It’s warming up this week, and it’s a great time to get outside and GRILL! These shrimp tacos were super quick and easy, and I made it even easier by buying pre-made fresh mango and pineapple salsa (instead of the avo salsa in the recipe.)

I used Costco frozen shrimp, defrosted them overnight, and marinated them for about 15 minutes before popping them on the grill. They cook really quickly, so don’t go far. Fresh lime is the star...

As we are all sorting through lots of big emotions and embracing our new normal, it’s more important than ever to get creative with learning outside of the box. I love using baking as a learning opportunity because the outcome is always delicious and the little nuggets of learning happen organically.

Use this recipe to focus on mathematics, home economics and health. For the math skills, talk about the various measuring spoons and...

My morning happily starts with a giant cup of coffee, and years ago I switched from cream and sugar to other alternatives, such as low-fat cow’s milk and almond milk. My new obsession is Califia Toasted Coconut Almond Milk. There is no sugar added, but the toasted flavor of the coconut gives it a natural sweetness, plus is creamy! It is super yummy in my dark roast coffee, and I also loved it in my smoothie last week, as well as my cereal....

We're all in this together, mamas! Keep calm and stock that freezer! Try this soup for something new.

I am obsessed with soups in colder months! My week is set up for success when I meal prep, and that always includes a big pot of soup on Sunday. I will typically eat the soup for dinner, then pre-portion throughout the week for a quick lunch! I adapted this recipe from a WW recipe and it’s so easy and filling. You can always...

Roasting vegetables is such an easy and amazing way to add more veggies to every meal. They are great on top of a salad, in a rice bowl, or as a simple side dish! The high temperature helps the vegetables get a nice, caramelized, sweet flavor. These carrots are super simple and dried thyme works just as well as fresh. We served this on a bed of quinoa with grilled chicken and it was warm, comforting and delicious!

Enjoy!...

Rainy winter nights call for a comforting soup, and broccoli cheddar is a staple soup in our house! It’s super easy in the Instapot or other pressure cooker as the cooking time is sped way up instead to simmering on the stove. I followed the recipe exactly as written, but substituted 2% milk for whole, and only used 2 cups of sharp cheddar. It’s a thicker soup, so feel free to add an extra cup of stock for a thinner consistency. Omit the...

This is my new fave find at Trader Joe’s, but I totally understand if you are a bit skeptical— I was too! I read about this on a blog I follow and decided to try it for myself. YUM!

This was a super quick lunch and satisfied that sandwich craving;). I oven baked my burger, and loved it, but I also want to try it pan fried for a nice sear. I served mine on a toasted bun with 1 teaspoon of avocado mayo, dill pickle slices, iceberg...

I’m obsessed with quinoa as it is super tasty, my 5 year old eats it and it’s a great rice/pasta swap! This recipe has three ingredients and can be used in many different dishes. Use your Instantpot or rice cooker and this comes out fluffy, moist and full of flavor!

I served this with two meals: salmon with asparagus, and a base for black bean burgers with pico de gallo. You could also use this in a salad, as a base for curry,...

I’m all about making a big batch of salsa to pair with several meals throughout the week. This recipe requires a bit of chopping, but once it’s done, you are set for 2-3 meals. It’s fresh, sweet, a little spicy and pairs nicely with many proteins and veggies!

Chop the following into a small dice:

• 4 medium ripe mangos
• 1/2 red onion
• 1 or 2 jalapeños (depends on the spice you like)
• Medium red...

Mexican and Southwestern cuisine are staples in our home, and this easy salsa chicken is so versatile, it can be cooked ahead for meal prep, and used in a variety of ways through the week! It only has a few ingredients, and cooks in less than 30 minutes. I love the ease in which a pressure cooker adds flavor quickly, while keeping the meat nice and tender.

I followed the Skinnytaste recipe exactly as written. When the chicken...

During the winter, I love a good buffalo wing, but don’t enjoy that bloated feeling I get after. This chili is the cure for that craving, with all the flavor of a basket of yummy wings! You literally toss the ingredients in, and it’s set to go!! This is a great chili for a football Sunday or a potluck! Adjust the amount of buffalo wing sauce based on your spice preference.

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2-3 celery...

