I don’t mean for my first post to be negative, but I have to process a bit about the whirlwind of controversy that is Rachel Ray.

Whether you love or hate her (and most opinions of Rachel are just that polarized), there’s a quality about this Food Network celebrity turned daytime talk-show host that is mesmerizing.  Granted, the way she thrashes her arms around when she’s speaking is a little alarming, and phrases such as “Yum-O!” are too corny for words.  But you have to admit there’s a glow about her as well.  She is who she is, and that is attractive.  I just wish she would let me be who I am…

In an interview* Rachel expresses her distate for introverts:

Ray has little tolerance for those unwilling to work as hard as she does-and even less for those she sees as too quiet and reserved. “People like that make me nervous, and I know they don’t like me. My voice carries. When something strikes me as funny, I laugh out loud. I like strong, even-tempered, honest people. And they have to have a sense of humor or I fire them.” 

In last week’s People, she says more bluntly:  “Reserved people might have a problem with loud goofy Rachel Ray….Well, I’ve got a problem with people who are too quiet.” **

Hey!  That was mean!  Nevertheless, I will contintue to watch $40 a Day reruns.  I’m not exactly sure why.  Maybe it’s just because she’s so enthusiastic about life and living.  For a glimpse of this enthusiasm, and of the most obnoxious (but strangely hypnotizing) video you’ll ever see, check this out…

*http://lifestyle.msn.com/FoodandEntertaining/Recipes/ArticleGH.aspx?cp-documentid=752448

**http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20037525,00.html