Good morning! Happy Monday! & Happy Columbus Day! 🙂
I just finished walking the pups, brewed some coffee, and now I’m ready to blog all about my week! This week was a blur. Some of the days went by fast, and some were pretty slow. I was fighting a slight sickness a couple of days out of the week, but I took some much-needed downtime, and luckily it passed. Meighan has today off, so after blogging, I’m heading out for a girl’s day. And then I’m going to spend the night doing more work and watching Dancing With The Stars. This season is filled with great dancers! 
I woke up early on Monday morning to walk the dogs and work before heading out with my Dad. He needed someone to take him to the dealership in Charlotte, so I drove him in. 
Before I headed out, I made a green smoothie. It had spirulina, banana, coconut milk, wheatgrass, ginger, turmeric, lemon, and maca powder. I also made another cup of coffee to take along with me! I still love my to-go cup! If you haven’t checked outErin Condren, you’re totally in for a treat. I spend hours browsing her site! These to-go cups come in a ton of different designs. Everything is just so colorful. 
We ended up spending four hours at the dealership! Wowza. That’s OK though because I love spending time with my dad. When I got home, I walked the dogs, heated up a bowl of my chicken and vegetable soup, and hopped on the couch to watch Dancing with the Stars. The soup is even better the next day. Holy Moly! I’m so happy that I froze a couple of containers because I’m having some for dinner tomorrow night. I was also happy that I had so much soup in the house because I was starting to come down with a sickness. 
The pups and I didn’t make it past ten. I woke up to Leo sound asleep on my stomach, and I had to snap a picture to send to Kyle. We are only slightly obsessed with our dogs. 
Not all of my breakfasts are gorgeously staged, haha! I was not feeling that great on Tuesday morning at all. After picking myself up to walk the dogs, I made a quick breakfast. I cooked up four egg whites and had a cup of cereal with coconut milk. The cereal was a mixture ofPumpkin Puffins’ and Brown Rice Cocoa Crisps.
I sat on the couch for about five hours working. I shut down the computer, walked the dogs and decided just to relax and watch a movie. I knew for sure I would get sicker if I didn’t chill out. I also knew something was wrong with me when I couldn’t finish an afternoon cup of coffee. I ended up blending some Orgain protein powder, frozen blueberries, and water together to coat my stomach. I turned on Netflix and saw that Beauty and the Beast was added. I hadn’t seen the new one yet, and I was excited to watch it. I have a problem with just chilling. I find myself always having to do something. I’ll get up to do laundry, do dishes, walk the dogs, sweep the floor, and so I promised myself I would just lay down and not get off the couch until the movie was over. I just have a horrible problem with sitting still. The only time I can sit still is when I’m working on the computer because I’m too distracted. I’m always go go go. 
But I broke my promise twice because I stopped the movie to walk the dogs around the block and make a salad. 
I chopped up romaine, cucumber, rotisserie chicken, and added it to a big bowl with plain hummus. So delicious. After the movie, I went straight back to the computer to finish working. Oh, andBeauty and the Beast was such a cute movie! 
For a late night dinner, I sauteed butternut squash and zucchini in the cast iron pan. I seasoned it with onion powder, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper. 
I had a Turkey Burger for my protein on the side. 
I was feeling so much better on Wednesday afternoon. I made a salad for dinner and then headed out to play tennis with my parents. My salad had romaine, avocado, broccoli, bell pepper, onion, cucumber, chickpeas, tomatoes, kale, hard boiled egg, chicken, and balsamic vinaigrette. 
It felt good to get out and move after feeling sick.
I had an early dinner at five, so I was hungry after playing tennis. Around eight, I had a cucumber with spicy chipotle hummus. I took the dogs for a late night walk and then headed to bed at nine.
It felt like Fall on Thursday morning. The temperatures were low, and I had to break out the sweater to walk the pups. And I forgot to show you my candle purchases last Sunday! Some of you were asking which ones I bought. Choosing candles at Bath and Body Works is so hard because they all smell so good. I went with Bourbon Sea Salt Caramel (second time buying this one), Hot Cocoa & Cream, and Caramel Pumpkin Swirl! They are heavenly. 
I have a trip coming up later this Fall, so I decided to stop at the mall to look at some sweaters. I ended up getting these jeans and this plum/purple sweater at AE. I am going to do more shopping for my trip today with Meighan. I did find some cute things on Saturday, but more about that later. Around one, I headed out to lunch with my mom! We decided to go somewhere quick, and I hadn’t had Jimmy Johns in SO LONG.
I ordered an unwich. It had turkey, tomatoes, spicy peppers, yellow mustard, and avocado. My mom ordered a sandwich on their 12-grain bread, and it came with cheese, pickles, lettuce, salami, tomatoes, and peppers.
We walked next door to Amelie’s for coffee and tea. They have a seasonal cinnamon tea right now that tastes just like red hots. It’s INCREDIBLE. I’m walking down there later this morning to get some before shopping. My mom called them later in the day (because she was super obsessed with the tea), and asked them which brand it was. The tea is Harney & Son’s Hot Cinnamon! It was almost like a dessert, and she added a little honey to it. I can’t tell you enough how good it was. I ordered their medium roast black coffee, and that was just as good! 
