We grew up very poor as well and my uncle had a small dairy farm. He also raised animals for food and most of the guys in the family hunted. I take some pride in my own cooking as well and I do find it quite effortless. My Grandfather loved to cook "strange" things that they now call gourmet. Keep in mind that the first 24 years of my life were spent in Mass.. Lobster was poorman's food and we ate a lot of it. I never did get tired of it. And, as skinny as I am, I've always had a huge appetite. One that can actually be embarrasing. I took an interest in food and preparation very early in life from my Grandfather and Aunt and have only gotten better with it. My Mom was a great cook but not as adventurous. Your Grandmas' secret was that she loved it and knew what compliments what. I often wonder if people are good cooks because they like it; or if they like it because they're good at it. You really have to learn not to be crushed by the failures you'll definitely have so you can experiment. I used to be devastated when I was young when I made something practically inedible. Now, although it's mostly good, I just kind of chuckle about it. I still create some mysterious messes occasionally. Do you still eat chicken? Do you eat your own? I eat a lot of it, but can't eat anything I've ever pet. I guess I could if I was hungry enough, but I hope that doesn't happen!
