Well I do love to cook. I'm not especially gifted, but I am fearless. Regrettably, I do not possess that knack for "just knowing" what ingredients would taste perfect together. Still, I often act as though I do and usually it turns out wonderfully well.

There are way too many cookbooks in my kitchen. Everyone I leaf through in a book store I think I need to own. I always read the FOOD section in our newspaper and usually cut at least one recipe out. And, I usually make it.

I especially love making low calorie main courses and high calorie desserts. I know that's crazy but it's the truth.

If I've been to a great party, you can bet I collected a few recipes. That's how I get the ones I love for the most part.

Tom is a better cook than I because he possesses that certain knack and he understands chemistry. He also has an artistic eye so his presentation is terrific. Unfortunately, he can no longer cook due to his chronic pain.

Lucky for me, he is a most grateful diner. Whatever I put before him, he enjoys fully. He is so easy to please and always so thankful for my efforts. His attitude makes me want to try anything.

Since we entertain often, it is safe to assume I will make at least one thing new at every dinner. It just makes the preparation portion of party planning more fun. I really don't care if I fail. Admittedly, I only do this with friends I have fed many times.

I think my most made recipe is the Pumpkin Bread which you will find below. I make this and Banana Bread so often that I always have about three loaves in my freezer. I do this so I always have something to bring as a hostess gift no matter how "last minute" I am running. And, something homemade is always appreciated.

I'm leaving you with my favorite recipe site on the web. Enjoy!

RecipeNotes.com