I’m so excited for 2017 because all of my reality television shows are back, but more excited to crush some new goals. I made it one year injury free and have continued to run. I am so proud of how far I’ve come and I really look forward to where I’m going. As you already know, I’m running a half marathon this spring. I’m hoping to run four by 2018! A couple other important goals I have for 2017 is to continue living a healthy lifestyle, start practicing yoga more, posting more recipes on the blog, and a couple other personal goals I have set.
I spent New Years in Washington, D.C. with Kyle. We visited my brother and enjoyed some time exploring. It was a very low-key trip and I had so much fun. We didn’t have any set plans, or expectations. We just decided to spend some time together before the New Year!
I wanted to fit a long run in before our trip. I knew I wouldn’t run in D.C. and I couldn’t pass up the sixty degree weather in Charlotte. I ran through uptown, hopped on Little Sugar Creek Greenway, through Freedom Park, down Park Road, and finally onto Woodlawn. It was a beautiful run and it felt great. Sometimes running is enjoyable and sometimes I hate it. That’s the beauty of running. My headphones had a short in them, so they didn’t work the entire run. I’ve never ran more than a mile without my headphones. I don’t know what came over me, but I ran without them and it ended up being one of my best runs. I’ll never run without my headphones again because I love music, but I was still impressed with myself. It’s all about mindset. Most of my run was uphill, minus the 7:20 minute mile. The last mile was the hardest because I ran up a never ending hill in the back neighborhoods! This route was awesome for training! I can’t wait for Thursday because my running buddy gets back from Europe!
Becca picked me up on Woodlawn and we headed to the mall. She needed an outfit for the night and I went for the coffee! I had a Acai Pomegranate EBOOST Natural Energy Powder when we got there. It was so refreshing after that run! Before I left the mall, I had a skim latte with three shots of espresso.
I was so hungry later in the afternoon, so we stopped at Mac’s Speed shop. I ordered some plain smoked wings.
I really wanted a new jacket from the Nike store, so I headed to the outlets on Thursday morning. I had my eyes on a jacket for months. It was $160 when I first saw it, and I almost bought it. I saw that it was on sale for $75, so I headed out to get it! 🙂 Sometimes waiting for sales is the smart way to go! Before I went to the outlets, I a did a quick gym circuit and then grabbed a latte at the Sunflour Baking Co!
I had dinner with Becca at Tupelo Honey Thursday night. We started with the delicious brussels sprouts.
I had grilled, marinated flat iron steak, with Appalachian corn soufflé and basil butter green beans.
When it actually comes out medium rare…makes me so happy!
I spent Friday getting ready for the trip. I had to drop the pups off at my parents and get them situated, pack, and then meet Kyle uptown at four to head out. I also love power cleaning before trips so I can come home to a perfectly clean house! We got caught in a little bit of traffic, so we decided to stop at Panera bread for dinner. I did the pick-two salad and soup combo. I had the fuji apple chicken salad with added steak, no cheese, and avocado added. I did vegetarian creamy tomato soup on the side.
We go tto D.C. at 11pm and decided to go straight to bed. We were so exhausted.
I go to Table Talk every time I’m in D.C. It’s the cutest little breakfast spot in Alexandria and it’s a tradition. Karlee was working, so we met my brother there. I ordered fresh cantaloupe, two eggs, and home fries.
Kyle and I had no plans for the day, so we just decided to walk and go wherever we felt like. I felt like some Killer E.S.P. coffee.
We walked in and out of the Old Town Alexandria shops.
We walked down to the waterfront to look at the views.
My favorite ♥
We hopped on the Metro and headed towards Georgetown.
We walked across the bridge and all the way down to Baked and Wired. There was a huge line, so we ditched that idea. I couldn’t believe the line! I’ve never seen that before.
We headed back to Alexandria to get ready for New Years Eve at my brothers.
I brought snacks from Whole Foods and a gluten free pizza. I brought Nut-Thins, jalapeño hummus, cucumber, guacamole, chips, salsa, mixed nuts, and some cookies.
We didn’t plan the matching outfits, but it was kind of funny. T.C had about twenty people over and we all played Fibbage. It was such a fun game! Everyone in the room plays from their cellphones, but it all shows up on the T.V.
We headed up to the rooftop to watch the fireworks a couple minutes before midnight.
Wouldn’t be New Year’s without the cliche kiss.
I had so much fun NYE! Kyle and I left the party and headed back to our hotel after the fireworks.
I woke up at 7am to get in a workout before Kyle woke up. I did this circuit twice and then did some deep stretching! This is a workout you can do right in your living room.
