I learned a long time ago not to stress over a dinner. Guests are more comfortable when the hostess is at ease. If a dish doesn't meet my expectations, I do not apologize and apologize. I've learned that keeping it simple...serving the dishes you are most comfortable making, and having plenty of wine on hand is the key. I experiment on my family all the time. Mexican, Steak, Pork, Chicken. Ooooh I make a nice Cranberry Chicken. My Mexican Pork Chops are the best! I need to submit it if it isn't already posted. Btw, I feel no recipe, even if I concoct it "by the seat of my pants" is original. I don't understand those who refuse to share their knowledge. We travel the world. I have gotten fairly astute at trying a dish and then going home and duplicating it. I've learned that fresh is always better than canned or dried. I've also learned to branch out and try new fresh herbs and ingredients. I'm no pro. Most of my meals are just fast, throw it together kind of meals, but when I try??? Ohhh...watch out Emeril. Always cook with abandon and it never hurts to have a couple of bottles of wine when you have guests. No guests? Hmmm. Just one bottle of wine. When I was a newly wed I tried making my meals go further. I had left over BBQ chicken which I added more BBQ sauce, mushroom soup, and rice and cheese, then baked. Yes, it was a mess.