I'm proud of myself

Two and a half years ago I hit a low level. I cut off connection to my religious emotionally abusive mom, and I decided to get a second job to support my family because my ex wouldn't work and we were drowning financially.

I was an office coordinator during the day, so I decided to go back to the old reliable restaurant industry at night, except this time I was gonna switch from FOH to BOH. I interviewed at my favorite restaurant for a line cook position. I remember sitting in my car before the interview, knowing I was about to change my life.

After a year working both jobs, I was having so much fun in the kitchen. I loved what I was learning, loved the people I was working with, was grateful for the movement and excitement and fast pace of a super popular, busy kitchen. I had separated from my ex and moved into my own apartment and we were sharing time with the kids. He still didn't have a job, but it didn't bother me as much.

Then our CDC left to open his own spot and I made a bid for the open sous chef position, and I got it. I left my office job finally. I've been sous for over a year now, and it's the best thing that's ever happened to me. I adore the activity, the people, and most of all the food. Our culture is heavy on the family meals and I get to play around and make whatever I want with company money. I also get 98% discount at our super popular sushi sister company, and my kids have fallen in love with sushi.

My ex finally got a job as a middle school teacher and he's happy and fulfilled in a new way.

This industry and this restaurant specially have given me so much. I'm giving all of myself to the work, but it doesn't hurt because it's so fun and good and right.

I listened to the Kitchen Confidential audio book read by the man himself recently and I identified so hard, as a 42 yo woman who is remaking herself in a second act. I'm grateful to Anthony and to y'all, my brothers and sisters in food.

Raising a glass to you all! Bless the feeders and creative foodies everywhere.