Good morning and happy Tuesday!
I just finished walking the dogs a few miles, the sun and breeze are beaming through the open windows, my coffee is brewing, and I’m enjoying the sounds of my neighbors mowing their lawns. Oh, this is spring. I spent a few hours yesterday building a goal chart for spring and summer. I have so many things going through my mind that I’d like to accomplish, but writing it down and creating a plan is what really helps me put those goals into action. If you ever feel like you’re in a rut, grab a piece of paper and start planning. Write down your dreams, goals, and a few notes on how you plan to make them come to life 💜 I always think of spring as an open the door to new beginnings, and I’m always feeling inspired to be better and do better this time of year. I know this has nothing to do with my recap, but just thought I’d share.
If you find yourself scrolling through Instagram a lot, you may feel the urge always to be doing something or going somewhere. It takes me five minutes after scrolling through social media to all of a sudden want something someone else has. Or if I see someone take a cool shot, I’ll think…hmmm, maybe I should be out in flower fields taking fresh pics for Instagram. To be honest, that’s not something I always enjoy doing. I don’t know where a lot of these influencers get their drive to dress up and take those shots every day. It’s truly impressive! I feel like it’s a chore just to put on mascara. Did you know that you should be posting 3 to 4 times a day on Instagram just to get picked up in the algorithm? No thanks. I sometimes have to think back to why I started blogging, and it was really to share my journey to a happier and healthier life. And to me, being happy and healthy means doing things I enjoy and sometimes those things don’t look as pretty on Instagram, but that’s perfectly OK. I didn’t start this blog to be an Instagrammer, or dress up for photos. As soon as I realized that, the pressure of posting or trying to keep up with the Instagram Jones kind of went away. This blog is where I feel the most creative, and it’s where I feel the most connected with readers, and it’s where I feel most comfortable being myself and pouring out my heart and soul. To those of you that still read this blog rather than just scrolling my Instagram, thank you for being here! ❤️ The point I was trying to make before that turned into a novel is that, after realizing that I always get the pressure to be doing something after scrolling through Instagram, I told myself I was going to have a week where I did everything I wanted to do, even if it wasn’t “content.” So this week, I listened to myself and enjoyed my week of walking the dogs, laying on the couch watching crime shows, organizing my closet, editing upcoming videos, editing a few blogs, working out, grocery shopping, eating good food, gardening, and staying around the house as much as possible. To be honest, this was one of the best weeks I’ve had in a long time. Sometimes being a boring person is something I crave. I do want to note that there is nothing wrong with Instagram, and I think it’s enjoyable, but it’s important to recognize when it’s making a negative impact on you. Maybe I’ll delete Instagram off my phone for a week and write a post about how it affected me.
Now, let’s get to the recap blog 😊
Whenever I have a scheduled run, I always make sure to have a bowl of protein oats about an hour before. This has been the best fuel for me so far. I digest it well, I never feel full or hungry, and it never causes cramping (for me.) If you find a pre-run meal that works for you, stick with it! The post-run snack is what you can have fun changing up in my opinion.
I know I’ve mentioned it before and it’s repetitive, but here are the details just in case you’re new here!
I usually add blueberries to my protein oats, but since I was out, here’s how it went down! I add 1/4 cup of oats to a bowl with 1/2 cup of water and microwave for 45 seconds. If I’m adding blueberries, I’ll add in the blueberries at this point and microwave for an additional 30 seconds. It’ll look watery, but no worries! The protein powder will absorb it all up. I mix in about a scoop of protein powder, and then add my toppings! This one had peanut butter, vegan chocolate chips, and some Purely Elizabeth granola to add some extra crunch. On the side, I had a Koia protein drink mixed with a bit of almond milk for some extra energy! If you haven’t had the Koia drinks yet, you’re missing out! I always add them to almond milk just to make them last longer. They are so good! The vanilla bean is my favorite. Oh, and if you’re wondering about my protein powder, I have been using RawFusion lately. The flavor is so good, and it’s pretty inexpensive compared to the other brands I’ve used. I’ve had their chocolate, banana nut, and vanilla. 
About an hour after breakfast, I headed out on my run. I always tell myself that I’m going to drive to a flat trail, but I never feel up to it. Instead, I put myself through torture running the hilly neighborhood. Luckily, this makes my runs much easier when it’s a flat trail.
After I hit three miles, I feel so darn proud of myself. Mostly because I never thought I’d run for the enjoyment again. After I run, my endorphins kick in, and I’m happier. Running does bring me mental clarity, and it’s a good way to do something for myself that empowers me. The best part of this is that I don’t have an end plan. My goal is to just run for enjoyment and use it as meditation. Will I be running any races? Absolutely not! And if I do, it’ll be unplanned and something I do for fun.
