Good morning, everyone. I feel like every time I sit down to write; it’s cold and rainy outside. I guess it’s a blessing in disguise. Before I begin today’s blog post, I want to shout out to all who have served, currently serving, and have made the ultimate sacrifice to defend our freedom and keep us safe. Thank you and happy Veterans Day. ❤️
I feel like it’s been a minute since I’ve had a real recap post up on the blog. I debated on posting another Disney travel blog + video today, but I know a lot of you guys enjoy the recaps, so I pushed that to later this week. I love recaps because I get to check-in, keep it real, and show you guys what I’ve been up to lately. I always feel like I’m chatting with friends and I never want to steer away from them as I continue to blog. I always promised myself to stick to what I enjoy and never fall under the pressure of too many polished posts.
I was up bright and early on Monday morning. I wanted to get a few things done on the blog before heading to the airport to fly home. Around noon, I went down to grab another a cappuccino, some overnight oats to go, and then headed to the airport. I started to read on my flight, but could not focus on anything. I ended up listening to music and staring out the window for an hour and a half.
When I left the airport, I stopped at Chopt to pick up some salads and wraps for my family. Kyle was out of town on Monday, so my parent’s watched the boys for us. They stopped by to bring them over, and we hung out chatting about the trip and enjoying our delicious food. I love getting Chopt salads because I can eat them for a couple of days. They are always so big!
After dinner, I unpacked and then got ready for bed. I couldn’t wait to fall asleep with the pups! I love traveling, but there’s nothing like your own bed.
I spent all day on Tuesday editing the travel video and Disney blog! I still have part 2 and 3 to work on, but I’ll finish those later today. I snacked on random things all day and ate leftovers for dinner. I joined Kyle at the gym on Tuesday evening and did some sprint work. My sprints are usually 8.5 speed, jogs at 6.0, and my walks at 3.5 with a 5.2 incline. The jogs and sprints aren’t inclined at all.
After walking the dogs on Wednesday morning, I decided to pull my Chemex out and make some coffee. I hadn’t used it in a while, and it makes the best coffee. I had an early phone call, so I sat on the porch enjoying my coffee.
After my call, I had another cup of coffee and made some oatmeal for breakfast. I always mix in a scoop of protein powder for a protein source. I ended up adding cinnamon and raisins as well. I always use the Happy Rolled Oats.
I finally made it to the grocery store later in the afternoon. I picked up ingredients to make salads, chili, and some of my favorite snacks.
I headed to the gym with Kyle on Wednesday evening. I did a three-mile walk on the treadmill but kept it slow because I was sore from the sprints I did on Tuesday.
I thought I’d get extra festive after blogging about the Magic Kingdom, so I made my funfetti pancakes into Micky Mouses. They were a bit of a disaster, but still tasty. I used the Birch Blender paleo pancake mix with water, sprinkles, and protein powder. I love the “fit” Garden of Life because it has 28g of protein per serving. This is a great recovery meal after the gym!
On Thursday, I did some recipes for the blog (coming soon) and made a batch of chili to eat for the weekend. This is my favorite go-to chili recipe! I’ve had it twice a day for the past four days, and I can’t wait to have it again for dinner. It’s healthy, gluten-free, dairy-free, and can be made in 30-minutes. You can also make it vegan by leaving out the turkey.
I did a very exciting thing on Friday. I finally bought a new sectional, and I’m so excited for it to get here. I do love “big grey,” but it’s time for it to go. I have a charity group picking it up soon. My new couch is on backorder until December 5th, and I’m counting down the days until it arrives. I’ve wanted a new couch for a year now, and I finally found one that will work. I was looking for a specific style, size, material, and color, and found it. That means I’m going to have to change a few things in my living room. I’m thinking the gold mirror, and gold lamps may have to get a makeover…we’ll see!
Once it gets here, I’ll do a big reveal! (probably during Vlogmas!)
After furniture shopping, I had lunch with my parents at Hickory Tavern. I ordered a spring mix salad with egg, grilled chicken, walnuts, cranberries, and avocado. I also celebrated my couch purchase with a glass of wine. Is that weird? lol
When I got home, I brought the pups two new toys. They get so excited about toys, and they end up ripping them apart and playing in the stuffing. It’s the weirdest thing, but it makes them happy. These poor little piggies 😞 I always buy stuffed animals that are eco-friendly and made with all-natural materials just in case they eat some of the pieces (which they do.)
