My Story
My Story |
As a young newlywed, over thirty years ago, I had no idea how to go about setting up a functional kitchen. In addition to this, the only foods I knew how to cook were breads and desserts. So, I spent the next few months learning how to cook the basics, such as eggs, pasta, and beans. There were so many things that I had to learn through trial and error. Even simple things, like following recipes, were sometimes difficult. There were terms that I didn't understand and tools that I didn't have. I carefully measured out the ingredients and followed the instructions as best I could, still many of my efforts resulted in barely edible dishes. My husband, Virgil, suffered courageously through many a meal; yet he continued to encourage me with compliments and an understanding smile. So, I tried and tried again, experimenting with various herbs and spices, hoping to discover which ones went with which foods. I learned what substitutions could be made if I didn't have the right ingredients. It was basically a hit and miss process but I finally figured it out and eventually the meals I prepared improved substantially. With this improvement, came self-confidence. Determined to learn more, I gathered information from every source available to me and began taking notes. I learned how to cook with and serve wine; and that presentation played a huge part in every dish. I began broadening my menu and actually enjoying my time in the kitchen. As our family grew, I learned to shop more efficiently and how to organize my kitchen. I discovered that there were items that had to be kept on hand at all times and others that needed to be bought just prior to preparation; and that maintaining a well stocked pantry eliminated most of those inconvenient trips to the grocery store, which was great. I also found that there were pots, pans, and small appliances that were essential to a starter kitchen, and those that could be added later on. The years went by and our family grew. Before long, my daughters, Deanndra, Ida, Laura, and Melissa, were learning to cook alongside me; and this encouraged Virgil to join in. It was heartwarming to see that they all shared my enthusiasm for cooking. Some of our best times as a family were spent preparing meals, and entertaining friends and family. When my daughters grew up and left home, they suggested that I put together a notebook for each of them. They wanted it to include cooking and entertaining advice; and the information contained in the notes that I had collected over the years. So, Melissa gathered and compiled the information while I organized, wrote, and put it together. A few months later, we had a guide book that they could refer to without having to call and ask for help. A couple of years ago, Melissa encouraged me to submit my guide book for publication. I agreed to give it a try and the result was The Ultimate Kitchen Consultant. |
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