Sometimes, we just need a little extra energy to get through the day. This breakfast burrito is so easy to put together and it uses staples that you probably already have in your fridge and pantry. You can also add leftover veggies to this to give an extra punch to this yummy breakfast! The basic burrito recipe is as follows:

• 1 whole grain burrito shell
• 2 T refried or black beans
• 1 T salsa
• 2 T shredded...

This might be one of my all time favorite chilis for the fall—it combines the classic beans and meat, but with a fun pumpkin twist! I have made this recipe in both the slow cooker and the instant pot; both are delicious! It’s warm and comforting, and my little guy will eat this most days :).

I follow the recipe exactly as written, except I bump up the spices as follows: 1.5 T cumin, 1.5 T chili powder and I also add a teaspoon of...

Over the summer I had the most amazing salad with pickled red onions and started my search for a quick and easy recipe. This one has four simple ingredients and it’s quick and easy. The pickling juice mellows out the kick of the red onion and enhances its sweetness.

I made these onions to use on pork carnitas, but pickled onions are also great on burgers, sandwiches, salads or as a garnish on many side dishes, such as black beans....

I’m such a huge fan of Mexican and Southwestern cuisines! The flavors are so delectable and classic, I try to find new recipes which highlight those flavors of cumin and garlic. Carnitas are my go-to order when out to eat and I decided to experiment with this recipe and it was a huge hit! The limes and orange add an amazing citrus flavor, and the spices that are rubbed into the pork are simple perfection!

I followed this recipe...

Happy Fall Y’all! Autumn calls for warm, comforting food that nourishes our bodies and souls. This easy apple pie oatmeal for one is my go-to breakfast for a rainy fall morning! It keeps me fueled throughout the morning and tastes so amazing;). And kiddos love it!

• Quick oats
• 1/2 Apple, washed and diced
• 1 t cinnamon
• 1 T raisins
• 1 T walnuts, almonds or any nut you like
• Hemp seed...

With September comes all the things Fall—colorful leaves, cooler nights, football and comforting soups and chilis! This one is super easy, healthy and is great for a weeknight dinner or football Sunday with family and friends!

https://amindfullmom.com/instant-pot-white-chicken-chili/

The finished product is so flavorful and a tiny bit spicy;...

Summer is winding down, but that doesn’t mean grill season is ending! We love grilling shrimp as they are so versatile and take on whatever flavor you choose;). I gave these beauties a BBQ flavor and they turned out delicious. I typically buy large, uncooked frozen shrimp from Costco, and take out a bunch the night before to defrost in the fridge. Rinse well, pat dry, then get to work!

• 1-2 pound fresh or frozen, defrosted...

Fresh salsa is so easy to make and is so versatile! I love doing this simple corn and black bean salsa in the summer, as corn is at its peak of freshness and who doesn’t love farm fresh corn!!!

• 4 ears of corn, cooked and cut off the cob
• 14.5 oz can of black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 jalapeño, finely diced
• 2 limes, juiced
• 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 finely diced red or green onions...

Turkey burgers are a great swap for standard beef burgers and you still have that satisfied feeling of enjoying a juicy, grilled burger!

The most important things to consider when grilling with turkey is to add a lot of seasoning, as turkey tends to be very bland, and to be careful not to over cook, as turkey can dry out.

• 1 1/4 pound ground turkey (we use 93/7)
• 3-5 T Dry Hidden Valley Ranch Seasoning (sub any...

Asparagus has been popping up at our local farmer’s market and it’s one of my all time favorite veggies! My dad grew it in our garden when I was young, but I never fully appreciated its beautiful color and unique flavor until adulthood. We love roasting it in the winter, but during the summer we always prepare it grilled!

When buying asparagus, look for bunches that are similar in diameter and try to buy the thinnest stalks you can...

It’s grilling season and this recipe will satisfy your cravings for a juicy, filling burger. The turkey and diced veggies give the patty lots of moisture and flavor and the wheat bun just elevates the yumminess. I made mine into smaller patties for sliders and served alongside a basic chopped salad. YUM YUM! Xoxo

...

Summertime boasts the most amazingly ripe and juicy farmer’s market tomatoes and freshly grown lettuce, so that is why I only make BLATs (bacon, lettuce, avocado, and tomoato!) in the summer and early fall! They are a quick, filling and easy dinner for those busy and warm summer nights, and they taste even better on your patio or deck with a side of fresh watermelon or basic pasta salad. This recipe makes 2 sandwiches, but just double for a...

