I planned on getting my recap post done last night, but I fell asleep on the couch while I was uploading all of the photos. I shut the computer down, did my nightly pre-bed routine, and then hopped into bed thinking I’d fall right asleep. Nope. I was wide awake! I ended up watching Shark Tank for a bit before finally passing out.
It was so cold when I woke up this morning! I had to bundle up and take the dogs out before warming up with coffee. I do love the colder weather around the holidays, but I don’t love walking the dogs in it. I need to get warmer gloves, and then I wouldn’t mind it as much. Those one dollar gloves at Target don’t cut it. I do have pretty warm leather gloves that Kyle’s mom bought me last Christmas, but they are way too nice to wear on dog walks. I save those for special occasions 🙂
I have my second cup of coffee in my hand, so it’s time to start this recap post! I had such a fun week, and I hope you all had great ones, too!
After recapping my week on Monday morning, Becca and I headed out to the Birkdale Village in Huntersville to grab coffee, and walk around. It was definitely “sweater weather” so we grabbed our coffee and just walked around the shopping area. We chose the Birkdale Village because Becca had never been there before and it was decorated so cutely for the holidays. But first? Coffee. We picked up cinnamon dolce (1 pump) Americanos!
I was so excited to find the book The Break Down! I just finished reading B.A. Paris’s last book, so I couldn’t wait to get my hands on this one. After I finish all of my holiday DIY gifts, baking, and shopping, I am going to sit down to read this one. I just finished writing a recipe and book review for Behind Closed Doors! I’ll be sharing that later this week. I am still trying to find the perfect book for my January review. And don’t worry, I’ll still let you know my thoughts on The Break Down! I’ve heard really good things about it.
On the way home, I decided to make dinner easy and pick up a Chopt Salad. I love getting salads at Chopt because they are so large and last for two meals. I usually eat half and add extra kale to make it last longer. I usually get a Spindrift Sparkling water when I’m there as well 🙂
My salad order was a custom build. I had the Chopt Blend (kale/romaine/cabbage) edamame, tomatoes, chicken, eggs, avocado, chickpeas, cucumber, onion, butternut squash, and hot honey vinaigrette on the side. I also recommend their Kebab Cobb with falafel.
Before I sat down to put my RetailMeNot post together and have dinner, I took Grumples and Leo for a walk. I took Grumples two and Leo one. I try to hit six miles a day with my dogs. That’s pretty much been the extent of my workouts lately, and it’s been great!
Early Tuesday morning, I grabbed a protein bar and headed out to drop Leo off at camp. He’s been going to a camp out at a farm, and he gets to run around all day long. Camp is important for his socialization and his energy. Grumples and I usually go for really long walks/hikes when he’s at camp. I sometimes like to have a little one on one time with Grumples, and Leo is VERY energetic. He does this thing at night where he just paces around looking for things that’ll get in trouble just to get my attention. I usually have to put him in the hallway behind the baby gate until he gives up. But with camp, he’s so tired that he eats his food and sleeps the rest of the night.
I love the drive out to his camp. It’s a bit far out in the country, but it’s so scenic and worth the drive. I make a coffee to-go, take the backroads, and listen to music on the way out there. I also take Grumples for the ride. If it’s not too cold, they love sticking their heads out of the window with the wind blowing in their faces.
While I was finalizing some things on the blog and catching up on emails, I made a quick lunch with the lack of groceries in my house. I found some cherries at Publix (had no idea you could find them this time of year) and a protein filled yogurt cup. I’ve been mixing chocolate Vega protein powder and honey with unsweetened So Delicious coconut milk yogurt. I usually freeze it for twenty minutes so it thickens up! t’s so delicious. This is great for a chocolate ice cream alternative.
We had nasty cold and rainy weather in the evening. Good thing Leo was already worn out from camp! After taking the dogs out for their nightly walk, I made an easy dinner. I roasted GoVeggie fries and my honey mustard chicken breasts.
On Wednesday morning, I skipped out on my go-to egg breakfast and treated myself to a bowl of oatmeal with cinnamon, honey, and a tablespoon of dark chocolate chips added on top. So tasty!
