Anyone who loves cookbooks knows that feeling of having someone near them – on the couch OR in the kitchen – telling them what to do. And Julia’s voice, as a literary author, is intimate and bossy and forgiving and wonderful, whether or not you’ve ever heard her actual wonderful voice.

I was talking about “the book” (Julia’s book) recently with a friend, and I realized that “Soups” is one of my favorite parts. Still relevant, and totally locovorable; a cream soup made of Boston lettuce? Divine, I’m sure.

I think her desserts are also still tremendously relevant. Compared to Martha, they’re not that sweet. They’re not even that fatty! Her clafouti recipe, I just realized, is pretty healthy compared to what’s out there.

Sorry to go on so. All along, I haven’t been sure what I wanted to say about Julia, but I think you’re post really brought it out of me!!