According to my mother, I began helping myself to the kitchen when I was about three, and no one has been able to keep me out of it since. My grandmother was the biggest influence on me though. I can't pick up a paring knife without thinking of her. Love you, Gram! I know you'd be proud of the woman/mother/cook I've become. My husband says I make the best roast chicken and apple pies in the world and I've always liked making soups and stews. Everything Thanksgiving related.