I've got the stuff

Let's talk kitchen equipment. There's a few things you will need that will help you get along when cooking. While it's possible to have one pot and one pan for everything, variety helps. Here's the things I use a lot.

• Crockpot. For anybody who claims to have no talent in the kitchen and can't cook, please stop now. Go to your local retailer, spend about $20, and get yourself a basic model of a Crockpot. There are lots of fancy versions, but that's if you have spare income and/or you want to be fancy. Crockpot is one of those fantastic contraptions that will allow you to toss all your favorite ingredients into one place, turn it on and LEAVE. Since half the battle with cooking is patience and paying attention, this gives you a chance to make something delicious while being completely lazy about it. It's how I got hooked on cooking, I swear.
• Pots and pans. I strongly suggest having at least three different sizes of each, so you can regulate how much you make of any given dish. Getting one of those boxed deals at a retail store is probably your best bet, but do expect to invest at least $50. Just remember, it's for the greater good.
• Mixing bowls. Personally, I prefer having glass mixing bowls, because they have more heft to them. More importantly, if I need to soak meat in an acidic marinade for three hours, I won't have to worry that the marinade permeated the plastic bowl and my next cake will smell/taste of Chipotle. Also, it's kind of gross when you think about it. That being said, it's your personal preference. I do suggest getting at least 3 different sizes, for the same reason as pots and pans.
• Spatulas/mixing spoons. This is kind of a 'duh' bullet point, but I'm making it anyway. Frankly, you can just use regular silverware to cook with, but it's always nice to have options.
• Whisk/electric mixer. Electric mixer can be rather cheap - I have seen one sold new for $7. It's a great investment for anytime you want to bake a dessert of some sort. I think I use it most often when I have to whip up egg whites or whipping cream. So good!
• Food processor. This is where things get expensive. It is not necessary to own a food processor, but having it does make things a LOT easier when you're trying to blend things quickly and efficiently. I have a really old and beat up one, but whenever I need to blend that cheesecake, it's there for me.
• Juicer. This one is quite the extravagant possession but I don't regret having it. There are a multitude of recipes, esp. Polish recipes, that ask for grated vegetables or fruit. Getting that done by hand is a true test of patience and I don't have that much of it. A juicer makes things that much easier for me. Also, fresh apple juice. You haven't lived until you tried freshly juiced apple juice. Just sayin'.