Hi Everyone 🙂 How are your weeks going? I hope you have some fun plans for the weekend. My week has been an active one, but a consistent one. I live for consistency because it never lasts. I’m lucky when I get weeks like this! I even turned down a fun trip this weekend because I don’t feel like leaving. I like to plant my roots sometimes and stay put. I love being a tourist in my own town and soaking up all the fall festivities before they’re gone. Staying home allows me to work on my blog, stay active, eat healthier, and catch up on everything. Speaking of catching up, it’s time for a weekly recap before the exciting weekend begins!
I’ve been in love with the weather lately because it’s perfect for running. My friend, Meighan, and I have been following a new running schedule. I’m hoping it’ll prepare me for a half marathon. I don’t want to rush it or get too excited, I just want to keep improving as I have been.
The great part about living in Charlotte, NC, is that the trails are endless. There are gorgeous greenways and trails all over the place. We’ve been trying to change it up and visit a new trail every week. We love the Sugarcreek Greenway that leads to Freedom park because it’s so close to uptown.
Since we ended up walking 12 miles on Tuesday, we decided to just run three miles and walk three miles. We run a slower pace and longer distance on Sundays and run a faster 5k during the week. We kept a pace of 9:24. That’s my comfortable pace. Our first mile was 8:24, but we both got cramped and overdid it a little.
After our run, we headed to Romare Bearden park to do a workout with the stone blocks. It’s fun to use the outdoors as your gym and our workout was intense.
I made a caesar salad for dinner with a Greek Yogurt on the side.
I sat on the couch to watch The Parent Trap while Kyle meal prepped for the week. I passed out around 9:30 and little Leo made himself cozy. Thank you for this cute photo Kyle 😉
I headed out around 6:30 am to take Grumples on a long walk around the fourth ward. It’s starting to look like fall here. I don’t remember October in the Carolinas because I spent that time in D.C. last year. I can’t wait to visit D.C. soon! I bet it’s gorgeous up that way right now.
I live for the beautiful fall mornings:)
The pups were so ready for the weekend to start.
I walked to Panera Bread on Friday night to pick up dinner. I’ve been obsessed with their Panera app because I can order my food, pay through the app, and then pick it up in ten minutes.
Kyle and I spent Friday night watching movies! Just the way I like it.
Grumples was ready for his long walk Saturday morning. It was really chilly outside, so we bundled up and headed out. I forgot to pick up coffee creamer, so I had to drink Orange Chiffon tea to get my caffeine fix.
After our walk, we headed out to run some errands. I love running around on the weekends, especially during the fall months.
I was SO ready for coffee. People get hangry without food and I get hangry without coffee! I ordered a tall latte with four shots of espresso + 1 pump of pumpkin spice! So perfect.
Walking through the fall sections at Homegoods is like walking through heaven. (I promise I’ll paint my nails soon)
I had my leftover Panera salad for lunch with 3 egg whites +1 yolk.
I finally bought Lemon Essential Oil for my Aroma Diffuser ! 🙂 If you can find a fall essential oil, please let me know! My brother and Karlee bought me my diffuser for a birthday gift last year and I’m obsessed with it. I read somewhere that if you get late-night sweet cravings, diffuse peppermint essential oil because it curbs the sweet tooth. Not sure if there is any truth to this, but I’m going to test it out. I always get a late-night sweet tooth.
Those faces…pa pa pa paleassseeee take us to play!
We couldn’t say no to those faces! How could you? We took the pups to play at the ball fields and they had a blast! There are tons of trails and cool parks to visit in Charlotte, but we are lacking in dog parks. I’d love to see more 🙂 That is one thing I miss about Atlanta.
Whenever Grumples is done running around, he goes to the dugout. It’s the cutest.
They had so much fun!
Finally…..me time 🙂
While the boys napped, I cleaned out my whole closet. I pulled about fifty pieces I do not wear anymore and I’ll be putting them up for sale soon.
Kyle and I didn’t feel like cooking or making a trip to the grocery store, so we decided to go to Genghis Grill for dinner.
Genghis grill is one of my favorite places and I’ve been blogging about it for years. I love that I can pile a bowl high with meat and vegetables.
I always get peppers, snow peas, squash, zucchini, onions, carrots, chicken, steak, egg, and crabmeat. I add a little soy sauce, chili sauce, garlic powder, and garlic water for flavor.
I was excited for Sunday morning. I woke up to have coffee and walk Grumples before meeting up with Meighan for our long run. After the walk, I had a bowl of oatmeal with pumpkin granola on top. It sounds like a weird combo (and it is) but its so good. Carbs on carbs before a long run.
