I worked at Tulio for eight days, and then let go. I have my theories as to exactly why that was, but I think that Chef Walter was honest in his assessment of my abilities. I tried and I cared about what I was doing.

He told me not to be discouraged. That I have a future in this business, if I continued to push myself the way I have. They told me that I really needed to start as a prep cook somewhere. I’ve basically been doing that for the last year and a half at the Deli, but I think they mean in a restaurant environment.

Even after several days of being scolded by the Sous Chef and repeatedly showed what I was doing wrong, I came back for more each morning with a chipper step and a smile on my face. The thing is, even though I consider kitchen work a Job, it still does not feel like work to me. It feels like play to me, no mater how hard or hot or taxing it seems to get.

The Deli has taken me back for two days a week, so a little money is coming in. I won’t be listing Tulio on my resume, but Chef Walter stated he would be willing to be a character reference, if I chose. I think I’ll take him up on that offer.