Kyle and I met my parents out at the Garden Cafe, one of our favorite places to have dinner. We wanted to treat them to a little Veterans dinner to show them our appreciation. Plus, it was their 32-year anniversary! I’ve blogged about the Garden Cafe several times, but it’s truly a magical place that I love going to. I love the cozy lights, the southern feel, the delicious food, and everything about it. I also love how festive they get around the holidays. If you’re ever in the Charlotte area, you must make the drive out to this place. It’s about 35-minutes from the city, but so worth it! Just make sure to make a reservation.
I ordered the seared salmon with green beans and rice pilaf. As always, everything tasted perfect. It was such a fun night with them! Saturday mornings are for tennis! 🎾 I was excited to get back out and play. Not going to lie, it was freezing. My hands were so frozen, but after a few games I finally warmed up.
This photo cracked me up. But no way I’m going to let any ball get behind me haha!
When I got home, I warmed up with one of my favorite drinks right now! I’m a huge fan of the peppermint mocha latte at Starbucks, but I’ve found a way to enjoy it at home. This version is a bit lighter, a whole lot cheaper, and it tastes the same! I froth my oat milk, add two shots of espresso, and three tablespoons of the Califia Farms Dairy-Free Mint Cocoa almond creamer. I’ve actually frothed the creamer with the oat milk several times, which works fine as well. I can’t get enough of this drink! Speaking of my favorite holiday Starbucks drinks, I want to make some healthier versions for Vlogmas!
For lunch, I heated my favorite chili and topped it with Kite-Hill Chive cream “cheese” and Simple Mills Multi-Grain crackers. Ohhhhhhh the deliciousness!
After lunch, Kyle and I took Grumples for a long walk and then took Leo to Lucky Dog Brewery. He does so well with other dogs, so we wanted to socialize him a bit. I had a strawberry Lenny Boy kombucha while Leo played. I want to take him here more to get him more “social.” He hid behind my legs a lot even though you could tell he wanted to play. He would start to run around with a dog and then come right back seconds later. We’ll work on it 😃
Later in the evening, I had a bowl of strawberries and blueberries topped with my favorite protein fruit dip. The fruit dip is coconut milk yogurt mixed with protein powder and drizzled with honey. This is a delicious combo and perfect for late-night snacking. I was still full from my chili, so it was a nice light dinner.
I could not get warm and had a headache, so I decided to take a hot bubble bath, and it seemed to do the trick. I love to do a mint face mask while I’m in the bath to open up my sinus to help with seasonal headaches.
After my bath, I popped some popcorn and watched Julia Robert’s new show, Homecoming. It’s a good show, but I don’t LOVE it. When I posted it on Instagram, I had a lot of people tell me how much they loved it and how many peopled didn’t care for it. Kyle thought it was decent; my mom was in love with it, so I think it’s one of those shows that you’ll have to judge for yourself!
I was really excited for Sunday because Becca and I scheduled the whole day to hang out. It’s so hard now that we live almost an hour away from each other. We had breakfast at Le Peep in the Arboretum. I ordered an egg-white omelet with spinach, tomatoes, onions, and peppers. I also had a gluten-free waffle and fresh fruit on the side.
After breakfast, we did some serious thrift shopping. I can’t wait to show you what I found! I also picked up some fun crafts for Christmas at Michaels 😃 Seriously, when can I decorate? haha!
After spending hours walking around shops, we stopped at Starbucks for some delicious treats. I ordered a skinny mocha cappuccino with an extra shot of espresso. I usually add peppermint, but I’m going to stick to my homemade peppermint mocha lattes for now! Becca and I were talking about how every time we hang out, it’s either freezing or extremely hot. But to be honest, I’m happy it’s finally sweater weather! I know I’ll be changing my mind by the end of January.
