Hello!
Happy Monday to you all. I feel as if I got run over by a bus this morning. The ranch life put me through it, but it was a blast, and I cannot wait to share all about that adventure with you. I wasn’t sure if I was going to do a recap today because I didn’t take many photos from the week, but I also don’t want to get into the rhythm of not sharing recaps again, so here I am!
This is going to be a pretty crazy week for me. I spent the past three days at a ranch horseback riding, air boating, swamp buggy-ing, doing archery, skeet shooting, star gazing, line dancing, hay riding, glamping, and so much more. While all of that was unbelievably fun, I need some serious recovering. I plan on getting most of my video editing and travel blogging done from that trip today, tomorrow we have a builders meeting, and then off to help organize decorations with Becca, Wednesday I need to have everything ready for the cake and weekend trip, Thursday I head up for Becca’s wedding weekend, Friday she’s getting married, Saturday the dogs are going in for their grooming, and Monday I’m flying to Hawaii! I just need to take a thousand deep breaths and do one thing at a time. I GOT THIS.
I love my morning routine.
After walking the dogs and finishing up emails, I always make my go-to vegetable scramble.
I’m sure you know this, but I’ll fill you in on what’s in my bowl. It has one egg, four egg whites (from a carton, no wasting!) spinach, red onion, bell peppers, tomatoes from my dad’s garden, sweet potatoes, Applegate chicken sausage, everything but the bagel seasoning, and Tessamae’s habanero ranch dressing. 😋
I mentioned my new collagen matcha latte obsession last week, and I missed it while I was away this weekend. Instead of afternoon coffee, I’ve been having a matcha latte instead. I use unsweetened Matcha, Marine Collagen (from fish), and nut milk. I add all the ingredients to my frother to get the perfect consistency. This just reminded me that I need to head to the grocery store to pick up some more milk for today’s matcha latte!
This past week, Kyle and I drove by our site a few times. It’s so exciting to see the leaves changing on our lot because one day, I’ll get to look outside our back windows and see those same trees changing. That may sound so silly, but I’m just so excited to see it all come to life. This photo was taken from our lot, and it’s our front porch view. I’ve been vlogging this whole process, so when we are moving in during the spring, I’ll share the vlog with you all! 😃
I stopped into Whole Foods this week and picked up a ton of easy ingredients for salads. This is a salad I ate on repeat all week. It had locally grown kale, guacamole, cashews, apple almond quinoa, cranberries, tomatoes, cucumbers, chicken, and Tessamae’s habanero ranch.
While I was there, I also picked up a bowl of vegan quinoa chili for lunch! Our Whole Foods has a really good soup selection.
I wanted to share this fantastic illustration my friend Leighann sent me! She is soooooooo stinkin’ talented. She made a perspective drawing from my engagement, and it blew me away with how every single detail was spot on. She had my dress design, the outfit, the flowers, and my ring illustrated so beautifully. You all need to follow her on Instagram because she posts a ton of holiday-themed illustrations that will have your heart fluttering! 💜
After having my go-to egg breakfast on Thursday morning, I packed for my trip and headed to the airport. I was so proud of myself for going on a trip without buying anything for it. I always feel like I need to buy things before I go on trips, but I never need to. This was just one of those proud moments! When I got to the airport, I had an almond milk cappuccino since I knew it was going to be a long night, and I didn’t get the chance to have my matcha latte.
I made it to Orlando around 6:15, and then headed to the Westgate River Ranch for a weekend of fun! It was indeed a weekend I’ll never forget. I’m saving all the details for a separate post!
We had some extra time before the flight home, so Melissa (one of the coooooolest ladies ever!!), who I met on the trip, and I decided to head to Disney Springs for lunch and to walk around. You all know how much I love Disney, so I definitely was excited about that.
We ended up having lunch at Paradise 37. I had their vegan cakes which was the impossible burger topped with mixed greens, pineapple, coconut, and served with French fries.
We got to the airport around five, went the through long Orlando security line, and then departed for home! ♥️ I went straight for the bubble bath and dove into bed. I don’t think I have ever slept so good.
Thank you all for stopping by to catch up. I’m sorry this recap was a little stale, but I promise you’re going to LOVEEEE the travel blog from this weekend. I will also be blogging Becca’s wedding weekend and I know you are all excited about that!. She’s going to be the most beautiful bride. I cannot wait!!!
