Happy Thursday, Everyone!
I’m so excited to share all of my hiking photos with you from Tuesday. This was a huge day for my friend Becca. She took this day off from work months ago and wanted me to join her on the hike. I actually asked her to write a bit about why this hike was so important to her for this post and she agreed. I just think her story is so inspiring and some of you may be able to relate. I’ll be including that at the end.
I left my house at 7:00 AM and dropped Grumples off at my parent’s house so he wouldn’t be by himself all day.On the way up, we stopped for coffee. I ordered two shots of espresso and then added a splash of cream for the ride up.
I’ve been wanting to hit the trails and hikes in Asheville for a very long time but didn’t really want to do it alone. I couldn’t imagine myself standing on a trail, face to face with a bear all alone. ONE: no one would believe me & TWO. I probably wouldn’t live to tell about it (because I’d obviously try to selfie with him).
We hiked the Looking Glass Rock. There is only one trail on this entire rock, which made it much easier because I tend to get lost.
(this photo cred)
I was a bit surprised when we got there. The trees were naked compared to Charlotte’s. It’s crazy what a two-hour difference can do.
If you plan on hiking the trail, just look for the Pisgah National Forest Trail sign. It’s the only way in!
I figured the hike was going to be cold the entire time, but boy was I wrong. I took it off the first five minutes of going uphill.
It was the perfect day to hike. It was around 65 degrees and sunny. The trees blocked all of the wind, which made it so comfortable.The hike is uphill the entire time, but moderately. I don’t think the hike was hard at any point and I’d recommend it to all hiking levels. I’d actually love to run up to the top next time. Hiking is all about pacing yourself, kind of like running.
Some of the carvings in this tree went all the way to the top. I don’t even want to know how they got up that high.
Becca packed enough in her backpack to survive for a week. She also packed enough to fight off ten bears.This trail was beautiful from start to finish. Every turn had a new scene and each path had it’s own beauty to it.
We passed maybe five people the entire trail. It was so secluded and peaceful.
The sun felt so good!
I loved the way that the trees curled. It looked like something out of an illustration book.
This has me excited for the trails I’m going to hike in the West this summer.Before you get to the top (about 2.5 miles up) you come to an open area of rock. It’s the Helipad.
Someone painted a peace sign up there. There was a lot of carving and chalk art.
After you pass the helipad, it gets a little bit steeper, but nothing too bad. I actually think the top of Crowder’s mountain was more challenging than this hike. Maybe I was too distracted by Drake and Lil Wayne playing to notice the challenge. The hike was more relaxing than anything.
You just have to make sure to watch your step, or you’ll be taking a trip…
We finally made it to the top and it was worth every step.It was a gorgeous view of the Blue Ridge Mountains.I don’t think I’ve been in a more quiet place in my entire life. You could stick me in a dark room in an empty house and you’d still here the electricity, the lights, the air, the heat, or the outside world. Up here, you couldn’t hear anything but your own heartbeat. It was unbelievable.A little note from Becca,
“A little over a year ago, I packed all my belongings into my tiny, green car and drove twenty-five hundred miles away from home to Charlotte, NC. When I left my home state, I was a hundred pounds overweight, smoked a pack of cigarettes every day and wrestled with depression. Charlotte was my second chance and I promised myself change. I vowed to love myself again. Loving myself meant making better, more sensible choices with my body. I no longer wanted to pollute it with poison and unhealthy foods. I would never choose such an unhealthy lifestyle for someone that I loved so why did I chosen this for myself? The self-loathing had to go. I wanted so desperately to live.
As soon as I hit the North Carolina border, I trashed my last pack of cigarettes at a rest stop, took a deep breath and told myself that I was worthy of a fulfilling, healthy life. It hasn’t been an easy year, but I pushed myself every single day. I went to the gym after work, sometimes I even went twice a day. Whenever I felt like smoking a cigarette during a stressful day at work, I walked through the parking lot or jogged up and down the stairwell. I replaced my bad eating habits with better ones and most of all I worked on cultivating a new relationship with myself.
I chose to hike on the 365th day of my new life to celebrate and honor myself. It was a hike that marked a year of bravery, faith, and my becoming. It takes courage to change, to choose something better and persevere despite the odds. Honor the work. Celebrate the progress. Keep the faith.” When I was growing up, my mom always used jelly beans to teach my brother and I lessons. After Becca shared her story with me, I thought bringing jelly beans would be a great idea. Childish, but meaningful.
I pulled out the pink jelly beans and the black jelly beans once we got to the top. I told her about how my mom used to say that the black jelly beans were our lungs after smoking and the pink jelly beans were our healthy lungs. Not only did the black jelly beans represent the unhealthy lungs, they represented bad memories. I told her to take each black jelly bean, let it represent a horrible memory and then throw it off the mountain. Once that jelly bean is thrown off the top, it’s in the past and it can’t affect you anymore. The pink jelly beans are for you to keep as a reminder of a new start.
She could have laughed at my jelly bean idea, but she loved it. It definitely brought out all the emotion in her and then when she was done, we started laughing at the fact that chucking jelly beans off of a mountain could make someone cry, but it was powerful.
I only chucked one bad jellybean off…if you know what I mean 😉I haven’t worn my hair in side braids since high school basketball games, but I think I’m going to rock this look more often.
The black jelly beans didn’t stand a chance.I brought one of my favorite juices to have once I got to the top for some extra energy to go with my water. This Suja had apple, celery, cucumber, kale, collard greens, lemon, spinach, chlorella and spirulina.
Trusting you, branch!We stayed up at the top for about an hour just soaking up the sun and I did some stretching.I just let all the negative energy out when I got to the top. Sometimes a day like this can be used as a cleanse of all negativity.Walnuts, Almonds, Cashews & Pecans!We headed back down around 4 pm.
