See Ann Boil Water

The process of cooking can be very therapeutic. You take completely unrelated objects and mesh them together in a manner so precise that they are no longer separate; they morph into a new whole.

Plus, if you do it properly, you have a treat when you're finished.

Evidently cooking is in my blood (according to my mother). My grandmother, Ann, ran a restaurant. My mother, Jo-Ann, cooks like a Food Network host. So, I guess it stands to reason this Ann - Jennifer Ann, that is - can handle a ladle as well.

Tonight I made the yummiest accidental meal. Accidental meals are when you root through the fridge and cabinets, without a clue as to what you're going to make, grab a bit of this and that, and end up with a yummy dish.

So if you have the following:

• A bit of pasta in this shape and that shape, but not enough of one to make something that matches!
• Ricotta cheese; about 3 tablespoons
• Mozzarella cheese; about two handfuls
• 1/2 jar of gravy (Did I say jar? Don't tell!)
• A few garlic cloves or garlic powder
• Red pepper flakes
• Parsley

Cook all the pastas. Pour gravy (that's red sauce for my non-Italians) and mix. Mix in ricotta cheese. Stir in grated garlic (or a bit of powder) and a few shakes of red pepper flakes. Spread in a an oven-friendly pan. Sprinkle with mozzarella and finish off with a few shakes of chopped parsley. Put in 375 degree oven for 15 - 20 minutes. Eat like you mean it!