On Wednesday afternoon, I made a vegetable and chicken crockpot soup. It was so good and I’ll be eating the soup all week long. I love to make soup and freeze it. Here is the recipe!
The boys were OUT! It was so cold, so the soup was perfect for warming me up. We ended up watching Elf and falling asleep.
I spent Thursday catching up on a lot of work. I didn’t even manage to match my socks, and this was the only photo I took. I had leftover soup, chocolate protein powder yogurt, and at least showered!
On Friday morning, I added honey, Goji Powder & Acai Powder to my unsweetened coconut milk yogurt topped with raisins and strawberries. It was so good!
Goji Powder: (health benefits) & (where to buy)
Acai: (health benefits) & (where to buy)
For lunch, I had roasted kale (seasoned with garlic/onion/sea salt/black pepper & bake ten minutes at 400) and some of my chicken and vegetable soup. Leo was ready for his afternoon walk!
I really needed to hit the grocery before the weekend! After power cleaning, I stopped out at Hobby Lobby to get some crafts for some DIY Christmas gifts and ornaments, and then also picked up food for the weekend. More eggs:) Before leaving the grocery store, I ordered an Americano with an extra shot of espresso. Becca has me hooked on these!
I finished some of my crafting around 9 o’clock! It was late, but Kyle and I were both starving, so we made breakfast for dinner. We made french toast with Udi’s whole grain gluten-free bread (we honestly love the taste of this bread, and it makes the best french toast because it’s slightly dry.) We used this bread for French Toast when we were in the Smoky Mountains and instantly became hooked. For the egg mixture, I added cinnamon, vanilla, and nutmeg.
I baked the bacon (Applegate) for 17 minutes at 375 to make it extra crispy.
Breakfast hit the spot! Then we ended our night like every other Friday night, with a Dateline!
I was up at 6 am on Saturday morning. I got up, got dressed, walked the pups, and headed to Waxhaw to meet up with Becca. We wanted to grab a coffee and do a little morning Christmas shopping. It was the perfect day to do a little holiday shopping because it was snowing! There were flurries all morning! They melted as soon as they hit the ground, but I’ll take what I can get.
But first? COFFEE!
If you’ve been reading my blog for a while, you all know that I love Waxhaw. I fell in love with this little town outside of Charlotte when I first moved here almost four years ago. I’ve been going to Crossroads Coffeehouse for a long time, and it never fails me. In the summer, we like to grab a coffee, walk around, and just hang around the downtown area. Waxhaw is a perfect little town. I am heading there again this week because I want to get some Christmas shopping done in their pottery stores, antique stores, and quaint boutiques.
When we stopped in the coffee shop, they were having the town meeting. I felt like it was a very Gilmore Girls moment.
The entire town of Waxhaw was lit up for the holidays! I want to walk the town at night 🙂 It put me in the Christmas spirit fast.
I ordered a twelve-ounce Americano with two extra shots of espresso! The bags under my eyes told me to do it.
The town was still sleeping when we got there.
And it was donut time! The last time Becca and I took a coffee photo like this, it was almost 100 degrees outside! (photo here)
Remember the green coat I wear all the time? Well, I bought it in black! I ordered size (small/tall) IT’S SO WARM! & pretty dang cheap. I just saw that they have a red one, so I may have to get one! I am a coat lover. I like to have at least four or five good coats to alternate so that they don’t get worn down so fast. I have about six coats to retire, so once I toss those, I’ll make room for a new one.
I’m wearing a soft pink sweater that is one of the warmest sweaters I possibly own. It was only $12.99. I wish I would have bought more colors. I sleep it in a lot because it’s so soft 🙂
The faux fur knit beanie! So warm:) Only $15.99 at Nordstrom!
And my bag? Only $19.99 🙂 Check it out here!
The boots I’m wearing are from a boutique I visited in Paris four years ago. But! I found a very similar pair of them at Target! You can find them here:)
Funny story about this donut. I had a bite and then set it down on my car seat, so I could put my camera in the back of the car before heading to shop around a bit. When I got back into the car, I didn’t even look but ended up sitting on the beautiful donut. Yes, it was stuck to my butt. Luckily it easily wiped it off. Still sad. When I told my dad the story, he told me that “donuts go straight to your ass” lol Gotta love dad jokes.
