LET THE RECAP BEGIN
I’m not sure if I should say “good morning” or “goodnight.” It’s 2 am here and I’ve never written a blogpost this late, especially not a recap one. These take some serious remembering skills (considering I don’t do them frequent enough.) My brain is usually sleeping before my body at this hour, but the culprit is posing in the photo below. ☕️?
I just turned on one of my favorite movies. “AS IF!”…can you guess which movie? Now it’s time to give this late-night writing thing a go.
The girls and I went out to dinner at 5Church for my Becca’s birthday tonight. I knew I’d love this place because it has the same owners as Nan & Byrons and you all know how much I love that spot!
We started out with the shrimp flatbread. I liked this idea and can’t wait to create my own version at home. I loved the flavors, but it needed a pinch of salt or maybe some capers on top. The flatbread was topped with arugula, red onion, and Boursin cheese.
I forgot all about the lack of salt as soon as my meal came out. I don’t know what came over me, but I skipped out on the usual salads and went straight for the steak. I’m so glad I did because this was one of the best steak experiences I’ve ever had. The chef nailed his job by auditioning with this signature steak. It’s called the “60 second” NY strip. It’s seared from the bottom up for 60 seconds, and never flipped. It reads at a medium-rare (just the way I like it) temperature from top to bottom once it’s done. Even though the side looks completely rare, it’s not. Each bite was crispy, heavily flavored, and mouthwatering. Their broccoli was really good too and I love that they piled it high. I hate when restaurants cheat you out on the veggies.
Our waitress brought out the dessert with a candle on top for Becca’s birthday! If you follow me on snapchat…you saw the struggle! The dessert was a milk chocolate caramel pretzel bar. It was served with vanilla gelato!
I’m about to do the sloppiest transition and go all the way back to Wednesday! I spent the day building the new design for the blog and working with a couple pros to perfect it. It’ll hopefully be all done in a couple of weeks.
I managed to sneak out of for a run and a grocery trip. I found these 80 calorie UNREAL dark chocolate peanut butter cups. They’re pretty good, but I think the homemade ones are better! (biased, maybe)
I threw a salad together after my run. It had hard boiled eggs, romaine, rice, ground turkey, croutons and a side of apple slices.
I headed to Kyle’s after finishing up work. We’ve been watching The Night Of, an HBO T.V. series, on Wednesday nights. It’s an incredible show and written so well. It’s very realistic and I find myself thinking about the show randomly throughout the week. I’m so excited to catchup on the latest episode tomorrow.
Some Thursday eats:
Peach oatmeal + 2 tablespoons of chia seeds & coffee.
Chia-colada protein shake! ???
*1 small banana *1 frozen pineapple core *10 ounces unsweetened vanilla almond milk *1 scoop CVS vanilla protein powder *2 tablespoons chia seeds *1 cup ice *1 packet stevia! You can even add a little coconut water!
The heat is my worse enemy right now, but it’s going to cool down very soon. I can feel it! I ran four miles and then headed over to my gym for a thirty-minute circuit. I’m excited for the August fit challenge to start! It’s only been two days and I feel like I’m missing out. My body definitely needs the break, but I’m excited to get back to a workout schedule. The challenge will be up on Friday!
I grabbed an iced coffee and headed to the park with Grumples to walk in the shade. I feel bad for him during the summer because our walks are so much shorter.
I love the iced coffees at Starbucks. I add a little cream to the refreshing afternoon pick-me-up. ❄️☕️ ??
I food prep ground turkey and rice at the beginning of the week and add it to my meals randomly. It’s easier to eat repetitive meals when you live alone.
My repetitive meal last week (and this week) was (is) Caesar salad with my ground turkey, rice, avocado, carrots and hummus.
I fit in a light four mile run on Friday and then called it quits. I was so exhausted and all I wanted to do was eat dinner, watch a movie and go to bed! I couldn’t think of a better way to spend my Friday night and I’m so happy Kyle was on the same page as me. 
I didn’t feel like cooking so I headed to Jason’s Deli to pick up a salad. Their salad bar is awesome. It’s so inexpensive and you can fill it with so many veggies, sides and sauces to go. I ordered grilled chicken on the side for some protein.
We ended up going for a night walk uptown because it was beautiful out. I was so tired on Friday night that I can’t even remember what movie we ended up watching. I’ve been trying to figure it out and nothing is coming to me!
We took a walk to Dean & Deluca for coffee on Saturday morning. Check out that old Backstreet Boy’s poster! That was almost two decades ago!
Dean & Deluca is right up my alley. It’s great for quick snacks, breakfast, lunch or treats! Every Dean & Deluca I go to is different, so it’s fun to check them out and see what goodies they have. My all-time favorite D & D is in Georgetown! I think they have the cutest little gifts and unique products.
I want to try one of their omelets soon. Maybe next Saturday:)
I have already had one of their lattes (confirmed delicious) so I stuck to being basic and ordered a regular coffee.☕️
Do you half and half or do you skim? I do half and half and half skim. 😉
We walked to the grocery store to grab breakfast ingredients.
Kyle wanted to make me a Taylor ham (pork roll), egg & cheese breakfast sandwich. Apparently it’s popular in the North and one of his breakfast favorites. I had never even heard of it! I wasn’t going to turn down anyone making me breakfast.
Look how perfect he cooked the egg! I love when it’s slightly runny.
I was shocked at how good this was. I wasn’t shocked because Kyle made it, but shocked because something called “taylor ham” tasted good. I’ve definitely been missing out! Taylor ham (if you haven’t had it) tastes like ham & bacon combined. That almost sounds silly to say considering it comes from the same animal…but you get it.