Fall in the Carolinas! 🍂
I left Becca’s around 4 pm and headed back to my house. When I got home, the house was spotless! Kyle went on a power cleaning spree, so I think I’m going to leave more often. He did the same when I came home from Disney. I think I’m getting the hint 😉
I ended my Sunday night with a big bowl of chili by the fireplace. I watched some shows, and then got started on this recap post! Oh, it feels good to be back in the swing of things! ❤️ I hope you all have a fantastic week.
Questions for you!
- When do you put up your Christmas (holiday) decorations?
- Have any of your family members served? are serving? (Happy Veteran’s day to them!)
- What’s your favorite holiday drink?
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says
My family tend to participate in decorating our home for Christmas year on, year off. We live in a TINY apartment (300 sq ft?), so we don’t really have any storage space for a tree – real or fake – or decorations. If we’re not decorating for Christmas (which seems like the case this year), we just go out to see all the public lights and decor! 🙂
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Charmaine!
I bet you have the best decorations all around and not decorating is a good excuse for you to get out and explore! xo
Erin G says
Do you remember when So Delicious made a mocha mint almond milk? (Not creamer) I loved using that with my coffee but haven’t been able to find it this year!
So like you, I don’t usually drink (even though you had a glass of wine this recap, yay!) but what about Kyle? My husband has two beers almost every night lol
Taralynn McNitt says
Yes! I bet they’ll have it back late November!
Nope, Kyle doesn’t drink at all. I think I’ve seen him drink one beer the entire time we’ve dated, but that’s his choice and he seems very happy about it! 😊 I have a glass of wine now and then, but rarely. I’m worse, I crave dessert more than alcohol lol
Stacie says
My relationship is the same way…my boyfriend almost never drinks. I also almost never drink (once a month or once every two months, maybe), but I will splurge occasionally when i’m out with my girlfriends. But I tell people I have other “vices” and those are DESSERTS! I’d rather have dessert than a glass of wine and i’m okay with that.
Taralynn McNitt says
Yup! It’s all about preference. I will say that wine and dark chocolate do taste great together 😉
Hannah says
How many glasses of wine would you say you have a month?
Taralynn McNitt says
Well, usually zero. I don’t give myself a limit or tell myself I can’t have it, I just don’t really crave it. I just have it when I want it which is like five times a year lol
Miriam says
Ahhh it’s never too soon to start decorating for Christmas to me! My brother and sister in law both served/serve, and I am so thankful! I love the peppermint mochas from Starbucks as well. I opt for coconut milk or almond milk instead and half the amount of syrup. It works great for a special treat! Love your homemade ones and can’t wait to try them! Thank you!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Miriam!
I think you’re right 😉 🎄
Send them my thank you’s! Happy Veteran’s Day to them!
I do the same when I’m out and about but with an extra shot of espresso and only half the peppermint syrup! 😊
Anonymous says
I like peppermint as well- in coffee and cocoa ❤️💜.
I am currently not drinking dairy milk and haven’t tried many alternatives except almond milk and almond+coconut milk blend. Where do you get the oat milk and does it have a strong flavor?
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi! I get the oatmilk on Amazon. It just tastes like super creamy milk!
Kiera says
I’m team “one month of holiday joy is just not enough” so I started putting up some string lights this weekend to make it feel extra cozy indoors! My boyfriend let me blast Christmas music but shot down my attempts to put up the tree already hehe I have all our decorations laid out in the guest room ready to go! Maybe next weekend I’ll be able to go into full on decorating mood!
Taralynn McNitt says
I love how you think! 😉
I may do that soon, but need my boyfriend’s help getting in the attic lol
I am DEF going full on by next weekend! That way when I get back from Florida for Thanksgiving, my house is already decorated!
Alyssa says
Love that sweater you wore on your day with Becca!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Alyssa!
H&M!
Patricia says
So excited to see what you got thrifting! I’ve recently got into it and I go so often that my fiance thinks I have a problem lol. Ohhh well we can’t all be perfect. Speaking of perfect though, Kyle…cleaning the house while you’re gone? Hold. onto. him.
Taralynn McNitt says
Haha! I love cleaning, but he’s like me X10000!!