I picked up a bunch of extra craft supplies for the ornaments I’m making, but also picked up a Kind Bar because I was hungry. I guess it’s better than a donut 🙁
I found this top for Christmas Eve! I didn’t buy the pants because they are little too wild for me. I’m obsessed with the top though! I love tops like this because you can wear them for Valentines Day, Christmas, Fourth of July, and any other holiday that involves red, which is most of them. I was keeping an eye on the Michael Kors top for the holidays and it literally looks JUST LIKE THIS ONE! So I’m happy I tried it on.
After Christmas shopping, we headed out to a couple markets on the way back to Waxhaw.
It was cool because they had fresh strawberries from a farm in SOUTH South Carolina and fresh apples! I picked up some apples and some a bag of candied pecans for holiday baking (even though Kyle and I made our way through a lot of them.) Whoops.
My mom called me when I was on my way home and asked if Kyle and I would like to join her and my dad for a late lunch at our favorite spot, The Garden Cafe! UM YES!!!! This is another one of my favorites spots outside of Charlotte! I was in heaven on Saturday.
They decorated everything perfect for the holidays!
My mom is so cute! 😀 For lunch, I had a grilled chicken salad. I picked up Chopt on the way home (before my mom called), so I knew I’d be eating that for a late dinner. Otherwise, I would have gone with the surf n turf!
The cafe was so cozy and the perfect escape from the cold weather.
After lunch, we walked around their gift shop, which is always fun! I bought some candles, tea, and wax melts for holiday gifts.
I thought I was going to be done running around for the day, but Kyle’s suit was ready for pick up! Remember last week when we were running everywhere trying to find him one? Well, he found a perfect one! We headed back to Charlotte to pick up the suit, and I ended up finding a warm sherpa while I was there. I have wanted one to walk the dogs in during the cold months, so this one was perfect!
We finally got back to my place at eight. I made a bowl of the Chopt Salad I ordered earlier and got back to the craft table to finish up a project.
Early morning coffee and dog walk on Sunday!
From 10 am to 8 pm Sunday, all I did was paint! It was amazing.
For dinner, I made Kyle and I some chicken and quinoa! The chicken was sautéed in a buffalo sauce and spicy Szechuan. I also added black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, minced onions, and chopped garlic. It turned out pretty dang tasty.
I sautéed steamed quinoa with kale, roasted red peppers, tomatoes, chickpeas, and added a Greek vinaigrette. It seems like an odd combo to go with spicy chicken because it is, but it worked.
We had dinner while Kyle watched the Eagles and I started working on this blog post (before falling asleep.)
Oh, and see where that teal chair is? I’m going to be adding a camel colored faux leather chair! I can’t wait to find the perfect one!
I hope you guys have a great week! Some things coming up! 1. The book review! 2. A giveaway with CVS! 3. DIY ornaments!
Questions for you!
- Did you get snow this weekend?
- Are you buying everything for holiday gifts, or adding in a little DIY?
- Should I do a Christmas Vlog this year?
Khaylon says
Those pants looks so cute on you!
1. No snow, but lots of frost 😆
2. I will be buying lol I do make fudge for everyone though so I’m not sure if that counts as DIY
3. YES! Pleas do a Christmas vlog lol vlogs / vlogmas are such a huge guilty pleasure for me.
Taralynn McNitt says
Well, thank you!
& frost kind of counts?? lol
I’ve actually NEVER made fudge…(but its so good)
I don’t know how they’re doing vlogmas! That is so much editing lol
Melanie says
Your mom looks like your sister!
Taralynn McNitt says
Lol hope I have her good genes!
Bailey says
Does Becca write a blog?
Taralynn McNitt says
EpilogueB! But she’s taking a break for a bit to focus on school!! 😀
Dani says
Rest in peace donut! 🙁
Taralynn McNitt says
HAHAHAHA
Anonymous says
Dog post! Dog post!