Summertime is all about the SALADS! With the fresh, seasonal produce we have available to us all spring and summer long, I use what’s currently in season to create the easiest and yummiest lunches and dinners! This salad can be made ahead with the dressing on the side, or make and serve at mealtime and add any protein you like to create a full dinner—chicken, salmon or shrimp!

• Baby greens, 2 c packed
• 1 nectarine, rinsed...

Take the messy paints outside with a nice cold twist in this activity! The supplies are cheap to buy and you probably already have them at home.

Supplies:

1. Plasticware

2. Tray, tub, or aluminum pan

3. Water

4. Watercolor paint with brush

Directions:

1. Put ice piece into tray

2. Paint

3. Let kids go as the paint melts

Take any shaped plastic...

Happy Summer, beautiful mamas!

This is the very easiest of sweet berry smoothies using all the berries that are in season right now. You don’t need any added sugar because of the natural sweetness of these seasonal fruits and this is packed with lots of protein!

This recipe makes 2-3 servings and is kiddo approved! Woot woot!

• 1 c rinsed and chopped fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries or...

https://chocolatecoveredkatie.com/ is an awesome healthy dessert blog where I stumbled across this recipe for Chocolate Banana “Ice Cream.” The finished product is smooth and creamy like soft serve that will satisfy your sweet tooth! You’ll love it!

• 3 bananas (See instructions below)
• 1/4 tsp pure vanilla extract
• pinch salt
• 3 tbsp cocoa powder

Let...

Summertime calls for grilling with easy side dishes for those evenings that are too hot to cook! I love this salad so much because you can eat it hot or cold and it tastes delicious both ways;). It’s a great salad to pack for a picnic with the kiddos while you are hanging at the playground or a family picnic after baseball or the park.

• Cooked cheese tortellini
• 1/4-1/2 c prepared pesto
• 1/4 c sundried tomatoes...

Grilling season is upon us and this is a recipe I came up with a decade ago after I had an amazing turkey burger filled with diced veggies at a friend’s BBQ. The veggies and soy add lots of flavor and moisture, which turkey burgers need.

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1/2 red pepper, diced very small
• 2-3 T diced fresh scallions or red onion
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 c soy sauce
• Fresh ground...

These delicious muffins are sweetened by a small amount of maple syrup and the natural sweetness of apples and applesauce. I love baking with Kodiak Cake because of the added protein and simplicity. It’s a game changer.

I followed the recipe exactly as written, but would suggest doubling this particular recipe if you want a big batch, because as written, this only makes 6 muffins. I enjoyed this yummy treat with an iced coffee...

My muffin obsession continues, ladies! This recipe uses Kodiak Cake mix that has a whopping 14 grams of protein! Plus the use of Greek yogurt packs even more of a protein punch. Perfect for little growing bodies! This recipe also incorporates frozen berries, which is super convenient if you have some stashed away in the freezer. I subbed olive oil for the coconut oil and skipped the melting step, and the muffins turned out...

This dish is such a classic Italian comfort food from my East Coast home, but I’ve put a healthy spin in it, where you don’t lose any of the flavor and it is surprisingly light and very satisfying. It’s served over quinoa instead of rice, pasta or on a roll. This dish works best with an outdoor grill, but you could also use an indoor grill or grill pan!

• Chicken or turkey sausages (I used chicken & apple)
• Mini assorted...

As moms, some of us survive on large amounts of caffeine that would take down a large animal, but sometimes coffee is a necessity after a long night up with the kiddos or a long day at work! As the spring turns to summer, one of my favorite afternoon treats is a cold brew coffee with a splash of milk. The cold brew process really makes the coffee taste smooth and light with zero hint of acidity.

This recipe was perfected by two...

Smoothies are a staple in our house and an easy way to get your kiddos to eat their greens. I use Greek yogurt when I’m sharing this smoothie with Luke, and I use protein powder when I’m having the entire smoothie. I love this smoothie because of the simple ingredients and the chocolatey peanut taste — think a healthy Reece’s cup :) Feel free to adjust the amounts of ice and milk as needed based on if you like a thinner or thicker, icier...

