I was born in Mineral Wells, TX, but returned to Tallahassee at 6 weeks old so I consider it my hometown. I am the proud Grammie of two beautiful grandchildren. My granddaughter and I love to cook together (she's 13) and now the grandson, who is 6, wants in on the action. It's always double clean-up when he's involved but you gotta learn somehow. I love the beach, surf fishing and gardening. My down time favorite is a good book. I love to cook soups and try different pasta salads. I've never cared much for "baking" but my granddaughter likes to bake so we're trying some new things together. Growing up my Mom didn't cook much with me but she taught me how to cook by watching. My daughter didn't much like to cook but now the granddaughter and I cook together every chance we get. I call her my sous chef but I also like to "turn her loose" and let her do her own thing, just keeping a watchful eye. Finally making an edible pie crust that actually tasted good. Also making Christmas dinner for the entire family each and every year for 14 years. I once tried a salmon casserole in a crock pot. When I took the lid off the smell made us want to RUN. Ended up throwing it in the garbage. I haven't had many tragedies, thank goodness.