Good Morning!
It’s a little strange having my recap post on a Wednesday but last week was a little hectic. Hectic, but in a good way. I finally got around to throwing everything together, and now I’m excited to have coffee and blog all about what I’ve been up to! Time always flies by quickly when you don’t want it to. That’s how I felt about this week.
Meighan had Monday off, so after finishing up last week’s recap post, we headed out for a girl’s day at the mall. I pretty much fell in love with this dress. I’m still torn on which color to buy it in. It’s the Show Me Your Mumu Rebecca Off The Shoulder Chiffon Gown. I don’t even know where I’d wear it to, but I just love it. 
We ended up trying on so many dresses and outfits. It felt like a workout! I loved these too! I’m glad I didn’t get them though because I found them online 40% off. Win! When they get here, I’ll post links if you’re interested.
After shopping and walking around the mall for hours, we stopped for an afternoon snack at Starbucks. I had a black coffee, Country Archer turkey jerky, and a That’s It bar. Have you guys ever had the Country Archer turkey jerky? It’s now officially on the top of my list. The That’s It bars have always been a favorite of mine because it’s literally just fruit and nothing more! The strawberry and apple one is one of my new favorite flavors. I tried it for the first time at the airport over the weekend. The blueberry apple is really good too. 
On our way back, I stopped at Chopt to pick up my favorite salad to bring home for dinner. My salad had grilled chicken, chickpeas, cucumber, romaine, chopped kale, butternut squash, tomatoes, avocado, egg whites, and a hot honey vinaigrette for the side. I also had a hibiscus tea to go. I could eat Chopt for every meal every day for the rest of my life and never get sick of it. 
On Monday evening, I walked with Kyle to the barbershop so he could get his haircut. While he was in the chair, I walked over to Coco & The Director to grab a soymilk latte. I genuinely love the taste of soymilk, and I think it’s because of the thick and creamy texture. It’s a lot like oat milk. Coco & The Director is one of my favorite spots in Uptown. They have so much space for working, and the interior is cool. I’m impressed with all the new places coming to Charlotte. I’ll have so much more to add to the list, although, Kyle and I don’t dine out at restaurants as much as we used to (Chopt doesn’t count.) We’ve spent a lot of time on the tennis courts, cooking at home, and watching a ton of Dateline episodes. We do however have a date planned for this weekend, so we’ll be trying a new place out. 
We headed over to the new Rhino Market & Deli to check out the new spot and see what kind of goods they had. It’s a great spot for local products, drinks, and their deli looked pretty good. I especially liked looking through their local coffee selection. After I finish up my roasts, I’ll head back over there to pick out a few. 
Tuesday was such a busy day. I finished my work around six pm, and then made a giant salad for dinner. That’s the best way to end a day in my opinion. Big salads and long dog walks! My salad had romaine, kale, broccoli, onion, bell pepper, chickpeas, cucumber, sprouts, and chicken tossed in balsamic.
Oh, and another great way to end the night? A sweet treat. I’ve been great about replacing my sweet tooth cravings with tea, but sometimes you have to treat yourself. I found a new gelato at Earthfare that looked so good. It’s called Revolution Gelato, and it’s made with coconut milk. I topped half of a coconut almond bar with a little of the vanilla gelato, and it was tasty! 
We slept like babies. I loved waking up with this cuddle bug.
He didn’t want to get up though.
Later in the afternoon, we headed out for a long neighborhood walk. I’ve been drinking the Harney & Son’s hot cinnamon tea for the past two weeks. It’s so dang good! It tastes like candy. 
I decided to stick with my short runs twice a week, so I headed out to run Wednesday evening. I just did four miles around the neighborhood before walking the dogs. The run was pretty good, and the weather was gorgeous. My knees felt a little achy, but I think this is what getting old feels like 🙂 Running twice a week is how I plan on maintaining the light mileage. 
After I finished my late-night dog walks, I made dinner. I didn’t know what I was making at first, but it turned into a delicious stir-fry. I cooked up chicken, broccoli, carrots, green beans, and added spicy Szechuan sauce. 
I also cooked up some cauliflower rice from Trader Joes that I had in my freezer. I flavored it with garlic powder and low sodium soy sauce. I topped the cauliflower rice with my stirfry. This meal was so good, and that’s why I love impromptu dinners. 
These boys make my heart so happy. I love finding them in the cutest cuddle sessions. 
Late night tea to end the night. 
After my morning dog walks, I made coffee and spent the morning blogging. I still needed to finish packing before my weekend trip. I am so obsessed with this mug! It’s only $5.99 🙂 
After packing for the tip, I made a breakfast that was just too beautiful, and I had to photograph it. Look how pretty that oatmeal is? Totally kidding, but not all food pics can be gorgeous. Eggs and oats are a favorite of mine when it comes to a quick and easy fix. Before heading out to drop off the dogs at my parent’s house, I made a super shake with wheatgrass, collagen peptides, spirulina, goji powder, ginger, turmeric, water, ice, banana, and vanilla protein powder.
