Is my table ready?

You love dining out. Maybe it’s the maitre d’ calling you by your first name. Or the pressure-free atmosphere. Or the simple fact that you get to walk away dishless and fancy-free when you’re done. But lately, paying big bucks to eat highly seasoned, high-calorie food while surrounded by total strangers just isn’t cutting it.

Is it any wonder? Just for kicks, try eating at home for a change. Experiment with a new recipe or resurrect a favorite from your childhood. Tastes from your past can bring up warm, wonderful memories. It’s your turn to create some for your loved ones.

Yes, you’ll need to come up with a menu and slave over a hot stove. And yes, you’ll have to do dishes—unless you can bribe small children or a roommate. But, look on the bright side. You’ll have more money in your pocket, you’ll be eating healthier and most importantly, you’ll experience the positive effect a home-cooked meal has on everyone at the table. No rushing, no strangers, no stress.