Good morning and happy Monday!
I hope you all had a great weekend. I just got back from a long morning dog walk, and we had a change in scenery this morning. There were kids everywhere! My quiet morning walks are no longer because it looks like the school year is in session. I genuinely love this time of year!
I’m getting ready to hop off the computer soon, pack a lunch, and head out the door. Becca and I are headed to Asheville today to check out her wedding venue and make some final notes for the big day! Of course, I wanted to get a post up before leaving. I’m sharing fifteen things from my week 😊, Oh, and if you haven’t checked out my latest California Travel blog, make sure to do so! And don’t forget to enter into the giveaway.
First, I want to start with THIS coffee drink that I’ve had daily.
I’ve been trying out new drinks for a new video I’ve been planning (healthy at home Starbucks drinks), and this is one I haven’t been able to stop drinking. I figured I’d share it with you here!
In a blender, I added 1 1/2 cups of dark roast coffee (sometimes I’ll add two shots of espresso instead), 1 cup of unsweetened almond milk, five ice cubes, and 1/2 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder. I blend on high until it’s icy!
**If you want it creamier, try freezing your almond milk into the ice tray, or add a frozen banana. A frozen banana and coffee? Trust me, it’s tasty. And if you like your coffee sweet, you can always add honey or a splash of stevia**
I had plenty of smoothies this week.
I mentioned a few posts back that I’ve cut out protein powder for the past month. I felt like I was relying on it too much for a protein source, and now I’m consuming more whole foods. I don’t think there is anything wrong with protein powder, but I was just leaning on it too much.
Sometimes if I have a big lunch and don’t have an appetite for dinner, I’ll usually have a smoothie before bed. This smoothie has unsweetened almond milk, blueberries, one frozen banana, cinnamon, cashews on top, and ice cubes! It took me a while to get used to smoothies without the extra sweetness, but now I love them. Want to know a fun fact? I haven’t had any added sugar (or artificial, monk, stevia, honey…) in 30 days. Crazy, I know.
Another smoothie I’ve loved lately is my spinach ones! I’ve mentioned these before, but I’ll share it again if you missed it. After my dog walks in the afternoon, I love a quick smoothie to cool me down. This smoothie has one cup of unsweetened almond milk, 1/4 cup of water, 1/2 cup of ice, 1/2 cup frozen mango, 1/2 frozen banana, and TEN cups of spinach. Does it taste super green? Yes, but I love it.
The air fryer kick? Yeah, I’m still on it. I’m telling you, if you’re considering an air fryer, do it. Here’s a link to the one I have.
Most of my dinners look like this! I’ll throw in some veggies and potatoes with seasoning and a little avocado oil. They cook within ten minutes! I usually top them with some Tessamae’s creamy ranch or their habanero ranch. Right now, I love asparagus in the air fryer.
This week, I was shocked to learn that Whole Food’s 365 unsweetened almond milk frothed better than the barista-style milks I have. I put the milk in the frother, turned around to unload the dishes, turned back around to make my drink, and stopped in my tracks when I saw the frother filled with fluffy milk. I couldn’t believe the almond milk had risen! You better believe I bought two more cartons of it. I’ve never seen almond milk actually froth without it being barista-style.
The weather was HOT this week, but I still managed to walk 3-miles each day. Usually, around noon, I make a playlist and head out for a walk. I have also been doing slower, but longer circuits in the living room afterward. Keeping my heart rate down is key, but putting in the work to still do circuits without my heart rate going up is something I’m going to work on being better at. I have issues with cortisol, and that’s the only reason I have to keep an eye on the heart rate.
Almond flour cauliflower in the air fryer! Hello, delicious!
This is the same way I make my breaded popcorn chicken, but it’s just as good with cauliflower!
I soak the cauliflower in egg, add onion salt, and black pepper, coat the cauliflower with almond flour, and then cook it in the air fryer on both sides for ten minutes at 400 degrees. If you want to do a buffalo flavor, once the cauliflower breading gets crispy, add the buffalo sauce on top, and then cook it for an additional three minutes.
I can’t get enough of the GTS Kombucha! There isn’t a flavor I don’t like. What I love is that they do not add sugar after the fermentation process. I brought one of these with me to have after my doctor’s appointment. Oh, and I also love the Chicken Sriracha bars from Epic. YUM!
Apparently, I’m soaking up salad season before it’s gone because I had a salad almost every day this week.
This salad had romaine, guacamole, onion, paleo fajita chicken from Whole Foods, Tessamae habanero ranch, and bell peppers.
I finished the guest room this weekend, so I’ll make sure to get all the photos and share the before and afters for a blog post soon!
On Friday night, we headed to Uptown to go to a Panthers game with our friends for Kyle’s birthday. One word: HOT! I’ve never let the heat bother me too much, but for some reason, the heat got to me that night. I felt like I was going to pass out the entire game because of how hot it was.
