Good morning, and happy Monday! I just finishing making my to-do list for the day, and I feel more motivated than ever to knock everything off the list. I have found that my days are much more productive when I create a list of goals and expectations before starting anything. Of course, my recap blog was first on that list. My goal is to blog every single day this week to keep up with my 25 blogs in January. It’s going to be hard because I’ll be out of town on Saturday-Tuesday, but I plan to write in advance to have a few blogs all scheduled to go out. I mentioned on my Instagram last night that I’ll be heading to Denver, Colorado this weekend. You guys have sent me so many excellent recommendations so far, but if you have any you’d like to share, please let me know in the comments.
PS HAPPY BACHELOR MONDAY!
Let’s start with Wednesday because that’s where the last recap post ended. I had a giant jar of chocolate Love Grown cereal, almonds, pistachios, and coconut shreds with unsweetened almond milk for breakfast. Sometimes I eat the most random things, but they do the trick. The weather was unbelievable, so after the walk with the dogs, I decided to turn on my Bachelor podcasts and go for an hour walk outside.
When I got back, I was hungry and needed something to cool me off. I decided to have a strawberry banana protein shake for lunch. It had frozen strawberries, frozen banana, unsweetened almond milk, and one scoop of vanilla plant-based protein powder.
They do this when they’re hungry. 😂 I can’t handle them sometimes. Are your dogs weird, too?
I managed to go to the gym four times this week with Kyle. I walk the treadmill and listen to music or play candy crush.
After my Thursday morning walk, I had a bowl of oatmeal with almond butter and paleo muesli. This is one of my favorite go-to breakfast because it’s so easy to make and it keeps me full until late afternoon.
After watching a few episodes of Marie Condo’s Netflix series, I had to get myself up and clean out the office closet. This is a space that I’ve been putting off for so long. It was filled with old notebooks, magazines, photos, scrapbook paper, old boxes, tons of receipts, paperwork, and random things I’ve collected over the years. This was my hiding spot for all of the “junk.” Even though I never had to look at it, knowing that it was there gave me anxiety. See all of the stuff on the floor? Well, I got rid of ALL of it. It feels good to have all of that out of the house. Decluttering is an amazing reminder of why we don’t need to buy “stuff.” I can’t believe it’s been fifteen days since buying anything. I’ve made two necessary trips grocery store, but that’s it. I have a post all typed up and ready to go this week about my thoughts so far!
I spent the rest of Thursday working on the blog and then ended the evening at the gym.
I started my Friday morning with a dog walk and a chocolate banana protein shake. The shake had one frozen banana, one cup of almond milk, and two tablespoons of chocolate hemp protein powder.
On Friday evening, I did a quick house clean, made delicious fudgy/paleo/vegan brownies, and then headed to the gym with Kyle. We started the show Escape at Dannemora, and it was awesome! We finished it all in one weekend (imagine that.)
I was up bright and early on Saturday morning. After walking the dogs, I had a bowl of protein oats. I made regular gluten-free oats and mixed in blueberries, three tablespoons of chocolate hemp protein, and a tablespoon of almond butter. This was such a delicious combo, and it reminded me of Chocolate Malt O Meal, which I’ve been craving for like a year now. I skipped out on tennis because it was way too cold, and snowing at one point! I decided to tag along with my mom while she got her hair done.
Afterward, we headed to Whole Foods so I could pick up some lettuce and protein powder. We were both ready for another cup of coffee, so we stopped at Reid’s because they have the BEST coffee!
I spent the rest of the day glued to the couch writing and planning the Colorado itinerary.
My parents asked if we wanted to meet them for some wine and appetizers at the Garden Cafe, and because it’s my favorite place ever, I was totally up for that.
I woke up a bit later on Sunday morning and enjoyed my coffee while Kyle and I finished up our show.
My project for the weekend was to clean out my art supply boxes. I ended up throwing out a ton of dried up paint and putting all of my supplies into these leftover bins from the office cleanout. I should have taken photos of the boxes I had stacked up in the garage with paint supplies, but somehow managed to organize all of the supplies down to this. I haven’t painted in a while because of the overwhelming mess of boxes, but now I think I’ll get back to painting soon 😊 The key to organizing is doing one project a day. You don’t want to burn yourself out by trying to tackle the organization all at once. Over time, things will start looking noticeably neat.