After getting cleaned up after my run, I headed to Sprouts to pick up some groceries. I ended up making the most delicious dairy-free chicken salad. I cannot wait to share the recipe with you this week. I’ve already made three batches, and Kyle keeps asking for more. I plan to add it to my meal prep video I’m shooting Friday as well.
So for lunch, I had a kale salad topped with the chicken salad, tomatoes, grapes, and Mary’s gluten-free crackers. Holy Moly, these things are so good! I don’t know if I can buy them anymore because Kyle and I ate the whole box in one night. We kept dipping them into the chicken salad. They taste just like the buttery Ritz crackers. I was not expecting them to be so good! 
I spent the rest of the evening editing some videos for YouTube and watching American Idol before bed ♥️ Dinner? Well, the box of crackers with chicken salad while standing around the counter. 
I had a delicious chocolate strawberry bagel for dessert on Tuesday morning! I use the O’doughs plain gluten-free bagel and topped it with the Kite-Hill strawberry cream cheese, vegan Enjoy Life chocolate chips, and fresh strawberries. This breakfast was so tasty, and I also had almond milk mixed with one scoop of protein powder for some extra protein. 
In the afternoon, I walked the dogs and then decided to film a quick tutorial video for my IGTV and Youtube. I get asked a lot about how I make my cauliflower gnocchi so crispy! I have a blog post on it, but now you can watch the video on my Instagram or Youtube channel! And yes, I dip them in ketchup! 
For lunch, I had chopped kale with chicken salad on top, and gluten-free croutons. 
I decided to whip up some protein balls later in the afternoon. I love keeping these in my fridge for a post-run snack or something to have with my coffee, or before my dog walks. I am one of those people that needs to eat something when I wake up. I’m always hungry first thing in the morning. One time, I tried intermittent fasting for a month, which helped a bit, but I still loved having my early morning breakfast. I don’t know how people do it!
These balls have three scoops chocolate protein powder, 1 cup of gluten-free oats, 1/3 cup of almond milk (or more if dry), 1/4 cup of peanut butter, and 1/4 cup of chocolate chips. Mix and form into balls! It’s that easy 😃 
Lazy dinner night = Siete tortilla pizzas with tomato sauce, dairy-free Daiya mozzarella shreds, and Applegate turkey pepperoni. I’m sure these don’t look appetizing but don’t let this photo fool you. They were delicious! 
I was out of oats on Wednesday morning, so I settled for a gluten-free bagel with peanut butter and a banana before my run. This is also another pre-workout food that I can stomach well. Bananas are great for muscle cramps. 
I had two miles planned, and they went pretty smoothly! The only problem was that it was really hot outside! I could feel my face turning into a tomato after five minutes of running. I’m going to have to start waking up at the crack of dawn to run in the summer. When we get temps reaching 100, I’ll have no choice.
After hopping into the shower, I was still burning up. The best way to cool off is a smoothie! My smoothie had 2 cups of kale, almond milk, banana, protein powder, Amazing Grass Green Superfood powder, and ice. Oh, and topped with Purely Elizabeth granola for that extra crunch! 
For dinner, I had a gluten-free bagel topped with Kite-Hill Chive cream cheese, organic turkey slices, grapes with honey, and leftover cauliflower gnocchi. I also have a bowl of dairy-free chocolate peanut butter Enlightened Ice cream with SoDelicious dairy-free whipped topping for dessert. 😃 I’m telling you, that ice cream was amazing!!!! 
Not a bad way to wake up! 💜 
Breakfast on Thursday was the same as Wednesday!
For the past ten days, I’ve had a GoodBelly PlusShot Probiotic juice daily. If you ever deal with digestive issues or bloating, you may want to try this out. My bloating in the evenings has gone down tremendously, and the stomach pains I feel after eating certain foods have vanished. It could be the fact that I’m eating fewer vegetables, but so far these shots have been a game changer! They are definitely worth trying out! 
On the days I’m not running, I dedicate 15 to 20 minutes of living room strength training. I do a lot of leg lifts, weights, and core workouts. I don’t love going to the gym that much anymore (i go through gym phases), and being able to workout in my living room is just as effective and so much more convenient. After my workout, I decided to end it with a one-mile run. 
I spent the rest of the day with the air conditioning guys. My upstairs unit had a part break (the same part as last year), and luckily it was under warranty, so they spent a few hours fixing it.
After the air conditioning nonsense, I had a quick dinner! I made a turkey bagel sandwich with kite-hill chive cream cheese and had fresh fruit with honey on the side. 