I drink Amino Energy before I run to get a boost of energy, help my focus, and support recovery during and after my run. I drink Isopure Amino Supplement after my workout to help with recovery!
**You can read more about my running fuel here! **
We headed to the Four Mile Creek Greenway. It’s one of my favorite spots to run in Charlotte, especially in the summer because it’s shaded. If you need a spot to walk your dog, this place is great!
We only planned on doing six or seven miles, but you know how it is. If you’re on a roll, you keep going! We ran 45 minutes down the trail and 45 minutes back. Seeing everyone out running and biking inspired me so much.
Can’t control that runner’s high.
I was so proud of our run. We made sure to keep our pace super slow and focus on milage.
M1 9:45 M2 10:01 M3 10:04 M4 10:15, M5 10:30 M6 10:40 M7 10:38 M8 10:02
We decided to head to Clean Juice after the run for a post-workout treat. I can’t believe I’ve lived in Charlotte for almost three years and have never been here. It’s totally my type of place and now I cannot wait to go back!
I was impressed with the menu. They had so many options to choose from!
I will be trying one of these donuts next time!
I ordered the Intense One. My juice had a banana, spinach, kale, ginger, lemon, coconut water, and whey protein. I loved that this smoothie wasn’t sweet or full of added sugars. It was the perfect post-workout refresher!
I stopped to pick up some things at the Fresh Market on the way back and I found pumpkin Chobani!!! I have been looking for this for weeks.
I headed back to my place to hang with the pups and get to work. I decided to spend my Sunday on my couch blogging & it was perfect.
Some of you were asking what kind of coffee I use, and what I put in my coffee. I always use Seattle’s Best Medium Dark & Rich Ground Coffee and a couple of tablespoons of light cream or half & half with a half a packet of Stevia. Some people would argue that putting cream in your coffee is so bad, but it’s how I like it and I’ll never give it up. EVER. I have been using Seattle’s Best coffee for the past year and it’s by far my favorite.
I had my Genghis grill leftovers with some brown rice for lunch on Sunday afternoon. It’s always better the next day 🙂
I wanted a super easy dinner because I had a lot of work to do and didn’t have time to cook. I bought grilled chicken from Fresh Market and roasted some brussels sprouts for the side.
The chopped brussels were flavored with garlic powder, black pepper, Italian seasoning, onion powder, minced onion, sea salt, and 1 tsp honey. I baked the brussels for 35 minutes at 350.
I was super excited to try my pumpkin Chobani for dessert! I even topped it with Pumpkin Flax Granola from Sweet Home Farm. The yogurt was really good, but it needed a little bit more pumpkin spice!
I get super excited for the mornings because I live for my walks with Grumples.
We did 3 1/2 miles and then headed back for coffee and breakfast!
I had Greek yogurt mixed with vanilla protein powder, dried blueberries, and pumpkin granola. I took the pups out to my parent’s house on Monday night so I could let the run around in the backyard. I love sitting out on the patio and working while they run free. I made a veggie scramble with peppers, onions, garlic powder, light cream, Italian seasoning, onion powder, and Colby Jack cheese. YUM 🙂
I ended up falling asleep while watching Dancing With The Stars! I couldn’t believe Calvin Johnson Jr was in the bottom!
For breakfast on Tuesday morning: 1 Banana, 2 Scoops Vanilla Protein Powder, Ice, Unsweetened Almond Milk, Honey, and Chia Seeds.
I got a surprise in the mail from JCrew & New Balance…how random! This is a genius collaboration & I’m feeling it.
I’m kind of obsessed with their new line. I LOVE the blue and white striped pants, the polka dots and all the pops of yellow!
They sent me J.Crew premium capri and I promise it’s the most comfortable pair of pants I own now…They’re already in the wash so I can wear them again. I’m excited to see where this collaboration goes!
This is the part of the blog post where you’ll think I’m insane (if you don’t already think that), but that’s ok. Meighan and I walked 12 miles last Tuesday for one of our workouts, but we wanted to beat that milage and walk 13 miles. We left uptown at 4:30 pm and started the 13-mile adventure!
It’s really starting to feel like fall.
We stopped at CVS to grab water at mile ten! Gold Emblem has pumpkin latte suckers! Did your high school ever sell these for fundraisers back in the day? We used to love buying these during class.
We finished the 13.16 mile walk in 4 hours 44 minutes and 3 seconds. We had some stops in-between, but it was so fun. We are going to try to do long walks once a week. It’s perfect for getting out and enjoying the fresh air, chatting, and getting active! I doubt we’ll ever do 13 miles again because that was the painful number. 10-11 is about right.
How about the debates last night?!…I’m just glad they could at least talk about policy and issues rather than each other. Of course, I fell asleep at 10:30! I wish they weren’t on so late.
