Happy Sunday, everyone! I just finished walking the dogs, and now I’m sitting here with my coffee listening to the birds. I love that I can finally open the windows and feel the fresh air flowing in. Since I have some peace and quiet time, I thought it would be a great time to finishing writing part two of my trip home to Iowa. It means so much to me that you guys enjoyed getting a glimpse into my hometown and time with family. I hope you enjoy part two just as much because this time I’m taking you back to where I grew up and taking you with me during our gettogether at Grandma’s! If you haven’t watched the part two video, it’s now live on my channel 😊
Before leaving Des Moines and heading to my hometown of Ottumwa, Iowa, I had to stop and grab a cappuccino for the road. I had asked a lot of you where I should stop for coffee while in Des Moines, and almost everyone said “Horizon Line Coffee!” I can see why. I love seeing these types of coffee shops pop up in the Iowa area. It’s the perfect spot to warm up during the cold Iowa winters, and I know I’ll have to stop in again when I’m back.
I think one of the things I loved most about this place (other than the coffee) was the kindness. I’m so used to walking into a coffee shop, ordering, and just walking out. It wasn’t like that there. After ordering my drink, I was asked about my day and the plans that I had. He continued to ask where I was from and made more small talk with me. The effort of human interaction is something you don’t get often, but I was quickly reminded of how important it is during that moment. If you are ever in the Des Moines area, make sure to stop into this coffee shop. It’s a Des Moines gem 💎
I ordered an almond milk cappuccino for the drive home. It was rainy and adding a coffee drink to the drive home just set the fall mood. I am one of those crazy traditional people that gets giddy with the small things in life.
I was especially excited to break in my new sherpa! I knew I wouldn’t be able to wear this in the south, so I smashed it into my suitcase. I bought this sweater at a small boutique when I was in Savannah. I found a similar one on an online boutique if you’re looking for one!
After stopping for our cappuccinos, we took off! I had to crack into the snacks on the way, and these Whole Food’s pineapples were perfection.
We had some time to kill before checking into the hotel, so stopped at Courtside Bar and Grill for side salads and my brother’s favorite, corn nuggets. I remember eating these all the time back in the day. Those and the mini tacos are on point! I think some of you can relate with me on this. I use to always judge a restaurant on their ranch, and the Courtside has the BEST ranch!
After getting checked into the hotel, my mom and I headed downtown. We stopped at the high school and took some photos!
We HAD to stop at Graham’s for the famous crunch cones and caramel apples.
Grahams is one of the most famous spots in Ottumwa. In the summer, the line can stretch all the way around the building. They always have a flavor of the week that you have to order crunch-cone style. I used to love going in the fall because of the caramel apples. My mom and I always split one after a day of shopping.
Another famous spot is the Canteen. We were bummed they were closed, but we’ll stop back on our next trip. This location of the canteen has been in business for 82 years! They are famous for their loose meat burgers, and in 1929, they only cost ten cents! A piece of pie was only five cents.
We headed to my grandma’s house for dinner around five. Grandma’s house hasn’t changed one bit, and that’s what makes it feel like home.
We used to LOVE coming to grandmas house as kids.
My grandpa built this swing. THIS was my favorite part about coming to grandmas! It went around and around like a carnival ride. I wish I had a video to show you how fun it was!
T.C. had to bring over the famous Casey’s pizza! The best pizza in Iowa comes from a gas station 😂
I brought my leftover food from Whole Foods to eat up. After dinner, we headed over to my aunt’s new church she bought. She’s been wanting to start a shelter in our hometown for so long, and she’s finally making it happen. It was so neat to tour the church and hear all about the plans!
My brother and I had so much fun with all the pianos. You’ll definitely want to watch the videos 😂
I loved listening to Kyle play my grandpas piano 💜
We were in bed super early on Sunday night and so exhausted. You can see it in my face. 😂We all went downstairs to have breakfast and spend some time together before we headed back to Charlotte.
