I learned to cook on a dairy farm in Minnesota. That’s where I grew up. My menu planning comes from my knowledge of what’s abundant in American agriculture, as well as my exposure to what’s best in European and more exotic cuisines.

Though I’ve trained with world-famous cooks, I continue to study with master chefs, because professional cooks never stop learning. That's why I have also created Therapeutic-Coaching. Through the Therapeutic Coaching Program taught at the Meta Institute in Minneapolis, a 13-month, 400-hour program, I have learned a variety of skills, techniques and disciplines that can now be applied in my cooking classes.

But no matter how far I wander, I always come back to my earthly principles: seasonal foods are the most delicious and healthy for you, combining the best available ingredients with tried and true techniques results in sumptuous dining.

My seven cookbooks reflect years of practice in the culinary arts. And with regular newspaper columns, that include seasonal recipes, I offer an open forum for all food lovers, even if they can’t attend my classes.

Please email me so we can work together to find the perfect culinary or catering experience to meet your needs. I can teach you the skills of gourmet cooking. Remember, there are no secrets in good cooking…but I’ll still tell you a few.