Happy Monday, Everyone!
It’s gloomy and rainy here, which sets the perfect mood for blogging my recap post with a cup of coffee. I am feeling less-overwhelmed this morning. On Friday, I was burned out and felt like my head was going to explode. I know reading my blog makes my life look very easy-going and relaxed, but those photos are only glimpses into what goes on behind the scenes. I spend about 10-13 hours behind my computer screen every day, and when I’m not behind the screen, I’m creating my blog content. Don’t get me wrong; blogging is so fun, and I wouldn’t trade it for the world. But sometimes I don’t give myself enough time outside of my computer or creative world. Not all weeks or days are like that though; I’ve just been trying to catch on up everything so I can enjoy my time while I’m away next month.
Because I had such a blog-focused week, I decided to keep my computer shut all weekend. I put my energy into getting my home projects done. I am feeling so much more refreshed today, and I look forward to another busy week! I am skipping out on yoga this morning to get this blog post done, but I’ll be heading to the 1 pm class!
Anyways…let’s go back to last week! I left my last recap post off on Tuesday.
My breakfast on Tuesday morning was delicious.
I made a chocolate banana smoothie that tasted like dessert and had one of my vegan blueberry pumpkin oatmeal muffins on the side. I’ll make sure to get that recipe posted this week.
My smoothie had cashew milk, chocolate protein powder (plant-based vegiday), 1/2 large frozen banana, 3-4 ice cubes, and 1 tablespoon of Chocolate Lover Superfood Blend (cacao, carob, shredded coconut, chia seeds, and lucuma powder.)
I spent the rest of the day writing, walking the dogs, and snacking on random things instead of making lunches. I tossed a salad together for dinner, and it was pretty good! My salad had spring lettuce blend, red onion, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, grilled chicken, and herb goddess dressing on top. I am still going strong with that dressing and haven’t gotten sick of it yet.
I headed over to my parent’s house later in the evening on Tuesday so I could get some stuff done for a campaign I’ve been working on. I sat in the backyard and worked on writing while the dogs ran in the around for hours chasing each other.
I stayed up way too late on Tuesday night, so I was sleepy on Wednesday. I decided to hang out at my parent’s house and work from there that way my dogs could continue to play without me feeling guilty for making them lay around on the couch. When we are at my house, I take them for one-mile walks three times a day, and it’s nice to take a break from that once in a while.
It was beautiful outside, so I played a towel down and worked from out by the pool. I snacked on fresh fruit and pistachios while enjoying my coffee.
After editing all morning, I started the writing process in the afternoon. I turned on a movie, made a delicious Vans blueberry waffle with peanut butter, had a cup of lemon ginger tea, and set the mood to get to start writing.
I decided to watch Forever My Girl, and it was good, cheesy, and bad all at the same time.
I headed home around 4 pm, and took the boys for a long walk! I finished my writing and needed a break from technology. We walked about three miles around the neighborhood working on their training.
After my walk, I had another chocolate banana protein smoothie with crumbled almond butter on top.
I had dinner around 7:45 pm. My dinner plate had mixed spring greens, tomatoes, red onions, a Gardein chipotle black bean veggie burger, Tessemae’s green goddess dressing, and a side of Siete chips.
After finishing my work on Thursday afternoon, I headed out to meet up with my mom for a walk in the park on her lunch hour. It was a gorgeous day, and I was so excited to be out in it.
I picked up one of my favorites before meeting up with my mom. I love the Cayenne Cleanse Healthade Kombucha!
After walking with my mom, I headed to Earth Fare to pick up groceries for a serious meal prep. I wanted to have food in the house all weekend long so I wouldn’t have to worry about cooking anything. I also didn’t want to microwave another slice of frozen Daiya pizza or veggie burger.
I am going to do a separate blog post with details on the whole meal prep.
But if you’re looking for a guide in the meantime, here are some posts that will help you out!
Fajita Recipe
Roasted Vegetables
Vegan Almond Butter Crispy Treats
Go-To Vegan Kale Salad
Thanks to my meal prep, my Thursday night dinner was delicious!
I had my kale salad, roasted veggies, and fajitas.
I spent Friday morning and afternoon photographing, editing, and writing the post for these delicious Healthy Vegan Almond Butter & Chocolate Crispy Treats recipe! My family and Kyle were obsessed with these! Not one left…
And look what I found Friday! My very first strawberry from my little garden! It was so excited to pick it 🙂 I have about give tomatoes that’ll be ready to pick in about a week or so! Kyle is in charge of my garden while I’m away for two and a half weeks, so all the pressure is on him to keep it thriving.
For lunch on Friday, I had a big bowl of kale salad topped with my chicken fajita blend and roasted vegetables. Oh, and Herb Goddess dressing of course.
