Awkward Chef

We got a new chef at work this month. He is incredibly talented and all of his food dishes are amazing. The only thing is, he's incredibly socially inept, especially when it comes to talking with me.

Today work was particularly busy. At one point I went to the kitchen to ask where the edible flowers are. Cooks were running everywhere, servers were standing around being useless and I went up to chef saying "hey Chef"- to which he replied "WHAT!!!" with a huge bellow to match his huge face and body...

His bloated face was red, there was sweat on his brow and he trembled, though he had a slight smirk on his face.

I didn't even blink, just stayed calm and asked where the edible flowers were, to which he dismissively replied something about "over there" and with a vague wave of his hand lost all respect from me.

The sous chef gave me actual directions and I found the flowers after a few minutes in the walk-in. At least I was able to cool off a bit while I searched.

The strange part is, this chef is totally mild mannered. But every time he interacts with me he is so awkward. When he was introduced to the restaurant staff, I was quick to formally introduce myself and warmly welcome him. Since then he always says fail jokes ... attempting to be cute? Friendly in a very unprofessional way?

Usually men act like idiots around me for one of two reasons... One: they're attracted to me or two: they're intimidated by me. I have a feeling this chef may fit right into this same category. In the words of Mr. Pink: "am I the only professional here?!"

No Trying...Only Doing

Had a 7 hour lunch today with a friend. I hesitate between "coworker" and "friend." I met him through catering several events together. After today I'm sure it's clear we are now friends.

We spoke about so many things. Really I was exhausted by the 2.5 hour mark but I hung in there because the conversation went from self realization to the current state of society... If he was into booze I'd have been in heaven to have these conversations over several drinks.

But he does not booze up so we talked outside in the sun. We walked a ton and talked even more. We tried to help each other with life problems and the time finally came when it was time to eat again. We ate some cheap Mexican food and I was finally able to come home.

When I walked in the door, Lucky mewed my ear off. He was so mad! I gave him some pets and settled down on the couch with a nice cold glass of Nobilo. This was what I wanted to do since 4pm.

Now I sit and think about letting go of the past... About holding on with my current relationship and getting on with myself. I feel like I've been doing a pretty good job with the last one. I can always do better but baby steps... Baby steps!