Now a mid-forty-something, with two grown children, I've been married for 23 years...to the same man! Ever since I was little I always loved to bake; in high school I took classes in cake decorating and even made a tiered wedding cake...although my teacher took credit for that one. ;) Today I enjoy searching out and testing new recipes, especially those where I can use my own garden fresh produce and herbs! My Grandma just loved to cook! I think I inherited this gene from her; and I especially love making all the wonderful italian cookie recipes she handed-down. Also, I always enjoy making recipes by request. Any recipe is always better enjoyed in the company of goods friends and family. Day-to-day meal prep...is not nearly so enjoyable, and I simply consider it more a chore. Every New Years Day is celebrated with my husband's family gathered around the table enjoying all sorts of traditional Japanese goodies. Holidays just wouldn't be the same without the wonderful italian cookies from my Grandma's recipes! Oh, and of course, we have to make homemade ravioli for Thanksgiving. Years ago I began making chicken cordon bleu and it remains my son's favorite! Other often requested favorites are: sukiyaki, beef tenderloin with bearnaise sauce, beef and dumplings, and many different cookies. A little over 20-years-ago, I tried a recipe for a macaroni pizza pie. My husband, still being a newlywed, didn't want to insult me so he kindly ate a couple bites and was greatly relieved when I said I couldn't stand it. It was so bad that even our dog wouldn't eat it! We went for Taco Bell!