Questions for you!
- Do you ever feel like you “need” to shop before a trip?
- What was the highlight of your weekend?
- What are you most looking forward to this week?
Ashley says
Yes, you’ve got this, friend!! I hope that you can take time to relax and recharge in-between your busy activities this week. Can’t wait to learn more about your trip!!
https://www.makelifemarvelous.com/
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Ashley!!!
Becky says
Thank you for the quick recap! Keep breathing and try to enjoy every second of this exciting week and weekend! My best friend got married earlier this year and as crazy as it was that week, I wish I could back and relive it all over again because it was so special and fun! I’m so excited to hear all about Becca’s wedding! Congratulations and best wishes to her!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Becky 😊
I cannot wait to see everything come together this weekend! ♥️
I’ll make sure to share your kind words with her!
xo xo
Liz says
Thanks for the recap post I love reading your blog and watching your videos!
I know I’ve seen you use a ceramic to-go mug in the past but I can’t recommend my Klean Kantean one enough!! It keeps drinks cold/hot and I have a straw lid I can use when I’m drinking iced coffees. I love to try new coffee shops but I try to always bring my reusable mug to cut down on waste!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks so much, Liz!!
I know I need to start bringing my cup, but it’s hard when traveling at the airports because im limited as what I can bring, but I’ll try to be better! xo & I’ll look into those cups!
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says
You’re super busy I see! ❤️✨ I always feel the need to shop before a trip, haha. Always wanting to get new clothes so I can look super pretty in my photos LOL! 😛
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Taralynn McNitt says
I feel ya, Charmaine! 😂
Mechela says
I try not to get anything but I always end getting something. On my last trip, I was sitting next to a refugee on his way to his new home and he only had a backpack with some clothes in it. It really put my thoughts into perspective and has made me more mindful before feeling like I need to make a purchase.
My highlight was seeing a good friend of ours who just got back from his 1 yr deployment. I hated when my mom got deployed like that, so it was good to have him back!
This week, we are flying to NYC celebrate our 5 yr wedding anniversary (11/01). We have been often but this time we are making it strictly a foodie trip since we love to try so many things. 😄
Taralynn McNitt says
You’re so right about that ♥️
I bet it was great seeing him! I come from a military family, so deployment is very familiar to me. Please thank him for his service for me!
Haec a blast in NYC!! You’ll have to come back and share your food suggestions for NYC with me!
Patricia says
Can’t wait for you to blog about Becca’s wedding weekend! So happy she’s sharing her life with your readers 🙂
Taralynn McNitt says
She’s been apart of this blog for so long, and her wedding is going to be too amazing not to share!!
Brittany says
You got this! My mom always told me when I was stressed out as a teenager to take one day at a time AND if that is still too much to take one hour at a time. I have been using her advice since high school and now my to do list does not scare me as much. SO I hope this advice helps you as well! You can do it!
Also, I am in love with your camera coffee mug! So cute!!
As for this weekend, my fiance and I went on a little getaway to Leavenworth, Washington! Oh my gosh Taralynn, you would LOVE Leavenworth! It was the most adorable Bavarian themed town and the fall foliage there was absolutely gorgeous! They are already setting up for Christmas and I honestly kind of want to go back. Unfortunately it is a 4.5 hour drive (without stops) for me AND is a pretty busy town during the holidays.. so I may or may not be able to head over there again for the holidays this year. We will see!
I can’t wait to read your travel post from this weekend though! From your insta stories it looked like it was a lot of fun 🙂
Hang in there this week <3
Taralynn McNitt says
You are so right about that! Thanks for passing on that advice.
THANK YOU! I bought it at a little local hardware place here in Charlotte.
Sounds like them most perfect little getaway spot! I may have to check this place out for sure!!!
xo xo xo xo thanks for stopping by! Your comments always light up my day~
Susie says
I always shop before a trip too! And it’s usually unnecessary spending. You’ve inspired me to not buy a single thing for my trip to Tahoe. We leave on Friday and that’ what I’m most looking forward to this weekend!
My weekend highlight was having delicious brunch with just my husband (no kids!). The endless mimosas were a plus too.
You are a busy bee indeed! Good luck getting it all done (breathe and enjoy!) and have a great trip to Hawaii!!
Taralynn McNitt says
Hi, Susie!
