One of the things that I’ve noticed on my walks and metro rides through Paris is that there are a lot of very sad people in this city. They cry right out in the open, both men and women. I often find myself wondering, have they just suffered a heartbreak? Did they lose their job? Or worse, did someone they love die?
Then, on Wednesday, as I was heading home from my internship, with tears in my eyes- it hit me! They must be new stagiaires in a French kitchen!
All jokes aside, I found myself in their shoes last week. I was unhappy, my gut was telling me I needed a change. And on Friday, as I was still feeling sad, I walked out the door and this graffiti reminded me of why I’m here.
I chose to come to Paris to explore another side of my personality. To play with my adventurous side, to meet new people, and to try baking… for fun!
So I followed my gut and gave my notice at the Plaza. If I were my 21-year old self I would have stuck it out. But that’s the beauty of living as my 35-year old self. I know when something isn’t right. And I know I have the freedom to change it.
So I called on some members of my support group…
Gui, Brittany and Renye
… to drink wine, eat macarons, and laugh together.
Like young Cosette dreams of a “Castle on a Cloud” I dream of a new internship that’s a good fit for me. But the best part is knowing that I’m not “On My Own.”
I’m happy to know that you are much better now. and I’ll always be here to support you, babe! as Michael said: just call my name… and I’ll be there! 🙂
Same goes for you Gui! I guess it’s true that you need the sad times to truly appreciate the happy times. 🙂 p.s. I love your constant references to 80s pop icons.
Good for you, Danielle. Your 35-year old self knows a lot more about herself than your 21-old self did. You will find the right fit and they will be lucky to have you on board !
Merci Peggy! Yes, I’m positive that I’ll be able to find something that’s a better fit.
I hope you are alright Danielle!
Take care and bonne chance !
Hi Chaitali! I think it will be hard for all of us in different ways- but I think this was a mismatch. Hope you’re staying strong too!
Yay 35! I am impressed with your strong sense of self to know when something isn’t right! I am inspire 🙂 I hope the next is a better fit!! 🙂
Hi Laura! Yes, I think it will be… I’ll have more updates soon. There’s something to be said for following your gut.
You are such a good role model! Of course, if you’d stuck it out, you could have written a bestseller (instead of The Sharper the Knife, the Harder the Dough?), but not worth the pain and suffering! xo kb
Haha! Ah, the elusive bestseller! Maybe a nice little cookbook instead. 🙂
Hi Danielle… I am Tao from Malaysia and I’ve been a silent follower of your blog.
So sad to hear that the Plaza was not a good fit. Hope your resolve for adventures in sweet Paris remains as strong as ever.
I am a fellow non-21 year old and intend to enroll in Ecole Ferrandi’s anglo program (Feb 2013 intake) and was, in fact, eyeing the Plaza as one of my first choices for the stage. Would really love to touch base with you on your experiences in Paris’ patisserie world so far. My email is wen.cheah@gmail.com if you feel like it.
Bonjour Tao! Nice to hear from you! I loved the program at Ferrandi and I’m sure you will too. Just because the Plaza wasn’t right for me, doesn’t mean that it won’t be a good fit for you. There are a few Ferrandi students there right now who are doing great! I’ll be in touch over email… and don’t worry, there are plenty more Parisian adventures to come. 🙂