Home ec. or lessons for scratch cooking

[surgtech1956]

We had the option to take Home Economics, I didn't, because they also taught sewing. They offered Home Economics both in junior high school and high school. My mother wasn't a good cook. I'm a good cook, if I have the time. I might use a recipe the first time, but ususally modify it - maybe add more garlic or onions or mushrooms. I've been on my own since I was 22(now 53) and always cooked for myself. So I guess I learned when I was 22. I hate baking, if I bake, its usually something like boxed brownies or boxed cake mixes. At work(98% women) when we're in the lounge eating lunch, breaks, the topic gets around to food, so I'm always learning and love trying new dishes.

[OakLeaf]

My mom made everything from scratch, so I learned to cook from her. I don't remember this, but she says I was amazed the first time I saw bread that was already sliced!

We moved around a lot. My first two years in high school, all the girls had to take home ec and join FHA, and all the boys had to take vo ag and join FFA. My last two years in high school were at an independent school that was about as bohemian and egalitarian as you can get... talk about culture shock.

[Crankin]

I took home ec in middle school, grades 7-9, one semester a year. I don't remember what we did in cooking, but I do remember the sewing. I almost failed because of that little thing.
My mom was a fantastic cook who made everything from scratch, including many ethnic dishes which were unusual for that time. There was never a cake mix in my house. I learned to cook from her, just by watching. Both myself and my brother (who is 10.5 years younger than me) love to cook and are serious about it.