Tuesday, December 05, 2006

Not very newsworthy

I arrived at the second job last night anticipating another round of lugging food, watching the buffet line, clearing plates and refilling drinks with a smile. I was greeted with "Oh, you didn't have to wear your uniform, this is just a staff meal." Nice. I don't know what was posted on the schedule but obviously it led me to believe this was a full-out banquet. Wrong-o. Quite honestly, I'm not sure why he scheduled me to work. I think the 3 of them could have handled it without me, especially since there wasn't even 20 people in attendance! I just realized that so now I'm irritated.

Anyhow, I think there is tension between the Boss and his assistant. The assistant left the pork in the oven too long and the edges were bordering on burnt. They exchanged words about that. Earlier I heard the Boss basically snap at the assistant and say "BECAUSE I WANT TO SHOW YOU SOMETHING!" He didn't yell, he just said it in an irritated and impatient voice. I don't think they see eye to eye on a lot of things. The Boss is a bit of a perfectionist. Ok, maybe not a perfectionist. He has a certain way of doing things and wants them done his way. It is his kitchen so that's to be expected. I believe most of his methods, etc, are efficient and make sense so I've not questioned anything. I don't plan to, because I'm pretty sure I'd get the evil eye and nothing would change, and I'm fine with that. It is his kitchen. He is also big on presentation, which is why he was irked that the assistant didn't monitor the pork. It tasted fine (quite good, actually) and not burnt at all but I know the Boss was not pleased.

Today I begin the search for a new full time job. I'm hoping to find something in foodservice but I'm not very optimistic due to my serious lack of experience and the shaky job market in my area. I'm not going to rule out another office position but I'm not all that excited about the prospect. I know I want a much smaller company where I might actually be valued (a pipe dream, I know), but I'm also leaning toward a non-profit group- something that serves a purpose. I want meaningful work that will make a difference. Jeez, I sound like some idealistic 23 year old straight out of liberal arts college and headed for the Peace Corps.

Monday, December 04, 2006

Actual food content

Ok, so I really haven't been blogging much about food. My apologies. I read other people's food blogs with envy because they have fabulous experiences and live within walking distance of 50 different restaurants. I think I live within walking distance of about 6. Small town life is grand.

I've requested a digital camera for Christmas. If I get it, I can start snapping pix of my culinary triumphs and sharing them here.

I am considering doing informal reviews of local restaurants but since a.) no one is reading this and b.) I'm trying to remain anonymous, it probably doesn't make much sense to do that. But I can at least describe the food and the experience just to work on my writing.

Here's some food related content: last night I made some darn good beef and bean enchiladas. The fiance enjoyed them which is good as he'll have them for dinner again tonight. I'm working a banquet at the camp so they'll have to fend for themselves.

For the first time ever, I have little desire to make Christmas goodies. I don't want it around as I'm sure I'll eat everything in site. I always tell myself that I'll only make enough to give to people then I won't have to eat any but that NEVER works. I have to taste test, or I end up making more than I need then I'm compelled to eat it so it doesn't go to waste. Sigh... if only I could contract myself out and make other people's holiday fare. Then I get the satisfaction of baking/cooking with out adding to my fat layer.