Grumples and I woke up early for a walk around uptown this morning. I’m sure you’re sick of hearing about my walks, my runs, and my repetitive eats, but this week has been one of my favorites. I love a little consistency. I’m heading out for a run tonight and then going to get started on my halloween costume! It’s going to be a fun DIY! 🙂 I’m also carving pumpkins this weekend! yay! 🙂 My next recap post will be much more eventful!
Questions for you!
- What are you doing for Halloween?
- What is the furthest you’ve walked?
- What should I make this weekend: pumpkin spiced cupcakes, pumpkin spiced cake pops, or pumpkin spiced oreo balls?
Clare says
We don’t really get much pumpkin spice flavour stuff here in England (other than the PSLs etc!). So jealous of your pumpkin yoghurt.
Taralynn McNitt says
You can definitely make your own PSL yogurt! Add a little honey, pumpkin spice seasoning (nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger, cloves) into vanilla greek yogurt!
Carrie says
You are so inspiring! Thank you for the running motivation. I wish I had a running partner!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you Carrie!
Have you thought about joining a running group!?
Shannen says
Loved this post! Is it weird how much I enjoying about other peoples lives? I am soaking up all of the Leo pictures! You definitely seemed to have a busy week, I miss being busy all of the time. This week has been a little crazier though, #birthdayweek!
Personally, I’ve never been a huge Halloween fan. So I will probably stay home with my sister and watch Supergirl or a movie (or both?!). Last year we all put on silly hats and showed up at my grandmother’s front door. Dressing up just isn’t my thing..
I have no idea what the furthest I’ve ever walked has been! 9 maybe 10 at a time? I love walking, but I’ve noticed that after about 3 or 4 my feet start to hurt. Have you ever noticed something like that? Maybe it’s the way I walk? I don’t know..
Pumpkin spiced cupcakes sound delicious! Cake pops do too, they are just more work!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you Shannen!
I don’t think it’s weird:) I enjoy following others as well. HAPPY BIRTHDAY WEEK!!! SO FUN 😀
We will probably be staying in and watching movies too! I’ll be going to a little halloween party with some girls, but nothin too crazy planned.
& yes! But I ordered Asic walking shoes and it changed everything 🙂
TRUE TRUE!! Cupcakes are fun.
Shannen says
What are some of your favorite blogs to follow?
Bethany @LuluRuns says
I don’t think we are doing much for Halloween, probably staying in and watching movies 😉 and I’ll probably whip up a healthy dessert!
I agree with you, I live for weeks that are filled with the things I love- like runs, healthy meals, and quite, early mornings.
Mmm! Pumpkin spice is one of my favorite falls flavors, I would love to see pumpkin spice cupcakes!
Taralynn McNitt says
Sounds like a good Halloween to me! We’ll be doing that on Halloween night.
YES:) I love those weeks as well.!
The cupcakes will be fun to make.
Kelli Van Wandelen says
I don’t think we are doing anything for Halloween right now. I love to walk around the neighborhood around this time, everyones houses are all decorated!
Walking is one of my favorite activities. The longest single walk I have done is the past year was 10 miles in San Fransisco, it was a long day with lots of hills.
I’s love to see some pumpkin cupcakes. This time last year I made pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting that were really yummy. I always send the majority of the treats I make to work with my boyfriend or else we will eat them all!
Taralynn McNitt says
Me too! My favorite was walking around Alexandria D.C.! They are so good at decorating the town homes there.
OMG I can’t imagine the hills you walked!!
Hahaha I know how that is:) xo
Brittany says
What are you doing for Halloween?
I am going to be a nurse for Halloween! Kidding, I will be working as a nurse all this weekend and Halloween weekend. I will be making Halloween funfetti cookies for work though!
What is the furthest you’ve walked?
I think the furthest I’ve walked is 10 miles this summer actually! My friend and I walked to get smoothies and didn’t realize how far it actually was, we got scorched! Oops.
What should I make this weekend: pumpkin spiced cupcakes, pumpkin spiced cake pops, or pumpkin spiced oreo balls
I’m voting pumpkin spice cupcakes! Sounds delicious, I hope you post a recipe!
Have a good weekend!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Brittany!
Hahah love that. Halloween funfetti cookies sound so good!!!
I bet you walk so much as a nurse!! Do you ever track your milage?
I’ll definitely be posting a recipe!
xo
Brittany Joy says
We do walk laps when it is slow, some of the other girls have fit bits so they track, but I don’t at work because it drains my phone battery. I may ask for a fitbit for Christmas so that I can join the tracking fun!
Melodie says
What are you doing for Halloween?
