It’s really cold today. I don’t mind 50 degree weather, but the sunshine better be present and there better be blue skies. I’m not kidding when I say it’s been raining for eight days. There has been small little breaks and I’ve seen the sunshine a couple of times, but hours later, it starts to rain again. It’s not helping my mood; that’s for sure.
It’s been a while since I’ve done any updating, so I’m going to just do the typical football Saturday post (recap while I watch Iowa play football).
I picked up my phone this morning to see what the date was and started laughing…
I really don’t know where to start with this post because I haven’t updated in over a week. I’m just going to post some photos and hope they’re in order.
LAST SUNDAY: I took my mom to Cafe Monte. She had never gone before and it is one of my favorite breakfast spots in Charlotte. I normally get the same thing when I go there, but I need to stop playing it safe at fantastic restaurants and step outside of the box. I ordered the Quiche Lorraine and it was absolutely sinful. It was creamy with a crisp crust and each bite got better and better. It was filled with ham, bacon, and spinach. I also had a little side salad. I was iffy about having a salad for breakfast, but it was good with the Quiche. This is what happens when you explore something new.
Even though the weather has been horrific, I’ve been keeping up with my workouts. I’ve been keeping my jogs light and my miles slower.
I do have some recipes to blog soon! I promise.
Grumples has been getting 3-4 mile walks everyday after I finish my runs.
And he keeps me company while I work.
I was disgusting after Monday’s run. It was humid and on the verge of pouring. The skies were making me nervous, but I was determined to finish my miles.
I promised myself that I wouldn’t ignore working out and eating right this football season. I have officially lost 15 of my winter pounds and I feel awesome.
After I showered off, I drove into the storm for some sushi and juice!
I love Earthfare’s sushi. I get the California, smoked salmon, and crunchy crab.
Even though we BOTH hate six am workouts, we did it. Helps me loosen up before a test.
The worst part about rainy weather is all the baths! The ground has nasty oils that get all up in grumples hair, so I have to keep rinsing him off. The other night, while I was trying to brush him, he hid in the bathtub.
I got a massage on Thursday to try to relieve some stress and stiffness.
Later in the day, I was doing weights and I’m not sure what happened, but I ended up losing my grip and dropping a fifteen pound weight on my ribcage…ouch. It’s all bruised and just goes to show I need to build more muscle to prevent this 🙂 I bruise easy, so the injury isn’t that bad. You can flick my arm and I’ll bruise ten minutes later.
Lots of homework, yoga, and candy crush this week. That score though…
It was so rainy this morning. I had to skip the outdoors and run at the gym. Boring! When I got back, I took Grumples out for his walk because I needed to tire him out before the Iowa game.
Btw, this juice is awesome. Pricey, but awesome.
I wish the weather would reverse back to what it was a couple weeks ago.
At least it’ll be back to fall next week.
I am going to be in D.C. most of October and I can’t wait to get all the shots of fall.
Tomorrow is the last day for the #myoutdoorscharlotte contest.
I’m pretty dang happy about my second pumpkin of the Fall ????? it’s been a rainy day, but that didn’t stop me from exploring the farmers market this afternoon! #CLT #myoutdoorscharlotte@orvischarlotte @orvis & don’t forget to enter the #myoutdoorscharlotte $100 @orvis gift card giveaway! Upload a photo with #myoutdoorscharlotte and tag me! $1.00 will be donated to the #ncwf wildlife habitat restoration project benefitting the Catawba river! (My favorite spot) Also, bring your phone into @orvischarlotte , show them your entry and receive 20% off a full priced item! I’m loving all of your entries so far! Ends October 4th!?????? #CLT #cltnc #cltfashion #orvis #giveaway
Exploring is one of my favorite things to do.
Spirit animal status.
I found the best thing in the world yesterday. They are chickpea and red pepper veggie fries and I found them at Earthfare. I will write more about them later! I plan on buying the other flavors. They are almost sinful and taste better than the oven baked sweet potato fries. I had a crab cake and peas with them.
I know this post was all over the place and I haven’t been doing a very good job keeping up with my blog, but my life has been pretty hectic the past couple of days and I’m trying to become the best version of me possible. No one is perfect and it’s ok to take some time for yourself.
In good news…the DINO tank has been transformed into a dino sweater! They have been going fast 🙂
www.simplytaralynncollection.com There are a lot of new things up for you guys to look at.