The Rock Hill Amelie’s location is my favorite. They turned an old bank into the coffee shop and it’s filled with character.
After dropping my mom back off at her office, I headed out for a little walk. It was so gorgeous out, and walking with coffee is my favorite this time of year. I took some photos along the way! Hopefully, they put you in the Fall spirit. Yesterday Kyle said the cutest thing. We were out walking the dogs early in the morning, and he said, “I never liked Fall until I met you.” I don’t know why but it really made me smile.
I can’t wait until the end of October/early November with the trees are at their peek change. You better believe I’ll be taking an abundance amount of photos. 
I headed back home to work some more. I had this blueberry Silk yogurt, and it was so good! I froze it for a couple of hours and then let it sit for twenty minutes. It was creamy and had an ice cream texture.
For dinner, I made a delicious salad. It had bell peppers, broccoli, sprouts, tomatoes, kale, onion, cucumber, chickpeas, roasted chicken, and a balsamic vinaigrette on top. I made the dressing with olive oil, honey, and balsamic. The worst part about this salad was finishing it. I just wanted it all over again. 
To kill the late night sweet tooth, I had a hot cup of tea. Tea has been my savior the past few weeks. I’ve cut out that late night dessert/sugary cravings with tea. I am so excited for my red hot cinnamon tea to get here! I ordered four cases.
I was in for a busy day on Friday! I woke up at five to walk the dogs, blog and have breakfast. I had avocado, sweet potatoes, and egg whites. 
While I was out running errands and getting things ready for the garage sale, I picked up some Ginger Teriyaki chicken jerky bites. I was pretty impressed with these! I had been seeing people posting about them all over the internet, and they were pretty great. 
My neighborhood was having a giant community yard sale. I had boxes on boxes of clothes that I wanted and needed to get rid of. My parents had bins of clothes in their attic of mine as well. I decided to join in on the community yard sale and get rid of a ton of things. Whatever I didn’t sell, I’d drop off at Red Cross! I am going to be writing a blog post on how to have the perfect yard sale. My mom used to have them all the time growing up, and I used to LOVE helping her. It brought back a lot of memories. I was up until midnight getting everything set up. 
While I was out, I stopped at Michaels. They had a 60% of ALL FALL decor sale. I picked up a couple of pieces for my mantel. I loved adding the warmth to my house. I can’t wait until it’s cold and I can turn on the fireplace 🙂 
I am incredibly excited for Christmas already. Don’t worry! I’m not going to start posting Christmas recipes or decorating until December. Last year, I was too busy from buying my house. I didn’t have the chance to really enjoy all the Christmas baking and decorating. I’m going ALL out this year. When I was in an apartment, I had nowhere to store my decor, so I barely bought any. This year, I have a huge attic and garage to store it all in. I’m already planning my mantel decor, yard decor, and more. It’s bad. 
After getting just about everything ready for the sale, I headed to the kitchen late in the evening and made a quick dinner. I was so hungry! I cooked up chicken, bell peppers, and butternut squash in the cast Iron. I added spicy Szechuan sauce! That simple and it was so delicious. Kyle and I turned on Dateline and relaxed. 
Up at 5 am to finish setting up and open shop at 7! My mom ended up bringing all of her shoes over that she didn’t wear anymore to set out. Some lady came and bought every single pair! I was pretty impressed. I was hungry later in the morning, so I had a bowl of pumpkin spiced cheerios with coconut milk 🙂 
It was raining out, so I pulled everything into the garage, but the turn out was still impressive. I finished up around noon, and then loaded up everything that didn’t sell, and took it to Red Cross. It felt SO GOOD to get rid of everything. I still have so much more to go through and toss. I’m also excited to write the yard sale post. I had a lot of fun. 
For lunch, I had a romaine cup filled with leftovers from the night before. 
I made a smoothie as well. It had spirulina, wheat grass, matcha tea, coconut milk, protein powder, and banana. 
Even though I was so tired, I couldn’t sit still. I was heading to the mall with Meighan around two, and I knew I’d fall asleep if I sat down. I decided to make a recipe for the blog this week.
I will have this ready for a Wednesday blog! It was so good. Kyle was so obsessed. This pumpkin apple crisp was gone in literally two days. It’s dairy free, gluten free, oil free, nut free, soy free, and no sugar added!
Meighan and I had original plans to walk the Riverwalk, but it was pouring out. We decided to walk the mall instead. I picked up some much-needed coffee before we started shopping. 