We decided to take it easy and ditch the gym. We went on a 6.77 mile walk instead.
We stopped at Vitamin Shoppe halfway to pick up some water. Of course we walked out with snacks too! I HAD to try the new Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Quest bar! This may sound weird, but it tasted like a brown sugar cinnamon PopTart, which I loved. Have you guys tried it yet?
We also tried a Nature’s Best Javapro Coffee Protein Shake
Penta Water? HELLO! This is the best tasting bottled water I’ve had yet.
We passed the new Not Just Coffee location on the way back.
It was a no-brainer. We were going in! I may have already had my coffee fix for the day, but I really wanted to check out the new location.
The place was so clean and shiny, yet rustic and warm. So city-esque.
I ordered a refreshing iced coffee. There was no way I could drink a hot coffee after walking nearly seven miles in the 90-degree heat.
I had my Jason’s Deli leftovers for lunch!
Kyle and I made Flatout Pizzas for dinner! We were both in the mood for pizza but wanted to take the healthier route. This is a great recipe for a quick and light pizza fix! You can customize them any way you’d like.
?*Mine had pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese, turkey pepperonis, and Canadian bacon.
?*Kyle’s pizza had grilled chicken mixed with buffalo sauce, pizza sauce and mozzarella cheese.
We made extra pizzas for Steve, Meighan, and Becca!
Bake for 13-15 minutes at 375 degrees!
The Light Flatbread Italian Herb “crust” is only 90 calories for the entire pizza.
My pizza came to 220 calories for the whole thing. Most pizza slices are more than that. ?
Kyle dipped his buffalo chicken pizza in blue cheese dressing…I know that’s a popular combo, but YUCK! Keep that blue cheese madness away from me.
We broke out the moves for “National Dance Day” before the five of us jumped on the couch (made to sit three) to watch a movie. If you haven’t watched 10 Cloverfield Lane yet…you need to! Such a great movie and unpredictable. 
?
*we nailed the “late night/half asleep awkward photo.” I literally have shih tzu hair in that photo.
*all my snapchatters saw the great booty drop. @taralynnmcnitt
I woke up at five am to blog, have coffee and get ready for bootcamp! I had a pre workout Strawberry & Cream Oatmeal and hour before heading out.
Bootcamp was so hard and it was so hot outside! The endorphins pushed me to continue and go for a three-mile run afterward. I don’t know what inspired me to go so hard on a Sunday morning, but it felt great. Must have been all the pizza. 
Pre shower/Post Shower.
I ended up taking a 25-minute catnap when I got back. I NEVER take naps or sleep in (it’s almost impossible), but I really needed it.
I had my coffee all over again when I woke up. I’ve been obsessed with these little Shasha Cookies Ginger Snaps
*i promise I drink water too…it’s just not as pretty to capture. ?
I headed to the grocery store later in the afternoon to pick up some ingredients for an early Sunday dinner.
We decided to make homemade chicken nuggets and guacamole.
All you need: boneless/skinless chicken breast (diced), whole grain italian bread crumbs, one large egg, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder and 1-2 tablespoons olive oil.
In a large mixing bowl, coat the diced chicken breast in olive oil and egg. Add a sprinkle of onion powder, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Dip the chicken in the breadcrumbs and coat them well.
Bake 16-20 minutes. All ovens cook differently, so check on them!
I made the guacamole while the chicken nuggets were baking.
It had: red and green bell pepper, red onion, garlic powder, sea salt, back pepper, onion powder, minted onion, 1 tsp honey. *I usually add a little lime but forgot one at the store!
Chop up all the veggies and stir them into the mashed avocados.
Keep giving the guacamole taste tests and add any additional seasonings.
We served the guacamole with hummus, bell pepper strips, cucumbers, tomato basil Wheat Thins and Stacy’s Pita Chips.
The best part about making the guacamole at home? It ain’t extra. (I still love you, Chipotle)
These chicken nuggets are so easy to make and one of the best chicken nuggets you’ll eat. You can make a ton of them and freeze for later! So much healthier/cheaper than the store-bought. You’ll never want to eat store bought chicken nuggets after making these.
I love cooking Sunday dinners. I’ve cut back on dining out in the past four months. I used to eat out at least five times a week or more! So crazy.
He’s always watching…
The Halo Top dessert smorgasbord.
My dessert mug had lemon cake Halo, strawberry Halo, Chocolate Halo, Peanut butter and a couple pieces of dark chocolate chips. SO MUCH BETTER THAN FROYO! We spent the night watching the Survivalist. It was pretty interesting. I recommend it if you’re in a movie mood. Don’t watch this if you’re going to be on your phone or computer while casually watching (I do that a lot.) It portrays the realistic human behavior in survival mode. If we were all trying to survive, I’m sure all of our natural survival instincts would kick in and we’d act like different people.
Is it horrible that the only thing I could think of during the last two movies was how they were getting their coffee?
This was such a relaxing weekend and everything I needed!
Grumples and I hit the walking trail early Monday morning! We only did two miles before he said “no thanks.”
I stopped at the Spring Farm Farmers Market for some fresh produce on the way back!
How fun is this pool float!? Thank you Ankit for thinking of me:)
I did my mini food prepping on Monday night before the Bachelorette finale!
I make big containers of white rice and ground turkey!
I’ve been on this salad combo kick for weeks! Romaine, eggs, croutons, asiago cheese, ground turkey, avocado, rice and some random chunk of a pita!
I watched the finale of the Bachelorette with this delicious treat! I made a DECAF espresso with my Nespresso machine, added a chai tea bag, sprinkle of ground cinnamon, a splash of light cream, and mini marshmallows. It tasted like a chai tea latte!
