Karla in Phoenix: Day 2

I went down to the convention center this morning and they are getting the class rooms all set up. Already spoke with some of the Chefs, they are streaming in all day today and early in the morning. Ciril Hitz (bread God) is as charming as ever and I have learned he is a Starbucks fan. He is the Master Bread man in the Pastry world. Anil Rohira, a chocolate master by his own rights, is popping around getting things done. . Vincent Pilon is still smiling with his boyish good looks, and the amazing talent he has with chocolate is inspiring. Of course, not to forget the cake decorating god and goddess, Nicholas Lodge & Collette Peters are working hard on getting their rooms set up. They are working their sugar flowers like no tomorrow. Have not yet seen any of the Chefs that are going to be competing for team USA in the world competition next year. Hopefully tomorrow. have my registeration packet to go thru tonight. I must admit I was quite nervous about trying on my chef coats. I had ordered a size smaller than last time and IT FITS!!!!!! LOOSely too!!!!!! YEA.!!!! If I set that as a goal every year then I might actually get down to what I need to. ;-) But I must say, for myself going from a tight 3x to a loose large is pretty damn good over the last 3 years. Now back to my eating excursions.... kinda ironic eh?? LOL Tonight we ate at a Place called Ocean Prime. I had a beautiful cocktail... Ill have to ask Gary what the name of it was. But it had Ky. bourbon in it!! :-) Appetizer was truffled deviled eggs. So rich and creamy, Then a spinach salad served with crispy pancetta, sharp goat cheese, Brioche croutons and a lovely djon vinaigrette. My entree was Filet Mignon with Green Peppercorn & Cognac sauce. Then I couldn't resist trying their spin on a southern classic, Candied Yams with Marshmallow Brulee!! Dessert was Baked Alaska with a duo of chocolate and raspberry sauces. Quite a nice meal. Gary ordered a really nice red to go with our dinner. Again Ill have to ask him what it was. All in all a very nice and rich meal. I am walking alot!!!! AH HEM.... We'll Im off to take in some night life. It is still early here so I best try to fit in. Ill keep ya posted on classes tomorrow. I am sooo excited!!!
Sincerely,
Me :-)