I grew up in Western South Dakota, one of the most beautiful places in the US. I am the oldest of 4 children, with working parents I began to cook early on. Luckily, my mom is a fantastic cook and baker, I learned all the basics about cooking from her. I am a seasonal cook, therefore my favorite things to cook depend on which season we are in. Christmas Cookies. Christmas is my favorite time of year, mostly because of all the baking my family does. It is the season I first started baking as a small child, now my kids bake with me. I married a man whose family is from Spain, where he was born. His parents are both amazing cooks. I have learned a great deal about mediterranean cooking and grilling from my in-laws. I never burn anything, but one time I burned an omelette. My husband will not let me live it down. To this day I leave all the omelette making to him.