Joni O
@Owned by a Westie
When my husband & I were first married, I had very little (and that's being generous!) cooking experience. I also had some pre-conceived notions about certain foods and cooking in general that I needed to let go. When I finally decided to change my way of thinking - I embraced creating delicious, wholesome, & pleasing dishes for my family (& me!) as opposed to viewing cooking as a "chore" to be done. Now, 25 years later, I would love to have even more time to experiment & create in the kitchen! (It's probably best that I don't, however, since my husband & I would most likely happily over-eat our way to poor health!!) Cooking & baking has become not only a hobby that I thoroughly enjoy, but a method of relaxation as well. There are few things I enjoy more than the aroma of some wonderful cookie or bread baking in my kitchen on a crisp, Fall day. Even our little dog, Chloe, enjoys my adventures in the kitchen. Because she is sensitive to wheat, corn & beef; I have found some interesting "Westie-approved" recipes to make for her as well. :) One of the most exciting results that has come from my "embracing" the art of cooking, is the interest it has created in both my daughter & son to cook and cook well! My daughter is now married, and both she & her husband are excellent cooks, and I often request their recipes. My son is also learning to make some of his favorite, basic dishes so that he is fully prepared to move out on his own in a year or so. It's so rewarding to know that something I once regarded as a chore has not only developed into a passion; but has become a 'delicious' family tradition that we can share together!