Friday Sunshine

This week's "Friday Sunshine" is a reflection on the past week.  Most weeks have ups and downs. It's important to look back at the series of events... you'll usually find that the ups outweigh out the downs.  Happy Spring!

On Sunday, I spent most of the day with my niece.  Here, we had just had some snacks and were going through my phone looking at recent pictures.  She was interested in every last detail.  She's so smart.

The snow storm on Tuesday was a real bummer! I think we're all ready for Spring.  I've wanted a pair of tortoise ray bans for two years now. (not sure why I haven't just purchased them) Last week I did and they arrived on Tuesday!

I got a flat tire on Wednesday, but, the beauty of living in Southie is that there are local repair shops that take care of you right away. I waited about 15 minutes outside in the crisp air and sunshine while the the shop owner fixed my tire. $20 later and I was off to work.  

It's restaurant week in Boston so I met up with Chris & Rachael for dinner at Post 390.  I am obsessed. The food was phenomenal and the atmosphere was warm, inviting, and comfortable. I will be back, very soon.

The most beautiful Spring roses I've ever seen also arrived on Tuesday. Made more than my just my day :)

In full bloom the next day.

And then, this happened.  

Jenn, you are my sister and one of the very best people I know. Brett, you're a good man. Proud to call you my cousin-bro. I am so happy for you both and I cannot wait to celebrate. Love you lots!

I hope you all have a fantastic weekend! xo.

Whole wheat panko crusted chicken with taters

I think one of the bigger misconceptions about healthy eating is the thought that it's too time consuming to make a proper meal.  That just really isn't the case.  Plus, I feel it is VITAL to make a healthy dinner every night... especially if you have a family.  There are a few staples that should be in your freezer/cabinets that will get you through any week.  

Last week, I posted this meal on my instagram and got enough likes that it deserved a quick little post.

I know organic chicken is more expensive, but, in this country it's really important to eat organic chicken.  The regulations on how chickens are raised are extremely poor.  This is your body, it is the one thing in your WHOLE LIFE that you have 100% control over.  That is a gift, spend a few bucks more.

Here, I had mini red potatoes in my fridge (sweet potatoes are also great this way). Cut them up into tiny little quarters, season with a little bit of extra virgin o/o, salt, & pepper. Place on a parchment paper lined baking sheet and bake (turn halfway through) for about at 400 degress for 25 minutes or until golden and soft in the middle.

I love panko! A couple of weeks ago I bought this whole wheat bag, honestly, it's really not as flavorful as white panko, but, it is healthier.  I've been playing with it to see if I can get better flavor out of it. It's all about the herbs, baby. 

 Here, take your chicken and coat it in egg (organic, please) and then season the panko with herbs de provence, garlic powder, pinch of salt, & crushed red pepper.  Coat the chicken in the panko.  Put on a parchment lined baking sheet and cook for 12 minutes at 400 degrees (just throw it on the same baking sheet as the potatoes).

Toss together some mixed greens, avocado, a tsp of goat cheese, with lemon juice and a splash of extra virgin o/o and dinner is served.  And, it only took a half hour. :)

Let me know if you want to see any modifications. Have a GREAT week!

xo