I developed Southwestern tastebuds and a love for cooking growing up in Houston and Santa Fe. I honestly couldn't live happily without an abundant supply of chilies, peppers and spices.

Somewhere along the way, I also developed a sweet tooth or, more likely, inherited it from my Dad. As far as I'm concerned, anything is good if it's made out of dark chocolate. And I ascribe to the philosophy: life is uncertain, eat dessert first.

Enjoy life!