Of course, I HAD to stop at a coffee shop before making the trip back to Des Moines to catch our flight. I was so impressed with Hub coffee, and it’s amazing to see this place in Ottumwa. In fact, I’m drinking the roast I bought from them right now! I wish this place were around when I lived in Iowa!
I ordered an almond milk latte with two extra shots of espresso. IT WAS PERFECTION!
We headed to the airport around eleven. My brother had to catch a flight before us. We had another rainy drive, but it was still very pretty.
I loved the rainy weekend because it set the fall mood. After dropping y brother off at the airport, we stopped at Whole Foods so Kyle could pick up some meals at the hot bar and I had a cup of vegetable chili for lunch.
I spent my flight time reading my book, sipping on diet coke (treat yo self), and snacking on peanut butter cups! I had such an amazing weekend, and my heart was so full. Although, I was SO EXCITED to see my pups. 💜
Questions for you!
- How do you like to spend your time on flights?
- What is a staple food in your hometown?
- What was the last thing you ordered at a coffee shop?
Elizabeth says
Your grandma’s house is such a cute place !
1. On flights, I like to listen to music and read a book. I try to sleep if I’m tired
2. My hometown is famous for the Chestnut month in October, there’s a fair and we have chestnut guilds ^^
3. It was a hot chocolate with a brownie : I’m glad cocoa is a must against anxiety XD
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Elizabeth!
It’s my dream home, especially with that front porch! 🏠 ❤️
My exact flight activities lol
That sounds like a dream!!! Sign me up.
That sounds delicious and perfect for the colder months !
Aneta says
You have a fantastic voice! That singing session with your brother was awesome!
Taralynn McNitt says
haha! thanks, Aneta
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says
Looks like you had such a fun time with your family, Taralynn! Love the fall-esque photos! 🙂
I like to read if I’m flying budget, but normally the flights I take have movies and TV shows and stuff… so I watch those instead 😉
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Charmaine!
Thanks so much for stopping by to read.
I agree! Reading on short flights or cheaper flights and movies on the longer flights! That’s all I did on my way to Hawaii!
❤️
Hannah says
Your trip looked like so much fun!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you, Hannah!
Liz says
Your Grandma’s house is so cute!
Your first question is perfect because I just got home from a trip to Ohio. I spend my time reading and on my last flight I slept.
A staple in my hometown is Eegee’s. If you ever come to Tucson, you have to try it!
I went to Dutch Bro’s a couple days ago and ordered an Iced Chai. My favorite!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Liz!
Her house is so cute and she does a great job with her flowers! ❤️ 👵
Those are two of my favorite things!
Kyle and I want to visit Tuscon next year, so we’ll add that to our list!!
mmmmm love chai!
Emily says
I loved reading all about Iowa! It reminds me of my home in Oklahoma! Oklahoma (in the larger cities at least) is getting some awesome foodie spots and coffee shops, but something “Oklahoman” all my friends want to do when they are in town is get pizza from this place called Hideaway. I am like you and love the little things that make me feel like fall/christmas/whatever type of season it is!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Emily!
Thank you for reading 😊
That pizza must be really good! Glad Oklahoma is getting some great foodie spots too! ❤️
Glad you also appreciate the small things!
Brooklyn Murtaugh says
Your grandma’s house is beautiful! So charming. I love that color.
That pizza looks delicious! I love how it’s from a gas station haha! Also how have a never heard of corn nuggets? They sound (and look) delicious!
http://www.justbeingbrooklyn.com
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Brooklyn!
I love the green. It brings back so many memories! 💜
Lol Iowa’s best pizza comes from a gas station and the best Chinese food comes from a grocery store! (HY-VEE)
They are so tasty!
Roland says
I didn’t know you could sing! How is it that everyone in your family is good looking and talented?
Taralynn McNitt says
Hahaha! It’s just for fun 😀 But thank you!!
Miriam Coppess says
Holy moly your grandma’s home is an absolute dream!
