Birthday fairy and Big news

I not for anything else, my biggest motivation for a good meal, or a sweet treat, is simply the joy it can bring to the person receiving. Whether it be myself, or others, I've found that a simple effort to serve can bring far more than the monetary value. 

Now, back to this birthday business, shall we? 

These past 3 months in school, I have encountered many a birthdays. This means, many a cupcake and cookie a like. Being one of the 3 lone bakers in my class of 16, we have been personally crowned the masters of all things sweet and sugary. Ok, I may have just made that last part up, but just be aware that in the culinary world, there are the savory, and then there are the sweet. I tend to fall somewhere in the later of the two, as my heart drowns in sugar and spice. 

Last weekend we had not one, but two fellow chef's enter into another year of life. What better way to honor them, but between a sandwiching of delicious cookies. 

Drawing inspiration from the ever fabulous and always creative Celine

I decided upon a variation of these little gems to celebrate a fellow chef lady whom I knew would appreciate such a sophisticated cookie!

Orange Lavender Cookies 

with Blackberry preserves

I used her recipe, switching up the obvious citrus and healthed em up a bit Natty Gourmet style. I spread them thick with fresh market Jam and called them holy. 

Much to my surprise, even the token boys of the group gobbled them up! You see, us chefly creatures adopt quite the sophisticated palate. But really, who passes up free cookies?! 

Celine really is the master of all, I must say - Check her out! 

Speaking of masters... I am about to be tested upon my masterly ways. Come 9 a.m. tomorrow, I will sit down to my final exam in Culinary School! Having already completed, and Aced (BOOYA!) the practical, I am hoping to carry on that theme into the written form. But, I gotta say, I am much more comfortable in the kitchen than at a desk. Eek! 

I can hardly believe the program is coming to an end, it has been such a wild ride - and such a platform to all of my dreams. I never would have thought I could have accomplished the things I have in these past few months. Remember Courtney's trip to the Natural Gourmet? Well, I had the pleasure of not only meeting and greeting, but feeding her too! It was such a cool coincidence to have met her in the lobby, on what just so happened to be my group's Friday Night Dinner presentation. "Hey I think I know you from the internet" never felt funnier :) 

I have really picked up the pace of life, creative excitement and fulfillment has been re-introduced into my world after a much too long hiatus. I am going places, people, I just know it. I really can't explain the feeling, other than a deep, unmeasurable knowing; ease. 

I have to admit, I am itching to spill the biggest beans of all. After weeks of mum, it is time to let it out! 

Part of my requirements of Graduation are completing an Internship in or out of the city. Having just begun my adventures in the big apple, I opted in! With so many places to choose, and be chosen I am happy to announce that come July 22nd I will begin my work at Pure Food and Wine. Yes people, that Pure Food and Wine!

I am excited beyond words and can only imagine all the wonderful experience I will gain from this adventure! Wish me luck! 

Until next time kiddies, It's study time!

Love, and love, and love, and hugs too. 

PS:

Who loves them some free nut butters? I know I DO! Follow the link to find out more...