This was the perfect time to come down because the sun was shining through the trees and it was absolutely beautiful.
I kind of felt like I was in a Twilight movie.
I also found that the entire bottom half of the trail was sparkling, literally. It looked like someone had just dumped gallons of sparkles all over.
We would have finished the hike much faster but all of the views were breathtaking and I wanted to take them with me.
There are campsites at the top as well! I’m so happy we didn’t run into any bears.My phone ended up dying, so we used Becca’s to track the trail!After the trail, we headed down the road to the Looking Glass Falls.
We took the mountain route to head down to Asheville for dinner. Every time we would go through the tunnels, I’d think of the movie Alien Abduction…the ones about the NC mountains…:|We had to keep stopping so I could get some good shots of the Blue Ridge mountains.We made it to Asheville at 7:00 pm for dinner.We headed to the Cantina for skinny margaritas and dinner!I had their glazed salmon salad with mango salsa! OH, SO, GOOD!We didn’t want to head back without coffee, so we headed to High Five Coffee shop.I ordered a latte with skim milk and a splash of honey. It was pretty darn good too! We drove around Asheville a bit before we headed back to see the downtown area, but I just can’t wait to go back and explore the city by foot this summer!
Thank you for reading & dealing with my endless amount of photos! I know that takes a lot of scrolling. 🙂
Questions For You!
- Where is your favorite place to hike/have hiked?
- Is positivity important to you?
- What is something you’ve achieved that you are so proud of?
Heather @ Polyglot Jot says
This is beautiful and seriously congratulations to your friend Becca! What a great milestone! Definitely didnt mind scrolling through all of these!
Positivity is everything! If im not positive about something going on, i always feel worse about it later! im trying to work on being more positive on a daily basis!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you so much Heather!
I completely agree about positivity. We get stressed and things don’t go our way, but it’s better to be positive about it!
xo
Sammee Solly says
It’s so awesome to see you in Asheville! If you want a little more challenging hike, check out the Montreat Conference Center in Black Mountain (just outside of Asheville). My boyfriend and I love hiking up there! S
Taralynn McNitt says
Asheville was wonderful and I can’t wait to go back!
I will definitely check out that mountain next time I’m up there. I’d love a challenge!
xo
Anna says
WOW, you have some beautiful scenery in your state! Loved the pictures!
1. I live in ND and it is so SO flat here haha. There aren’t many trails to hike, but I like walking by the river sometimes. It’s at least sort of pretty 🙂
2. Positivity is very important to me. I’ve had to learn how to not dwell on silly negative things, which did not come easy. That’s why I love your posts so much. The positivity just flows from them!
3. Something I’ve achieved is taking a leap of faith on a new job and leaving an absolutely miserable one behind. My last job made me so unhappy and my new one (been a year now so maybe not SO new) has me gushing happily nearly everyday.
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you Anna! North Carolina definitely has it all.
I know what it’s like in the flatland (Iowa Native) River/water walks are my favorite.
Dwelling can be your worst enemy. I used to do it all the time, but learning to let things go has been incredible. You can move on for the better after you let stuff go, even the little things.
Congrats on your new job and that leap! Love seeing how happy it makes you!! xo xo
Taralynn <3
Kay says
Hi Tara! Where are your cute pink shoes from?! 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
ASICS. (but seriously…$19.00 on EBAY)
😀
Lanie says
Loved this post!!!!! By the way is that your car?!
Taralynn McNitt says
I wish! Imagine how fun that would be to go across country in?:)
Lanie says
Yes!! You would probably get some funny looks…but that would be awesome!
Dana says
1. Mt Rainer – I can’t wait to go back there and I will get to soon!
2. Very very important and it takes so much work. I’m a pessimist by nature and it’s easy to get down about stuff. I read somewhere, that if you have a negative thought, immediately replace it with a positive one. It has helped me so much.
3. I’m proud of beating my depression on my own, similar to Becca’s story. I was in a bad place in my life and I took the steps to make the changes I needed to be happy and healthy for me and those I love. It meant cutting out poisonous relationships (which were with relatives- not an easy thing to do), cutting way back on alcohol, exercising a lot (I started running), and not comfort eating. I can fall back into the comforting eating trap-currently trying to lose the 10lbs I gained back last year- but I’m not beating myself up over it.
This was one of the best posts I’ve ever read. I was starting to cry at the end- so moving! A big thank you to Becca for sharing her story and to you for the beautiful photos that went with it. I’m pinning it to my inspiration board.
Taralynn McNitt says
Mt Rainer looks beautiful and I’m definitely adding it to my list.
It does take work, but it’s worth it. That is a great piece of advice! 🙂
So happy to hear your story (thank you for sharing) and congrats on beating the depression! It’s tough and I’m sure days it’ll still be tough. Never beat yourself up. Take each day one day at a time! xo
& thank you for the kind words! xo xo xo
Danielle says
Go to Sliding Rock which is just a short drive from the Looking Glass Falls! Go late summer tho, the water is freezing!!
Taralynn McNitt says
That sounds like a blast! 🙂
Rachel says
I loved this post! It looks like you had such a beautiful hike and your friend Becca’s story is so inspiring. I’ve been unemployed and feeling really down for the past couple months and I’m longing for a fresh start. I would love to hear more about how she did it.
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks Rachel!
She really is inspiring and has helped me grow as a person. I’ll let her know you commented, and I’m sure she’ll come reply:) xo xo
Becca says
Hi Rachel,
It’s Becca! I’m so thankful you shared a little piece of your life with Tara and me on here. When I decided to leave home, the first thing I did was rid myself of anything that didn’t bring me joy – both material items and relationships. I handpicked only things that brought happiness when I moved to Charlotte. I’ve battled depression on and off throughout my life so I’ll share a couple things I’ve learned. When you want to stay in bed or sit on the couch, that’s your cue to go to the gym or wander around Target. Be around other people even if you don’t want to. Self-care is super important. So lots of baths, wholesome food and good music. Be kind and bring honor to yourself. Lastly, reach out. Talk to friends and family members about your feelings if that feels safe to you. Volunteer if you are able. Seek a doctor if you need it. Mental health is so important and so are you. Hang in there, Rachel 🙂
Heather says
Hi Becca!
