Well, it's official, now a half century old-hoping that some day (when I grow up, Lord willing) I'll be able to cook as well as my grandmas did! Am blessed with a great hubby who is very supportive of my cooking experiments, and is quite creative in the kitchen as well when he’s up to it. Also blessed with 4 lovely daughters, (2 in the nest, 2 out) each with distinct culinary gifts of their own. While mealtime in our home is about anticipating good tasting sustenance, it’s much more about enjoying the antics of the family! Dinner time is our favorite time, when we can share in each other's day and be a family. In years past I used to spend hours creating in the kitchen when children were small. Now, being a working, home-schooling mom there’s not nearly as much time as I’d like. I love this website, I’m re-inspired to get back in the game! Also love quilting, rubber stamping & miniatures. I love the Lord and am very thankful for all He has done for me. decafinnw atyahoodotcom I enjoy making anything Mexican or Japanese, and like finding creative ways to use what is on hand. I guess my specialty is Thanksgiving turkey, stuffing and gravy. But the gravy must be classic 'roux' based, or it's not gravy! I like the traditional meals, but also enjoy trying new variations. I seem to have a little too much fun creating my spaghetti and my chicken tortellini stew! Would love to become expert at baking. Time, where is the time?! But now I have a Kitchen Aid! (Eggplant color, if you please) so no excuses left. Our favorite traditions are getting together with extended family for the holidays, and making a huge meal to share. Not always a turkey and trimmings, but always special. Love trying new things! This past Christmas we did a prime rib-type dinner, and even added broiled lobster tails! Yum. Last year, we enjoyed the company of a wonderful little guy "Tony"; the awesome Italian chef touring the North American continent via U.S. Mail - compliments of Michelle J. He was so much fun! Cooking just won't be the same now without him. Thanks Michelle! Mastering the 'Thanksgiving turkey whole meal deal'. Love making it, from the big bird right down to the cranberry salad! Good thing we don't eat like this every day! Some say I make a mean chicken enchilada. Love makng chiles rellenos. And then there's my special 'chicken, brussel sprouts, tortellini stew'. Naaaah! let's not go there...Too many! Well, okay; here's a laugh... about 15 years ago, spent a whole Saturday cooking down chicken bones, veggies, seasonings, etc. making a wonderful stock. Went to strain it to use for some soup, and - you guessed it, strained it right down the sink. Now I can laugh, but not very funny at the time! Most recently... still trying to master yeast rolls. Can you say 'hockey-pucks'?