I am a professional nanny and family assistant in Menlo Park, Ca. I have been an nanny for over 20 years and love it. I come from a family of 5 children and am the oldest girl and second oldest child. My parents encouraged learning in all areas especially the kitchen! (It meant they didn't have to cook) Lately I've gotten into stir-frys, they are easy and healthy and good! I love to bake, but in my current job, one of the children has very severe allergies to eggs and nuts, so although I still bake quite a bit, to provide him with safe food, I don't really get to make my favorite recipies. I love to try new recipes am always searching my collection of cookbooks and the internet for interesting and kid friendly food. Gingerbread cookies at Christmas, Pumpkin bread in the fall. Pizza parties and lasagna orgies! In my current job, I have actually been able to do several dinner parties for my employers. Cooking several courses, from scratch and having it all tasty and hot on time feels sooooo awesome! The main tragedy I remember happened when I was about 11. A friend and I wanted to make cookies, didn't have a recipe so we made one up. Milk, butter, flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, chocolate chips, vanilla and eggs! The amounts, however, may have been a little off!! Her mother was not happy.