Later in the evening, Caitlin and I headed to play with our sand volleyball league. I hadn’t played volleyball since high school, but it was so much fun. I was exhausted because I didn’t get home until midnight, and then I was all wound up and didn’t fall asleep until 2 am. I should have never turned on Dateline!
I had a late start to my Friday morning because I was so tired. The dogs and I did our two-miles, and then came to have breakfast. I had Chobani’s new dairy-free yogurt with fresh fruit, and it was delicious! I love how their dairy-free yogurt actually tastes like Greek yogurt, and it’s pretty low in sugar compared to other brands. 
I took Friday off from running, and decided to rest my muscles and do some walking and stretching instead. We had in and out of storms, so I was happy with that decision. I had to run to Earthfare to pick up a few ingredients for baking, and I bought one of their super green juices for the car ride home. It had ZERO sweetness whatsoever. It was one of those “hurry up and chug” types of juices. 
I baked my mom some her favorite protein muffins! She had been requesting them all week. These are the lemon blackberry protein muffins but with poppy seeds and blueberries instead of the blackberries. They are so delicious!
Kyle and I were going to play tennis Friday night but got rained out. Instead, we ate stir fry and watched the documentary on the disappearance of Madeleine Mccann. I love crime documentaries, but not things like this. It just made me sad and feel uneasy. 😔 
We had powerful storms on Saturday morning. The pups and I stayed in bed watching the Food Network and sipping coffee while listening to the thunder. The rain meant another day without tennis, but I found some other things to do around the house.
I made a delicious smoothie bowl for breakfast. It had 2 cups of kale, almond milk, banana, protein powder, Amazing Grass Green Superfood powder, and ice. I topped it with Purely Elizabeth granola, banana, kiwi, honey, and coconut shreds. 
I was shocked at the amount of DMs I got about me eating the kiwi skin! I think it’s the best part because it’s sour, 😊But it’s also filled with extra fiber and nutrients. Don’t neglect the kiwi skin! Add it to your smoothies if you can’t handle the texture, but it’s too good to let it go to waste. 
I was planning to take Saturday off, but when the sun came out, I knew it was a sign to get out there and run! I had already taken Friday off, and if I continued to take days off, I’d quit altogether. After finishing the Saturday run, I felt so proud of myself. It was unplanned but felt great! The humidity wasn’t fun, but that’s the type of thing that’ll make you stronger!
After showering off, I had a cappuccino and watched more of the documentary with Kyle! We just relaxed the rest of the day and did a few things around the house. 
On Sunday morning, I met up with Caitlin at Starbucks so we could map out our California road trip that is going down this summer! We finished the itinerary, but now adding a few stops and planning which hotels we’ll stay at in the locations! I’m so excited to share the trip with you! It’s going to be one of the coolest things I’ve ever done.
After a few hours of planning, we were super hungry, so we walked over to the Towne Tavern for lunch. I ordered a salmon salad that came with romaine, onions, cherries, pecans, and a citrus vinaigrette. It hit the spot! 😋 
I spent the rest of Sunday editing my running video that should be done very soon! I ended my evening with a green smoothie, finished up my taxes, and watched American Idol before bed! ♥️
Questions for you!
- If you have Instagram, do you ever feel the urge for “more” after browsing?
- Has Instagram steered you away from reading blogs?
- If you’re reading here today, say hi by leaving the “🌸 ” emoji.
Totally agree, Taralynn! 🙂 I think it’s important to be aware that Instagram and social media only shows the highlight reels of someone’s life. And if it’s negatively affecting you, then unfollow! I still read blogs, and I actually prefer them to Instagram. Instagram is so generic and everyone posts the same photos, boring! 🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Thanks, Charmaine!
I always love reading your comments! You’re such a sweet person. xo xo
Always love reading your posts 🙂 Thanks for being so consistent and honest. Been following your blog for probably 6-7 years now!
Thank you so much, Kayla!!! ❤️
I love this blog post because I feel like you put how I feel about IG in words 😂 I feel like I live in a dream world more than I live in the real world, and that is NOT GOOD. I suddenly have so many things I want to start doing after scrolling, things that are just not really my thing. I need to get back to earth 😱
I used to read so many blogs until I started scrolling through IG. I enjoy reading blogs much more because they are a lot more real than just a photo with a caption. So I need to stop using IG so much.
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I think so many of us feel that way! Actually, I’m sure everyone scrolling through Instagram can feel that way. I will be like “oh, I need to tile my bathroom with blue turquoise like this photo and add lots of plants” HOLD UP…WUUUUUT? lol, It’s funny how one photo can make us want to do things that simply aren’t us.
I put a limit on my phone that only allows me to spend a certain amount o minutes on IG a day, so that makes me really choose wisely on what I’m doing! No more endless scrolling.
