Farewell Charleston

In October 2015 I moved out of the city I was born and raised. Houston was my comfort zone, my home turf, and my sanctuary. At 22 years old, complacent with my job and craving a new adventure, I knew it was time for a change. Two and half years later I am now closing the chapter of my life in the low country and feel the need to reflect and share my experience… you know, just put it down in writing.

I moved to Charleston to work at Husk, to really blossom into the cook I am today, and none of it would be possible without my Husk family. Truly the most dysfunctionally loyal and loving crew of brothers and sisters but it made me strong, broke me down to my core- where I would lock myself in the walk in freezer, cry it out, eat a popsicle and push through. It taught me resilience and determination as a woman in a male dominated work place, it pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me find my middle ground and happy place. I discovered myself in sauce work, cheesemaking, and creme anglaise. I lost myself in caring way too fucking much about what others thought of me, and finally realized to just keep my head down and carry on. I thought I knew what I was getting myself into but shit, I had only scratched the surface. Not only did I meet some amazing people that I loved so hard and supported with all my heart but I got the same creative and thoughtful feedback in return, and for that I’m forever grateful. From fermenting to consommé (Hoeg, I love you!) from Dukes Mayonnaise to Cheerwine, from Celeste’s buttermilk to Skinny’s Thai basil. From Tgrimes drive to perfection, Cherry’s passion for heirloom grains, Garvin for being my right hand man and big brother, Studley for keeping it honest and huggin’ so damn hard, Jensen’s love for making BBQ sauce and drinking Fernet, Kurzen for keeping our kitchen light hearted and in high spirits, Teri for always sharing her fresh churned ice cream and bench scraper, Buckwild for calling me out for all of my mistakes and achievements, Meg for being my second momma, Jen for carrying the team on her fucking back, and most importantly Zachary- who taught me what true love is.

Who knew that Husk would bring me to him, I sure as hell didn’t… but I do know that our love is unfaltering. We created a home together, a life together, and are currently moving across the country together. We have traveled to North Carolina, Georgia, Florida, New York, Texas, Washington, and Italy together… and we are now about to embark on a three week road trip across The United States. Charleston, you out did yourself and I will always and forever have a special place for you in my heart.

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