"Secrets from my Tuscan Kitchen"

One of the fun things we did while in the Chianti region last weekend was to attend the Diva's book signing in Panzano.   Judy Witts Francini has been living in Italy for the past 25 years and her market tour & cooking classes were on many travelers' "must do and see" list for years. Last year, Judy decided to "retire" from the cooking lesson world to focus on her writing and culinary tours.  This gave her the time to put together this wonderful book of Tuscan recipes. The book is not only filled with fun and easy recipes, but just the way she made it makes it special: she created her own "handwriting" font, has left the left side of each page for your own notes and it has received the Tuscan Husband Seal of Approval (her husband Andrea has been her very lucky "guinea pig"!).

Three years ago, I had the opportunity to work with Judy as she needed assistance with one of her Chianti tours.  I was amazed, even awe struck at times, over her in-depth knowledge of the local cuisine but also the history and the charming folklore of Tuscany.  She became a sort of "hero" of mine - and I am proud to call her my friend.  

I am especially happy today to be able to let everyone know this is a fabulous little cookbook! And with Mother's Day right around the corner, I think this is the perfect gift for kitchen loving moms. You can buy "Secrets from my Tuscan Kitchen" by Judy Witts Francini on her web site: Divina Cucina.  

"Everyone Should Try Being Italian...at least once a year!"

- Judy Witts Francini