The pups are always happy at my parent’s house. My parents spoil them! I also opened a package from Land O Lakes with pumpkin butter and other goodies inside. I can’t wait to try them out! 
I met up with Becca Friday afternoon to go for a walk and a late lunch. I had a salad at Panera. It had onion, lettuce, chicken, apple chips, kale, tomatoes, cucumber, eggs, and white balsamic dressing. This is always my go-to salad.
On Friday night, Kyle and I headed to the mall to pick up a few things before the trip. I had a soy latte from the Nordstrom cafe. One of Kyle’s close friends was turning 30, so we were heading to New Jersey for his surprise party. 
My eye has been on this J. Crew leather jacket…I’m waiting for a price drop before I make any moves. (jeans)
I was up at 4:15 am on Saturday morning. I need time to wake up, have coffee, and relax before heading to the airport. I don’t know how people can roll out of bed and head out. I don’t care how early I have to be somewhere; I’ll always wake up hours in advance. 
I decided to paint my nails at the airport since we had extra time. I’m so bad at painting my fingernails because I always smudge them somehow. I’ve been using Insta-dri fingernail polish, and it dries in like two minutes. It’s also only $2.49 and comes in so many different colors. It’s 100% my favorite fingernail polish. It also stays on without chipping instantly. 
Kyle and I grabbed a cup of hot water and made some cinnamon tea before boarding the plane. He is also obsessed with the cinnamon tea. I had him try it out on Friday night, and he stole my cup because he loved it so much. 
Larabar sent me some of my favorite seasonal flavors, so we had these for breakfast on the plane with coffee. I had the pumpkin pie, and Kyle had the snickerdoodle, both delicious! They held us over until 1 pm for lunch. 
Kyle’s sister was so sweet and picked us up from the airport. We had all day to spend with Kyle’s family before the evening plans. I was excited to see his dad again and take a tour of his hometown. We drove up to Hackettstown, NJ for lunch at Mattar’s. It was a nice spot with gorgeous views. I had a salmon salad and much-needed coffee. 
We drove around Kyle’s schools, his childhood home, and walked the town. Hacketstown is very quaint, and I love all of the older homes with big front porches. The town looked like something out of a movie.
We were both running on four hours of sleep, so all of this candy looked pretty good.
I especially loved seeing the leaves changing. Some of the trees have changed down in Charlotte, but most are still green. 
It wouldn’t be a complete tour without stopping at the Mars Chocolate HQ! (Top details in this post)(blue flats)(jeans)
We headed back to Hoboken around six and checked into our Hotel. We stayed at the W Hoboken! This hotel was gorgeous, and the views were breathtaking. What’s better than waking up to the entire NYC skyline?
The hotel beds were probably the softest hotel beds I’ve ever slept on. If we didn’t have to wake up early for a flight, I’d sleep all day. 
I tried to down three of these Nespresso pods before heading out. We had thirty minutes to get ready, but I was soaking up my relax time as long as I could. Honestly, what’s better than just drinking coffee and relaxing in the hotel robe? Nothing. 
We pulled ourselves together in twenty minutes and headed out. (long plum/purple cardigan)(Cross cold shoulder top) By the way, I’m not a lipstick person, but the Revlon Lipsticks have changed my mind. These colors stay on all night and do not smudge!
It was so great to see Kyle’s friends again and meet some I haven’t met yet. He has an amazing group of friends. 
We all headed down to South House in Jersey City, and it was probably one of the coolest places ever! It was giant, too. I was in love with their vintage style, and they killed it with the Fall decor upstairs in the restaurant area. Such a fun night. 
Kyle and I made our way back to the hotel around midnight. We couldn’t keep our eyes open any longer! By the way, Hoboken and Jersey City was a blast. Kyle and I are going to plan a trip back soon to see his sister and spend more time there. We didn’t have the chance to explore, but driving by all the cute coffee shops and restaurants was a total tease. We will be back. 
Goodnight, city! 
We were up bright and early again. Time for flight #2. (coat comes in like twenty colors)
If you guys are ever in the area, I highly recommend staying at the W Hoboken! They were so wonderful. 
We grabbed all the carbs at the airport. 
Hello, coffee! 
We made it home around 10 am! We were excited to head out and pick up the pups. We have serious dog-withdrawals. 
My cutie! 🙂
Before picking up the pups, we stopped at the Fresh Market to get some groceries. They had all the pumpkin spiced products out. I was excited to see the pumpkin tent back up this year! 
The boys!!! 
I ended up falling asleep around noon. I never nap or fall asleep during the day, so that goes to show how tired I was. Around four, I was ready for a late lunch/early dinner. I decided to make a jumbo restaurant-style salad. I chopped up kale, steamed/sauteed brussels sprouts, sliced tomatoes, onion, cucumber, avocado, and grilled chicken. 
How delicious is that? I love stuffing myself with yummy vegetables and protein. 