Pot roast is a dish I ate growing up, as it was cheap, quick and easy, and provides great leftovers. I love this recipe because it shortens the time of cooking a 3-4 pound roast and the finished product is fabulous! The meat shreds beautifully, the carrots are tender and flavored by the meat, Au jus is ready made for you and it’s a pretty hearty, but also a healthy meal when served with mashed cauliflower or quinoa.

A few tips:...

I’m about to rock your world! Quinoa that’s perfectly done every single time!!!!!! SAY WHAT? It’s super easy, versatile and freezes so easily for future use. We use it on salads and as a swap for rice or pasta. And grilling season is almost upon us. Grill up for fish, chicken or veggies, and serve your deliciousness over cooked quinoa.

• 1 c quinoa, rinsed and drained well
• 2 c any stock (chicken,...

I always ate popcorn as a child and we did it “old skool” — on the stove in a big pot! I love the crunch and saltiness of popcorn, but the prepared microwave popcorns have so much sodium and ingredients I can’t even pronounce. A few weeks ago I saw popcorn kernels at Trader Joe’s and thought how fun it would be to pop this with Luke! We literally laughed the whole time the kernels popped, and not giggling, but hearty belly laughs!! I...

During the chilly winter months, we crave warmth from our foods, but also want to keep it healthy, easy and light with salads! This dish is the perfect mix of both - a hearty salad topped with warm roasted veggies and lots of different sweet, salty and crunchy textures. It’s vegetarian, but you could also add meat or fish for added protein!

• 1/2 c cooked quinoa
• 2 c lightly packed “sturdy” greens (spinach, kale, chard, or...

We LOVE the snow and have had so much fun sledding and being outside. When we come inside to warm up, inside time calls for experimenting in the kitchen. Enter the easiest almond butter ever!!!!!

I am slightly obsessed with almond butter. I use it on whole grain toast and English muffins, in smoothies, and on apple slices. Luke eats it in tortillas as well. We eat it every single day. I love the Costco brand as it is natural and so...

It is hard for little hands to write names on those tiny, glossy Valentine cards! Mailing labels to the rescue! Have your child write on the labels and stick them on the Valentine.

We used address sized, but return address sized ones are even smaller. No labels? Check the dollar store! Wanna be fancy? Try washi tape!

Kiddo can make as many as needed and any typos or accidents wont use up a precious Valentine!

Happy Super Bowl Sunday Mamas!!!!

Sunday is a such a fun day to celebrate our favorite teams, watch the best commercials and half time show AND spend time with our friends and family. It’s one of our favorite days of the year! I tend to do food in crockpots to keep them warm and ready for game time! This easy, healthy marinara is a game changer — ha! See what I did there;)

• 28 oz can of crushed...

My son, Luke, will be turning 5 in February, and like many kiddos, can be very opinionated when it comes to food. :)

He tends to avoid most things that contain protein, with the exception of beans. In an effort to up his protein, Luke and I worked together to create a basic smoothie that is packed with protein and tastes like a berry milkshake. It’s great fun that we can make this smoothie together and he sees how this healthy...

Who loves sensory bins/tables?

My children love them so much I continue to use them despite the mess they create! This great activity can be adapted to fit the age of your child based on the puzzles you choose. For my 4 year old I used an ABC puzzle, and for my 3 year old I used a shape puzzle. This is the creative part for us moms- pick one of those puzzles they have done a million times and bring new fun into...

As a native East Coaster, I grew up eating authentic Italian food and crave it quite frequently. It’s the ultimate in comfort food that is also kiddo approved! This dish cures my craving for a basic spaghetti and meatballs without the heaviness that I usually feel after eating a pasta dinner! I replaced pasta with my new favorite...... sweet potato ribbons. Another simply genius invention from Trader Joe’s!

• Trader Joe’s Sweet...

I LOVE a good, hearty soup in the winter months. It’s warms the soul and heart. Many classic “cream” soups tend to be heavy, but this chowder is fairly light without missing the comfort and heartiness factor that you sometimes need on a cold, rainy night. I tweaked this recipe from Damn Delicious to make a lighter soup that’s a bit healthier than traditional chowders. I hope you enjoy! Xoxo

INGREDIENTS:

• 4 slices bacon,...

Traveling for the Holidays? Just need 10 minutes peace and quiet?