I ended up buying this top in four different colors. It looks way better in person, but I loved the thick material. I love that you can dress it up with a skirt and a statement necklace, or wear it casual with jeans. I didn’t like the ruffle trend at first, but now I’m hopping on the bandwagon. I’ve been trying to transition my closet into basic pieces that can all be thrown together. I love that Express has a lot of solid colored tops. I feel like I’m at that awkard stage where I’m having a hard time re-learning how to dress. I’m not a skinny little twenty-year old anymore and I’m trying to keep that in mind. Dressing your body in your late twenties can be hard, especially if your body is going through changes. Anyone else feel this way? Anyways. This top is called theTextured Short Bell Sleeve top, and it’s on sale for $23.00! It was originally $39.00 🙂 I also bought a black ruffle front mesh yoke top, but they had to ship it to my house because they didn’t have any in my size at the store. I fell in love with the top, so I’ll show you how it looks on when it gets here! It should be here Wednesday. 
And I was shocked at some of the items I found at H&M. They had so many fun basic tops and gingham (my favorite!) I also like their new line of body-shaping jeans. The quality has improved so much. I bought the white sweater, the jeans, and an adorable new coat.
I fell in love as soon as I put this coat on. It was so smooth and soft. It wasn’t one of those scratchy wool-blend coats. I loved the collar on it, and the way it fit. If they had it in more colors in the store, I would have bought them all. This Wool-blend coat is from H&M! I’ll get more photos in this coat soon. I’m heading to a different H&M store today, and I’m excited to see if they have the blue and pink ones in stock. I will literally buy them all because that’s how obsessed I am with this coat. I didn’t plan on buying anything when I headed to the mall, but it turned out to be a successful trip. I find that when I’m looking for something in particular, I NEVER find it. When I’m just browsing, I find everything. I guarantee today will be unsuccessful. 
For dinner, I had eggs, teriyaki green beans, and chicken! Easy and tasty! 
We finally got a break in the rain, so Kyle and I headed out to play tennis Saturday evening. 
We played late into the evening and then headed back to my place to walk the dogs. I was so tired from my four hours of sleep and long day. I took a shower, popped popcorn for our movie, and then fell asleep fifteen minutes later on the couch. 
Found this snap from Kyle. 😀
I slept over ten hours on Saturday night and it was much needed. After the dog walk, I had six scrambled egg whites and celery with hummus for a late breakfast.
Kyle and I headed to the gym around one on Sunday. I ran three miles and then stretched it out in the yoga room. 
I was proud of myself for pushing through the struggle. It’s crazy how hard it is to get back into running after a hiatus. I’m only running three miles twice a week lately, but I plan on increasing the mileage soon. 
After the gym, I had a post-run shake. It had acai powder, half a banana, turmeric, ginger, wanter, and vanilla protein powder. How gorgeous is that color?
After our post-workout fuel, we headed to the courts to play tennis. It was muggy and disgusting outside.
I headed home to shower off and pack my stuff for Kyle’s place on Sunday evening. We decided to go the easy route for dinner. We picked up Chopt salads! I had some work to do so I was happy we decided not to cook. We don’t dine out often, so it was much deserved. My salad had kale, romaine, tomatoes, chickpeas, cucumber, butternut squash, avocado, egg white, double chicken, and hot honey vinaigrette on the side. I was pretty intrigued by this carrot spice Kombucha, so I decided to give it a try. It literally tasted like carrot cake. I will probably end up getting it again today! It was a nice little treat. I ended up eating half of my salad around six and finished the rest at eight. It was so good! 
I made coffee at seven, and got straight to blogging! Some people wonder how I can have coffee and then fall asleep. I have no idea, but it calms me. I slept like a baby last night! Oh, and Kyle and I watched Geralds Project on Netflix last night. It was really good but incredibly creepy.
Questions for you!
- Have you ever had to “re-learn” how to dress?
- What seasonal product do you love lately? (I love the hot cinnamon tea & carrot spice kombucha)
- Do you ever have a hard time just “being” or “relaxing” without distracting yourself?
Hope you guys have a good week! 🙂
STAY TUNED BECAUSE THE WINNERS OF THE COFFEE GIVEAWAY WILL BE ANNOUNCED TOMORROW!!!!
Thanks for sharing Taralynn! I always look forward to seeing your newest posts!
Thanks, Tori!
Loving the fall vibes in this post!
I always have a hard time relaxing. When I’m alone, my mind runs wild!
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Thanks, Charmaine!!
I think we are a lot alike, many of us are! Our minds are just go go go, just like us! xo
I wonder what they do with all of their old candles? I’m wondering if they reuse the scents and add a new label lol
Lol maybe! That would be great if they did! Less waste 🙂
I’ve had to learn how to redress lately and you’re blog has definitely helped! My body is going through some weird changes right now, I’ve started becoming much more active so my body is changing and my clothes haven’t been fitting. It can be so hard to learn how to dress yourself again.
P.S. I’m so excited about your giveaway! Fingers crossed!
I just went through that as well! I actually lost a bit of weight when I cut back on all of the HIIT workouts and I think it’s because ALL bodies are different. When I workout that hard my stress/cortisol levels sky-rocket, which cause weight gain. I was getting very frustrated. Now, I am very active, but more walking/lighter HIIT workouts 🙂
How do you know you lost weight? You inspired all of us to throw away our scales… as you did
My clothes fit better. I was having a hard time squeezing into my jeans/shirts while working out so hard.