Later in the evening, we headed out for a walk to grab a coffee and pick up dinner for Kyle. I was still full from my salad, so an oat milk latte was how I wanted to end my day! Not Just Coffee is one of my favorite spots 🙂
There is a new spot in Uptown (literally so many new spots) called B.GOOD. It’s a locally-sourced restaurant, and everything looked so fresh and tasty. I’m excited to try it out because they had so many healthy options. 
Kyle ordered a grilled chicken sandwich on a whole wheat bun and he said it was fantastic. 
I’m also excited to try these Kombucha bottles! What a cute name for Kombucha. They were at the Rhino Market. 
That nap (and latte) gave me an extra boost in the evening. I headed out and walked Grumples two miles and Leo two miles. They were so well behaved! 🙂 It’s the perfect time of year for the weather right now. 
I am going to go out soon and take a ton of Fall photos of Charlotte. All of the houses in the Fourth Ward were totally decked out for Halloween. 
We popped popcorn and headed to bed to watch “Sinner,” our new binge-worthy show! & that’s how last week went!:)
Questions for you!
- Do you wake up hours before your flight, or roll out of bed and go?
- Are you carving pumpkins this year?
- Give me a fun fact about your hometown.
The sinner is SO GOOD!! I binge watched in a day with my roommates.
We are loving it! I feel like the show hasn’t gotten a lot of press! Or maybe I live under a rock!
You look amazing in the dresses! Great picks!
I roll out and go… and I’m usually rushing (never been late though, phew).
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Thanks, Charmaine! You are always so kind.
I don’t know how you do it!
1. HOURS. Haha I love leisurely getting ready for the airport and enjoying coffee making sure I have everything ready 🙂
2. No! I absolutely hate carving pumpkins. It just takes way too long!!
3. In Phoenix it is still getting up near 100 degree right now 🙁
Haha glad I’m not the only one!!
lol, that is funny!
Hopefully, you get some cool weather soon!!
xo xo
If you love egg and oats, eat them together in a bowl! It’s probably my favorite thing to eat. I usually make 1/3 C of oats, add a little bit of Earth Balance light butter, one egg and 2 egg whites over easy, and sprinkle green onions on top with s&p. The egg yolk makes it so creamy and it is soooo good. Some of clients eat this for breakfast now too! lol.
1. I’ve only flown twice (to Israel and Honduras years ago), so I was up early just because I was nervous. I’ll probably to do the same in a couple months when I have to start flying home for Physical Therapy school interviews!
2. I want to! I need to find a pumpkin patch here in SLC, it’s not the same if you just buy one from a grocery store in my opinion 😉
3. My hometown (Jacksonville, FL) has a weirdly cool pride about it. It’s a known thing to yell “DUUUVAALLL” (the name of the county) or something to do with 904 (the area code), even if its in another city or state. One time when I was in college in a city across the state, I was wearing a shirt from my highschool and some random kid yelled “duval” at me in passing and it was just like oh hey fellow Jax person. It’s hard to explain, and just sounds weird in writing but it’s a cool connection! It’s a big city and yet feels really small just because everyone knows each other somehow, like you’ll have friends of friends or something.
My dad does that! He’ll mix them all in a big large bowl and it does look good, especially with syrup. Making it savory like you do sounds good too! I may have to try that out.
Those are big flights for the first ones!! I’d be up and nervous too!
That is awesome. I kind of feel like that in Charlotte. It’s big, but has a small town feel. Jacksonville, FL was a wonderful place when I visited! xo
1. Usually hours! Although that is more my fiancé’s , another Kyle!, doing. He is always so worried about being late that we get places super early! It is good for me though, I am always trying to get one more thing done before we leave. It is fun to shop around the airport though!
2. Yes! We love carving pumpkins! I always want to do something fancy (and always end up doing a plain old jack o’lantern lol, but roasting the pumpkin seeds is my favorite! I have been roasting butternut squash seeds for the last month and I’m addicted.
3. It is the birthplace of the first Steak n’ Shake!
Hahaha I’m weird. I’m ok with being late to the airport, I just want more time to myself on the couch in the morning lol I also like looking around the airport too! I always find unique and new snacks there.
I love the plane jackolantarns lol. I wanna do something fun and unique this year! Maybe a goldendoole!
Ohhhh that is aweosme! I’ve never been to a Steak n’ Shake, but they are always packed when I drive by!
I always look forward to your recap posts because you are such an inspiration for balancing a healthy lifestyle. I’ve struggled with being unhealthy in both the sense of not being active enough and eating too much, to then being too active and not eating enough. Your recaps always give me ideas about how to simply listen to my body for when and what i want to do for exercise and eating quality food when my body is hungry. Thanks for that! I love stir fry and make it a lot, and I was wondering what brand of “spicy szechuan sauce” you use and where I may find it. It sounds so good to add to veggies!
Hi, Sarah!
