Hey Hey Hey!
I’m so excited for the weekend to get here. Becca and I are heading to Charleston for our friend’s bachelorette weekend. We decided to head down early on Thursday morning to have a beach day before the crazy weekend begins, assuming the weather works with us. All of us girls are staying in a beach house and it’s going to get pretty wild (according to the group chats.) If you see me acting a fool in Charleston, my apologies in advance. I’m just kidding, I’m going to try to keep up with my workouts and healthy eats while I’m on this fun getaway.
I want to get caught up on my recap before I head out for the fun weekend. You can keep up with me on Instagram, Snapchat (@taralynnmcnitt) , Facebook or Twitter while I’m gone! 😉
I’m having the same thing as usual. I meal prepped a week ago, but froze some meals because I knew I wouldn’t be able to eat them during the weekend. I defrosted them, heated them up and they turned out great.
I’m waiting for the weather to cool down so I can walk Grumples tonight. We have been going on two long walks every day to keep his weight down. He’s doing so well.
Our first walk was at 6:30 this morning. I grabbed some coffee and we headed out on our stroll. I stayed out at my parent’s house last night, so the morning country views were a treat.
The sky was on fire and it’s worth every second of waking up early.
I made more coffee and sat outside with Grumples to watch the sun come up while working on emails. I know I say this a lot, but I live for my mornings. I get kind of sad when they’re gone. I love the peacefulness, the quiet time and that moment to myself. The coffee has a lot to do with it as well;) My day is completely off if I get robbed of my mornings. If I have to be somewhere early, I make sure to wake up two hours in advance. I usually wake up at 4 am before 8 am flights. I was like that in high school as well. I’d wake up at 5am with my parents on school days to have coffee and watch the news.
I made a banana blueberry protein shake for breakfast. It had a cup of blueberries, a small banana, almond milk, Vanilla Protein Powder and ice. So simple and so delicious.
I took my computer outside and worked from the back patio all afternoon. It was beautiful.
I went on a light run today since yesterday’s was pretty long. After my run, I had peaches, hard-boiled eggs, and some leftover sweet potatoes. I ate most of them before they were on the plate (oops.)
I took Grumples to the trails today for a mile and it was so hot! We were so zonked and just sat in the car in the air conditioner on blast for ten minutes before taking off.
I made some coffee and got back to work in the afternoon. I heard some of you had 50 degree weather today! That is unbelievable.
(And I’m back…took a break to go fit in my workout with Becca)
Tonight we did a total of 500 sit-ups alternating them with floor leg workouts. We also did some other random workouts and goofed around per usual. There is no one in my gym after 8 pm. My stomach is on fire right now from all those sit-ups.
**Another cool workout is running one minute with a 10-15 pound medicine ball, walking one minute, running one minute, and doing this for one mile. The medicine ball makes the run so tough!
I just had a bowl of plain Greek yogurt and half of a No Cow Bar for a post-workout snack. We are packing the yoga mats to the beach this weekend so we can do some strength training!
Time to take this recap all the way back to Thursday! Of course it’s going to start with a morning dog walk. I’m so serious about getting Grumples back into shape and healthy. He is healthy, just a little fluffier than I’d like him to be. Waking up super early in the morning is tough, but worth every second.
I made a cashew latte with my Nespresso Machine after my walk with Grumples and he made himself comfortable next to me. I think he loves all the walking and it’s great for training.
I met up with Becca at the gym on Thursday night. We both ran three miles and then did the usual hour of strength training exercises.
It was beautiful on Friday morning. After Grumples and I took a three-mile walk, I headed out to run six miles, do some stretching and strength training before it got too hot out.
I found an abandoned golf course with trails to run. It was breathtaking and looked like it was right out of a fairytale book. Don’t worry ladies, I run with pepper spray!
POST RUN STRENGTH WORKOUT
50 Mountain Climbers
30 Crunches
15 Push Ups
30 sit-ups
1 Minute Plank
1 Minute Side Planks
30 left side crunches
15 Burpees, 30 sit-ups
50 Jumping Jacks
30 crunches
STRETCH
Working out outdoors makes me so happy. I get sad without my daily dose of nature. I’m excited for the cooler months and I’m not going to chicken out and quit running this winter. I’m going to have to get all the good running gear for the cold weather. If you have any suggestions, feel free to leave them in the comments!