Taralynn McNitt says
lol i know!!! I need to finish it!
Julie says
Hi Taralynn!
1) No snow for us in Seattle this weekend but it has been pretty cold and icy!
2) I’m doing a combo this year of making parts and buying parts! 🙂
3) I would love to see you do a Christmas Vlog!
I always love reading your recap posts! Takes me all the way across the country through the cutest little cities I’ve ever seen!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Julie!
Stay safe with that ice!! But, you’re in Seattle! Perfect place to grab coffee and warm up.
Me too!!!
& yes I will!!
Thank you for the kind words, Julie! I will have to check out your blog!
Lindsey says
The photos of you are so cute! I miss seeing Becca in your posts.
Taralynn McNitt says
I miss seeing her toooooooo! lol She’s coming over for the holidays!
Jessica says
I need ADVICE! We are thinking about getting a second dog but we are soooo indecisive about it. I’m sure our dog will love having a friend but will she be jealous? She will enjoy the company but will we still have enough time for both? How did you feel getting a second fur baby? HELP!
1. No snow this weekend but we keep hoping!
2. we are DIYing little things but not doing a big gift year.
3. YES!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Jessica!
Well, adding another dog to the mix is honestly A BIG CHANGE. LIKE…prepare to put in a lot of work! You’ll have to train them to walk together, do double walks, deal with wrestling matches in the living room, spend double the money, and always have to make room for one more. BUT, IT’S WORTH IT. We love Leo and Grumples LOVES LOVES LOVES HIM!!!!
If I didn’t work from home, I would have never gotten another dog (and to be 100% honest, I didn’t want another dog), so that’s another one. I’m excited to move to a house with a big backyard eventually for them because they have a lot of energy. Also, not all dogs are the same when it comes to personality. Grumples was very welcoming and they became instant best friends from the first second they met. And that is RARE for Grumples. You may want to see how your dog reacts to other dogs coming into the home and staying for a while. Maybe watch one of your friend’s dogs for a week with the other dog. Practice having more than one dog for a while and see if it’s something you want to take on. I put in so many hours of my time with my dogs. I wake up and the first thing I do is walk Grumples a mile and then walk Leo a mile, and then feed them, and then sometimes I’m chasing Leo around the house because he’s in something he shouldn’t be in, or they are playing rough house. At noon and before bed I have to do the same thing over again. It’s honestly never ending lol. Sometimes two dogs can be stressful. It’s not always cute and lovely.
It’s worth it, but there is so much to consider.
Jessica Brown says
THANK YOU, I honestly needed to see all sides of the coin really. My husband works from home so that helps a lot but it’s so nice to see others who have introduced other dogs into the family. We are still considering but I am so thankful for your response. I love the idea of having another dog come stay to see how she does. Awesome advice.
Also, thank you for the book recommendation. It’s not something I would normally read but now I cannot stop. I’ll join the convo once I’ve read it all!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Jessica!
Having him working from home will make it a lot easier! Working and having a dog is FINE, but having TWO just takes more time, especially when they are puppies. I think having another dog around and just practicing for a bit is the way to go for sure! Just see how your husband handles having two dogs while working from home. It can actually be a distraction (thank goodness for the office.)
So happy you’re reading the book and I can’t wait to hear your thoughts on it! It’s so dark, yet so addicting.
Alaina says
Love the Sherpa! I’ve been trying to find one that isn’t huge, but the only thing I can find is the XS True Grit (not the slim Dylan which is better for women), and it’s still too big. What brand/size did you get? I may have to check it out! Thanks!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you, Alaina!
They all run pretty large!! I got a mens XS (because I was at a men’s shop) but it’s still really large.
Erin says
That red shirt is gorgeous! You look beautiful in red.
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you, Erin! <3
Linda @ The Fitty says
I have a habit of not wanting to wear or use new things just because I find them to be “too precious”, too! Those double walled-softer soft mittens and reading socks at indigo seem to be really warm–why not buy a pair of those?
And LOL, your dad’s got a nice sense of humor. I also love those flare pants with the red top! Red looks good on you.
And yes, please do a Christmas vlog! I don’t see enough videos of yourself.