I did an entire “What I Ate Today” on my Instagram story, but of course, I’ll share it here too! If you liked seeing the What I ate in a day insta-story edition, let me know, and I’ll do more.
For breakfast, I had gluten-free toast with strawberry jam, avocados, mangos, and a side of oranges and blueberries. I had so many people wondering how the jelly and avocado combo tasted, but I’m telling you, it’s incredible! I tried it for the first time at Vintage Coffee & Cafe last weekend and was blown away. Avocado tastes just as good with sweet ingredients.
For lunch, I had an Artisan lettuce blend with balsamic dressing, black peppered slivered almonds, mango slices, grape tomatoes, avocado, and rice. I also had a powerful shot that had ginger, lemon, and wheatgrass.
I usually have tea or a cappuccino in the afternoon. I decided to go with lemon tea. I drink about two cups of Lemon Ginger tea a day!
For dinner, I had roasted brussels sprouts and carrots with a salad! You better believe I had one of the delicious brownies for dessert! I topped it with So Delicious brand coconut whipped topping, and it tasted like chocolate cake.
Kyle and I watched the Eagles games, and then headed to bed early! ❤️ It wasn’t a crazy exciting weekend, but it was still a good one!
Questions for you!
- Do you have any Denver recommendations?
- What spot in your house do you need to organize/declutter?
- Describe your weekend in one word.
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says
I need to organise my closet and my designated junk drawer – especially the latter! Whenever I don’t know where to put something, in the junk drawer it goes. Such a bad habit! Which, I’m going to tackle it this year! 🙂
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Taralynn McNitt says
Well at least you have a designated spot for it 😊
Brittany says
For brunch one day – Linger in the Lower Highlands district.
Root Down or City o’ City is great for Vegan food!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you for the suggestions!!
Jenna says
I need to organize my hall closet, vanity, and bathroom for sure. Oh and my laundry room which looks like a tornado hit… seriously.
My weekend in one word: Blur.
Taralynn McNitt says
I feel ya, girl!! Just remember, one at a time 😊
Christina says
In general, I don’t love the food options in Denver, but go to Sassafras for brunch- it is delicious and they do mimosa or Bloody Mary flights! Go to the one on 26th street- it is very cute.
Also, for dinner, Mizuna is exceptional! Hope you enjoy your trip.
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks for the suggestions!!
Anonymous says
Who are you going with?
Taralynn McNitt says
My brother and I are meeting there!
Brittany says
Oh my gosh you and Kyle look so cute with all of the lights by the Garden Cafe☺️Looks like you had a productive week! I am right there with ya on the organizing and decluttering. Yesterday I worked on our coat closet.. which didn’t only have coats😂I managed to get rid of a lot but I think I need to buy some organizers / a drawer system.
Hope you guys have fun in Denver! I have only been there once and it was for around 4 hours.. so I can’t offer much help.
Taralynn McNitt says
Awww, thanks Brittany!!
The coat closet always seems to be the one that keeps piling up! Now I need to go do mine. Thanks for that inspo!!
xo xo xo
Rachel says
Can you please do a meetup!!!
Taralynn McNitt says
I will when I come back in the summer! 🙂
Whitney says
I always wondered if you’d make it out this way! Denver is a fun city with lots to see and do. It looks like several people have already recommended vegan/vegetarian friendly places, so I’ll suggest places to visit/walk around (if you have time). Larimer Square, RiNo, the Highlands, Old South Pearl Street and Cherry Creek are all great places to eat, shop and explore. Also, Washington Park is a HUGE park and a very popular attraction for lots of locals so if you have nice weather while you’re here it would be a great place to go for a walk 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Whitney!
I’m so excited to finally go. I’ve been to the Denver airport as a tease like five times, so I’m fINALLY STEPPING FOOT ON DENVER SOIL!
I appreciate all of those recommendations!! I’ll be googling them all and adding them to the list!
