In the rush of things I was always pushed out of the kitchen. Now that I have a family of my own I'm expected to be the "chef of the house" Without any experience or guidance that's been a tough role to fulfill. It's my commitment, no matter how hectic, to never ask my children to leave the kitchen when I'm cooking, but rather to encourage them to actively help me. As a child I would bake and decorate Christmas cookies at my Grandma's house. I like to continue the tradition with my children and my mom. My best dishes have been by accident! When my pantry and fridge have been close to empty I've managed to pull ingredients together to create some of the best meals I've had, without a plan. Only problem: I don't keep track, so I probably can't make them again.