Leo likes to cuddle up with me on the couch while I work. He was asleep in that position for thirty minutes! We secretly think he’s a cat.
On Friday afternoon, I decided to start doing a new running challenge for myself. It only takes ten minutes from my day, and it’s such a good therapy session. Every day, I am going to run a mile to represent something I struggle with. The run can also be about something simple. I’m just going to pick a reason for my run every day and focus on the reason the entire mile. I love running for a reason and not running for to burn calories or get fit. It’s so good for the mind, and knowing it’s only one mile makes it even better
Friday was my first #ReasonForMyRun mile! I ran for my anxiety. If you want to join me, just tag me in your story/posts and use the hashtag! I love it so far. It looks like I’ll be running on the treadmill because of the rain today though!
I finished up my final writing assignment on Friday afternoon, and then called it quits for the night. My mom came over, and we headed out for a super long dog walk.
For dinner, I had my meal prep fajitas and roasted vegetables with guacamole and hummus!
Of course, we ended the night with Dateline.
I don’t know why, but I was up at 5 am on Saturday!
I had tea and took the dogs out for an early morning walk. I decided to get my mile done a bit earlier because I had so much to do on Saturday!
On Saturday, I ran for my battle with endometriosis.
My breakfast was so delicious!
I had two eggs cooked in avocado oil, a side of quinoa, and guacamole! And don’t forget the coffee…
I posted this photo MONTHS ago. This photo was taken after doing a closet cleanse. I knew I’d have to do several of these cleanouts gradually. No one needs that many clothes, so Saturday, I did another closet cleanout and I think you’ll be impressed. Hopefully, this inspires you to purge all those unused and useless clothes hanging in your closets. I thought of it this way. Having those clothes that I never wear in my closet makes me greedy. Someone else in need could be wearing them or using them. So, if I hadn’t worn it in over a year, it was time to go! And it’s OK to buy new clothes, but my new rule is that I have to toss one thing for every new thing I buy.
And the damage began…
To keep me entertained, I turned on a new season of Southern Charm to watch while doing the cleanout.
I took just about everything out of my closet, and neatly folded all the clothes I was going to donate. I had a ton of extra bins in the attic I put them in.
I had a lot of clothes hanging up in my spare bedrooms that I emptied out as well. I no longer use up three closets! I’m now a one closet type of gal! It feels so good!
I know this may look like a lot of clothes still, but I use all of them. In about five months, I’ll do another closet cleanout! And what you’re looking at is all I own now! Just scroll back up to the first photo, and you’ll be able to tell the difference.
I still need to organize them into sections better, but that can wait!
This took about four hours.
I stopped for lunch while working on the closet project.
I had sweet potatoes, quinoa, guacamole, and butternut squash!
When I came downstairs, I found a bouquet of flowers sitting on the table. Kyle knew I was a bit stressed over the week, and he thought flowers would brighten my day (and maybe my attitude? lol), But he’s the sweetest and that meant so much to me!
And if we’re being real, I probably had a bit of an attitude problem over the weekend, which rarely happens to me, but I was just in a mood. Do you guys ever get in “moods?” Mine is brought on by stress.
After my closet cleanout, I headed out for a long walk with the dogs, and then hopped on the couch with my dinner to finish watching Southern Charm. I hid my computer under the coffee table so I wouldn’t be tempted to open it. I even closed my phone into a drawer after making dinner so I’d forget about it and avoid scrolling through Instagram stories.
For dinner, I had a kale salad with quinoa, guacamole, avocado oil, and butternut squash on top! I also had an apple chicken sausage, but that wasn’t pictured.
I was so tired that I fell asleep at 8:45 pm on the couch. Kyle was upstairs working in the office, so I continued to sleep like a baby.
I was up bright and early on Sunday to have coffee, breakfast, and get the dogs ready for training. Their trainer came to us on Sunday to see them walk the neighborhood, and it was the only time I was frustrated that they didn’t do anything wrong. Safe to say that the dogs have been doing incredible, and are completely different from when we first started training with John at Holland k9 Services. It’s really been amazing to watch their transformation! I actually LOVE walking my dogs now. If you live in or around the Charlotte area, I HIGHLY recommend them for dog training.
Next weekend, we’ll be training uptown, so that’ll be super interesting to see how they do!
For my breakfast, I had an omelet stuffed with quinoa and topped with guacamole! THIS IS A GAMECHANGER.
I added avocado oil to a pan on high heat and cracked two eggs into the pan. After about a minute, I sprinkled 1/4 cup of cooked quinoa in the center and let it cook for an additional two minutes. And then I flipped it over like an omelet and cooked each side for about 45 seconds. I added a little tutorial video on my Instagram story today!