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Linda!
Maybe I’ll look into those! Thanks for the suggestion!
Lol leave it to dad to have the best jokes around!
& thank you!!
Have a great week!
Linda @ The Fitty says
I sure wish my mom or dad had that sense of humor xD
Taralynn McNitt says
haha!
Vanessa says
Did you get snow this weekend?
We are having crazy amounts of snow in the Netherlands! It is so pretty but the country is so not prepared for it. Roads are empty, trains not running, the airports are a mess and schools closed. All because of 15cm of snow 😀
Are you buying everything for holiday gifts, or adding in a little DIY?
I DIY most of it. It adds a personal note and saves me some money
Taralynn McNitt says
I bet it is SO SO SO GORGEOUS! The Netherlands are on Kyle and I’s list of places to visit!
So cool you’re doing DIY! I’m doing a little mix.
Perri says
That would be so fun if you did a Christmas vlog!!
Taralynn McNitt says
I will do it!!
Sharni says
Ohhhhhh my word I’m so jealous of your snow! It’s currently 35 degrees Celsius here & I’m struggling to feel festive. I love that your parents met you and Kyle for lunch [how sweet!] and that Christmas spice tea sounds like everythinggggg. Also love your little beanie! So cute!
Sharni xo
http://www.agirlandgrey.com
Taralynn McNitt says
It didn’t stick at all haha!!
We couldn’t turn them down for lunch! They knew I’d never say no to the Garden Cafe.
& THANK YOU!!!
Haley says
I think you pulled off those striped pants perfectly! I am weird about designs on my pants too.
Please do a Christmas vlog!
Taralynn McNitt says
Lol well thank you, Haley!!!
Elly says
The RetailMeNot post has saved my life this weekend! I hope you do a Christmas vlog and I can’t wait for your book review.
Taralynn McNitt says
I love the site!!
Susie says
Did you get snow this weekend? No snow in California. We are burning up (literally) in SoCal 🙁
Are you buying everything for holiday gifts, or adding in a little DIY? I’m buying all this year 🙁
Should I do a Christmas Vlog this year? YES!!! 🙂
I love your idea of adding protein powder to yogurt! I’m always looking to up my protein.
OMG, I tried on a similar pair of those dressy striped pants and although I liked how they fit and looked, I just couldn’t buy them . I wish I were a little more daring, but alas, I am not. #basic
Taralynn McNitt says
Hope you are staying safe in Cali!! I talked to my brother about the fires and he said it’s pretty scary!
Why the sad face? You’re making it easy one yourself! Good for you! lol
It adds more flavor too 😀
Lol #SOBASIC always.
Sherie says
Waxhaw looks cute. I live an hour south of Charlotte so I am adding Waxhaw to my list! We didn’t get any snow this weekend 🙁
Taralynn McNitt says
Yes please add it!!
Danielle says
I just finished Behind Closed Doors! It was a sick storyline but great. I’ll definitely read more from this author!
Taralynn McNitt says
So sick, but couldn’t stop reading it!
Kelsey Weissner says
Hey Taralynn,
Waxhaw sounds and looks so cute! I love little towns like that. Baltimore did get snow on Saturday! We had about 4 inches on the ground, but thankfully the roads were just wet so it didn’t interfere with our fun weekend plans! For my parents, I’m buying them gifts because they don’t usually treat themselves so I try to get them things they would never spend money on. For friends and coworkers, I plan on making some homemade gifts out of Scrabble pieces! Did you know you can buy the pieces on Amazon? I think I will do a combo of picture frames and ornaments 🙂 this Christmas, my boyfriend and I decided not to get each other any big gifts, but to take a trip one weekend instead! He’s never been to NYC, so we plan on taking the train up later this winter to do some exploring. I think a Christmas vlog would be lovely!
I hope you have a great week!
xo Kelsey
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Kelsey!