How do you know you lost weight after cutting back on HIIT? You inspired all of us to throw away our scales… as you did
I go by how my clothing feels. I noticed my jeans were fitting me once again. When I started going HIIT ALL THE TIME, I honestly was so snug in my shorts that I felt like I was going to burst. I don’t know if it was weight/water weight/inflammation, or what but I can definitely fit my clothes again, so I’m going by that.
I’ve had to learn how to redress lately and it’s been so hard! I’ve become more active so my body is changing.
P.S. I’m so excited about your giveaway! Fingers crossed.
Body changes can be frustrating for the clothing department!
Yes I can totally relate on learning to dress again for your late twenties body ! I am there right now .
And I also have a hard time sitting still. I’m always cleaning up something in the house, making a to-do list or looking something up online !
Definitely frustrating. For me, anyways
I love everything you bought! I’m going through the re-dressing state right now! What are your favorite stores?
JCREW! H&M! GAP! LOFT! TARGET! ANN TAYLOR! & some random stores here and there! I’m VERY basic lol
I’m 25 now and starting to learn how to dress more my age. It’s hard though because clothes are expensive and I’m behind so much from getting hit my Hurricane Irma. But I go to thrift stores and try to find things that are more age appropriate. Guilty.. but I’m hooked on the Pumpkin Spiced Latte from Starbucks… I’ve only had 2 so far though! But $5.30 for one is outrageous!
As for relaxing, I’m too good at it, I really need to be more productive with my free time.
Hi, Jenna!
So sorry to hear about Irma and the effect it had 🙁 Thrift store finds are always fun and you can find some amazing things there. Nothing guilty about it!:) It’s so good! Yes, they are expensive!!!
I’ve definitely had to relearn how to dress as an adult. In college I only wore casual clothes but I’m in law school now, so my rule is not to buy anything unless I can wear it in a professional setting. No more miniskirts! I’ve also had to go through my body changing and getting curvier, which was hard to accept at first, but I gave away my “skinny” clothes and never looked back!
Hi, Nicole!
I feel ya! I sold/donated all of my skinny clothes. If it was a zero/two, bye! I don’t know why I held onto them for so long. Well, maybe I know why…the hopes of fitting into them again. But I know that’s not realistic. Congrats on law school! That is amazing. You’re amazing!
Have you ever had to “re-learn” how to dress?
A couple times during the course of growing up. It took me a long while to learn that it is much better to dress according to how I feel and what looks good on me than trying to imitate someone.
What seasonal product do you love lately? (I love the hot cinnamon tea & carrot spice kombucha)
I am really into pumpkin! There even is one baking in the oven right now 🙂
Do you ever have a hard time just “being” or “relaxing” without distracting yourself?
Yes that is so tough! I keep doing random stuff, playing with my phone or whatever.
You’re so right about that! When I try to dress like someone else, it never looks good lol
Nothing better than pumpkin right now! Are you just baking it plain?
Me too!
How many meals do you typically eat a day (including snacks)?
I don’t have any set meal plan. I just eat when I’m hungry.
This may sound crazy. Have you ever been checked for ADHD? Not being able to sit still, or the fact that coffee “relaxes” you are signs of it. I’m coming at a good place because I was diagnosed with ADHD. You sound a lot like me.
Not crazy at all. It’s definitely something I’ve considered and pondered. It would explain a lot about myself. Would be worth getting looked into!
1. I’m on a bit of a weight loss/healthy lifestyle journey right now and am down 30 lbs which looks like A LOT on my frame and I’m having to completely relearn how to dress. I’ve spent a lot of years hiding behind layers and cardigans and as much clothing as possible which is now overwhelming me so I’m learning how to dress to embrace all my curves! It’s a fun and scary adventure, lol!
2. I haven’t been able to find the pumpkin spice Cheerios up in here in Canada that I’ve been DYING to try but I got my hands on some maple Cheerios that I’m currently obsessed with!
3. I have a very hard time with this. I sometimes need to sit on my couch and put all my technology in another room with the door closed just so I can watch a movie with no distractions! I am a police dispatcher and have been for 7 years so my multitasking skills are out of the his world, so I sometimes have to remind myself to just sit and completely relax and concentrate on one thing and chill out, lol.
Congrats on your weight loss, Amanda!
I know exactly how you feel. I’ve been there and go up and down a lot, so I’m constantly trying to find my place in the wardrobe department. It can be fun if you’re optimistic about it 😀
AMAZON! or online!
Your job is a tough one for sure! I can see why it would be hard to close off from the things around you!
I have an impossible time sitting still. Sitting at a desk all day doesn’t help either! Right now I’m pretty much all about anything caramel apple flavored but I’m really jealous of your candles. They look like they smell amazing.
That coat from H&M looks so warm!
Glad I’m not the only one!
ohhhhh I have a fun caramel apple recipe coming to the blog soon!!