Hi Taralynn, always enjoy leaving your blog posts! 🙂 Personally, I want to make my running coaching more of a full-time thing, and the thing with me is that I see other people do it on IG and I wonder if people will think I’m “legit” enough – which is crazy because I’ve gotten so many requests! Just gotta get out of my head! I also want to begin blogging weekly, but the time is hard to make for some reason. Do you have any tips of ways to get back into blogging? Also, I’d leave the flower emoji but I’m on my laptop 🙂 Thanks! -Elizabeth
Hi, Elizabeth!
Thank you so much! Honestly, I’m so lucky that blogging has introduced me to people like you in my life. You are one of my biggest inspirations and I love seeing your positivity each day. Your content on Instagram and your blog is the type of content that genuinely inspires me and never makes me feel like I’m not enough. I love the content you put out in the world. If anyone is legit enough to be a running coach, IT’S YOU!! Please get that out of your head for sure. I understand why blogging is hard for you because you have a career and train hard. For me, this is my job, so that’s why I may seem easier on my end. If I did as much as you, I’d have a hard time too. I think if you want to get started, stick to what makes you happy. It’s obvious you have a passion for running, so maybe spend each Sunday writing a recap on your running for the week, including what you eat, including what you wore, the highs, the lows, and stick to it. It’s content you’re already naturally creating, and it would just take a few extra steps to snap some photos, upload, write, and share! Eventually, that’ll turn into more people reaching out to you for coaching. ♥️
I gave up Instagram (and all social media) for Lent. The first few days are hard, but once you get past those it’s freeing. I may not go back, or if I do I’ll only check it once a week.
I’ve been reading your blog for years! You inspire me and that can’t be replicated just by checking Insta! xoxo
I love that! ❤️ What a great thing to give up for Lent.
I appreciate your kind word! That really means a lot to me!
I honestly stopped reading blogs for the most part. However, seeing your IG post about your post prompted me to come here & I’m glad I did!
I don’t feel the desire for what others are doing or have when scrolling…BUT I have a problem with IG shopping! I’m an advertisers dream. Such a sucker!
I feel like many people stopped reading blogs now that Instagram is at its peak and that’s why so many people put most of their content there. As for Instagram shopping, that’s dangerous lol. My boyfriend always says I’m the ideal consumer while shopping sales at the grocery store lol
🌺 – love you’re blog and your realness!!
Thank you, Emma! ♥️
Hey Taralynn! Love the idea of taking a break from Instagram. I also feel so much pressure on the app, but I really DON’T enjoy modeling for pictures of myself.
I also do think sometimes I don’t read blogs because it’s easier to look at pictures, but I love blogs SOOOO much more. That’s really how you get to know the blogger and really feel connected to their lives. Maybe it’s just me, but I get much more encouraged and inspired from blogs.
I know it’s probably personal, but I’d love some examples of ways you plan your goals. I’m such a goal oriented person and love new ways to visualize them!
Hi, Madison!
Hahaha! Exactly. I don’t mind jumping in for a photo, but it’s the “glam” thing that throws me off! When it becomes a modeling shoot, I’m out!
I’m the same way. When I’m looking to grow my knowledge on something, I don’t look at Instagram. I search for blogs and read about someone’s life experiences.
To be honest, it’s as simple as writing them down on a piece of paper and keeping it on the coffee table or my desk!
There is so much delicious food in this post, it wasn’t a good idea to read this before eating!!
I love your pictures, you definitely shouldn’t let Instagram get you down, I can’t believe that the algorithm wants you to be posting that frequently, they’re just encouraging spam, not quality!!
It sounds like you had a wonderful Tuesday morning 🙂
Hahaha! I try to post after the lunch hour 😆
I don’t think it gets me “down” it just makes me want more and more. I’ll find myself doing things that aren’t true to myself for no reason. I think Instagram can be an incredible space for inspiration, but it’s how we use it and who we follow 😊 The algorithm thing is nonsense!
Hope you have a great week!!! xo
It is sooo nice to read your thoughts about Instagram – I feel like I’m constantly reminding myself not to compare my behind-the-scenes to someone else’s highlight reel. While I do look through Instagram a lot, I absolutely look so forward to reading blog posts like yours that are real and still inspiring. You post examples of amazing meals, but also post the random dinners like over the counter crackers and chicken salad (I am am over-the-counter eater too from time to time). It’s just so refreshing and I love seeing you stick with what you started with!!!!!
I don’t think you’re alone with those thoughts! We just have to recognize what we see on Instagram and make sure to only follow people that bring inspiration to our lives.
Hahahaha my lunch today was another over the counter eating the crackers type of meal 😆 Favorite way to NOT do dishes.