I don’t fly very often, but when I do, I usually spend the time reading and snacking!
My hometown just opened a Farm to Table restaurant which I am so excited about! It’s so good to see those things come to our hometowns.
And almond milk cappuccinos are my favorite too 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Miriam!
Yes it really is 😊
Best way to spend a flight!
Ohhhh love farm to table restaurants!
❤️☕️
Kate says
This was so fun to read! I lived in Ottumwa for about three years and worked for KTVO. I interviewed your dad all the time for Nights and Lights and other Chamber events. I remember he came in for an interview once and told me and my co-workers all about you and your blog and had us google it so we could follow! This was probably seven years ago or so now. He was so proud of you!!
Taralynn McNitt says
That is too funny! Small world for sure 😊 I’ll have to share this with my dad! xo
Cait Hoyler says
Hey Tara,
Loving the new addition of the vlogs! How do you choose your songs in your videos? I always love them. Your fam is always so cute.
1. I like to read or watch tv to distract myself (or more currently working on my new coming website!)
2. Hmmm I am originally from Buffalo, NY (currently living in Nashville) so…wings! lol
3. Last thing I ordered is the same as always: medium iced coffee with light almond milk. Simple and low cal 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Cait!
Thank you so much 😊 I just go through a library of royalty free music to pick and I see which one fits best!
1. Ahhh that’s so much fun! Congrats on the new site.
2. Ohhhhh yum!
3. Sounds like a great choice! ☕️
Kasia says
Hi!
Love you recaps so much!
I am just curious – do you add sugar/any sweetener to your coffee? I love the coffee sweet!
Love
Kasia
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Kasia!
I drink my coffee black but used to add sweetener!
As for my coffee shop drinks, i just do oat/almond/or coconut milk without sweetener 🙂
Chels says
Will you ever move back to Iowa?
Taralynn McNitt says
Not in the plans, but I’ll always visit 🙂
Jen says
I have a hard time reading on flights for some reason. I like to relax and listen to music. If it’s a longer flight, I like to bring non-tech activities like adult coloring books or Sudoku books to take a break between music and movies.
Having grown up so close to Hershey, PA, I’m going to have to go with chocolate on this one 🙂 But you’ll find a mecca of Polish, Dutch, and Irish comfort foods here as well.
I last had an iced almond milk macchiato with SF cinnamon dolce syrup from Starbucks. SO good!
Gotta say, for gas station pizza, Casey’s looks pretty good! 🙂 I especially love visiting my hometown in the fall, so these posts have been so fun to read!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Jen!
That sounds like a great way to spend your flight time!
Ohhhhh that sounds amazing!
I love the SF Cinnamon Dolce syrup. My friend, Becca, adds it to her Americanos!
Casey’s pizza is great. They have a great Taco pizza and macaroni and cheese pizza! 😆
Katie Meshko says
Loved reading both part 1 & 2 of your trip!!! It looks like you had such a good time!! So many cool places. Theres no place like home!! 🙂 Thanks for sharing with all of us. I love the gas station pizza! lol Such a fun quirk. Also you & Kyle are adorable!!! I am still in my home town and have been ever since I was born, but if I moved away and came back there is def a mexican restaurant and a local pizza joint that I would def go to if I visited!! Have a great week!!!!!
XO, Katie | http://www.meshkomoments.com
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Katie!
Thanks so much! ❤️ I really had a blast!! And you’re so right. There truly is no place like home!
Iowa’s best pizza comes from a gas station and the best Chinese food comes from a grocery store lol It’s always an Iowa joke!
I love how every town is known for at least one MUST pizza spot!
xo
Emily M says
Hy-Vee Chinese is where it’s at! <3
Taralynn McNitt says
YES!!!!! Gotta get the sesame chicken, orange chicken, lo mein, fried rice, and two crab rangoons!
Connie says
Your grandma’s house is adorable and I loved reading about your trip!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you so much, Connie!