You’re a beautiful writer and your story is so much like mine! Any chance you would become a blogger as well?
Heather says
Oh, don’t worry about the bears. The bears on the east coast are black bears. Trust me, they are more afraid of you then you are of them! You would be lucky if you even see one, once they see a human they take off. Unless, its a mama bear and she has her cubs. If she starts to pound her paw on the ground and make a grunting noise, then that’s your caution. All you have to do is appear bigger. Wave hiking poles or step up on a hill/rock, wave your arms and scream loudly. Throwing rocks at them also works. Its very rare a black bear will charge so I would never worry about it. I hike the Appalachian Trail in Roan Mtn, TN all the time. No biggie.
Hanging Rock is about two hours from Charlotte, that’s a great hike. Pilot Mountain is also nearby. Boone has fantastic hikes and a great town to visit (make sure you visit Grandfather mountain, chimney rock and blowing rock).
m says
ok this is weird but when i hit reply – someone elses picture pops up as mine? well, whoever those people are are not me! LOL
anyway becca i really would like to hear more about your journey. maybe you could do a guest blog post or even start your own blog! i’m curious about things like: what/where were you coming from, where did you end up (not just location, but job, hobbies, etc), why did you pick that area, what was it like your first few months there, etc. i’m very interested to hear about something like this. several years ago i really thought about picking up and moving to southern california but was too afraid to be that far away from my family and also afraid of running out of money when i got there, haha. i don’t REGRET not doing it but i sometimes wonder what exactly would have happened if i had!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hey! I’ll let Becca know you left her a comment so she can reply! 🙂
Rachel says
Thank you for your sweet response, Becca! You’re right, self care is so important and something I’ve been neglecting lately. I’m looking forward to seeing more you and your story on this blog! 🙂
Rachel A says
I’ve been following your blog since the tumblr/undressed skeleton days and it’s one of my favorites. Congratulations to your friend Becca! I love her panda tattoo and I hope she continues on this journey! North Carolina is such a beautiful state and it’s seriously making me wish I had hiked more when I lived in Kentucky! I live in Florida now and it’s FLAT…and swampy. My favorite place to hike is Red River Gorge in KY…it’s beautiful!
Positivity is important to me and it’s something that I’m working on daily. Life throws you some tough times along with happy times and you just have to focus on the positive because someone else has it worse than you think you do! I’ve completed two half marathons(run/walk method) but I’m still super proud of those medals! RunDisney races make me feel like an actual runner even though I’m not yet! haha.
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you!
She is killing her journey and its awesome to see her succeed! Florida has some awesome trails though, just watch for the gators! Do you live near the beach?
You’re so right. There is always someone who is going through something way worse, and you have to be grateful for what you have and what you’re handed. Nice job on the 1/2s!!! walk or not, still a damn accomplishment! 🙂
xo xo xo
Allison says
1. Little Bradley Falls- Saluda, NC. You should definitely check it out! You would love it.
2. Positivity is definitely important to me. Life is what you make it.
3. I am about to finish up my third year of pharmacy school at Campbell University!
BTW Asheville is awesome! You should also check out the Twisted Crepe and the Chocolate Fetish. In the summer, downtown they have Shindig On the Green too if you like bluegrass music!
Taralynn McNitt says
I’m writing all of these places down. I love exploring new areas. I do Crowders a lot but need to venture out!
Thats the truth!
Congrats on finishing up! That is amazing 🙂
That sounds like a blast!
Jenn says
What a fun trip! I’m curious though, what app do you use for tracking steps? I’ve looked into a few and just can’t find one that I really love. I use RunKeeper for my runs, but I would love to have one for everyday use.
Taralynn McNitt says
Becca uses Savage! I use my microsoft watch. & I love run keeper for workouts!
Becca says
Hi Jenn,
It’s Becca! I actually use S Health not Savage. Its a built in app on my Samsung Note. You should be able to find it in the Google Play store if you use an android operating system.
Tara says
Your pictures are absolutely gorgeous! I loved the rainbow in the picture of the waterfall! You look so good too! (Not that you don’t always, but you look really happy!) Tell Becca she has an amazing story, and it is such an inspiration! I’m so happy she shared with us!
Being positive is super important to me. If you don’t try to be positive, you are never going to be happy!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks Tara & I know exactly what you mean. I am VERY happy and sometimes it takes happiness to make a person look a little bit more vibrant 😉
I will definitely pass that on to Becca!!
You got that right!!!!
Shannen says
Wow those pictures are gorgeous! I’m sure the real view was even more fantastic. Way to go, Becca! Girl you should start a blog.. Haha I have want to just move to NC and start my life over, but have been so scared to do it. Props to following your dreams and doing what is best for you.
I love hiking! Especially in the Adirondack mountains and in São Paulo.
Positivity is crazy important. But sometimes it’s hard when you find yourself in the midst of circumstances you can’t change. Last year I said I was going to lose weight and get fit. Without any “meal plan” or actually going to a gym, I lost about 30 pounds and am still working on getting fit and losing the rest! Having people come and say that I look good and that they have seen a difference definitely makes me feel good!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks Shannen!
Never be scared to do something you want 🙂 You’ll live forever with “what ifs.” If it’s something you want to do or dream of, go after it.
Hiking is the best!
