Decided I wanted to cook for a living about a year after HS. Went to certificate program for culinary art in Scottsdale, AZ in 1990. I enjoy creating foods that make the tongue and BODY happy! I like creating all kinds of vegetable salads, some with a lean protein. I've been on a baking phase lately and like to try and make it either sinful or at least a little healthy by reducing sugar and fat, using organic ingredients, and sometimes reduce or eliminate the gluten content. I'm good at creating tasty soups and sandwiches too. Since I've worked at french, italian and southwestern restaurants, I'm practiced at those. One of my favorites was a little Swiss-Italian place where I learned how to make polenta and stew from grandma and grandpa. Lately it's been 'carrot cake oatmeal cookies'- I need to post that recipe! And a SIMPLE (box, I hate to admit) whooppie pie. Also, a favorite has been 'muligatawney stew' and smoked turkey and dumplings... YUM! My husband says I add too much salt sometimes. I guess I try and block out my flops! Lord knows I've done them!