I was all wrong about the Bachelorette finale. I thought they put Jordan on there so he could get denied at the end, be the next bachelor, and bring in more ratings & drama for the next show! Maybe that’s what they were secretly hoping? Or maybe only I was hoping that…
Now…do I watch Bachelor in Paradise? YES!
& I suppose I’ll end this recap (at 4:45 am) with yesterday’s breakfast & lunch.
Strawberry & Cream Oatmeal with Lemon Ginger Tea 
Protein shake: 1/2 Scoop Vanilla Protein Powder
QUESTIONS FOR YOU
- What is the last thing you created? (it can be anything)
- Do you have a favorite recipe that contains five ingredients or less? (please share)
- Do you have anything active planned for the weekend?
I have a feeling I’m going to wake up in the morning and laugh at how bad this post was written…gotta love a 5am post.
I never had Taylor ham before I met my husband, It’s very popular in the North where he’s from (New Jersey, I’m Texan) and I honestly think its better than bacon. We like to put them on bagels with eggs n cheese!
I bet it’s so good on a bagel!:) Love that idea.
1. Hmm..good question 🙂 Well I designed my own 4 round circuit workout on Monday and it was so much fun! Each round had six different moves that I did for one minute each at high intensity. The moves were a mix of strength and cardio, hitting all of the major muscle groups. I was pretty proud of myself and felt sore the next day! Another thing…I made a pina colada-like smoothie this morning 🙂 Mango, banana, pineapple, vanilla unsweetened almond milk and vanilla protein powder 🙂 I should’ve added chia but it was so good!
2. I LOVE pulled pork in the crock pot. Just a boneless pork shoulder on low for 8 hours or so with some onion chopped up and a little bit of bbq sauce. Then you shred it and add more bbq sauce..I use it for quesadillas, sandwiches, salads, etc. So good!
3. I’m hoping to go for a hike where there’s also a fun swimming hole called Devil’s Pool! Also hoping to make it to the beach- not a super active thing but I always swim a lot and like walking up and down the boardwalk. And it’s my birthday today and I have to work, so I figure I deserve a weekend beach trip 🙂
Pretty great post for that late at night 😀
HAPPY BIRTHDAY JAIME!
Nice job!!! I love creating circuits 🙂 Funny we made almost the exact same smoothie! It’s definitely mango season.
YUM! I also love pulled pork in the crock pot, especially on top of salads (cold)
Wow sounds gorgeous where you live.
I hope you have the best birthday!!! & you do deserve a fun weekend! xo xo
xo- Taralynn
I love how much you love coffee!
MMMM yummy- I love quest bars (which I first got addicted to after your suggestion!). I can’t wait to try the oatmeal one, it looks delish. I also LOVE the flatout pizzas. Whenever my husband and I go on vacation we crank out pineapple and daiya cheese flatbread pizzas all week (it’s cheap, and perfect for vacay!).
1. Last thing I created was a jewelry holder out of an old cooking pan (the slotted ones). I bought some hooks and spraypainted the pan to a deep teal. Works great so far!
2. I’m hooked lately on an indulgent mexican dip: 1/2 cup refried beans, 2 tbsp cheddar daiya, 2 tbsp of plain greek yogurt and use veggies to do the dippin’. It makes quite a bit and it tastes a lot less healthy than it is!
3. We are celebrating our anniversary weekend at Half Moon Bay. Priorities include eating the best seafood of our lives and finding some amazing cheesecake.
Love your posts as always. xx
Hi Mackenzie,
I had to back off because I was so addicted! Now, I don’t keep them in the house and only buy them on the go! I think you’ll LOVE the oatmeal if you like all the other flavors. Pineapple and daiya cheese sounds like a great flatbread combo! I agree on the cheap part. When I buy all the ingredients for my flat-out pizza’s, I eat them all week long for dinner!
That sound so cute and very creative!
YUM! I must try that. I love dips 🙂
Happy anniversary!!!! I love seafood. I hope you have a blast and come back to tell me all about it!!
xo – Taralynn
Your chicken nugget recipe has been my favorite for the past four years. I am always telling my mom friends about them!
Thank you Leslie & thank you for passing along my recipe! They are one of my favorites as well and super easy to make!
Yeah, I’ve been looking forward to the next recap post already 🙂
What is the last thing you created? (it can be anything)
I just built a huge tic tac toe game for summer camp, can’t wait to test it with my scouting kids.
Do you have a favorite recipe that contains five ingredients or less? (please share)
Usually I don’t use recipes but just mix together whatever comes my way 😀
Do you have anything active planned for the weekend?
On Saturday one of my friends from Uni will visit me in my hometown. I haven’t seen her for over a month and miss her loads. Sunday will be all about packing up my stuff and doing last minute organisation stuff, because Monday I’ll leave for two weeks of summer camp madness 🙂
Hey Vanessa!
Sorry for taking so long. I knew that if I stayed up all night writing, I’d be less distracted by the outdoors! It was kind of a self-test of mind power. I am usually in bed by ten or eleven at the latest!
That is such a cute project and was one of my favorite games growing up. I HATED playing with my brother because he always beat me. 🙁
Sounds like someone else I know (ME)
Sounds like you’re going to have a great weekend and much needed girl time before camp starts!
I hope you have a blast:)
xo-Taralynn
1. Created. Hmm. Mostly my creativeness goes towards blogging, or meal planning. I created a masterpiece lunch for this week though. I’m calling it “Caprese Pasta” – whole grain noodles, chicken, tomato, zucchini, mushroom, fresh basil & fresh mozzarella. SO GOOD.
2. I have a white chicken chili recipe that I LOVE, in fact, I thought for a split second that some cold weather might be nice so I could make it.