Luckily, we’ll be able to go to a few games this fall when it’s cooler out.
After the game, Kyle and I walked to Rhino Market to get snacks for the drive home. We used to stop in there all the time when Kyle lived in Uptown. We grabbed the chicken Sriracha Epic bars, a Kombucha (TOLD YOU I CAN’T GET ENOUGH OF THESE SNACKS!), and an RXBAR.
After showering off, I hopped into bed, watched Dateline, and fell asleep.
Saturday morning tennis was canceled because of a race going on in Uptown, so I took advantage of that and relaxed all morning. I had my go-to breakfast of scrambled eggs with vegetables and fresh fruit on the side. I’ve had this same breakfast for weeks now, and I’m not tired of it yet!
We headed to my parent’s house on Saturday afternoon to hang out at the pool, eat hibachi, play bags, and celebrate Kyle’s birthday!
There’s nothing better than my dad’s hibachi meals. This had chicken, squash, peppers, onions, sweet potatoes, carrots, zucchini, and habanero ranch from Tessamaes on the side!
For dinner last night, I made chicken burgers in the air fryer. HELLO, YUM!! It took ten minutes, and then I added two of the patties to my salad with dressing and fresh strawberries. ♥️
I hope you all enjoyed the “15 things from my week” post. I love leaving something up for Mondays when I don’t have time to sit and write an entire day by day recap post. I know you all understand. Oh, and don’t forget to check out the California blog!
Questions for you!
- Share 3 things from your week!
- Would you all be interested in a “decorate for fall with me” type of video?
- What is one goal you have for this week?
KT says
I’d love to see more from your week that doesn’t revolve around food. It seems like eleven of your fifteen things were food-related. Not a criticism, I just love a bit more diversity in content!
Taralynn McNitt says
There are a lot of things that don’t revolve around food in my life that I choose to keep private. For the past ten years, my blog has revolved around food and that’s the type of content I share.
Haley says
Many of her blogs are about other things and not only food. Have you seen her recent California blogs? decor blogs? Maybe follow fashion bloggers if that’s what you’re into. Her blog is her choice.
Kristina Walter says
I love that your blog revolves around food, decor and health. It’s so inspiring and motivational.
I’ve followed you for years. Even back when it was the “Undressed Skeleton” and it was more personal.
I related to a lot of what you went through and wrote about in your blog.
Also happy to see you are loving life. You are as inspiring as ever!
I only follow maybe a handful of blogs, maybe.
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, girl! ♥️
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says
I am so jealous of your lifeeee, Taralynn! And I want an air fryer so much! Wish I had enough space in my home for one. Great post! ❤️✨
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Charmaine!
💜
Lauren says
Hi Taralynn!
1.) Three things from my week :1.) I interviewed for a new job then withdrew from consideration because I got too nervous hopefully one day I will be less scared lol. 2.) My younger sisters turned 21 so this weekend was all about the festivities, I am detoxing now. 3.) I got a mani/pedi for the first time in forever and I forgot how amazing it is lol
2.) YES!!! that is exactly a video I would love to see from you 🙂 PS I hope you are going to do vlogmas again
3.) I am going to Michigan later this week so one goal I have is to make healthy food choices there.
Love you and your blog! Still excited for your big news!
Taralynn McNitt says
The more interviews you do, the better you’ll get! One of my friends loves going to interviews for practice. You’ll get there!
Happy birthday to your sister!
Vlogmas is most likely………HAPPENING!
Hoping I can share that news SOON! XO XO
Nicole Jenkins says
Chicken burgers in the air fryer!? Genius! I’m definitely going to try it 🙂 also the habanero ranch sounds great as well. I can’t really have dairy. I’m always sketchy about dairy free ranch, but I think I’ll give it a shot.
Taralynn McNitt says
sooooooo tasty!!!!
I’m SUPER sketchy about dairy-free ranch too, girl! But this one is legit. I had Becca try it today and she LOVED it.
Joy says
Chicken burger recipe please 🙂 I assume you could use turkey as well. I wish you would post more recipes for the meals you eat. They look delicious. Thanks!
Taralynn McNitt says
All I did was form the ground chicken into patties, add seasonings on top, cook it at 400 for ten minutes, and then flipped and seasoned, cooked for an additional five minutes! 🙂 I need to do more recipes, but I they are so simple so I feel bad sharing things like that lol
sammy says
The almond milk froths because of the gellan gum and locust bean gum. Additionally, carageenan will make it froth. A lot of nut/ oak milks have started removing those ingredients to make them more natural, which is why they may not froth up. Just a tip!
Taralynn McNitt says
good to know!
Madison says
I love that your blog revolves around food! I’ve followed you for ten years, and that’s what I’m here for!
1. Three things: I visited the future in laws in Austin, I had an avocado margarita, and I didn’t train for my Ironman very much. Whoops 🙂
2. I would definitely watch the video, I love getting inspo.
3. Goal for this week: get back to training!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Madison! 😊
What a fun weekend! Sometimes, REST is training 😉
Hope you stay focussed and kick butt this week, Madison!