It is hard sometimes, but it takes strength to pull it out. You just have to find the inner positivity. We all have it. Congrats on the weight loss and the healthy lifestyle! 🙂
Leslie says
Thank you for sharing your friend’s journey! We all have tough times and for some reason, try to hide them and it just feeds our shame. But I love when we get to share our stories because it makes us reflect on the journey that has gotten us where we are today! There is a state protected trail right outside Columbus that I love to go to in the summer time. And yes, obviously above, positivity is important to me! It’s helped me through my fifty pound weight loss. Keeping that off and becoming the healthiest me possible is a forever goal in my life but things like your blog help me keep going!
Taralynn McNitt says
People should never be afraid to hide their stories, struggles or strengths! It makes us who we are and reminds others that we are all the same. I’ll be in columbus this summer, so I’ll have to try that out! Congrats on the weight loss that is amazing! Keep your positivity up! i love it! xo
Abby says
Hi Taralynn,
I loved this post. I grew up in the mountains of CO and am an avid hiker. For me as well, it’s extremely therapeutic. I really loved how Becca shared her story. It really touched my hear tonight, especially, and reminds me how you’re never too late to start fresh. Positivity is extremely important to me, but I’ve had times where I feel like I won’t find it again. That’s one thing I’m proud of; this year I thought I wouldn’t be able to carry on, but the positive energy from my loved ones is what got me through it all. Reading this was a really great reminder that the world arounds us contains so much beauty, love, and positivity. Thanks for sharing. I wish I could’ve hiked with you both!
XOXO,
Abby
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Abby!
I’d LOVE to hike in CO! It’s so therapeutic.
You can start any journey at any time in life. It’s never ever too late to do anything! Keep your positive attitude and outlook out! Wish all of you guys could have joined us on the hike! Maybe I should start a hiking group in the carolinas!
xo
Lauren says
I have been reading your blog for years but I just had to post to this one. I live in Memphis, Tn and around your age (about 7 years ago) I took off and moved to Asheville, NC. I needed change. I struggled with finding happiness and knew I just needed to conquer an adventure on my own to really figure out who I was and what I wanted. So 25 years old I moved to Asheville and got a house, a dog, worked at Mission Hospital, and met great friends who I still talk to today. It is a fantastic city. Ironically I ended up talking to an old friend from Memphis and for two years we dated long distance. I fell in love and moved back. We are married and I couldn’t be happier. You are doing all the right things. Take this time in your life to get to know yourself. And North Carolina is just the place to do it:) Your never know where your adventures now… will lead you later!!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Lauren!
Your story is very inspiring and I love that you took the jump to just move and start a new life. Congrats on finding what you were looking for and the marriage! Life always throws weird curveballs at me and I never know what to expect, but I take them as they come!
xo
Melissa FitzGerald says
Your friend Becca is so inspiring! I loved her story so much!
As for your questions…
1. My favorite place I’ve ever hiked was in Montana. My family and I were driving up to Canada for the day, because I guess that’s what Montanans do, and we decided to hike up this mountain that we came across. I was completely unprepared – in flip flops – and it was the middle of July, and we ended up seeing snow at the top! It was so cool!
2. Positivity is so, so important to me. I have extreme anxiety that can get really out of hand at times, and the friendly, loving people I’ve surrounded myself with know how to make me feel okay again. There’s enough unwarranted negativity in my head that I need all of the positive vibes I can get!
3. Getting myself through school. I had to take out an insane amount of student loans to do it, and I’ll probably be paying them off until my grandkids have kids, but as someone who almost didn’t graduate high school (math classes, am I right?), being able to say that I’m graduating from college in just over a month is such an amazing feeling. Like Becca, I packed up all of my belongings and moved 1,300 miles away to Chicago, and it’s been the best experience of my life.
Taralynn McNitt says
She really is!
1. LOVED LOVED LOVED Montana! I also went to Canada when I was up there last time! I had to laugh at the flip flop comment because its totally something I would do!
2. I also suffer from anxiety so I have to always take deep breathe and stay positive.
3. Congrats on doing it! That is awesome 🙂 I love that you also took the jump to move across the country! Chicago is a great place!!
xo and keep being awesome!
Tiffanie says
Hi Taralynn! I’ve been a long time follower of your blog! I think I’ve been reading since 2008!
I’ve hiked some pretty beautiful places. My favorites are Red Rock canyon in Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon/Sedona area (Arizona native lol) there’s an awesome trail called Devils bridge.
Speaking of positivity we are going through this amazing book in a bible study at church all about changing your mindset. It seems like something you would enjoy
http://www.amazon.com/Lord-Change-My-Attitude-Before/dp/0802434398
Congrats to Becca!! I know all too well how depression comes right along with weight gain and it can be tough to dig yourself out of that hole. 4 years ago I lost 85 pounds and then got a high stress job and gained it back 🙁 but I’m back on the weight loss path again. Mind over matter!
Not to sound creepy but I’m pretty sure I went to High school with your friend Becca lol. When you first posted a picture of her she looked SO familiar. And we have a lot of the same friends on Instagram. Such a small world!!!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Tiffanie!
Thank you for following me for so long:) xo
I’d love to hike all of those places! I did the camelback in AZ and that was fun!
I’ll definitely check that book out! Thank you 🙂
Mind over matter for sure and you can beat this!
It’s definitely a small world!!
Amber says
How did you and Becca meet? Your friendship seems amazing. Its so great to have people in your life with similar goals. I loved her story and this post
Taralynn McNitt says
She works with some of my friends and we met at a Trivia night! She was way too cool to not hang out with again and we just kind of clicked as friends. We have a lot of stuff in common and she’s as goofy as me. I got lucky finding a friend like her!
