Friday, January 18, 2013

Using My Cass Apron to Give Back



I did something I have never done before over the holidays during my tenure at Cass, I took some extended time off (thanks Steve!). Being one of our busiest times of year, I did this with a little guilt.  I had faith that our capable team would be just fine in my absence  and my time off allowed me to spend time with my incredible family and helping those less fortunate.  

Christmas Eve I drove up to the Bay Area to help my family prep dinner that we would be serving for over 30 people at a family shelter on Christmas Day. With generous donations from Whole Foods as well as private donors my family was excited to whip up a culinary feast to the likes that would impress even a judge on Iron Chef. Two emergency runs to the store for forgotten ingredients and about 20 texts/phone calls to Chef Jacob, we finally finished prepping at around 11 p.m. Christmas Eve with no major mishaps (none that I’m willing to share at least). 


My mom, brother, dad, aunt and uncle plus a few friends were on hand Christmas Day bright and early to help get the food ready. There were definitely moments of stress and my dad seemed to channel Gordon Ramsey momentarily but all said and done we laughed  and enjoyed pretending we were a catering team for the day. The food turned out great and even better, the families really seemed to enjoy it.

My simple advice to you and your family over the holidays this year (you have 11 months to plan): go out together as a family to help those in need, it puts everything in perspective and brings you all closer together.