That is so funny, because I was just telling Landon I feel like I am in that stage too. I am only 22 (que Taylor Swift haha) but since I am a semi-new mom, I feel like most of my clothes are either not functional for chasing a 1 year old around or remind me of my high school years. No thank you. I am currently obsessed with ROOLEE and am putting together a capsule wardrobe from their online boutique! My goal is to have about 25 pieces or so (not including running clothes!) that I am obsessed with and that all work together so I can have multiple outfits/looks.
I also have a hard time relaxing, especially when I am trying to relax during the day.
You are incredibly mature and put together for 22. When I was 22, I was a mess. I still think I’m a mess some days lol I love the idea of getting basic outfits that all go together! That is the best way to do it!
I’m that way too, and even after a long run, I have so much energy to go go go!!
All of your smoothies look so gorgeous. Especially that purple one!
I’m a nanny and at one of my jobs they have a cupboard filled with tea. I tried a cinnamon spiced one the other day. IT WAS SO FREAKING GOOD! I usually just stick to green tea but I’m already excited to drink more tomorrow 🙂
http://www.justbeingbrooklyn.com
Thanks, Brooklyn!
Ahhh being a nanny is so much fun! I did that for several years 🙂 & cinnamon tea is EVERYTHING right now!
😀
1. UGH yes. I STILL feel like I am in that phase right now. I pretty much LIVED in sweatpants // gym shorts and t-shirts in HS and college, and STILL love to rock out the casual look on the weekends. BUT, my work is business casual, and I do feel a little too old to always be wearing tshirts, so I’m trying to find a middle ground since 5 days a week I have to dress for work. It’s tough for sure.
2. I have a “Fall Leaves” scented candle that smells nothing like ACTUAL fall leaves, but that I love anyways. I love everything pumpkin spice flavored, so I love all the recipes that pop up and all the fun products!
3. I’m great at relaxing, I relax better than anyone I know. Haha. I have no problem vegging out to some Netflix without doing ANYTHING else, except maybe getting up for a drink. Or bathroom break. Wish I had some tips for you, but the truth is, my inner self is actually just SUPER lazy. So, it’s easy peasy for me.
Also, fingers crossed over here I win!!!
I feel ya girl! I LIVE in sweats/shorts/tops.
I think I smelled the leaves candles at B&BW! Home goods has some good fall candles and pumpkin spice products!
I need to be more like you!!! lol
1. Yes! I am so glad you mentioned learning how to redress. After recovering from my eating disorder, all I knew how to wear were the tiny jeans and tops I used to fit into. Not going to lie, it was a little depressing learning how to dress differently than when I weighed far to little, but now I love finding clothes that fit me well (and I am much more confident if my clothes are MY size). Honestly, I kind of have a different style going on every day, depending on my mood.
2. Since Autumn has hit, I have been really into my Chamomile tea! Coffee in the morning, tea in the afternoon is my go-to right now.
3. For some reason, I cannot just sit and watch a movie. I think it is so relaxing to fold laundry while I am watching something, I know that sounds off but it is my favorite!
Hi, Amanda!
I change up my style all the time too. That is why I’m trying to reconstruct my closet. I know how it is to go through the transition of post-ED changes, but IT DOES get easier. I love that you’re feeling more confident. That makes me happy to hear.
I’ve been doing the same tea & coffee!
I used to love doing laundry while watching movies!
Have you ever had to “re-learn” how to dress? Yes!! I started med school and had to go out and buy all of these pairs of professional pants and solid tops. No more crazy patterned leggings every day 😛 Your post makes me want to go to H and M and get some cozy sweaters though.
What seasonal product do you love lately? Trader Joes everything! They have squash mac and cheese and pumpkin biscotti that are amazing!
Do you ever have a hard time just “being” or “relaxing” without distracting yourself? All the time…i have trouble relaxing without feeling guilty that i should be studying instead!
If you’re going to get some cozy sweaters, definitely do H&M!
I need to go into TJ soon!!
I think with us being filled with entertainment & fomo, it’s hard for us to just be!
I’m learning it right now! I’m very tired of my clothes and trying to be a little more streamlined. I buy way too much. I’ve been getting rid of a lot lately and only have a bit more to go.
Mann’s crinkle cut butternut squash. I toss with a little cornmeal and roast and they are the best french fries swap.
It takes a lot not to always be on the go. I started mediation with the insight timer app. At first I could only do about 5 minutes and now I’m up to 20. It really helps me focus during my day, not just during the practice. I do the guided ones.
Me too, girl!
OK, that sound so good!!!!
I may have to look into that app!
I can always fall asleep after having coffee as well! I’m glad I’m not the only one!
*I have had to “re-learn” how to dress at least a few times! Unfortunately for me sometimes it is in regards to my weight gain or weight loss as well as aging. It is hard to explain but definitely something I think every woman can relate to.
*Not so much a seasonal product, but I just found the Reeses Peanut Butter Cup coffee creamer at Walmart this weekend, and I’m slightly obsessed right now.
