What would we do without family and friends? They’re the reason we get together to share our stories and recipes, and in many cases, the reason we cook! Here are a few of my loved ones who share my passion for cooking, laughing and coming together.
Ron and Marcy –
Summer 2019
Marcy and Ron are the best sister-in-law and brother-in-law anyone could ask for. As you can tell by Marcy’s shirt, we’re definitely beach people! They’ve certainly been a gift to the family. Over the years, we’ve shared our thoughts, dreams, and memories with them.
Elizabeth, Tom, and their two sons, Luke and Tyler – Fall 2018
Here is my lovely niece Elizabeth and her husband, Tom, with their two sons, Luke and Tyler. As a young teenager, she’d join us on countless summer family vacations to the beach and create memorable seafood dishes with her Uncle Cubby.
Stacie and me –
Summer 2019
I’ve known Stacie since she was a senior in high school. She worked with me back in my CHANEL days in the 90’s and we’re still great friends today. Now that she’s married and has an adorable daughter, we try to get together every year at our favorite place in Seaside.
Me and Pam way back in Fall of ‘74!
My wonderful and crazy friend Pam has been in my life since the early 70’s. She was even one of my bride’s maids back in 1975! It’s very comforting to have a friend who’s always there for you, who has your back, and who makes you laugh at yourself.
Cub and me at Izanami in Santa Fe – Fall 2018
My late husband, Cub—better known as Cubby to close friends and family—was a great cook who taught me everything I know about combining flavors and textures. “I cooked ever since I can remember,” he said. “You could always find me at my local grocery store, looking for different things to try.”
Ryan and Gina – Fall 2019
Both my eldest son, Ryan, and his wife, Gina, love to cook and share their favorite recipes. Gina grew up in a large family in Deming, New Mexico, a big difference from Ryan’s big-city lifestyle in Dallas, Texas. Talk about a perfect mixture of Tex-Mex flavors and style!
Austen and Harley – Summer 2019
This is my youngest son, Austen, and his eldest daughter, Harley. Even though he lives and works in New Mexico at the family business, he’s a true Texas boy at heart! Harley is now a teenager, but she’s never too busy to still help her Gigi in the kitchen.
Ariana –
Summer 2018
Austen’s youngest daughter, Ariana, is now 8 years old and enjoys watching Gigi in the kitchen, always asking questions, and learning from both Gigi and her big sister.
THEN: Me and Bobby – Studio Club
Dallas, TX – May 1974
Last but certainly not least, sometimes love finds you when you least expect it. Bobby, the unexpected love of my life, has been in my life for over 60 years, as he was my brother Steve’s best friend since junior high. Now, we are sharing a life filled with love, traveling to new places, discovering different foods, and cooking up adventures together. We’re truly living our best lives!
 NOW: Santa Fe Plaza |
 NOW: Harry’s Roadhouse – Santa Fe |
 Harley takes after her Gigi! |
 Harley, age four, wearing her favorite apron from Jen Rosie of Hot Mama Aprons – December 2011 |
 Me and the girls – Christmas 2018 |
 Me and Harley at the Santa Fe School of Cooking – Summer 2016 |
 Ryan and Gina with their nieces – Summer 2018 |
 Harley and me enjoying lunch at Izanami in Santa Fe – Summer 2016 |
 We live in the mountains… |
 …but we love the beach! |
Harley and I featured in the May 2013 issue of Albuquerque The Magazine for my green chile cheese and corn chowder recipe. The photographer did a great job creating a portrait of us. It’s one of my favorites.
Harley at the Santa Fe School of Cooking – Summer 2016