After getting cleaned up, Kyle and I headed to breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien.
I ordered the salmon and scallion egg-white omelet.
It also came with gluten free toast.
Le Pain Quotidien has the BEST coffee.
Kyle and I were on the hunt for new Nikes.
And we found some 🙂 My feet look huge in this photo, but I promise it’s the angle haha! I’m a nine!
We tried Baked and Wired again, but LINE! Ugh. We got a quick bite to eat at Dean & Deluca. I had a chicken kabob and lemon kale salad.
Their green juice was so good! Kyle even liked it, and he usually hates my green juices. The pear was the game changer.
We decided to walk down to the White House. We didn’t feel like doing all the monuments on this trip, because we’ve both done it plenty of times, but visiting the White House is always fun. I love the people watching.
We stopped at this little cafe called the “Market” to grab hot chocolates on our way to the White House.
I loved how quiet D.C. was. The cold winter sunset was beautiful.
There was a lot of construction going on for Trump’s inauguration. They’re building a giant platform in front of the White House and it reminded me of something from The Hunger Games. I guess he’s heading to the White House for a final speech after the inauguration at the capital building.
The Eisenhower Executive Office building is one of my favorite buildings in the U.S.
After stopping at the White House, we headed to the Metro so we could go back and get ready for dinner.
Baggage.
We walked down Old Town to meet T.C. & Karlee for dinner.
I loved all of the lights in the trees 🙂
Virtue Feed & Grain is one of my favorite Alexandria spots.
I ordered a salad with grilled chicken. My salad had chopped pears, avocado, spinach, kale, goat cheese, and honey mustard vinaigrette on the side.
I ordered a salad so I could have ice cream for dessert! Kilwins is one of my favorite spots for ice cream and pistachio almond is my favorite flavor in the entire world. I just found out that they have a Kilwins thirty minutes from me! I’m going to have to pick up some pints for the freezer.
Kyle and I woke up at 7am on Monday morning so we could head back to Charlotte. I had to make one last stop for coffee before taking off.
It was a quiet morning in Old Town and I loved it. I ordered a flat white at Killer E.S.P for the ride home.
I also picked up a green juice and Kate Bakes bar for breakfast.
I always get those bars when I’m in D.C.! The date flavor is my favorite.
Kyle enjoyed making a series of “What are you doing” snaps of me on this trip. I might have to collab them for your entertainment. We got back around 5pm and I couldn’t wait to see the pups! I made a latte and sat down on the couch with them for a movie! I had the best weekend ever 🙂
Questions for you!
- What did you do for NYE?
- Any fun January plans?
- Did you watch The Bachelor last night? – I did not want Nick to be the Bachelor, but it looks like it’s going to be a good season. So far I like Vanessa, Brittany and Rachel!
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says
Could your family be any more perfect? You, your brother and Kyle have awesome genes!
Washington DC looks AMAZING!
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Taralynn McNitt says
Awww thank you Charmaine! Means so much 🙂 Hope you had a great holiday! xo xo
Amy says
I didn’t want Nick to be the Bachelor either but the first episode seems like it might turn out ok….
Quick question:
Why are you eating gluten free all of a sudden? Are you trying it out or …? Sorry if it’s too personal of a question.
Happy New Year!
Taralynn McNitt says
I think if he speaks out more and lets his personality come out, he’ll be better! He’s a little dry and shady, but a lot of potential! The girls didn’t disappoint on drama haha
No it’s not personal at all lol
So I’ve been having some pretty bad cramping because I have endometriosis (tmi) and stomach bloating. My doctor recommended trying it out to see if it reduces inflammation around my stomach, joints and cramping. It has actually made a HUGE difference and it’s only month two, so this may be something I will most likely be transitioning to permanently.
Alyssa says
So happy to hear that the gluten free diet is helping your endometriosis! I have endometriosis too and am interested in anything that might help the killer cramps. If you have anymore tips I would love to hear!
Taralynn McNitt says
So far it’s reallllllllllly helped, but it’s still so soon and I’m sure I’ve had things with gluten that I wasn’t aware of..like cheese? what the heck! I’ll be able to know 100% soon. xo xo
Katie says
Orrrrr the croutons in your tomato soup that come on the side……
Taralynn McNitt says
LOL they actually don’t come on the side and I didn’t know they’d throw them on top. It’s an easy “SCOOP OFF” procedure.