We’ll go out, probably have a drink OR go to a escape the room place or a board game lounge. On actual Halloween day, I’ll stay home to give kids candies and chips. I also want to have a Stranger Thing binge night on Netflix with my sister. She needs to watch that show, it’s soo good.
What is the furthest you’ve walked?
I havent tracked the miles but it was around 5 hours.
What should I make this weekend: pumpkin spiced cupcakes, pumpkin spiced cake pops, or pumpkin spiced oreo balls?
Oreo balls sound delicious!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Melodie
That sounds like a blast! I love staying in on Halloween night.
5 hours is a long time!
Oreo balls are my fave!! I can’t wait to try a pumpkin spiced oreo ball!
xo
Gabrielle says
Scentsy has a bunch of essential oils for fall! Pecan Sugarcane Vanilla, Vanilla Cinnamon Clove, Vanilla Nutmeg Cardamom. I’m OBSESSED with their wax melts..others give me headaches, but these are AMAZING! Enjoy 🙂 https://christinakinkade.scentsy.us/shop/c/3419/natural-and-essential-oils
Taralynn McNitt says
I didn’t even know Scentsy sold essential oils….Where have I been? Thanks for letting me know! I’ll make sure to check those out. xo
Elisa says
Hi!
I think I’m in love with the little Leo (he’s so cute <3)…
1.What are you doing for Halloween?
I'm not really a Halloween fan, so I'm gonna do like every year : candies, chocolate, and a good scary movie! I'm not working on Halloween's day this year, it's a perfect program 🙂
2.What is the furthest you’ve walked?
Twenty miles (during my professionnal training). I'm never doing it again, my legs were so sore…
3.What should I make this weekend: pumpkin spiced cupcakes, pumpkin spiced cake pops, or pumpkin spiced oreo balls?
Cupcakes! I'm a huge cupcakes lover ^^
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Elisa!
He is seriously the cutest:) Him and Grumples are heartbreakers.
Your halloween night sounds perfect. I love watching Practical Magic on Halloween night!
OH MY! I don’t think I’d make it.
me too! 🙂 love cupcakes!
Bobbie says
I agree that a little cream in your coffee isn’t going to hurt you. However, fat free and half is horrible! When asked if it is healthy, Dr. David Katz, director of the Yale University Prevention Research Center says “Hell no!” It contains artificial ingredients including the carcinogen carrageenan. Just use regular half and half or full cream.
Taralynn McNitt says
Cool thanks for the tip!
Caitlyn says
AHH I wish I didn’t have to leave for work soon, whenever I read your posts it always makes me want to get up and go for a nice run or walk with my little pupper, I love seeing all the beautiful trails that you find around you, I’ve been working on finding some around where I live. Onto the questions:
Right now I don’t think I’m doing anything for halloween, I might take my dog to this celebration in my downtown area just to get out, but that’s about it.
The furthest I’ve walked purposefully is kinda pathetic, it’s only 4 and a half miles, but I have health issues that make it difficult for me to do long distances, so I’m pretty proud of myself for the 4 miles and one day I’ll work myself up to be able to go even farther ^_^
I would love to see pumpkin spiced cupcakes because I have no joke been craving cupcakes for the past two weeks and just haven’t had time to make them so it would be nice to have a new recipe to make
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Caitlyn!
Love that these posts can inspire you to get out and go for a walk or run! Hopefully you can get out there with the pup soon! I have found that using YELP for trails is amazing. It’s not only for food suggestions.
That would be so cool! Does your dog like dressing up?
That is not pathetic at all. 4 Miles is a great distance!
I have been in a cupcake crave for weeks! I haven’t had one in so long!!
xo
Christina says
I never get tired of seeing Grumples. So cute!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you Christina! I just love him so much 🙂
Brittany says
Hi Taralynn,
For Halloween, I’m taking my daughter to a church festival. We usually have semi matching themed costumes but this year, she is undecided. She wants to be a cheerleader, Elena of Avalor, or Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz! I’m up for anything!
I have no idea how far I’ve walked before. I haven’t tracked it. Maybe 4-5 miles?
I would love some pumpkin cupcakes!
Btw what protein powder do you use? Thanks!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Brittany!
That sounds so fun. I love festivals 🙂 It’s great that your church puts on a festival for you guys! I bet your daughter is so excited. I could never decide what I wanted to be as a kid!
4-5 miles is a great walk!
I use Dymatize ISO!
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00G6QHYZ6/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00G6QHYZ6&linkCode=as2&tag=undresskelet-20&linkId=5417d585f87bc9f2af37dd39126b85bd
Danielle says
This is my baby Beckett’s first Halloween (4 1/2 months old), so my husband and I are using him as an excuse to go trick or treating. Our nieces and goddaughter are tagging along too. Gotta love being a kid again with your kid! I’ve been slowly getting into running again with a jogging stroller to lose some baby weight. I’ve been toying around about doing a half marathon soon too!
