My parents learned to cook when I was a baby by watching the Frugal Gourmet, and possibly the Galloping Gourmet. If you get the chance, look at The Frugal Gourmet Cooks with Wine (or something like that). It's an interesting book and gave me some things to try. I don't drink, as you know, but I do enjoy cooking with wine. I find it gives many dishes that little piquant zing, and, of course, I make sure the booze part cooks off. :)

I am enjoying reading your cookbook experiments this year, btw, and will email you and ask for recipes that sound yummy!