Thank you for your kind words, Hayley!
Hi Taralynn!
I’ve been reading your blog since your Tumblr days and this is the first time commenting, so Hi! Instagram definitely has a way of making a lot of us feel less than, and have a fear of missing out! I have a small Etsy business, so I follow a lot of other makers and creators and I feel myself comparing my success to theirs which is not good! We are all in different chapters of our lives, so there is no need to compare and distract ourselves by the often staged and “hightlight reel” photos. I did an Instagram detox where I deleted it off my phone for a week and it was awesome!
I really enjoy reading your blog whenever you post, you have such a bright personality that comes through in your photos and blogs. And of course I love seeing the photos of your dogs! ( I’m a total dog person, I have a chihuahua named Beau Jack)
Just wanted to say, Instagram will never steer me away from reading your blog! 🙂
Have a great day! 🙂
Hi, Megan!
Wow! Thank you for commenting and stopping by to say hello! 😊 The fomo is real when it comes to Instagram. The comparison game, even when it comes to business, is not good. You just have to remember that everyone starts on the same page and grows at all kinds of different paces. I bet that detox was amazing. I may have to do that very soon.
Hahaha I’m glad you like my dogs! I could post 1000 photos of them a day, but I will refrain myself haha Your dogs sound adorable!!
I’m so happy to hear that you’ll always be a reader! Means a lot to me! Hope you have a great week.
I love your recaps and your insta pictures! It’s real life and you are always beautiful.
You are such an inspiration. I read your story a couple weeks ago and I was shocked about what you have been through. Your positivity and your smile mean a lot. Sorry for my English, but I’m French and I am losing my English… 🙂
Hi, Marie!
Thank you so much ♥️ Your English is wonderful! xo
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Hi Tara! I have been on an Instagram break for a while. I am easily influenced enough, so i really don’t need to be looking at pictures that make me feel insecure!
Your post reminds me SO MUCH of some things that Brene Brown talk about. Have you ready any of her books? They are really powerful. I’m listening to her audiobook, The Power of Vulnerability, and its so good and she talks about how people who are content with their lives are the ones who allow themselves to play and relax wayyyy more than most people. But our culture puts a ton of pressure on is to always be “doing.” Anyways its good to hear you talk about it. I love reading your blog! Xo
Hi, Abbey!
I love that you’re in tune with how Instagram and the influencing world affects you.
I have not read any of Brene Brown books, but I will most definitely look into them after writing this comment! It sounds like it’s exactly how I’m feeling!
Thank you! xo xo
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I’ve been in an “on” phase with Instagram lately because I’m trying to help my mom build one for showcasing her art so I’m testing things out on mine. If I’m in an off mode, I move it to the last page on my phone so it’s not in front of me all the time. It can get me down in a way; the consumerism of all the designer unwrapping videos and perfect closet shots. I get both sad that that is what is important to so many and that I have less, even if I’m happy with what I have most of the time! (I did a massive clean out/purge and really don’t need anything.)
Hi, Dana!
Yeah, it can be a rewarding place, but also a toxic one. It’s how we create our feeds.
Those cleanouts feel so good! I did one this morning while changing out the winter clothes 😀
🌸🌸🌸 I love reading your blogs! They are more interesting than scrolling through Instagram posts. I completely agree with your comments on Instagram. It makes me feel like my life is boring sometimes but I think a lot of it is kind of unrealistic and staged in a way. I like people that keep it real on social media.
Thank you, Ashley!!
Very staged! And when it’s not staged, it’s the best kind of content! Content can still be beautiful when it’s realistic.
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ahhh you always have the BEST eats, gf!! and i seriously love what you said about Instagram – it’s so true, i never feel fully content with my life when i’m on Instagram, but when i’m off of it, i feel amazing!! so glad you got to take the week to do what you love, even if that means not creating content every 10 seconds!
Hahaha, thanks, Jordan!!
Yes!!! We know how to live our lives without Instagram, and it’s a problem when it starts to influence the way we think. We can think on our own 😃
Sometimes doing nothing is doing something 😃
I just wanted to say that I LOVE your blog posts. I honestly have been feeling more frustrated with bloggers turning to Instagram to release content or just talk on stories all the time, rather than posting blogs. I much prefer the long form version on blogs over any social media. It’s also confusing to have to navigate through the saved stories on Instagram or if you just don’t get one for two days you could miss some content entirely. Team Blog Posts all the way!
Hi, Lauren!
Ohhhhh the non-stop talking stories! I don’t know how they do it. I feel so awkward talking to a piece of technology when no one is talking back at the other end lol Some people are so good at it though, but I look like an awkward duck haha.