Carly says
Lots of Denver recommendations 🙂 I’m a Colorado native and think we have such an amazing selection of restaurants and fun things to do!
Restaurants–Root Down (for organic, seasonal, flavorful dishes), The Denver Biscuit Company (for delicious sandwiches and biscuits), Steubens (for classic comfort food), and Little Man Ice Cream (for the BEST homemade ice cream).
As far as attractions go: Denver’s 16th St Mall offers is pedestrian friendly and also offers a free mall shuttle, The Tattered Cover Bookstore is a cozy one of a kind stop, Union Station is lovely for photos/dining/shopping. If you can get outside of Downtown Denver it’s worth getting up to Red Rocks Amphitheatre which is a stunning stop by itself but also offers beginner hiking trails.
For coffee try Huckleberry Roasters in Denver 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Carly!
I’ve been wanting to visit Denver for so long because of the selection of restaurants and activities! I’ll be going back in the summer for some hiking!
Thanks for the restaurant recs and attractions. I’m planning out the itinerary today so it’s so helpful!
♥️ ☕️
Lindsay says
I’m definitely going to have to try this strawberry jam/avocado toast!!! I’m intrigued! I did have avocado toast with arugula, pomegranate seeds and balsamic last weekend that was AMAZING!
Taralynn McNitt says
It’s so good!!!! Oh and that sounds like the perfect way to each avocado toast!
Melissa says
Hi Tara,
I live in Denver so thought I’d add my suggestions 🙂 You must try Root Down on 33rd Avenue – it is regarded as one of the best vegan restaurants in town! I think you will love it. Also, Snooze as our famous breakfast place – the menu has a ton of variety and lots of healthy options (porridge tastes amazing and I add peanut butter to it :)) Are you going to try skiing or snowboarding?
Have a great week! <3
Melissa
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Melissa!
I’ve been hearing that so I’ll definitely put it on top of our list! Thanks for your tips, and yes! We are going skiing outside of Denver for a day! 🙂
Esther Rowan says
if you ever want to make dairy free homemade whipped cream I have the perfect recipe!
Taralynn McNitt says
WELL SEND IT OVER!
Anonymous says
Dairy isn’t vegan my friend. Try, try and try again.
Taralynn McNitt says
lol, what? No one said it was.
Tanya says
does the So Delicious coconut whip cream have any coconut flavor? My husband is dairy free but does not like coconut at all.
I need to clean out closet again, and also bathroom. Worked on cleaning out the basement this weekend. That feels really good.
Have fun on your trip!!
Taralynn McNitt says
Not at all! My dad and boyfriend both love it, but hate coconut flavor! Nice job getting those cleaning jobs done!
Seeking Stephanie Travels says
I’m Denver, try Linger! The menu is awesome and the location has an interesting backstory. Enjoy!
Taralynn McNitt says
Someone else mentioned that as well!
Taylor White says
I moved to Denver three years ago from Iowa! I agree on Sassafras for brunch! (On 26th st). They have the best Bloody Mary and mimosas flights.
Root Down is a great option for a vegan (and also non-vegan) restaurant.
If you are trying to get a workout in, you have to check out Fierce45. There are several different locations. It’s a really awesome Pilates class that will kick your a** in 45 min.
If you have time, it’s worth going to Red Rocks Amphitheater to just check it out (the restaurant there is not very good tho, FYI).
Driving up lookout mountain is a nice, quick drive that isn’t too far from Denver and there is a quick little museum on top (Buffalo bill) and amaazzing views. It also has a cute little gift shop and cafe at the top too.
The coors tour in golden is just ok in my opinion. Usually there is a crazy long wait (which is standing outside) and you only get a tiny free cup of beer.
Avalanche (hockey) games are always a great time!
I also recommend Linger for dinner (tapas style restaurant) or Izakaya Den (sushi).
Snooze is another place (breakfast) totally worth checking out. (The OMG French toast is to die for). There’s usually a wait but it’s so good.
Hope you have a great trip!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Taylor!
Thank you so much for all of the recommendations! We for sure will try visiting red rocks. I’ve been googling all your recs! Lookout mountain sounds awesome.
again thank you thank you thank you for the guide!!
