As the story goes, my Father caught me standing on a chair and frying an egg when I was only 3 years old. Thank goodness I didn't have the stove turned on but the egg was cracked and in the pan! I used to cook for my family since I was a teenager and loved to make crepes, coffee and anything else I could get my hands on for guests at our house. I still love to cook for family and friends. I grew up with traditional Mexican grandmothers, both excellent cooks. When I find the time, I watch the Food Channel -- Giada, Barefoot Contessa & Bobby Flay are just a few of my favorites. In my opinion, the best cooking show is "America's Test Kitchen". Anything that makes the house smell wonderful or food with garlic. Tamales! I learned from watching my late Father who made them during the holidays. Lots of work but made with much love and memories! I started baking when my kids were little and I experimented with thier birthday cakes. I think I'm most proud of the "Cookie Monster" cake I made for my son's 2nd birthday. Most of the cakes I baked had fresh fruit and whipped cream. Then someone asked me to make thier sister's bridal shower cake. They liked it so much that they asked me to make the actual wedding cake. I didn't have the confidence but I did it anyway. The cake was a little crooked but I made many more beautiful ones after that. I don't do it anymore but it helped build my confidence in baking. Cooked a turkey upside down once, but hey, hasn't everyone done that at least once? Another time I BURNED 4 dozen tamales because I was so busy doing other stuff. Lesson learned? -- ALWAYS use a timer! And once I cooked Chinese food for many guests but forgot to make the rice! I sent my ex-husband out the back door to the Chinese Restaurant at the corner for steamed rice. No one had a clue!