Wow, it feels like forever since I have been a regular contributor. Sorry about that! I hate to disappoint my loyal readers with a slow few weeks, it’s just been a hectic few. There’s been illness after illness, birthdays, parties, Olympic trips and homecomings. Don’t fret though, I am going to reward those who stuck around with a little taste of my trip to the 2010 Winter Games in Vancouver right now.

What an amazing trip and an experience of a lifetime! Being a local tax payer I was somewhat skeptical for a long time about how the Olympics would affect us, but it’s too late now and I don’t regret being a part of it at all. When I look back at our time spent as a family at such an amazing event, I will be looking back with fondness. “Once in a lifetime” was our trip motto and smiles were plastered on our faces 24 hours a day. A true patriotic spirit is sweeping the city of Vancouver and it is awe inspiring to see it. Walking down a city street filled with more people than I’ve ever seen in my life, all come to one place to share the same things. I couldn’t get over how cool it was. Here’s just a small sample of some of our time spent at the Olympics last week.

Waiting in line with 15,000 other people to see Ladies Freestyle Aerials Qualifying Round

Enjoying a quiet moment at the German Pavilion before lunch rush

Getting our Olympic Spirit in check with big crowds

Some of the less than spectacular views of the Olympic Cauldron, good enough for me…

Downtown Vancouver, Canadian pride can be found almost everywhere

Canadian skier who did not qualify, in her first jump

Enjoying the scenery in Squamish, BC, where we stayed during our trip

I’ll leave you for now with a simple meal that can be made in 30 minutes or less, no fuss, little mess and a happy family at the end. Chicken fajitas are not something we eat a lot of, but I’m beginning to wonder why that is, they are delicious!

Chicken Fajitas

1 tbsp canola oil
3/4 lb chicken breast fillets (or chicken breasts, cut into strips)
1 red pepper, thin strips
1 yellow pepper, thin strips
1 large onion
1 tbsp chili powder
1/2 tsp oregano
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp cumin
1/2 bunch cilantro, minced
salt & pepper
1 lime
1/2 cup chicken stock
flour tortillas to serve in

1. In large, heavy bottomed skillet, heat oil on medium/high. When oil is hot, add in peppers and onions. Cook until almost soft.
2. Add chicken, herbs and spices. Stir and cook for a few minutes.

3. Roll lime along cutting board before cutting into it to loosen up all the juices, squeeze over chicken and vegetables. Add in chicken stock as well. Continue to cook until chicken and vegetables are completely cooked through.
4. Remove from heat and stir in cilantro.
5. Serve family style with accompaniments if desired. We usually have sides of salsa and sour cream, but not much else.

What do you think about the Olympics? Overrated winter sports or a great way to celebrate each countries achievements? I’d love to hear what you have to say!