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Out of the last 46 years (since age 22), I've had to do my own cooking for approximately half of that.
I became a "chef" by circumstances. I use the term loosely. I am by no means a good (let alone great) cook. Weighing in at 130 lbs is an indication that I barely get by in the kitchen.
I started a life of meal preparations when I lived off-campus at IU, using many of my mother's recipes she furnished me. My roommate appreciated my "talents". But all I did (and still do) was follow the instructions.
My first wife was a pretty good cook--I had no complaints. But when she walked out on the kids (4) and me, I had to take over the food duties. We ate lots of spaghetti and pancakes and chicken the next 6 years!
Slowly, but surely, I stretched out, preparing meals a little more "exotic", certainly more healthy. I sort of based my meals around my garden vegetables. As it got bigger and more varied, my entrees improved. And, I began relying more on my own instincts rather than a cookbook (or my container full of cut out recipes from newspapers and magazines).
When I watch "Chopped" or some other food show, my cooking ego shrinks to zero. I am nothing compared to these kitchen whizzes. I'm slightly above a "meat and potatoes" cook, but certainly not in their category. Oh, but I dream!
I am constantly putting together something unique, like my recent onion lentel bacon soup (secret recipe!), or a peach/red raspberry crisp (yest.). I like to tinker with the foods I have available. I'm a big fan of stir-fries--so many combinations possible.
I enjoy the tips I get from people like Laura (kitchentales) and Jon(dude). But quite frankly, I do my own thing. However, if any one out there feels a desire to come to my house (or me come to yours) to cook a homemade meal, I would most welcome the invitation!
Have a great week, everyone.
Randy
home cooked meals are overrated. 
to your first sentence. Overrated? I think underrated! That is, if they are prepared with fresh foods.
