I am 47 year old male that started cooking in my early 20's. I learned a great deal of the basics from a Julia Child video tape set (great for beginers). Also, I watched Jaques Pepin, the Frugal Gourmet and others on PBS prior to the advent of the Food Network. I enjoy pleasing others and the escape yet challenging aspects of cooking. Probably my only creative outlet! Mostly hearty meals, both comfort food and spicy. Grilling a perfect steak, making homemade stocks. Simple de-glazing sauces, roasts, hearty chili, etc. I am not much of a baker. Ha! Well, I learned that most vegetables come from cans,(sorry mom). My father, some traditional grilling. That's about it... They did encourage me thru the years and added to my tool and cookbook collection :-) Making Thanksgiving dinner for the entire family and cousins on several occassions in my late 20's!!!!!! I messed up on my share but have been very fortunate not to remember anything tragic.