In retrospect the Millennium marked only a moment in time. It was the events of September 11 that marked a turning point in history where we confront the dangers of the future and assess the choices facing humankind.

Upper classes are a nation's past the middle class is its future.

Everyone comes up to me saying 'Cooee Julie! Hello!' as if I know them. Of course I don't bloody know them. Am I flummoxed by it? Sometimes. I think 'Ooh love go easy.' For a time I did feel this pressure that I had to be funny but it passes.

I loved my 17 years with R.E.M. but I'm ready to reflect assess and move on to a different phase of my life. The four of us will continue our close friendship and I look forward to hearing their future efforts as the world's biggest R.E.M. fan.

That was the day I began cutting classes and returning to TV tapings it ultimately led to a friendship with Johnny O and an increasing fascination and respect for what he did.

Thus the struggle for peace includes the struggle for freedom and justice for the masses of all countries.

The general interest of the masses might take the place of the insight of genius if it were allowed freedom of action.

No amount of political freedom will satisfy the hungry masses.

This June I'll travel once again to the Food and Wine Magazine Classic in Aspen Colorado. For many years my dear friend Julia Child and I have teamed up to teach classes together at the event for the past seven years my daughter Claudine has been my cooking partner on stage.

I love doing demonstrations. I think to be a great chef you have to be a great teacher. I love doing classes with people who love food and enjoy food bringing them all around one table so to speak.