*Being distracted is in my nature. I can’t just sit and watch tv, I have to do something like knit, color, paint, something! It is hard to sit still and relax, especially when there are not enough hours in the day and so much to get done!
Oh! I have my ingredients for the zucchini bread and plan on making it tonight! Yay! 🙂
Hi, Kyla!!
Crazy for sure, but I just had a cappuccino an hour ago and I’m ready for bed already.
YOU FOUND WHAT?!!??!….Does it actually taste like Reeses PB cups????
You sound just like me!
LET ME KNOW HOW YOU LIKE THE ZUCCHINI BREAD!
Your salads always look so amazing! Even when I am hitting fall mode and wanting warmth, they are so bright and welcoming.
Re-learning how to dress yourself is so hard. I went from a very stylish office to a very conservative one. It is hard to switch from competing with your co-workers for a polished, modern look to trying not to stand out too much. I started renting clothes with a purchase option because I kept buying clothes that I would wear once and hate. It has been so hard to trade my platforms for pumps and up my cardigan game.
Soup. The minute the weather gets a bit of a chill to it, I want any kind of soup I can find. I love throwing a bunch of things in my crockpot and coming home to a house that just smells like home.
I would recommend taking up a needlecraft like knitting or cross-stitch. I learned how to crochet for this. I can sit and watch a movie and end with a scarf. It is really relaxing and (once you learn) mindless. It helps me lose the guilt because I end up with something to show for my time.
Hi, Sarah!
Thank you so much! I’m pretty sure I can eat salads all year round, even on Christmas! 🙂
See, I’d be the opposite. I’m VERY conservative when it comes to dressing up (only because I want to cover as much as I can lol) and I love dressing like that, but doing anything more fashionista is hard for me! I also can’t wear heels lol Renting clothes is a great idea! If I had to go into the office, I totally would do that! Rent The Runway is awesome for that!
Ohhhhh me too! I’m so excited to heat my soup up tomorrow night!
That may be a good idea! It looks SO HARD though! lol
I’m so glad you pointed this out. I find myself in tears and wondering how I got here. I workout and eat the same, but my body has been changing the past two years. I’m having a hard time dressing my figure and choosing the right clothes. I thought it was just me! Could you write more on this? I think it would help so many.
Sometimes it’s all about hormones and your body doing its thing! I workout so much and eat healthy but I’ll never be naturally skinny. Genetics play a huge role too. Embracing our body for what it is will be the best way to live. And it’s totally easier said than done. I think that would be a great idea for a post.
WHAT is Columbus day? We’re celebrating Thanksgiving here in Canada!
I am loving anything chai, spice, cloves, and pumpkin spice. And oh–cinnamon!
Hahaha! Happy Thanksgiving!
Columbus Day is for Christopher Columbus! It’s the day Christopher Columbus landed in the “new world.”AKA AMERICA!
I’m loving all of those too! Have a great holiday!
I am trying to learn to re-dress myself right now! I just turned 27 a few months ago and my style seems to have changed so much and now I find it harder to find new pieces. I find my self reaching for the same pieces in my closet too much. If you figure out the secret please let me know!
Hi, Candice!
I feel the same. I have decided to just stick to one look and go for ALL the basics. I tend to wear those the most and I love that you can just join all of them together. I also learned that if I love ONE thing, buy it in EVERY COLOR! lol
Your fireplace looks absolutely darling. I do the same when it comes to Christmas and decorating. I’m already excited to see your mantel! Where do you get your Christmas decor?
Thanks, girl! I really LOVE Hobby Lobby & mostly because everything is 50% off!
I tried that coat on the other day at H&M! I was obsessed with it too! I wish they made it in white.
That would be amazing if they did!
I like you perspective when taking photo’s. And your meals are looking great.
Thanks, Hena!
First off, Harney&Sons- I have been obsessed with the cinnamon spice for over 5 years now. SO. GOOD. All their teas are really good and the tins they come in are adorable. I drill holes in the bottom and then fasten the lid to the bottom to catch any water, fill them with dirt, and plant herbs in there for inside the house!
Well, you shouldn’t have kept it a secret this long! Shame on you! lol kidding, but seriously so good! That is such a great idea for planting herbs! xo
Good job on your run. Even though you took time off, your time was impressive!
Thanks!! 😀
I don’t know if it’s your love for coffee, photos, or the inspiration you deliver with your posts, but they’re such a treat to read ❤ Thank you for being you!
Awwwww thank you, Sarenah!! That put a smile on my face!!
Your blog is always my happy, motivating break during the day! Thanks for sharing your H&M finds. Also, I need to get on the bandwagon of buying multiples of something I love. I have regretted it with a handful of items in my closet as they slowly deteriorate from washing/wear over the years.
Thank you, Chantelle! That makes me happy 😀
I have had great success with the multiple strategy!