Hello, perfection.
I headed to Target to get a new bed comforter on Sunday morning after training but ended up getting a new rug instead. I couldn’t find bedding that I liked, but I did find a rug that I wanted in my dining room! I’ve been trying to introduce more color into my living room, and I thought this would be a great start! I have been obsessed with their OpalHouse line! Here is the link to the rug if you want the details! (rug link here)
Next project? Painting the mirror in my living room. I was going to buy a rustic wooden one, but it’s much cheaper to paint this mirror to match my other furniture! I’m pretty happy with how it turned out!
I enjoyed this Suja Kombucha while painting! I bought their other flavors to try as well, so I’ll keep you posted!
I used the Devine Color paint that target carries! It’s meant for walls, but it worked perfectly on the mirror! I did about two coats, and then wiped some of it off so the black would poke through to give it a weathered look to match my other furniture.
While the paint dried, I laced up and headed out to do my mile! On Saturday, I ran for self-doubt.
My lunch was delicious, and I highly recommend this little fix! One of my favorite combos is lox and cream cheese! It’s unbelievable. Remember last summer when I stuffed hard boiled eggs with gucamole and added lox on top? Well, this is equally as good! It’s quick fix, and a great idea to make for guests.
I toasted the O’Doughs flaxseed everything bagels, topped it with Kite Hill vegan chive cream cheese spread, and added the lox and avocado on top! My friend, Meighan, recommended the chive Kite Hill spread, and it did not disappoint. Even Kyle LOVED this combo!
I can’t wait to have this for lunch again today!
I also had half a bottle of Koia with cashew milk for some extra protein and to cure my sweet tooth.
The paint finally dried and I hung up the mirror! I love the new color because it’s so much softer!
And I rearranged the dining area to simplify it. I took out the lamp, added the bench back to the table and got rid of the chairs, and we still need to add the second shelf to the wall. The first attempt was a bit of a disaster! I’m still debating on painting the table…
I picked up these flavored Nut-Thins while I was out and about Sunday and it was worth sharing! The honey ones taste like little Teddy Grahams, and I love anything honey mustard flavored! They were 2 for $5 at Earth Fare, so I may have to stop and pick up some more!
The boys also got some new toys that they enjoyed destroying.
Kyle and I ended the night with a Blue Apron and watched American Idol! I stayed up longer and watched Naked and Afraid as well! I love that show.
Now, I’m off to walk the dogs, head to yoga, and then get back to writing!
Questions for you!
- Have you been putting off anything around your house?
- Are there clothes in your closet that you haven’t worn in over a year?
- Are you up for another fitness challenge?
Khloe says
It’s always a treat when you post a recap blog. I live for them!
I have been putting off cleaning out my car. Does that count?
I hope you do another challenge! I lost ten pounds on your first one!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Khloe!
That is so sweet of you! Thank you so much! 🙂 I love writing them. I look forward to it!
AND IM THERE WITH YOU! Having dogs, my car is a craphole right now lol I’m almost tempted just to buy a new car because I don’t even want to deal with it. lol (obviously won’t do that)
Ten poubds? wow! that is awesome! Glad you’re up for it!
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says
What a productive week you’ve had, Taralynn! I like your new dining room area, rearranged. Very fresh, perfect for spring! 🙂
There are SO many clothes in my closet that I never wear. I’ve been decluttering lately and I’m halfway through! Will be getting the rest done during the weekend when I have a break from my full-time job! ❤️
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Charmaine!
Thanks so much for the sweet compliments!
Decluttering feels so good, doesn’t it? Glad you’re doing it as well! xo
Get some rest and enjoy your weekend!
Mandi Elliott says
My husband and I bought a house about 9 months ago, and it seems like once it was livable all the home improvement projects slowed to a snails pace! It will all get done eventually…lol.
Love your blog 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Lol I know what you mean! If it’s livable, why fix it? haha
xo xo
Emma says
Hi Tara!
I love hearing about your running! I got into running about 2 years ago, and it has become such a therapeutic release for me. I always feel my anxiety melt away when I’m going on a good run 🙂
Kind of a random question but how do you like Charlotte in comparison to Atlanta? My boyfriend lives in Atlanta now, and I’m still deciding how I feel about the city hahaha. Charlotte looks so beautiful!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Emma!
Thanks so much! Running is a great anxiety release for sure!
I LOVE Charlotte in comparison to Atlanta. Don’t get me wrong, I loved Atlanta, but Charlotte feels like a small town, it has everything, you can get from point A to B in less than 30 minutes, and the charm is to die for! Definitely spend a week here and you’ll see what I mean!
Lace says
I’ve been watching Southern Charm on repeat too! Who is your favorite?
