Those that know me are certainly aware that I am not fond of cooking or baking but certainly participate out of necessity. I've made it a little easier on myself when a couple of years ago I got into the habit of putting meat into a crockpot, letting it simmer all day, and then instructing hubby to whip up some steamed veges and a side dish...it's worked well, keeps the kitchen cooled off during hot days by not lighting up the oven, is a bit healthier than frying the meat, and I don't need to follow any recipes!

Our home has an incredible kitchen and a Decor stove with two large ovens with convection modes, and six burners...my sister, who loves to cook, commented when she first saw it: "Wanda, you do not deserve this kitchen!" She and her son lived with my family for a period of time years ago, and as appreciation to us for allowing them to be with us, she offered to cook dinner every night...no problem! Well, the first night I arrived home after they moved in she proclaimed that I had a "dysfunctional kitchen" because I did not have the proper utensils, cookware, knives, and the like, and she was appalled that I did not have a repertoire of common spices! Sorry Sis, it's just not my thing.

I do from time to time, attempt something from scratch...there was this one occassion where I was going to make a "Texas Chocolate Sheet Cake" (not for sure why they call it that, it was just a chocolate cake to me)...I followed the directions with great care, measuring every ingredient ever so carefully...whipped up the batter, poured it in the pan, just like the instrcutions called for and baked it to a perfect consistency. I even made some chocolate frosting to top it off...all's well, right?...Wrong! My family enjoyed a nice dinner and we were looking forward to a rare baked treat from Mom, as we heartily took generous servings on our plates and in unison put a bite in our mouths-yikes, we immediately spit out the portions. Unbeknown to me, the sugar and salt cannisters had been switched and instead of a cup of sugar added to the recipe, I had added a cup of salt!!! To this day I still cringe at the thought.

Look alike/sound alike.....that's a problem in the healthcare setting as well. Folks, take great care when you are giving medication, using a product, or performing a procedure with look alike/sound alike products, check and double check and call in help if needed. I would hate for you to be expecting a "Texas Sheet Cake" and instead, get a "Texas Salt Cake"!