Ali says
You didn’t even mention what looks like the best part of your grandma’s house – that pot roast! Gosh, it looks so amazing! I can’t believe you passed that up for leftovers! You and Kyle are so dedicated to health. I’m impressed! And I can’t believe your brother ate pizza instead of pot roast… y’all are crazy, haha! 😉
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Ali!
My brother has been a pescetarian for eight years so he doesn’t eat pot roast. I LOVE pot-roast but the packet of soup mix that goes into it has gluten and dairy which makes me sick to my stomach and I also avoid because of my endometriosis/skin. Kyle did eat the pot roast and loved it. I actually love pot roast and make a similar version at home without the soup mix now. The recipe is actually on my blog.
♥️
Katie says
Girl you had an ice cream (dairy) cone (gluten) earlier that day. Doesn’t seem like your sensitivity is so bad you can’t indulge occasionally, like when grandma is making you food! I just felt sad for her.
Taralynn McNitt says
I didn’t have an ice cream cone, I had several bites of the caramel apple. My mom ordered the crunch cone. I wanted to showcase a great part of my hometown in the post/video and including Grahams was apart of it. There were over 20 people at my grandma’s house and hardly any roast left. I don’t think it really mattered that I didn’t eat it. Gluten makes me sick and so does dairy and so I avoid it at all costs. I have for over a year now.
Jessica O'neil says
Don’t defend yourself over something so silly. Do you, Taralynn.
Taralynn McNitt says
♥️
Ali says
Jessica, I hope you aren’t talking about my comment, because there was nothing I said that she needed to defend herself against. I was actually impressed that she and Kyle are so dedicated to their health that they passed up her grandma’s pot roast that looked awesome. I don’t have that kind of self control. I totally would’ve eaten the roast!
Krista says
This post is the sweetest! That’s so cool about your aunt starting a shelter. Usually, when I’m stuck on a long flight, I’ll either sleep or listen to a podcast. On our last trip, my husband thought it was hilarious that I could sleep through just about anything! 😛 Right now, I’m loving the Goal Digger podcast.
My hometown is kind of known for Christmas tree farms and apple picking and lots of parents who work in NYC, but I guess you could say that it’s famous for apples. We never really went as kids– it was always kinda pricy and super packed– there were tons of out-of-staters (Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, and even Rhode Island) coming to pick apples and get trees and pumpkins. Nonetheless, it made for a great part time job senior year of high school! 🙂
The last thing I ordered from a coffee shop, however, would be the peach iced tea/lemonade drink at Starbucks! I’ve decided to cut coffee and preworkout once and for all (as much as I say that, lol) to try to sleep better, so it’s pretty legit!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Krista!
Thank you so much! 😊
My aunt MM works with people in need and the homeless every day and what she does is incredible! When I’m super tired, I can also sleep on a plane! I did that on my trip home from Hawaii!
Oh, man! I need to move to your hometown lol Sounds like my dream.
You are a strong lady for doing that! I’ve tried to cut it so many times but only last an hour into the morning! I do try to cut my afternoon coffee when I’m not traveling! That helps me a lot.
xoxo thanks for stopping by to comment!
IVY says
Looks like you had a blast! Your hometown looks like something off Main Street USA, I love it!!
Is your brother still dating his girlfriend or is he single now??
Taralynn McNitt says
It’s the cutest little town for sure and even better when sunny!!
Danielle says
The video was hilarious! I love seeing your personality come out more.
Taralynn McNitt says
Aw, thanks Danielle!
Amanda says
I adored these last two posts. I love seeing where people came from and seeing the places, things and people that made them who they are. Iowa looks like a pretty great place! 🙂
When I have a long flight coming up, I stockpile new episodes of my regular shows. Instead of watching them regularly, I download episodes onto my phone to watch on my flight. I love having my complimentary diet coke and pretzels and watching my shows, I have no idea why but it feels almost luxurious to me lol!
A staple in my hometown is absolutely 100% a rink burger! I grew up in a population 450 village in the middle of Canada and we are a hockey town. We live at the hockey rink in winter and nothing tastes more like home than a rink burger!
