Get up every day and try a little harder than the day before.

Soups are a great way to introduce a lot of vegetables to kids. Stir-fries, too, because they contain so many different shapes and colors.

I guess I feel that I was following my instincts, and at the same time being guided by the best. I became totally intrigued with Louisiana - the people, the food. It is a part of my life. Everything that has happened for me since moving here has just been icing on the cake.

Whether it's books or TV, or whatever the case may be, the backbone of what I do is my restaurants.

I think many cooks are afraid of undercooked meats. A good thermometer is a cook's best friend.

I've been very fortunate, because I've cooked for a lot of actors and actresses and musicians. I've cooked for presidents and I've been to the White House.

Books make great gifts because they expand your horizons and keep you cooking.