Hansen Happenings

Happy Wednesday morning!

I am feeling exceptionally good today for a few reasons. The first being that it rained last night and I am loving the chilly, gloomy weather that comes along with rain (at least for now)! And secondly, today is my Thursday since I am taking Friday off for the Harvest Festival! I requested the day off ages ago to be sure I would get it! I'm just a little excited!!

Today seemed like a perfect day for a crock pot dinner so I prepared Slow Cooker Chili Chicken Tacos this morning. Yum! And I've got to say, this blog has become a handy little reference for me when it comes to recipes we've really enjoyed. In fact, this week alone I have made Almond Stuffed Chicken, Adobo Rubbed Pork Tenderloin and Peanut Butter and Jam Cookies!

It has occured to me that we are right in the middle of the cold and flu season and somehow, Chris and I have managed to stay under the radar and remain healthy...knock on wood. I'm really hoping it stays that way because we have much planned for the upcoming weeks!

And finally, I just can't believe how quickly the holidays are approaching! It seems a little bittersweet because on one hand, I adore this time of year, but on the other, I am all too aware of how quickly it passes. So I am making a solid effort to sit back and enjoy every single moment, Christmas movie, cup of hot chocolate, family gathering and holiday decoration. I can't wait to spend my second holiday season as a Hansen!



Savor each moment!

Butt Warmers and Slow Cookers

This morning has me in a very pleasant mood. My Mom is out of town this week and left her car with us. Always a nice treat to drive, but this morning called for my favorite accessory of her beautiful hybrid Lexus, the butt warmers! Ahh, the butt warmers! Seriously, I LOVE whoever thought up this brilliant idea! Walking to the car this morning I got a bit chilly, but within 30 seconds, I was feeling nice and toasty:)

For a few months now, Chris and I have been looking at cars. You know, researching cost, durability, maintanence, things we both want in a car, kid proof (for later, of course), dog proof (for now!) etc. This morning it occured to me, butt warmers are not on the list of want/"need" in a new car! What am I thinking?! We may need to do some revising of neccessary perks in the vehicle we decide to get;)

From time to time, I come across something that must be shared. This certain something came from the lovely blog, Laurie B. Lowndes. Last night I made the Slow Cooker Chili Chicken Tacos she posted a few months ago. They were exactly what I hoped they would be, quick and delicious! This literally took me five minutes in the morning to put together! I mean, who doesn't like coming home to an already prepared meal? And who doesn't love delicious Mexican?! Thank you, Laurie, for the great dinner idea! The recipe comes from Martha Stewart, but I have also posted it below.


Slow Cooker Chili Chicken Tacos
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 6)
4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
1/2 cup prepared tomato salsa, plus more for serving (optional)
1 to 2 tablespoons chopped canned chipotle chiles in adobo
1 tablespoon chili powder
Coarse salt and ground pepper
8 hard corn taco shells
Cilantro, shredded cheese, lime wedges, and sour cream, for serving (optional)

In slow cooker, combine chicken, garlic, salsa, chiles, chili powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and teaspoon pepper. Cover; cook on high, 4 hours (or on low, 8 hours).
Transfer chicken to a serving bowl, and shred, using two forks; moisten with cooking juices. Serve in taco shells, with toppings, if desired.