In my defense, I do make bread too, but haven't all summer. Too lazy I guess. It seems more of a cooler weather thing to me. Dave and I don't use much bread, and it always gets moldy.
Baking stones are the best!!! I have several and use them all the time. Definitely get one.
I also love my large Kitchen Aid mixer. I bought it on eBay for about $100 less than they sell in the stores. New, in the box too. I use it all the time.
I can't cook without wooden spoons. I always wonder when a woman stirs with a serving spoon. (You are a man after my heart, Lew............you seem to know how to cook, for sure.........your potato salad was THE BEST)
I also love my Pampered Chef chopper and garlic press. I also use a large whisk. My large SHARP butcher knife is out everyday too, and a good paring knife.
To make everything, I use LARGE bowls. I have several, and they are all in use when I cook for the family.
When I fry (fish usually............and oysters), my mother told me the key to doing that without making a mess, is to use a DEEP frying pan. So, I have several cast iron (covered in enamel) pans that are deep and I use them all the time. Large, deep and no mess spattering.