i love to cook. i grew up in southern california, so our food ranged from mexican to german (my heritage), sushi, thai, hawaiian, and anything else you can imagine. I love trying new ingredients and reinventing old food ideas to update them and make them healthier. I especially like trying new produce that I haven't used before but i'm a meat and potatoes girl most of the time :) mexican food, casseroles, bread, pasta dishes. i've tried cookies, but they never come out quite right. dad makes salisbury steak, cabbage rolls, enchiladas and lots of meat and potato dishes. mom makes mean fish and veggies and tasty desserts. my recipes include these traditional foods along with my own cultural experiences from living in santa barbara, los angeles and georgia. two words...cinnamon bread :P christmas cookies. every year. it's the thought that counts, right?