My late-mother inspired me to be an avid cook. She joyfully encouraged us four kids to experiment in the kitchen, as well as to use recipes. I find fulfillment in the kitchen preparing anything from a humble, basic side dish to a fancy dessert! My husband now is on the receiving end of my love of cooking. I am blessed that he isn't picky, which enables me to be adventurous with the recipes I try. For a living, I help him with his furniture restoration business. I enjoying trying to make all sorts of recipes, but desserts are my favorite. I love cooking as many things as I can from scratch, except anything with yeast. Each Christmas I host a sugar cookie decorating day for my two young nieces. I taught them from a young age how to use professional decorating bags, and they enjoy decorating with a rainbow of colors. The quite colorful Christmas cookies end up looking a bit unconventional, but we have a wonderful time decorating them. At age 25, making a 5-tier wedding cake for my dad and step-mother's wedding. Through the frustration and challenges, it was a success! I have also conquered my fear of homemade pie crusts. I gave up making them years ago when I failed several times at a "never-fail pie crust" recipe. But I gave it a new chance after a friend who is a master pie-baker shared her favorite recipe with me. I am tickled that her recipe has been a success for me and has helped me say "yes" again to homemade pie crusts!! My first attempt at making Philly cheesesteaks (without a recipe) for our neighbors. I put way too much garlic mayonnaise on the sandwiches, and we scraped and scraped all throughout dinner. Bless their hearts they graciously smiled and complimented the sandwiches all the same!