I had a delicious smoothie after my workouts. It had frozen raspberries, pineapple, peaches, banana, Vanilla Protein Powder, ice, and water. I also had one of my pumpkin muffins!
Fridays are my power cleaning days. I get all my laundry done and do most of the scrubbing type chores. Grumples loves to follow me into every room. His favorite thing to do is jump under the covers when I’m making the bed or hop all over my folded laundry.
Kyle and I walked to Coco & The Director on Friday night!
I had a dirty chai tea latte. Deeeeelicious.
Our Friday night was very low-key. We just walked around uptown and then watched a movie.
I woke up at 5am on Saturday morning to have coffee and Low Sugar Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal before taking Grumples to the trails.
We drove to the Four Mile Creek Greenway (Squirrel Lake Park) We wanted to change up the scenery and explore a new trail.
I loved this trail and I cannot wait to go back for a bike ride or for a run.
Grumples did VERY WELL. We are trying to introduce him to new places and new sceneries. He did have a hiccup and bark at one bike, but other than that…he did great.
We walked 3.5 miles and then headed back uptown. We drove by a farmers market on the way back and I plan on going their next weekend! Have any of you been to the farmer’s market in Matthews?
I made scrambled eggs and more coffee for breakfast. I wanted something light because I was saving room for the Greek festival food!
My eggs had 2 whole eggs, 4 egg whites, 1 tsp light cream, onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, Havarti cheese and black pepper.
Around noon, we headed to our friend’s cookout! Grumples got to go too and he was so happy:)
I met up with Becca at two for the YIASOU Greek Festival. We were so excited for this and mainly for the food.
The Yiasou Greek Festival has been happening in Charlotte for the past 39 years. It is made up of cultural exhibits, delicious and AUTHENTIC Greek food, entertainment, Greek art, and shopping booths.
The one thing I had been looking forward to the entire time…THE BAKLAVA ICE CREAM! Baklava is one of my absolute favorite desserts. I’m a phyllo dough junkie, especially when it’s coated in honey and butter. When I was in high school, I was assigned to make a Greek dessert for my report on Greece. I had to get up and talk about the country while everyone ate my Greek dish. The baklava was such a hit that the recipe ended up in my high school bulletin. All of the teachers were asking me to make them batches.
This baklava ice cream was worth the hype. It wasn’t a letdown and I could have eaten bowls on bowls of it. The calories, the fat, the carbs…none of that mattered to me. This was heaven in a bowl and I had ZERO regrets.
This baklava recipe had the perfect amount of honey, nuts, and butter. I am now inspired to make baklava again and add it to some homemade ice cream. I do have a killer baklava recipe if you’re interested! Here is the link.
I actually had the dessert first. I couldn’t wait. I’m known for sharing my desserts…not this time.
Becca and I decided to grab some food to take to the park for a late lunch.
Before I left, I made sure to buy one of everything…
& doubled up on the baklava.
The Greek festival was so much fun and great way to spend the afternoon with my best friend.
We headed to Romare Bearden Park to sit and have a late lunch.
We ordered a Greek salad and Greek Fries. Greek fries are delicious! They are super easy to make and you can cook them up at home. I am definitely inspired to make these for dinner soon. Greek fries are potatoes cut into wedges and cooked in olive oil, usually flavored with Greek seasoning, lemon zest, black pepper, sea salt, feta cheese and chopped fresh mint.
So the desserts were incredible. Every single one of them…
Baklava! Kataifi! Karidopita! Galaktobouriko! Melomakarona! Kourambiethes! Koulouria! Amygdalotas!
I sampled all the desserts and it was hard to control the urge to just eat them all! We took a long walk after our lunch and then decided to go get some green smoothies.
We went to One Life Raw Juice Bar. They have my favorite green smoothie there! I am a ginger lover and they don’t sell you short.