Thank you so much 🙂 Life is all about balance! I think everyone definitely goes through their too much of this, not enough of that moments and that’s why balance is the easiest to maintain. Definitely, live an intuitive life 🙂 I use San-J Szechuan Hot & Spicy Marinade & Stir-Fry Gluten Free you can find it at Walmart, Whole Foods and most grocery stores! It’s so good.
I loved The Sinner! It was different, but it sucked you in so you want to see how it ends! I love your pumpkin cup. And I am in full on pumpkin spice mode and am so excited to be seeing all the pumpkins and pumpkin flavors. I am not carving a pumpkin. I don’t think I’ve done that since I was a kid. And, I am with you on getting up hours before I have to be somewhere. I have to be able to have time to wake up before I just head out. I usually get up at least 2 hours before I have to go somewhere. Plus, when I’m still half asleep, it takes me forever to get ready! I really liked those dresses! I’ll be watching for the link for them!
It’s such a weird show! But you’re right. It keeps sucking you in. I love how they end the episodes in the middle of an anxiety attack situation lol
I am still up in the air about carving!
Yes me too!! Two hours at least. 🙂
I’m a roll out and go kind of person, and I’m typically always late, but I somehow always make it on time.
Yes I love carving pumpkins! Although, we may paint ours this year so it doesn’t die, like they do when you carve them.
My entire house shakes when a rocket goes off, I only live 10 minutes away from NASA.
Hahaha gotta do what works best for you!:D
Sometimes I do both!
WOW!!! That is awesome/….bad on the foundation? LOL
1.Do you wake up hours before your flight, or roll out of bed and go?
I’m very efficient when under pressure (procrastination!), but too much stress is bad for me (that’s what my doctor said during my last check-up) so I need to be early everywhere, especially when I have a flight. I really admire those people who can roll out of bed and go (what’s their secret?)!
2.Are you carving pumpkins this year?
Nope 🙁
Creative activities like pumpkin carving and I aren’t best friends (I even fail at doing origami!)
But I’m really, really good at telling horror stories!! (everyone has a talent)
3.Give me a fun fact about your hometown.
The spciality is chestnut, so every year in October there’s a chestnut fair with a parade of the chestnut guilds. When I tell people about it they find it funny
Hahaha. I’ll let you know when I find out.
Wait. Is anyone good at oragami?? lol
That sounds so cool though! What a great way to start the Fall season and I love chestnuts! lol
You and Kyle are adorable together.
He’s the greatest!
I have been reading your blog for a few years now (love the recipes and updates!) and I was so surprised to see you were in Hackettstown! I grew up about 15 minutes away from there. Small world.
Thank you, Angie!!
Small world for sure! Kyle grew up near Hackettstown as well 🙂 It’s BEAUTIFUL up that way!
You look beautiful and so happy lately!
I certainly feel it! xo & thank you.
1) Omgoshhh I have to be at the airport hours before. I get so nervous- wine is my best friend during a flight! Weh!
2) I have to agree that sometimes pumpkin carving takes SO long, last year we carved them just for an ENORMOUS squirrel to eat most of it within two days! I love the smell of a carved pumpkin with a candle inside though, am I right?
3) I am from Lexington, KY — we are the horse capitol of the WORLD! Yeehaw! It is a beautiful part of the country, and even though I am not there now, it will always be home!
Fall shopping is THE BEST shopping!!!
Hahaha that is awesome. Even in the morning? lol
Yes I also love the smell!! Oh, those darn squirrels!!
Ohhhhhh yes, Lexington is gorgeous!!
Hey Taralynn! I’ve never enjoyed tea but I’m constantly trying new flavors because I am so determined to find one I like haha. I’m definitely going to try this cinnamon one, I totally love cinnamon so hopefully it’s a winner! I’m wondering if you add anything to your tea, or just drink it plain?
You will not regret it!
With this tea you don’t have to add anything at all! It tastes like candy without anything added. I made a mistake and added honey the first time. It doesn’t need it at all.
1. Do you wake up hours before your flight, or roll out of bed and go?- I make sure I have everything ready the night before, wake up with just enough time to wash my face & brush my teeth, change into comfy clothes and hit the road! I am NOT a morning person so I always wake up at the absolute last minute.
2. Are you carving pumpkins this year?- Not carving any this year, but have a bunch sitting on my porch and patio
3. Give me a fun fact about your hometown- My home town is a teeny tiny farm town in lower Michigan and is on the route of the underground railroad, so tons of houses have secret rooms and hidden hallways. It’s pretty cool 🙂
You do it the right way! Good that you everything ready to go! I have everything ready to go, but I just have to wake up for the coffee time lol I’ll have an off day if I don’t.
Same here, but we may carve them if we get around to it!
That is awesome! We have homes like that in Iowa where I’m originally from.
I’m with ya girl, I feel so much more put together getting going early.
We carve pumpkins every year and mostly to make pumpkin seeds with them. We intentionally pick smaller pumpkins so we get lots of seeds.
Yes! Helps for sure!
