The countdown begins...less than a week until I begin culinary school. It's taken years for me to finally enroll; and once I did, I knew it's the right decision. Now that I have my uniforms and schedule in hand, I'm so ready to begin.
I love food. Ever since I was a young girl growing up in Hong Kong, I have fond memories of my grandfather taking me and my family out to dinner every Sunday. It was a ritual that I look forward to every week. My grandfather would choose which cuisine we'd enjoy: French, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Thai, Indian, Chinese, the list would go on. For me, it was like getting a surprise present every week, trying to guess which country's cuisine we'll get to experience. It was an adventure and I was never hesitant to taste anything new and exotic. Every dish was like discovering a new world. Sunday dinners with my family have been some of my happiest childhood moments.
My love for food continued when my family and I moved to New York City. This is where my passion for food expanded. I discovered the cuisine of Latin American, Mexican, Caribbean, Middle Eastern and fell in love. I also developed a passion for cooking and entertaining. I enjoy experimenting recipes with my family and friends. I love making dishes for people to enjoy. I have the fantasy of opening a little shack on the beach of an exotic island and live happily ever after.
I'm eager to begin my culinary education yet I must admit I am somewhat nervous. After all it's been years since I've been back to school. I am also a bit anxious about working full time and attending school at night. I hope I won't be overwhelmed. I know I shouldn't put too much pressure on myself because I'm good at psyching myself out. I procrastinated for years. I told myself it's never a good time. The right time doesn't exist for me because finding the time to do what I want is an inconvenience.
Until recently after some serious soul searching, I realized...why do I create so much pressure for myself, I have everything to gain and nothing to lose. This is not a do or die decision. Life is short so why not experience something new! I rather try than never tried at all. I don't want to have any regrets. Therefore, I'm extremely thankful for some of "my closest people" who supported my decision. I cherish your encouragement. It ultimately helped me discover that I have a great desire to go to culinary school. I'm especially grateful for my husband, Joe. He is my biggest advocate. With his support, I'm able to follow my heart and take the leap of faith. I hope you come back to check on my progress and allow me to share my journey with you. This is going to be a challenge; but I believe if you're passionate of what you do coupled with hard work, anything can happen! Whatever awaits me is sure to be exciting and I am grateful for the opportunity.