I love little towns like that too 😀 I heard you guys got snow up that way! 😀
You are the sweetest! I’m sure they’ll appreciate them. I had no idea you could do that on Amazon, but IM NOT surprised 😉
Stay safe in NYC around the holidays! but enjoy the hustle and bustle of the city! I’d love to visit there around the holidays one day!
xo xo
Susie @ Mile High Dreamers says
Ahhhh I love Orgain protein! I had no idea they had bars though. I need those! Also, I would be SO sad if I sat on my donut haha, that’s like, ultimate disappointment!
NO snow here yet! WHAT is going on?? Everyone is getting snow except us. And YES, I am bitter about it!
I love doing a mix of buying and DIY. I really love making picture collages with a clear frame, they’re so meaningful and fun to put together. I also love baking, so I pretend I’m baking for everyone else, but really, it’s just an excuse to make all the treats I want to eat haha.
YES! You should definitely do a Christmas vlog!
Send us some snow please!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Susie!
I just ordered more Orgain last night. And I was SHOCKED at how good the bars were. They are now my favorite protein bar HANDS DOWN!!!! Lets just not talk about the dead donut….hahahaha
You’ll have it soon…I feel it.
I like doing mixes too!
It’s like 57 today here! we wont be getting snow! lol
xo
Lae says
Are you going back to Iowa anytime soon?
Taralynn McNitt says
Spring! 😀
Kelli G. says
1. We got snow…Oh did we get snow! 3ft. so far and still coming down! I’m stoked though, I LOVE winter and can’t wait for skiing and snowshoeing!
2. I usually do a bit of both which is fun, but this year I’m short on time so I’m using the talents of Etsy DIYer’s 🙂
3. It’s always fun to mix things up, y not?! Since u mentioned it in this post, is be interested in a nighttime routine post!
Taralynn McNitt says
WHAT!
That is so much snow!!!! You’re going to have a gorgeous white Christmas 😀
Lol, I like that idea too! I bought a cute mug on Etsy!
I’ve written about it somewhere, but I guess I can go more into detail for sure!
Shannen says
We got about 2.5 inches and I’m loving it!!! ❄️💜 snow is one of my favorite things (after fall leaves 🍁🍂) I don’t think I could ever live somewhere I don’t get to experience both!
I love your vlogs and I wouldn’t say no to another one! But I also know that they can be a lot of work, so don’t feel pressured to do it if you don’t feel like it! ☺️
Taralynn McNitt says
Woooo the perfect amount!
I love to do them, so all of the hard work is worth it! 😀
xo
Sam Arrigal says
1. You betcha!
2. I am working on a few DIY projects but I also bought some coffee and such for other gifts.
3. Yes!!!
Taralynn McNitt says
That sounds like what I’m doing too!!
Jennifer says
Not this weekend thankfully! I’m a “it can snow on Christmas, then melt” kind of girl.
Mostly buying, but I taught myself macrame and want to try and practice making a few keychains as gifts — I’d love to start selling eventually!
Yesss for vlogs!
Also, LOVE those striped pants — wild, but so fun! Hahaha
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Jennifer!
Lol I feel ya!! 😉
That would be really cool!!
lol they are fun, but I couldn’t pull myself to actually get them! I’d never wear them.
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says
Can’t get enough of donuts. There’s no time for them than Christmas! 🙂
No snow where I live, but it’s definitely getting colder. Not sure what I feel about it though, ahah!
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Taralynn McNitt says
They are the prettiest! Although, on Christmas, I do cinnamon rolls!
The cold sometimes is great, but as long as it comes and goes!! xo
Amanda says
You need to go back and get those pants!! I’m in love with that outfit <3 ☺️ I’ve been a long time reader of your blog and I can’t beleive it’s been 4 years since the move! I love your blog I’m always excited when a new one is posted!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hahaha! I couldn’t pull myself to do it lol I’m a chicken when it comes to “brave choices.”
It’s hard to believe it’s been that long!! & thank you for reading all of these years! That means so much to me! & honestly, it’s what keeps me going and writing these posts every week! xo xo xo
Siobhan says
Your donuts pictures are all so cute!
No snow here, just freezing rain (yuck), but it might snow later this week. I’m buying a majority of my gifts but am planning to make a couple little photo cubes for my best friends. Last year I made Scrabble tile coasters for my parents and they were a hit! They are probably my favorite DIY present I’ve ever made.
