Fridays are usually set aside for recap blogs, but I don’t feel like waiting that long. Grumples has been on his morning walk, I have a fresh pot of coffee brewing, and my blogging fingers are ready to go! It’s way too hot to do anything outside and I’d rather blog away before starting my afternoon chores. I was out and about all weekend, so most of them were neglected. I’m currently side-eyeing my basket of laundry in the corner.
Kyle and I were super excited for the Dead & Company show on Friday night. We had been patiently waiting for this weekend for months. We are both huge fans of John Mayer and bonded over him when we first met.
Dead & Company is a project formed by several Grateful Dead members Bill Kreutzmann, Bob Weir and Mickey Hart with the addition of John Mayer, Jeff Chimenti and Oteil Burbridge.
The concert was at the PNC Music Pavilion in Charlotte. I’ve been to several concerts at the Pavilion and they are always a blast. The outdoor concert environment is always wild.
After the concert, we met Becca uptown for dinner. I’m not sure if it was the excessive amount of pot smoke floating in the air at the concert that made us hungry, but we were starvin’ like Marvin!
Concert Outfit
Top: American Eagle
Shoes: Boutique in Paris
Shorts: American Eagle
Bag: Catos
Necklace: Simply Taralynn Collection
All of the bars and restaurants were packed because of the NBA finals. We decided to sit outside at Rock Bottom Brewery. I think they have the best salads. You know how much I love my salads! No shame. I ordered the grilled chicken Cobb salad. It came with bacon, lettuce, egg, avocado, grilled chicken, cojita cheese, tomatoes, and ranch on the side. They also have a really good Waldorf salad that I highly recommend as well. The best part of Becca being a vegetarian is that I get to have her chicken on the side.
Why do they call it a Cobb salad?
“One says that it came about in the 1930s at the Hollywood Brown Derby restaurant, where it became a signature dish. It is named for the restaurant’s owner, Robert Howard Cobb. Stories vary whether the salad was invented by Cobb or by his chef, Chuck Wilson.”
I woke up super early on Saturday so I could walk to the grocery store to pick up some coffee and breakfast ingredients. I normally don’t cook up breakfast throughout the week. I stick to simple foods like cereal or hard boiled eggs, but there is something about Saturday mornings that make me want to have a big breakfast.
After making my coffee, I sat down to watch the news and respond to blog comments. It’s a Saturday morning routine. Grumples LOVES listening to Kyle play the guitar.
They sat there on the ground for a good forty-five minutes together. Just when I think my heart can’t melt anymore, it just keeps going.
After catching up on all the blog comments from last week’s recap post, I decided to get up and make some breakfast before working out. I usually stick to the go-to breakfast that consists of vegetable eggs, toast, bacon and fruit.
I started by chopping up green onion, green bell pepper, sweet yellow onion and roma tomatoes.
I sautéed the bell peppers, green onion and sweet yellow onion with two tablespoons of olive oil in a pan.
Once the bell peppers and onions were cooked, I turned off the heat and added the roma tomatoes to the pan.
Egg mixture: 5 egg whites, 1 egg yoke, 1 cup sautéed veggies, 1 tablespoon light cream, 2 tsps garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of black pepper
Spray a pan with cooking spray or use olive oil and heat on medium-high. Pour in the omelet mixture and cook both sides until the edges are lightly brown.
I made one of the egg mixtures into an omelet and one into a scramble.
Sides: whole wheat English muffins with Melt spread, baked Applegate Bacon slices, watermelon, strawberries, blueberries and coffee. DELICIOUS!
Kyle and I walked to the gym together after breakfast. He set up a circuit for me to focus on arms. I’ve never really been a gym person, but I think he’s changed that. I used to be intimated by the weightlifters and the dedicated gym goers, but now I want to get in there more.
We walked through the Taste of Charlotte on our way back from the gym. It was SO HOT outside and we couldn’t stand to be out in it any longer. When the temperature is that hot, food isn’t appetizing. The only thing I crave when it’s that hot is watermelon. I ended up eating two cups of watermelon once we got back.
We took Grumples for a little walk around the block. This is the kind of weather that makes me feel bad for Grumples. It’s too hot for him to be outside and he doesn’t get as much exercise until the evening or early morning.
Kyle has made a huge difference in Grumple’s behavior. I mentioned that Grumps can be very hard to walk sometimes and he gets anxiety with some people. He’s a great dog and loves everyone, but as soon as he’s on a leash, he’s a different dog. Kyle got a new leash and harness for him and has been working with him. The difference is incredible. We have been able to walk by bikes, people, and other dogs without him acting out. He really listens to Kyle and I’ve never trusted anyone more with my dog.
After getting cleaned up after the gym, we headed to the South Park mall to shop. It was something to do that didn’t involve being out in the heat. Becca and I had our snapchat sessions while Kyle was trying on suits.
We went to Chopt for dinner. The day went by so fast and it was already 8pm! It really felt like five. I ordered the kebab cobb. It had local feta, charred red onions, mama lils spicy peppers, pita chips, romaine lettuce, avocado, falafel, chopped and tossed in red wine vinaigrette and Greek yogurt tzatziki.
I went into Lush while I was at the mall and picked up some of my favorite products. I love doing mini at home spas! Perfect way to end a Saturday night.
