I've loved to cook since the first time I tried it back in 8th grade Home Economics! I am a mom of 3 boys, so I have slew of guinea pigs to try new things on. My mom used to always cook for me, and I guess I want the same for my boys. I absolutely LOVE Italian dishes. If any recipe calls for garlic I've made it! I'm a sucker for good desserts too! I love to challenge myself, so I'll try gourmet dishes every now an then. I guess I would have to say Thanksgiving. It used to be the holiday my aunt had, however when she moved to Arizona, I took it over. I plan for like a month as far as what appetizers I'm going to serve, presentations, etc. I had a housewarming/Pampered Chef party at my house this year. I tried a lot of new appetizers as well as desserts, and I was complimented to the nth degree. I actually got every recipe from this website. I just make sure to read the reviews before making anything (some of the suggestions can make or break a recipe!). The year my friend and I decided to host a cookie exchange I wanted to make really impressive cookies. Unfortunately, the striped chocolate shortbread cookies (recipe by Martha Stewart) may have looked pretty, but tasted AWFUL!! I vowed never to make another cookie recipe that called for unsalted butter.