I enjoy cooking because it gives me that homey feeling that I love so much. Having friends over each week to try something new is something I look foward to. Food is a wonderful way to bring people together and it is important to make people feel welcome and important. What better way to show your friends how much you care than to spend an hour of your time cooking for them. My Mother says I'm a born host and throwing parties are a favorite activity! Someday I hope to open a Bed & Breakfast or small catering business. I love cooking italian! I love the pasta, the flavor and the awesome variety. Not too many traditions in my family. Probably what I remember most about growing up is whenever there was a get-together there was always plenty of food (usually lots of extra). My Mom always said, "you never want your guests to go hungry". I live by this motto today when I have company over. When I made stuffed mushrooms and received rave reviews at a recent Halloween party. Another major triumph was serving Valentine's Day dinner to my Valentine. They loved it and everything turned out PERFECT. When I first started cooking I did not know what a "clove" of garlic was. So, when the recipe asked for 3 gloves I actually added 3 bulbs. Oh my!