I ordered the Midwood Mixer (the green one.) It had cucumber, celery, kale, granny smith apple, ginger blended with banana pineapple, and mango.
I also grabbed a Kombucha for the Iowa Game! (nice job beating State!)
I had a chicken waldorf salad for dinner while watching the Iowa game. It had lettuce, grapes, walnuts, chicken, apple chips, cranberries, cucumbers, and honey mustard dressing.
I was up bright and early for a Sunday run. I went four miles uptown and it was gorgeous out!
I make sure to end about a half a mile from my starting point so I can enjoy the walk back. I hate ending a run without a walk.
I made scrambled eggs and had leftover chicken Waldorf salad for breakfast.
Kyle and I decided to go see a movie Sunday afternoon. I really wanted to see Sully, especially since it was directed by Clint Eastwood. The movie was phenomenal, an emotional roller coaster and so heartfelt. Clint Eastwood and Tom Hanks should get an award for this film. It was beautifully done and I HIGHLY recommend going to see it.
We walked to the Romare Bearden park after the movie with Grumples so we could see the flags.
Each flag represented a life that was lost on September 11th. It never gets less sad as the years go by and each life that was lost will never be forgotten. It’s hard to understand why anyone could hold so much hate, but it’s important for us to stand together. Hug the ones you love, smile at strangers, hold the door open for the person behind you, and spread positivity wherever you are. Little gestures are contagious and can contribute to spreading the peace.
I met up with Becca for dinner on Sunday night. We both wanted Tex Mex, so we decided to try out Pacos Tacos.
I ordered the small Chopped salad. The small salad was HUGE. It had romaine, chopped tomato, jicama, sweet onion, avocado, scallions, garbanzo beans, cucumbers, corn, roasted red peppers & queso fresco tossed in a chipotle ranch dressing.
I also ordered fajitas because I wanted leftovers…no shame.
Kyle and I took Grumples for a night walk around uptown to end the weekend.
I was up bright and early Monday morning and ready to walk Grumples. I’m taking the vet very seriously and we are getting this weight under control. I don’t mind the extra exercise for me either! I feel like these morning walks are making me have more productive days and I sleep better at night.
Grumples and I walked four miles together and then I headed out for my six mile run. It was so so so so gorgeous out and I hardly broke a sweat. I am so excited because I’m not even out of breath after my six mile runs anymore. IF I can hit ten miles and not be out of breath, I’ll sign up for a half.
Not pictured but pre-run food: Low Sugar Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal & 1/2 banana. (one hour before)
After my run, I had my meal prepped ground turkey, brown rice and egg whites.
I headed out to my parents house to visit them and stay the night. I also wanted to watch Dancing with The Stars with my mom. I had spaghetti squash mixed with parmesan, garlic powder, melt spread, and grilled chicken.
I ended the night the same way I’ve been ending all of my nights lately, with a dog walk while the sun goes down 🙂
Questions for you!
- Have you gone to any festivals this summer?
- What is one tip for winter workouts you can share?
- Craziest moment to ever happen at a bachelorette party?
Jennifer says
It sounds like you had such a fun week! I unfortunately haven’t been to any festivals this summer. There were a lot of adventure, but no festivals! Winter workouts… for sure for running get the tracks/spikes you can attach to your shoes. I don’t know how icy it gets in Charlotte, but they’re perfect for ice and snow once you get to that point! https://www.yaktrax.com/ Also, running gloves! I’ve only been to one bachelorette party so far in my lifetime, but it was so fun! Craziest moment… nothing really stands out, but most of the people don’t remember Perkins at 3am hahaha Have fun on your trip! 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Such a fun week:)
Adventures are just as fun! Sounds good. Luckily it doesn’t get too icy here during the day (when I run) YES I NEED THOSE RUNNING GLOVES!
lol Perkins at 3am sounds like it was a good night!!
Thanks so much!
xo
Heather @ Polyglot Jot says
Wow sounds like a lot of fun! Theres a Greek festival around where I live next month–cant wait to check it out!
