Apprentice Chef: The Beginning Week

Six day’s in, to my apprenticeship at Bierhaus. Really loving it thus far, but then again I cannot complain since it is a class to me as well as a job. So whatever gets thrown at me, I’m learning from it and kicking its ass.

Tuesday, having been my first day on the job; I clocked in at 16:00. Was there till closing, so 01:00 am? I learned the basics and was introduced to my mentor, Executive Chef R. Really nice Chef, European too, which made it all the more comfortable to me, almost home like. I started my apprenticeship by chopping parsley, well learning how to chop parsley, to an extremely fine cut. Along with showing Chef R some of my knife skills and learning better knife skills, I learned to plate four dishes and a recipe that day. The apple strudel, pork schnitzel, chicken schnitzel, Jagger Schnitzel and Roasted potatoes; the recipe was for crepes. Em, for it having been my first day, it was natural for me to be a tad slow in the kitchen. After all, I did need to familiarize myself with the kitchen and where things go and are located. Towards the end of clocking out, Chef R gave me the best news I could have heard to boost me up. “For it being your first day, you did very good!” Hell, I was ecstatic hearing that, for I thought I did shit to none of admirable work. So that was music to my ears. I could tell you this much though, the first day my muscles were sore as all hell, not to mention flabby like Bugs Bunny’s droopy lumps of muscle. Ouch!

Second day, I was on my own with one of the other Chefs I met on my first day, nice guy! Although, there were new faces that I had to acquaint myself with. I honestly felt very ostracized that day for everyone in the kitchen was Haitian and feeling comfortable with each other they constantly spoke French and obviously, what with me being an apprentice and someone new to the kitchen, they pretty much got me moving a lot more that I would have expected, although I felt like I had it coming for I knew my second day would consist of me making mistakes, learning from them, hands on that is and perhaps being offered a helping hand- which thankfully I was. Em, my first day as well as the second, I got to cook myself some chicken schnitzel, so damn good. Also it made my stomach really happy since I was looking forward to a walk home from work..

Third day, Chef R was in! Not to be mean or anything, but I felt at ease when I knew I had my hours from 18:00-22:00 with Chef R. I felt more comfortable and not as a bother in the kitchen that time. Although, I believe that is due to the fact that I am growing comfortable with my insane work area and schedule. On this day, Thursday, I got to show Chef R more of what I learned on my second day. I learned a few more dishes. Bierhaus wings, Sliders, Brettzel (Pretzel), Sauerkraut, chocolate cake set up, Bierhaus burger and a few other knife techniques. While cleaning up though, after having chopped a few vegetable and pounding out some veal, I had a run in with a sneaky blade and cut a nice slice of skin off from my thumb knuckle.

Day four, Friday was FAR busier and grueling! I used to look forward to the arrival of Friday, although now I see it as a pain in my arse. Friday was spent making meatballs for a party we were expecting Saturday; about 150 meatballs to be exact. The only problem I had Friday was continuously having to make clear to another cook in the kitchen that, not changing my gloves after having handled raw meat, let alone ground beef, is a big risk for cross contamination if I did not change my gloves or washed my hands. But it didn’t stop there. This cook was also pushing Chef R’s buttons. Being the executive chef of the restaurant, the kitchen is HIS domain. After all, he is the executive chef, they hired him to help out and improve things for the restaurant. Unfortunately though, this cook in this kitchen would not listen to Chef R and would give attitude and not comply with getting what had to get done within the time needed. Needless to say, I can tell that I will have problems with this cook..

Day five, Saturday I walked in with a determined outlook on things in the kitchen. Feeling more confident and gaining some muscle in the process (oh yeah!) and speed with working my way around the kitchen. As soon as I clocked in, I slipped some gloves on and was put to work on making my meatballs into patties for that party I mentioned we were expecting for today. Far better progress this day with the troublesome cook. She got to work right away, no attitude and followed what Chef R had asked of her and did it when it was asked. So there was an improvement; although I believe it was perhaps due to a stern talking to when I had clocked out Friday- who knows.  Got a few battle or kitchen wounds I should say this time. No thanks to the dreaded ceram wrap. You know that yellow box of clear plastic wrap or better known as cling wrap? Well in the kitchen we have an industrialized version of that little devil and boy can those razor teeth cut you open! I lived through it though, got through the hectic Saturday pile up. Then enjoyed a dinner out with friends and a half hour at Sinister! Then it was home for me and to clean up the face and arm and hit the pillows. Sweet, divine comfort.