Just want to say that I love your blog and this post! I recently discovered Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Waffles and Pumpkin Spice Almond Beverage! The waffles are frozen, but when you cook them they perfume your kitchen with the scent of pumpkin spice! And the pumpkin spice almond milk is thick and creamy, I recommend drinking it warm with a little bit of whip cream!
Thank you!!!!
Ok. I need to make a trip to TJS LIKE ASAP!!! All of this pumpkin flavored stuff is giving me fomo.
I have been going through that the last couple of years since I got into my current job…
I have to wear a uniform, and so I don’t have a whole lot of choice when it comes to what I wear on the daily (except my socks, and you better believe I have some fun black-based socks to make things interesting 😉 haha!)
I think the hardest thing about that the last couple of years is that as my body is changing because of eating better, exercising, and then going through days where I am bloated and feel gross, I feel like my “cute” clothes fit differently EVERY time I put them on. So I hate the idea of getting rid of some things I know I used to love, but didn’t the last time I put them on. It’s a pickle.
I LOVE the Oikos pumpkin pie flavored yogurt right now — it may not be the most “natural” option for yogurts on the store shelf, but I GUARANTEE you it tastes JUST like pumpkin pie! It’s crazy! Even my (frugal) boyfriend has switched from the pints of yogurt that are a little cheaper to the single serve Oikos because they are just THAT GOOD.
I also really love a good glass of Leinenkugel Pumpkin Patch Shandy. It’s so tasty! I wouldn’t want more than one glass, but I love it in the Fall!
I thought I was alone in not being able to just SIT and BE… Every time I have the TV on I have to be working on something else at the same time! That’s when I do a lot of my crocheting/knitting/crafting for gifts! I think it makes a good system 😉 It convinces me I am accomplishing a lot while simultaneously getting to watch a favorite tv show!
(Super staying tuned for the coffee giveaway results!)
Hi, Hannah!!
I think having a uniform would totally make it easier lol You don’t have to plan out outfits lol
You and I are definitely going through the same things and all of those thoughts go through my mind too! I hate the bloated days!! ll
I haven’t had any pumpkin spiced yogurt yet!! I need to find some!! I think I need to start knitting. Seems like that’s a great way to just chill while doing something.
x xo xo xo
Your running time was great. Are you doing any races?
EEEEEH I don’t think so! lol
Hey Taralynn! In the next year I’ll be moving to Charlotte, what are the best areas to look for a place to rent at?
Thanks!!!
Hi, Erica!
Charlotte is VERY widespread. Do you know where you’ll be working?
Major Fall vibes! I’m obsessed with your living room decor, and you did an awesome job on the mantle! I’m also craving a salad now, but I guess thats a good thing ;p
Katie | http://www.meshkomoments.com
Thank you, Katie!!
I just go for cozy! & I’m thinking salads all week long. I’m already two for two!
It sucks to re-dress yourself. Stop getting fat.
Thanks for the laugh today! xo
I totally feel your vibes on relearning how to dress yourself. I’m 22 and have filled out in a good way! I’m not overweight at all but instead of a size 2 like I was when I was younger I’m now a size 6! I’m slowly filling my closet with pieces that fit well and are not too small. I’ve realized I feel way better about myself not that I have all new pants that fit me correctly and I’ve come to accept that I’m just built like a woman now and not a young girl! Also, you are super healthy with what you eat and how much you exercise so any weight gain is definitely natural and I wouldn’t worry about it!
Our bodies definitely do that in our twenties!
I don’t worry about the weight gain at all. I know it’s my body doing its thing and there really is nothing I can do about it. I think accepting it can be tough when it comes to clothes and bad self-esteem days, but there’s more to life 🙂
I’m in the same boat as you with learning how to dress myself again. Being in your mid twenties is kind of an awkward stage for clothes-I feel too old to shop in ‘juniors’ departments or stores, but sometimes ‘misses’ feels to old? It’s hard to find a good balance sometimes.
My favorite seasonal thing right now is pumpkin spice lattes with almond milk! So good! That tea sounds good, I love Harney and sons. Their tropical green tea is my favorite, it has a pineapple taste.
I have a hard time relaxing if I feel like my apartment is messy, I can’t relax if there’s stuff all over the place, I need to clean it first haha
Hi, Meghan!
I totally feel ya! They need to have an “awkward 20’s” category lol
I want to try all of Harney & sons now!!
Oh…I have to clean EVERYTHING before I can do anything.
I love fall candles this time of year. Sometimes when the wick is burnt down but I still have wax, I’ll put some water in a pot and put the candle in and boil the water to melt the wax. Strain the hot wax thru a paper towel into a votive holder and you’ve got a new candle! Plus it gets rid of the gross carbon that settles in the bottom of the jar. Craft stores sell the wicks.
Wow!! That is so somart!
I LOVE yard sales! They are so much fun! Also, love that jacket from H&M. I’m totally gonna go pick that up for fall! 🙂
You’ll fall in love when you try it on!
Do you have a playlist for running? On spotify so I can follow?? 🙂
I don’t, but right now I’m listening to Starboy album by Weeknd & Luke Combs new album! Such a random duo, but it’s a nice mix!