Rachel says
I hate to mention it, but cutting back on caffeine can help with endometriosis pain also! Caffeine is a phytoestrogen and can have an effect. You just have to get past the 3 days of horrible caffeine-withdrawal headaches haha. Best of luck!
Taralynn McNitt says
haha. YES. I know. MAYBE….in the future. I do cut back during my monthly cycle, but I don’t know if I can handle no coffee. That’s worse than the pain!
Jennifer says
For NYE we triple-dated for lunch with two other couples! We went to Osaka (hibachi–not sure if they have them by you) and it was AMAZING. I love fresh hibachi. At night we went out and it was so much fun.. didn’t get home until 4am! oops…
Yes! I just moved into a new apartment yesterday 🙂 It’s so much bigger and there’s about 100 sq ft more than the other one… so it’s pretty big! I’m setting up a little “office” in the corner of my living room and I’m so excited. It’s placed so that when I sit I’m facing out instead of facing the wall… I’ve always wanted a room/area to do it and I’m so excited to decorate! I also had a really good phone interview this morning so I’m hoping that works out. Still waiting to hear back from others as well!
I did not. 1. I don’t have DVR so I can’t record my shows and 2. I’ve never liked Nick because he’s super shady… I might just wait ’til the next one!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Jennifer
I love hibachi!! Great choice for New Years! Sounds like you had such a fun night.
What a fun way to start the year and congrats on your move! I know you’ve been excited about it for a while! 🙂 So great to hear you are getting settled in and loving git. Happy for you! Hoping your phone interview went great!
lol I don’t blame you!
xo
Amanda says
What did you do for NYE?
We spent it with my parents and their good friends. I’ve been recovering from bronchitis for the past few weeks, so we kept it low key! Unfortunately I caught the nasty stomach bug going around around 2AM that night, so thank goodness we didn’t do anything too wild!
Any fun January plans?
Nope! School, work, school, work, and more school!!
Did you watch The Bachelor last night?
Yes! I’m officially sucked in thanks to last season! I wasn’t happy with the choice of Nick (should have been Luke) but it’ll be interesting that’s for sure! I like Vanessa a lot!
Taralynn McNitt says
Glad you’re getting a little better! Sometimes a low-key night is the best. I hope youre feeling back to health soon!:(
Well it’s winter, so a good time to do all the not-so-fun stuff.
hahaha Luke may have been boring, bot hot at least!!! I LOVE VANESSA!
Teresa says
Hi Taralynn, Happy New Years!
My husband and I went to Howl at the Moon in Chicago, a dueling Piano bar, for NYE. We took his brother & brother’s girlfriend, his cousin & cousin’s girlfriend. It was a family NYE so we had a ton of fun!
January- ah January. Not my favorite month because the magic of the holidays is over. Though, hubs and I just started a healthy eating/workout motivation group for all of our friends. We’ve been helping two of our close friends with workouts and tips so we figured we’d create a 100 day challenge for a larger group. Since everyone has different goals we’re going to run mini challenges (run miles, weekly step goals, recipe competitions, weight loss, etc.) depending on what each person is working on. At the end of the 100 days we’re going out to celebrate in a fun way. Hopefully that keeps us motivated and in good moods while it’s dreary in Chicago the next 3 months!
YES! My friends and I are doing a bracket. Our faves are Vanessa, Danielle, Sarah, and Raven. Though Shark girl is certainly providing some entertainment! I am looking forward to hearing what you think of the girls as the season continues 🙂
Have a great week!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Teresa!
I’ve actually been there! I went there for New Years four years ago! Such a fun spot and SUPER packed! Sometimes it’s hard to go out in Chicago because it’s so dang cold! I plan on visiting this summer.
I agree, but it’s a great time to start fresh and get ready for the summer months! I love the idea of mini challenges. 🙂
LOVE the bracket ideas. I may do that next season!! I’ll be live tweeting next week! xo xo
Susie says
Happy New Year, Taralynn!
My family and I were treated to a free steak and shrimp dinner on NYE at the casino my sister in law co-owns, then we met up with the rest of the family to ring in the new year. I could barely stay awake….I’m getting old.
I’m watching The Bachelor tonight. I swore I wouldn’t watch because I’m not a fan of Nick, but this show is a disease. I can’t stop watching, hahaha!
Taralynn McNitt says
Happy New Year Susie!
Oh yum!!! We almost went to the casino! & I love shrimp and steak!
HAHAHA That is EXACTLY how I feel.
Carly says
You make me want to visit DC and drink coffee! Looks like you and Kyle had a great trip!