WHAT I BOUGHT:
Dragon’s Egg Bath Bomb
Ocean Salt
Lemony Flutter Cuticle Butter
Dream Cream Body Cream
Charity Lotion
Becca and I do breakfast dates on Sunday mornings. It’s our thing. I picked up Becca at 7:30am and headed to the Grapevine on the river walk. I ordered a small cappuccino with skim milk. I was really impressed with the Grapevines cappuccino! The espresso was really smooth and rich.
We took our coffee to go and decided to go for about a mile walk. I love that the Grapevine is right on the water.
It was already 85 degrees at 8am and we were burning up. My hot coffee wasn’t helping the situation either. I know that we will be doing this a lot in the fall and hopefully walking the whole trail once it’s cooler.
We decided to grab breakfast at the Famous Toastery in Tega Cay, SC. I ordered the egg white omelet with spinach, tomatoes, onion, bell peppers, avocado with a side fruit and wheat toast.
While we were sitting at breakfast, we were informed of the tragedy that happened in Orlando. We sat there for an hour talking about how sad it was. We were both sickened and in shock by the news. It has me heartbroken for Orlando and the LGBTQ community. I’ll never understand how anyone can hold so much hate in their hearts. I wish this world had more love and acceptance. No one should ever feel ashamed or live in fear because of who they are. It’s sad that it takes a tragedy like this to bring everyone together. This is how our world should act every single day. You don’t have to agree with people’s lifestyles or choices, but you should always love them. LOVE EVERYONE! Please spread love, stop the hate, live your life without fear, be happy, and make others happy. One person CAN make a difference. Let people be happy with their lives and make people feel happy with their lives. Your happiness is can be contagious. You have the ability to make this world a better place. My heart goes out to the victims, the family and anyone affected by the horrific tragedy in Orlando. My thoughts and prayers also go out to Christina Grimmie and her family. I had the honor of taking photos for her and the Voice tour when she was in Charlotte. She was such a loving, talented and powerful young women! Heaven is going to be full of angels.
After my morning with Becca, I headed uptown to hang out with Grumples and Kyle.
I picked Kyle up some English breakfast black tea from Nova’s Bakery in Southend. He loves tea the way that I love coffee.
I had my Chopt leftovers for lunch. Those salads are so big and make great leftovers! I also had an afternoon cup of coffee with it.
Later that evening, I went out on a run with Kyle’s friend. I was going to go five miles, but it was 94 degrees outside. My face was numb and tingling by mile four and so I called it quits. Our pace was 8:12. I always run faster when I’m running with someone else. Our first mile was actually 7:48! I was definitely facing some dehydration and it was all my fault for not drinking enough water. I took a really cold shower after the run. The heat exhausted me and I ended up curling up for a nap on the couch. Those Sunday catnaps are the best.
Later that night, Kyle and I walked to the grocery store to pick up some ingredients for dinner. I really love cooking at home instead of going out and I’ve been doing it a lot more lately. After talking to his neighbor on our way to the grocery store, we decided on homemade turkey burgers because that’s what he was cooking up. It sounded delicious and I had the best recipe for homemade turkey burgers.
Turkey burger ingredients:
*2 lbs ground turkey, 1/2 cup chopped green onion, 1 egg, 1/2 sweet yellow onion, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce, 1/4 cup Italian bread crumbs, 1 1/2 cups hot habanero, 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp Italian seasoning, and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
Add all the ingredients into a large mixing bowl and use your hands to combine.
**My dad used to make burgers like this and he’d microwave a tiny meatball sized burger to test out all the flavors before grilling. If it was bland, he’d add more! You could do this to determine if your burgers need more seasonings or cheese!
This burger recipe makes ten giant burgers! Grease a sheet of tin foil and place to burgers on top. Grill until the centers are fully cooked.
We also made sweet potato fries and asparagus!
I seasoned the asparagus with black pepper, olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning and low sodium soy sauce. I wrapped it up in tin foil.
I microwaved the sweet potatoes until slightly soft and then cut them into fries. I laid them in a greased baking dish and seasoned them with rosemary, minced onion, chives, garlic powder, onion powder and sea salt.
Dinner was DELICIOUS!
Yesterday morning, I took Grumples to the park to run before it got too hot! We can’t take this heat!
Back to the weekly basic breakfasts! I had cheerios with flaxseeds and a cup of coffee before going out for a two-mile run.
Someone was zonked.
I also made homemade protein stuffed peanut butter cups yesterday afternoon! I’ll be posting that recipe next!
THEY’RE SO GOOD!!!
UPDATE: RECIPE IS POSTED HERE!
Later that afternoon, I caught up on some grocery shopping. I grabbed fruit, seafood, veggies and all kinds of other healthy weekly foods.
I was invited to have dinner and grill out by the pool with a friend last night.
I also fell in love with this lil rottwieler puppy. I think I need one (one day)!!!! He was so cute and flopping around everywhere.
We had asparagus, salad, shrimp, scallops and grilled potatoes. I almost forgot to take a photo of my dinner plate, so this was a halfway through shot.
Becca came over around 7:45 and I set up a kick-ass circuit workout. It took us about an hour and a half to get through it and we took 30-second breaks between sets. We also have decided to start recording one circuit workout every week for a new Youtube series. We are no video gurus, but we are going to try!
