We decided that our gift to ourselves would be Eco-Friendly Cookware. It took a bit of research to decide what to get... our decision was based on:

• having a healthy (not life-threatening) non-stick surface,
• rivetted handles,
• not too heavy,
• durability and
• company reputation and longevity.

We chose the Green Gourmet set from Cuisinart. Not only did it meet our criteria, it also was packaged in recycled (and recyclable) corrugated cardboard which was printed with soy-based inks. (I like the box so much that I gift-wrapped it and used it as a holiday decoration AND am storing it for use again.)

We purchased the set on-line from www.chefscatalog.com (great price, great service, quick turnaround).

I discovered a chip in the 10 inch frying pan about 6 months after getting the cookware. I contacted Cuisinart (excellent customer service, by the way) and sent it back under the warranty for them to either repair or replace it. I waited the 4 to 6 weeks they told me it would take and still there was no word or frying pan. So I contacted them again... they would replace it but it was back ordered, do I mind waiting for it? No, not a problem. After another 2 months, I called again. SO SORRY, not sure when it will be off back order, can we send you the 15 inch fryer instead? Hmm, let's see replace it with a product worth twice as much? Ah, YES. A short time later I had my replacement.

Then, during the Holidays in 2010, I saw that Bed, Bath and Beyond had the 10 inch fryer for sale. I used my coupon to get a discount and purchased it.

I am so happy to have it again. Did not realize how much I missed it until it was gone.