy New Year Taralynn!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Ann!
lol I think it’s actually pretty common, so nothing to be embarrassed about.
Ohhhhhh that hot cinnamon tea is just the best!!!!!!
Yikes! so cold. I’ll never forget the snow apocalypse the winter I lived there!
Enjoy the weekend! & happy new year!
Heather @ Polyglot Jot says
First of all, so sorry that you passed out! Glad it went better the second time around for you! Sounds like you had a lovely holiday season! It’s currently snowing like crazy in PA and it’s been below freezing for almost a month. I am thinking of shipping myself and my family off to some tropical island until April…:-( Babel is a good movie! I want to see the shape of water really bad! Have you seen the new trailer for “A Quiet Place? Looks awesome!
Taralynn McNitt says
Lol it’s ok. I kind of predicted it! My phlebotomist said I needed to drink more water and it’ll be easier to do it! I was a bit dehydrated.
The holiday season was so great!!
It’s funny that it always snows AFTER the holidays when we are totally over it!!
Ahhhh I need to ship myself somewhere too lol
OMG THE SHAPE OF WATER IS SO GOOD!!! go see it 🙂
I don’t think I’ve seen the previews! I’ll go look now!
Taralynn McNitt says
OH WAIT. Yes!! I did see the previews to that. It looks interesting but all the quietness gives me anxiety lol!! but I love love love those actors!!! And they make the best hollywood couple!
Amy says
Just wanted to say that I’m really looking forward to you opening up even more on your blog this year. I know your followers are going to be super supportive. I’ve been following you since Undressed Skeleton. You’re an amazing photographer and writer. Thank you for sharing your life with all of us. You’re this amazing combination of inspiring and relatable. Happy New Year!!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you, Amy!
xo
Tessa says
I’ve been looking forward to your Christmas post! I love the mugs you bought at Anthropologie.
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you, Tessa!!
Meghan says
I gave my dad a drone for Christmas this year and he loved it, definitely the best thing I’ve gifted in awhile. He has been talking about wanting one for awhile and when he opened it up he was like a little kid, it was so cute!
It has been about -25 with windchill in Wisconsin for the past couple weeks…i don’t mind winter but when it’s this cold I just hate it haha I love getting outside in the winter but this is just too cold to stand.
My favorite moment of 2017 was getting married!
The McNinch house looks so cute, I wish they had something like that around here! Happy New Year!!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Meghan!
That is an amazing gift!! Daughter of the year for sure!
OMG, Wisconsin is the last place I want to be right now lol Stay warm please!
Congrats on getting married!!
McNinch house is so fun, definitely a special occasion place!!
M. says
I wish I could take my parents to the McNinch house. The bill came to $700 for my boyfriend and I and we were shocked. The food is great but the price is outrageous.
Taralynn McNitt says
It is definitely pricy, but that’s why it’s just a special occasion spot 🙂
amanda says
While it was really nice of you to buy the young men food, in all honesty most young men, perfectly capable of working, are drug addicts. Life choices are something we all have to make. I unfortunately have to deal with young drug addicts- opiod addiction is growing in our country. It is very unfortunate. They can continue their lifestyle because they are basically given free shelter, food, medical care, etc. while begging for change to support their drug addiction. by those meaning well but the term if you give a mouse a cookie… most have no real desire for change or to work, it is sad but true. We have to send crews through the camps we deal with to clean up feces and needles.
Taralynn McNitt says
I understand where you are coming from, but in the end we are all human. We all have pain, we have battles, we have addictions. It’s also wrong to just assume every young man on the street sleeping on a park bench in 10 degree weather is a drug addict. He was kind to me, in need, and I wanted to give him something eat. Even if he is battling an addiction, an act of kindness can make a person feel a little less down, or depressed. You never know 🙂 It’s important to shine light on people instead of turning a cheek. I understand not wanting to give someone money just incase they do have an addiction, but a hot cocao and warm breakfast sandwich is harmless 😉 xo
Mallory says
great response!
Brooklyn says
I have so much to say!!
Those cups?!?! I have never heard of them before, how cool! I feel like they would be a great gift for so many people.
That cutting board is stunning. I wouldn’t want to use it either.
