I am a cook and a cat lover. I have been cooking most of my life...learned from Mom, Dad, trial and error. I prefer to: grill, bake desserts, casseroles, soups, stews, egg dishes, Indian, Mexican, salads, and I am in the process of rounding up some Persian recipes. I love most all food and like to try new things all the time. I love to make my sauces, salad dressings, marinades and stock from scratch...so much fresher and flavorful, and you can really use your imagination. I always use the "real deal"----I don't skimp on fat or calories...I would rather eat a very small portion that is amazing, than a larger portion that is mediocre. I mostly eat low-fat and healthy, but if I make mashed potatoes, there is real butter, or if I bake a cake, there is no cutting back on fat or calories. If you eat small, you can eat whatever you like. I have become quite the grill mistress and fantastic baker of cakes and cookies. I don't have any real tragedies.....seems kinda strong, don't you think?