My husband and I have walked the Boston Marathon 4 times for the Jimmy Fund. It’s an incredible (but painful) experience. Training for it is always a blast.
Anything with Oreo is okay by me!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Danielle!
I love that and I’d probably do the same! I hope you have fun and take tons of photos! I love handing out candy because of that reason. That jogging stroller is no joke! You’ll be in half marathon shape before you know it!
How many hours does it take you to walk it? So impressive!!
Have a great weekend.
Taralynn
Jennifer says
Nothing planned yet! Hopefully something comes up soon 🙂 We’ll be carving pumpkins this weekend as well!
That’s really hard to say…. but I’d say that I walk the most when I travel. The three big walking places have been NYC, San Fran, and New Orleans! They were all miles upon miles at a time. I want to back to New Orleans so bad! It’s an awesome place.
Well oreos are my favorite treat ever besides ice cream so.. oreo balls. But you can never go wrong with cake pops. And I also love cupcakes so… I’m no help here hahaha
Have a great weekend!
Taralynn McNitt says
We are carving pumpkins too!! I cannot wait. I’ve been trying to think of the perfect design.
Big cities like that ALWAYS involve tons of walking & I love it! My grandpa used to love to walk all the time and I think i got that from him!
haha no help! I guess I’ll have to make all of them.
I hope you have a great weekend as well!
xo
Taralynn
AshleyH says
Sounds Iike everything’s been going great for you! You look so happy. I vote for making the pumpkin spice cupcakes, yum! Cake pops are cute, but so much work. I’m already menu planning for Thanksgiving and always enjoy your family recipes. Have a great weekend!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Ashley!
Thank you so much & yes, it definitely is! I cannot wait for Thanksgiving this year!
I love that you’re already planning.
I’ll make both for sure! Maybe cupcakes this weekend!
xo
Stephanie says
That coffee mug in the pic with the Lemon Chiffon tea, my family used to have those exact dishes! Total blast from the past! I let out a little yelp when I saw it. Made me smile!!! 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
That is so funny! I actually found that at a thrift store a year ago. I thought it was the cutest little thing for tea! 🙂
Courtney says
My family had that exact pattern at my lake house growing up! I too let out a little yip when I saw it. Heartland collection, if I remember correctly?
Emily says
I went to college with Meighan! She is the nicest chick I know. It’s such a small world 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Such a small world for sure! & I agree she is! XO
Jennifer says
1. Trying to decide if this is the year to start taking my kid Trick or Treating. She’s 2 but we don’t live in a neighborhood so I’d need to find somewhere to go.
2. No idea how far we walked, but definitely my last trip to DC a few years ago. I just know my feet hurt really bad by the end of the day!
3. Cake pops! Yum!
Also, the Panera Order to Go is the best!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Jennifer!
I think it would be fun! Dress up and go find a fun neighborhood to trick-or-treat!
I know exactly what you mean. Every time I go to D.C. I end up walking MILES ON MILES. I clocked in 26 miles in two days last spring.
Cake pops it is! & YES the panera app is my go-to! xo
Have a great weekend!
Mechela says
I love the dog parks here in Atlanta! We recently adopted a retired racing greyhound. He is 3 and until last month, he had never seen another dog besides a greyhound. So we have been taking him to the Piedmont dog park to get used to other breeds. He doesn’t care to play with them, just sniff their butts!
No clue on the furthest I have walked. I am sure it is well into the teens. We used to live in England and to avoid pricy transportation, I would often just walk to wherever. Sometimes that would be several miles one way. I enjoyed those walks so it never seemed like much to me.
For Halloween we go to a midnight showing of Rocky Horror Picture Show where everyone dresses up and participates during the show. It is a lot of fun!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Mechela!
Awwww! You guys are so sweet. I LOVED the dog parks in ATL & so did Grumples!
Living in England sounds amazing. I remember walking everywhere when I was in Europe.
That sounds like the best Halloween ever!! You should definitely go!
Have a wonderful weekend!
xo Taralynn
Erin @ Brownie Bites says
I also get excited when I see pumpkin Greek yogurt in the stores – it’s so yummy. Trader Joe’s is my favorite brand. For Halloween, I’m wearing a skeleton maternity shirt that has a baby girl skeleton over the belly!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Erin!
I agree! I am going to go out and get the Trader Joe’s pumpkin yogurt. Everyone is telling me it’s delicious. I bet you look so cute in that shirt!
