When I was married in 1970 the only things I could make in the kitchen, besides a mess, were meatloaf and cake. My mother didn't like me messing about in the kitchen when I was growing up. Nearly everything I've learned over the years has been from trial and error. I started with a wonderful cookbook named Every Bride Can Cook by Maudie Owens. She owned a locally famous diner in Idaho until the late 70's. I've learned what my family likes and add and subtract from recipes accordingly. I like to read cookbooks, and try new things. This depends on the day of the week. On Monday, I want take out from a local place, any place just don't make me cook Monday night. Tuesday and Thursdays I don't work so cooking can be complicated and time consuming. These are days for more chopping, preparing, and cooking. Wednesdays and Fridays the Crockpot is my friend. Saturday and Sunday are a mish-mash of styles everything from Soup and Stew in the winter to salads and home made ice cream in the summer. I have to say much of what I cook is because my family likes it, I get bored making the same thing over and over. Meatloaf, roast beef, taco salad, and pepper steak are some examples of things I can't change. Even a small variation, and I'm told it doesn't taste right. Tonight, Christmas Eve, we are having clam chowder.