By the end of the winter, I'm always battling too-tight pants. My solution: Eat lean protein, good grains, and veggies.

I used to think of Mexican food as a once-in-a-while type of thing because it can be so heavy, but I learned how to lighten it up easily and keep it just as flavorful. That's awesome, since it's the perfect festive dinner for hanging out with friends on a relaxed night.

Working on my first novel, 'Groundswell' - about a woman recovering from a bad breakup who falls in love with surfing - I spent a month south of the border. And when I wasn't writing or surfing, I was eating. A lot.

I like a good burger as much as the next girl, but sometimes, I say hold the beef. In fact, every week, I do Meatless Monday to feel a little healthier.

I love cooking except for an annoying step - cleaning up.

Holiday shopping is a challenge. Stores are crowded; people are stressed and rude... not exactly the spirit of the season.

I'd rather spend my Sunday doing just about anything other than watching a football game - unless it's the Super Bowl.

Spritzers are festive yet economical. By adding seltzer and juice, you stretch the number of people a bottle of wine serves.

Some guys find eating face-to-face weirdly intense. But sitting on the same side of the table allows both intermittent physical contact and eye contact.

I think any man can be won over by being fed my Chicken with Roasted Garlic, Pancetta, and Rosemary.