I’m so proud of my friend Valerie!  Last year she embarked on an exciting journey, quitting her job in finance and enrolling in an Italian Culinary school!  It all culminated last week when she graduated at Carnegie Hall.  It was a wonderful ceremony, with at least a dozen of the most famous chefs in the industry up on the stage.  Thomas Keller gave the keynote address and his words were very moving.

After the graduation, our little group had lunch (and cocktails!) at a cute little Italian place on Madison Avenue, and then I talked them into letting me take their photos in Central Park.  Valerie and Allison, who are sisters, are very dear friends of mine and it was a special weekend  for us all to be together as Val has recently moved to Denver.  Come back and cook for us, lady!  🙂