Lauren K says
You have a great body Taralynn and I am so happy to see you happy. You never sparkled when you were dating Nick. Please don’t’ take this the wrong way but you seemed more suffocated in your older posts. I feel a sense of relief and fresh air while reading your new posts. I never really liked Nick for some reason and I couldn’t pinpoint it. I read bad energies from people and he never stood well with me. I hope you continue to spread your positivity around the world and to the young females that read your blog.
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Lauren!
Thank you for your kind words and I will make sure to keep spreading all the positivity. Nick is a really good person 🙂 We just weren’t good for each other, but I do appreciate your nice comments! Sometimes people are better off finding themselves before finding relationships!
xo
Emily Weir says
What a great reason to take a day off and hike a killer mountain! Congrats to Becca for making it through that year and coming out stronger than when she started.
I’ll definitely have to add that trail to my bucket list. All of your pictures were beautiful. Besides hiking Crowder’s Mountain a few years ago, hiking in the lake district of England (Keswick) for my 22nd birthday is definitely at the top. It’s surrounded by beautiful, calm lakes and their are goats crossing your path all the way to the top. It doesn’t even look real.
Taralynn McNitt says
Definitely! I can’t wait to see where she is at next year! Crazy what 365 days can do for a person if you set your mind to it!
Thank you for the nice comments and i bet that hike was gorgeous! I might have to add that to my list!!
xo xo
Dani says
I wish you were my friend in real life. You seem to have a great outlook on life and I could use someone like you. I’m currently going through a very bad breakup and I don’t know how to handle it. My friends seem to be so negative about it and I feel so lonely.
I love how you dedicated the day to Becca and celebrated with her. The jelly bean idea is genius and so cute of you to do.
Congrats on your journey Becca. I can’t wait to see you succeed even more! I hope Taralynn continues to share your journey with us. I feel connected with you through the posts and I appreciate you opening up to millions of readers and the entire world. Im sure Taralynn is used to it by now but it takes courage!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you Dani! You have it inside of you to have that same outlook on life. Take a day for yourself and collect all of the emotion and let it go. It’s also ok to feel sad and it’s ok to feel as if you’re struggling. Just work on YOURSELF every single day. Think positive! Breakups can actually make you WAY WAY WAY stronger! Think of all the things you can do now as an independent woman. Go on little trips, go buy yourself a new outfit, go workout and take up a new hobby.
It was definitely Becca’s day and I’m happy I got to be apart of it.
I also hope she continues to share her story with you guys and I’d love to have her do it!
Tiffany says
1) Enchanted Rock, in Fredricksburg, Texas. IT is this huge rock. I have only climbed it twice but man I love the burn ha.
2)I’m so proud of you and how you have handle everything that is going on with you and your breakup. I recently got my heart broken and im still trying to figure out how to heal completely. Positivity is so important because it gives you a fresh start in life.
3)I recently got my degree in Human Resources this past December. I’m a small town girl and never thought that I would have a degree in my life. Very thankful and blessed. I’m hoping this year I can get certified as a personal trainer.
You are awesome. Love your blog. God Bless you and all your endeavors.
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you Tiffany xo xo
Sounds like a great workout! & I need to make it to TEXAS soon!
Just take some deep breathes and look forward! Don’t look back at what was or what could have been. Focus on WHAT WILL BE.
Congrats on the degree! Keep focusing on you, girl!!!
Jennifer says
Tell Becca thank you for sharing her story with everyone! I love hearing stories from people that truly become inspirations to me. It makes me want to better my life everyday!
1. YOU HAVE TO HIKE CHIMNEY TOP. Haha it’s near Knoxville, TN which isn’t too terribly far from Charlotte I don’t think. (while you’re there, also visit the square in Knoxville, so charming and cute places to see!) In college I went on a Habitat trip to Maryville, and we hiked that mountain on the way back home. It was incredible and the view was amazing! One of the best memories I have.
2.Positivity is very important and it’s something I try to work on everyday! I read your post last night right before I left work, and you had me thinking about it the whole way home!
3. I would say being brave enough to make my own decisions about my life. All through high school, I was a “goodie two shoes” and did everything my mom and dad wanted… after that, I started making decisions that I knew would make me happy. They aren’t necessarily on board with everything, but I’m trying to not let that get to me! Some days its hard because they’re my parents… but I have to learn to stay positive! That’s why I love your blog, gives me so much hope, inspiration, and positivity. Thank you Taralynn!!
Taralynn McNitt says
I will definitely pass on that, I also have her reading the comments! I want her to see that her story has definitely touched others. You should better your life EVERYDAY!! No matter what it is.
1. I’ve heard all about Chimney top and I definitely think it’s worth the drive! I have heard so many great things about knoxville!
2. So happy that my posts brought some positivity to your life! That’s why I continue to do it! 🙂
3. That is such a great accomplishment. I always get opinions from others, but it really comes down to how YOU feel and what YOU want to do. It’s YOUR life. Proud of you. You’re young and you need to experience, make mistakes, fail, and build yourself back up. It’s ok! 🙂 Keep doing you and succeeding! Love that you’re growing into a whole new world of independence.
Samantha J. says
Loved the post! I just returned from a mini vacation in the Asheville area, such a unique and beautiful place! I instantly fell in love and have been telling everyone I know it’s somewhere they have to visit – I’ll have to start referring people to this post now!
But if you ever find yourself a few hours west of Asheville, near Gatlinburg, TN, Chimney Tops trail is a must! The last part of the trail gets a little scary but you feel such a sense of accomplishment once you make it to the top and the views are to die for!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you Samantha!
I can’t wait to actually explore the downtown. I’ve only been to the biltmore and the mountain and kind of drove all around, but I’d love some recommendations on what to see, eat, do!
Chimney Tops is on the list:)
xo xo
Samantha J. says
One of the coolest things about Asheville (besides all the great restaurants and hiking) is how SO MANY musicians play on street corners in the evening. You can walk around and listen to people play for hours.