Which coffee do you drink at Starbucks?
Pike Place medium roast! It’s the only one of theirs that I like black.
I agree about DWTS this season! I love them all.
Who are you rooting for!
Wow, what a fun-filled post! I love the pumpkin and cinnamon smells of fall. Even though I’m not crazy about eating fall-inspired baked goods, I am thrilled to be able to smell them in the bakeries and stores. 😀 I love how you incorporate walking in your healthy routine. It’s personally my favorite exercise.
Thanks, Nicole!!
I can totally see that!:) They do smell heavenly! Walking is my all-time favorite!
That coat from H&M is super soft! I tried it on in pink at the mall!
It really is!
I love this post. The quote from Kyle about fall made me tear up. What a sweet and loving thing to say!! I am so impressed by your will power to replace sweets at night with tea. I have tried that but every time I sit down with my tea I think wow a dessert would go so well with this. Hahahah. Maybe I haven’t found the right one.
Awww, thanks, Zey.
Kyle is the sweetest and I just love his heart.
This tea literally tastes like dessert so it makes it so much easier 😀
I wouldn’t say that about any other tea! lol
I’m definitely going to try it! 🙂
I love your style!
Thanks, Theresa!!
Oh my gosh, what you said about learning to re-dress is SO TRUE! Especially in your late 20’s! I literally weigh the same as I did in high school, but my body does NOT have the same shape. On top of that, I’m trying to learn how to dress like a professional adult, while still only really wanting to wear jeans and a tee haha. It’s hard!! You H&M finds had me getting all the autumn clothing feels though.
Currently loving Dandies Pumpkin Spice marshmallows (they’re delicious vegan mallows!). I pretend that I buy them to put in things… But I really just eat them out of the bag. Whoops!
I’m just like you, I literally can’t even sit through an entire movie. I’ll have something playing, and then be working on another device at the same time haha. It’s a little ridiculous. That’s why yoga is good for me. It forces me to chill out for an hour!
Ps. What Kyle said to you about fall… THE CUTEST.
It’s crazy how our bodies make changes when it comes to shapes! But if you read up on it, we shift! We get curvier. I’m still waiting for the upper part of my body to catch up hahahaha
I need to check out the pumpkin spice ones! I love that brand. I bet whole foods has them!
Kyle is a doll!:) I love him to pieces.
Great recap!! Loving all your fall photos. I love buying solid colour tops to dress up with scarfs and necklaces etc. I had to re learn how to dress again when I lost 25kgs, no more baggy clothes to hide my shape. The only problem with still losing weight I am finding I have to buy new clothes every few months. So the Red Cross are getting lots of donations. Homemade berry ice tea is my favourite at the moment with the weather heating up for summer it’s so good! It’s really hard to relax after a long day of work but I find a walk with the dogs is the most relaxing the fresh air helps as well, I can’t sit and do nothing. Have a great week!!
Thank you, Harriet!!
Yes, redressing yourself can be hard. But, yet! On a positive, you can donate those clothes! 😀 ThredUp is great for finding new clothes during fitness journies.
xo xo have a wonderful week!
Always always always love your re-caps! I definitely need to shop for some Fall staple pieces. Love that coat the most!!
Hey! I have been reading your posts for going on…about 4-5 years (what?! where does the time go) and I alwayyyyys love the fall/winter/holiday posts. I just told my husband that every time I read your posts I want to go buy allllll the cozy things. I completely agree about trying to dress in your late twenties. I just turned 27 and am caught between “you’re not getting younger so where the fun stuff now” and “hey, you’re 27, dress a little more professional” hahah. I also love all the coffee shots you post, I am obsessed with coffee too and am always looking for new cute mugs to take pictures with. My newest favorite seasonal product is the Pumpkin Pie halo top, mmm.
Hi, Cait!
That is a long time!! I’ve been writing for 7 1/2 years now and it feels like one!
I am totally feeling that way too!
And thank you!:) I love all things coffee and photography!!! I havent had the new pumpkin Halo top!!
Hi Taralynn,
I grew up in Charlotte but have been in Hawaii the past 4 years. This summer I plan on moving back and I’m trying to figure out where in that big city. I notice that you seem to be able to walk to a lot of places you go to and that’s something I really want when I head back over to the mainland. If you don’t mind me asking, what area of Charlotte are you in?
Love reading your blog, I’ve been living off your flat out pizzas this past week as I try to ease myself back into eating healthier. (:
It really depends on where you’re wanting to work because traffic can be a pain sometimes! I think living uptown is great and they have SO MANY new spots being built right now. The fourth ward and southend are both great!
Those flat out pizzas are so good!
Hey! I was just wondering what brand your couch was. I love the design in the fabric!
It’s from Value City Furniture. Unfortunately, they don’t make the couch anymore! 🙁
Would you mind sharing what size you got in the H&M coat?! My local store doesn’t have it and struggling trying to decide what size to order. It’s so cute! Thank you!
I ordered the four!