Audrey Cason says
Love you vlog ❤ we decorated our entryway last night [using a mini Christmas tree] but when we get our real tree it will go there and tge mini tree will go up in my girls room. ❤ I’ve added a few things here and there. We normally do our big tree after Thanksgiving. ❤ you look so gorgeous in your beautiful fall outfit. ❤🍁🍂🍁🍂
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you, Audrey!
Love that you’re easing your way into decorating!
Thank you for the kind words!!
Kelsey W. says
Since it’s our first Christmas in the new house and celebrating Christmas together, we decided to wait until Black Friday to start decorating. I don’t mind because I just recently made a gorgeous fall wreath that I’m hanging proudly so I want to enjoy that a little longer! Do you guys get a real tree or a fake tree? I want a real tree so badly, but with two crazy kitties now, we are going to have to get a fake one. My favorite holiday drink was at my grandpa’s house last year–some kind of red sangria with fresh cranberries and orange slices! I hope you have a great week! xoxo Kelsey
Taralynn McNitt says
That’s a great time to start decorating! You’ll have plenty of new gifts to put under the tree!
I always use my fake tree! We never had a real one growing up and I’m too lazy! lol I love my fake tree! Our cats used to go up our tree too! I think there is a spray you can buy that they hate.
oHHHH that sounds so good!!!!
Aileen says
My husband is an army vet, so I made him brownies last night. Thanks for recognizing the tough times in California right now– I’m not facing the brunt of it here in San Diego, but I can tell you we’re all sick from breathing in smoke combined with the Santa Ana winds.
I wanted to tell you that I made your chili last night as part of my Sunday meal prep! SO GOOD! I used a combo of ground turkey and hot Italian sausage for added spice, and added pasilla peppers. I’ll be eating this all week!
I LOVE peppermint mochas but I haven’t seen the Califia mint cocoa yet- only the egg nog version. Will absolutely try that when I see it. Thanks! Love your recaps. 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Aileen!
Thank you so much to your husband for serving! ❤️ 🇺🇸 My brother is in SoCal right now as well and he said it’s pretty bad. Sending prayers your way!!
I’m happy you made my chili! That makes me smile 😊 I’m still eating mine and just had it for lunch!
I LOVE their eggnog version. I’m going to do a fun dairy-free eggnog review soon! Gotta wait until they all come out! xo
Have a great week!
xo
Jenna says
I like to decorate the day after Thanksgiving (or that weekend) one of our neighbors starts decorating on Thanksgiving and he goes ALL out, it’s so awesome.
No one in my immediate family served, but friends have.
I love the peppermint mocha frappucino SO GOOD.
My dog loves to destroy stuffed toys too. It looked like it snowed in my house the other night because she killed her stuffed kangaroo.
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Jenna!
That is so fun!! I can’t wait to decorate. I know i’ll be doing it this weekend for sure!
Thanks to your friends! xo
mmmmmm I bet I can make a frape version at home! I’ll have to try that tomorrow!
lol it’s a mess but they LOVE doing it 😉
Jenna says
In the past few days she’s just been tearing up toys that have stuffing, so we have a target bag FULL of the cotton just to pick it up when it happens. I could make another stuffed animal with all the stuffing we have. But then she would destroy it and we would be back at square one.
Taralynn McNitt says
That is too funny!
Anonymous says
Oh please keep the gold mirror and lamps!!! They are my favorite pieces in your home! They keep it classic.
Taralynn McNitt says
If they look good with my new couch I will!
V says
Hi Taralynn!
Quick question: what book are you reading in the bath tub picture? I just read the title of the chapter “Building a relationship with yourself” and was curious, definitely feel like I would enjoy reading something like that!
Taralynn McNitt says
It’s actually called “All Men Are Jerks” lol It was given to me in a gift like five years ago and it’s actually really good! Great tips for women:)
Sara says
Is it weird that I’ve been refreshing your YouTube for new videos every day? I love them lady
Taralynn McNitt says
That just makes me so happy!!!
Danielle says
I started putting up Christmas decorations November 1st haha and just finished this past week. I told my roommates I was going all out, don’t think they believed me until it was finished. My favorite holiday drink is just black coffee with peppermint mocha coffee creamer. Although, I’ve been looking for an alternative because the brand of creamer I buy is about as far from healthy as it gets, definitely going to have to try the almond milk one! As always, love your recap posts! Thanks for doing what you do, such a huge inspiration! Hope you have a fantastic week! 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
That is awesome! lol, Your roommates are probably lovin’ it!