You’re going to have so much fun! LOVE TAHOE!!! It’s crazy because half the time I go on the trips I end up wearing something I already owned and wearing it multiple times!!
Love that you and your husband had time to yourself! so important 😊
Thanks so much!
Katie says
Wow, girl! That is a lot of things going on this week, but you got this! I enjoyed the little recap this week and am grateful that you got it up even though you are busy. Sometimes I will go shopping for a trip, if I feel like I need something to take along (like a sweater if it’s cold). The highlight of my weekend was just enjoying the fall weather in downtown Raleigh. It was such a beautiful day on Saturday. This week we are going hiking at Raven Rock, so definitely looking forward to doing that! I am also looking forward to all of your upcoming posts coming up!
Taralynn McNitt says
Thanks, Katie! ♥️
I bet the weather was perfect in Raleigh over the weekend! I love that the leaves are changing here!
How fun & the perfect time of year for hiking! Have a blast!
Nicci says
I always feel the need to shop before a trip. Crazy really as it just adds more stress and one more thing on the to-do list!
The highlight of my weekend was a lunch date with my fiance for waffles and milkshakes – the best waffles ever!!!
This week I’m looking forward to looking after my brother’s pup for a few days and catching up with friends I’ve not seen since February.
Sounds like you have a very busy week ahead, but it also sounds so fun 🙂 You can definitely handle it all and then Hawaii will be the perfect way to relax. Not jealous at all 🙂 xx
Taralynn McNitt says
So right!!
It sounds like the BEST date!! ♥️ ohhh pup sitting! how fun 😃
Thanks for the encouragement!
Gaby says
I recently stopped shopping for trips. I used to think I didn’t have the right clothes and worked myself into a shopping tizzy and then was broke. Now, I shop in my own closet and call it a day. Really, if I end up needing something, maybe I could just buy it wherever we’re going. Also, I used to diet before trips. Now, no prep or worry about that either. Trips are supposed to be enjoyable – not induce stress!
Taralynn McNitt says
True! Sometimes we just need to shop our own closet! & yes, the diet before ANYTHING should be a big no no.
Madison says
I ALWAYS shop before a trip, and I’ve been traveling every week for work, so it’s a bad habit! I always feel like I need a quick Target run right before a trip.
I spent the weekend in Phoenix (which for once, I didn’t shop for). It was so fun, but being from Atlanta, the weather was very different and left me a little sick.
We’ve started buying a house and are moving through the first few steps. Its my first home and I’m so excited!
Love your recaps.
Harriet says
Fantastic recap, the ranch tip sounds amazing. What a busy week ahead for you, You got this! The view from your lot is stunning.
I use to always feel like I needed to shop before a trip, but I found a great tip on Pinterest, write a list of everything you need to take and pre-pack it all a week before you leave, then the night before look at the weather of your destination for while you are there then quickly adjust your clothing to suit, I am packing to night for my trip to Australia next week.
We had a long weekend as Monday was labour day, so that was pretty awesome, but the high light of my weekend was getting up at dawn every morning and walking along the beach with a coffee.
This week I am looking forward to getting my kombi back and taking the dogs to the lake for a day trip, its heading into summer here so the days are starting to get warm! its going to hit 90*F over the weekend
hope you have a great week!
Vanessa says
Wow, it’s been ages since I followed your blog. Must have been at least 2 years since I checked in here regularly. Now I’m excited to be back and I feel like there is so much to catch up on. Engagement? Building a house? Congratulations to all of that!
Do you ever feel like you “need” to shop before a trip?
Not anymore. I’ve become quite minimalist over time and I just know that what I already own will be good for any life situation.
What was the highlight of your weekend?
I got my first paycheque ever (just started full time work this month), so I celebrated with a mulled wine and a good meal.
What are you most looking forward to this week?
My boyfriend is visiting me for the weekend and we’ll go to bonfire night – such a big celebration here in the UK with bonfires and fireworks. Gonna be great!
Kristen says
You should frame that photo of your lot to hang once your house is built
Taralynn McNitt says
♥️
Brooklyn says
I’ve been in Mexico this past week and am currently at the airport catching up on your blog. THAT PAINTING IS AMAZING! What a beautiful and special gift. She sure is talented.
http://Www.justbeingbrooklyn.com
Taralynn McNitt says
I hope you had so much fun in Mexico!