Chicken breast (2-3 big ones) + jar of salsa verde (16oz or more) + 1-2 diced jalapeno + 1 diced onion + 28oz pinto beans + chicken broth (3-5 cups)
3. I’ll be sure to fit in a run or two, I always do. But it’s my friends Bachelorette Party. Nothing crazy, but apps & snacks at a nearby winery before we head out for dinner & dancing.
So excited to see your office collage once it’s all up, I love that you’re going to decorate with things you’ve made! + that chai tea latte sounds delicious!
Hi Jessie.
Before even reading your comment, I know you’re going to say something so cool that you created. AND I WAS RIGHT. YUM!! I’m going to try that without the mushrooms. I will be bookmarking your blogpost.
Sounds like the perfect soup recipe! Thanks again for another crockpot idea!
Your weekend is going to be a blast (per usual) and I can’t wait to hear all about it.
I’m excited to share the photos once it’s up!
xo Have a great weekend!!
I hope you got to sleep in!
1. What is the last thing you created? (it can be anything)
I’ve been pretty creative with my bullet journal, which also helps me stay organized!
2. Do you have a favorite recipe that contains five ingredients or less? (please share)
I think probably protein pancakes! One banana, two eggs, chia seeds and blueberries.
3. Do you have anything active planned for the weekend?
Going sailing with some friends and a run! The olympics also start on Friday so I’ll be watching events for sure, these athletes inspire me to push myself!
Hi Jenny!
I didn’t, but I do know that I’ll be napping after my workout later and I might have the best sleep of my life tonight!
I wish I could consistently stay organized with my journals. Props to you!
I make those all the time 🙂 Definitely a go-to! I was close to doing it today, but for some reason went in a completely different direction and cooked up rice and turkey. (laziness probably)
Sailing sounds like a blast!:) I wanted to go in Maine, but never got around to doing it. I love the stories of these Athletes as well!
Thanks for stopping by again:)
XO – TARALYNN
Taralynn, I found your blog during a Pinterest-binge session (that’s a thing, right?) and I love your weekly updates! Your posts are motivational, helpful, AND inspirational…also, your sense of humor is right up my alley.
The last thing I created was an old-fashioned custard pie for a friend’s birthday…I followed the recipe to a T, but it still just tasted like sweetened eggs…sad day.
I’m a fan of the Monster Cookie energy bites using PB Fit powder:
1c Oats
3tbsp semi-sweet chocolate chips
2tbsp dried cranberries
1tbsp chia seeds
8-10tbsp PB Fit powder (mix with ~4tbsp water before combining with other ingredients)
Mix all ingredients, shape into 1″ balls, chill for 30minutes…tasty and easy!
I will be in my dirndl this weekend (German-style dress) that some friends made for me. They always host an Augustober festival and a Christmas dessert party, both of which are always cute and amazing!
Hope you have a great weekend – cheers!
Hey Ariel!
That is definitely a thing. I love to binge on Pinterest & Netflix all at once (USUALLY WITH COFFEE AND POPCORN) <--I don't know why that was all capitalized, but I'm too lazy to backspace, and writing about my laziness makes up for my laziness, right? I'm so glad you found my blog during your binge and thank you for stopping by to comment and share all the kind words! Makes me day 😀 Have you ever seen the Pinterest fail blog? haha That one could be added to it! OMG. THOSE. SOUND. INCREDIBLE. & super easy to do. I'm not sure I can trust myself with those in my house. Sounds like you're going to have a blast this weekend! Can't wait to hear about it! BTW, your last name is one of the coolest I've seen. xo xo - Taralynn
1) & 2) Eh the last thing I created was dinner. Which also answers your second question. It was zucchini boats. So just zucchini, mozzarella cheese and tomato sauce. I also added some quinoa on the side.
3) I started taking spin classes with my boyfriend and we are loving it so far. We’ll definetely go to a class this weekend.
That’s awesome that you can work so late at night. My eye sight goes blurry when I’m tired or on the computer for too long. The downfall is my internal alarm clock not letting me sleep in.
LOVE Zucchini pizza! I am going to have Kyle try that one next. Quinoa on the side is always good!
I LOVE SPIN! I’m ALSO going to have Kyle try that with me!
Believe me, I NEVER work late at night. I’m not sure what got into me, but I did it. I was shocked lol
Uffdah, girlfriend. 4:35 AM? I hope you’re surviving today. Also…I just went all North Dakotan on you with that uffdah 🙂
Those chicken nuggets look AWESOME. Totally going to make those next week!
1. Food-wise I created quite a spread on Monday for my husband and I: steak on the grill, I made your potato fritte things using red & sweet potato and using my spiralizer, caesar pasta salad and corn on the cob. It was delicious! I also made a totally from-scratch peach pie on Monday because summer is just NOT summer without at least one peach pie. It was perfection.
I am really itching to start getting creative again and start doing some stuff in my house…I’ve been too busy to even think about anything crafty but now I am chomping at the bit!
2. I suppose I have a lot of recipes that are less than 5 ingredients…but can I think of them right now? Of course not! Lol!
3. My husband and I are having an “us” day and we are going to go up to Winnipeg, Canada and go to the zoo and get some poutine at this really awesome restaurant and go to Bridge’s Drive Inn, which has like…the BEST ice cream ever. We are so excited!
LOVE that you just North Dakota’d me!
Let me know what you think of the nuggets!!
YUM! You can invite me over next time you make a spread like that. & peach pie…yum!
You just let me know when one comes to mine!! 😀
I’m going to be in Winnipeg next week! 🙂 so cool. I LOVE POUTINE! My Canadian friends from NY made it for me when I worked there in the summers. I need to make it during football season! They do a southern style poutine down here and it’s pretty good!