I had no idea that smaller pumpkins have more seeds! GOOD TO KNOW! 😀
xo
I definitely roll out of bed for my flight, 8 hate waking up super early or even just to an alarm in general! (Then on a Saturday morning I’m up at 7am no problem, hate that!)
Probably not gonna carve pumpkins, it was never a tradition in my family and I SUCK at it!!!
My hometown was once named “the best town to raise your children”
Love your blog!
🙂 Kristen
I don’t know how you do it! lol
I haven’t carved a pumpkin in a long time! It’s messy but Grumples loves eating the pumpkin pieces.
That is an awesome fact! Are you going to be raising your kiddos there?! 😉
xo xo
You HAVE to try the Celestial Cinnamon Apple tea if you haven’t already. It is amaaaaazing!! My mom who lives in Europe always buys 5+ boxes to take back home when she comes to visit, and she travels with a carry-on… it is that good!
Ohhhh that sounds amazing! I love love anything cinnamon!
Did I miss where you mentioned the lifestyle blogs you like to read? Ha! I always love checking out new blogs and I was excited to hear the ones you love! (Coming from your twitter post yesterday!) Loved the recap! Looks like you both had a great time! <3
It’ll be in my next recap!:) I still need to go through the ones people sent me on Twitter! xo
What shoes are you wearing with the ripped jeans? They look like slip on sneakers…I’ve been looking for a good pair!
Those are literally my favorite! Here is the link & they are on sale!!! They are the “blush” color!
What brand/ where do you get your spicy Szechuan sauce? I love you recaps!
Thank you, Sarah!!
San-J Szechuan Hot & Spicy Marinade & Stir-Fry Gluten Free! You can get it at Whole Foods, Earthfare, & even Walmart!
That. Indigo dress. GORGEOUS!
😀
Okay…definitely going to have to get this tea. It appears you can only buy it online, as it doesn’t appear sold in stores. As for your Panera salad, do you typically custom order? I have never seen that type before, just the regular fuji apple. I love Panera but didn’t know they even had hard boiled eggs! Thanks in advance for all your awesome links, too, I’m on my way to checking those flats out 😉
This tea is a gamechanger and I can’t preach about it enough! You can get it at Target and some grocery stores right now. My mom even found it at Walmart.
I usually use the DIY Kiosk and customize the Fuji apple chicken salad. It’s better to use their kiosk so you can pick your options! You can also do it from your phone 😀
1. Just this week we had to leave the house at 4:30 am to go to our flight, and the earliest I could get up was 3:45 am. Ideally I’d get up a few hours earlier, but I couldn’t with that time!
2. I LOVE carving pumpkins, and anything fall related! Total bonus that there are the pumpkin seeds you can use in the end and roast with spices!
3. I grew up in Potomac, MD and while I don’t know any fun facts about Potomac specifically, I did go to the same middle school (for a short time) as Taylor Momsen from Gossip Girl.
Yes, that would be an exception if I had to wake up that early!
MMMM Pumpkin seeds are so good!
Haha that is awesome! I loved her in The Grinch!
I love that you’re including more photos of your outfits and links! I’m always curious.
I get asked about them a lot so I figured it would be better for me to just link up! Glad you like it! 😀
I love that NF jacket! The blue looks good on you.
Well thank you!!!
You look so pretty in all of your outfits! I love how you recommend reasonably priced clothes and makeup. 😊
That is the sweetest! Thank you so much 🙂
I try to buy only reasonably priced outfits unless I plan on wearing it over and over again! 😀
1. I can just wake up and go. I do likemy mornings to myself tho. I don’t like it when my husband gets ready at the same time as I, because it messes up my “me time.”
2. No pumpkin carving this year sadly.
3. In my hometown, I lived across the street from MLK JR. and Coretta Scott King’s tomb and his church he preached in. And 2 streets from his childhood home.
I love NJ btw! My dad is from there and the autumn is my favorite time there! So beautiful and quaint.
Hahahaha yes. “me time” is a real thing.
That’s a pretty cool fact!!
Yes, I’ve loved it every time I’ve visited.
Thank you for the kind words about New Jersey. I so often hear horrible things about my state and it’s refreshing to see your positive words. Please come back and do a meetup!
Awwww thanks, Katie! And your state is gorgeous!!!!
Can I ask why you don’t count Chopt as eating out? I remember you mentioning also not counting it in your healthy habits posts and I was curious. I have a similar place where I live and I love going there but it became more difficult to not count it as eating out when I realized how similar in price it is to eating out at any other place.
I’m not really referring to the price of things, I’m just talking about Kyle and I not going out and dining at restaurants as much as we used to. Picking up Chopt and Panera are for convenience. We cook more at home and try new recipes instead of going to sit-down restaurants.
I’m from Hackettstown, so it is so awesome that you stopped there to visit! I’m glad you enjoyed yourself!
That is awesome!!:) It was a great town!
OMG. YOU WERE IN MY HOMETOWN! My family lives two blocks from that candy shop!
