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There are good fats and there are bad fats. The bad fats would be the kind you get from a deep-fried elephant ear at the local state fair. The good fats are the ones that come from vegetables, nuts and fruits. I like the good fats that come from avocados.

Some folks say fruit, some say vegetable, but whichever your preference, the fact is that avocados are delicious and nutritious. They contain monounsaturated fats and are high in beta-sitosterol both of which, studies indicate, are beneficial in lowering blood cholesterol levels. But don't take my word on the health benefits. Dig into those medical journals yourself.

And while you're reading, try this amazing Calavo Guacamole. This all-natural product comes from Charlie's, one of our favorite produce vendors. There are two easy-open pouches of fresh guacamole sealed in a 7 oz vacuum packs. The color is bright green, the texture is smooth with an occasional yummy chunk of avocado, and it's made without preservatives. If you want fresh guacamole on the go, this stuff is great. You can always spice it up with some extra pico de gallo, or fresh chopped cilantro. I like it just as it is.

For dipping I like the Food Should Taste Good gluten free chips. And while you're scooping with these sturdy, flavorful chips, dish up some of the Emerald Valley Salsa--fresh and organic, in hot, medium or mild temperatures. And ok, since you've skipped the deep-fry, indulge in a third dip like the Desert Pepper Spicy Black Bean Dip. Who needs elephant ears?

Happy crunching!--Lisa

Remember your first experiences in the kitchen? Maybe you helped your mom or dad measure sugar for a cake, stirred that big wooden spoon until your little arm ached, maybe you just licked the beaters.
Getting your child to feel comfortable at cooking pays off for everyone. Start by inviting him or her into the kitchen during an unrushed moment, when there is time to instruct and share responsibilities and re-create those happy moments. Cooking with children is a wonderful way to teach, share, and connect and when you're finished, you get to have dessert!

Things can get messy so here are a few tips to help minimize clean-up time.
-- Spread newspapers over tables or countertops.
-- Wear an apron. Small children can wear one of your old T-shirts over clothing.
-- Teach kids to clean as they go (and set a good example yourself).

Here is a great recipe that most every kid will enjoy preparing. I have found that even the pickiest eater still enjoys PIZZA. This recipe allows the kids to be the chef. They can make the pizza of their dreams!

The Perfect Pizza
Prep time: about 15 minutes
Ingredients:
1 standard-sized bagel, cut in half (English muffins also work great)
pizza sauce
shredded mozzarella cheese
toppings: pepperoni, Canadian bacon, mushrooms, bell peppers, pineapple (whatever you like)
seasonings: oregano, basil and parmesan cheese (whatever your favorite pizza toppings are)

Directions:
1. Set the oven to low heat. (325 degrees)
2. Spread tomato sauce on each bagel half or English muffin.
3. Sprinkle the shredded cheese all over the tomato sauce on each half.
4. Add your favorite toppings.
5. Put a light sprinkling of seasonings on each half.
6. Put your bagel halves on the baking sheet (for easy clean up place a piece of tinfoil on the baking sheet).
7. Bake in the oven on 325 for about 5 to 8 minutes. You'll know they're done when the cheese is bubbly.
8. Let cool for a minute, and then enjoy your pizzas.

Stay tuned for more fun recipes that you can enjoy preparing with your little ones!

I'm so sad for the loss of Paul Newman this last year; I think the world is less sparkly without him. But when I'm feeling bereft of the loss of his baby blues, I grab a copy of "Cool Hand Luke" and nuke a bag of Newman's popcorn. For those of you that like to keep it light, try the Newman's Own Organic Microwave Popcorn Unsalted & Fat-free (but beware that the lack of oil sometimes results in a lot of unpopped kernels left in the bag). I prefer either the Butter or Light Butter flavors. And hold onto your hats here, but have you ever tried flax seed oil on your popcorn? Take my word on it--it's pretty darn good. California-based company Spectrum offers a great line of organic flax oils in non-leach plastic bottles. Drizzle a tablespoon--or more if you dare--on the popped corn. Shake on some garlic salt or parmesan. Toss well. Get your omega-3's and your need-for-good-crunching satisfied in each bite. Flip on the tube and enjoy Paul Newman at his finest.