I grew up with a mother who could bake, a father who could cook, and both parents a little overprotective of their kitchen.
It wasn't really until I got married that I learned to cook and bake.
I also learned to can. I make hot pepper jelly every year from the surplus in our garden. I've taken 3rd in 2008 and 2009, and 2nd prize this year at the State Fair. Someday, I'll get a Blue Ribbon and the $8 prize that goes with it.