Taralynn McNitt says
So much fun. You must go and get some baklava!!:)
Dana says
I’ve gone to street fairs (yummy food! live music!) but not a festival. I think I’m going to have to find a Greek one because the baklava ice cream looks like the best dessert of all-time!
Remember to drink as much water when I’m working out as I do in the summer. I start not being as thirsty so I know I don’t get enough sometimes.
My friends are pretty low key, so probably just drinking a little too much.
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Dana!
UM. That baklava was pretty much the best of all time. It should be on the food network!
Yeah, I think that is a biggie! Water is never appetizing (to me) in the winter!
I can relate to that! xo
taralynn
Kelsey says
Hi Taralynn,
First off – I’ve been following your blog for awhile and love reading your update posts.
I’ve been wondering how you like your Nespresso machine. I really like lattes and macchiatos and was wondering if it is a good model- and I know you have high standards for coffee so I’d love your opinion.
Thanks so much!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Kelsey!
Thank you so much for reading my blog and the kind words! That means so much 🙂
I LOVE my Nespresso machine. I use it about five times a week and it’s EASY MAINTENANCE, unlike all the other espresso machines I’ve had in the past. It also doesn’t take much space. I also love the look of it.
The coffee is also rich and strong. I like it better than most coffee shops!
xo
Jessie @ The Acquired Sass says
1. I headed to a Strawberry Festival in Wisconsin when I visited some friends this summer. I loved walking around, but ended up not eating any food. It was blazing hot + sunny & no breeze. And sticky heat is just about the only thing that can squash my appetite. But everything sounded so good!
2. Honestly, winter running wise, just do it. I run with friends on the weekends, our group run starts at 8AM. Having friends to chat with & who will hassle me if I don’t show gets me motivated. Plus, I love how great a shower feels afterwards + some hot coffee. If I try to wait until it gets warmer in the middle of the day I am way too good at making excuses and skipping a workout.
3. We walked back to our hotel from the bar because the Uber wait was ridiculous & there were no cabs. Along the way, my friend (the bridge) insisted on punching the bridge, which busted up her knuckles & made them bleed. & then she peed her pants – before she hopped in the shower with her pants still on, so she could clean herself AND her pants. Considering I stayed sober, this was a LOOOONG night.
I love having time to enjoy coffee now – but when I was younger I would sleep until literally the last possible second. I would usually wake up at 745 to leave the house at 8 for school. Glad I grew out of that one.
Taralynn McNitt says
Hey Jessie!!!
You are so much like me. If it’s blazing hot, food is the last thing I want. Water is the only thing I crave in situations like that. Although, I wouldn’t turn down lemonade.
I think mornings would be frigid. I don’t know how you do it girl! You’re such a badass. I’ll be thinking of you when I’m freezing or talking myself out of it. WHAT WOULD JESSIE DO?! 😉 WWJD.
OMG. That sounds like one heck of a night. (kind of funny to look back on though)
I’ve always been a coffee and morning person, but the older I get, the earlier I wake up! 🙂 Time is appreciated the older you get!
xo
Brittany M. says
Hi Taralynn! I made the muffins! They were amazing! Thanks for the recipe! It looks like you’ve had a great week so far! It’s strange to see you with blue eyes! Are you trying a new look? I’ve tried to put in contacts once and it was impossible lol. I haven’t been to any festivals this summer. Smh My winter workout tip is to always remind yourself that you are working for the upcoming season and mix it up! I love group fitness classes! I haven’t been to a bachelorette party! They’re always at a time when I can’t go! I didn’t even have my own when I got married. I hope you will post your weekend festivities! You girls have a safe trip! I went there this summer and loved it! I’m interested to hear all you squeeze in workouts and healthy eating with the party festivities. Do you have any “healthy” alcoholic drink recipes? How did you start becoming a runner?
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Brit!
So so so so glad you made the muffins and they were amazing! 🙂
The blue eyes are so much fun haha! Just playing with some contacts. Fun to change things up now and then.
Those little reminders are important. Self motivating yourself 🙂 I plan on spending a lot of time inside the gym (when IM not running) with Becca and working out. I’ll definitely post some photos from the weekend and I love Charleston so it should be fun. It’s going to be a rainy one!!