Love that you are team blog posts and it’s good to know readers are still out there!
🌸 Love reading your blog!
Thank you, Amber!!
Instagram is definitely fun! I do really love it. But i don’t feel truly connected with the bloggers i follow on there. Blog reader all the way!
Love hearing that, Jesek!!
I was definitely falling into the comparison trap with Instagram so I actually deleted it about a year ago! It’s hard to not feel like you’re “missing out” on things but it has definitely helped with my happiness! I don’t read a lot of blogs I had started anymore but yours has been my favourite. It’s the first one I ever read (back in the Undressed Skeleton days 😉) and has by far remained my favourite and the most genuine/authentic! Keep up the great work and being yourself, you are a true inspiration and I love what you do! 🌸🌸
Hi, Melanie!
Wow! Good for you. I’m sure that’s made such an incredible impact on your life! Thanks for reading my blog all of these years!!! ♥️ Your kind words just made my day.
🌸 Can’t wait to see you out in my neck of the woods exploring CA! I definitely feel like IG urges me to get out more, and have the same thoughts about how are these people doing all this stuff! I try my best to just be in the moment, but I do love stopping to take pictures as well. Also I am looking into trying tennis, any recommendations? Should I get a used racket to start? I just moved and discovered a court half a mile away and you make it look so fun so I thought i’d try it out! Have a good week!
I’m so so so excited for the trip!
I think it’s so cool you’re thinking about starting tennis!!! If you can, try to find an instructor and get a few lessons. They’ll teach you so many basics that’ll help you play! I feel like I should say “yeah, get a used racket” but I didn’t do that. I went and got fitted or a Head racket and it’s my favorite!!!! I’ve had two of them and I lay much better with them. If you can also play with a beginners tennis group, that would be fun and a great way for you to learn more. You may be able to find a good group on meetup. Tennis is my favorite sport ever!!
Hi Taralynn,
1. Lately I’ve felt like I’ve been wasting so much of my life just scrolling through Instagram. When I was bored, waiting for someone/something or had a spare second at work I’d find myself just popping open the app. I noticed my mood being down and I think some of it could have been related to Instagram in particular. I decided to do a two day cleanse (on a weekend) and did I ever feel refreshed! My mind felt clear, I had more energy and overall I just felt happier. Also my weekend went by way slower! I think I am going to make one day a week an instagram-less one.
2. Never! I love blogs and I have about five different ones I’ve been reading for years (including yours!). There is something so peaceful about enjoying my morning coffee and catching up on blogs.
Hope you have a great week!! All of your food from this week looked delicious. I love how you always have random combinations of things because I always do that too! 🙂
Hi, Erica!
I am so guilty of doing the same. I just sit and browse to waste time, or while I’m waiting on things. I never let my mind just relax and have a second to be distraction free. I do try to stay away from it on the weekends, but I’m thinking I need to follow in your footsteps and do a total cleanse!
I love hearing that!! ♥️
Random combos are my jam!! lol Have a great week!!
I LOVE your perspective on Instagram lately! I couldn’t agree more! I’ve been guilty of feeling the exact same way after scrolling and then can’t for the life of me figure out why I let those types of things get into my head! Social media has it’s positives for sure and then it has it’s pesky little negative hidden underneath some days too! I like to do “cleanses” where I unfollow accounts that give me negative vibes or make me feel any kind of icky after scrolling! I much more prefer to follow inspirational pages as much as possible! 🙂
Okay, I did NOT know that Kite-Hill had a Strawberry flavor!! I’m addicted to the Chive flavor so I know Strawberry has to be just as delicious!!! Especially on top of Dave’s Killer Bread bagels! I have to hunt that stuff down ASAP at the grocery store next time!! Thank you so much for sharing!!
Also, you’re doing so great with your running routine!! Way to keep it up!!
Hi, Chelsea!
I’m glad you understand what I’m saying. Those cleanse are so important. I may have to do a blog about transforming our Instagram feeds to make us feel inspired! I definitely unfollow anything that makes me less than or makes me feel the need to buy silly things.
The strawberry is new!!! I found it at Sprouts! 😃
Thank you so much!! It’s a lot of fun!!!
🌸 I love your blog, recipes, recaps, dogs, smoothies, and most of all, your positive attitude! I’ve been feeling the drag of IG lately and want to spend less time on that, more time doing what makes me happy. I love running, but I have a heart condition that prevents me from doing long distance right now. This summer I hope to purge a lot of phone time and spend more time walking my dogs, gardening, and of course, eating!
Thank you, Lizzie!!
Love that you’ve recognized the way Instagram makes you feel. I’m so sorry to hear about your heart condition. If you can, make a good playlist and go on long walks with the pups! I love doing that even more than running 😊 Such a great stress release.
