To the Grouch Who Left That 1-Star Review...
COMMENT:
Hi Dan.
I just read your article about the one-star reviewer who lamented your so- called vacation in the so-called Alps. It made me angry.
I have been with you since Cook'n 3 or 4, and I want to reiterate one obvious fact. You changed my life. You taught allergic me how to cook and I can hold my own when I speak or cook next to restaurant chefs. You did that, Dan.
The grouch who made those comments wasn't talking about you. He was ranting at the world for his own insufficiencies. He cannot admit his responsibility for taking things easy. While I wish him well, he has gone after my friend, and we Upstate New Yorkers don't like that.
Please slip this note into a corner of your desk and glance at it when you need it. This guy is nothing, a used-to-could, a never-was.
You, Dan Oaks, are my hero , and I mean it. You work hard, have a good work ethic and you change lives. If you need or want to get away, do it. Go where you want and do what you want. You have earned it.
Just one thing... I taught Spanish, French and Italian at the secondary and University levels,, so if the family goes to one of the locations where they are spoken, I know a very good translator!
I hope you smiled and laughed.
Have a most excellent rest of the week, month, etc. Big hi to Kathy.
I love my Cook'n. Out of nearly 600 programs, it has been my absolute favorite for years.
Nancy F.
RESPONSE:
Nancy… I don’t even know where to begin.
Your message moved me more than I can say. I actually did print it out and slip it in a corner of my desk—because these are the kinds of words that keep a person going on the hard days.
I’m humbled (and honored!) to hear that Cook’n changed your life—and that you now cook with confidence beside professional chefs. You did that. I may have built the tool, but you picked it up, used it, and made magic with it. That’s inspiring.
You’re absolutely right—the world can be heavy, and sometimes people lash out not because of what they’re seeing, but because of what they’re carrying. I really appreciate your fierce loyalty and your kindness, especially coming from an Upstate New Yorker! 😄
And I love that you taught Spanish, French, and Italian. If the Oaks family ever ventures into your language territory, I now know exactly who to call for backup!
Please give yourself a big thank-you hug from me, and tell your nearly 600 other programs that Cook’n is proud to hold the top spot. That made me smile big time.
Wishing you an excellent week, month, and beyond—
Dan
COMMENT:
Dan,
I just saw your newsletter which was sent on May 6. I just want to say.....Go Cook'n! indeed 😊 I remember when I bought the Cook'n CD 2000. I believe I am remembering that correctly. 😊 I absolutely love Cook'n! I, for one, appreciate you and your team. Thank you for all that you and your team do.
Sincerely,
Cindy F.
RESPONSE:
Hi Cindy,
Thank you so much for your kind words—and for being part of the Cook’n family since the CD days! Cook’n 2000… now that brings back memories. 😊
It means so much to hear that you still love Cook’n after all these years. I’ll be sure to share your message with the team—it’ll make their day just like it made mine.
Thanks again for your loyalty, your encouragement, and your cheer:
Go Cook’n, indeed!
Warmly,
Dan