For real?! What are you doing in Winnipeg??? How fun! If you have time I would definitely recommend Smoke’s Poutinerrie for some killer awesome poutine. And Bridge’s Drive Inn has the BEST ice cream if you want a little treat 🙂 Heck…you’re so close to North Dakota you should just jump the border 🙂 Haha!
Also – I made a killer Caesar salad “on steroids” today that made me think of you and your love for salads — romaine, spinach, leftover steak, multi-colored/shaped pasta, red onion, grape tomatoes, avocado, feta cheese & broccoli slaw topped with the Simply Made Caesar dressing by Marzetti (totally butchered the brand name but oh well!)
Your updates always make me so hungry. I’m gonna have to try the Chai/Espresso combo. It sounds delicious.
I’ve been following your blog since the tumblr days (probably 5-6 years ago,) and I just wanted to say I’m so happy to see that you seem to be in such a good place. My best friend and I used to OBSESS over your posts and send them back and forth to each other constantly because we really could relate to you. I’m just really happy to see how far you’ve come. Keep it up 🙂
My dad said the same thing this morning! (about being hungry after that post)
It’s a great combo and if you like chai, you’ll love it!
Thank you very much for the kind words and for following me for so long! I just looked over your blog and love it! I’ll bookmark it for a later read:) Love the cute name.
xo xo
I need to catch up on The Night of. I only watched the first episode. But it’s very reminiscent of season one of the Serial Podcast about the Adnan Syed case that happened during the 90s. If you like The Night Of, and you haven’t listened to season one of Serial, I’d DEFINITELY recommend it!
Also love the Georgetown Dean & Deluca location! Love grabbing a bite and sitting outside and listening to the street performers! I wish they would bring a location to Old Town Alexandria
It’s so good and Im looking forward to watching the episode tonight. We record it and watch it on wednesdays! I am going to look into the Serial! I love that stuff playing while I work at home.
You’re making me want to go to Georgetown right now!! They should totally bring one to Old Town!
That sounds like a fun couple of days! The last thing I made was raspberry chocolate chip banana bread, which was delicious! I love how versatile banana bread is!
Definitely was & that bread sounds super delicious! I totally agree about banana bread being so versatile!
Great recap! In the Starbucks photo, where are your sneakers from? They’re so cute!
Thanks Jenny! They’re the new NEW BALANCE TRAINING shoes! http://www.newbalance.com/pd/vazee-transform-graphic-trainer/WX77-G.html?ICID=TRANSFORM_PGP_WF_5164#color=Blossom I’ll be doing a post on them soon!
I so enjoy your recap posts, Taralynn! And kudos to you for working on it through the night — I desperately need to write another post but haven’t pulled an all-nighter for it! Your chicken nuggets and guacamole dinner looked scrumptious!!! What a fun idea for an appetizer night!
1. Hmm, my last creation was probably a recipe adaptation of some sort — pancakes or vegan snickerdoodles maybe.
2. Yes!!! 🙂 My hubby and I have been loving garlic noodles every week and they are so simple. Boil rotini noodles (we use whole ones) until soft, then season with garlic salt to taste (it’s usually a fair bit to get a good garlicky, salty flavor). I add a little butter, too, to enrich the flavor and keep the noodles from sticking together. It’s literally one of the easiest recipes ever, but everybody thinks it’s delicious.
3. Yes! One of Alexander’s old friends is passing through Wyoming so we’re going to meet up with him for an hour or two near the Tetons. The Tetons/Jackson area is one of our favorite places to explore so Alexander and I are planning on going hiking/biking after visiting with his friend. We’re also going to camp out one or two nights, which is always a blast. 🙂
Thanks so much Lauren!
I am still shocked I managed to do it. I literally want to make the chicken nuggets for dinner again! I love love love them! & the guac is always a winner!
Do you have a recipe for those vegan snicker doodles? know someone that would love that!
YUM!! You had me at garlic.
That sounds like so much fun! So jealous of your camping adventures!
If you have a trader joe’s by you they have vegan snicker doodles 🙂
I’ll have to check that out! Thank you 😀
What a huge batch of guacamole! Care to share? 🙂
Hahaha SADLY there is NONE left! 🙁
I was hoping to see Kyle without a shirt on. BOOO
HAHAHAHA maybe the next post 😉
The movie you were talking about is Clueless! Its one of my favorites too!
Your blog is my favorite. I wish I could into every photo! I think my hubby and I will make your chicken nuggets for dinner tonight. I have a feeling him and the kiddos will love it.
Thanks for staying up all night for my entertainment!
Happy birthday to Becca and hello to Kyle and Grumples!
Yes ma’am it was!
& thank you so much for the kind words about my blog! Make sure you make EXTRA NUGGETS!!! they’ll love them.
xo xo & i’ll tell them all hello & happy b to B!
My boyfriend is from New Jersey and LOVES taylor ham! Any deli we go to he searches for it on the menu. He says you have to add “salt, pepper, ketchup”!
Besides the gym and normal workouts..Does outlet shopping count as active?!
Recipe: baked apple. Slice Apple and sprinkle with cinnamon and honey. Bake at 400 for 15ish minutes. Serve with vanilla Halo Top!
That is so funny. Ketchup for sure! Well…ketchup on everything!
YES 🙂 Power shopping is a real thing.
yumm!!!!! & with HALO? IM IN!
I’m visiting family in New Brunswick for my birthday (today, yay!) and we went whale watching. On Friday we’re heading to PEI for two days, so I’m sure we will be doing PLENTY of walking around!
Happy birthday to Becca!
I have snapchat but always forget about it. I need to work harder on going on it!