I hope you have a great weekend!
xo
Jamie says
1. No Halloween plans right now. I don’t really like Halloween that much, so I think I might make some Apple Cider Sangria and watch movies.
2. I actually don’t know! I’ve spent plenty of days walking all day at Disneyland; I’ve heard a day at Disney is usually 12-15 miles on average. Going on a walk just to walk would probably be 6-7 miles max.
3. PS Cake Pops, but I’m not going to be disappointed with whatever recipe you post because those all sound delicious!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Jamie!
Apple Cider Sangrias and movies? Sign me up!
I bet that is about right! I remember walking everywhere at Disney.
& I might just make them all haha.
xo
mira says
Walking 13 miles! I am so impressed!!! I don’t think I could convince my friends to walk that long with me… I need to find better workout buddies! Also your running impresses me so much and inspires me to run more. You will rock your half marathon. And I am dying over those pants you wore for your 8 mike run. Where can I get them??
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks Mira! I’m not sure I’ll be doing 13 miles every week! 10 is the magic number.
Thanks so much for the kind words. I really hope I can rock it! I think I’m getting closer and closer every time I run. I got those pants at Dicks Sporting Goods in the spring. They’re the Nike Dry Fit!
xo xo
Sam says
Those pants from your eight mile run! Where did you get them!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you Sam!
They’re the Nike Dry Fit running pants. I got them at Dicks Sporting Goods!
Brooklyn says
CAKE POPS!!!!!!!!
I love weeks like this, and they are awesome to read about!
I’m nosey I guess, but I love the repetitive eats (I’m the same way) and there are never too many pet photos!
The weather is looking so fall-esque!
For Halloween my bf & I just watch a few Nightmare on Elm Street movies. It’s so fun!
http://www.justbeingbrooklyn.com
Taralynn McNitt says
Hey Brooklyn!
Thanks so much 🙂 I’m glad you love reading about them (even the less eventful ones)
I’m all about the repetitive eats. Makes like easier!
The weather is amazing here and I’m so excited to go out and take photos today.
Your Halloween night sounds perfect.
xo
Melissa FitzGerald says
I love your recap posts! This kept me company on my break at work 🙂
1. I don’t think I’m doing much of anything! I work all weekend, and since an old friend is coming to visit that same week, all of the festivities are being saved for the first week of November! So far, we have three concerts and a Blackhawks game on the agenda. I’m so excited!
2. I don’t think I’ve ever set out on a walk with a specific mileage in mind, but my friend and I love wandering aimlessly for hours around Lincoln Park, especially this time of year! We normally leave around 5-6 and don’t get back until 10. It’s so great and relaxing!
3. Those all sound delicious! I have to vote Oreo balls, though. 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you Melissa!
Sounds like you have one booked agenda! A fun one:)
I agree with you! It’s the perfect time of year to just walk around and explore.
Oreo balls could be fun. I may have to make all of them!
xo
Kalie says
Your recap posts are my favorite. I love drinking coffee and reading them while I’m at work because they always inspire me to workout when I get home!
Taralynn McNitt says
I love hearing that! xo
Thank you for reading!
Steph says
My sister is super into essential oils and actually was diffusing a pumpkin spice blend last week with a few different oils, I’m not quite sure of the names…but if you check out simple.significant on Instagram I’m sure she’d be more than willing to help! 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you for tagging me in the Instagram. I cannot believe pumpkin spice blend is a real thing. ‘ll definitely be asking her for some help! xo
Linda @ the Fitty says
Wait, did I read that right– a 13 mile walk in 44 minutes?no way! That’s faster than even my running?
I don’t have much planned for Halloween. I want to take my siblings out trick or treating but I have class at 9am on Tuesday so I don’t think I will.
Also,hip hip hooray for half marathon training! Do you think your body is ready for it? I ask because in the past you said you wanted to give yourself a rest because you’re hitting a weight loss plateau.
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Linda!
Oh, no! You missed the “4 hours” in front of the 44! 😉 If I was that fast, I’d be in the olympics.
Maybe hang out with your siblings a bit before they go out for Halloween photos and then a movie!? I love movies on Halloween night (SCARY ONES)
I’m not technically training, I’m just slowly working my way up there. Eventually I will be ready for it! I’m so used to shorter/faster runs, so the long runs are really helping and I actually enjoy them more!
I didn’t say “weight loss plateau” just a fitness plateau. I didn’t feel like I was making any progress or seeing any muscle changes, but I think it was all in my head.
XO
Linda @ The Fitty says
Ah, thanks for replying, Tara!
I also LOVE scary movies so much. If you lived closer I would love to watch Oujia with you.
