I think that's the important thing - being aware of that inspiration and being able to interpret it into something that's meaningful for you.

For me, thats one of the important things about cooking. What was good enough yesterday may not be good enough today.

This is the great challenge: to maintain passion for the everyday routine and the endlessly repeated act, to derive deep gratification from the mundane.

But once in a while you might see me at In and Out Burger; they make the best fast food hamburgers around.

Some of the recipes in the book have evolved for us. Many haven't.

I wonder if I love the communal act of eating so much because throughout my childhood, with four older brothers and a mom who worked in the restaurant business, I spent a lot of time fending for myself, eating alone - and recognizing how eating together made all the difference.

Larousse is an invaluable tool for any cook. I've used this great resource all throughout my cooking career, and of course I look forward to the new edition. New information and knowledge are always welcome.