Our NYE was relatively low key and involved appetizers and champagne with a couple friends, and then back home to hang out with the dog i.e. fall asleep on the couch ha!
I am bracing my self for a New England January ( COLD and WINDY). It was 40 yesterday, so I’m hoping it stays like that! its SO hard to be motivated for a dog walk when its below freezing all day! January also means VW is buying back my car (because of the diesel scandal they’ve recently had), so I get to go car shopping! Although the actual process is not that fun I am excited for a new car! 😉
I didn’t watch The Bachelor but I’m planning to watch it on demand tonight! I never watched it until Ben and Lauren’s season, but now I’m hooked for life! Oh the drama!! 😛
Taralynn McNitt says
We did have a great trip and plenty of coffee too!
I love low-key get-togethers with friends, especially with champagne!
Once its all over, you’ll be happy with a new car! Thats so exciting!
Lol I got hooked a couple year ago! ITS AMAZING. I started watching it during Andi’s season.
Lauren @ Following the Path of Life says
Hi, Taralynn!
Awesome pics, as usual.;) It looks like there’s so much amazing history to explore in D.C. — even just the style of the buildings! What fun!
I was actually going to to ask you about all of the gluten-free food lately, but I see somebody already asked that question. 🙂 I’m so glad it’s helping you! Would you ever be willing to do a post about it in conjunction with the endometriosis?
1. Alexander and I went to church, then came home to watch one of his favorite movies — Signs (NOT a huge hit for me) — and play games. It was a pretty laid-back evening.
2. I hope to get a couple of craft projects done this month — a drawing/pastel for a friend and baby blanket for my cousin who’s due in February. Other than that…just getting back into the regular routine of things.:)
3. No…I’ve actually never watched the Bachelor. However, we have been on a West Wing kick lately; Alexander introduced me to it and they’ve been pretty good so far (politics aside). We’re going through Season 2, which is one of his favorites.
Have a great week, Taralynn! Keep up the awesome running. Your times for that 7-mile run were fantastic!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Lauren!
Thanks so much. D.C. is a beautiful place and it’s surrounded by so many great neighborhoods. You could live there for years and still have so much to see and do left. We had a great time!
I have thought about writing about it for a while, but I may put it off until I can actually understand and figure it out myself. I’ve had it for three years now and sometimes I feel defeated with pain and sometimes I don’t even notice it. I may write sometime soon, but I do love reading other stories online with people who are experiencing it.
That movie is so spoooooky. Have you seen The Visit yet? It’s made by the same people who did Signs and I think you’d like it and your husband! It’s funny, spooky, and has a good storyline!
I love coin projects! I have a couple in mind this month too!
Ive heard that show is really good. I may have to look into it!
xo xo Thanks for the encouragement. I have a run scheduled for this evening and I’m excited to get out there!
Heather @ Polyglot Jot says
I hope that the gluten free diet helps you! I cut out gluten after tons of issues last year and i feel like a new woman! It took about a month to 6 weeks for me to feel the difference though. Let me know if you ever need to know any good swaps for foods your missing!
Looks like a great trip–sometimes the trips with no itinerary are the best!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Heather! I’m hoping it helps me too. I really do feel great, but it’s so soon so we will see 🙂
I am actually making some yummy cookies today!!
We didn’t want to do anything too planned and touristy, we really just wanted to walk and hang out with each other. I loved every minute of it!
Tiffany says
Hi Tara!
I saw your post about endometriosis, I have that too! (TMI also). lol I have been desperately trying to find something that will help with the pain, and I had no idea the going gluten free might help. I may give that a try! Also, as far as plans go for January, I have been trying to start my own blog, as I have been following you for years and I love your blog! So that is my January plan is to have my blog up and running live by the end of the month. Yay! Hope all is well, and you have a great first month of 2017! 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Tiffany!
You may want to talk to your doctor first though, that is just something mine recommended for me. Blogging is so fun and very rewarding, even if it’s just for you to read and keep as a diary/journal! I love it so much! xo xo
Have a wonderful 2017! 🙂
Erin says
Hi Tara 🙂 what kind of foundation/face makeup do you use?
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Erin!
I never wear any foundation/face makeup, but I do apply concealer under my eyes. I use a IT Cosmetics! If I’m having a really bad skin day, I’ll wear a little powder from It cosmetics as well. xo xo
Jay says
WOW! Your hair got so long! Are they extensions?
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks! & nope! all my real hair! 🙂
Jenny says
I love your travel photos! It makes me want to go visit DC right now.