Alright, back to football! Enjoy your weekend.
Tori Farber says
I enjoyed your update, and it didn’t seem too unorganized to me! Grumples is so cute. I think I need a dog like him. I’m also visiting Charlotte in 6 days so I’m hoping that stinkin’ rain goes away. Those chickpea and red pepper fries look heavenly.Also, congrats on dropping those winter pounds! That takes a lot of dedication and hard work. I am working on dropping the last 5 stubborn pounds to get to my healthy/happy weight. Keep up the hard work!
xoxo Tori
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you Tori!! It’ll be sunny by the time you get here. 🙂
emily says
yummmm that quiche looks DELICIOUS. Jealous you’re gonna be in DC. I haven’t got in almost 10 years. I’m a history nerd, so that place is a good travel spot for me. Since you’re going for most of October you said, are you taking online classes then? I find online classes really hard since you need to diligence to keep up on your own every day. Good for you girl!
Taralynn McNitt says
Yup. Online classes until I’m instate. It was a last minute decision with my advisors. The online classes are pretty hard and I focus more when I’m there (visual person), so I’m doing really well, but it’ll be better once I’m on-campus.
Alisha says
Are you doing online classes? Or taking a break from school?
Taralynn McNitt says
No break from school! I have all online classes right now. Until I’m instate, it’s the cheapest route for me. I was going to do on campus but I’m saving thousands by getting some other classes out of the way online while I wait for residency 🙂 I do not like online classes at all, so hard to focus, so I’m excited for on campus to start.
Alisha says
Yeah I feel ya. When I was in college I took online classes during the summer so I could have a lighter course load during the school year. I liked the online ones due to the fact I could still vacation and travel but it was harder to learn that way. I took 12 credits one summer and was even more swamped than during the year since I was also traveling during that time. I also just like the classroom vibe. I like being around other students and having a definite schedule 🙂 best of luck to you!
Taralynn McNitt says
I 100% agree!
Logan says
Veggie Fries are the best! Addicting, except I haven’t found a great way to reheat for leftovers…Been following your blog and posts for years. Keep em coming 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Have you tried putting them back in the oven? That might work!
& THANK YOU LOGAN!:) xo
Hilary says
Ahh I feel ya with the walks and then having to practically give your dog a bath everyday! My pup is a golden retriever and he is just way to big to be giving baths to every day haha, not to mention the mess that results in his shaking of the water!
Taralynn McNitt says
Yes, you definitely feel the pain!
Melanie says
Hope you get some sunshine soon! The weather has been similar in Michigan, but I really enjoy the rainy/chilly days 🙂 I can’t wait to hear more about the veggie fries, they sound amazing!
Will those yoga tanks be in the shop soon?! I couldn’t find them!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you Melanie.
We finally got sun today and I felt like a million bucks. I love rainy days, but maybe once a month…lol Not 8 days straight! sheeeeeesh.
The yoga tanks are up in the shop in the Fall section 🙂
xo
Sara says
Hi Taralynn! I am wondering if you ship to APO addresses? (military) Thank you!
I adore your blog…looks like you are making the most of the not-so-great weather!
Sara
Taralynn McNitt says
I don’t yet! I will look into it though. I have never thought of that but I love the idea! & Thank you so much for the kind words about my blog! xo
jenn says
Love quiche for breakfast. My favorite combo is four cheese with fresh pico de galo. It’s weird but it works.
Taralynn McNitt says
That actually sounds really good!
Tara says
Hope you’re doing okay and everything is working out. Hope this next week is better for you. 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you Tara! (great name)
This week has gotten a lot better and the sun is finally out!
xo
Sarah says
That sweater! I love it! The patch Sleve mesh one.. When will it be restocked ?
Taralynn McNitt says
I’m hoping to restock it as soon as possible! xo & thank you!
Lena says
Is Grumples coming to DC too? What about Santonio?
Taralynn McNitt says
Santino lives with Nick and Grumples will be staying with my parents. I can’t take him with me.
Victoria says
You should sell socks and underwear in your boutique! And shoes!
Taralynn McNitt says
I’ll look into it 🙂
Marissa says
How is Tino?
Taralynn McNitt says
good!