I love red wine, diet and vodka & if I throw out all “healthy rules” …I do a diet ginger ale, mint leaves, crystal light mojito mix and rum! 🙂
xo
Taralynn McNitt says
OH, DIDN’T SEE YOUR LAST QUESTION!
I started very small. I would run one mile a day for an entire month (never paying attention to speed) and then I started running 20 minutes a day (never paying attention to distance) Each week (4 times a week)I added on three minutes and still never worried about speed. I did that until I could run 60 minutes without stopping. Your body will naturally speed up. Never worry about how fast your running! 🙂
Taylor says
Hi Tara!
I’ve been to some arts festivals this summer. My sister and I make homemade jewelry with real flowers so we set up a booth and sold some jewelry there. I’ve always been too scared to work out outside in the winter so i’m reading all your comments for some advice too. I usually stick to indoor home videos. Craziest moment at a bachelorette party was probably at my own! We were at the pool swimming (and day drinking) and my friend entered into a booty shaking contest. She was in the final two and ended up slipping and falling on her butt so the other girl won! Haha goooood times. 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Hey Girl!
Wow that sounds so lovely and super special since it’s something you and your sister do together. Yes, the fear gets me too! I chicken out in the cold, but this year I’m going to stay positive and embrace it all. BOOTY SHAKING CONTEST?! OMG HAHAHAHA So funny (ouch) that she fell though! what a story! I don’t think I’ll be entering any of those down in Charleston!
xo xo
Melissa says
No I havn’t gone to any festivals. I went to our local farmers market once but that was it!
Running in the winter… Im not sure how cold it gets down there but if you find the cold air hurts your lungs after a while, get a Balaclava – seriously! It looks and feels dumb but it really helps keep your neck warm and from breathing in so much cold air.
Hahaha I havn’t really been to a crazy bachelorette…. we had a yell conversation out our car window at the guy next to us that was about it lol.
Take care!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Melissa!
They should have a farmers market festival 🙂
I’m going to look into that! My lungs literally burn the first mile and it tastes like metal! I’ve never even heard of that. At first I though you spelled Baklava wrong lol (so much Greek talk)
lol hopefully I’ll have some fun stories to share.
xo xo
Taralynn
Melissa says
To be totally fair and honest, lol after reading the blog and typing out Balaclava I had to google it because it didnt look right.
Have a great time!!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hahaha too funny!:)
Emily says
Hi there!!
1. I don’t think I’ve gone to any festivals this summer! I can’t even remember lol. There is one coming up near me though called the Italian Fest. Probably similar to your Greek festival but with Italian food!
2. Winter running tip.. Hmm.. I would say definitely having the right gear! I get most of my shirts, jackets, and leggings from jcpennies (they always have good sales!). Also signing up for a fun winter race is good motivation to run on those cold mornings. We have a hot chocolate race in St. Louis that I’m looking forward to!
3. And Ohhh man bachelorette parties! I don’t think there’s anything in particular that stands out from the ones I’ve been too. Just wildness!! Lol. It’s good you have a friend to go with who is also wanting stay healthy this weekend! I’m sure you guys will have a ton of fun!!
🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Emily!
Never turn down an italian fest. GO GO GO! My church has Italian festivals a lot and they’re always fun. The food is incredible and authentic!
Right gear is key. You’re right! A hot chocolate race sounds so fun! I like the fun 5ks. I might do some around here this fall!!
YES! It is nice:) & I cannot waittttttttt to get crazy! lol It’s been too long.
xo
Malorie says
Your calves, your quads, your body…goals!
Are you doing a challenge soon?
Taralynn McNitt says
Haha well thank you Malorie!
I WILL be doing an October challenge! I wanted to take a small break during September. 🙂
Allie says
Its so cool how you are an Iowa fan! I go to a college in South Dakota that is really close to the Iowa border so many of my friends were at the big Iowa game this weekend! What a small world. 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Allie!
GO HAWKEYES! I’m from Iowa so I bleed black and gold forever 🙂
You’re right. It’s such a small world!