Nicole says
Well, pumpkin spice makers everywhere can thank you for your suggestive selling. You’ve got us hooked on PS Cheerios and now I’ve got to try this PS greek yogurt! LOL. Earlier this year, I walked from one side of our town to the other before we left CA. It was about 6 miles. I felt so accomplished and it’s a fun memory now that we are gone. My vote is for Cake Pops! I’ve tried the oreo balls and they are kind of a weird texture.
Taralynn McNitt says
Hahaha perfect.
Seriously though…those pumpkin spice Cheerios are bomb. I wasn’t expecting them to taste so good. Now you can do PSL Cheerios on top of the PS yogurt. Walk across town is always fun! I used to do that with friend back in high school. I grew up in a smaller town and it was about a two hour walk. I haven’t made cake pops in such a long time! I need to get on it 🙂
xo
Hannah says
Your recap posts make my Saturday mornings so much better. I am now inspired to get out and explore my own city 🙂 Have a great weekend Taralynn!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you Hannah!:) Your comment just made my saturday!!! I hope you have a great time explore!! xo
Katelyn says
I always look forward to your recap posts! Your post on running SAVED ME! I have always wanted to be a runner just didn’t know how to get into it. I am really excited because I am starting your 6 weeks on Monday.
I made my first attempt at making your semi-homemade apple pie! IT was delicious and an easy make to bring to holiday parties! I just don’t know how to make it not runny! It was amazing- just want it to hold together a little better!
THANK YOU FOR BEING AMAZING!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you Katelyn!
I’m so excited to follow your running progress! Let me know how your training goes!!
You should try to add an extra egg a little more flour and bake it longer!:)
xo xo xo xo xo
steph says
Random, but what kind of salad is that from panera? It looks yummy!
Taralynn McNitt says
It’s a fuji apple chicken salad with tons of added toppings! I did like cucumber, chicken, avocado, egg, pecans, onions, tomatoes, parmesan crisp, spinach, and parm!
Jessie @ The Acquired Sass says
Those chai spiced pumpkin donuts sound amazing. Not telling you what to do, just sayin’ I bet you could create something similar & then post it for all of us who are so lost on how to do things like that. 🙂 I can cook & make up savory recipes, but baking is a whole other ballgame, I don’t quite have the balls to make my own recipe.
1. We got invited to a Halloween party, they live down the street. But my other half works ’til 11 PM that night, which frankly is past my bedtime. So, not sure if we’ll make an appearance or if I’ll send him off on his own. I’m headed to a fall party, potluck style. We’re gonna try all the great booze recipes & pumpkin things we see all over Pinterest!
2. Umm, I don’t know that I’ve ever walked all that far. Maybe 7 or 8 miles. I’ve done longer hikes, like 14+, but I think walking can be more tiring than running just because you’re on your feet for so long. 2 hours to run 13 versus 4 hours to walk. That’s a lot of time on your feet.
3. After you make those chai spice pumpkin donuts // muffins you should do pumpkin spice cupcakes.
Also, to everyone hating on cream in coffee. Really? If that’s your worst habit then you go girl. A few TBS of cream will not be your downfall.
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Jessie!
That would be so fun to try and recreate that. I think it’s a good idea:) I cold try to make them less sugary as well.
Potluck style parities are the best because they give you an excuse to cook anything and everything! I bet you’ll make something amazing, especially if it’s coming from pinterest!
I almost think a 13 mile run would be easier than the walk! That was exhausting.
HAHA SERIOUSLY!! 🙂
Anna says
1. I’m going to a silent auction benefit/dinner for my church back home the Saturday before Halloween. I’m really excited because last year was a blast and this year I’m going to dress up and really make a fun night of it. Plus they’re providing wine 😉
2. The furthest I’ve walked is probably only about 5 miles or so. I’ve never kept track, but I probably should!
3. Oh my goodness. Pumpkin Oreo balls sound crazy good! I vote for those 🙂 Love your recaps! I’m all about consistency as well. It’s nice sometimes when life gets crazy to just fall into a healthy routine for a bit.
Taralynn McNitt says
That’ll be a bast, especially with wine! What are you going to dress up as?
& thanks so much for reading! Glad you love the recaps because I enjoy writing them!
xo & have fun at the auction!
Mandie says
I just ordered the new camel jacket in your collection! I cannot wait to wear it!
Taralynn McNitt says
Oh yay! so exciting:) i think you’ll love it!
Hannah says
All of your walks inspire me to get out more! I know my dog would love more walks, it’s just so cold!
1. I am probabaly going to take my little sisters trick or treating this Halloween! She is so excited so I am glad I got the day off of work.
2. The furthest I walked on a regular walk was probably 6 miles, but a couple of summers back at Disneyland I think we were getting 14-15 miles everyday!
