March 2022- the month I finally got sick not injured.
Only 3 months into 2022 and we have already been dealt a questionable hand.
I’ve been in the hospitality industry for 10 years and never thought I’d see our industry affected the way it has been over the last 2 years. I have always told myself, ‘everyone needs to eat dinner, and not everyone enjoys cooking’. In my mind, restaurants are a necessity.
And, they still are. We just can’t operate them the same way.
I don’t know if I can pinpoint all the 1% changes that have happened, but I know I can feel them. It is starting to feel like we are getting back on the normal track. The lifting of the mask mandate was a huge relief for me. Losing the sense of smell and the easy access to my mouth whilst I’m cooking is one of the greatest challenges I have faced as a chef. It has made me feel like a robot. Someone with arms for moving and eyes for seeing. Also, i want you all to see me smiling at you!
I’m actually writing this post from my bed, on a Friday. It’s supposed to be the busiest day of my week. However, after the last 24 months - a global pandemic, service in masks, a divorce and a catastrophic weather event, my body finally decided to throw its hands in the air and tell me it’s had enough and needs some rest. I didn’t have any choice but to listen…
The hardest part isn’t being sick. The hardest part is the thought of re-scheduling every single guest that has been anticipating their reservation. I am just as excited to welcome all my guests as they are to arrive. It’s an electric energy exchange.
I am on the mend and I am feeling as excited as ever to get back to cooking for you all.
Sometimes Joy needs a moment to breathe. I need a moment to breathe, Maddie & Oliver need a moment to breathe. It is a hypersensitive environment inside the space that we call Joy and we are all just human.
I promised the guys I wouldn’t change the menu for a little minute… but I can’t help but sit here thinking of all the things I want to try.
Back at it soon.
All my love,
Sarah