We worked every part of the body. We cycled between arm workouts, leg, butt, abs and so on!
Our cool down was all ab focused and then we ended with ten minutes of straight cardio. There was another lady in the gym that watched us do the workout and asked if it would be ok that she joined us next time. She said she was inspired by us and I loved hearing that!
Today we are both sore everywhere.
I love having a friend that loves to workout and eat healthy as much as I do! Filling your life with people who support your lifestyle is so important and it really makes a difference. I’ve never been happier!
After the workout, I made a protein shake for Becca and I. It had a banana, vanilla a protein powder, strawberries, unsweetened almond milk, and ice. We made the shakes to-go and took Grumples for a walk.
I made some hard boiled eggs for a late night snack and extra to keep in the fridge for easy-access protein and then fell asleep while watching the NBA finals!
Today I’m going to work on some new posts and then hopefully get out for a really long walk tonight!
Questions for you?
- Have you ever been intimated by a gym?
- What do you think about me starting a YouTube Channel for little circuit workouts?
- What is one thing you are grateful for right now?
I couldn’t agree more with you on your comments regarding the Orlando massacre. It’s always so disappointing to see how quickly society returns to it’s normal, angry state so quickly after these tragic events. If we could all just remember to extend a little grace and love more often, we’d be a lot better off for it. I am thankful that Tampa has pulled together and is offering up a lot of love and support in this time since we’re so close.
I’m also envious of you and Becca getting to workout together. I can never find anyone who is as dedicated to consistently working out as I am. Keep her as long as you can! 😉
I agree. I love seeing the nation come together and I think we should always be ONE, no matter what happens.
I love my best friend! 🙂 She wants to workout with me and be lazy with me.
Ahh Tara I am so happy you are so happy. You deserve it. And dogs are the best judges of character ever.
Thank you Callie!! That is very true 😀
Yes! I love workout videos. I can’t wait to see what you will come up with.
Thank you!!
Hi Taralynn,
I love hearing about your workouts! You are such an inspiration to me, and all of your readers! You certainly make living healthily, fun!
1. I have certainly been intimidated by the gym. Currently I belong to Planet Fitness, who prides themselves on their “no judgement” policy. I’ve seen so many types of people, young and old, fit and not-so-fit, and I have never felt uncomfortable!
2. I would love love love to see your workouts on youtube. Especially, if it will include easy exercises we can do at home!
3. I am grateful for a million things right now. I just got engaged to my boyfriend of 3 years, and we just bought our first home together. Life seemingly cannot get any better!
Cheers to more summer fun!
-Amanda
Hi Amanda!
Thank you for the kind words! It is honestly fun if you make it fun:) Also a mindset.
1. That is great! You really should never feel uncomfortable at the gym and I don’t know why we do sometimes. I’m getting much better at it.
2. They will most certainly be easy workouts you can do at home with mats and weights! I love sufficient and easy.
3. Congrats on the engagement. That is so great!!!!! & congrats on the home 🙂 So happy for you!!!! xo xo
1. I’ve definitely been intimidated by the gym! I always get nervous trying new things and hate when people watch me. I have to focus on myself and not others so I can get comfortable.
2. A YouTube series would be amazing! I would definitely watch them!!
3. I’m currently grateful that I am able to work and have two jobs rights now. It’s a little frustrating always having to work and not being able to relax and take the time off, but I always need to remember that I’m lucky that I have the opportunity to work in the first place! I am thankful I enjoy where I work and am able to make money.
Just curious, do you still go to church on Sundays? I’m in no way judging and you don’t have to answer if I am intruding too much! Also, I’m very excited for the protein peanut butter cups recipe!
It’s funny because that was my thought exactly, but I think we assume people are watching and in reality they couldn’t care less! 🙂
Great!!!! We are excited.
That is an amazing reason to be grateful. You have such a positive outlook on life.
No that is not intruding at all. I do go to church! I haven’t been in a few weeks and thats a shame on me. Im just going to be flat out honest, I am looking for a new Catholic church near me because I don’t really feel like running into a certain someone at my current church.
And those pb cups are AWESOME!!!! can’t wait to share that recipe.
Yes, I have been, but I also got over it. It is easier when you have someone with you that’s for sure. Lately I have found myself going by myself and really enjoying it. I also go when barely anyone is there, when it’s mot bro time. Lol.
I think that would be amazing because you already inspire a lot of people and your work outs obviously work. And also if you want to go For it. I think it’s awesome.
I am grateful for my friends and family.
Yes, once you do it, you get over it! It’s like that with a lot of things. You just have to take the first step and the rest is easy. You can’t go during bro time ever! haha
Thanks girl 🙂 That is very nice of you!
& I bet your friends and family are just as grateful for you!
Not sure if my comment went through because the page didn’t load when I submitted but I’m going to try again 😉
Yay!! Another recap! You have no idea how happy this makes me haha
Absolutely! In college most girls never went to the weight room because it was a tiny little room always packed with muscle-men. I did take a weight training class though that got me in the room and it wasn’t as bad since it was part of a class! However I don’t think bigger gyms with more options for machines and weights are as bad since there’s usually room to spread out from my experience.
