Cooking classes have been part of The Little French Bakery for over ten years. The age of students has ranged from seven to seventy plus. Topics have covered the food gamut. The one thing they've all had in common is everyone has been successful. As the class unfolds, I learn about the people and why they've decided to spend the day at The Little French Bakery. I've learned it's not always about the food...
Students sign up for a class for many reasons. Some want to gather with friends and family for a day together. They laugh, talk, eat, eat some more, and learn a little about pastry or bread along the way. I love these classes because for that day, I'm part of a new family or group of friend. A not-so-invisible fly on the wall. I learn of family dynamics, old family secrets, and share the bond that brought the group together. Success!
Others come to pursue the art of bread baking. They've tried at home, and are ready to master the techniques for great breads. We talk a lot about ingredients and the role that each ingredient plays in the concert of final loaf. My favorite part is the moment when the light bulb goes on for each person. They realize when they may have been going wrong, and how to improve the bread they've been making. We mix, knead, shape, bake and produce warm, wonderful loaves at the end of the day. We've bonded with each other and the big hunk of dough we've spent the day with. Another day of success.
Children arrive for a birthday celebrations. They walk into the building unsure of exactly why they're there, and enter the world of pastry. We wash hands, tie on the aprons and create frosting masterpieces around little cakes. You can't use enough sprinkles. Each child leaves with a unique cake and a memory that will last a lifetime. I learn the latest in pre-teen pop culture. Success!
Last weekend, I had a group of co-workers spend the day making soups. They divided into groups of two and created three delicious soups, and six variations of scones. Each person had different skills in the kitchen. Some cooked often, some rarely. They shared an interest in being together. At the end of the day after the recipes, were complete I realized that each person felt successful, each for a different reason.
I can't wait for the upcoming classes this fall to see what new lessons my students bring me!