Have a great week 🙂
http://www.justbeingbrooklyn.com
Hey Birthday Girl!!
That’ll be so much fun! I love walking on trips:) Exercising without knowing it.
I am kind of like that. I go in and out of snapchat phases.
I hope you have fun visiting your family!
AND HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Sounds like a fun few days! I love adding peas, corn, carrots, black beans, and rice noodles to a pan and stir frying everything in garlic, lime juice, soy sauce, and a small dollop of peanut butter. It makes a delicious creamy sauce and its so cheap and easy!
Hi Heather!
Very fun 🙂 Peanut butter to a stir fry? Why haven’t I ever though of that? YUM!
Thanks for passing that along.
I hope you have a great weekend:)
xo
I’ve been getting into making jewelry; every few years I get into doing it, then put away my wire clippers.
Current favorite 5 ingredient recipe: cilantro pesto. I put a bunch of cilantro leaves, a garlic clove, minced jalapeño pepper, alomonds or sunflower seeds, and olive oil in the food processor, chop to taste (sometimes I like the leaves a little more coarse). It can go for Asian dishes or Mexican, good on salmon or chicken as a rub or in omlettes.
My schedule will allow for some nice long workouts, so I will be doing some serious weights!
Jewelry making gets addictive. I remember watching my friend start form a trial bracelet (her first attempt) to turning the whole thing into a business!
Your recipe sounds great (of course I’d have to leave out the cilantro because I think it tastes like soup) but I’d like to try that on salmon or chicken!
Have a good weekend!
My omelet that I had for supper? Haha I guess that answers both questions! It had spinach, red onion, garlic powder, salt and pepper!
My family and I actually have our “annual” party with my dad’s friend from high school at his cabin up in the Brainerd Lakes area! It’s so beautiful up there and is definitely one of my favorite places. Swimming, shopping, and more! I plan on trying to get in at least one run up in the beautiful “north country”!
Hi Jennifer!
Sounds like my type of omelet!
You’re going to have such a fun weekend. I wish I could tag along! I love the northern part of the states, especially at this time of year.
xo xo
All this food looks so good!
1. The last thing I created would have to be blackberry crumble bars from the Chocolate covered Katie cookbook! We picked the blackberries from down the road and they are so tasty.
2. My favorite simple recipe is cooking couscous then steaming veggies with coconut Aminos. Sometimes I will add peanut sauce on top and it is so good! Chicken could also be added.
3. This Saturday we are heading down to Sunriver Oregon for a family vacation! I think you would LOVE Sunriver! There are biking trails all over (also for running) and tons of places to swim and golf. It is an outdoorsy girls dream.
Thanks so much Hannah!
1. Sounds so delicious! Blackberries are so good this time of year 🙂 They’re huge at the farmers market here.
2. So nice they named it twice 😉 But seriously that sounds so good. I did a pizza flavored couscous before .
3. I bet I would! 🙂 That is going to be so much fun!!! I hope you come back and tell me all about it so I can live through you.
xo xo
1. I recently created a recipe that I found online, does that count? I hope so, because it was INCREDIBLE. It had diced avocado, thin stripes of purple onion, diced tomato and chopped cucumber. With lemon and olive oil drizzled over it. Sprinkled with a tad pepper and salt. Seriously worth making!
2. A simple under 5 ingredient dish that’s been on my mind to make again is baked chicken seasoned with lemon-pepper and honey. Great staple food! I bet it’d be great for your meal-prepping.
3. This weekend there’s a big breastfeeding event going on, it’s happening all across the globe. It’s purpose is to normalize it and to break a record of people breastfeeding at the same time! So definitely attending that! & Of course looking forward to starting the August Fit Challenge and going to definitely squeeze in some runs and weights.
Hi Crystal!
It does count and I’m so glad you shared it with me! Sounds great!!
That does sound like a great chicken recipe! I might have to try that instead of my ground turkey next week!
That’ll be a cool event. There is always something interesting going on! i love hearing from all of you guys and I learn so much. I feel like i’m taking a tour around the world when you guys share what’s happening in your parts of the world/states!
The challenge will be posted tomorrow! YAY!
XO
Taralynn
I love this post (even if it was written so late!), you seem a little more real in your writing. That’s always more fun to read in my opinion(:
1. I don’t remember what the last thing I made was.. That’s sad. I guess it’s time to get creative!
2. I have no idea.. I just Pinterest a recipe and go with it. Sometimes altering if I don’t like certain ingredients. Not always the best thing to do..
3. Last week I was in the Adirondack mountains and did a lot of hiking. Towards the end of the week I broke out in shingles (worst experience ever) so this week and weekend is just relaxing at home and recovering. But I am really looking forward to it after a busy summer. And I am loving all of the movie suggestions, is giving me ideas for the week.
Did you ever post that running post you mentioned? I was just wondering how you get the motivation to run in 90°+ because I struggle if it’s not 75° at least.
Ps. Happy belated birthday, Becca!
Hi Shannon!
Thanks so much 🙂 I try to make all my writing real and totally me, even if I’m doing something boring!
You better go get creative 🙂 You’ve probably done something, but can’t think of it! We are always creating! You created this comment, didn’t you? 😉
I love doing that too…but Pinterest fails are totally real.
Wow that sounds like a blast. Everyone is in hiking mode and inspiring me to get out! You definitely deserve a relaxing weekend. I love to spend relaxing weekends walking instead of anything too hardcore. Kyle and I are movie/show connoisseurs so if you need any suggestions..I’m your chick!
I have a post written up, but it’s not 100% done yet. I’m still adding to it and working on putting a giveaway with it. It’s been kind of a long time coming. I need to stop putting projects ahead of it! 🙂
I’ll tell B you said happy birthday!
xo xo xo & I hope you have a fun and relaxing weekend!