I love it! I love getting ideas from people who know what they’re doing and/or have had experience weight lifting/training!
My life and all the good people in the world!
Good thing you reposted because I don’t think the other comments went through!
I love how happy my recaps make you!:) That makes me happy!
I like the bigger rooms too or the smaller rooms with no people! 🙂 I think the muscle men are fun to watch! You can actually learn a lot from them.
I think the videos would be fun and very relatable!
Great thing to be grateful for!
xo
I LOVE your top from American Eagle! What size did you get? I’ve been looking for an off the shoulder top for forever and the one you’re wearing is perfect! I want to buy it as well but I’m not sure what size to get!
Thank you Haley. I wish it came in more colors! I think it runs a little larger because I bought an extra small and I’m usually just a small. I’m also 5’8 with a smaller upper half (if you know what I mean lol)
When I saw the picture of Kyle playing the guitar, I thought “Wow! Cute, plays the piano AND the guitar? Can he cook too?”, only to scroll down a little further and see another picture of him cooking lol You’ve got yourself a keeper!
I’ve definitely been feeling intimidated by the gym lately. I never have any idea what to do besides cardio. It also doesn’t help that I’m uncomfortable and embarrassed with the size I’m at right now. Any tips on how to overcome that intimidation?
I really don’t think there is anything he can’t do. He really is a keeper and the greatest.
I used to ONLY do cardio and I’ve noticed more progress now that I’m doing strength training and playing around with weights. I think it helps to watch some youtube videos and take what you learn to the gym! The more you go in there and do it, the more confident you’ll be. Just remember that those people are going to the gym to work on themselves and they don’t care what you’re doing. They may also be thinking the same thing as you! Just go in there and DO YOU! XO
I love doing at home workouts with my own weights and equipment–no commute times! I do sometimes feel intimidated by gym goers too! Thatd be a fun youtube series!
Yes it’s the best! Luckily my apartment has a great gym. I think the more and more you go to the gym and put yourself out there, it gets less intimidating! xo
First off, love that you have a tea drinker in your life. Tea is life. Hot not sweet tea haha. I have to specify here in southern Alabama.
Have you ever been intimated by a gym? Yes, but my apartment complex has a little fitness room next to the pool so there’s hardly anyone in it. Haha the people here are mostly military and the usually run outside.
What do you think about me starting a YouTube Channel for little circuit workouts? I LOVE that idea! I’m so excited. Was going to ask if you’d ever be active on youtube again.
What is one thing you are grateful for right now? I’m grateful that I am surrounded by such amazing people. Which sounds cliche lol but.. like I’m really glad that they’re not like everyone else in the area I grew up.
Yes, I think his tea drinking is adorable.
Apartment gyms are the best! I find that they are never full.
I think they’ll be fun to do with another person!
That doesn’t sound cliche at all. It’s great to be surrounded by amazing people!
1. TOTALLY. A year ago I felt embarrased doing anything but a cardio machine because I felt like I didn’t know what I was doing. Now I’m really confident and do my circuit workouts for everyone to see…not on purpose, but because you can’t really hide at the gym!
2. That sounds awesome! I’m all about circuit training and it’s always good to mix it up.
3. My family. My sister recently had a baby and my niece just lights up my life. I feel so lucky to have a family like mine. I’m starting the Big Sisters program soon and hearing the background of my little made me realize how blessed I have been. Always good to stop and count your blessings every now and then!
By the way, what vanilla protein powder do you like? I only have a chocolate one but I want to get vanilla for fruity smoothies 🙂
That is great to hear! Love that you’re confident and enjoying those workouts.
I love to mix it up as well 🙂
You sound very blessed and congrats on becoming an aunt!
I use all kinds of protein powders. I make sure they are around 100-150 calories with 20-25g protein, no added sugars and 1-4g carbs!
My dog has the same exact behavior you described when on a leash, which causes me to avoid crowded areas such as the doggy beach or even our neighborhood where there is always a lot of other dogs out and about with their owners. She is great off the leash and playing with other dogs in a fenced in area, but as soon as she is on the leash I have to hold on for dear life and get nervous about how she might react when another dog makes eye contact (we currently use the easy walk harness when she is on a leash). I would love to hear about the changes you’ve made to Grumples’ routine that have resulted in a difference in his behavior! By the way, I have been following your blog for a few year’s now and it really is my daily pick-me-up 🙂
Yeah, that is EXACTLY how Grumples is. & it’s hard to explain to someone that he is harmless when he acts like that. Kyle has been working with him and I think he really sets out to protect me and thats why he does better with Kyle. It’s frustrating but he’s really made a difference! Hopefully he’ll be better soon and I’ll write all about it.
& thank you so much! That means a lot!!!
Aw, loved this, Taralynn! Becca seems like a great friend, and I completely agree. Who you choose to surround yourself with makes ALL the difference.
1.Have you ever been intimated by a gym?
YES. I hate feeling like I’m slowest on the treadmill, that I don’t know what I’m doing with the weights as well as the person next to me, ect.
2.What do you think about me starting a YouTube Channel for little circuit workouts?
Pshhh… LOVE IT. <3
3.What is one thing you are grateful for right now?
My friends + family. I know it sounds cliché, but after a tragedy like that, you want to keep the ones you love even closer.
Enjoy your week, girl!
