Peel potatoes. Cut all pieces to a uniform size. Put new potatoes into boiling water. Put old potatoes into cold water. Cook just until done -- about 20 to 25 minutes(over cooked potatoes absorb water). Mash. Add enough milk to hold potatoes together -- about 1/4 cup per pound of potatoes. Add 2 tablespoons butter per pound if desired. Mix well. Use hand mixer for creamed potatoes.

Variations

1. Put one or two toes of garlic in the water when you boil the potatoes. Remove them before mashing.
2. Put a piece or two of onion into the water. Remove before mashing.
3. Mash 1/2 to 1 cup cream cheese into the potatoes. Thin with milk to desired consistency.
4. Stir in 1 tablespoon parsley flakes for colour.