Grab a handful of popsicle sticks and print 11 free templates from https://teachingmama.org/?s=Snowflake

And boom! Instant Snowflake Busy Bag!

No popsicle sticks? Grab wooden coffee stirrers with your next latte!

Want to be fancy? Older kiddos can color or paint plain sticks (bonus...

We are lovers of everything Brussels sprouts, but this recipe elevated the yummy roasted flavor of this favorite seasonal veggie! The parmesan adds a salty crunch to this dish and this easy side pairs well with pasta, a grilled meat or even as an appetizer. This would also be great as a holiday side. I’ve found that smaller sprouts tend to work best as well as fresh grated Parmesan, if you can. Also, this veggie can take a good bit of...

I was inspired to create this from an enchilada recipe at Cactus and a delightful conversation I had with Stroller Strides instructor Christy during a Stroller Strides eons ago! I affectionately call it the “Christy Scramble!”

• Can of black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 pound of roasted butternut squash
• 2 c baby...

This is an easy recipe and a crowd pleaser! I used the multi color carrots from Trader Joe’s, but any carrot will do. Use fresh thyme if you can— it makes a huge difference. The carrots will get all caramelized and yummy when the sugar starts to release. Yummy! Enjoy;). Xoxo

...

You know my obsession with pumpkin, and it doesn’t end in the fall! These muffins have a mellow pumpkin flavor with a cool texture due to the oats in place of standard flour. And I am loving that you put all of the ingredients in a blender and the batter is ready to go! I have made these in mini muffin form and frozen for use in lunchboxes or to accompany my afternoon coffee. Enjoy, sweet mamas and enjoy the last few weeks of this...

I’m in serious love with my slow cooker. I plop some ingredients in her in the morning, then by dinner time, when we are all famished, a yummy meal is ready to rock and roll!

I’ve made different chicken enchilada soups over the years, but I just tried this one and it’s my favorite! Really simple to put together, healthy, filling ingredients and great for a cool fall or winter night. Mine took about 6.5 hours on low, but my crockpot...

This fun craft/toddler activity is brought to you by one of my favorite toddler bloggers! Busy Toddler is an amazing mom who you should follow on Pinterest or Instagram. Bonus she is local and is actually neighbors with one of our instructors!

For this activity you will make a water bottle into a turkey. Then your child will practice those fine motor skills and use tongs to feed the turkey with pom-pom balls. This alone,...

I’m always looking for things that my 4.5 year old will happily eat. He’s great at trying things, but not always liking them. These “fries” are super, super easy to prepare because the preparation of the crinkle cut squash is already done for you — thank God for Trader Joe’s!

I’ve tried these several times and the key is to bake them until they are crisp and slightly brown at the edges. It works best if you spread them out on a...

Happy Fall, y’all! This simple and filling dinner uses staples you probably already have on hand. It’s utilizes the seasonal fall vegetables that are plentiful this time of year. The veggies are the star, so load up on them. Plus, it’s kiddo friendly!!

Ingredients:

• 1/2 lb of your favorite pasta (I used spinach ravioli from Trader Joe’s)
• Your favorite pasta red sauce (I used Trader Joe’s Autumnal...

A fun and not-so-spooky holiday craft!

Materials:

• Egg Carton (will make 4 bats)
• Black acrylic or tempera paint
• Scissors
• Paintbrush
• Pipe Cleaners/String/Ribbon
• Googly Eyes/Chalk/white marker

Instructions:

-Remove lid from carton (we used for paint pallet)

-Take egg carton lower piece and cut in half down vertical center

-...

The nights are getting chilly and it’s the perfect soup weather! This soup is super flavorful, filling and healthy! It’s full of fresh veggies and herbs. The fresh herbs and cheese rind in the soup are what give it a fresh, deep flavor. I served this with whole wheat grilled cheese or would be great with crusty bread or crackers. Enjoy, my sweet mamas!

Xoxo

...

This awesome and easy recipe from Kim’s Cravings was a big hit with Luke and my hubby! If you have a can of pumpkin purée and Kodiak Mix in your pantry, whip these little disks of fall deliciousness right up ;). I used 2 t of pumpkin pie spice and added a T of brown sugar for a touch of sweetness. They take a few extra minutes of each side to cook, but keep a close eye.

These don’t even need syrup—I served mine along side sliced...

PUMPKIN SEASON!