Is that a blanket that Becca knitted? It looks so soft and cozy!
You are so talented. Those gifts you sent to Kyle’s mom are just beautiful.
Your bathroom is gorgeous! I need that tub!
I have never seen homelessness like I see in Vancouver. It’s heartbreaking.
My boyfriend and I always try to bring extra food in our lunches to give people who need it.
On my old work route I always saw the same homeless man. I knew he had no teeth so I would get soft foods like apple sauce and bananas to bring him.
It feels good to give and people need it!
http://www.justbeingbrooklyn.com
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Brooklyn!!
They were pretty awesome!!! Kudos to my brother 🙂
Lol I turned it upside down to take photos and use it for a prop! I’m never slicing a thing on this! 😀
Becca is very talented. I told her she should start selling those blankets!:) I love it!!
That is so sad, especially with how cold it is in Vancouver 🙁 So glad you and your boyfriend help out! xo You guys are amazing souls.
xo xo xo
Amy says
I wish I was your friend! Thanks for the gift ideas too.
I kind of wondered why bloggers put their gift guides on the blog before the holidays? Do they actually buy those? Do their families not read their blogs?
Taralynn McNitt says
Lol my family definitely reads my blog and so does my boyfriend. He reads it everyday lol! I couldn’t even put them up there!
Sass says
Your house looked so cozy on Christmas Eve. We drove all the way to Texas from North Carolina and it was exhausting but I was happy to see my family.
I still need to visit Fahrenheit.
Taralynn McNitt says
Sounds like a long drive!!
Claire says
Hi Taralynn ! Love your blog ! I’ve been reading it for about 4 years now and you always inspire me with your healthy eating and positivity. Love the photos too ! Long may you continue x
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you, Claire!! xo
Emily B says
My favorite gift was probably the new Bible my husband bought me!
Not really. I live in North Dakota and the temps lately have been -45 or so 😝…
my fave moment of 2017 was 2 separate trips to NYC and the biggest was when my baby boy was born in July!
Taralynn McNitt says
A great gift 🙂
OH MY GOSH.
SO COLD….
Congrats on your baby boy!!! how exciting! 😀
Siobhan says
I loved your recap post so much and I’m just gonna reply with my running thoughts while I was reading it haha, sorry in advance.
All that food from Christmas Eve look so incredibly tasty. I adore gold, and the wine glasses you got are exactly my taste (so is the price tag haha).
I have wanted to play What Do You Meme for so long, and now I want to play it even more. HeadsUp is the best game ever! I play it with my friends all the time and it’s always a ridiculously fun time.
I am in love with the ornaments you made. You are such a talented artist. That butterfly painting is unreal!
I so wish that Wholefoods was in Alaska, I would love to shop there.
My favorite gift I gave this Christmas was a photo cube of me making funny faces that I gave to my best friend. The look on her face when she opened it was priceless haha.
It was 50 degrees here yesterday which is CRAZY for January in Alaska, and today it was mid twenties, with snow all day.
My favorite moment in 2017 was pretty much the whole summer because I was able to do so many things and spend so much time with my friends 🙂
Sorry about the long comment, but I really enjoyed your recap! Happy New Year!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Siobhan!
Thank you so much 🙂 I always look forward to your comments.
Lol yes, you couldn’t beat the prices on those glasses 😀
I love game night and it’s the best way to let loose and laugh!
50 degrees in Alaska!??? I’M MOVING THERE! hhaha jk, but seriously that sounds amazing.
I love long comments! No apologies necessary! xo xo
Harriet says
Happy New Year!! Love this post and all the photos. Your Lululemon top is amazing, there gear is so adaptable to all sports. Spaghetti squash?? I so want to try it but I don’t think we can get that in New Zealand will have to keep a look out. The best gift I gave this Christmas would have to be a hand made gold bracelet from Wyoming to my mum. And the same designer made my dad a custom leather watch holder. And they both absolutely loved their gifts! It’s so hot where I am on holiday (107.6 Fahrenheit) so ready to go home to 86 Fahrenheit. My favourite moment of 2017 was completing my half marathon, I never thought I would ever do it! So happy that I did, an I am looking forward seeing what I can accomplish this year! Have a great weekend!!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Harriet!!
