I have spent many days watching and learning from Julia about everything food. I’m not a trained chef at a culinary institute but given my Italian-Irish roots I also spent many, many hours with my Italian grandmother and the teachings of great and authentic Italian cooking.  As well, I also spent many days with my Irish grandmother who in her own right had a mean tomato sauce as well as the Irish fare. Both of my grandmothers helped raise me to have an appreciation of food and family, and I will share with you what my grandmothers, my mother, and others have taught me about cooking, party planning, and just plain having fun!!

Hey, I do have other stuff to say.  My other passion and pride is Syracuse University. I’m an alum and I love spending the fall and winter months in the JMA Wireless AKA Carrier Dome with my family watching the Orange play football and basketball.

As many who know I have a son James who passed away on October 14, 2020. My life forever changed on that day. James had a bright future as a graduate of my alma mater Syracuse University  (this is where my heart is full of pride). Although his degree was in economics I always thought he would end up in a caregiving profession. He is with me in every breath I take.

 I was raised in a family who always had a lot of fun gathering in the kitchen to create the next great dish! My greatest memories are gathering in Grandma Sue’s kitchen with my cousins to eat, talk and laugh. We all need to bring back those days in the American family!