For a quick meal, I’d totally recommend the White Duck Taco Shop. And Wicked Weed Brewing Pub had a great atmosphere and drinks. But I’m sure you could find great food at any restaurant there!
Taralynn McNitt says
I love that too! It’s such an artsy town.
I saw both of those places and I will have to check them out! xo thank you!
Nicole says
I LOVE Becca’s story! She sounds amazing and dedicated, and I love the way she chose to celebrate and commemorate the year of her growth. The hike looks gorgeous.
When I lived in DC, I loved hiking Great Falls national park. There are a bunch of trails, and I would go alone on a gorgeous fall day to soak up the nature. My most “accomplished” hiking challenge was hiking Old Rag Mountain in Shenandoah this past November. We did it in 5.5 hours in freezing rain, which is at the lowest end of the hiking time. It was brutal in some places where we had to rock climb, and it felt never ending, but I had such a high at the end for having accomplished such a rough hike in inclement conditions. It was one of those “wow, I CAN do hard things” moments.
Taralynn McNitt says
She really is!
Great Falls is gorgeous and I want to do some of the hikes out that way. I bet the Shenandoah was gorgeous in November! Congrats on the hike and especially with those weather conditions! You go girl!
xo
Jess says
Hi Taralynn,
If you go to Asheville and go to Sierra Nevada’s Brewery, PLEASE tell me, Im such a huge fan of yours and my dad is the architect of that brewery so I would love to tell him what you think! Its absolutely beautiful!! I haven’t been yet because I live in CA and haven’t had the time to fly out there to see it!
1. If you ever come to CA, I have some of the most amazing trails to tell you about! I loved Yosemite, there are no words for a place like that. John Muir said it best, “The mountains are calling and I must go” so true! Theres something about nature that is so simple. It just exists so its beautiful. I want to live that way.
2. Positivity is huge for me, Ive been dealing with an illness for years and if you aren’t positive, It may sound terrible but you start to question why you’re here. I have to stay positive!!!
3. Once I can get this disorder out of my life, I will be proud of that accomplishment. I have a tattoo that says “Fight to Live” and thats what I’ve got to do everyday! I don’t want to survive, I want to live and the two are very different. You can’t enjoy anything when you just barely survive, living is where life starts! Thank you for the post, it gave me the confidence to reply something!! Have a great day!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hey Jess!
I will make sure to put that on my list of things to do in Asheville! Thank you for letting me know 🙂
1. I WANT TO DO YOSEMITE SO BAD!!! & you and I both have the same outlook on nature & life!
2. Love that you’re staying positive in such a hard time and it’s important to do so! Keep fighting & I hope things turn around soon.
3. You seem like a very strong person and I have no doubt you can beat whatever you’re struggling with. Keep moving forward! xo xo
Bree says
Amazing job Becca, thanks for sharing!
Loved the pictures!!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you!!
Zey says
1. I live in Colorado and one of my favorite casual places to hike is Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs. It’s beautiful and always filled with people and dogs 🙂
2. I think being positive is so important. We all have days or periods of our life that are negative but there’s always a light at the end of the tunnel, even if you can’t see it yet!
3. I’ve always enjoyed working out but I used to hate running until I moved back to Colorado from Arizona. I started running a lot here and now I can actually go for a while without feeling like dying! Next month I’ll be running a relay with a team from work at the Colfax Marathon. I thought it would be a good way to ease into running races.
Your hiked looked beautiful and therapeutic! Becca is so inspirational! Congrats on your accomplishments! I think I’ll bring some jelly beans the next time I go hiking too 😉
Taralynn McNitt says
1. I want to go to Colorado so bad. I can’t imagine the places you get to hike.
2. There really is a light at the end of every tunnel! SO right and sometimes negativity blinds the light.
3. Good luck on the relay! I can’t wait to hear all about it!
Definitely bring those jelly beans!!
Ashton Jury says
Congratulations too Becca! Way to go girl! Please tell her she is awesome and I am super jealous of her shirt! lol I love all the pictures of Asheville, that waterfall is gorgeous! I’m honestly starting to look into taking a vacation now out that way especially towards Charleston. Though in a week I’ll be hiking in Monument Valley with the hubs for his 30th birthday. Also that salmon salad you had looks tasty!
Taralynn McNitt says
I will (she will probably read your comment 🙂 You should definitely do a Asheville, Charlotte, Charleston stop! Have fun on the monument valley hike!!
Katy says
Taralynn,
You look so amazing. What is your workout and eating schedule like? You’ve always looked good but your muscles are huge lately and you look so happy!
Congrats to Becca! This has inspired me to quit smoking!
Katy
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you Katy!!
I have been running 3-5 times a week, walking 2-6 miles everyday with my dog, and eating a lot of healthy foods & unhealthy foods in moderation. I usually have a bowl of cereal with almond milk for breakfast, go for a run, have eggs when I get back for protein, a protein/berry/veggie smoothie for a late lunch, and whatever I want for dinner in moderation 🙂 I also gave up desserts. I used to have dessert every single day and now I’ve kicked the sugar cravings. If I want something sweet, I’ll have fruit. I also do 20 minutes of strength training before bed every night.
& I’m so happy that Becca’s story inspired you to quit! It’s never too late to have pink jelly beans ;)!
xo
Jaime says
1. I’ve always wanted to go hiking but I haven’t done any major hikes like you have done…just a few miles in various parks and trails. I have to convince one of my friends to go with me. There are so many great places near me in Philly!
2. Very important. It’s very hard for me to be positive sometimes. I like Tupac’s song ‘keep your head up.’ It’s emotional, and recognizes that you’re feeling bad for a reason, but that you still have to be positive.