Xo,
Melissa
http://www.GreenPalateLife.com
Thanks Melissa!
She is the best and it’s always nice to surround yourself with good people and people that push you to be better.
1. The great thing is the next person probably doesn’t know what they are doing either! You just have to “do you.”
2. GOOD!!!
3. Not cliche. That is a GREAT thing to be grateful for!!!
I hope you have a great week lady!!
xo
I have definitely been intimidated by a gym! There is a Steve Nash Fitness World across the street. I was going to sign up, but my boyfriend did and said he has no plans to go back, as everyone there was really rude and judgy. When I workout I want to be focused on myself, not having to worry about rude people. So I am intimidated by that gym.
Thankfully we have a tiny gym in my building I can use!
Seeing this post reminded me that I forgot asparagus at the store, so disappointing!
I can’t wait to see your Youtube series! Will you post to let us know what it’s called and all the info?
How awesome that Grumples has a guy to look up to and spend leash time with? So awesome!
http://www.justbeingbrooklyn.com
That is a bummer! I prefer the smaller gyms sometimes and i’m fortunate enough to have a great one in my complex.
Grumples loves Kyle so much and it warms my heart!
1. I used to, but I think that now that I’m older and a little more confident in myself that I’m better about not being self-conscious. It’s easy to feel like everyone is watching or judging, but then I remember that people don’t care nearly as much as we think they do.
2. I’d definitely watch your videos, I’m sure they’ll be really good!
3. Grateful for the last week of school, even though now I have a lot of work left to grade before I can clock out for the school year!
PS: What’s your snapchat?
That is great to hear! I 100% agree that people don’t really care what you’re doing at all and it’s all in our own heads.
Thank you!!
It’ll be over before you know it!! 🙂
my snapchat is @taralynnmcnitt 😀
It would be great to see some youtube workout videos from you! Im due to have baby number two in october and it would be awesome to have some video-spration to get back into the gym!
hi Liz! Congrats:) Baby #2 will be exciting!!! xo
Sounds like a fun, relaxing weekend!
The gym has always intimidated me. Especially when there guys there showing off! I’d rather work out in the safety of my own home. (Although I don’t have all the equipment ? )
I think that doing YouTube is a risk, but so was starting a blog ? I know I would definitely watch + try out your workouts. I think you should at least try it, and if it’s not for you, then at least you know!
Something that I am grateful for? My dog. May be cheesy, but she’s my best friend. (And I know you understand!)
Love the updates! And I think I like being slowly introduced to Kyle rather than him just showing up all of the sudden. It’s fun to learn small things that make you happy about him!
It most certainly was!
I think the youtube videos would be fun because people will be able to relate and workout at home!
NOT CHEESY!! I’m so so so grateful for Grumples!
🙂 that makes me happy to hear!
Hello Taralynn. I love your blog, congrats for doing it!!!!! If you want to buy an excellent rottweiler, you can find it here: http://www.en.rottweilersvondergyves.com
Hi Gabriela!
Thank you. There are so many rottweilers in the shelters here so I will most likely rescue! 🙂
xo
I love reading your recaps! They always make my day looking at the great pictures and reading about what you’ve been up to. I’ve been following your blog for about 3 years now and it makes me want to start a blog, too haha!
1. I ran track and XC in high school, so I was really intimidated by the gym and weights when I first got to college. Ironically, I’m now an NSCA certified personal trainer and LOVE what I do! I always make it a point to bring my clients that are hesitant into the weight room to make them more confident and comfortable with being there (despite the ‘muscle-men’).
2. I think it’s a good idea! You’re really relatable and I think it would inspire and motivate the audience you reach out to 🙂
3. I’m really grateful for the privileges I have that others don’t; like being able to run, go to college (graduating in August, woo!), air conditioning, running water, access to healthy foods, ect. I’m also very grateful that my sister is safe and was out of town this weekend (she lives in Orlando).
Have a great week!
Hi Peyton!
Thank you so much. I think it’s fun to write them:) Starting a blog is always fun, even if it’s just for yourself or close friends and family.
That is awesome! Such a rewarding job too!
I think so too! I’m no “Fitness guru” so I think people could definitely relate and have fun with me!
Those are all amazing reasons to be grateful and I’m so happy your sister is safe!
xo
I love your new happier outlook! It is so inspiring and motivating – makes me want to focus on positivity. I also couldn’t agree more with your comments about all of the violence and hate in the world.
As far as your questions:
1) I used to be incredibly intimidated by the gym, but then in junior college I took a “gym class” where a coach explained each machine and helped with proper form. It was a great learning experience.
2) I think workout videos on YouTube would be a great idea! It’s always cool to see what somebody else does and to get new ideas.
3) I’m thankful for my supportive family, friends, and boyfriend – they’ve been so great lately!
Congrats on finding such a great guy! It’s awesome he’s so good with Grumples, too.
Thank you Sarah!
That is a great class to take! I’m sure it really helps with learning the equipment and all about the muscles.
I think it would be super fun too!
Thats a great reason to be grateful and I’m definitely going to agree with you on that one!
