If I have a choice about what to do during the day, almost any day, I wanna be cooking!  I like to cook when I am down, when I am full of life, when I am lonely, when I want someone to feel loved.  I like to cook alone so that I can call the shots but I do enjoy a good sous chef for helping out – especially my kids, husband, parents and friends.  The only time I do not like cooking is when I am sick.

I have a philosophy about cooking, anyone can do it.  I used to say that if you can read a recipe, you can cook.  I have amended that idea because millions of people can’t read but can cook; I am sure many much better than I ever will. Yet, I hold to the belief that anyone can cook, anyone, as proved by little kids who have their own cooking shows and old grandmas who cook when they can no longer taste or see the food they are making.  All it takes is a desire and some ingredients.

My point being that this blog is to share the joy I find in cooking, everyday food, healthy food, family food and food for friends.  Whatever I feel inclined to make and think is worthwhile to share with you, I will post.  I encourage you to make changes, adjust things, add something or take something out.  Cooking is intensely personal and there are no rules.

Remember this is a blog full of love – for food, for my family and friends, for my community and country, for the world.  I want to have a great time cooking and like one of my mentors, Julia Child once said, “The only real stumbling block is fear of failure. In cooking, you’ve got to have a what-the-hell attitude." – so do what I do – take a what-the-hell attitude.  

You can do it – burn your hand, cut your finger, break a dish.  Believe me, the first time you make someone smile because of your food, even if it is only yourself, you will feel addicted.

And lastly, we all have to eat.  We might as well love what we are eating!