Taralynn McNitt says
It’s weirdly addicting!
Hmmmmm I really like Chelsea! (sometimes Craig lol) It honestly changes every episode!! lol
Elizabeth Jansen says
Hi Taralynn!
Always love reading your recap posts 🙂 I LOVE the way your mirror looks now. I agree, much softer on the eyes…and personally, I like your table the way it is 🙂 Oh, I’ve been putting off spring cleaning and getting rid of clothes too! It takes so much time to go through everything and then reorganize it… Hope all is well!
Elizabeth
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks so much, Elizabeth!
Thanks for the input. It’s nice because I literally cannot decide what I want to do lol
Agree the cleaning process of the closet is no joke lol Feels good once it’s done!
Keep kicking butt on your runs! I just love following your journey!
xo
Krista says
I love your idea of running the mile for a reason. I run every weekday morning to get ready mentally for my wedding. It gives me something to do in the morning that makes me feel productive, even if I haven’t gotten anything actually done for the wedding that day, lol.
I’m pretty minimalist when it comes to clothing, so I usually clean out old clothes whenever I get a new shirt or something. I used to be super insecure about my weight before I lost a bunch a few years ago, so I never really enjoyed shopping. I’m on the hunt for honeymoon clothes though, so I’ve been scouring thredup and Lulu’s a lot more recently! 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
That is an awesome routine, especially if it’s for mental health!
Ahhhh yes love lulus! I need to be more of a minimalist too! (never will happen, but I can definitely replicate the habits!)
Kait says
Hi Taralynn, happy Monday!
1. I’ve been putting off cleaning out my hall closet w/ all the toiletries and linens. There are so many face masks and lotions and mini sunscreens that I don’t use or are expired or just need to be place together. I could also go for a few new sets of towels, which means purging worn ones.
2. No, but only because back in November I did a three month wardrobe capsule as part of Project 333. That said, I’ll do a new capsule starting mid-May to mid-August for summer, otherwise I have waaaay too many clothing options and it overwhelms me.
3. I would love a May fitness challenge – maybe a walking challenge paired with body weight exercises?
Cheers,
Kait
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Kait!
Hall closets seem to always take the most beating lol I feel like I stuff everything in there. Mine could use some help too! Oh and new towels? Check all the home goods for that!
That is so awesome! I think you’re right about it being overwhelming!
Definitely lots of walking and light exercises! Nothing extreme!
Tara says
I love your posts! Always a nice distraction when I am falling asleep at work. Do you cook the sweet potatoes/squash the same way you did the carrots? Also where do you get the pumkin seeds, they always look so good!
I’ve been trying to do the closet thing too, it’s hard when half the stuff barely got worn so I keep it around thinking I will wear it eventually. Finally saying enough is enough!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks so much, Tara!
I just cook them the same right on the pan 😀
I get them in bulk at Earth Fare!
Yup! SAME WITH ME! I have things I keep saying I’ll wear but never do!
Katie says
Wow it’s crazy how much of a difference a new rug can make! I’d be hesitant to buy one with so much color but it looks SOOO nice!! Mirror looks awesome too!! Also, love love your meal prep this week I need to try it out it’s super delicious looking and seems really easy to follow. I cant believe how much clothes you have haha I need to clean mine out asap! I hope you have a fantastic week girlfriend!!
XO, Katie | http://www.meshkomoments.com
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Katie!
Small changes make the biggest difference! 😀
I just needed some pop of color in this living room! I will post the details on the meal prep soon!
Lol glad I’ve gotten rid of most of them! Less overwhelming!
Katie says
Have you been putting off anything around your house? YES unfortunately. I have a list of spring cleaning duties and need to get to them! And also need to get our baby nursery painted. So hard deciding on a color!
Are there clothes in your closet that you haven’t worn in over a year? Yes to this question too! I donated a bunch of clothes a few weeks ago, yet my closet is still too full!
Are you up for another fitness challenge? Yes!
Taralynn McNitt says
I bet!! But so exciting for you! 😀
Maybe just do a cleanout every week 🙂
and yay! glad you’re in!
Anna says
Paint the table! You can always sand it down and re-stain it if you want to change it later, right? The Koia drinks are my favorite, and the Kite Hill cream cheese makes a great base for a dairy-free mac ‘n cheese or alfredo!
What did you think of the bagels? I haven’t found any gluten-free ones I love, so I typically just make my own with cassava flour but don’t always feel like prepping them. 🙂
I love watching the transformation with your dogs. I put up with some of my dog’s behaviors for so long, it almost felt normal to be stressed out by her. I finally invested in classes and trainers that work specifically with her breed-type and it’s the best feeling to have trust in her again.