I went to SD when I was in 7th grade and I need to go back soon! Gorgeous state.
xo
Taralynn
Tara @ Run and Live Happy says
You should do a half marathon!! It’s such an amazing feeling when you cross that finish line! It’s such an accomplishment! For winter running gear, I like under armor because it keeps you warm but also lets the sweat out. I also get warm socks, glove, ear muffs, and sometimes I wear a face mask depending on how cold it is. Once you get going, your body will adjust and it’s not too bad. I actually like running in the cold weather.
Taralynn McNitt says
I will if I can gradually work my way up there. Every time I do a training program, it’s too fast and I end up getting hurt or overtraining. I’m gradually working my way up and I have a feeling the winter will be great for running. I know when I do it, it’ll be so last minute and a very random run! I hate pressure 🙂 I know it’ll be an amazing feeling. Under Armour is so great for running. I almost get TOOOOOO hot in their gear. I start stripping and tying them on my waist. I have to get my ears covered and my hands covered and I’m good. I hope it doesn’t get “face mask” cold here! The first mile is always the worst.
xo
Haley says
Looking so pretty!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you Haley! 😀
Linda @ the Fitty says
Winter workout tip: it’s colder so you need to take longer to warm up!
Taralynn McNitt says
That is definitely helpful! 🙂 Have a great weekend Linda!
XO
Taralynn
Emily says
I just went to Charleston for a bachelorette this past weekend, it was such a blast! If you can/you go to the beach I definitely encourage you to do the surf lessons (we were able to get them for $30 each and its for 90 minutes) it was so fun!
Taralynn McNitt says
I think we are going to get nailed with rain!! 🙁 But a surf lesson would be so fun!
Christina D says
I completely agree about those slow and relaxed mornings! I don’t have to be out the door until 8, but I wake up between 5 and 5:30 because I HATE feeling rushed and I love to relax when I get up—short workout, walk my pup, a little bit of TV while I eat a real breakfast, not a granola bar as I’m running out the door…oh and COFFEE.
Taralynn McNitt says
Yes! I love that relaxing time. Sounds like you have a great routine and i’m sure your pup loves that awake time with you!
Amanda says
I would just like to say that I have been seeing such a huge difference in Becca from when you first started adding her to your blogs, to now. I can tell you are such an inspiration to her, and sometimes having a workout buddy that is as in to fitness as you are is just what you need to help keep you on track. I can see such a dramatic difference in her body since the beginning, and i’m very proud of her and you!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Amanda!
Her transformation is incredible. She works so so so so hard! To be honest, she really motivates me. She also never turns down a gym date and that keeps me going. We have so much fun working out together and really share a love for healthy eating. I’m lucky to have a friend like her. I will make sure to pass this comment to her because I bet it’ll make her day!
xo xo
Taralynn
Imogen says
Winter workout tip would be to find someone similar pace to you that would go running with you! My brother is a strong runner and he goes running with me 3 nights a week at my 9-10 minute mile pace, and it’s so much easier to push yourself to go out into the cold weather when someone else is ready to come with you! Otherwise you make excuses for yourself!
Taralynn McNitt says
I think I’m going to try out a running group. That may be an extra motivation! It’s great your brother runs with you! My brother runs a 7 minute mile, so I’d be dead if I had to run with him!
Brooklyn says
I wish I had a friendship like yours and Becca’s! It’s great to see how much you two inspire each other, and always eat healthy and workout together, but still do crazy things together also 🙂
That salad from Paco’s Tacos looks so awesome!
http://www.justbeingbrooklyn.com
Taralynn McNitt says
I do feel very lucky to have a friend like her! We definitely are crazy together, that’s for sure! It’s so nice being able to find a friend that supports a healthy lifestyle and lives one as well. I agree.
That taco was soooo good. The chipotle ranch was perfection.
have a great weekend B!
Savannah @Savvy Thoughts says
That baklava ice cream looks AMAZING!!
Taralynn McNitt says
Dreaming of it already.
Liz says
Hi- I’m from Charlotte and winter running is my favorite. Best advice is to dress like its 20 degrees warmer than the temp outside. You will be a little chilly when you start, but once you are warmed up you’ll be dressed perfectly and not overheat or feel the need to strip off layers ?
