My last day. Wow. Has it really come and gone that fast?

As the morning fills itself with sardine guts, scales and pin bones I can't help but smile a little bit. I am happy the challenge of language barriers and hand signals is over. At the same time, I made it. I am happy and proud of myself, no matter what anyone thinks of me in the kitchen, for me, I did it.

It's hard to believe in March I stood on the stage at the CRFA food show holding this trophy which was a ticket straight to Spain! For me, the win was the victory, winning my first competition and the second part was an experience in Spain. I couldn't have imagined then what I have experienced now.

This kitchen has showed me how a little elbow grease goes a long way. It glistens of stainless steel and expensive tools which everyone treats with the most respect. A vacuum sealer, thermo blender, ice cream machine, and everything else in between! I didn't come from a kitchen with the best of the best tools, I'd say I was more of a Nona! Using my bare hands to try and accomplish what these renowned chefs can do with their tools.

I am going home with the Spanish tortilla in my back pocket, some badass croquettes, a feel of the famous faba dish and a whole lot of elbow grease to bring to my next challenge.

Marcos and his family have a special bond with food. It's a passion, they are there everyday making sure the restaurant is exactly as they want, even grandmother (the former chef) comes in and checks things out. I want the same passion, not someone who just owns a restaurant and is never there. I want my own Casa Gerardo.

I hope for all those who followed my blogs you have enjoyed reading about each physical, emotion and mental challenge I have experienced. I hope one day, that is my kitchen people want to come work in.

Cheers to everyone who read along! Thank you for reading! Until the next journey. XO