[Mezzaluna]

The first cooking show I remember watching was Julia Child's French Chef. I was mesmerized. After a few shows I realized why: I realized I'd been taught good, solid cooking sense and some techniques from my mom and grandmother. I began to notice, for instance, that when I thought an item was done, or formed correctly, or was spiced right, so did Julia. (Not every time, of course...)

I was home from my freshman year in college. My mom had returned to work in my dad's office, and I was put in charge of keeping house and cooking meals. Thanks to Julia, I had the guts to try recipes (cioppino, coq au vin) I never thought I could do. Our family grocery bill went up, but we sure did eat well that summer!

Incidentally, Grahame Kerr came along around the same time. I never had the same connection with him as I did with Julia.

And for Gav: I suggest you post your question in the recipe forum. Also, use the search button to see if you can find some earlier discussions on "comfort food", etc.