Thanks so much 🙂 Hope you had a great New Year!
OMG. You should maybe start growing it if you can’t find it! IT’S AMAZING 😀
What a great gift giver you are!
Send me the warmth! 😀 I’m also so proud of you for completing that race! ou go girl!
Dawn says
First of all, I love your blog. I have been reading for quite awhile and am always inspired by you. I was reading a fitness thread today and came upon a website called imperfect produce. Unfortunately, since I live in the middle of nowhere, it’s not available in my area. I was wondering if you had ever tried it. 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
So funny! I was just looking at that! 🙂 I still need to see if it’s in my area! 😀
Chelsea says
Read your recap with my coffee this morning, as I love to do! So glad you had a wonderful Christmas and NYE! Xo!
Taralynn McNitt says
Awwww thanks, Chelsea! xo
Joslyn says
On New Year’s Eve, it was -26 windchill where I live! (Still hasn’t got much warmer…) Does Becca sell her blankets? Because she needs to! I also signed up for my 2nd Half Marathon ever today which is in May. So your newest post about running is my next stop! Happy New Year Taralynn!
Erica says
Hi Taralynn,
That picture of you and Kyle from New Year’s Eve is so adorable!!!! It looks like you had a lovely holiday. I also love your decor in your living room! It is so nice and it makes your place look so cozy.
1. Two years ago at Christmas I gave my grandmother a fleece, gray blanket. She was battling cancer at the time and she fell in love with that blanket and had it on her all of the time. When she passed away a few months later she was cremated with the blanket. Ever since then, I’ve been searching for that specific blanket but I’ve never been able to find it. This year while I was out Christmas shopping I found three of the exact same blankets and they were already in gift boxes with a cute little bow (from HomeSense). I bought one for my sister, my mom and myself. It was a very emotional gift and we all cried when they opened them. It will forever be one of my favourite gifts.
2. It is freezing where I live. I’m in Canada so it’s in celsius degrees but this weekend it was -26 degrees (-15 degrees Fahrenheit). Talk about cold!!!! We also got 20 inches of snow on Christmas Day. You think I would be used to this weather after living here for 26 years but I’m not haha!
3. My favorite moment in 2017 was when I made the choice to change jobs (and got the job). I’m a nurse and I’ve completely changed the type of nursing I do now. I am so much happier with my career and it has truly paved a great path for me for 2018 🙂
I LOVE your blog. Keep the great posts coming. You are so inspiring. xoxo
Much love,
Erica
Erica says
Hi Taralynn,
That picture of you and Kyle from New Year’s Eve is so adorable!!!! It looks like you had a lovely holiday. I also love your decor in your living room! It is so nice and it makes your place look so cozy.
1. Two years ago at Christmas I gave my grandmother a fleece, gray blanket. She was battling cancer at the time and she fell in love with that blanket and had it on her all of the time. When she passed away a few months later she was cremated with the blanket. Ever since then, I’ve been searching for that specific blanket but I’ve never been able to find it. This year while I was out Christmas shopping I found three of the exact same blankets and they were already in gift boxes with a cute little bow (from HomeSense). I bought one for my sister, my mom and myself. It was a very emotional gift and we all cried when they opened them. It will forever be one of my favourite gifts.
2. It is freezing where I live. I’m in Canada so it’s in celsius degrees but this weekend it was -26 degrees. Talk about cold!!!! We also got 20 inches of snow on Christmas. You think I would be used to this weather after living here for 26 years but I’m not haha!
3. My favorite moment in 2017 was when I made the choice to change jobs (and got the job). I’m a nurse and I’ve completely changed the type of nursing I do now. I am so much happier with my career and it has truly paved a great path for me for 2018 🙂
I LOVE your blog. Keep the great posts coming. You are so inspiring. xoxo
Much love,
Erica
Anna says
I love your recap posts!
Question – did you ever get results back for your thyroid? I often have panic attacks and my mom suffers from hypothyroidism so I may too. I’m wondering if thyroid imbalances and panic attacks are related and if it is something I should also get checked out.
Thanks!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Anna!
Yes. I have gotten them back and now I’ll go in for more testing.
A lot of illness/imbalances are connected with panic attacks for sure. I’d talk to your doctor!