Sounds like a good holiday drink to me!! Yes, get the Califia farms one!! You’ll love it!!
Thanks for the kind words, Danielle!! xo xo xo
Samantha Bunker says
We have a strict “no Christmas in the house until the day after Thanksgiving” rule. My husband and my tradition has always been that on our drive home from wherever we had our Thanksgiving dinner we can officially turn on Christmas music. The only difference is this year we might be in the hospital on Thanksgiving…I’m due with our first baby in the next week or so, so we’ll see!
I’ve been seeing that Homecoming show but I wasn’t sure if it was worth it. My husband and I just started Bodyguard last night and so far we love it! It’s definitely been keeping our attention. I think you mentioned you and Kyle watched that too?
Taralynn McNitt says
I lived by that rule until last year! I love coming home after my Thanksgiving trip to a house filled with Christmas decor lol But you’re doing it the right way and “eating the damn turkey first” as my dad would say haha!
AHHH You’re going to have the BEST LITTLE TURKEY ever!!! I’ll keep you in my prayers for a safe and easy delivery! How exciting!
Lol yes! He did watch Bodyguard and loved it! I think I fell off on the last few episodes!
Michaela says
Love your recaps like always
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you 😀
Anne says
I usually hold off decorating for Christmas until Black Friday. Halloween is my favorite holiday but during the dark, cold months I live for mini lights, cinnamon pine oil melts, and instrumental holiday music every-single-night. I have a few veterans in my family, husband included. And my favorite holiday drink is a chocolate chai latte. 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
I agree! I think Christmas brings so much happiness to those darker nights! Please thank your husband for me!!
i love a good chai!
Jenna says
I love your recaps! Where is that sweater from?
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Jenna!
It’s from h&m!
Anastasia says
I cannot wait to make that chili! Chili and cornbread are my staples in the Fall. Chili makes the perfect leftovers!
1. We always put up our Christmas decorations on Black Friday only because my parent’s house looks like Fall threw-up everywhere until Thanksgiving 🙂
2. So thankful for the kind people like your parents and brother who have served/are serving our country! <3
3. Favorite fall drink is anything peppermint mocha so I will have to try that Califia Farms creamer!
Have a wonderful week!!
P.S. I love that striped sweater!!!! So cute!!!
P.P.S I cannot wait for VLOGMAS!!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Anastasia!
It really does make the best leftovers! I hope you enjoy my recipe 😃
Hahaha that’s too funny! Sounds like you have some festive parents!
♥️ 🇺🇸
If you love the peppermint mocha latte, you MUST try the at-home one!
& thank you!! Sad they sold out, but they have it in a couple different colors!
ALSO IM SO EXCITED FOR VLOGMAS TOO!!
B says
What boots are you wearing?
Taralynn McNitt says
The booties? They are from Steve Madden, but like three years ago!
Annie says
Even after you cut back on coffee, I can never read your blog without a steaming cup in my hand!
Taralynn McNitt says
I LOVE that! 😊
Courtney says
Loved the post! Your chili looks amazing and I am super excited to try it out.
1. I have a rule about decorating for Christmas… it needs to be after Thanksgiving. I am all about Christmas and I can’t wait to start decorating, but I have to enjoy Thanksgiving and the remainder of Fall first!
2. Both of my grandfathers served in WWII in the Navy. My mom’s dad was a radar-man on a Naval destroyer, and my dad’s dad worked on landing strips out in the pacific. I’m am so proud of them!
3. I am actually a barista at Starbucks and a full time nursing student. My favorite holiday drink would probably be the peppermint mocha as well. I usually stick with lighter and less sugary drinks, but it’s nice to treat yourself once in a while 😄🎄🎅🏼
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Courtney! Thanks so much!
Ohhh yes, let me know what you think!
Happy Veterans day to your family members!
I agree! You have to treat yourself, especially around Christmas! Do you like working at Starbucks?
