I spent a year in France and was awakened to the idea that food can be a wonderful, memorable thing. I've been hooked ever since. I mostly cook, but recently have become more excited about baking. For about six months now, I've managed to maintain a sourdough starter and I bake bread at least once a week. I am fascinated with the doughs of the world--how different cultures have taken the same basic ingredient to so many different levels. I want to learn them all--pasta, empanada, pierogi, gnocchi, tortillas, dumplings, pate brisee, crepes, pasties, etc. etc. I've started, but I've got a long way to go!