My mother wasn't a particular good or bad cook. She had to quit school at the age of 15 (and the end of the depression) to support her family, as her father had died. She did very basic things, like good old saurkraut and weiners, pigs in the blanket, etc. I like them - at that time I found having to come in for meals took time away from playing outside (oh, to have that relationship with food again!!). My mom worked hard, had three kids to raise while dad was off at work. I had a very good life growing up.

Now, my wife Nancy is a superb cook. She is vegan by nature (health as much as moral reasons) and she will cook me any meat products I might want (I remain an omnivore), but I also know that eating healthier can extend my healthy days on earth. She is probably the main reason my cholesterol dropped 50 points over the last few years to well under 200. She does variations on goulash that just make my mouth water. and her lentil soups....mmmmm