3. Pumpkin spiced cake pops sound amazing! I haven’t made cake pops in awhile, I think that will be my next treat.
Taralynn McNitt says
That is awesome Hannah! I love hearing that 🙂 The dogs LOVE it and it’s great for bonding.
Awww that is so nice of you! Such a great big sister.
Wow! that is a ton of miles but I believe it! SO much walking at Disney!
It’s been so long since I’ve made them too. That’s all I used to do!
xo
Michaela says
Hello lovely lady! I have to ask, where did you get your black and white patterned tights from!? They’re gorgeous! Love from New Zealand x
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you:) They’re the Nike Dry Fit!
Kat says
I love all your gorgeous pics of the fall landscape! It seems like fall is arriving a lot later here in dallas. We’re getting there though!
I’ve been following your blog for years now and it’s so fun to see how you’ve evolved. I also had the strangest/funniest dream where I met you and we talked about food the entire time haha.
I definitely think you should make all of them!
Xoxo
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you so much Kat! Hopefully you get some cool weather soon.
You know what is funny? People tell me they dream about me all the time! It’s like a super common thing. I must be instagramming or blogging late at night 😉
i think so too!! xo
Mackenzie says
Yess. Consistency is the best. I agree. After a summer of living out of a suitcase I was so ready for a schedule of some kind. Also real quick: I’m in sensory overload with all your fall pumpkin recipes scrolling next to this post. Girl, I’m never going to stop baking now (especially because nursing boards are ova, HOLLA!). Not sure how you passed up those donuts…. Holy moly will-power. Hope you are having a beautiful weekend.
Taralynn McNitt says
Yay for the boards being over!!! I can’t wait to see all of your bakes:):) I won’t be passing them up this weekend! xo
Carly says
I love this post and consistency! I always look forward to your recaps with a cup of coffee, how’s that for consistency ha! I also thrive on having routine days where I can know exactly what to expect.
My only Halloween plans are to dress Moose up like a tiger for a puppy party at the local dog park! And maybe making some pumpkin cookies to keep me spirited!
I dont know the longest I’ve walked but I think it’s probably around 10-12? I always walk TONs when traveling especially in europe, I wish I walked more at home. I wish I had trails like yours near me! Your walk and run pictures are so beautiful and inspiring!
Can I vote for all of the baked goods? They all sound delicious!
p.s. I ADORE the pictures of grumples and leo! They are so increadably cute and look like so much fun together!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Carly!
Thanks so much 🙂 Love hearing that you read my blogs with your coffee! I love writing them with my coffee.
OMG, Please send me a photo of dressed up moose! TOO CUTE!
10-12 is a long time! I know what you mean about the miles you pack on while traveling, especially in Europe!
You can! 😀
& thank you!! They are a handful, but I love them so much!
xo have a great weekend
Gabby says
Thieves essential oil by Young Living Essential Oils! Smells like Chai tea, perfect for fall has all kind of health properties too! I have the cleaner and use it on everything.
https://www.youngliving.com/en_CA/products/thieves-essential-oil
Taralynn McNitt says
That sounds lovely! i’ll check it out 🙂
Jamie says
Hi Taralynn! I’ve just started/committed to being more active to take care of myself. That means I need to get more work out clothes since I have nada! Since it’s a whole new world for me, do you have any posts that talk about your awesome workout wardrobe or favorite pieces? Thanks so much!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Jamie! Workout clothes are definitely fun!
When I was trying to lose weight, I bought less expensive workout clothes because I knew I’d have to get rid of them! I LOVE target clothes and old navy workouts clothes for the less expensive side. Now that I run a lot, I LOVE shopping at Fabletics, Underarmour, Nike, Athletica, and gap!
Robbie says
Hey Taralynn, great post! Plant Therapy has a collection of fall essential oils that you might like: https://www.planttherapy.com/search?Store_Code=PT&q=fall+holiday+blend. I ordered them, but had to return them because I found out some of the essential oils in them are harmful to cats’ livers, so I’m not exactly sure how they smell, but thought I’d throw it out there as a suggestion 😉
Hayli says
Like Robbie said in her comment, check out https://www.planttherapy.com/search?Store_Code=PT&q=fall+holiday+blend . Also sign up for their emails and they’ll send you a $10.00 off coupon! They always have free shipping and it’s super quick. There are some pages on Facebook for essential oils around pets too that tell what’s safe and what isn’t to diffuse around them.
Danielle says
Love your posts!
Maddie says
Hey Taralynn!
Love following you on Insta. My favorite fall blend is actually a Young Living blend called “Christmas Spirit” and adding Lemon and Clove to it. Smells like my mom’s house when I was growing up. Just throwing it out there in case you want to try!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you Maddie!!