Your area looks like so much fun to live in. There are so many different shops and restaurants to visit. Alaska doesn’t have that kind of variety unfortunately haha.
I am very excited for your book review! and the DIY ornaments!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Siobhan!!!
We had a lot of freezing rain too! That’s usually what we get stuck with most of the time. That is an amazing DIY gift!!
Charlotte is a great spot! I love how it’s close to everything you could ever want! You may not have that variety in Alaska, but we don’t have the GORGEOUS scenery and wildlife like you do! I hope to visit Alaska!!
xo xo xo
Hannah says
I think those pants are so cute! Where are they from?
Taralynn McNitt says
They are from Versona!
nicole @ bento momentos says
Love that red top! And your dad’s donut joke. And that dish of chicken and quinoa. And that french toast. 🙂 Yes to the Christmas vlog! And no snow here in AZ… we’re still wearing t-shirts and shorts during the day time!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Nicole!
Leave it to dad to ALWAYS have the best “Dad jokes.” 😉
OMG! Must be nice though! Maybe that’s where I’ll plan my next winter trip to!!
Kelsey Lane says
All of your clothes are so cute! I also have that green parka coat and it’s so warm.
Yes! Do a vlog, please. Is it strange that I like the sound of your voice?
We had three inches of snow 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Kelsey!
I am in love with that Parka! 😀
Lol my boyfriend says that so I guess it’s not weird? hahaha I can’t wait to do some vlogs!!
Three inches of snow is the perfect amount!
Kyla Woelfle says
*We got some snow flurries, but that’s about it! I can’t wait for a real snow day! ❄️
*99% buying presents, but may throw in a couple DIY gifts!
*Yes to the Christmas Vlog!!
Taralynn McNitt says
I can’t either! We get it at least ONCE a year! lol
I think I’ll start planning my Christmas VLOG!
Anonymous says
Yes vlog!
Taralynn McNitt says
Looks like I’ll have to!
Chelsea @ Just Me Chelsea B. says
Sadly, no snow here in Arkansas! But, we were SO close to everyone else that did get snow this weekend! It looked so pretty!!
Oh my goodness, that town looks adorable!!! I absolutely love the town meeting/Gilmore Girl moment! How cute is that?! I didn’t know any towns really did such a thing, but that alone would make me fall in love with it! I’m a Gilmore Girls ADDICT! I’ve loved it for SO long and won’t be stopping anytime soon! 🙂
I love DIY Christmas presents! They always turn out so special!!
Definitely a Christmas blog!!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Chelsea!!
Lol It snowed all around you though! 😀
Lol it was totally a gilmore girls moment. I’ve bee n(recently) watching ALL of the seasons!
xo xo
Kelly says
It seems like you are into gift giving for Christmas. Would you ever consider a gift guide blog for the holidays?
I live in Wisconsin so YES we did get snow!
I love buying gifts but I do like to make some. I am making homemade chapstick with essential oils this year!
yes, a vlog sounds fun!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Kelly!
The only problem I have with gift guides is that my mom, brother, kyle, his mom, and everyone reads my blog! They’ll all know what I’m getting them lol I am also doing some gift baskets/diy things this year.
I bet you did!! burrrrrrrr
ohhhh that is awesome!
Kristin says
Where is your mom’s sweater from?? I am looking for one just like that!
Taralynn McNitt says
Lol funny story. She ordered it on Ebay for $12 for an ugly sweater party and I was like “MOM THATS NOT UGLY SWEATER WORTHY” so she got a new ugly sweater and now wears this one! It’s originally from Target!
Heather @ Polyglot Jot says
Wow I am so excited to try that so delicious yogurt with protein powder and then freezer trick!! Genius!!
Taralynn McNitt says
It’s soooooo goood. Speaking of, I need to hit the grocery store!
Melanie says
That is your mom? Seriously thought it was your sister or something!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hahaha! Nope that’s my pretty mom!
Deanna says
I know i’m not answering one of your questions, but can we talk about that insane episode of Dateline? At the beginning, I thought for sure the daughter had done it. The mom was crazy!
