By no means am I a great cook, but I like to think I can hold my own. My main discipline is anything I can throw on the BBQ. Or according to my old roommate Mark, I can heat stuff up with the best of them. I also have my ten or so "go to" dishes when I need to impress, but there is definitely room for improvement.

Luckily for me, a friend of a friend has started a cooking class for men called ManCademy. As the copy states on the website, "it's a cooking class for the common man." Although I hate to think of myself as common, I'm seriously enjoying the classes. Since this is the first go around, it's men, women, married folk, couples and a few single people. I personally enjoy the coed aspect, but can see how it may be less intimidating for guys to be in an all guy class.

The chef or instructor is Chris Smith. His end goal would be to have a cooking show on the Food Network, but for now is honing his courses on some very willing ginny pigs. The first step will be putting together 10 classes and establish some paying students. I'm fortunate to have gotten in on the ground level.

So far we've had two classes, the first on knifes and appetizers and the second on utensils, salads and dressings. It's a great format because you first learn a universal cooking skill, like cutting technics or the basics to making any salad dressing, followed by making three specific items. The class has a great pace, where we first listen and learn, then watch Chris demonstrate, followed by breaking into groups and cooking.

The appetizers and wine during the three hour class also helps move things along. The other key is bringing tupperware, so you can take home what you put together during class. Last time I brought home a chicken caesar salad that I couldn't believe I made. Had to have been one of the best tasting salads I've ever made and it was just a caesar!!! All from scratch I'll have you know.

Lastly, Chris does a great job typing up the lesson plan, instructions and recipies. So far I have recreated two dishes at home to what I consider a success. They tasted great and reinforced the fact I am learning something.

Cooking should not be a chore but a fun activity you can share with your friends and family. I'm looking forward to the next installment of ManCademy.