Day six, Sunday, I believe I will forever look towards Sunday for it was quite relaxing! Slow, got to cleaning up the kitchen and putting things in order. Some cooking, so at the very least there was some action. Despite it being relaxing, I hate simply standing around and doing nothing at all. If at most, I’d rather enjoy a slow day with it being slightly busy than not at all, but it’s not all bad. Sunday was more cleaning than anything else, the hood of the stoves were to cleaned later in the evening that day. Everything, utensils, pots, skillets, pans, food; everything was to be cleaned out and stored in the walk-in cooler. Chef R asked how I liked being in the kitchen so far and my thoughts on it; my response “I’m having a lot of fun and learning quite a lot more than I would have thought. So I am enjoying it thoroughly!”

Six days in total for my first week; 29 hours completed! I’m ecstatic and looking forward to my four day break this week. Although I will miss being around the action, but I return to work this Friday at noon. For now, I will enjoy the break while it lasts. Rest period, take me away.

Sinister Night

Wicked fun Saturday, June 30- also something new. Was invited to attend Sinister event at Eros Lounge with Aimee. Wasn’t really sure what to expect, since I’ve never attended any events that are related to the scene here in Miami. Have only have gone to a few places in Orlando during my visits for the conventions; usually the after parties- which are pretty great! But I will say after having enjoyed last Saturday, Miami has redeemed itself to me with worthwhile events and a great crowd of awesome, decked out people.

Saturday’s are usually dead or time spent at the aunts; but I also have a few where it’s a stay home Saturday, which so happened to be the one just passed- luckily. Having been invited to a night out with an awesome friend, Aimee to enjoy something new in Miami, meet new people and a great crowd was definitely worth and why not?! If you know you’re with good company, at the very least, go out, enjoy the night and have fun.

Having packed the giant, heavy backpack and a shoulder bag to take with me, I was ready to head out the door and leap into the car with the two friends and a huge backpack full of clothes, fishnets, accessories, makeup bags and hair products; after all one must always be prepared to touch up the hair, makeup, and have wallet on their person and ID, etc., at ALL times.

We arrived at Aimee and her mate’s apartment; set up the playlist to get ourselves in the zone while getting ready; outfits first then came hair and makeup. Outfits, I zipped through that part for I already chose my outfit. Something quick to slip into and not too hot, haha; heat inducing I should say. If you’ve ever been to a club or event with a large crowd, you know it’s going to get warm in there and in certain areas where the sweat likes to tickle its way down the body. On with the fishnet shrug, rib-top, suspenders, skirt, stockings, garters, socks and boots; check. Outfit ready. Now the hair; HAIR! Agh, always a killer. Unless you’ve bothered to practice in front of the mirror for an hour or two each day, it’s never easy to make it look like sweet perfection, unless of course, you have the aid of a blow dryer, a teasing brush, Göt2b spiking glue and tons of hair spray and patience- oh and an arm of steel.

Hitting around 21:00 (11:00 pm), we sort of falling behind if you could even call it that- running late suites it better. So makeup was a quickie, but looked über nice!

Some photo’s before leaving out the door. It’s a must. :)

Neglecting my sit ups again.. hmm. BAD! But hey, I’m back on track.

Crazy hair is a must. ;)

Claws and a striped leg.

Toodledo

Silly faces

From there, it was smooth sailing to Eros Lounge. On our way we drove by a club about 7 blocks away, LOADS of police action there- yeah, that kind of crowd. Found some parking, although in the strangest, yet most efficient way. What can I say, you gotta make it work to your advantage in Miami. Time to pull out the ID’s, star stamp on the wrist – oh yeah- and off to meet the wonderful people of that night and more. Really pretty people I might add. What was super cool though, was meeting on the DJ’s, the first runner up, DJ-DeadHead, was playing some great beats for it being the first round. Danced the first hour away to his playlist, I believe it was an hour, maybe an hour and a half. All I know is I enjoyed it. Then it was time to water the system down with a Kamikaze. Mmm, love that drink. Has a nice sour taste to it.  But of course, always have a water bottle on your person. Very important!!

More pictures of the night’s event and dancing fun:

   

Two pretties on a couch. ;) We looked hot.

Then there was an intervention with a plush monkey on the couch ;)

The lucky monkey

He was gettin’ some sweet lovin’ from two goth girls.

Tongue, much. ;)

Kiss on the cheek.

More kissing action. ;) What can I say, we got lucky.