That is so awesome! What a fun place to grow up 🙂
I have that same top from Loft! I bought it in the other two colors too!
That is awesome! I love the fit of the shirt.
I’ve never carved a pumpkin but my kids and I are going to attempt it this year. It’s 90 degrees here in Arizona today so I love seeing your Fall photos. My hometown is used for many movies!
How exciting!! I hope you enjoy carving pumpkins :D:D:D I’m sure the kids will enjoy that! 90 degrees! We were like that last week!
you must have done sth,
I mean ur dogs look different
or just because of the different pose?
o and Autumn is my favorite! I always spend a lot of time outdoor in autumn
what a beautiful season?
BTW,u look wonderful, especially with those dress! good day?~
They both had haircuts!:) & Leo has gotten so big!!!
& thank you for the kind words!! xo
I didn’t know Kyle was from New Jersey. I always thought he was from the south.
Carving pumpkins grosses me out haha
My hometown is so boring. That’s what it’s known for.
Nope! My northern boy 😀
hahaha it can be kind of gross! lol
I literally LOLd so loud at that!
I love your recaps taralynn! Do you take a lot of photos with your cell phone?
Thank you, Quinn, and yes I do!!
You and Kyle seem to have the perfect relationship. Do you guys ever fight? I’d love to see a relationship blog from you. I’ve been with my boyfriend for two years but we fight so much that I’m miserable half the time. I love him but I feel like it isn’t working.
Sorry you’re going through that Jane 🙁
No relationship is perfect. I mean…what is a perfect relationship anyway? I know it may sound weird, but Kyle and I do not fight. We don’t have reasons to fight, but we do have disagreements that we just discuss and compromise. And the disagreements are usually so small. He really is my best friend and I couldn’t imagine ever fighting or being upset with him. But, I think it’s because we are so compatible and we just work. In my past relationships, there were lots of fights and I was miserable, so it really just came down to the person and my happiness. If I would have stayed in those relationships, I would never have been happy and I would have never met Kyle. Life is too short to be miserable. You should really think about if it’s worth it and if you want to continue the cycle!
Fantastic recap! NJ looks amazing, I can’t wait to visit NJ late next year. I have to get up a few hours befor flights I need that time to workout, drink coffee and relax. I have never carved a pumpkin. Fun fact about my town, we have 16 fresh water lakes, fantastic in summer! We also are home to skyline luge (down hill go karting). Hope you have a fantastic week!
Thanks, Harriet!
You’ll love it. You workout before flights? Look at you go!! You’ve never carved a pumpkin……you better do one this year!!!
Your hometown sounds like a dream!
Have a great week & weekend!
That photo of you by the window is gorgeous.
Lol thank you!!
That shirt is so cute on you! Is that the one you got in four colors? Is it soft?
Yes it is!:)
I love those blue flats!
Thanks!!
I’m always up early before I have to be anywhere. I’m a teacher and wake up two hours before I have to be at work.
I don’t blame you!
What a fun trip! NJ sounds lovely.
It definitely was!
You look so grown up and beautiful!
🙂 That is the sweetest!
I’ve been curious about Sinner! Is it worth a binge?
YES!
I’ve totally noticed how much less you’ve been eating out at restaurants. It’s inspired me to cook at home more as well. I will be stalking your blog for that cranberry recipe you posted on your Instagram last night. Thank you for always inspiring us Taralynn. Never stop blogging! I don’t know what I would read in the morning with my coffee.
I plan on carving pumpkins with my nephew this weekend. It’ll be his first time 🙂
I don’t know a lot about my hometown, but my grandpa has been the mayor there four times.
Hi, Hannah!
I think eating at home is so much less stressful lol. I hate waiting when I’m hungry and always trying to make swaps. It’s just to try out and create recipes at home too! Oh, and that recipe will be up tomorrow OR LATER TODAY!!! We’ll see!!
That’ll be so fun! You are a great Auntie!!
Four times!?! GO GRANDPA!!
Hey Taralynn! If I have a flight, I like to get to the airport at least 2 hours early because I like to give myself enough time to figure out where I need to go and not stress about timing lol. I want to carve pumpkins but I live in an apartment now and I have a “porch” squirrel who basically lives on my balcony, haha! I feel like he would destroy any pumpkin I put out there! Maybe I’ll paint pumpkins this year instead and keep them inside 🙂 my hometown is Baltimore and a little fun fact is that Michael Phelps is from here!
I always look forward to your posts! Love the picture of you and Kyle the night of the surprise party, that lipstick shade looks great on you 🙂 Hope you have a fabulous week!
Hi, Kelsey!
Yes, I agree! Stress-free is the way to be! (especially when flying) Painting pumpkins are fun too though! Love Michael Phelps! 🙂 It’s funny because Ryan Lochte is from Charlotte haha
& THANK YOU!! I always look forward to chatting with everyone, so the recaps are a blast for me! xo xo
Those Larabars look so good! Snickerdoodle is my favorite dessert. You should make a healthy snickerdoodle cookie recipe.
