Everyone knows I am crazy for popsicles — there's no better way to beat the heat on a Summer day. Although avocado is generally used in savory dishes like guacamole, it is a fruit and therefore is perfect for dessert!

These avocado coconut creamsicles are surprisingly delicious and decadent. The avocado, coconut milk, and cream freeze to an exceptionally smooth texture. Because the nutty flavor is incredibly rich and exceptionally filling, a little goes a long way, and next time, I will use a smaller popsicle mold. If you are tempted to experiment with avocados in this frozen treat, keep reading for the recipe.

In the wake of the economic downturn, not only has the organics industry lost a significant share of customers, but it's been plagued by scandal as well. The natural foods industry was also the subject of debate when a recent UK study found that organic food is no healthier than conventional. Now, the US Department of Agriculture, hoping to address the ongoing organics problems, has ordered an audit of its National Organic Program (NOP), the organization that sets standards for organic products in America. The review, to be performed by the Commerce Department's National Institute of Standards and Technology, will examine whether the program is using internationally recognized standards for overseeing its network of almost 100 private certifiers, all of which have authority to determine whether foods meet federal organic standards.

Will an audit of the National Organic Program put questions about organic standards to rest? Do organic foods have a higher nutritional content than their conventional counterparts?

Who says you need a birthday or anniversary to throw a fabulous party? Recently a friend hosted a welcome back party — for luggage! She attended a wedding on the East Coast and on the return flight her luggage was lost. After waiting nervously for three weeks, it was finally returned. It happened to be a Friday and she decided a celebration was necessary. She sent out a last-minute email inviting friends over for a party.

Trader Joe's catered and she stopped by the party supply store for a welcome back sign and balloons. The suitcase served as a centerpiece and when guests arrived they were asked to wear a luggage tag as a bracelet. I supplied the cocktail and voila, instant fiesta! It ended up being a fantastic night and reminder that one can throw a party for just about any reason.

Have you been to a party that celebrated something out of the ordinary?

In a small indication that America may be on a slow road to economic recovery, consumer foods marketers are beginning to reintroduce larger packages at the same price. Last year, manufacturers were hit by high fuel and commodity prices, so to avoid blatantly transferring cost increases to consumers, manufacturers such as Hellman's, Tropicana, and Kellogg's quietly began downsizing packages.

Ben & Jerry's even went after the size of Haagen-Dazs in its marketing campaign, pointing out that the rival company had downsized its "pints" from 16 to 14 ounces. But recently, some consumer products, like Pringles Super Stacks, and certain bags of Frito-Lay's chips, have shot back up to their original sizes. It's unclear whether increased package sizes are going to be part of limited-time promotions or permanent reversals.

Which products have you noticed products increasing in size lately?

When basil is in season, I can't make enough pesto. The classic Italian sauce native to Genoa tastes delicious on everything from pasta to pizza to grilled fish. It's excellent stirred into salads or slathered on sandwich bread. Although store-made pesto is widely available, it's easy to make. Pesto is simply an uncooked paste consisting of fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. It can be made with a mortar and pestle or in a food processor. Once you have mastered the basic recipe, you can get creative with other herb, nut, and cheese combinations. To learn the basic technique, read more