Ana says
Your update was fun! Thanks! I’m not looking forward to fall here in North England… It’s going to be a rainy and dark one. The only way I can get my exercise in is at the gym. 🙁
But today is a (relatively) sunny day. You’ve inspired me to get my sneakers on and go for a run 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you Ana!
I’ve always wanted to go to England. I will have to look at your site and explore your photos!
Ana says
Let me know if you ever do! I’ll show you around 🙂 I love London!
Taralynn McNitt says
Sounds good!! xo
Laura says
Hey! I just started using an app called Charity Miles and thought it would be something you would like if you haven’t heard of it yet! You use it during your walks or runs and for every mile you run/walk, .25 cents gets donated to a charity of your choice! You should definitely check it out!
Taralynn McNitt says
I love Charity Miles! I use it as much as I can. Thanks for looking out!
Aimee says
Love these updates! I can’t wait to try those fries! Congrats on dropping the pounds!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you Aimee!!
Lexie says
Love your blog! Just curious what exactly you’re going to school for? Thanks for all the great recipes!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Lexie!
Thank you so much 🙂 I’ve been keeping the school stuff a little on the DL lately just to protect my privacy and once I’m on campus, I want to be safe. The internet is a scary place and you never know who is watching 😉 I had a couple run-ins the past couple of years with people finding my location and I’m doing everything I can to stay safe!
xo
Lindsay @ A Runnaroundd Life says
Good for you for hitting your health & fitness goals! Feels good to get back on track. Also, I LOVE seeing updates on your shop. Your items are so so cute, always!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you Lindsay!! 🙂
vanille says
hi Taralynn!
You’ve go a new frenchy reader! 🙂 I discovered your blog few weeks ago so I’ve been exploring it kind of backward since then.
The great thing about it is that (unlike many other fitness blogger) you sound very friendly and approachable. Love as well as your posts will suddenly motivate me to go for a run when it’s actually the last thing you would do otherwise. (I leave in new-caledonia, a french island where the weather is very, very warm and I have to get up at 4.30 am not to die during my 6 miles morning run) So thank you very much for that!
ps: And your fall collection is very very nice, that’s a shame that it’s far too hot to wear any of the items here… maybe you’ve got some summer items in stock? 😉
Keep going symply, you’re rocking it,
Vanille
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Vanille!
Nice to meet you 🙂 That is pretty dang early for a workout and I don’t know how you do it! Great job on the motivation and determination. You live in a beautiful place!
I have some cute Fallish/lightweight items coming up soon!
xo and I’m excited to have you as a reader!
Jade says
That’s awesome you’re going to be in DC again! I am born and raised in Maryland (about 20 minutes from DC) but don’t make it there that often! I took forward to your posts so I can make an effort to get there more often!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you Jade!
I’m excited for the trip and plan on trying out some new fun places!
Carolyn says
I am with you. So ready for all this rain to subside already! I don’t know if Grumples is like my puppy, but she LOVES to find the mud puddles and roll in them.
Jealous you have been getting runs in. I’m coming back from an injury and you’re making me want to go out and run! Haha. Have a blast in DC!! Hopefully you get some beautiful fall weather there
Taralynn McNitt says
Oh Grumples LOVE anything mud. His original owners actually named him “Muddy”…(makes sense now)
I know how frustrating injuries are! I have dealt with so many and it’s the most annoying thing! Hopefully you’re back to it soon!
I’m hoping I get to experience the beautiful Fall in DC! 🙂
Kristin C says
Oh wow! DC almost all month?! Have fun! I know you miss your brother!
Let’s grab coffee when you get back!
Taralynn McNitt says
YES! I wanna go to “not just coffee”!
Kristin C says
Me too! It’s my friend’s favorite! Please hit me up when you get back. I’ll email you my number 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Perfect!!!
Brooke says
I love that white quarter-zip you have on in the pumpkin pictures! Where is it from? Or, is it in your shop? Can’t wait to read about your D.C. adventures!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you! It’s from Orvis:)
erika c says
Hi!! Love reading your blog! I typically don’t comment but reading your post you mention how you can’t get warm and you bruise really easily, just curious if you have ever had your iron levels looked at? I was the same way and I found out I was anemic. Of course it could really be nothing but just thought I would share my own experience! Thanks for always keeping the blog so real!! xx, Erika
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Erika!