And then take a hot shower and drink coffee to warm up after you’ve finished.
I had a latte with coconut milk from Living Kitchen today. You should check them out if you haven’t already!
Taralynn McNitt says
Yes!
I couldn’t agree more with that.
Coffee after a cold run is always my favorite!:)
I go to Luna’s all the time and their coconut milk lattes are my favorite! + the harvest arugula salad & the broccoli waldorf!
xo xo
Madita says
I first want to say that I love your blog so much and your a big inspiration for me.
And I wanted to ask, where did you put the things you take with you on the run? Like the pepperspray, keys or anything else?
Maybe you answered the question already, than I am sorry but I just never know where to put them 😀
Excuse my english, I’m from germany and still working on it to be better.
Thank you so much for all your posts, they’re always so awesome. 🙂
meighan avalos says
So proud of Grumples on his walking distances! He has a great mama 🙂 That baklava sundae is <3 <3 <3
Jessica says
If you can run 6 miles and not be out of breath, you’re ready for the half I swear! I’m sure 10 won’t be as bad as you think.
Festivals this summer – no – but we’re going to Oktoberfest (in Munich) in a week and a half.
Winter work outs – layers 😉 I’m sure you knew that. lol
Bachelorette party – such a good time to catch up with friends. We always stay up too late, eat too much food, and indulge in alcohol a bit more than we usually do.
Tami says
I’ve been looking at getting a Nespresso for a few weeks now, scrolling through your site and doing some research. So I was extremely excited when I ran across a Nespresso Vertuoline on sale for $99.00 and I had a coupon that brought it down to $80 yesterday!
My question to you is, where do you get your capsules? I’m always looking for the best deal! 😉
Love your blog! It allows me to live in Charlotte vicariously through you!
Taralynn McNitt says
I buy them on amazon in the giant variety box! 🙂
Lauren @ Following the Path of Life says
Hi Taralynn!
Wow… your running distances are amazing; that’s wonderful! I’ve never done a half either, but I’m hoping to do one in June. I just have to train very slowly or else I’ll likely wind up with more injuries.
I’ve never been to a food/culture festival or a bachelorette party. (Not exactly at least. My bridesmaids came up for a few days before my wedding and they helped me make and decorate all the cakes and cupcakes, plus create the floral arrangements — that was tons of the fun and the girls were so much help!)
I actually really enjoy running in winter because I don’t overheat and the snow provides a soft cushion. I always dress in layers and wear gloves and a headband. If the paths will be icy, I wear winter traction gear with studs; they’re basically rubber straps that slip over the sole of your shoe and have studs on the bottom for traction (I think my husband bought them at Ace hardware.)
I hope you had a wonderful weekend at the bachelorette party!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks so much Lauren!
I agree with you on training (on your own time) and slowly. Everyone is different.
Sounds like you had fun with your bridesmaids!!
I’ll have to follow all of your running adventures this winter for some motivation!!
xo xo
Carly says
I live for my mornings too! I love a quite cup of coffee followed by a nice walk with Moose! If I rush my morning too much my whole day feels slightly out of whack! The greek festival looks awesome! My college roommate was greek and she introduced me to all of the food and activities and I instantly fell in LOVE with the food! Baklava ice cream sounds amazing!!
I haven’t gone to any festivals this summer, but I did go to a giant outdoor shopping market while visiting Norway. But it seemed like a festival with all of the food, music, and activity going on ha! Maybe Norway just does markets better than us! ha
Winter workout tips are hard! I always have a hard time motivating myself in the winter because it gets too cold and icy to do much outside! But I have learned that warm ears and fingers are key! The rest of me gets warm as I workout but theres not much you can do for your ears or fingers while running!
I don’t know about crazy bachelorette party happenings, since the only one I’ve been to is my own! ha! I think just having a good time with great friends will always turn into a goofy fun night with funny memories!
Taralynn McNitt says
Sounds like your roommate spoiled you and most likely ruined any greek food that isn’t authentic for you! Goodness it’s delicious. The ice cream was incredible!