& he’s great! I am so lucky.
so great to see you happy and enjoying life taralynn!! i’m sure you hear this a lot but you’re such an inspiration to myself and others and you really deserve every blessing 🙂
1. YES especially the free weights section which is the reason why i’ve always been a cardio bunny lol i go lift weights occasionally but i feel like everyone can tell i have no idea what i’m doing LOL
2. That sounds like a wonderful idea quite frankly
3. My family that never gives up on me!
Thank you Irene!! Means so much!!
I think that whole “people think i don’t know what I’m doing” is only in our own heads! 🙂
Glad you think so!!
Sounds like you have a wonderful family! xo
Hi Tara! I would love to if you started doing workout youtube videos! Also, I wanted to know your opinion about home gym. Do you think it’s efficient? It can be as good as a regular gym? What equipments are the most apropriate? I’m thinking about giving up the regular gym and start a home gym, and I would like your suggestions 🙂 xo!
Hi Luana!
I think any movement/workout is efficient! I like to use little weights and don’t pay too much attention to the equipment.
Wow, I cant believe how how it is in Charlotte! For me in the Netherlands its only 60° and raining, which I absolutely prefer over too much heat.
Have you ever been intimated by a gym?
I have actually never been to a gym! I prefer going out for runs, taking dance classes at college or just do a workout in my dorm.
What do you think about me starting a YouTube Channel for little circuit workouts?
I love the idea! New workout inspiration is always appreciated 🙂
What is one thing you are grateful for right now?
I am super grateful for getting the chance to go to college and study. Noone of my family went to college before so it was a big step for all of us to bring up the money and even let me do my bachelors abroad. I am happy I have this amazing chance ahead and great people that support me in my back.
Yes I would take that over the heat too!
Those all sound like great workouts!
🙂 great!
That is great and I’m very proud of you for going after your dreams and making goals!
xo
What kind of leash/harness did Kyle buy for Grumples? My dog is the sweetest, but sometimes he can get a little excited and tug on the leash too hard.
He got him the Ruffwear Front Range Harness and a Rockstrap leash! They are great!
I definitely used to be intimidated by the gym! My college had an awesome gym, but I never took advantage of it because the weight area was downstairs and always full of muscle-men. The tredmills and cardio machines were upstairs and overlooked the weight room, so my friends and I would just run and look down at the hulking dudes lifting weight and be too scared to every go down there. Eventually, living in DC, I started using Army and Marine base gyms through work and got much more comfortable. It wasn’t until I had a guy walk me through and show me how to use nearly every barbell, dumbbell, and machine that I really got confident enough to tackle a weight room though. Now I do CrossFit, but I have no qualms about using a bench press or squat rack even if the gym is filled with muscle-dudes! It’s empowering and much more fun for me to lift.
Yes, those muscle men are intimidating for sure! I actually like to watch and learn from them. I try to do some of their moves with smaller weights!
Love that you live in D.C.! It’s my favorite place. i’ll be there sometime next month! You’re such a baddass for doing cross fit!
Excited about your Youtube videos – yay!
Thanks Rebecca!!
I would love to see some circuit workouts that you share! I can do the run and walking thing, but gym workouts I struggle with 🙂
And grateful for family and friends the most!
Thanks Megan! I think we all struggle with that too:)
I couldn’t agree with you more about your comments on the Orlando incident. Nobody should have to be afraid to be themselves, and we have to love more and hate LESS!
1. I used to be intimidated by the gym – specifically the free weights area until I met a friend in school and she really motivated me to get into it! I’m by no means a crazy weight lifter but am really proud of how far I have come in the last 3 years!
2. I would love to see a YouTube series from you and Becca! I am looking for different ways to workout different parts of my body. I’ve been stuck in a “rut” lately because I tend to get comfortable with a routine and I end up plateauing with my weights. Change is good!
3. I am thankful for my friends and family.
PS – what brand leash and harness did Kyle pick out for Grumples? I have been having the same issues with my dog – he has been increasingly aggressive/territorial on walks.
Oops! I just read your previous comment! I just bought my dog the ruff wear front range harness as well with no change 🙁
You’re right Amanda!
1. That is so amazing that you found someone to workout with. It’s great to push each other.
2. Change is good! Hopefully we can do some fun workouts that you guys enjoy!
3. Me too!
The Rokstrap leash and a Ruffwear harness!
I HAVE to ask if you have any special tricks to your sweet potato fries. Are yours crispy? They look awesome. I have tried like 3 or more recipes for sweet potato fries and they always end up soggy and not great! I am so close to just calling it quits and using the bagged fries for the rest of my life! HA!
I used to be super intimidated by the gym. Mostly in my college years when all the jocks would be heavy lifting and I was racing away on the elliptical. But as I’ve gotten older and more into fitness, I’m less conscious about what other people are doing and try to just focus on myself. I think your You Tube videos are a fun idea! I’m looking to increase my strength work outs and I look a good circuit workout (Jillian Michaels 30 Day Shred is the life and death of me).
Grateful for a lot of things. I think right now I am mainly thankful for God’s constant provision and having a knowledge that He has a great plan for my life even when I feel I am in the midst of chaos.
Hi Emily!
Olive oil, high heat, and flipping them! Sometimes brown sugar glazes and crisps them up!
The more you focus on yourself, the better your workout is! Others are doing the same.
Love what you’re grateful for!