Also, about your gluten-free trial: I had similar symptoms and decided to eliminate gluten over the summer and I swear I’ve never felt better. 🙂
Hope you have a happy and healthy New Year!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you Jenny!
I have felt amazing so far, but still so soon 🙂
Hope you have a wonderful New Year! xo
Anna says
Just so you know, your blog motivates me to work out more than anything! Tonight I was not wanting to work out AT ALL then I came home, read your blog, and promptly did a 30 minute workout video. So thank you and please blog more often! (If possible) 🙂
Happy New Year!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Anna!
That is so great 🙂 I love hearing that! 30 minutes is a great workout! That’s all you need to feel great. I will try to blog more often! It’s one of my goals for the New Years!
xo xo
Abbey says
That looks like such a great weekend!! Good for you! Also, your hair looks especially great lately, so thick!
I didn’t watch The Bachelor last night because I don’t really care for Nick. But I’m sure I’llcave and start watching soon. 🙂
Have a great week!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you so much! I haven’t had it this long in forever! I DO need to get a trim soon though.
I don’t care for NICK either, but I need a Monday night show for blog writing! lol I would have cracked sooner or later.
I hope you have a great week as well! xo xo
Caleigh says
AH I literally read this as soon as I saw your insta post. I love your recap blogs, they’re so fun to read. Also, i just saw one of your responses about eating gluten-free. It’s crazy. My mom was diagnosed with arthritis because of her joint discomfort and inflammation and after a year of crazy medication, she went to a holistic nutritionist and she recommended trying to eat gluten-free. It was never arthritis. It’s been over a year and her inflammation greatly decreased and she feels so much better. It’s crazy what a change in your diet can do. Anyways, I’ve heard so many success stories about abstaining from gluten so I hope it helps you.
ALSO I’ve been following your blog since US and I love the changes and everything that you’re about on this blog. Thanks for being such a role model and inspiration to me! 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Caleigh!
So glad you love the recaps becuase they are my favorite to write. That is so great to hear about your mom! Crazy what a diet change can do to you for sure. I’m really hoping it helps and I have a lot of learning to do because it’s in so many foods you would NEVER expect it to be in. I guess eating as whole and healthy as possibly really helps.
Thank you for being a reader so long! MEANS SO MUCH! XO XO
Kat says
That steak looks amazing! I love a medium rare steak also.
My daughter turned 1 on New Year’s Eve and we had a big party for her 🙂 then we celebrated in the evening when she went to bed!
January is going to be really busy and I’m going to try and focus on being healthy and active, the holidays and planning a bday party put a little halt on all of that. I ran on Christmas Day too though, it was so nice out in Dallas also.
Can’t wait for your blog post about your half marathon!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you!!:)
A New Years baby!! How cool 🙂 I bet the holidays were gorgeous in Dallas! 🙂
January is a great time to start being healthy! New year!:)
I can’t wait either! I’m getting excited!
alyssa says
I ran in the New Year at a friends house with about 20+ people. We ate traditional mexican food: Posole, Tamales, Enchiladas, with some wings and pasta. My January plans are to visit the Aquarium of the Pacific, go sledding, and enjoy more coffee.
Do you still use your canon dslr to take some of these photos or are they mostly from your phone?
Taralynn McNitt says
Oh yum!! Sounds delicious! I love your resolutions! 🙂
These are mostly from my phone because of the convenience.
Kristy says
I love reading your DC recap posts! I have family in DC and visit every year and ALWAYS go to Table Talk, it’s been a tradition since I was a kid. I am always on the hunt to find new coffee places when I go, and like you I find it hard to stray away from my favorites (Killer ESP, Mishas, and Baked and Wired) BUT I found such an amazing place called Compass Coffee. Next time you’re in DC you have to make the trek there and try it out! My boyfriend and I always take the Metro so it’s an easy walk from the Gallery Place stop. The lattes are to die for and they have awesome kombucha stocked in the front cooler.
This season of the bachelor definitely looks like a good one. I’m rooting for Vanessa for sure and even though I wasn’t crazy about her at first, I think Raven will end up being pretty funny. I just want Corrine to go home already, hopefully I’m not the only one thinking that….
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Kristy!
Thank you so much 🙂 Have you noticed how crowded it’s gotten lately!?! It used to be easy to get into and now it’s SO PACKED! Good for them though. I am taking note right now. I am going to D.C. with Becca soon and we are going to visit places we’ve never been before.
I know you’re not the only one thinking that………..