3. The beginning of last March I moved back to my hometown and back in with my parents after a hard breakup at the beginning of the year. I was 30ish pounds overweight and very unhappy with myself. I lived in a not walking friendly area and had a 45 minute commute. My parents had to drive me because I didn’t have a license – I was scared to death of driving but I was starting to take lessons and overcome my fear. So humiliating at 23 years old but I had to deal with it. I started walking on my lunch breaks at work because I couldn’t go anywhere anyway. I started tracking my meals because I needed that accountability and to get better with portion control. I started doing Jillian Michaels videos on YouTube until I felt confident enough to join a gym – and until I had a license to take myself to the gym. Less than two months after moving home, I had lost some weight already and got my license. Now, a year later, I’ve moved into my own place in the city, find driving to be a form of relaxation (not always lol), and have lost nearly 40 pounds. None of my old clothes fit me and I feel like a different person. I’m so confident and I feel better than I ever have before. I workout 5-6 days a week and look forward to it! I eat fairly healthy without obsessing over it and try not to guilt myself when I eat unhealthy foods.
Oops this turned into a novel 😛 Just want to say thanks for sharing your story/life on your blog because it has been a constant inspiration for me, especially in this past year. <3
Taralynn McNitt says
Trails and river walks are just as therapeutic as large hikes. Definitely grab some friends and hit a trail sometime!
LOVE that you referenced TUPAC! ha
Thank you for sharing your story! That is so inspiring. look how far you have come and sometimes it takes a crappy situation to build us back up! We always get stronger if we try. You’re such an inspiration and so many people can relate to your situation!
xo xo & i love the novels!
Brooklyn says
That spotty banana in your photo looks really good! Since moving to Vancouver I don’t like the banana’s here, so yours looks really good! Weird I know…
I love hiking! But I’m scared to hike alone in Vancouver after seeing a documentary about the mountain lions here, so I’m hoping I will be able to convince my boyfriend sometime soon to go with me.
Where you hiked looks gorgeous 🙂
http://www.justbeingbrooklyn.com
Taralynn McNitt says
Lol glad i’m not the only one who loves the spotted bananas! It’s totally understandable!
Yeah, you definitely need some protection in Vancouver and you shouldn’t hike alone. I don’t hike alone here or anywhere!
I can’t wait to visit more of Asheville’s trails!
xo
Caitlyn says
Wow, well this post drew up some feelings. Becca’s words really hit me hard and actually made me tear up a little because I feel like I can relate to her, except that she had the courage to change her situation and to better herself and I’m SSOOOOOO proud of her for doing that she is an inspiration just like you Tara, hopefully one day I’ll get the courage as well ^_^ Thank you for this post, I think I really needed it. 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
That is wonderful Caitlyn! Stay positive & things will start to look up. Take each day at a time! xo
Carrie says
Congrats to Becca I love when people work hard to help themselves. It is so easy to be complacent and blame others way to go!!
Living in Albuquerque we have the beautiful Sandia mountains a hike to the top is best!!
Positivity is so important and easy to forget. I focus daily on staying positive and seeing the good in all.
I was in a really bad marriage that ended horribly. I am so proud how I overcame that situation as a stronger independent woman. I am now married to the man of my dreams with two beautiful babies. I am proud for not becoming a victim but changing my life and focusing on what is important. I am also proud because I became Catholic two years ago and that was a hard and testing journey for me and my fiance at the time especially being married before. We worked hard trusted the Lord and are now in an amazing place with lots to be proud of!!
Thanks for a great uplifting blog!!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Carrie!
That hike does sound beautiful!
There is good in absolutely every situation, it’s all about being optimistic.
I love that you got through it and went after happiness. SO many people stay in horrible relationships or marriages because they are afraid of society or what others think. Love that you have so much courage and it lead you to a happier life! When one door closes, another one opens! Congrats on your leap of faith as well. I am also a Catholic 🙂
xo xo xo
Carly says
Your hike pictures are beautiful! And I loved hearing Becca’s story! Congrats to her on her year life changing year and her obvious passion for life! So nice to see you are such great friends for each other!
I grew up hiking all over Colorado, so the Rockies will always have a special place in my heart (especially Pikes Peak!)
Until more recently I never really took specific notice to positivity. But after being around someone who is more positive and genuine than most I am inspired to focus on positivity when I can. Also reading your blog and your recent focus and discussion on positivity inspires me also!
It may sound silly, but standing on my own two feet and building a life that is mine makes me proud. There are always people who doubt decisions and to see my choices and how the shape my life today make me proud to be able to say ‘I built this life with my choices’
http://www.adventuresarebettertogether.wordpress.com
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you Carly! I think so too!
So lucky to have hiked all over!!! I need to make it out to Colorado!
It’s always nice to surround ourselves with positive people, reads and moments!
That doesn’t sound silly at all!! I am right there with you!
Samantha says
I love these kinds of posts! They are by far some of my favorite!! Are you going to be hiking a lot this summer?? And to answer your questions: My all time favorite place to hike is in the Logan, Utah canyon. I’m currently living up there and I LOVE hiking all of the trails. It is by far the coolest thing I’ve seen. I can’t wait to hike the wind caves sometime really soon!!
Positivity is SUPER important to me. I really do believe in the whole “good vibes” thing. So much of our happiness is in our control and it’s so easy to forget that we have the power to change our lives.
Something that I’m most proud of is that I’ve gotten back into shape. I still have a little ways to go BUT I am almost there. A couple of years ago, my health was so bad because I ways always sick. Finally, the doctors figured out what the problem was and it’s been in this past year or two that I’ve really gotten back on my feet with my health.
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you Samantha!
I plan on hiking a ton this summer! It’s one of my favorite things to do.
I heard that Utah has some of the best places to hike and I hope I can make it out that way someday. The wind caves sound fantastic!
Good vibes are everything. I agree with what you said for sure.