Taralynn
1. Last thing I created was probably the stir fry my husband and I made last night. We mixed a lot of vegetables, some steak, and a few different sauces and it came out really good.
2. I have a three ingredient recipe. Green beans, bacon (or turkey bacon), and brown sugar. Slice a few pieces of bacon up into one inch strips and fry them up, once they’re getting a little bit cooked then add the green beans and keep cooking until the bacon is completely cooked and the green beans are to your liking. While cooking sprinkle a little bit of brown sugar over everything and toss around until mixed in. It’s so good and we always get asked to make this as a side.
3. Hmm my husband and I try to go to the gym at least one day during the weekend. We also might visit his dad a couple of hours away and go bike riding, they have the most beautiful trails through the woods where he lives.
Hope you have a great weekend!
Yum! I love stir fry. It’s so versatile and you can do so much with it. It’s great for leftovers throughout the week.
OH YUM! Love sweet green beans. Thanks for sharing that!
Sounds like you’re going to have fun weekend and I hope to fit in a bike ride as well.
XO XO XO
No cilantro in your guac? Blasphemy!! Haha 😛 – Taylor ham is thee best! Super popular in New Jersey, where my dad is from. Reminds my of spending time in Long Beach Island on the shore growing up. Always had a plate of taylor ham at breakfast. And making a breakfast sandwich out of it with a Jersey bagel? Omg, biggest guilty pleasure
What is the last thing you created? (it can be anything) – The last thing I created was a body oil and face spray! I love playing around with different oils at home and making different beauty products.
Do you have a favorite recipe that contains five ingredients or less? (please share) – I’ll share my face spray recipe since a lot of my friends and family love it. Green tea, witch hazel, rose water, essential oils of choice (I like to do tea tree and lavender)
Do you have anything active planned for the weekend? I am going up to Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire with a group of friends to camp and see two nights of Pretty Lights!! I’m so stoked. It’s going to be like a mini Pretty Lights festival and we plan on renting a boat one day. Wooo! I made your peanut butter protein cookies last night for the weekend and post-barre class tonight and they are delish! Thanks for recipe & enjoy your weekend 🙂
Hi Annie!
Cilantro is a NO NO (for me) it just tastes like soap…yuck! I don’t know how I’ve never heard of Taylor ham until now. I love how something so familiar to someone can be so unknown to the next person. I’m sure I have tons of things I grew up with that Kyle has no idea about. Love that we can all learn from one another. I will have to try it on a bagel!
That sounds so cool! I need to try that. The lady who does my eyebrows always uses witch hazel and I love it.
Oh my goodness. Your weekend is going to be a blast!!!!! Take me with you? If you have instagram or want to email me photos, I’d love to see them. Th pretty lights festival sounds like a fairytale!
Glad you loved my recipe!!! 😀
Enjoy your weekend!!
xo xo
Taralynn
Just noticed the last question had ACTIVE in it, not just plans haha. Well we’ll certainly be dancing our hearts out all weekend and doing water activities and maybe a little hike if we have the energy :))
Ha thats ok 🙂 Dancing and hiking sounds like a BLAST! make sure you stay hydrated! xo xo xo Have fun!
YUM those homemade chicken nuggets look delicious- will have to make them. Maybe tonight!
This is sort of random- but do you have any advice about meeting people after moving to a city where you don’t know anyone?! You seemed to have done such a great job with that after moving to Charlotte. I’m thinking about moving somewhere new- but scared not to know anyone!
Also- never heard of Taylor ham either?! hahah I’ll have to try!
xx
Thanks Savannah!
You just have to go out of your way to chat with people, be outgoing, join clubs for things you’re interested in. Once you meet one person, you’ll meet another and another and all through the same people. I was lucky enough to live in a friendly apartment complex where I met friends right away, who led me to the people I hang out with now! 🙂 Don’t be scared!
Yes, try it!!!
xo
I’m guessing one of your favorite movies is Clueless? Also one of my favorites, even if it did come out the year I was born haha.
1. I made some awesome chocolate Nice-cream yesterday. Pretty proud since I suck at making smoothies and such.
2. Sadly I don’t. I can never keep track of all the recipes I’ve tried .
3. This weekend I’ll just be working/ working out. So boring haha.
ps SO excited for the august challenge ! 😀
lol YES! I love that movie so much. I was 4 when it came out!
Sounds really good!!
Working out is never boring 🙂 Sounds like you have an active and relaxing weekend ahead!
xo
Love all of your posts Tara!
Thanks so much for reading !:) xo
1. The last thing I created was probably my gallery wall in my living room. I’ve been collecting rustic pieces to hang at different levels, and my sister even created some wooden arrows and a beautiful own made of driftwood to hang up 🙂 It’s my happy space.
2. My favorite easy recipe is buffalo chicken pinwheels. There are a bajillion recipes out there for it, but mine is right here http://www.activelyanna.com/?p=706 I like it because it’s sooo simple yet flies off the plate at parties!
3. I’m going home for a family reunion in the park, so I’m hoping to do a lot of running around and get a little exercise in (after eating all the pot luck food 😉 )
Loved this recap post! You write really freaking well for 4 am!
Hi Anna!
I am working on a gallery for my office. They are a lot harder than they look! I bet yours looks great.
Thanks for the recipe! Kyle loves buffalo!
That’ll be fun 🙂 I haven’t been to a family reunion in almost 10 years! I don’t even know if we have them lol
& thank you!!! xo xo
Brand new to reading! Great blog, definitely a motivator to get healthier
Welcome and thank you so much Kristen!!
