Grew up doing 4-H for 9 years. Loved to bake from early age. I enjoy watching others enjoy my creations and serve in my church doing hospitality (ie. food!!) I have recently discovered the fun of canning my own jams, syrups and salsas. What a blast! Entered in the 2011 Indiana State fair for the 1st time - did pretty good! I've been making gourmet-flavored suckers and candies since 1982. Also known for my banana bread. If you can put it in a loaf pan - I can make it! From meatloaf to breads. Love to experiment with different flavors. I screw up on occasion....laugh at myself and learn for the next time! I grew up watching my mom trying variations on box mixes - trying to outsmart her picky husband who always wanted made-from-scratch food. I've learned how to make something out of practically nothing - how far you can stretch a food dollar. I always shop at the cheaper grocery stores - but never skimp on flavor when it counts! Butter rules! Doing all the food for 2 ladies' teas at my church. Large group of women attended - it was my 1st venture and 1st trifle! Gotta love trifles!! Also winning awards at the state fair for my jams, syrups, sauces, and breads. Almost setting the stove and kitchen on fire making pies. Making the most beautiful orange colored suckers - but forgetting to put the flavor in! haha! Making and serving banana bread - then realizing that I forgot to add the sugar!