Last thing I ordered was an almond milk americano misto with sugar free camarel. Yuuuuum.
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Amanda!
Thanks so much 😃
Lol, so funny! I had my complimentary diet coke as well! gotta treat yo self!
that is awesome!! a rink burger sounds intense and delicious!
Jenna says
I usually listen to music and I try to read but I ALWAYS fall asleep.
I would have to say Key Lime Pie they have a little shop in Cocoa Beach and it is just phenomenal. But we also have Viera Pizza which is gas station pizza and it is BOMB!
Last thing I ordered at a coffee shop was at Starbucks and I got a tall PSL and a puppacino for the pupper!
Taralynn McNitt says
I love it when I can sneak a few Zzzs on a plane!
Sounds so delicious!
Ahhhhhh I love the puppacinos for the pups!
Jenna says
Puppacinos and pupcups are the best things. I love that so many businesses are starting to cater to our pups!
Taralynn McNitt says
Me too!!
courtney says
loool, did Kyle eat all of his meals from Whole Foods during the trip? If I was there, I would have tried a loose meat sandwich. I’ve been hearing about Iowa’s famous loose meat sandwiches for years, and have to try one for myself… or go to Iowa, haha. Like sloppy joe’s, but without the sauce? I have to try it. My town/area is famous for lobsters, which is not a bad thing to be famous for!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Courtney!
Ha. It looked like that but, no. Kyle eats like six times a day so we just bought extra meals for him to have on the trip. I felt bad that the canteen was closed because their loose meat burgers are the best. They are just simple loose meat and nothing fancy about it! I think the addition of the pickles and onions add that special touch.
Emily M says
Hey fellow Iowa girl here.
Honestly, I am not a very good flyer. In June when I flew to Cali I spent the whole time sick 🙁 So, I usually do not fly.
My favorite place to go in my home town is Big Beve’s . They have the BEST sandwich. Big Beve’s Supreme. So not healthy, but… It is 4 slices of bread and 2 hamburger patties stacked with fries covered in their homemade cheese sauce. Manson, Iowa is known for this. I will treat myself to a half once in a while. I also love Caseys Pizza nothing beats it!
I do not, nor have I ever drank coffee so I never have a need to go there.
Thanks for featuring Iowa in your blog, Especially Des Moines where my bother lives. <3
I have been following you since undressed skeleton.
God Bless
Emily
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Emily!
Yay for Iowa 🌾
Big Beve’s sounds awesome!
❤️
Samantha Bunker says
Ooh my gosh, I forgot about Casey’s pizza!! People out West just don’t get it. “You mean it’s sold at gas stations and it’s….good?” You’d be surprised!!
Also, I love carmel apples in the Fall! The little popcorn shop I worked at when I was 16 made carmel apples in September and October and they were to DIE for. Reading your post makes me want to order some!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Samantha!
Hahahaha! Casey’s pizza is out of this world! SO GLAD YOU understand!
mmmmm now I’m craving another caramel apple!!!
Susie @ Mile High Dreamers says
Seeing your grandma’s house made me so happy :). Sadly all of my grandparents have passed away, but I’m lucky enough that Ben’s grandparents treat me like their own grandchild and I get ALL of the grandparent feels at their house. There’s honestly nothing like that love!
I LOVE when I get to watch movies on flights! I never watch them otherwise so it’s definitely a treat haha. I also read and blog!
Hmmmm a staple food in Boulder… Kale??? Just kidding. But definitely organic and unique lol.
Last thing I ordered was hot tea and a brownie! Going to a coffee shop where they make an effort to know you makes ALL the difference. That’s why I am so gung-ho about supporting small local businesses. You don’t get that same feeling at the big stores!
Thanks for sharing your adorable family with us!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Susie!
That is so wonderful that you have Ben’s family and get to experience that love ♥️ Truly nothing like it! You’re right.
