Reading and Other Passions

I love to read and if given the choice when I have a little extra time, that is likely how you’ll find me – nose in a book and probably so engaged I’m no longer paying attention to what’s going on around me.  I’m constantly carrying a book around, always have a purse large enough for a book, because you never know if you’ll have a few minutes to sneak in a few pages.
Other than reading, my passion lies in the kitchen.  I love to cook and bake.  A lot of people I know are either really into cooking or baking, but I do both (even when my baking doesn’t look that pretty).  I hate icing cookies, cupcakes and cakes – it’s so tedious and mine never look that nice.  But, I love creating something that tastes yummy to share with coworkers, friends and family.
My love for the kitchen most likely stems from my parents.  My mom is a great baker and growing up my dad was the one in the kitchen making dinner many nights while my mom taught evening classes.  We were also expected to help out in the kitchen- washing dishes, setting the table, making a salad for dinner, all four of were expected to help and we all cook regularly now as adults.  During the Christmas season, my mom would spend time baking cookies with each of us individually – whatever cookie we wanted that year.  This was her way of spending time with us – which wasn’t always easy with all the activities we were involved in.
And now?  You’ll find me in the kitchen trying new recipes for dinner.  My boyfriend and I don’t go out to eat very often.  I think he’s spoiled now and he loves my cooking and argues that I can make anything just as good as a restaurant.  I don’t think I’m that good of a chef, but the places we can afford are usually just mediocre and I make some really great meals at home.  And I think what’s really funny is that although I’m not an adventurous foodie (I’m very picky about certain textures); I love to try new recipes.  I ventured into some Indian and Thai cooking recently – so yummy!  And I love throwing together burritos, stir-frys and pasta dishes.
Cooking makes me happy and I think the reason for that is when I’m in the kitchen cooking for my family or friends a lot of what goes into the recipe is time and the love I have for the people around me.  It’s just another way of making the world a little bit better.
What are your passions?