I can't remember when I started cooking, but I think I started out making cookies and cakes with my mom (check out the picture of me, circa 1974).  Baking has remained my main interest although I have branched out to cooking meals other than dessert.  When I can justify the expense, I like to take cooking classes at a local kitchen store to learn how to do things that I wouldn't necessarily have the motivation to figure out on my own, such as Thai or French cooking.  Occasionally, I like to challenge myself to recreate dessert recipes that I've tried in bakeries or restaurants.   

Despite all the fancy classes, cookies are still my favorite baked item, but I also enjoy making cupcakes and truffles and other desserts.  I have more recipes than I can get through in my lifetime.