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TOP JOBS

Spring means all things are new and fresh. As the Tyler Paper's new Food Editor, I hope to bring things new and fresh to the Food section each week.

I believe Food readers should be involved in its content, and in that spirit, I will incorporate ideas for young families as well as empty nesters now downsizing dinnertime. I want to make sure readers have options for mealtime, no matter their circumstances, so I'll look for ideas on a budget as well.

I came to the Tyler Paper just over a year ago as its News Editor, but after having a baby, this opportunity seemed a better fit. I want to write about things relevant to my life as well, so I'll be learning new things right along with you all.

You should know I am always on the move and keep a packed schedule. Now I just do it with a baby under one arm and a cell phone in the other hand. Meals often have been a last priority, so I know a thing or two about having to be motivated to cook.

The baby will be a year old in October, and by that time eating off the table some. So, I will have to get our family meals in check in preparation for that day. Maybe it means better organization in the home? Maybe it means time management? I'll explore those things in the Food section as well.

My husband and I both work in fast-moving career fields. He's a police officer and often works odd shifts. He refuses to eat sandwiches. Herein lies the problem.

So I am always seeking inventive lunches he can eat in the squad car, yet stay healthy. He's a runner, so that's a good start. I, on the other hand, don't run unless I'm being chased.

I don't want to give the impression I cannot cook, because I can. I just need a solid menu plan, a well-thought-out shopping list, a good recipe with explicit directions and time to do all of it.

I love to bake, so among the healthiest planning, I will have to sneak in a few goodies here and there.

I guess I'll share my biggest shame. I am addicted to chocolate cake (especially the fudge cake from the Cheesecake Factory) with vanilla ice cream. I can't pass those little morsels up, so I'll be on the lookout for healthy alternatives to sway my mind when I choose a sweet recipe for the week.

But it won't all be calorie counts and wagging fingers. I'll have the traditional "good stuff" available, too.

I look forward to the future of the Food section.

Send me an e-mail at food@tylerpaper.com, or give me a call at 903-596-6247. I'll be happy to hear your ideas and swap good recipes.