I bet moose loves his morning walks with you! I love taking Grumples out 🙂
the ears and fingers are what gets the coldest for me! I have to wear a headband and gloves!
Sounds like you and I had the same experience! xo
Jaime says
1. I went to Made in America, a music festival in Philly over Labor Day weekend and it was surprisingly full of healthy (but overpriced) food options! Although we indulged in some junk, we logged 15 miles over two days, so we felt less guilty. But we also got fresh smoothies that were as good as the ones I make at home 🙂
2. I used to live in Boston and would run in 30 degree weather. I usually wore two pairs of running pants, a long sleeve shirt and a light jacket (all about the layers) along with a headband that covered my ears and running gloves that worked with my phone. Since the cold is such a shock to your lungs, I would run back and forth in my apartment or do a bunch of jumps and jumping jacks before heading out. Warming up + layers = tolerable outdoor workouts. And it’s such a thrill! You feel super hardcore lol.
3. I’ve only been to my sister’s. I’d say the craziest part was when we left the hotel to hail a cab. We were only going 3 blocks away but it was raining. This guy in a nice SUV says his name is Limo Kev, and he’ll give us a ride. The hotel says he’s totally normal so we hop in. He gives us the VIP treatment and we even got a picture with him. Not that crazy, but at the time we were cracking up!
Taralynn McNitt says
Sounds like a fun festival!
I could NEVER run in boston weather. I follow some bloggers that do and they amaze me.
That is such a funny moment!!!
Briana says
I don’t think I’ve ever commented here but I really enjoy reading your blog and you really inspire me to start eating healthier. I have always been able to push myself working out… it’s food that’s my weak spot.
You should definitely sign up for a half marathon!! I just completed my 8th one and they are such a fun event. I was once told my a marathon runner that if you can do half the distance in training you can do the full distance the day of the event… it’s just a rush with so many others around you running and people on the sides cheering on all the strangers running by. For winter gear I can’t live without my Under Armour gear. Although I’m up in North Dakota (sorry to say my Bison beat your Hawkeys this weekend 😉 ) and I always need to carry a bunch of tissues since my nose runs like crazy when it’s cold. I can’t wait until you sign up and can recap your first event!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Briana!
Thank you for the kind words:) We all have a weak spot and sometimes it’s desserts for me! I go through phases.
I’d love to do a half but I want to be ready for it naturally and not with training. It sounds silly, but I get nervous and I just want to do it when Im ready! I’m not sure I love all the people around or racing other runners. I really LOVE running for the high of it and the fun. I would like to try it at least once though!
GET OUT OF HERE WITH YOUR BISON STUFF 😉 lol SAD LOSS.
tissues are definitely a must!! Your sleeves can only hold so much (gross) haha
xo
Erika says
Hi Taralynn! I’m so impressed by your dedication to walking Mr. Grumples and getting that little extra weight off–he’s so lucky to have a friend/owner like you!! I was just catching up on your blog and a question crossed my mind–have you heard of/ever considered following a workout program like Kayla Itsines’? I’d be curious to hear your thoughts on it.
Thanks and hope you’re having a great week!!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Erika!
I love him to death and want him to be around as long as he can, so waking up early and getting I’m shape is worth it! It’s also healthy for me to do the same. I really don’t like following workout programs, but doing what I feel like doing that day! I love doing workouts from Kayla randomly or other workouts! You just have to do what works for you and your schedule:)
XO
Taralynn McNitt says
I also really love my gym dates with my friend:)
Erika says
Makes sense, thanks for the reply!! 🙂
Leanne says
You’re a cutie pie!
Taralynn McNitt says
Awww thank you 🙂
Jess says
You are my fave blogger!
Taralynn McNitt says
aww thank you 🙂
Naomi says
Where do you buy all your really cute clothes? I especially love the flowy, off the shoulder white ones 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you! I get them from everywhere! That top in particular is from American Eagle 😉
Anonymous says
cute
Anonymous says
cuties
Anonymous says
You’re so pretty
V says
I ran across your blog by accident (stumbleupon).