Have you thought about fencing in your yard for your pups? It may make your life easier!
Taralynn McNitt says
True I could! bug omg the work hahaha
Um….that is GENIUS!!! I’ll have to try that this weekend! Thanks for that idea 🙂 I may add it to my spaghetti squash!
I love those bagels! They taste more like breadsticks, but if you’re looking for LEGIT tasting gluten-free bagels, UDIS is by far the best.
OMG! I’m so happy for you. It’s crazy how much stress our own dogs can put on us when they are supposed to bring so much light to our lives. But it comes down to our own fault! We have to be trained as well. I’m proud of you! Can’t wait to hear more about your journey!
I live in a townhome! So I have my whole porch decked, but won’t be able to get a backyard for them until I move ;/
Kristjana says
1. I decided I wanted to transition from cheap plastic Tupperware to nice glass ones. However I keep procrastinating going through the many drawers of containers I have.. Haha. I really should just get rid of it all, especially since I think I have ones missing lids etc. I want to have less clutter!
2. I have slowly started to go through my clothes but want to do another big clean out too! I’m really bad at keeping all my activewear.. even though I know I have too much lol.
3. I’d be down for a fitness challenge!
4. Have you considered making your own kombucha? I don’t either because I’m too scared haha but I would love to see you blog about it if you did! Maybe one day I’ll try.
Taralynn McNitt says
Omg…I have this one cabinet that used to be so organized with my Tupperware! It’s a massacre now hahaha! I need to declutter that too.
SAME! I got rid of all the patterned pants this time.
I actually have all the stuff to make my own! I just have to brave it now.
Emma says
Hi Taralynn,
I didn’t put anything new around in my house but i’m thinking about painting my wall in the living room. It’s light pink and after two years I feel like it needs a change 🙂 !
I cleaned up my closet a couple of weeks ago and my next challenge will be my bikini fitness competition this saturday.
Love reading your posts and as u say, sometimes you need to take off your time off the grid to find back focus and energy.
Love,
Emma
Taralynn McNitt says
Light pink sounds pretty, but I can definitely relate with feeling a need for change.
Good luck on your competition! That is amazing and so much hard work! Good for you girl! Hang in there 🙂
P.S…just looked at your Instagram! Girl, you should be sponsored by body building! holy moly!!! You’re going to KILL it this weekend! I can’t wait to follow along!
xo xo
Zoe says
First, please don’t paint your table! I love the dark color! Especially since everything else is light, I love the contrast. But that is me…. So I guess what I mean is, “do whatever you want, but a stranger in Missouri is going to secretly wish you didn’t paint it if you do.” 😉
I put off things around my house all the time. Sometimes it’s laziness or forgetfulness. Other times I’m waiting for the money to do it without using money we don’t have. Patience is rough.
As for my closet….maybe. probably. But nothing specific comes to mind. I don’t have a ton of clothes, but I’m getting bored with them and I’m ready to introduce some new items.
I have been so awful at fitness lately. But I like seeing your fitness challenges. Maybe it will inspire me.
Anywho, I love seeing your healthy meals, but I’m secretly waiting to see how you handle food if/when you have kids. That’s my struggle. My kids are mildly picky. I refuse to cook two meals, but it is also extremely rough emotionally sometimes to spend an hour cooking something at least somewhat healthy and then watch them turn their noses up at it.
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Zoe!
Thanks for your input! 🙂 I may end up just sanding it and staining it a lighter wood! We’ll see. Seems like a lot of work haha
Patience is rough. Agreed.
I know what you mean! It’s always fun to introduce some new items! I may do it too often, which is why I was drowning in my own closet.
Hahahaha you’ll have to wait about 7 more years for that blog post! lol When I used to nanny, I’d make “kid food” but super healthy. I think cutting foods into fun shapes, or getting them involved in the cooking helps a ton! Maybe give them three options to choose from that they can cook with you and get them excited about eating it! 😀
Lina says
Have you been putting off anything around your house?
– Going through my bathroom and doing a very intense deep clean as well as throwing out products I don’t use/don’t like anymore. Even tho my apartment is small, it’s so easy for it to get messy
Are there clothes in your closet that you haven’t worn in over a year?
– omg plenty! but it’s hard to give up when they have sentimental value to them
Are you up for another fitness challenge?
– yes!
Question for you, I don’t get to see my boyfriend very often during the work week because we have such opposite schedules so weekends are sacred and I can sometimes get annoyed if he tries to do work during our time. How do you handle Kyle being in a separate room away from you focused on work when y’all could be spending time together doing non-work things? Of course I support my man but also I find the time we spend together to be so precious.
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Lina!
I need to do that with my products too!
I think the sentimental value to them is hard and totally get that! Just think about someone else who could be wearing them:)
Yay! glad you’re in!