Nice job. It’s easy to fall off the “in shape” latter and super hard to get back on it. I’ve been trying to do the same lately and it helps to surround yourself with people who want to change too. Glad you found out what was going on and are able to get back into the swing of things! xo xo
Colleen says
Omigosh, hiking is one of my FAVORITE things to do in the summer 🙂 it’s always so peaceful and relaxing, perfect for getting away from our hectic lifestyles!
1 – My favorite place to hike is probably Harriman State Park, it’s this HUGE and beautiful park and I could hike around there all day (in fact, I have! haha)
2 – Positivity is really important to me, and a lot of the time I find myself falling off the positivity bandwagon…especially during the school semester where everything is so stressful! It’s something I definitely need to focus on more.
3 – Gee, that one’s tough. I thiiiiink it would have to be my transferring from one university to a much better one. I realized at my first college that I wanted more challenges and opportunities and so I transferred to a well known (and overall, much better) university and in doing so, I learned more about myself than I ever thought possible. I think journeys like that are really important: we need the difficult times in order to appreciate the wonderful times in life!
PS — I was checking out your shop and I LOVE the shoes you’ve been wearing in the new spring collection! Where’d you get those cute ones with the ankle straps? Hehe <3
Taralynn McNitt says
It’s SO peaceful!
That sounds like a gorgeous place to hike.
It’s all about how you control it and how you look at things 🙂 I agree that it can be difficult sometimes. I go through days where I’m such a negative nancy but it doesn’t feel good to be!
Nice job on the transfer and making a tough decision! I always say the same thing about the difficult times too!
CATOS! Love that place for cheap and cute shoes.
Emily says
Hi Taralynn! I work for the National Forest Foundation, and love that you visited a National Forest! Thanks for spreading the word about how beautiful the Pisgah National Forest is for hiking. 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
You’re welcome & thank you for keeping the national forest so beautiful! xo
Sam says
You look amazing girl. Maybe breakups are a healthy thing!
Taralynn McNitt says
lol thank you Sam and they can be if you let them!
shanna says
I LOVE this post! beautiful photos and what an amazing location. I live in WA state so I know what you mean about feeling like you’re in a twilight movie. I live on the east side of the state so our forests resemble yours more than the west side of the state. but omg, you get to the west side and the actual rain forest! holy moly! it’s beautiful! there’s moss and ferns everywhere, the trails are wet and slugs are everywhere. heh. you said you were going west this summer. where are you headed?
I wouldn’t have done this hike alone either. not because of bears but because of human monsters. again, I’m from wa state. I think serial killers are around every corner.
thank you so much for sharing Becca’s story! what an amazing journey she has been on.
1. I don’t really have a favorite place. I should get one though. there’s tons of hiking trails in my area.
2. yes. I’ve become such a negative person. I hate it. I’m always working to turn this around, but I fall into negative moods pretty easy.
3. another thing I’ve been struggling with. I feel like I fail at everything. I’ve been married almost 15 years, have a 3 year old daughter and a 10 year old dog. I guess I’ve achieved keeping all that intact. go, me!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you Shanna!
You must have so many beautiful trails. My uncle lives in Seattle and I want to visit so bad. Your description has me sold!! I’m heading towards Montana.
Lol I also think there are killers everywhere and I always watch crime shows that freak me out!
1. You have so many to choose from:)
2. Just practice turning everything into a positive:)
3. You’ve ACHIEVED SO MUCH! There is no such thing as failure. If something doesn’t work out, it’s because it wasn’t meant to be and something better is out there for you. Same with jobs, relationships, and life hiccups!
Hayley says
I definitely relate to her story! I live in Oklahoma right now and am trying to move to NC next year. Do you have any tips on relocating to NC and places you would suggest living? I’m 22 so I don’t really want a small town. I’m also a teacher so I’m looking for a good school district.
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Hayley!
I know that a lot of people move to Charlotte because its a young and up and coming city! Also, it’s about 15 minutes from one of the best school districts…Fort Mill, SC!
Taralynn
Sofia says
Hi Taralynn! I as everyone else love you and your site and how you live your life! I am moving to Greenville, SC soon which is about an hour or so from Asheville. I love the area and the south in general!
I was wondering if theres any food blogs you follow to get ideas? I’m moving into my first apartment that will have a BEAUTIFUL kitchen and I’m so excited cook new recipes in it.
Thanks.
Sofia
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Sofia!
Congrats on you move 🙂 I hear wonderful things about Greenville and I need to make it down there sometime. I don’t necessarily follow blogs, but I do get some ideas for dinner and new recipes on Pinterest!
xo
Magdalena says
Hi! 🙂
My name is Magdalena, i’m from Poland. I like climbing too. 🙂
I’d like to recommend Tatra Mountains. Views are soooo delightful 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Magdalena! (such a pretty name)
I will definitely look into the Tatra Mountains! Thank you for the recommendation!
xo xo xo
Style Squared Clothing says
Wow! This hike looked amazing! Love your outfit that you wore! Check out http://www.stylesquaredclothing.com for adorable workout clothing!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks!
Rachel says
What a beautiful post! Your friend Becca is so amazing! I love how you brought the jelly beans. That place looks incredible to hike at! I love going for long hikes. Now that it is warmed up I can’t wait to take one. I live in colorado so I am lucky to have several national parks near by.
Taralynn McNitt says
I bet Colorado is amazing! & Becca is one of the greatest people I know!!
Ashley says
What type of shoes do you like to wear when you hike? Do you use different ones from when you run?
Taralynn McNitt says
I use Asics when I run and a walking pair of Asics when I walk! They’re my favorite.
Abbie says
How long did this hike take you?
Anonymous says
cool post
James R. Geib says
Thanks for making a great, fun post. Wonderful photos too. Found your post looking for ahots of Looking Glass Rock. Take care!
James says
Shots (Photographs)!
Corine says
Beautiful post!