Dear Readers,

About a year ago, I became friends with Jill Zarin, the star of Bravo's Real Housewives of New York City. Jill and I have friends in common and once we finally met in person, we became instant friends too. At the time, her book Secrets of a Jewish Mother which she coauthored with her mother, Gloria Kamen and her sister, Lisa Wexler, was just coming out. I went to visit the women at Jill and Bobby Zarin's home to inteview them about the book. (Here's the result - an openly candid series of videos).

I had Jill sign my copy of the book for me. I was so touched by what I read: "Dear Melanie, I feel like I know you forever and hope I always will. Love forever, Jill."

And since then, we have been really good friends. Jill has invited me to many events (even some with cameras rolling so you may see me in the background of Real Housewives of NYC this upcoming season!) and I've done my best to share in her milestones, as she has mine.

Jill received a galley copy of my book, Savvy Auntie, and shared this supportive praise:

"Here's a Jewish mother's secret: having aunties around to love our kids and give us the support we need is priceless. Melanie's book honors our sisters and friends and I can't think of anyone more deserving."

And last night, at Jill's book signing at Borders at Time Warner Center in New York City, Jill introduced *me* and praised my book to her fans. Jill really does support Savvy Auntie and I am so appreciative of her influential support.  What a wonderful friend she is.

Jill's family, by the way, is filled with some of the warmest people you'll ever meet. When you are a friend of Jill's, you are instantly part of the family: her husband Bobby, her mother Gloria, her father Saul, her sister Lisa... and I've met her Aunt Cookie who is a delight! I'm completely smitten by the Kamen and Zarin families!

Thank you, Jill. And yes, real friends forever.

XOXO,

Auntie Melanie

PS:  The paperback version of Secrets of a Jewish Mother is out now! Read it - I promise you'll love the advice and truly, laugh out loud at the stories the women share...

Photo courtesy: Rickie Freeman Teri Jon