How it All Began

It all began one day in 7th grade Home Economics where we made cream puffs.

I was excited to share this accomplishment with my mother, who suggested I try my hand again, making these tasty treats for her Sunday evening card game.

I was delighted to share my accomplishment with my mother, who then asked if I could recreate these tasty little treats for our family friends for the Sunday evening card game.

The Cream Puffs were a hit, and my mother asked what other tasty treats I might be able to do. I pulled the only cookbook she owned, Betty Crocker, from the shelf. First came pies and pie dough from scratch. Next, I tackled cakes and cookies — finally, dinners.

This Irish family ate only well-done meat and potatoes — lots and lots of potatoes. Then, I discovered lasagna.

Time passed, and my interest turned to cookies and cakes. More time passed, and I found myself in search of quick, healthy, and nutritious meals for my family. I didn’t have the time for Steak au Poivre or Rack of Lamb with mustard sauce, besides my children had yet to develop a gourmet palate. I needed quick and nutritious meals. Easily made after a long day at work and following soccer, ballet, baseballs, and whatever other activities my children were involved with — and not from a box.

That’s when I discovered, I had a knack for reading between the recipe lines, simplifying, and making it my own. I loved every new recipe I could find.

Not all my recipes come from the garden, but once gardening produced an endless bounty, I went in search of recipes so my harvest would not go to waste.

Enjoy!