I love having hard boiled eggs in the fridge as a snack, or just ready to toss on a salad. That and string cheese are my got to snacks! I think the idea of a youtube channel would be great! I love pulling up video’s on there and doing random workouts. Super jealous of your grill out by the pool! I need a new grill, also love all the warm weather you have been having! It’s been actually cold here in California at the beach! Keep up fun posts, you also reminded me that I need to hit up LUSH my skin has been crazy lately! Keep up the fun posts, and having fun with your cute new guy!
Hi Ashton!
They are perfect for quick snacks! They always help me curb the cravings. Cold in Cali?!?! what!!!!I need to go there then. It’s so humid and hot here.
LUSH is my fave!!! & I hope you have a great weekend!
Happiness is truly contagious, so surrounding yourself with like minded positive people is SO important! Your happiness these days is SO apparently and truly shines through in your posts! Just reading your posts lightens my moods and makes me focus on spreading happiness as much as I can! So Thank you!
I have been intimidated by the gym like most other girls, by the only people lifting weights being super muscular men! I have recently starting doing more weights at home and building up my strength and learning some moves (thanks youtube) makes me more confident when I then head to the gym!
I would defiantly follow along to any youtube workout you and becca do! I recently started getting into Tone It Up youtube videos and Ive noticed I like them so much because you really get to see some of the trainers personality! So i think two friends doing it together would give it lots of real personality! Can’t wait to see what you come up with!
I’m grateful for so much right now! I’m grateful that my husband and I are both employed and healthy. I’m also grateful that I am able to work from home and take time to enjoy summer, instead of being trapped in an office!
Hi Carly!
Your words mean so much to me. Just hearing you say that has made my day! Your comments always put a smile on my face.
I have been doing the same thing. I’ve learned so much through, Kyle, going to my personal trainer and youtube that I can be in the gym with confidence now!
Our videos would definitely be silly, relatable and down to earth!
Love what you’re grateful for!! xo Enjoy your weekend and your summer!
I would kill for those legs! Please do youtube videos so I can have your body! It’s goals.
Lol thank you Sara!! I still have a ton of work to do!
I’m new to your blog. Let me just say I’m inspired to eat healthy and workout. Keep up the great blogs.
Thank you so much Tracy!!
Hi Taralynn!
Yes I would love if you did a youtube workout series (maybe eventually you could add more videos about other things too – more about your diet and running or travel tips etc)
Also I cannot wait to see the protein peanut butter cup recipe! Looks wonderful!
What kind of yogurt do you usually buy? (brand, flavor, anything)
Thanks so much! Love reading your blog posts, I feel like it helps keep me on track sometimes too!! 🙂
Amber
Hi Amber!
That all sounds like a great idea. I’ll start small at first!:D
The protein peanut butter cup recipe is up! They’re so yummy.
I buy all kinds of brands and it all depends on what i’m craving at the moment. I go in and out of yogurt phases. I really like greek Dannon or Siggis
xo xo thanks for stopping by!
i think you would be a great vlogger!
ugh, gym anxiety is the story of my life. I have quite a nice dvd collection for my home workouts though. haha
I am grateful for my healthy, beautiful daughter. she’s funny, sweet and always brings me joy.
Thanks Shanna!
I sometimes can’t push myself hard enough at the home workouts!
Your daughter sounds like a breath of fresh air and I’m sure she’s grateful to have you!
xo
I love your recap posts! Its awesome to see someone find the time for workouts, a relationship and friends. I work full time and finding a good balance is hard. I noticed you haven’t posted anything about drinking wine in a while? (its my guilty pleasure) I was wondering if you are not trying to drink alcohol anymore to get in shape? any advice you would have about this would be great.
Thank you Alise!!
You’re right! I really haven’t posted wine in a while and Becca and I just had that conversation the other day. I haven’t cut it out intentionally, but I really haven’t craved it or gone out of my way to have it. I definitely have cut back, but not ruling it out! I’m sure a glass of malbec will be calling my name this weekend! I don’t think wine or alcohol is a diet/fitness breaker. I think it’s how we choose to drink it! If you drink tons of sugary drinks with drunk foods, then it’ll put a damper on your goals. I like to have a light dinner with wine with I’m going to drink 🙂 If I’m hungry later, I make sure to still eat healthy!
1. Yes!!!! Especially the weight section…I feel like it’s just a bunch of meathead guys.
2. Do it! I love at home workouts! I don’t go to a gym anymore so that will help me out! 🙂
3. I am grateful for a healthy baby boy! It’s pure bliss being a mom! I’m also grateful for a healthy marriage. I’m very very lucky!!!
Hahahahaha it can be intimidating, but you just have to do it!
I’ll definitely do it!
Great thing to be grateful for and congrats on being a mommy! xo xo
Oh my gosh!!! YESSSS to the workout videos. I would totally do them if they don’t require a ton of equipment Thank you!!
No not a ton of equipment at all!! 😀
Hey Tara. Love your blog! I’m happy to hear you’re getting into weights, I love doing them myself. But I haven’t been able to go to a gym since my “free” campus membership ran out and my bf now goes to LA fitnes and a gym membership isn’t something I should be spending money on right now. Any recommendations or posts on some at home workouts or those involving the park circuits some cities have set up?
Thanks! Love seeing you happy you’re so inspirational. Give grumples a hug for me!
