Thank you all very very much. I knew, logically, that I would need good measuring cups and a scale. I have some measuring cups now, but they're really old and from a little discount store. But I guess a cup is a cup, right? And I also have a scale, but I've been thinking of getting a digital one for the accuracy. Above and beyond that, I'm glad to have other essentials that you all have in your kitchens. Things like the magic bullet, a stir fry pan, a toaster oven, etc. I don't have any of those things! If anyone things of anything else, toss 'em out there. As for me, I'll begin making my shopping list based on some of these items here. Thanks!!!

It's easy to get gadget happy so really think about what you like to eat and what gadget would be the most useful and add that one first. Use it for awhile and then get another. I find if I add too many things at once I don't take the time to really get to use them and get proficient with them. Just a thought to save you some counter space!

That's an excellent point, rodeogirl. The good things is that I spent too much on Christmas gifts for my niece and nephew...wait? How is that good news?!? Oh yeah, I can't afford to go gadget crazy! But if I hadn't spent so much? Well, I would do exactly what you warn against. I will make sure I have the basics: a good digital scale and a proper assortment of measuring cups and go from there. But I will definitely be making a "long-term" list of items that I will add to my kitchen from over time.