Haley says
Do you ever do the celery juice in the morning?
Taralynn McNitt says
I dont lol
Jordyn says
When you’re in Denver I would definitely recommend visiting Red Rocks. It’s an amazing outdoor concert venue that has an impressive hall of fame, a restaurant, and some hiking trails around! Union Station is worth a visit, too. (If you visit Red Rocks you should also drive into Golden, CO and stop at Bean Fosters for some coffee- they have oat milk!)
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you, Jordyn!! We will try to do that 🙂 Thanks for the coffee rec 😊
Tess says
Welcome to Denver! I’ve been reading your blog for eight years!
Taralynn McNitt says
Ahhhhh thank you!!!!
EJay says
All of my vegan/vegetarian friends love City O’ City and Watercourse Foods! Enjoy 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
That’s what I keep hearing!!
Hailey says
What do you usually order at coffee shops?
Taralynn McNitt says
A cappuccino with oat/coconut/or almond milk:) And sometimes I’ll do a black coffee.
Michelle says
Do you ever shop at Trader Joes?
Taralynn McNitt says
No, but I definitely need to! I wish they had one closer to where I live.
Katie Meshko says
Girl I love this post! So encouraging. I also really need to watch that Tidying up show. I have like 2 rooms in my house that I need to declutter and a basement that desperately needs it! My weekend is one word would be dreamy! My husband took me on a surprise birthday trip to Seneca lake for wine tasting. It was great! 🙂 I wrote a blog post on it here, http://www.meshkomoments.com/25th-birthday-getaway-seneca-lake/. I have never been to Denver , but I heard it’s beautiful! I hope you have the best time.
XO, Katie
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks so much, Katie!!
That show will make you want to get up and clean within the first twenty minutes.
What a great husband!!! I can’t wait to check out your blog 🙂
xo xo
Cait says
Definitely go hike the Manitou incline!!
Taralynn McNitt says
In the winter? lol I may add it to my summer trip to Denver!!
Carol says
The Manitou Incline is in Colorado Springs – that’s a 90 minute (or more depending on traffic) drive from Denver. It’s a great workout and fun in winter or summer, though! Highly recommend!
Taralynn McNitt says
Might save it for summer!! Thanks 🙂 I did google it and it looks amazing though!!
Lila says
Crepes n Crepes – for breakfast..it is on 16th Street Mall (the main street in Denver)
The Market at Larimer Square – for coffee and amazingly good, home made cake slices (Larimer Street in general has lots of restaurants and boutiques)
Tattered Cover bookstore’s coffee shop -for coffee in a huge but old style bookstore.
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you!! & extra thanks for the coffee rec!!
That bookstore sounds so cool!!
Mirna says
Probably my closet. It is not about decluttering, it is more about organizing it better. I moved to USA from Europe recently so I don’t have lots of stuff, but that closet is the only storage space I have, so everything is in it: clothes,shoes, sheets, towels… Everything!!!! So I just need to organize a little better, because it is quite annoying. Any advice???
Taralynn McNitt says
It’s hard to say when I don’t know what the closet looks like. If you can, get a rack to put at the bottom of the closet for your shoes. Hang your clothing on a pole above it, and then on top of that fold the towels and sheet.
Kelly says
Hi Taralynn!
1. That’s so awesome! What brings you out to Denver??
My recommendations would be Snooze for brunch at any location, it’s a bit of a wait on the weekends but well worth it! Sassafrass is also awesome and less busy. My favorite coffee places are Novo coffee in the Highlands or Atlas coffee in Littleton (Atlas has Oat milk 😉 I have so many other places I could recommend but I’ll stop there!
2. I definitely need to clean off my desk…. it’s the only place I can never keep organized.
3. My weekend was…. social!
Btw…. loving the 25 days of blogging!
Kelly
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Kelly!
Thanks so much 😃
My brother is going to be out there for work, so I’m meeting up with him a few days in advance to go skiing and explore Denver!
Thank you for those suggestions.
Have a great week, and go get that desk done! xo 😊