The kitchen and the dining room are where we can truly learn life`s lessons, and we learn them through trial and error. Mrs. Whaley declares as she sets about sharing her secrets for cooking delicious meals and serving them with style. Like her thoughts on gardening, her approach to entertaining is a mixture of warmth, wry asides, and clever advice, all spiced with Southern charm and engaging anecdotes from her many years as one of Charleston`s leading ladies. Whaley outlines timeless do`s and don`ts for today`s hosts and hostesses. And to ensure a memorable eating experience, she supplies her favorite one hundred recipes -- including such regional favorites as Pawleys Island Crab Cake, old-fashioned breads, and scrumptious sweets like Dancing School Fudge.