I actually have one! It’s so good too 🙂
http://simplytaralynn.com/2014/04/11/70-calorie-almond-flour-snickerdoodle-cookies/
My boyfriend has the same shoes as Kyle in the airport photo! Kyle is handsome!
Lol omg! Kyle is obsessed with those shoes!! He bought them in two different colors!! hahaha We have jokes about the “killshots”
I live in Hoboken and grew up in Hackettstown! Let me know when you come back and I’ll give you some recommendations!
Thank you!! Can’t wait to come back 🙂
I wish my diet was balanced. I tend to eat a lot of junk and can’t get myself to eat healthy 🙁
It takes time to make it a habit. just start making slow lifestyle changes and you’ll eventually get there! xo
Bought those flats!
Yay! They are so comfy 😀
Fun post, I have actually been to Hoboken but it was only for a concert, it definitely looks like a fun place, and that view from your room was gorgeous! I am one of those who only gets up maybe an hour before I need to leave for the airport, but I just make sure that I have everything ready to go, and I usually get to the airport very early and just hang out there. My hometown is Seal Beach CA, which originally used to be called the Bay City but was changed in the early 1900’s because there was already Bay City in Northern California. You’ll need to come check it out next time you visit your brother! Also I love all of the links you’ve been adding for your clothes, I’ve been looking for a jacket like the North Face one you linked so I’ll be buying that for sure!
Thanks, Ashton!
The view was breathtaking and I can’t wait to get back there and explore! I was sad I didn’t make it to seal beach, but I will next time for sure!!! Glad you like the links. People ask me where I get stuff, so I figured links would make it easier. Also, I love how inexpensive that NF jacket is! AND I love that it comes in so many colors! 😀 xo
I just want to say that I love reading your recaps each week, you’re so good a striking a balanced, healthy life. I’ve struggled after losing weight to be healthy in the sense of eating enough, finding balance, allowing myself a treat (like when someone bring homemade muffins into work!), and changing my mindset to know to end eating too little some days and then eating waaaayyy too much on other days. Was it just time and trial and error that has gotten you to this healthy mindset and lifestyle? After losing almost 40 lbs. it’s been hard to repair my relationship to food. I also wanted to say that i love stir fry and I’m wondering what brand/ where you buy that spicy szechuan sauce!
Thank you, Dani!
That is so sweet of you. Finding that balance really takes time. Eating intuitively and listening to what my body wants/needs is the best way to do it. Never telling yourself you “can’t” have something is key. If you can’t have something, your mind tends to crave it more. You can’t deprive yourself, or it becomes a vicious and unhealthy cycle. Nice job on your weight loss! I do highly recommend you look into intuitive eating if you are struggling 🙂 San-J Szechuan Hot & Spicy Marinade & Stir-Fry Gluten Free is the sauce!! xo xo
Yayy you visited my neighborhood!! I’ve lived in Jersey City for 3 years, and surprisingly have never been to South House. You’ve inspired me to finally go! I love Hoboken too, that was my favorite place to go for my long runs when I was training for my half marathon! Hope you get to come back soon!
Girl, you have to go! It was such a cool spot! Oh and the food looked fantastic. Every time a waiter walked by with a plate I was tempted to just steal a bite, or hoped he’d drop a french fry 😉
We will be back soon for sure!
wOW! That skyline.
It’s a beautiful one for sure!
1. I definitely like to wake up with enough time to get ready, etc. I even like to do some light yoga in the AM.
2. Not sure about carving pumpkins, but definitely decorating with them.
3. Quite a few famous peeps were born in San Francisco – Clint Eastwood, Bruce Lee, Alicia Silverstone, Natalie Wood, Jerry Garcia…
I am loving the hot cinnamon tea! I do like to use one bag per cup though despite what the tea tin says.
Random question: do you salt your eggs? Like you, I eat eggs just about every day, but I like mine heavily salted and that’s something I worry about.
NJ looks gorgeous, you look gorgeous in that lipstick, and your man looks gorgeous, haha! Oh, and that pic of Leo and Grumples resting is too cute…did you notice they are forming a heart shape?
Good for you! I am never calm enough to do yoga in the morning lol
At least something festive with pumpkins. San Fransisco is such a cool city!
The hot cinnamon tea is so good. DRINKING IT NOW! 😀
Eggs are naturally salty and higher sodium, so I don’t need the extra salt. I think if you gradually stop adding salt you won’t need it anymore.
Thank you for the gorgeous comments! Made me laugh. I didn’t even notice!!! but thats so cute!!
The pink’s a cute color on you 🙂 I was curious — do you get any symptoms of GERD? I used to drink coffee (max 2 cups/day) and gradually developed GERD. Now I settle for black tea. I’ll have to try that cinnamon tea!
Thank you, Nicole!!