Yes, both great ways to pass the time! I always say I’m going blog on a flight, but it rarely happens lol
I bet you guys have the best farmer’s markets!
ohhhhh yum!!! I agree! I love seeing all the local businesses pop up around here! xo xo xo
Kelsey W. says
Hi Taralynn! It looks like you had an amazing trip with your family <3 your grandma’s house looks like the most quintessential grandma’s house ever! So cute! When I’m on flights, I usually listen to my Spotify app and read a book. I can never fall asleep on planes (my nerves get the best of me) so I love watching out the window and seeing the landscape change throughout the trip! The staple food in my hometown of Baltimore is DEFINITELY steamed crabs with old bay seasoning. Have you ever had that? It’s been a while since I’ve been to a coffee shop, but the last time was in Berkeley Springs, West Virginia. I ordered an iced caramel coffee with almond milk and a “new york state of mind” sandwich which was an everything bagel, cream cheese, onion, tomato, and capers which I love! I hope you have a great week!
Xoxo Kelsey
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Kelsey!
It’s crazy how cute her house is and it’s been in the family for so many years. A book or podcast can be the best way to take your mind off flying.
Crabs in Baltimore? YES YES YES. I actually did crab cakes when I was in Baltimore! My dad always does steamed crabs at Christmas with old bay seasoning! ♥️ 🦀
That sounds like the perfect coffee shop order!
Kristen says
You should consider doing some sort of food photography (like for restaurant websites, ads, etc). I think you’d do well
Taralynn McNitt says
That’d be fun!
Jessie says
AH, so many posts to catch up on, I usually read during down time at work, but there hasn’t been any recently!
How do you like to spend your time on flights?
I discovered the Libby app earlier this year, it let’s you check out library books on your phone & then read them, even offline. I don’t have an e-reader, and this is perfect because I can read on the plane without dragging lots of books around! Sometimes I’ll play a game, or on an international flight I’m all about sipping on some wine & watching a movie!
What is a staple food in your hometown?
Let’s see – we’ll call Cincinnati close enough to be my hometown. And their staple food would have to be a 3-way. Cincinnati has their own style of chili, it’s more like a meat sauce, as you’d never eat a bowl of it. Anyways, a 3-way is spaghetti noodles, a layer of chili & shredded cheese on top. SO GOOD. And everyone has their favorite chili parlor.
What was the last thing you ordered at a coffee shop?
Sadly the last thing I got was a Pumpkin Spice Latte from Starbucks and it was BLAH. I hadn’t had one in a year or two and it was NOT GOOD.
But, I’m headed to Prague, Vienna & Budapest soon & they’re supposed to have amazing coffee culture, so, luckily I’ll have a new answer to that question soon!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Jessie!!
You’ve been all over lately, but i love keeping up with you! Espeically your Insta-Rants…MY FAVE!
That is an awesome app! i’ll have to check that one out.
Well, I need to make a trip to your hometown!!! SOUNDS AMAZING!
THE PSL didn’t impress me much this year, so I just stick to my go-to and sometimes add pumpkin spice seasoning when I get home! The PSL I ordered had a weird aftertaste.
Um..take me with you!?!?
Misha says
Girl!! You look so beautiful and happy in these pictures. And I LOVE your highlights, it suits you so well!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you so much, Misha!!!
Stacy Leigh says
Have you ever had Casey’s breakfast pizza? Oh boy now that’s good stuff. We usually have that at work at the end of each month. We always look forward to it lol.
Taralynn McNitt says
We used to always get it before tailgaiting!
Nichole says
OMg Stacy! I talk about Casey’s breakfast pizza and people look at me like I’m crazy haha.
Hannah says
Your hair looks so long!
Taralynn McNitt says
It’s due for a trim!
Danielle says
Loved reading part 2 just as much as part 1! And loved the video too! It was so nice reading about where you grew up. Your grandma’s house is so cute! Also, where do you get your jeans from? I love the ripped knee look but never know where to find them that isn’t crazy expensive!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Danielle!