That’s a good question. It’s not like that every weekend, but when it is, it’s ok! I get to focus on working on my projects while he’s working and we still go out on walks, watch movies at night, and hang out when we aren’t working. I think the anxiety that comes with not being able to finish work is a tough one, and allowing him/yourself to get caught up on work is beneficial. When I have a ton of work to do, he respects my space as well and will walk the dogs while I work. I think it’s all about support and teamwork in relationships. If you know that the work he’s doing is going to benefit him, then I’d let him do his thing. I think if he was in another room playing video games, or on his phone constantly and not spending time with you, that would be a whole different case. Just make plans to go on a walk together, go grab dinner at the end of the night, or something fun on the weekend! Sometimes jobs require extra hours and supporting each other makes it so much easier! Sometimes when Kyle has a ton of work to do on the weekend and I don’t, I’ll usually make plans with my friends instead:)
Jennifer says
Hahahaha I’m so bad at putting everything off in my apartment… I need to work on that
I know there are a few pieces I haven’t worn… I’ve been slowly picking a few pieces out here and there and selling them on Poshmark. Seeing your photos makes me want to get rid of everything!! The fact you went from 3 closets to 1 is AWESOME!
Heck yeah I’m up for a fitness challenge!
Taralynn McNitt says
It happens 😀
I can’t believe how much I got rid of this past year. It’s insane!
So glad you’re in for the challenge!
Kelsey W. says
Hey Taralynn! There are definitely a ton of things in my closet that I haven’t worn in over a year. My weight tends to fluctuate, so there’s all sorts of clothing depending on how things are going at the time lol. So speaking of a fitness challenge–there’s my motivation! To fit back in my “skinny” clothes! haha bring it! 🙂
I’ve been meaning to ask–how’s your mom doing? I remember you saying she had surgery a few weeks ago. Hope she’s doing ok!
I hope you have a great week! xo Kelsey
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Kelsey!
🙂 I definitely know how that goes! I feel like I always shop to suit my fluncuation lol
Oh, and the fitness challenge is happening! But a fun & laid back one!
Yup! she’s doing great! It wasn’t anything big or serious! Thank you for asking!
jordan @ dancing for donuts says
okay 1) i’m loving all of your vibrant food photos so much lately!! 2) how do you make a toaster waffle look so GOOD?! and 3) a bagel and lox will always be the ultimate combo!!! i’ve still yet to try anything kite hill, but people rave about their stuff!! may need to make a trip to whole foods soon…
Taralynn McNitt says
haha! I definitely think it’s the brand! 🙂 The Van waffles are out of this world.
This was the first Kite Hill product I’ve tried and I loved it! 🙂
Jenn says
I’ve been throwing one thing out for one thing I bring in with my dresses this year. All summer long, all I wear is dresses except for sleeping (ha). And while I was still wearing some of them, they were old and looking worn so I’ve been tossing them as I replace them.
I did a purge last year of the stuff I hadn’t worn in a long time though.
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Jenn!
That is what I’m doing too! 🙂 With my tank tops mostly lol
The purge feels good!
Anonymous says
Where will you be for two and half weeks?
Taralynn McNitt says
Hawaii
Rayna says
I love the rug you bought from Target!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you, Rayna!
Steph says
Love these pics! I can never get enough of these glimpses into your life. I’m glad you find blogging worthwhile. 🙂 I work an office job, and once I leave at 3 pm, I don’t have to think about it. I cannot imagine how stressful it is to ALWAYS have access to work.
Also, want to come do some interior design to my place? 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you, Steph!
That makes me smile!
Um, sure! I’ll be there! 😉
Amanda says
love seeing your cute decor and OMG that omelet looks amazing
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you, Amanda!
B says
Why is your quinoa black?
Taralynn McNitt says
It’s tri-colored quinoa lol It comes in different colors
Susie @ Mile High Dreamers says
You seriously need to make an ebook called “Taralynn’s Epic Salad Guide”! I don’t know how you do it, but your salads are so on point. I have the worst salad imagination and it makes it so I never want to eat them. TEACH ME.
Also, Kite Hill is probably one of my favorite brands in the world. I literally can just eat that chive spread with crackers. YUM.
I’ve been wanting to do more pictures of us around our house, and I’ve definitely been putting it off for oh… 2 years now? Whoops!
We have a teeny tiny house with TEENY tiny closets so I barely own any clothes, yet I STILL have items I haven’t worn in forever. I guess it doesn’t matter how much or how little you have, there’s still that problem!
And I’m always up for a fitness challenge! We’ve got 90 days until Barbados and that’s when we kick it into high gear! Bring on the abs!
