Freezing, in fact! Want to make your holidays easier than ever? Just hit the freezer! That's right. Every meal you cook, double up and put the second in the freezer for a night you just can't stand the thought of thinking up another meal. Some of the things I've found perfect for freezing are: - lasagne, spaghetti... almost anything Italian! - soups and stews, especially my White Chicken Chili...

You CAN have a holiday party that you actually enjoy YOURSELF! No way, you're thinking, but I'm here to tell you it CAN be done! And it's really easy, if you'll just learn to say 'YES!' Decide when you'd like to gather and with whom. Want to have a theme? Cookie decorating? Wine and cheese? Champage and chocolate? YOU decide. Then pick up the phone and call your friends. Impromptu gathering,...

Well, do yourself a favor this year. Decide on ONE gift and then make a dozen of them... or more, depending on your list. One friend of mine buys a case of nice wine every year, bags, tags and sits them on the shelf, waiting for the right gifting moment. No more last minute frenzy, looking for paper, ribbon and wrapping. Wine not your thing? How about some gourmet nuts or candies, a special jar...