I hope you share pics of your garden with me this year! I don’t know why, but I love seeing what people plant! xo
I look forward to reading your blogs every week! I seriously look forward to reading them and consider it a “treat” when I ‘m at work!
Also, I screenshot that workout and it was great! I worked up a sweat in the first round! I will now add it to my weekly workouts!
Wow! That just put a huge smile on my face!
💜
Taralynn,
I’ve been reading your blogs for a couple of years now and I so appreciate your honesty and realness. I am not a regular follower of many blogs and yours has helped me tremendously with my health journey. You inspire me with your meal ideas and workouts but what I love the most is your genuineness. Thank you for what you do. It means a lot!
Hi, Joye!
Thank you so much for your kind words! It makes me so happy to hear that I’ve been able to make a difference in your journey. That just gives me the push to keep doing this! Thank you for taking the time to write this note! xo
Have a great day!
Taralynn ♥️
🌸 Love your dairy free suggestions!! I’ve been dairy free for about a year and your recipes and recommendations have been a life saver! Your blog is the only blog I keep up with regularly and I am so glad you still write it! You are genuine and inspiring. I look forward to your recaps to enjoy with coffee! Your cleaning videos also have greatly motivated me to spring clean haha!
Awwww that put a smile on my face!
I thought it was going to be hard to go dairy-free, but there are so many options out there now! I should probably get another cleaning video out there! 😃
I couldn’t find the flower emoji, but just wanted you to know I’m reading! I love your blog:)
Thank you, Tori!! ♥️
🌸 thank you for keeping it real and honest
Thanks for always stopping by to read, Harriet! I’m always inspired by your adventures!
I loved reading your post – and all the beautiful pictures!
Instagram can be inspiring and uplifting to me but I often end up wasting quite some time on it! Without even remembering what I was looking at for the most part… so I definitely try to limit myself with Instagram.
Blogs are different: I sit down and read a post (like now with a nice cup of coffee after my run). I spend more time there and it feels more relaxing too.
Plus I really appreciate the time that went into a post (and such a long one especially) so: thank you – I’ll keep reading!
Thanks so much, Julia!
Yes, I find myself doing the same.
I love that you said blogs are a place to can relax and drink a cup of coffee to read. That is exactly why I like to write to them!
Thank you for that feedback! xo
🌸 Hi Taralynn! Instagram is just “staged life”. Yes, it’s fun to browse at what people are doing/wearing – but not healthy to get too absorbed in it. You are doing the right thing and finding balance. Something that has taken me a lot longer to learn. 🙂 Your blog is truly special and I always enjoy stopping by. Stay true to you! Happy Spring!
Hi, Jen!
You’re so right! & thank you for the little reminder! xo xo xo
Hi Taralynn! 🌸 🌸 🌸
I couldn´t agree more with you. I noticed that sometimes my mood suddenly changes just because I saw some “perfect” post on Instagram. Some beautiful place or expensive clothes… Even if I close the app, I keep feeling weird and questioning if my life is enough. I don´t like this feeling because there will always be someone who has more than me and in most of cases, this someone is just creating a perfect life on Instagram, far away from reality. I think it´s a really good idea to take a break from social media and focus on our real life. Because when you are really happy, sharing a beautiful moment with someone you love, you don´t think about posting it, you just live it.
So yes, maybe I am old-fashioned but I still prefer reading blogs rather than just scrolling Instagram.
Thank you so much for this post, at least I know I am not alone with my feelings. That´s why I love your blog and I keep reading you after so many years. You are such a real and nice person, I wish there´d be more people like you!
Cheers!
Hi, Milena!
Ahhh yes. Not good when an app can affect our mood! Everything you said was so spot on!!!
As you can see by other commenters, you’re most definitely not alone in how you feel! ♥️ xo xo xo xo
I deleted Instagram because of that reason exactly! Your blog brings me a lot of inspiration and your photos brighten up my day.
Thank you, Alissa!!
You are bold…Goals girl!
♥️
I love your blog, been reading it for years!! The reason I read yours is because you still put so much effort into it whereas I feel like a lot of other bloggers jumped over to Instagram and their blogs have not been the same since so it’s less fun to read. Keep going Taralynn, your blog is such an inspiration to all of us here 🙂
That makes me sad. I feel like Instagram is an easy place to post and walk away, but the work put into blogs is so much more rewarding! I hope people call me out if my blog ever becomes second to Instagram! xo xo
You’re always so inspiring Tara!! I sometimes get so wrapped up in the Instagram world and feel bad about myself for not looking put together all the time or doing things, but you always make me feel normal and are so real. I love your blog and instagram and I look forward to reading each and every post of yours! It’s crazy how similar we are. I swear I will be thinking of trying something or be in the process of it and then I see you’re doing the same thing and it always inspires me to keep going and see how your journey is going. Keep being you because you’re awesome!!