Dana says
I just tried air fried asparagus too this week. Love it!
Can’t think of 3 things from my past week, it was sort of a blur. I did go to pilates and yoga.
Yes to Fall decorating. 🍁
Taralynn McNitt says
Pilates & yoga, a good thing to have included in your week!
Ahhh yes! The asparagus is so good~
Natalie says
1. I got my first tattoo, My grandma celebrated her 97th birthday. I hung out with 2 of my best friends from high school
2. For sure! I love fall and would love to see you decorate and make cute decor!
3. One goal I have is to get back in the gym. I slacked last week, but that’s ok. 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Ahhh! That’s awesome, Natalie! & happy birthday to your grandma! What a long amazing life!
Aren’t we all slacking? lol
Shelby says
This was great. Thank you for sharing, I love seeing all the tasty food! Sometimes life just gets so busy, but I hope all is well!
One of my goals for this week is to get back into daily exercise. Have had a hard time making it routine the last year and right when I started to get back into it I got sick! Fingers crossed it goes well.
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Shelby!
It’s always hard to get back into an exercise routine for sure! But YOU GOT THIS!
Claire says
Hi, Taralynn! I have been following your blog for a few years now – so inspiring to keep up with all your adventures! And yes, I would love to see a fall decor video! Actually, ANY type of a fall-themed video would capture my attention…
Also, I will be driving through North Carolina on my way back to college in a couple weeks. Do you have any must see spots? Coffee shops, scenic parks, best beach areas, etc.? Any pointers would be greatly appreciated!
Can’t wait to see your impending fall posts
Taralynn McNitt says
wwooo!!!
What part of North Carolina will you be driving through?
Lauren says
1. Three things from my week; 1. Just got home from Portugal (loved it) 2. Pasteis de Nata is my new favorite dessert 3. Europe in the summer is stunning
2. Yes! I’m so ready for fall and fall decorating!
3. Goal for the week: get organized and jump back into my routine
Love the 15 things blog!! Have a great week!!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Lauren!!
Ahhh Portugal? HOW AMAZING!!!
I’m sure it’s hard to get into a routine after a trip like that, but you got this!
Jessica Brown says
Can’t wait for your coffee post!
Also, love all your videos so yes, please do.
My goal this week is to keep my water intake up 🙂 Have a great week!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks girl!!!!
You and me both! a great goal to always have.
Brittany says
Oh my gosh that cake looks amazing!!!! Looks like Kyle had a nice birthday 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Compliments of the grocery store 😂 xoxo
Amy says
I love the pink notebook – where is it from?
Taralynn McNitt says
CVS!
Carol-Anne says
Loved your 15 things post!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thank you, Carol!!
Sara says
Where is that notebook from?
Taralynn McNitt says
CVS!😃
Rachel says
1. I saw your frozen coffee post on insta yesterday and made it this morning and it was yum! Starbucks dark roast is my jam right now!
Yesterday I did major cleaning of the house and it felt amazing!
I’ve been working on training my walk/leash reactive doggy and this was her best weekend ever! Our trainer discussed leveling her up to a class when weve been doing one on one.
2. Yes yes yes yes please!!!
3. My goal for the week is to get through the next couple days, patiently, calmly, and in one piece. I have a busy next few days ending with starting my birthday vacation on Friday!
Taralynn McNitt says
Woo! Glad you liked it 😊
You go, girl! Nothing better than a cleaning session!
Take one moment at a time and a lot of deep breaths!
Ashley says
Love this post! I’m still eyeing an air fryer, I really need to get one! That hibachi looks amazing, is that a flat-top grill? I’ve been thinking of getting my hubby one.
I would love to see a video for decorating for Fall! 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
Yes! I got my dad that for fathers day a few years ago and he loves it.
Rachael says
If you can get your hands on the limited edition summer kombucha from GT’s I highly recommend. It’s cherry, coconut & lemongrass it so good!
Taralynn McNitt says
UM! WHUT!
I need to find that!
Thanks for letting me know!
Emma says
I’d definitely be excited for a fall (or another themed) decorating post! I love seeing all your projects and decor.
Also, have you ever made homemade salad dressing? I’ve been experimenting a little bit recently and it’s fun! I like that I can make different combos without buying a ton of dressing. If you ever decide to try it out, I’d love to see what you create!
Taralynn McNitt says
Woo! Love this time of year!
I have made a lot of homemade salad dressing (randomly thrown into posts all over the blog) but it’s so good! Although, I’ve been hooked on Tessamae’s dressing for the past month!
Emily says
That coffee looks absolutely delicious! I can’t wait to see the photos of your newly finished guest bedroom!
Emily | Snippets of Em xx
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Emily!!
Jessie says
How do you make your chicken burgers I would love to try them in my air fryer ? I have never tried burgers in it yet