In response to Michael Ruhlman's question 'Why do you cook?'

Why I cook.
I cook because the best memories of my childhood involve people sitting around a table filled with food.
I cook because I moved to Italy when I was 19 and prepackaged food was unheard of.
I cook because 21 years later I still live in Italy and everyday the food I make is the love letter that I give to my husband and son
I cook because I respect the food that I grow and buy in the markets.
I cook because I feel it gives me a creative outlet.
I cook because it is hard for me to say ‘I love you’, ‘You’re a great friend’ or ‘You are very special to me’ but it is easy to spend all day in the kitchen making something that I know that person enjoys, just for them.
I cook because I want my son to be healthy and appreciate what he eats.
I cook because I love to eat.