I was in my mid teens before I realized that cooking was something I WANTED to do, rather than needed to do. It has since grown into my passion. I absolutely love doing it. Food is so much more than just a "necessity" to me. I really believe it brings people together, and there is nothing I enjoy more than doing just that. Everything Italian! Chicken Parmesan, Basil and Tomato Pasta, Shrimp Linguine, Lasagna with Homemade Tomato Sauce, Ricotta and Spinach Manicotti, Sweet Italian Sausage and Peppers.. the list goes on. Cooking for friends is such a great experience. When everyone is sitting around a plate of something I've made for them, talking, laughing, enjoying the food - there is just no better feeling. Using *fresh* ingredients in place of canned or jarred. I never knew what I was missing until I started experimenting. It makes such a big difference. Also, several failed attempts and many bowls of clumpy rice later, I've finally managed to make the perfect batch of chicken fried rice. And there was much rejoicing! Thai food. I would love to make a tasty pot of Tom Ka Gai (coconut chicken soup), but I just can't seem to get the right flavor down. One day!!