I am one of those crazy pumpkin people, and I absolutely love fall! These muffins combine the flavors of our favorite seasonal fruits and veggies to create the most flavorful, warm and healthy treat! Not too sweet, but perfect with a cup of coffee in the afternoon. The recipe is simple; honestly the most difficult part is grating the carrot and apple. I omitted the frosting, but added some mini chocolate chips to...

One of my favorite things about fall in the PNW is the beautiful colored leaves on the trees. Recreate those beautiful trees outside your house with this fun and easy handprint tree. To do this fun craft with your child go find that old puzzle with pieces missing or stop by a dollar store and pick one up. Sit back with the yummy pumpkin spice latte as your little ones glue on all their puzzle...

I love fall! And it’s almost here....Soup, sweatshirts, football, Uggs!!!!!! This is one of the BEST chili recipes I have ever made, like ever. Luke even gobbled it up. You can make the recipe as is or feel free to use my tweaked spice measurements. I upped the amounts of cumin, chili powder onion, garlic and oregano, plus I added pumpkin pie spice and a pinch of cayenne.

There are instructions in the link below for the Instapot...

am obsessed with quinoa and eat it several times per week. This is a cool and easy way to change up a classic staple. It’s 3 simple ingredients: quinoa, coconut milk and lime. I did this in the Instapot, but there are also directions for a rice cooker. It turned out so flavorful and creamy with a hint of sweetness! I served it with grilled salmon and mango salsa. You could also serve this with shrimp, mahi mahi or chicken plus any...

This is a great "wing it" recipe using things you probably have on hand!

I always have cooked quinoa around, and it’s so easy using it as a base for a healthy and filling bowl! I honestly use whatever veggies and proteins I have in the fridge, pantry or freezer to put together a quick lunch or dinner. Each component shines alone, but put what you like together in a bowl it’s just that much more super fresh and filling! I had sweet...

A quick and easy prep (60 sec) for oodles of fun!

Supplies:

• Zip-top storage bags
• Shaving cream (ours from Dollar Tree)
• Food Dye or Washable paint
• Package or Painter’s Tape

Directions:

Roll down zip-top storage bag and squeeze food dye or paint into corners, slowly fill up bag with shaving cream, layering in more dye/paint if you want. Lay flat and...

Summer tomatoes and peaches are the stars of this salad! Because they are in season now, and super sweet, this simple salad really shines and all of the simple ingredients meld together to create the perfectly flavor-balanced summer salad!

• 2 c loosely packed spinach (can sub arugula or spring mix)
• 1/2 ripe peach, diced
• 1/2 c sweet cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 T diced red onion (can sub scallions)
• 2 T...

Remember growing up when your grandmom would boil brussel sprouts until they were mushy and flavorless?!?

These easy, flavorful sprouts are a complete 360 from those days! This is a great appetizer or an awesome side dish to accompany any pasta or protein. These rarely make it off the baking tray into a dish because my husband and I gobble them up! Barefoot Contessa seasons with just salt and pepper, which is fabulous—very simple...

With zucchini in season and coming off the vine like nobody’s business, these easy tots are a great switch-up from the classic zucchini bread. These are mama, husband and kiddo approved! Triple win! I serve these with two sides: ranch and sriracha ketchup (add a few drops of sriracha to your favorite ketchup)! I love that Skinnytaste makes this recipe with simple ingredients, big taste, but also healthy!

Enjoy! Xo

...

During these hot summer months, I love to make a big summer salad in the beginning of the week and eat it during the week for dinner with some kind of protein — usually grilled fish or chicken. This salad is simple to put together and versatile, as you can use the veggies you have on hand. It is great for easy lunch prep, as well!

• 1 lb whole wheat penne
• 1/2 c prepared or homemade pesto
• 2 c fresh baby spinach...

I typically don’t use my slow cooker much in the summer, however, I love this recipe during those hot summer days when you want something light and filling but don’t want to heat up your oven!

It works great for meal prep (I typically prep 5 servings in 3-cup rectangular Pyrex containers) OR for an easy dinner!

Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, rinsed
• 1 jar salsa OR 1 1/4 cups
• 14.5 oz can...

We are loving this warm PNW summer, especially grilling almost every night. This easy grilled shrimp is so tasty and won’t overheat your kitchen. It’s super quick and the final dish is super fresh and light.