Courtney says
Yes I do! It’s been really fun learning all the drinks and getting to meet new people each day at the store. Plus I loooove coffee so it’s great 😄
Olivia says
I’m so excited to try your chili recipe. I love making turkey chili but have never thought about adding sweet potatoes. It sounds amazing!!
I usually put up our Christmas decorations the day after Thanksgiving. It was always a tradition with my mom to go shop in the morning and then come home for Thanksgiving leftovers and Christmas decorating in the afternoon 🙂 They stay up until New Year’s!
My uncle was in the Air Force, my great-grandfather served in World War II in the Coast Guard, my parents-in-law were both Army, brother-in-law is a Marine, and many many friends who are serving overseas in all branches! We LOVE our military and Veterans!
My favorite holiday drink is the Chestnut Praline! While most people wait all year for the PSL I can’t wait for it to be gone so CPL can take it’s place. It’s SO yummy!
I also noticed your EarthFare bags. We are finally getting an EarthFare in our town opening in the next couple months and I am so excited! I love my Publix, but we don’t have anything like Whole Foods or Trader Joes or EarthFare in my area so I have to really search to make sure the products I’m buying are healthy and organic. I have my Publix shopping down and knowing the best deals and things to look for, any EarthFare shopping tips? I’ve never been in one I just know it’s like a more affordable WholeFoods? More similar to Trader Joes I assume. (I’ve never been in any of these stores so I don’t really know LOL)
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Olivia!
The sweet potatoes add so much to the chili! You’ll be hooked!
That is awesome! I know I’ll be putting mine up too 😃
HAHAHA I’ve never had that one. May have to try it!
I wouldn’t say it’s more affordable than Whole Foods but they do have a lot of products you can get that your normal grocery store won’t sell. Make sure to always cut coupons from their monthly magazines and sign up for a tomato bank account! You can get points and put them towards your groceries! Earthfare has a lot of amazing seasonal products to look out for!
Taralynn McNitt says
oh and one more thing…sign up for their emails!!!!
ok, a couple more things…they do a military discount on Thursdays so tell your family! AND…..look out for their meat sales.
Amanda says
Full disclosure, I already have my nutcracker collection up! lol I’ll probably put up my decorations and tree around November 25th, it’s a little early but I’ll be flying back to my hometown for twelve days and I want to enjoy them before then!
My pepere (grandpa) served in the second world war and I have friends that are active Royal Canadian Air Force. We celebrate Remembrance Day in Canada on your Veterans day and it’s the most important day of the year for me. I miss my pepere so much and this weekend always brings him closer in my heart <3. I also work with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police so it's exciting to see all my boys dressed up in their reds, marching next to the veterans, makes my heart happy!
EGG NOG LATTEEEEEE all day erryday! lol
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Amanda!
That’s such a good idea! I want to put all my stuff up this weekend, but Kyle thinks we should wait until we get back from Florida and he’s probably right lol
Happy Veterans day to all!!!
ohhhhh yeah! I’m making a dairy-free eggnog lotte 😉
Tif says
You look just like your mama!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Tif! ❤️
Ashton Jury says
Our Christmas decorations are already up lol… My husband is really into Christmas and since we ‘ll be out of town for Thanksgiving we figured why not just put them up! My brother in law is a veteran and Happy Veteran’s Day to your family! Please Thank them for there service. My favorite holiday drink has to be the peppermint mocha but I like to order it as a cappuccino and get two pumps of the mocha and one of sugar free peppermint.That way its not too sweet. Plus I love foam! Trader Joes just realesed a new Cocoa Peppermint Almond Creamer that I am obsessed with though!
Taralynn McNitt says
Lucky!!
I love that he’s into Christmas 😊 🌲
Happy Veteran’s day to your BIL!
I always get mine in cappuccino form as well. I’ll do the sugar-free mocha (one pump) and on pump of peppermint. They don’t have SF peppermint anymore.
I may have to check out TJ soon! Wish they had one closer to me!
Erin says
What couch did you buy?! I’ve been looking EVERYWHERE for a new couch and cannot seem to make a decision. It’s such an investment. I’m hoping to find a black Friday deal next week, but would love to know which one you bought.
Anonymous says
wheres the sweater from
JA says
Loved the post keep it up!