I work at odd times, so I find myself cooking and baking in fits. The farmer's market is my ideal place to shop for food, although I confess that my dedication lags in the winter. My favorite savory thing to cook is vegetable stew. My favorite things to bake are the simple classics - quick breads, chocolate chip cookies, vanilla cake. I learned the cold water test for fudge from my Dad when I was a kid. I still don't own a candy thermometer. I was quite proud of my seasonal ratatouille this summer. I have yet to achieve a satisfactory omelet.