Kristy says
Yes! It was so incredibly packed when we went in September. Good for business, bad for people like me who want to take pictures and not look like a creep haha. There’s also a super cool sushi burrito place called Buredo that you definitely need to check out if you haven’t already. I’m planning my next trip back in a couple months and always check your DC trip posts for new places I haven’t been to yet haha.
Taralynn McNitt says
haha yes! I have learned to not care when it comes to taking photos. Beauty of 2017! I will have check that place out and it sounds like it’s right up my brother’s alley. Thanks for the rec and have so much fun in DC!
Madison says
Fibbage is so fun! It’s our go-to party game. The best is when you play with someone that can’t spell.
My New Years resolution was to move toward a more minimalist lifestyle. This week I’m literally donating about 75% of what I own. It’s exciting, and terrifying.
Good work on the training! I’m hoping to start training for a half in June.
P.S. My 2 year old is obsessed with your puppies. If I see a snap with them in it, I have to show him. It’s so sweet.
Taralynn McNitt says
HAHAHA I had to have Kyle spell check everything before I posted because I’M THAT PERSON lol
I have been doing that with my closet and stuff as well! You’ll feel so much better. Did you watch the Netflix doc?
I hope to hear more about your training!
AWWWW I snap them all the time lol. They’re the best pups! xo
Madison says
I didn’t know there was a documentary. That’s what I’ll be watching tonight. Thanks!
Taralynn McNitt says
It’s pretty good!
Lauren says
Can you write about you and Kyle?
Taralynn McNitt says
Well what would you like to know! xo
Vanessa says
Wow, looks like great fun! Watching all teh fireworks from the rooftop must have been stunning!
What did you do for NYE?
I currently live in the UK but was staying with my family in Germany over the holidays. But I spontaneously booked an earlier flight to spend NYE with the man I am dating and some friends back in the UK. Was rather insane but the best decision ever!
Any fun January plans?
I have a few more weeks in the UK which I’ll use to the fullest – between all the exams. Then I’ll have to move back to the Netherlands to go on studying there, so there are some big changes coming up! Also I’ll follow the Yoga Revolution challenge from Yoga with Adriene, I really enjoy her videos 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
It really was gorgeous 🙂 Cold, but fun.
Love how spontaneous you are! What a fun little trip 🙂
Enjoy your time before the move! Thank you for the yoga recommendation! I will do that after my run tonight!
Kelsey says
1. For new years eve we just went over to my parents for a little but then came home around 9 and stayed up until the ball dropped and then went straight to bed hahaha nothing exciting at all.
2. My Jan plans are getting on track with being healthy. I meal prepped breakfast and lunch for work for this week yesterday so I am trying to get everything on track. Also trying to get my home organized and cleaned up by the end of this month. I also bought a yoga mat and yoga socks to start doing some yoga daily!
3. Yes!!! I use to be really annoyed with nick and thought he was a major jerk but I think a lot of people like shawn and josh made him look kinda like the bad guy when he was on the bachelorette. When he was on Bachelor on paradise I seen a different side of him and I have actually grown to like him. I hope he finds love I really do. My favorite right now is Danielle from Nashville and Sarah the teacher and then the special education teacher and the lawyer girl.
Taralynn McNitt says
Haha. I went straight to bed after midnight as well!
Great job meal prepping! That always works 🙂 I am going to start doing yoga three times a week as a goal.
I think you’re right, I may like him by the end of this and I hope I’m proved wrong! I know ABC knows him better than I do! I LOVE Vanessa, the special education teacher and rachel the lawyer!
Anonymous says
Hi! I really like the green jacket you are wearing in your pictures 🙂 Where did you get it?
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Thank you! 🙂 I got it at Old Navy 50% off! woo. They have it in blue right now too!
Kellen says
Hi!
Me and two of my best girl friends are going on a trip to D.C. at the beginning of March! Do you have a post about places we need to see, restaurants we need to check out, etc.? I’ve already taken a few notes from some of your posts but was curious if you had any other insider ideas.
Love love love your blog!!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Kellen!
You guys will have so much fun. If you’ve never been to D.C. before, just have fun jumping on the Metro and exploring! Definitely walk through the Arlington Cemetery and watch the changing of the guards, head to the Lincoln Memorial and walk to the Washington monument through the Grove of trees. Visit some of the museums, white house, and especially the eisenhower executive office building. Walk through Alexandria and Georgetown for the old town feel, visit Columbia Heights, China Town, Dupont, and as many fun neighborhoods as you can! Dinner at Founding Farmers is always cool! If you want quick salads, I love sweet greens! There is so much to see and do in D.C. and you won’t be bored for a minute!