Taralynn McNitt says
OK, The mom was TOTALLY ON some kid of drug…She was LOOOOOOOONIE! I thought the daughter did it too!!
Peetie says
I love that parka!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you!:D
Anonymous says
Do you get sick in the stomach from all the coffee?
Taralynn McNitt says
Nope!
Kenzie says
The photo of Leo and Kyle is adorable. I’m confused though. Does Leo live with you? Does Kyle? lol Sorry
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks Kenzie! Kyle does not live with me and Leo does live with me! 🙂
Harriet says
Snow photos so amazing!! Also Waxhaw looks stunning. It’s summer here in New Zealand, so no snow for us but had a lake day water skiing etc . As I am going overseas for Christmas, everyone has got a gift card this year, but usually I get a little gift and do baking for everyone, I just wanted to make this year simple so I didn’t have to stress over gifts, plus I can post everything. A Christmas vlog would be amazing! Have an amazing week!!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Harriet!
I think you’d really love Waxhaw! Ahhhh your lake day sounds amazing! Glad you’re keeping it stress-free and simple this year! That is great! 😀
xo xo
Maximiliane says
We did get snow last weekend and are expecting snow again today with hypothermia warnings, so I’m definitely layering up! I did enjoy it though, especially when staying all cozy inside and watching it fall outside.
This year I’m doing a sort of mix of gifts. I’ve bought a few presents, but I also made some spiced nuts for my Dad, since he enjoys eating roasted nuts so much, and I had been thinking of making a Christmas collage for my brother. For friends I’ve made various little DIY things like bath salts and sugar scrubs so I can’t wait to give them that!
I would love to see a Christmas vlog!!! That would be so much fun to watch!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Maximiliane!!
Stay warm, but enjoy the snow! It’s fREEEEEEZING HERE but no snow so booooo.
That is cool that you’re making bath salts and sugar scrubs!!
xo xo I’ll for sure do one!
Brittany says
Ahhh I loved all of the snow pics! So cute! We definitely got some snow here in Chicago over the weekend and apparently it’s supposed to snow again tonight!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Brittany!! Hope you guys have a white Christmas!
Olivia says
I love the Garden Cafe! I live in Chester and went there after reading about it on your blog. It’s now been a favorite spot for the past two years. Have you met Teresa?
Taralynn McNitt says
The owner? She is the sweeeeeetest!!!
SisterSue says
Hi – How do you steam Quinoa?
Taralynn McNitt says
I actually buy Quinoa steam bags!
Erica says
Hi Taralynn!!
1. The hilarious thing is some of the southern states got snow before we did in Canada! I just woke up to our first snowfall in Nova Scotia, Canada and yes I may have let out a few shrieks of joy! I love snow but I wish it only lasted for one month. Our winters can be pretty bad sometimes. I love having snow at Christmas though!!
2. I pretty much am buying everything this Christmas. I like adding little person touches to my gifts though. My gram’s gift this year is a framed picture of us in this beautiful gold frame I found at Homesense. My sister recently started her own handmade ornament business so Im giving some of those for parts of my gifts also. Check her out at @janelleletters on instagram.
3. YES. I love reading your blog. I keep up with it weekly. It is so positive and real. I absolutely love that you love coffee as much as I do and you always give me motivation to workout! A Christmas vlog would be a great idea. 🙂
Much Love,
Erica
Emily says
Thanks for sharing your parka! I got mine in the mail and I’m totally obsessed.
Taralynn McNitt says
Great!!
Harley says
Haha! I can’t believe you sat on a donut.
Taralynn McNitt says
LOL!
Deane says
Crossroads is such a cute spot. I go there for coffee on Saturday mornings! I wish I could have ran into you!
Taralynn McNitt says
Maybe another Saturday! 😀 I’ll be back!
Ollie says
You and your mom are so fun! I loved the cooking videos 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Awwwww thank you!!!!!!
Natalija says
I meant to ask this for ages-are you planning to make a recipe/fitness book? It would be so amazing. Your recipes are great, images are perfect, advice has built up from your own experience,so I’d love love love to see it in print with loads of pictures,colours and drawings!