Taralynn McNitt says
Lol that would be a fun one to create! 🙂
I’m OBSESSSSSED with salads.
I can’t believe it took me so long to try it! It’s legit and better than actual cream cheese!
Lol that is the truth! Always a problem for sure!
Girl, you’re already rockin’ the abs!! xo xo xo
Sara says
Your photos just gave me the push and motivation to do a closet cleanout myself.
Taralynn McNitt says
The process isn’t fun, but it’s worth it in the end!
Kam says
I tried to blog for a week and quit because of how much work it was. Thank you for always giving us something fun to read and sharing your life with readers!
Taralynn McNitt says
Well thank you, Kam!
Tammy says
I love your idea of running one mile a day. I can get down with that and I am very ready for a fitness challenge!
I’m getting married in six months and I need to get back in shape.
Taralynn McNitt says
Congrats on your engagement! 🙂 You’re going to look beautiful no matter what, but I’m glad you’re up for a challenge!
Eve says
I saw you at yoga! I was too scared to say hi!
Taralynn McNitt says
hahaha don’t ever be afraid to say hi!!!
Christine says
Thanks for all the hard work you put into your blog! It’s SO MUCH WORK, especially without a team! Your blog looks effortless, which is always a sign of someone working hard behind the scenes. Really good work — thank you for sharing your life with us!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you so much Christine!!!!!
Charity says
A couple months ago, I listened to the book “The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up” by Marie Kondo. I had heard so many good things about it but didn’t figure it would be anything “life changing”… Well, I was wrong. haha That book was so insightful and made me question everything I own. (A super easy listen as well) Not that I’m trying to be a minimalist or anything, but I guess I didn’t realize how much crap I have in my house that doesn’t really make me happy. My closet was one of the things that was a disaster!! Loved the post as always! 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Charity!
I’ve heard great things about that book!
Thanks for stopping by to read! xo
Tara Roadway says
Hey Tara!
I loved the closet cleanse. I recently read The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up – a Japanese style of cleansing your home. It made all the difference in my home and my life. I took a week off from work and did a staycation so I could tidy up my home and get rid of things that no longer brought me joy. I seriously feel so much lighter and more comfortable in my home now because of it. Just an idea for any future projects! 🙂
Thank you for your honesty and beautiful creations. You inspire me every single day. Also, your spring pictures make me insanely jealous. I live in Minnesota and we don’t even have buds on the trees yet!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Tara!
Someone literally just recommended that book! May have to check it out.
And thank you so much for the kind words!! I hope you get warmth soon!
Brittney Caughron says
Do you keep your dogs indoors and do they shed?? I have a six month old rescue puppy and she sheds like CRAZY, but I can’t leave her in the backyard because she likes to dig. 🙁 Loved your post! A lot of inspiration for my meal preps! Thank you!! 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
My dogs don’t shed and they are always inside unless we are out walking. Just get one of those coat brushes and brush her out daily! That’ll help 🙂
Kelli says
Have you been putting off anything around your house?- Actually we put off a lot of stuff when we first moved in to prioritize building our gigantic fence. So, now that spring seems to have arrived (knock on wood) we are hammering out project after project! I’m so excited!
Are there clothes in your closet that you haven’t worn in over a year?- I started using Poshmark and it makes it so easy to weed things out that I actually don’t have anything in my closet that I don’t wear (except for those random dresses for funerals or weddings).
Are you up for another fitness challenge?- I’ll have to modify due to my pregnancy, but I’ll do a daily walk for a purpose. I really like the concept behind this!
Also, LOVE THE NUT THINS! When I saw you posted those 2 flavors I was like “Yepp, they’re catching on”. My issue is they are so easy to eat, I can polish off a box in 1 sitting!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Kelli!
You guys are doing the fence yourselves? That’s amazing! And hard work!
I wish I could do Poshmark but I’m too lazy lol
My fitness challenge will be easy to modify because it’s all at home stuff! Glad you’re in!
hahahahaa try putting peanut butter on the cinnamon ones and cream cheese and lox on the savory ones!
Jordan says
I love that you are running a mile a day and dedicating it to a struggle. It is so much more empowering than focusing on the typical aspects of fitness society puts in our brains (i.e. calories, how we’ll look, etc).
I actually do something similar during marathons – I would dedicate one mile to a loved one or cause. I actually got a symbolic tattoo because it means so much to me and makes me feel confident and purpose-driven!
Keep up the great work!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Jordan!
It makes running so much more enjoyable!
I lvoe that you do that in marathons. Also, KUDOS to you! xo xo
Sarah says
Hey Taralynn!