HI Taralynn!!! I’ve been reading your blog for several years and love reading about all of your adventures and seeing the tons of pretty photos. You defs inspire me to live an active life, so thank youuuu!!!!
1) I created my own blog which I’m super excited about as it has been something I have wanted to do for quite some time! http://hellokenzie.com
2) these blueberry muffin energy balls are bomb! I think they technically have six ingredients but they are my go to energy ball: http://www.thehealthymaven.com/2013/05/blueberry-muffin-energy-bites.html
3) I’m hoping that the weather will be nice so i can take advantage of our pool. Also back to school shopping…that counts as being active…right?? ha
Have a good weekend!
Hi Mackenzie!
Thank you for the kind words and following me throughout the years! 🙂 Means a lot!
1. I can’t wait to check out your blog:) & welcome to the blogging world!
2. yum. I love anything with blueberries!
3. Shopping is always an active activity 😉
I hope you have a great weekend as well & happy friday!!
Taralynn
Where exactly is Kyle from up North? I had to laugh about your pork roll (taylor ham) story. Here in jersey that is a big breakfast item. I couldn’t believe with all your travels around this country you had never had pork roll, egg & cheese. Kyle looks like he makes a good one too.
Isn’t “The night of” the best show? I can’t wait for it to come on on Sunday nights and literally turn off my phone so I can watch without distractions. You definitely can’t afford to miss anything during that show. So… do you think Nas is innocent? I can’t really see him being the killer.
Have you ever thought about selling your prints/paintings in your online store? I know they probably take a lot of time to paint but all your paintings that you have shown with us on your site over the years are awesome. I’m so glad to hear that you were able to sell some. Good for you.
He definitely makes a good one! 🙂 I don’t know how I’ve never heard of one either! He’s from Jersey.
ITS SUCH A GOOD SHOW! HOLY COW! Remember when Nas and that girl were walking into her place? Those two guys were giving them trouble? WELL, do you remember that ONE guy lied and said he was the only one there? I think they have something to do with it! Plus that guy’s niece from jail looked like she was murdered the same way and I think he’s connected with one of those guys. But, it could be a total twist and Nas may have done it! GASH IDK! so good.
Thanks so much & yes I have thought about it!!! xo xo xo
I love your cutting board!!! Is that stone? Where is it from?
It’s the cutting board at Kyles! I was obsessed with it too and I looked it up on Etsy (only place I could find one) and looks like these right here! https://www.etsy.com/shop/Inlaidwoods?ref=l2-shopheader-name
Thanks!
1. I created a company newsletter for my new job and sent to all of our clients. Did it all by myself and was pretty happy with the results. Creating a newsletter is harder than it seems.
2. My favorite recipe is Smothered Burritos. Only has 5 main ingredients, aside from what else you choose to customize it to your taste. Just take 1 pound of stew beef, 2 cans of enchilada sauce (15 oz each), and 2 cubes of beef bouillon, mix all together in a slow cooker, and cook on low for 8 hours. Once it’s done take a burrito tortilla, fill with the meat (make sure to use a slotted spoon or drain any excess sauce) and anything else you like in your burritos (My husband and I add rice, refried beans, and a little cheese). Roll them up and cover with the sauce from the slow cooker and top with cheese. Microwave for 30 seconds and you’re done! Super easy and extremely filling. Sent my whole family in to a food coma once, oops!
3. Planning on going to a birthday party for a friend, and as always, walking my dog Max!
1. Nice job! Now it’ll be a breeze the next time.
2. HOLY YUM! THAT SOUNDS AWESOME.
3. Cant neglect the pups!:) I hope you have a great weekend!
Hi! love the blog! When I am feeling blah I get on here and check it out and motivates me! I go to Starbucks often. What iced coffee do you get!? I am trying to cut back on the dairy.
Thanks!
Hi! Thanks so much:)
I just ordered a regular iced coffee! & it’s really good with almond milk!
xo
Can you make your blog opening shorter or faster? I’m impatient and just want to read your blog and it takes too long to open now :-). Love the new layout though!
The only thing I have planned this weekend is watching the Olympics. I love the summer games, especially swimming and gymnastics.
Yes ma’am!
😉 i just took it down for now!
I love them too! SO INSPIRING.
Hi Taralynn! Congrats on making the Charlotte Agenda!
You are too cute!
:):) thank you xo
How old is you?
25:)
I came here from the Charlotte Agenda. Congrats on the feature!
Thank you Lindsey!! & Welcome!
I’m so behind on your blogs! I’m totally making those nuggets! and pizza!
I was reading along and then suddenly I saw the bsb poster and had to scroll back up. I was like, when did she get to dc?! that rfk stadium thing really confused me.
off to catch up!
YOU’LL LOVE THEM!!:)
hahahaha Not going to D.C. until labor day!:)
I’m obsessed with your blog!
xo from Mexico!
xoxoxo!
Your catch-up posts are my favorite! I love seeing how happy you are! You deserve it, Taralynn!
Thank you so much Danielle!!
what Halo Top ice cream do you like the best?! I’ve tried the Vanilla Bean and its so much better than I was expecting! 🙂
VANILLA BEAN 🙂 & all the other flavors are just as good. I can’t wait to try the mint and the mocha!
Your photos are great. Never stop blogging!
Thank you Zara!
LOVE YOUR BLOG!
Thank you 😉 xo
I love that you’re a charlotte gal
Love your blog!
Hi!
I love your blog! and I love the nugget recipe, how do you freeze them?? just the chicken or the chicken with the egg and bread?? how long does it last?
Found you from charlotte agenda!
Cool! Such a great account 🙂
Awww thank you Maki!!