I am a married, working mom of one son. I come from a family with very little adventure in the kitchen. You could predict the general menu from week to week growing up. My mom is a fabulous cook, but the guys in my family didn't like anything w/too much flavor & were quick to turn up their nose at new ideas. However, my husband & son are brave! They will always try new things w/me and encourage me to be adventuresome. My husband is also a good cook and taught me much of what I know. My tastes have grown tremendously over the years, and I love hearing the praise for a new dish. Living in Texas means that Tex-Mex is a must, and anything with a Southern flare. We grill year-round and I think that chicken is the absolutely MOST versitile ingredient in the kitchen. I love casseroles and making fresh baked deserts for my family and friends. My mother-in-law and I delight in creating a new, adventuresome family menu when we get everyone together for the holidays. We love "testing" new recipes on the whole family, and usually get away with it as long as we are sure to include some family favorites & staples as well. For a girl who could barely make mac & cheese when she married 20 years ago, I am most proud that my entire family (immediate & extended) now request some of my dishes and expecially baked goods. I am famous for my apple pie, am told I make a better lazagna than either my or my husband's mom, and I never miss with "Texas Ranch Chicken" (a favorite Allrecipes find). Don't ever forget to put the sugar into your 4-berry pie. It turns out pretty puckery!!!