Katie says
Your photos are the reason I visit your blog. Have you ever thought about selling your shots? You have an eye for photography that is so unique.
Taralynn McNitt says
That is such a nice thing to say! Thank you!!
Hannah says
You are Kyle are goals.
Taralynn McNitt says
Aww 🙂 I feel pretty lucky.
Lauren says
That looks like a perfect trip! My boyfriend and I went to Seville in Spain with two other couples for New Year. The weather was great and we had the best time. Seville is such an amazing city.
I have tons of exciting plans in January such as celebrating my boyfriend’s birthday, but I’m also very excited about going to pick out my wedding dress. 😀
I did not watch the bachelor last night, because they don’t show it here anymore. I think they only showed one or two seasons in Belgium. They should start it again!
Taralynn McNitt says
It really was:)
Seville in Spain? What a dream! I bet it was beautiful and so much fun.
All good birthday’s in January *cough* *cough* 😀
Maybe you can get it online!??! It’s a great show! xo xo
Happy New Year!
Ashton Jury says
Loved the recap, and glad you had a great New Years in DC & Alexandria! I have been looking into maybe going to DC in the spring for my birthday, since I have never been. So I’ll definitely have to look through your posts to check out some great places to eat, I will have to go to Kilwin’s for sure because pistachio is one of my all time favs! Also I love that green jacket that you were wearing it looks super comfy and warm, and your hair has gotten so long! Can’t wait to see more recipes here in the new year!
Taralynn McNitt says
Oh you’ll LOVE it so much!
Pistachio is my fave flavor of ALL TIME! & thank you! The green jacket is from Old Navy! It’s so so cozy and warm.
XOXOXO – the hair needs a trim lol
Bay says
Kyle is a cutie!
Taralynn McNitt says
He really is 🙂 i AGREE!
Laura says
I enjoy reading your blog, it always makes me feel so relaxed. I have to ask though, do you have an amazing bladder with all that coffee you drink? LOL I would constantly be taking restroom breaks haha!
Taralynn McNitt says
HAHA I think I’ve trained myself well 😉 xo
Erin @ Brownie Bites says
Sounds like a wonderful trip. 🙂 I love how atmospheric the photos are in this post. Also, you always introduce me to new packaged snacks and juices that I’ve never heard of before – I take notes of the things I want to try!! Happy New Year to you!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you Erin!:) Your blog gives me wonderful ideas as well! xo xo & happy new year!
Patricia says
I’ve been reading your blog for a while and I must say, checking it always makes my day. I love to see how you have evolved through the years. You are truly an inspiration!! I am currently battling with an unhealthy relationship with food and your posts give me hope.
Thank you so much!!
Ps- I study in Annapolis, MD and there’s a Kilwin’s there….. Delicious! I always love the smell of fresh waffle that I get when I pass in fron of it. I’ll have to try the pistchio almond flavor for sure!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you so much Patricia! I understand the struggle, just stay positive and focussed on becoming the best version of yourself. You can do it.
YES TRY THE PA! SO YUMMY:)
Harriet Adlam says
Wow your New Year’s trip looked like so much fun!!.
For New Years I went to a small beach town called coromandel in NZ, and spent most of my time kayaking, hiking and paddle boarding with my family.
For January my only plans are work and more work, hoping to get a weekend off to head to the beach but work is extremely busy.
We don’t get the USA bachelor in NZ anymore. We do our own version which isn’t the best.
I have just started running again after having my endometriosis removed and it’s so good to run 5kms and have no cramp while running or doing crossfit. Quick question what app do you use to track your runs etc?? Mine doesn’t like me any more and won’t work alongside my iTunes .
Hope you have a great week
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Harriet!
Sounds like a fun and adventurous New Years! I would love to see another country’s version of the Bachelor lol. GREAT you’re back to running again! I use RUNKEEPER!! I LOVE IT!
Jamie says
I also power clean before trips! I’m so glad I know someone else does too lol! There’s nothing like that feeling of coming home to a clean house 🙂 I love seeing how happy you are in your relationship. It gives me hope that love and happiness is out there rather than staying in an unhappy relationship for fear that nothing better is out there and hoping that it will eventually get better, even though you know it won’t :/ Funny enough I was watching The Bachelor while reading your recap and I really don’t like Nick. Ben was the best. But I like Vanessa, Danielle L., Sarah, Taylor and Liz – But, I wish he would have given her more opportunity to tell her side. At least she gets another chance.
Taralynn McNitt says
It feels so good to come home to a clean place.
