Cabin Fever

Days 97-101

In the ultimate culinary student move, I just took my temperature with a meat thermometer.

I spent the second day of Level 6—the final chapter of culinary school—in bed. I spiked a fever of 101 and decided it was best to stay home. Unfortunately, students are docked five points from their grade when they miss class. This is tricky, I think, because students don't want to miss in fear of a lower grade when, really, they shouldn't be serving food if they can contaminate it—and other students.

I'm pretty sure I got sick from someone at school, so I'm staying home because that's what they should have done. (Does this sound bitter?) Maybe it will mean one less person getting sick.

Either way, adios, zero absences.

On top of my fever, my back is on the verge of going out. So not only am I sweating profusely, I can't walk.

OK, enough of my sob story. Here's some good news: I found out that I aced my menu project. That put a smile on my face. The overall winner will be announced during graduation.

Writing this consumed most of the energy I had today. I'm going to kick back and watch some "Top Chef All-Stars."