Merry Christmas to me early . . .'er rather late, I guess!

Guess what showed up in the arms of my Hubby at my door yesterday? Nope . . . not these, but . . . these!



That's right my bloggy friends and family. It's Cuisinart 10 Piece Chef's Classic Cookware in all Stainless Steel. Guaranteed to to help me cook like a real chef or I get my money back. Ok, well not really. But . . . how can I not cook better with new pots and pans. You know -- they're all level and stuff on the bottom. No uneven heating here. Nope! Here's what they do promise:

* Chef's Choice Stainless:18/10 mirror finish. Classic looks, professional performance.

* Unsurpassed Heat Distribution:Aluminum encapsulated base heats quickly and spreads heat evenly. Eliminates hot spots.

* Stainless Steel for Professional Results:18/10 stainless steel cooking surface does not discolor, react with food or alter flavors. Great for classic cooking techniques like slow simmers, rolling boils and reduction of liquids.

* Cool Grip Handle:Solid stainless steel riveted handle stays cool on the stovetop. A helper handle provides extra support and balance when lifting and pouring.

* Drip-Free Pouring:Rim is tapered for drip-free pouring.

* Flavor Lock Lid:Tightfitting cover seals in moisture and nutrients for healthier, more flavorful results, every time you cook.

* Dishwasher Safe:Premium 18/10 stainless steel easily cleans to original brilliant finish.

*Constructed to Last:Limited Lifetime Warranty.

Let me tell you the story behind these gems. Last year (yes, I said last year -- Christmas to be exact) my hubby and I started looking at cookware. We both knew we were in need of some new pots and pans. Our pots and pans were almost 10 years old. You know --- we're the people whose pots and pans had the non-stick coating peeling off and the warped bottom that won't allow the pan to sit level on the smooth top range (this just drove Hubby crazy!).

We shopped, we looked, we fretted over price . . . and we procrastinated. WE.COULD.NOT.MAKE.A.DECISION. We scoured the internet, talked to our friends, got sound advice AND.STILL.DID.NOT.MAKE.A.DECISION. We went to the store this past weekend where said pots and pans were "on Sale" and walked out of the store EMPTY.HANDED. I had all but given up hope on them there pots and pans until Monday afternoon, hubby pulled into the garage after a long day of work and low and behold, there he was with my brand new set of pots and pans. Yes, my friends -- only the best for his little lady. I.WAS.SHOCKED. Happy, but shocked!

So, how 'bout dinner at my house -- next week? I'll need a week to break them in. I hear cooking with stainless steel (as opposed to the non-stick) is a little different. So, I'll need just a little bit of time to adjust. Not to worry, though. I have the utmost faith in my culinary skills (snort!snort!)

Thanks Hubby! I can't wait to give 'em a try!

Gotta run, my biscuits are burning!