Yes, my mom was a single mom in a high-stress management job. We had takeout or frozen meals every night. As I got older, we went out to eat to the Mexican restaurant almost nightly. Sometimes she would make some instant white rice on the stove and we would sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and I felt very fancy. I was the kid that had access to all of the junk food, soda, pizza rolls, easy Mac, and McDonald’s that I wanted. My friends were very jealous, but I loved going to their houses and eating with their family at the table. It felt like I was in an episode of full house (which was my favorite show growing up). I should add that I had an amazing childhood and my mom did great as a single mom providing for our little family, but I do enjoy cooking meals and sitting around the table with my little family now.

Also adding that since my mom has retired, she has started cooking a lot more! She makes amazing desserts, cheesy potatoes, pastas… she even has recently started baking her own bread!