I am an anemic and so is my mom. It runs in the family. Those are definitely common reasons for my low iron and I don’t eat enough red meat! I have been taking supplements but sometimes its better to just get the iron the natural way.
Evelyn says
Greetings Taralynn – that quarter-zip is TOO cute! I have been wanting one from Orvis for a while but I wasn’t sure on the sizing. What would you recommend?
Taralynn McNitt says
I’m wearing a small in the photo and its still pretty lose. I’m 5’8 too.
Zully Hernandez says
We don’t mind your long and sometimes ‘overdue’ updates. It’s fun because it feels like catching up with an old friend 🙂 BTW I know you guys are twins, but you look so much like your brother in that Monday morning pic!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you Zully! That is really sweet:)
Lol my brother and I aren’t twins, but when I’m not wearing makeup…it’s scare how much we look alike!
Rebecca says
Hi Taralynn! I live in DC and have been following your blog since you started way back when 😉 I was wondering if you would ever consider doing a meet up when you are visiting in DC! I would love to meet you as I am sure so many of your followers in the DMV area would! Just a thought, could be fun!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Rebecca! I’m going to go to a couple of meet-up fitness groups and I’ll make sure to post about it! Would love to meet you as well! xo
Amber says
You look great, Taralynn! What did you do to lose your winter weight? I also gained weight last winter and I’ve been struggling to lose it.
Taralynn McNitt says
I’ve just been running a lot and cutting out the pizza, wings, and alcohol. I treat myself once a week and thats it! Thank you!
Betty says
You’re beautiful.
Jessica says
Where are your white/tan slip on sneakers from?!
Aly says
Hi Taralynn, I think I asked this before but it never sent? I was wondering how the sizing works for your shop. I love the dino sweater! So cute 🙂
Jen says
This may seem strange, but I just found your blog via weight loss transformation pictures. I used to be a size 2, but I’ll just say I’m huge now because I’m too embarrassed to admit my size. I have made the decision (again) to get myself back to normal. I have a very hard time sticking to anything and get discouraged when I do not see results soon enough. I was just wondering though what guidelines did you go by as far as eating when you first began this process and what was your beginning workout regimen? I am wanting something my 11 year-old son and I can do together. Any direction/help/advice you can give would be amazing! I’m tired of being depressed and feeling sorry for my husband because he’s stuck with this (my body.) Thanks!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Jen!
First off, never be embarrassed about your size. Size is literally just that…as size. It doesn’t determine your beauty, your life, or any self worth. I know sometimes it can make us feel a little bad, but don’t let it ruin your happiness and take each day at a time. Love yourself every single day no matter how “big” or “small” you are.
When I first started losing weight, I made sure to cut back on the things that made me gain the weight such as pizza, wings, late night dessert. When I got into a relationship, I got comfortable. I stopped working out as much as I used to and I started going out to eat more, and eating late nights. That stuff is great ONCE IN A WHILE, but not all the time. Winter seemed to be the worst. I had football stadium food, basketball arena food, and the holidays….oh the holidays…I just let my weight slip. (I was still happy) but still wanted to change. It also doesn’t help to have a blog with thousands of people commenting about your weight gain everyday 😉 If that’s not motivation…
I started to put workouts back into my life again. That meant running more (because i love it) and you have to find something you love. That means walking my dog more, just to get us both out. I started doing yoga with friends, hiking up the mountains, and lots of weight training.
Dinner consists of healthier foods (I don’t eat out as much as I used to) and when I do, I make healthier choices. I like to have fresh salads that are giant, lettuce wrapped veggie burgers with sweet potatoes, grilled chicken and green beans, etc. I don’t go crazy out of the way to make it clean, I just eat everything in moderation. Cutting out desserts was the hardest thing for me. I don’t get froyo anymore, random ice cream out of the fridge, or desserts. If I really want something after dinner, I’ll bake half a quest bar or have a couple pieces of dark chocolate chips.
So basically it’s exercise and diet + not going overboard. You have to make it a lifestyle that is 100% realistic. If you don’t, you’ll end up rewinding the progress, bingeing, or giving up. You have to find what works for you!
Jen says
Thanks, that’s very kind of you to take the time to write back to me! I really appreciate that!
Taralynn McNitt says
Of course! XO
Lynn says
Where can that Dino sweater and/or Dino tank be purchased?