New Plate

Harvard's School of Public Health recently released the new "Healthy Eating Plate". It looks like a great, simple picture of what we should be eating.

What do you think? I really notice the lack of dairy and the text says 1-2 servings/day.

Sister Love

Lexi gives Zara a ride! from Natalie Shirzad on Vimeo.

Maria's Wedding Reception

My big sister got hitched in Vegas last month and we celebrated last weekend with a party. It was out in the country near Bellingham, Washington where we all grew up. We had a great time seeing everyone, the weather was awesome and the food was so yummy, especially the salmon and the cake. Yum, I'm wishing I could have it again right now. Congratulations Maria and Kirk!

Olivia, Zara, Sophia, Benjamin, Zoe and Lexi

Labor Day

Excuse the absence, but summer is still in full swing here. Portland weather is averaging a perfect 85! Here are some cute kids to appease you.

I am feeling lonely on this blog. Anyone out there should comment :)

Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken

I don't use my slow cooker that much. The recipes I used in the past were really heavy. This recipe changes all that and gives me confidence to try more. If you want an easy, healthy, tasty dinner recipe that even your kids will like, here ya go.

Note: There are a million versions of recipes with this same name, but this is the one I like :) It is very adaptable to substitutions with what you have. Don't have salsa? Use a can of diced tomatoes. You get the idea.

Salsa Chicken
1.5 lbs. chicken breast (can use fresh, frozen, etc)
1 jar salsa
1/4 cup water
1 can black beans
1 pkg frozen corn
1 tbsp. chili powder
1 tsp. oregeno
1 tsp. cumin
salt and pepper

toppings: (optional)
shredded cheese
shredded lettuce
diced avocado

Put chicken in slow cooker and pour all the other ingredients on top. Give it all a good stir and make sure chicken is covered. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Shred chicken with forks.

When its close to dinnertime, cook some rice (brown is best). Top with salsa chicken mix and toppings.

Instead of rice, you could put this on top of a salad or in a tortilla. Enjoy!