Hey Amie!
You can definitely buy some weights to keep at home. I think home workouts are so fun with weights and I love doing them randomly throughout the day! I’ll be doing some for the youtube series!
xo xo Grumples just got a big hug! xo
Hi Taralynn!
I’ve never commented before, but I just had to say I’m glad to see you looking so happy! I’ve been in the place you were a few months ago and I know how hard it is to overcome all that and find happiness again (in fact, I just started a blog about it..there’s not much on there yet though!). I’d have to say the gym does intimidate me a bit, I tend to stick to at home workouts. I think you creating a youtube channel is a great idea! I’d definitely check it out for ideas. Finally, I’m grateful for my family and friends who are always around to love and support me!
Hi Jordan!
Thank you for stopping by to comment.
Starting a blog is a great way to reach happiness and “deal.” I’m excited to start the youtube videos!!
& that is a great reason to be grateful!
I would love it if you started a Youtube channel! You’re blogs are always very inspiring and it would be so exciting if Youtube could be another outlet for fitness inspiration! As you mentioned, I too have been intimidated by the gym but I always try to keep in mind that it doesn’t matter what anyone else is thinking of me while I’m exercising, as long as I’m getting healthy and fit, that’s all that matters 🙂
Thank you so much! I think it’ll be so fun! You keep thinking that! DO YOU 😀 xo xo
I just want to start by saying I find it refreshing that you post such nice things about the tragedies that happened in Orlando over the weekend. As someone who could potentially lose some followers, it’s great that you still stand by what you believe in and recognize the horrible events! And as always I love your blog.
Yes I feel intimidated if I am doing weights at the gym, because I feel like I just do my own weird thing that probably looks odd 😉
I would love a YouTube channel! I go on to find some sometimes but it annoys me when I get halfway through and still don’t like one, it would be nice to know I will like it from the start!
I am grateful that my fiancé comes home tonight and that the weather is amazing!
Thank you Brittany!! Means a lot!
Looking “odd” is all in your head! 🙂 Keep up your workouts. You’re most likely inspiring others around you!
Our weather is finally good this weekend! 🙂 Stuck in the 80’s and not the upper 90’s!
Enjoy your weekend with your fiancé! xo
You’re such a flipping inspiration! I’ve been following you for four years now about and hands down my favorite blogger. Mostly because I can relate so much to you. You seem so happy and healthy currently and I need that in my life. Currently I’m in a slump going on five months now… With serious weight gain and unhappiness and stupid men always stirring up my happy place… Tips on how to break this? I need to get back to my fit, happy self. Is difficult when you have a reputation for fitness and my friends always approach me for advice for them. I feel so guilty at where I am now, like who am I to give advice when I’ve fallen off the wagon and lost myself. It sucks, ya know? Anyway, any little piece of advice would help. This post did wonders already. You’re amazing girl and I love following your journey. Thank you for opening up your life to us. P.S. Seriously, if you are ever in Colorado… *cough cough* it’d be rad to meet up with you!
Hey Emily!!
That means so much to me! You have no idea. Life has been so great lately and I feel great. Slumps always happen to us! You’re definitely not alone. The best thing you can do right now is “you.” Don’t let men get in the way of your happiness. Unless you’re 100% happy, a man won’t make you happy. You have to take this time to build yourself up! Find that routine again. Set aside time to workout and try to make healthy choices as much as you can. It’s going to be hard to get back into it, but afar the first week, you’ll be back at it! You should never feel guilty. I’ve definitely been there before and I always slip up from time to time, but don’t let the pressure of being “fit” make you unhappy or guilty. You first need to love who you are at this very moment and then work on improving from there. If you start today and keep working out and eating right, you’ll be back in the routine in no time. Just keep your goals in the front of your mind and keep motivating yourself. I actually think the healthier lifestyle is fun. It needs to be. Also, find people that support you! Surrounding yourself with positive people that have the same goals as you is great motivation and help.
XO XO & I’d love to go to Colorado one day.
I used to never understand why people would be intimidated by a gym because we are all there for the same purpose, and I used to be a personal trainer. But after college I got out of shape and moved to a new city, I finally got a gym membership and felt super intimidated by everyone. I didn’t know where any of the equipment was and it was busy all the time. I got over it after a couple of visits but I still get intimidated in the free weights area and kind of stick to the machines.
I’m looking forward to your youtube videos!
I’m grateful for my loving family!
I think we all go through that at some point and definitely get past it the more we go!
xo xo
You can sincerely tell how happy you are by your posts, girl. Keep doing you!
Thank you so much Abby!!
do youtube videos! 🙂 great post .. i like it
love your blog
I want your striped sandels!! Love the blog and you always inspire me to eat healthy 🙂
Thank you! They’re Sperry! 😀
xo
You are such a positive influence in my life.
Wow! Thank you 🙂 That just made my day!
Hey! I could have sworn you posted somewhere what the harness and leash is that Kyle got Grumples but I can’t find it. Would you mind sharing what brand/the info? My dogs pull so bad and are nuts on a leash so I need to work with them too. Thanks!
Hi Amy!
I posted about it in this post right here:) http://simplytaralynn.com/2016/09/08/labor-day-weekend-stuff/
The leash and the harness is a lifesaver!
hahaha thanks!