Thanks so much 😊 Those jeans are from American Eagle! I got them a few years back.
Meghan says
Looks like you had a great time! Going back to your hometown can feel so great & nostalgic, especially when you haven’t been there for a while! I normally read or sleep on a flight, and will ocassionally watch a movie. My hometown is known for cudighis, which are similar to an italian sausage patty but with some more spices. they are usually broiled or grilled and then served on a toasted bun with mozzarella cheese, pizza sauce, mushrooms, green peppers and onions. They are to die for! It’s also known for pizza from a little hole in the wall bar, it comes on a SUPER thin crust and the cheese actually goes on before the sauce and toppings. There are a lot of italians where I grew up! The last thing I ordered at a coffee shop was an almond milk chai! Also don’t blame you one bit for passing up on the roast & the crunch cones haha I’ve developed an awful dairy sensitivity as I got older, so I also need to pass up on things I used to once love. It sucks, but family understands and I’m sure would rather have you avoid the food and be able to spend time with them than eat it and have to spend the day laying down or in the bathroom!! haha
Taralynn McNitt says
Definitley!
Sounds like my plane routine as well. It all depends on how long the flight is!
Your homtown cudighis sound awesome! Definitly a dish my dad would LOVE!
I love almond milk chais! I had one the other day at a coffee shop here! ♥️ ☕️
Yes! You’re right. I think what made my mom understand my sensitiy more was showing her what it did to my body. When we had a trip to Biltmore, I showed my mom my stomach before dinner. During dinner, I had a bite of a bean cake that had bread crumbs and a bite of her salad that had dairy, and a bite of milk chocolate for dessert. When we got back to the hotel, I showed her what my stomach looked like and it seriously looked six months pregnant and I was in so much pain. She finally understood why I avoid those foods. I don’t think dairy or gluten is unhealthy at all and I would LOVE LOVE LOVE to be able to eat it, I just physcially can’t. I was giving it up for endometriosis until I realized it was what was caushing my discomfort all along!
Jeni says
It sounds like you had a great time visiting your family! Your aunt is doing such an amazing service to the community by turning the church into a shelter. Also, I’m so jealous that you got to experience fall weather– I moved from MN to VA (not too far from you!) and we still have 70-80 degree days. I miss sweater weather!
1. I always use flights as an excuse to catch up on all the great movies that I normally wouldn’t have time to watch! I flew a lot for med school interviews last year, so I definitely watched my share of good movies!
2. That’s a tough question! I’d have to say once HyVee came to the Twin Cities the store developed a cult-like following! People would commute from WI just to have the HyVee experience, which was pretty entertaining. Harris Teeter is almost as good but it has nothing on HyVee!
3. There’s this coffee shop where a lot of us M1’s like to study and listen to live music. Their menu always changes, but lately I’ve been getting either their vanilla thyme lattes or lavender London Fog.
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Jeni!
It really was a great time, and yes! She’s an amazing person and always helping out the community! I can’t wait to see her vision come to life.
A cold front will be coming our way soon! I feel it lol
A great excuse for movies for sure!
Hahahaha that’s hilarious! We went to HyVee every dang day as kids! Oh…and their chinese…yum!
Ohhh sounds amazing!! Lavendar Longdon Fog? Sign me up!
Brit says
Your grandma is my neighbor!
Taralynn McNitt says
WHat??!? Such a small world!
Alina @ Orgali Holistic Nutrition says
Awesome vlog! What song was Kyle playing on the piano?
Taralynn McNitt says
He played several different ones! He was playing the Twilight song at one point lol
Micki Lipe says
OMG! Pizza from Casey’s is #1 in Small town, Missouri too!!
Taralynn McNitt says
THE BEST!!
Quinn says
Your Grandma’s house is so cute.
Taralynn McNitt says
Isn’t it!!
Kelsey says
Hey! This is a delayed comment but what skincare do you use? You look so gorgeous without makeup!