XOXO, Paige.
Hi, Paige!
You’re not alone in feeling that way! Since I work from home, I always feel just BLAH because I’m NEVER made up or look dressed up, but I don’t know why I feel bad because I prefer it that way. Crazy we let our minds do that to us.
I’m so glad you take the time to read my blog 😊 & that is too funny! I suppose great minds think alike 😉
xo xo xo xo xo
I have been reading your blog for years! I still prefer to read your blog over scrolling Instagram. I actually just got IG this winter and it’s ok (besides, Pinterest is my jam!) Try to tell myself that I am only seeing the best 5% of someone’s day, not the other 95%. It’s just not real life. Keep blogging & I’ll keep reading!
Hahahaha Pinterest is dangerous for me! I try to only look at food 😂 oh, and DIY!! xo thanks for your sweet words!
Instagram totally makes me feel like I need more, I quit looking at Instagram on January 1st of this year and just happened to open it up a few days ago to see what I’ve missed and sure enough, it’s mostly mindless scrolling! Conversely, reading your blog is relaxing and inspiring! Thanks for all that you do! <3
Love that! You’re right. It’s mostly just mindless scrolling half the time for me as well.
🌸
I’ve been getting bored of Instagram lately. Sometimes a photo I love doesn’t get much attention, but a photo I don’t love gets loads of attention, and I wonder why? (I know it’s the way the algorithm works) and I get restless from scrolling too much. I check it maybe once a day, quickly.
If you like crime videos you should check out Kendall Rae and Georgia Marie on Youtube!
I finally saw the cauliflower gnocchi at my supermarket but haven’t bought it yet. I need to!
http://Www.justbeingbrooklyn.com
I feel the same way, Brooklyn! The algorithm is there to get people to keep posting and commenting, which seems very unauthentic. It’s a choice to join or opt out!
I’ll look into it! Thank you for that. You know I LOVE MY CRIME shows!
I hope you get it and try it!!!
Your blogging is very relaxing to read. I don’t feel all over the place as I do with Instagram.
Will you be doing a fitness challenge this year?
Thank you, Rayna!
No plans of right now until I get my own fitness goals met, but you never know!
I didn’t know about the algorithm and it makes me upset because I almost forgot about your content because I never see it anymore. I wish you could hand pick what you see’ 🌸
Awww, well you can always turn on post notifications if that helps! ♥️ thank you!
I started blogging in 2010 and it’s definitely my preferred outlet too. I don’t have the energy for Insta anymore! Ha ha!
I keep hearing how blogging is out but I don’t care, I love it!
Insta is tough hahaha! I never heard blogging is out lol, goodness i hope not! haha
Love your blog xD I have actually been following your blog for four years now, and your blog is the only one I enjoy reading with my morning long black! I think its a great idea to disconnect from IG a bit, it almost seems freeing. You go girl, you are inspiring xD Also, make sure to stop by Big Sur on your roadtrip through CA- it’s seriously breathtaking and Monterey and Carmel (in the area) are great towns to visit!
Thanks so much, Emiko!
We are definitely stopping by Big Sur!! ♥️ & Monterey and carmel!!
Maureen
🌸
I forgot how much more satisfying it is to read a blog than scroll Instagram. Thanks for sticking to it all these years!
Thanks, Heidi!
I love reading your blog! It is so refreshing!
I actually gave social media up for lent and it was the best decision. I realized that its not something I NEED in my life. I am perfectly content without scrolling thru my insta feed for a ridiculous amount of time every day. It was eye opening how much time I had been wasting on social media staring at my little screen in my hand. I finally had the opportunity to try new activities or things that I had been putting off!
I don’t plan on completely getting rid of my social media accounts, but I do plan to continue limiting my time on them. It has made me ten times happier and healthier!
🌸Love this post so much! I’m actually not really on Instagram and sometimes feel out of the loop but maybe it’s best I don’t get sucked in 🙂 you give the best pep talks on your blog! I would seriously love to see you write a book! ❤️
I’m obsessed with those bagels and it looks sooo good with that strawberry cream cheese! Sadly I checked my earth fare and they don’t carry it. I just picked up the o’doughs sandwich thins and hope they are just as good as the bagels.
Hi, Kristin!
Thank you so much 🙂 Nothing out of the loop on Insta!
O’doughs are really good, thin but good! THe gluten-free trader joes bagels are delicious!
Your blog is one of the only ones I still read because it is just SO good! Thanks for always sharing!
Aww thank you!