Nigella!

 

  

 I, like many americans, am happy just watching chefs create treats on the television.  I think their ability to describe the ingredients, the excitement in their voice when the taste hits their mouths and the detailed descriptions of the flavors never cease to amaze me.  

So when I heard that Nigella was coming to town, I was super excited.  I am in a lucky position to have a little flexible time during the day, especially when I am in town, and could spend my morning at Williams-Sonoma.  I had never been to a W-S specific book signing before so I honestly didn't know what to expect.  I bought my books the day before and when I asked the man behind the counter what the recommended arrival time would be, his response 'well, one customer said they would be here at 9.' My actual-said-it-out-loud response was 'holy shit, seriously? I'll be here around 10 - you think that is ok?' To which he sassily told me I could do what I thought was best, but he gave me his opinion.

I arrived just before 10 to stand outside the front doors and freeze (albeit a beautiful day) with 6 other people.  Everyone was super friendly and such devoted fans.  I felt a tinge like a poser.  I've watched Nigella and I admire her caring and yet relaxed approach to cooking.  And I really want to have an ability in the kitchen.  Unfortunately, I have always made a better sous chef.   I love to try and when I have/make the time I usually succeed.  That being said, my baking skills lack, my knife skills are questionable and my tastebuds, although somedays pleased with fancy delectable treats, many days are quite content with non dramatic foods.  

As we made our way in the store and in line and since we still had at least an hour and a half, we obviously became friends.  Foodie talk was everywhere.  From favorite knives to an outlet store with the up to date All-Clad pieces to food adventures from a summer in Spain all the way down to discussing who would be named the Top Chef winner and it was a great way to pass the time.  And as our time passed with frenchy food words and knowledge that I wouldn't have received unless I was at a cooking class, the line grew and grew.  Before Nigella arrived it looped the store and was out the door!

Just fashionably minutes late - out of the stock room came Nigella!  And I thought everyone would have clapped or given a yay or maybe even a cheerio (to remind her of home:kidding.) but it was just silence.  And staring.  And so I  stared too, not star struck, but for a brief moment I was a follower. 

I was about 6th in line and it was a smooth exchange.  I was prepared thanks to Dena at T&C W-S and had the names of the people in the books that I needed signed.  And Nigella was super gracious and kind and thanked me for coming and being a fan and I was honest and told her I was still trying to figure out my way around the kitchen, but I would get there.  And she laughed and in that calm cool british accent told me not to worry just to keep at it.  And then we spoke of her days in Houston and her next stop is Atlanta and then home for the holidays.  It was just lovely.  She is lovely.

So I spent my pre-slumber hours trying to figure out what I will attempt from Nigella Christmas - tis the season and all...

Comments

[Amelie]

Danda, Marta is teary; she is so proud!