Thank you for the kind words. You cannot stay in an unhealthy relationship! It’ll only drag you down and make you unhappy. There is always someone out there that is more compatible. Kyle is best person to ever come into my life and I am so grateful for him. We have so much fun and it just works. If a relationship is working, you have to be honest with yourself and give yourself advice that you’d give your best friend. Look at it from an outside perspective.
Yes! I agree and I like all of those Plus Rachel!
Myriam says
1) I stayed in with my boyfriend, both in our pajamas (lol), watching TV and eating the delicious dinner he prepared (I’m terrible at cooking). In Spain the tradition is to eat grapes on New Year’s Eve (12 grapes, one for each ring of the clock when it strikes midnight) but I don’t like them and I find it a stupid tradition, so we kissed 12 times instead! 😛 Last year we did the same.
2) No fun plans yet, though I’m waiting to know if one of my novels gets finally published on paper! Wish me luck!
3) Unfortunately I cannot watch that since I live in Barcelona, Spain, but would love to! Is it fun? 🙂
I also wanted to wish you a very happy and successful 2017 and that you accomplish all your plans and dreams! I’m sure you will because you’re a very special person and I really admire you. Wish I was like you! I’ve been struggling against my ED for years and haven’t succeeded in overcoming it completely so far… t’s kind of a chronic thing now. I really envy you (in a healthy way) when I see you doing all that sport and feeling good with yourself. Maybe that could be a 2017 goal!
Take care 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi Myriam!
That sounds like the perfect NYE! Kyle and I would have done the same if we didn’t go to D.C. to see my brother. I know we’ll be doing that this year! I’m totally doing your grape tradition! That is so cute and so fun! lol
AHHHHEEEK SO COOL! Good luck! xo
It’s a pretty juicy show!! Maybe you can find it online somewhere.
Thank you for the very kind words and I wish the best for you as well. Just stay positive and keep working for recovery! Make sure you seek health with close ones and professionals! You are stronger than your E.D. and you know you can beat this!
Jeni says
It’s great that you’ve captured other aspects of D.C. beyond the usual tourist spots. I’m applying to a couple of their medical schools and fell in love with the Georgetown area.
Have you ever considered demonstrating some of the exercises you listed? Your readers might not know what certain moves are (what is a bulgarian squat?), or whether you do some of these lying down, standing up, sitting, or in any other position. I was a physical therapist in my past life and if it taught me anything, it’s that patients and clients very seldom know the names of exercises that they do. It would be so helpful to see a demonstration so we can better do your routines at home 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
You will have so much fun going to school in D.C.!
I have considered it! I will need to figure out the whole “filming” thing, but I don’t think it’ll be too hard! Youtube is a goal for 2017 for me.
xo
Sam says
Hi Taralynn 🙂 i absolutely love reading your recap posts, even if I don’t get to them until a few days later! I get so excited seeing a new post pop up at the top of the page. I do have a question for you if you don’t mind helping me out. My goal for this year is to lead a healthier lifestyle, starting with getting more active. I have a desk job, and find myself watching lots of Netflix or sitting and reading on my down time. I’ve realized there has been days at a time where I haven’t done any activity at all, besides walking from the kitchen to the couch – and I need to change that. I find that my excuse is always that I don’t have time to work out, not because of the time it takes ti actually work out, but because of how I look and feel afterwards. I am a sweaty, red-faced, smelly mess, so I can’t workout unless I am able to go right home and shower afterwards. Plus, I don’t like my natural hair, so I won’t workout unless I have time to shower and straighten my hair after. I noticed in this post you wrote things like you did a quick gym circuit before heading to the mall, or Becca picked you up after your run and you went shopping. How do you do that? Are you just one of those people that doesn’t sweat, or are you just confident enough to do these things no matter how you look (or feel) after the workout?
Thanks so much 🙂
Maxi says
I’m going to have to adapt your idea of power cleaning before going on a trip! I’m traveling almost every 2-3 months this year, so it’ll be great to come home without having to do any cleaning up right away!
It’s funny because I live in the DC/MD area, and am getting so much inspiration on where to eat from you. 🙂 Old Town Alexandria is my favorite place EVER! They have a great gluten-free pizzeria place there, and as an appetizer they bring you some olives (WHICH I LOVE!). So glad to see all of the cool things you do here!
Anonymous says
cute
Kaitlyn @ Powered by Sass says
I live in Old Town, so reading this post was like strolling through my ‘hood. 🙂 It’s the prettiest during the holiday season, isn’t it?
Taralynn McNitt says
Love love love DC!