I have never heard of GERD! (brb…goooooogling) & NOPE! I really only have coffee twice a day, but it doesn’t irritate me at all. (knock on wood) My parents have been drinking it all their lives and they seem ok as well. But, you will LOVE that cinnamon tea!
That skyline shot is SO cool! What an incredible view.
I always PLAN to wake up hours before. And then I wake up and re-set my alarm to go off much later haha. Ben’s the one who jumps out of bed and loads everything and I end up a hot mess. Thank goodness for him :).
We WANT to carve pumpkins! But we’re quickly running out of time. Maybe we’ll go to the patch this weekend!
We live in Boulder, CO and honestly, the label ‘colorful Colorado’ is well deserved here! The fall colors are INSANE right now! It makes me so happy!
It was lovely for sure!!! 🙂
Hahaha, that is funny. I felt weird traveling on a Saturday so when my alarm went off at four, I couldn’t remember why I set it. I’m also the type of person that is up when I’m up. I couldn’t fall back asleep.
We are going to carve them and watch halloween movies!!!
OMG take so many photos!!!!
OK first of all. You are just the cutest. I love all of your outfits! And that dress from the beginning of the post- get it in that color, girl! It looks stunning! And all of your pictures are gorgeous as always 🙂 That skyline though… holy MOLY. What a freaking view!
1. For a flight, I am absolutely up early and ready to go. But for things like work… I get up about 20 minutes before, shower, and run out the door hahaha.
2. Not carving, but my bf and I painted some 🙂
3. My home town is called Grand Forks… hahaha. I think that fact alone is kinda fun! Have a wonderful weekend!
Thanks, Anna!! You are always so sweet!!
Painting is fun too! I used to do both!
I’ve been to Grand Forks!:)
The Sinner was awesome!
The navy dress- you look stunning!
I get a golden retriever puppy tomorrow!
I know those are not the answers to your questions but they are things I had to say!
Thank you so much, Lisa!!!
& yes it was!!!
AWWW YAYA!! TAG ME IN PICS PLEASE!! I LOVE PUPPIES!!!!
That chiffon gown is gorgeous! I also have nowhere to wear it to… but I WILL be buying!
Hahaha we can just plan somewhere fun to go together 🙂 I think I like the dark green/blue colored one!!
I usually wake up hours beforehand, for some reason getting on the plane gets my nerves all wacky, which in turn, makes me have a bad night of rest beforehand.
I don’t think I will be carving pumpkins this year. I usually do, however, I’ve been so busy this fall already I don’t think I will find the time.
My hometown is Fairfield, IA and it has the BEST sushi place, Shokai Sushi. It’s amazing if you’re a sushi lover!
That happens to a lot of people for sure!
It happens! 🙂 But there is always Thanksgiving & Christmas to enjoy!!
lol so funny, been to Fairfield so many times growing up!!
1. I prep everything the night before but i still wake up early! It’s ingrained in me to be early for everything (thanks Dad)
2. Of course! We’re going for a pirate pumpkin this year.
3. I live 10 minutes from Chocolatetown, USA (Hershey, PA)! If you enjoyed the Mars HQ experience you MUST visit Hershey. How can you not love an entire town dedicated to chocolate? 🙂
Lol I’m all about chocolate. Chocolate covered anything!!!
Great pictures. I enjoyed reading!
Thank you!
Have you listened to the “A Date With Dateline” podcast? It’s amazing if you like Dateline, two women talk about the latest episode of Dateline and it’s hilarious.
UM NO…BUT I’LL BE CHECKING IT OUT!!!
It’s awesome, I look forward to it every week 😃
That is so sweet!
Do you wake up hours before your flight, or roll out of bed and go? – I get INTENSE airport anxiety so I am up hours before getting ready. I cannot relax until I am through security. Then I get coffee. 🙂
Are you carving pumpkins this year? I really want to! But our apartment is in a secure building and we don’t have a patio or anything so we don’t really have anywhere to put pumpkins right now. 🙁
Give me a fun fact about your hometown. I grew up in Portland, OR. Their slogan is “Keep Portland Weird.” There is a man who rides around on a unicycle dressed in Darth Vader costume that plays bagpipes and sometimes they blow fire. LOL!
Hi, Ashley!
That feeling after getting through airport security is the best!
Awwww::( Maybe you can paint them!
Lol that is funny! I love it.
Such a fun post to read! I live in NJ!
NJ is so fun! Can’t wait to come back!!
Amazing photos! I love your travel posts. I always feel like I’m there with you. The reason you are my favorite blogger is because you actually document the experience instead of giving three pictures and a paragraph. I appreciate everything you do!
Thank you, Jessie!! That is so sweet of you! Sometimes I feel like I share way too many photos, but I’m glad you like it!! 🙂 Means so much!!
I love your photos!
Well thank you!!
I was so excited to see you visited Hackettstown, NJ! If you love sunflowers, visit Donaldson’s Farms during the summertime. Most beautiful sunflower fields in the area! 🌻
Thanks, Christina!