It’s true, I feel compelled to quote a Kenny Rogers song.
“You got to know when to hold ’em, know when to fold ’em.”
Honestly, I am a music junkie, and I don’t quote my songs lightly. But Kenny kind of sums it up perfectly, doesn’t he?
I have four honest, intense passions in my life. They are, in no real order, because they all rank first: Mr. Restaurant Gal, Restaurant Gal Daughter, Restaurant Gal Son, writing.
I also love the restaurant business. I love the uncertainty that challenges me to think on my feet. I love the certainty that every day is different. I love the perfect microcosm of life that unfolds before me every day. I love that I found a career I actually thrive in, one that makes me want to wake up every single morning and go to work and wonder at it all.
Not many people experience any of these things, even once in their lifetimes.
Thus, I count my blessings, in so many ways, every day.
I stumbled into a setting beyond my realm, my ken, and somehow managed to beat the odds and navigate it, succeed in it, and learn from it. I will never forget it.
I wish nothing but success for Chef, as I say goodbye to him.
I will, with karma, luck, and a decent resume, stay in the thick of this business that permeates with an energy I crave.
Thus, I’m only folding my hand; I’m still very much in the game.
Because I am, and always will be, Restaurant Gal.
Comments
24 responses to “Know When To Fold ‘Em”
Long Live Restaurant Girl!
… onwards, Gal.
I can’t believe you’re “folding”…but I’ll be here waiting to live through another adventure with you…Godspeed
I’ll be here! Keep us updated friend!
That came out of nowhere….say it ain’t so Gal…
I’m a bit confused? Where did that come from???
I am so sorry it didn’t work out for you at this restaurant… clearly the chef/owner is crazy to let you go. Even though we only get your (extremely well written!!!!!) side of the story I can tell you are worth your weight in gold there. All things being equal I won’t be surprised to learn that you are now inundated with job offers from readers all over the blogosphere.
Good luck!
I am so sorry. For you, to fold on something you’ve held so dear and worked so hard on and are so obviously passionate about. For me, and the rest of your readers because I enjoy so much your observations about people and the restaurant business.
Please keep writing! I’ll look forward to reading about your next adventure in life. Very best to you!
“I love that I found a career I actually thrive in, one that makes me want to wake up every single morning and go to work and wonder at it all.”
This speaks volumes! I am STILL wondering what I want to be when I grow up.
Your writing is an inspiration, Gal. I look forward to following along on your next life adventure. Good luck!
This is the beginning of another adventure. This restaurant taught you so many different things. When you’re looking for your next “gig,” you know what you like, what you don’t like but are willing to do, and the things that you absolutely can’t stand.
Whether leaving this restaurant is by choice or not, knowing these things will help you succeed.
In any case, congratulations on having some time at home with your family. I hope you’ll be able to spend time with your Top Four.
So sorry that you are leaving the job after all the time and energy spent there. You know what’s best for you and your family, so take a rest and gear up for the next great adventure.
All the best! I hope you will keep on writing and this all did not happen because the perp that outed you!
Best of luck to you!
Well, I was rooting for you to make the hurdle, but I didn’t know you’d land on this foot! I like that you are able to filter all given things to make the choice that is right for you, Chef, and the restaurant. I can’t wait for the next adventure since I know you’ve made some incredible leaps and have found a confidence in yourself that (I think) you weren’t sure you had. You can pat yourself on the back for getting that place through the toughest part. The next restaurant gal who takes your place has a piece of cake thanks to your groundwork. Keep on keeping on, RG!
Ah, looks like we decided to make a leap at the same time. I wish you the best in the next stage in your adventure!
I’ve been an avid reader of Restaurant Gal for a few months now and although I’ve never posted a comment, I love reading your very well written take on the restaurant industry. I had such high hopes for you when you started this new gig. I’m sorry to hear it didn’t work out, but I’m looking forward to the next chapter.
Aww rats. Hang in there. *virtual zen hugs*
That just ain’t fair…I find your blog randomly, heartily laugh out loud about Ladies Who Lunch, (in a very quiet cubicle farm disturbing all the other gophers) and am now finding out that you’re moving on too. Keep on blogging, I hope your next life is equally entertaining.
Even though you have a grace about your writing that would rival Audrey Hepburn there seems to be more between the lines. I sincerely hope that you take this time to reconnect with your family and friends. When you are ready we will all be here waiting for you.
Take care Restaurant Girl.
NOOOO!!! This is terrible!!! The amazing chef is leaving and you have decided that your sanity is worth more!!!! I hope to god that the restaurant owner realises just what an idiot he is to let a good thing like you slip away. Best of luck with whatever isaround the corner, and keep us all informed!!! Love your work!!!
Please don’t disappear – I love your blog! Keep on trucking Gal!!!!!
Keep following your heart and keep writing about the journey here!
God Bless
For those of you who may be lost about the series of events leading to this, here’s my take: this blew up one too many times, things hit the fan at work, and the Gal now feels she needs to move on. I think she’ll continue to write – she’s too good, and FAR too entertaining to stop.
As for those who outed her…it was all for what? For the satisfaction of saying, “I know who she is, and I’m going to expose it…”? Its like the bratty older sibling who tells the younger sibling that Santa is make-believe. Even if you know what’s-what, you don’t need to blab it all over the place. Nobody wins in the end.
RG, waiting for your next stop…
Wow. I really didn’t see that coming, but I’m sure that it’s for the best. I’ll be on the edge of my seat until we know where this new road is going to lead you… Much love. LB
No, why are you leaving?!?!??!!?!!
fairly new reader myself, and wondering as well if I must have ‘missed something’. Either way, here is to wishing you the best.
BD