Culinary School?

You might want to read this article first from the New York Times.
(read it soon as after a week it will cost you to access their database).

I have had many people ask me about my opinion on Culinary Schools. I often hesitate to give it because of my insecurities for not having that formal education. I am proud of my accomplishments not having that education – trust me I’ve worked hard to be where I’m at. But regardless of where you go to school this is a VERY hard industry. If you don’t have the passion and determination then don’t waste your time.

Thanks to Shuna from Eggbeater for bringing it to my attention.

  • 2 Comments /
  • Permalink

Happy Birthday Monkey!!

We recently celebrated Baron’s 1st Birthday!!! Everyone always warns us how fast they grow up…. well I guess they were right! I can’t believe my baby is a year old.

Gabe and I decorated paper cups for the festivities.

483561512_7d6097f89c.jpg

In these festive cups we served…

Banana Orange smoothies

1 frozen banana

1 1/2 c. whole milk

1/3 c. frozen orange juice concentrate

2 c. ice

Blend in a blender until nice and smooth. Serve with a straw and paper umbrella.

484687758_3b778b35b1.jpg 489520858_52dd864d00.jpg

As a pastry chef it warms my heart to see my son thoroughly enjoying his very own chocolate cake.

489520644_8227cd4e23.jpg

Baron gives the camera a chocolate kiss.

For the game portion of the party I supplied each guest with an ample supply of play dough and pipe cleaners. They had the length of the party to create a monkey.

Here is the winner….(warning.. it’s PG-13)

489547249_eb48f56aa5.jpg

This work of art was really a team effort by my brothers. One created the monkey while the other added the nice little yellow fountain (and no, my brothers aren’t 12 – in fact, they both have children of their own… scary :))

And for the adults… our very own monkey cake. Dark chocolate layers sandwiched between whipped ganache, fresh bananas and whipped cream. Mmmmm!!!

489541467_0b8c074afd.jpg

  • 8 Comments /
  • Permalink