I've lived in Chicago for five years...with no roomates for 3. I love cooking and I love sharing my cooking with friends and co-workers, if for no other reason then to hear 'This is great...you actually MADE this?!!' I love trying new dishes and using ingredients I've never used before. :) I love making Italian food (especailly my own pasta). I also like making Asian and Southern dishes. I love Christmas time with my family. We make the same dishes we did when I was a child (served in the same bowls too, I think!). It just really takes me back. I have two dishes that I always feel comfortable serving...chili and lasagna. And after about a year, I can finally stir-fry and not have it turn into soup. It seems like no matter what recipe I follow, my mashed potatoes are either glue or taste like water. :)