• 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Juice of one large lime
• 3 Tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ¼ teaspoon...

SUMMER!

'Tis the season for grilling! We usually grill our entire dinner and spend our evening on our deck soaking in the rays. This recipe is SO easy and tastes like a million bucks.

• 2 mahi mahi filets (I love Costco frozen Filets)
• 2 T Pesto
• Olive oil
• Salt, pepper
• 1-2 crowns of fresh broccoli, cut into small florets

Rinse and dry mahi filets. Drizzle both sides with olive oil,...

It’s SUMMER which means travel for many of us. Do you find yourself anxious on how to keep your little ones busy on the upcoming car rides, plane trips, or dinners out with friends and family? I have a solution to keeping those kids busy and happy while you travel. BUSY BAGS to the RESCUE! The ideas for these bags are endless and Pinterest has tons of samples, free printable, and activities for every age.

The idea is a simple one,...

This recipe looks like a million bucks plated, but is SO simple to prepare! And it’s filling and healthy.

• 2 fresh salmon filets
• Cajun seasoning
• 1 cup cooked farro
• 1 T butter
• Sliced small onion
• 1-2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach
• 1/2 lemon

Preheat oven to 450. Rinse salmon and gently pat dry. Season to taste with a Cajun seasoning and rub liberally...

1. How to make a cloud in a jar!

   Materials Needed:

   • 1/3 cup hot water
   • Empty glass jar with lid
   • 3-5 ice cubes
   • Hairspray

   How To:

   • Add 1/3 hot water to glass jar and swirl around sides for 5 seconds. (I used hot tap water)
   • Put lid on upside down and place ice cubes on top of lid
   • Wait 20 seconds to allow condensation to...

This salad is one of my new go-tos for summer. Easy to put together, keeps well in the fridge as a side dish or makes an easy meal prep for weekly lunches! The star of this dish is fresh dill! If you haven’t tried dill, you will be pleasantly surprised! Add seafood or chicken for an easy dinner.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup dried lentils (preferably small French lentils
• 1 large garlic clove,...

Luke is starting swimming lessons this week during dinner time, so I prepped this scrumptious Mediterranean Farro Salad to grab and go. Meal prep/planning has been integral to achieving my health and fitness goals this year. This was a super easy salad to put together with lots of big flavors that mesh really well. I also added some cherry tomatoes and used fresh herbs in place of dried. I will add 2T of feta before eating.

Enjoy!!...

So I’m cheating on my crockpot this week and sharing one of our healthy family favorite comfort foods — turkey meatloaf! I’ve tried a ton of turkey meatloaf recipes over the years, seriously maybe 10+, and this is the best one I’ve tried, by far. It has a zing from the ketchup and Worcestershire, is moist and comforting, but healthy! My almost 4 year old will even eat this (after protesting that he doesn’t like it, of course). ;)

A few...

Do your kids love playing in the snow? Make it yourself in the warmth of your home and the kids can get hours of playtime with it. And as an added bonus it will make your house and their hands smell amazing! If placed in a sealed or air tight container the “snow” will last for several days.

Ingredients:

3 cups of Baking Soda

1/2 cup hair conditioner (white or clear colored preferred to keep the snow...

What if you have a picky eater?

Toddlers seem to be innately selective when it comes to food and what they will and will not eat. It can be very frustrating and occasionally worrisome for parents.

It sounds easy enough, but we as mothers and fathers know all too well that our little mini me’s are stubborn and have their own will. It can take 20 or more introductions to a new food before your child will even taste it. If your child...

I’ll let you in on a little secret: I have a love affair with my crockpot. I love her. She’s efficient, beautiful and makes life superb (much like us hot mamas).

The beauty of slow cooking is whatever you put in there is going to be delicious; it doesn’t matter if you are a novice in the kitchen or a domestic goddess. I use it 2-3 times per week, put together the ingredients in the morning (or night before), turn it on low in the AM and...

Happy New Year to all of you beautiful mamas! I am so excited to share my love of cooking with you each week, where I will prepare easy, healthy meals, many of them kiddo friendly! My son even helped prepare this with me.

Here’s a gem I’ve been making for many years; it’s so well loved I have it written down on a hot pink post-it note. It’s easy, filling and makes your house smell like the most amazing apple pie is baking.

First,...