"These are all my notebooks. I write every day, all day long," said Ray.

Some may wonder how a best-selling author, who hosts a talk show, has shows on the Food Network, and is the editorial director of a self-named magazine, has time to cook so much.

Ray says being in the kitchen is what she looks forward to.

"I can imagine on a really stressful day, life would be good at her house," said Gina Eland, who flipped through several of Ray's books with her husband and son before the signing.

"I think she's been really good for the next generation, making cooking cool. She made it look easy, she made it look convenient, she made it look fast," Eland said.

Ray worked her charm as fans filed up to the table near Wegmans' upstairs cafe.

"So many pretty girls here tonight, and handsome fellas, awesome!" Ray exclaimed.

Madison Wilhelm, 10, was shaking after meeting the star. With a huge smile, the Stafford girl gave a big "thumbs up" to describe meeting Ray.

"She's a really good cook and she's really pretty," said Madison, who watches Ray's shows all the time and likes to make cookies, hamburgers and pasta.

Ray even signed 12-year-old Brittney Grupe's bright orange cast, which comes off this week.

"Make sure they cut around that!" said mom Michelle Grupe.

Ever the multitasker, Ray answered a reporter's questions while warning one fan that ink may smear on the the front of a magazine and also cooing over smiling babies.

"You're delicious!" Ray cried out, playing with a little girl's tiny feet.

Some shared personal stories, including Air Force Lt. Col. Rosalie Duarte, who handed Ray a five-sided coin with seals of the four U.S. military branches. It's a tradition to give the coin while thanking someone for their support.

During recent deployments, Duarte was sent a set of Rachael Ray's line of pots and pans. "It felt like home," said Duarte, still on active duty. "Just having that ability to span the seas It's a connection to home.

Katie Thisdell: 540/735-1975
Email: kthisdell@freelancestar.com