Fantastic article on one of my favorite cooks! I'm sorry that you weren't able to officially interview her (and sorry that I wasn't able to make her Powell's event!), but I'm glad you brought up the fact that, especially in a place so rich in food as Portland, we tend to take this sort of cooking for granted. It is straightforward and may seem pedestrian to some, but it's rich in history as well as flavor. Worthy attributes, to be sure.
I have that same Italian cookbook and love it too. But the last minute cancellation of your interview reminds me of what I read in the NY Times book review, in a piece by a former editor of the Hazans', about how they are not always super pleasant people to deal with - the excellent recipes not withstanding.
I think at 84 you are entitled to be tired, and crabby. I think her ongoing contribution to her fans is amazing, and should be treasured as she will not be around forever.