Some days are diamonds and some days are stones. Beginning on Friday, these past few days have been the most brilliant diamonds I can remember in a very long time.

It all started on Friday when, after demonstration was finished, the gang who prep and cook behind the scenes in the demo kitchen brought out a cake and began singing Happy Birthday. The whole room joined in, including me, and when they sang “…dear Shaaaaannon…” I think I projectile cried, stood up and blew out the candles. When I turned around to face the room and say thank you, I saw that Arden was snapping pix and beaming, pleased as punch. It was hard for me to not bawl; I was so moved by the thoughtful spectacle. 

Meet Darina Allen, our benevolent drill sergeant. Two days in and my head is spinning from all we have done and have to get done each day.