Pretty face. As always.

Unfortunately things had to be cut short around 2 in the morning no thanks to having received a phone call from the house hearing that someone was trying to cut a lock to the fence and was attempting to break into the yard. So I had to sadly, say my goodbyes a little early into the night, to me it was early, but I was happy that I had the chance to enjoy Sinister night and dance the night away and see some familiar faces as well as new ones. Lastly, a group shot of some us from the event.

Morning Meet Up & A Damn Good Burger!

Alright, now I know a burger doesn’t classify as breakfast to the average human, but let’s face it; I’m an eccentric, hyper nut that enjoys doing the opposite of the average human and a burger sounded fitting to me. Although, hitting around noon, technically, deems it lunch, but to me it was breakfast, for an empty stomach is all I had on me aside from my bag and wicked cool company joined by conversation, food and beer.

Beer, no, not mine, my friends. I’m not a beer kind of girl, never have been. Don’t like the flavour of the smell. And out of all the ones I’ve tried; which has been quite a few, and not very good I might add; there’s only been one, Ying-Ling I believe that tasted remotely satisfying. *One thumb up* Any way, last Monday was a change in pace from the usual mornings of wake up, cuddle kitty, plan ideas for outfits/makeup and photoshoots and conventions, sit around and be surrounded by boredom; so as you can tell, hanging out was definitely a wonderful treat.

As I’ve mentioned, or probably haven’t, mostly all my conversations, the ones I have with almost everyone I know and have befriended, ALWAYS and I mean ALWAYS, lead into a sexually based topics with a humorous take to them; whether it be about a particular film- Cemetery Man; Frankenhooker; Dracula: Dead and Loving it, the list goes on- or other topics that have the ever famous sexual jokes or innuendos thrown into them, that are never too far behind in any given conversation I take part in. Well said conversations occurred on that day, and boy were we cracking up. Although, I was surprised just as much as Felix was, to see children being brought there to eat with their parents. Not exactly a “profanity-free zone” or “children-friendly zone” Burgerfi in Miracle Mile. So to save their innocence, we did them a HUGE favour by leaving the outdoor seating area to moving indoors, which sort of rid us of this pesky fly that tried to have a go at the beer and food. Annoying little pest.

After having done our good deed for the day, we got to chatting a tad more, then onto a list of appreciating certain films/film makers and ideas of future projects we have in mind and our top 5 B Horror movies. Hey, I can’t live without them, they’re a classic and have a special place in my heart since I’ve grown up with watching all that wonderful, sappy, cheesy, horror movie, comedy type stuff.

After a last few minutes of some serious talking it was time for goodbyes and home bound for me. Luckily, just in time before the rain caught me.

It Came From Beijing!

There’s was nothing I could do! It just kept calling for me, and then it ensnared me with its faux leather touch to the point where it wrapped its laces around me and tighten the buckles on me with a tight hold that could kill.

Well, it may not be as grand as it sounds or as intriguing, but the time came for a new pair to accompany the wardrobe. Not to worry; it’s nothing lethal I assure you, well, so long as you’re not within a 4 foot reach when I wear them. If so, then duck or make a quick dash before the blow hits you.

It’s been two years since having purchased my Demonia Trashville 502 Boots and they’re still looking brand new, yet I had a bit of a worry about their longevity. After all, I practically wear them every three to four days out of the week, so naturally constant abuse/usage of the boots, the less guarantee of a longer life span; even with great care. So the time finally came to set sail for a treasure hunt of the century- the search for new, killer boots.

Sad part is, most of the really cool looking shoes/boots/etc. are no longer available at the mall as the used to be. I mean, hell, I still remember buying a pair of platform flip-flops at the mall. It was all the rage when I was a child, and let’s face it, they were comfy! But, what with the change in style over the years, things have made a turn for oh.. how can I put this nicely… hmm.. nope can’t think of it in a nicer term. Best way to describe it would be retro/floral patterns/ shabby-chic meets vulgar easy girl? If that makes sense. But perhaps that’s what I’m only witnessing here in Miami, so no offense, but it’s true.

Any who, with such change comes new tactics when looking for new stuff to buy at a great bargain no less. So what place to go scavenger hunting, than ever famous e-bay? So after a good search, oh about 30 minutes I should say, my hunt for a new pair came to an end for I found THE perfect boots to accompany the wardrobe.