I LOVE your blog and read the recaps every week! Where did you get your vegan cream cheese? I like to eliminate dairy where possible and this sounds delicious! I use the Thomas everything bagel thins with avocado, red onion, and roma tomato, but adding cream cheese would be so good. I didn’t like the vegan ones I’d tried so far (tofutti and Trader Joe’s) so I’m curious about this brand!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Sarah!
So happy to hear that you read my recaps!!
I get it at Earth Fare, but I know Sprouts and Whole Foods also carries it! This was the best tasting “cream cheese” I’VE EVER HAD! I tried the daiya one and it was bad. But daiya cheesecake is awesome !
Michelle says
Love your posts and just wanted to thank you for the Your Super recommendation! I bought the Forever Beautiful and Skinny Protein powders and they have seriously upped my smoothie game! I guess it’s just the perfect mix in each. Also, I’ve tried a ton of Vegan and Non-Vegan protein powders and they all have a funny taste to them, but the Your Super Skinny Protein does not. Seriously I’ve been making my best smoothies ever with this stuff. Thanks again!
Taralynn McNitt says
That is so great! I’m a big fan of their products! Glad you’re loving it!!
Harriet says
Love reading your blog to unwind after a long day on the road for work (1000km today). Your reasons to run are amazing, I use running to de-stress from work and to clear the mind. Wow what a clean out of your closet, I try to do a closet clean out every 6 months, it’s so amazing what you can accumulate in a short time, I donate it all to different charitie shops around town. Currently putting off digging over the vegetable garden to plant winter vegetables, I really need to do it otherwise I will have to buy them, I worked out last year I saved about $200 over winter by growing my own vegetables. Oh yes please another fitness challenge would be amazing, I lost 5kg on your last one! Sounds like your boys (dogs) are doing so well with their training so awesome!! So nice of Kyle to bring you beautiful flowers. I Hope you have a great week!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks so much, Harriet!
I agree! All the clothes I love gets lost in the madness of them all!
That is amazing you saved that much! So awesome! 🙂
WOW! that makes me so happy to hear! I can’t wait to share the next one!
xo xo
Dorothy says
Noooo! Don’t paint the table! It’s so pretty!
Question: Do you have any supplemental lighting for your herb garden? I see they are near a window, what type of sun are they getting from that? I ask because I love using fresh herbs in my cooking, and it really bums me out that I can only grow herbs outside for part of the year. I’d like to grow them inside, but worried I won’t have enough light.
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you, Dorothy!
I have all the ones that need full sun outside, and then just a couple that needs shade inside on the wall by the window! 🙂 Just look at the label when you purchase them to see which ones you can have inside and which ones outside. I’m sure there is a light you can buy for winter though!
Kristin says
I love all your dairy-free recipes and swaps. I’m trying to find the root of some eczema/skin issues and I’m trying to eliminate dairy for a bit to see if that helps at all. Do you have a post or shopping list of all your favorite dairy-free items/brands (milk, cheese, etc)?
Have you been putting off anything around your house?
It’s the little things for example our doors don’t have peepholes so we bought some probably over a year ago and still haven’t added them!!!
Are there clothes in your closet that you haven’t worn in over a year?
Yes! Your clean out has inspired me! I just ordered some basics from Pact organic (http://fbuy.me/gFbdQ) and I should really try to clean out at least 2 pieces for each new item!!
Are you up for another fitness challenge?
Yes definitely!!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Kristin!
I had the worst skin condition on the back on my legs for YEARS!! They looked like goosebumps and since giving up dairy/gluten in September, they’re almost gone!
I don’t have any post anything, but I share a lot of my faves in all of my weekly recaps! 🙂
Thats a great idea! I’m going to do that from now one too. Plus, less clothes means less laundry!
Brittany says
AHHH I absolutely LOVE how colorful and vibrant all of your photos are 🙂 They always make me so happy!
Taralynn McNitt says
Awww thank you so much!!!
Mae says
Hi Tara!
I am a super long time reader like back in Tumblr days when you were first starting out. I love seeing how you’ve grown and every time you post, it is such a joy to read! I was curious how did you get your taste for healthy food. I am struggling with eating healthy because I find it so drab. 🙁 I don’t really know what to do. I dislike fast food and that was never a problem I had, but switching potato chips for kale chips and stuff is difficult.
Thanks for any help!
Mae
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Mae!!
Thank you so much for the kind words and positivity!
I think you have to find what you live, play with new ways of cooking, start grilling your veggies, use new seasonings, and the more healthy food you eat, the more you’ll like it! 🙂 And not everyone likes kale chips lol
Amanda says
Don’t paint the table it’s beautiful the way it is! Have you tried the Kodiak waffles?? Found them at Costco they are amazing with some peanut butter on them. 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Amanda!
I’ve had their waffle mix but not their boxed ones yet!