I rarely talk about 9/11 because it's hard to talk about. Even though it's been 10 years, I can still remember the long walk home over the Manhattan Bridge with my friend Gyna, the horrifying news that my dear friend Chris was at work that day at the World Trade Center, and the orange sky.

I was born and raised in NYC. It's a city that has an energy like no other. The French agree. I have found that when I tell a Parisian that I am from New York, you can see the enthusiasm in their face. Most people have a love affair with New York. And, I can understand why.

I am planning to go to the 9/11 memorial when I go home for a visit. This day is dedicated to Chris who was a true New Yorker--proud to be from the Big Apple and he never considered leaving it. There is no other city like it and I am proud to say that I am a New Yorker.