Pretty sweet, right?! I guess you can say I fell head over heels for these babies. Not so much for the style though, but mostly because I FINALLY decided to give in to my whim and waste some cash on myself. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying I don’t, but when you’re a college student, especially one who is part of the Alternative scene, it’s pretty damn pricey to keep yourself lookin’ good while paying for what’s more important… CLASSES!

But hey, I’m not complaining. I needed the shoes and let’s face it, Demonia’s, though great, if you wear them constantly, they’ll give out on you without the proper care. So now with two kinds of boots, I’ll finally take a load off the Demonia’s and have my fun with these new kicks and not worry about tying 16 eyelets or putting a strain on the laces.

Oh, one other thing. If any of you are interested in a new pair of boots, to give your older boots a rest every now and then and have had your attention caught by those boots (image above) then you’re in luck! There’s quite a few on sale, but you better hurry.

Great prices DON’T last long!

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Womens-Platform-Wedges-Buckle-Decor-Lace-Up-Ankle-Boots-Punk-Goth-Creeper-Shoes-/121298466508?pt=US_Women_s_Shoes&var=&hash=item1c3df3b6cc

I'm A Disney Princess Reject

Now before I lose myself explaining this tale; so you’re a little more informed about the what kind of person I am and am not; I’m nowhere near a chummy, bubbly, crazy excited extrovert who’s ready to work with a large group of people; I am quite the introvert at times- correction, I’m not an introvert nor am I an extrovert; I’m simply comfortable and simply observing everyone. Now why would I start this off in such an off and perhaps standoffish manner you say? Well, it’s not to be rude or vain or nasty, but to tie it with what my sister depicted me as in an entry letter/email for a position at Disney to be one of their princesses that she had secretly signed me up for.

I was in utter shock to tell the truth when I was FINALLY told of this sneaky plan of hers, which she of course believed it to be humorous, so did I- I will not deny it. Yet to her, it is far more hysterical mostly because she knows I’m nowhere near Disney material that would meet the standards of an employee that has to always smile, put on a show and feel comfortable with it. So everyone is clear, I have NOTHING against Disney! Hell that was my childhood, along with B rated horror movies, Mel-Brook comedies, Abbot & Costello films, black & white TV shows/vintage films, etc., the list goes on. So there’s nothing being said against Disney; I’m only stating what I am not. Without Disney, there would have been no childhood- nor would there had been without any other films I grew up watching…

Any who, what with being the kind of person who does not meet Disney criteria; my sister thought it would be a real laugh to sign my name up in response to this email asking for new Disney princess positions.

She described me to be an utterly joyful, happy-go-lucky, extrovert that enjoys singing, seeing and working with children, and an always smiling type of gal- which I am FAR from. Sorry, but I’m not that grand to play along the happy Princess role every day or time. I believe I've only done so a few times and that was when I was younger, and that was for Halloween when I dressed up as Bell, Mulan and Esmerelda (from Hunchback of Notre Dame). Along with personality traits that sound too goo to be true, she also mentioned that I sing, but that my singing was not all that great nor bad- at the very least certainly not tone deaf, as she put it.

Lo and behold, that very day she told me about what she signed me up for; which was weeks ago, yet I was told of it about 4 days ago now; she received an email in response to her “entry email.” The email, I never read, but she had read it and told me what the contents of it were. Pretty much this email sent by the people at Disney whom I believe, I frightened, had messaged her saying that they received her email, but that had to sadly decline the entry for their former princess returned to her job. That they had looked up my information, profile, and that they were a bit shocked or surprised (I cannot recall exactly the word they said) with the photos they had seen of me on my profile, but that they do not judge, which is nice to hear, and that not to worry, most of their Princess performers know little to zip about singing or have no voice at all, but they teach them and help them better their voices. Aside from that, they wished me a magical day.

Now, I don’t know what they saw, but I’m going to say they passed by my facebook and saw a rather eccentric girl that gave them a bit of a scare, especially when having been recommended to be a Disney Princess performer. Haha, I still laugh about it today, but it was nice to know that Disney doesn't judge people on their interests- which I hope is true, but what with people today, one never knows who is sincere and who’s the liar.

As you can imagine, this will forever be engraved in my memories for only these crazy things seem to happen to me. haha But hey, it was worth a shot. And even if I didn't make the cut because I’m a Disney Princess Reject, then so be it. I hold nothing against Disney over what they mentioned. I found it enlightening and quite amusing, in a funny way. After all, I don’t think I’d be able to cut it as a Disney Princess; make me a villain and then we’ll talk. ;);)