I started out cooking to help my mom make dinner when she went back to work. I really didn't like it and didn't care whether dinner came out good or not. But then I realized I had to eat too so little by little I developed an interest, now it's my passion. It relaxes me and I'm able to sort things out in my head while I'm baking or making dinner. I like to read cookbooks and see what new recipes I can try. I like to cook and bake just about anything. My favorites though are chocolate cakes, all kinds of cookies, and cooking a meal for all of the family to enjoy. It's my way of showing them how much I love them. I don't really have a cooking tradition, only that for the past three Thanksgiving dinners that I made everything my husband has helped me out alot. I like it that he helps me because we talk about how lucky we are and gives us chance to realize how truly thankful we are to have our daughter and family all together. Also I'm not tired from cooking all day so that I can enjoy the dinner. I would have to say making my first Thanksgiving dinner where I made everything and it was delicious. Everbody couldn't believe I had made everything by myself (well my husband helped but I told him what to do).And really when ever I have success with a new recipe I consider that a triumph. Ah, I have many, like not reading the recipe first or all the way through and not having the right ingredients. But I learn from mistakes and practice does make perfect.