Our Trip to the IDOS WCCO 2012

Last week was an amazing week. Thursday - I was a Chef's Assistant for Bill and Toni Thayn -a team that came in 5th place and qualified to cook on Saturday. Friday was my turn to cook - Andrew and I had a BLAST! Everything came out to our liking, nothing burned, perfect coloring, etc... However we missed qualifying to cook on Saturday, by 3 points. Very disappointing. I was baffled by some of the judges comments, please know that judging is a persons "opinion" of what was cooked. And if they don't like seafood they tell you. Oh well, we had fun, in spite of, an opinionated judge. Saturday I did not let things get me down I mentioned to Bill and Toni that if I did not make it to Saturday I'd come be their Assistant again. And what fun that was - I learned how to make Sushi and an amazing Kobe Beef, and tasted a dried Hibiscus flower (tastes like fruit leather - very yummy). What a great couple, and teachers, they are. I was so excited when the took 2nd place - In my eyes (and taste buds), their food was 1st place - awesome presentations.

There were teams from all across the country from Louisiana, Alaska, Oklahoma, Washington, Arizona, Texas, Idaho and or course Utah. IDOS has a motto that states "Good Food, Good Friends and Good Fun" which was had by all that attended this weekend. We had was some might call a good old fashioned family reunion. 

I was happy to see people, that I only chatted with on Facebook for the past year, and to catch up with them in person. I am excited for the IDOS Spring Gathering on May 5th, 2012 - there are some great classes being held, as well as some great vendors, an Auction, Taste of Dutch, and the Youth Cook-off. Check out the link and come see why I enjoy this so much.

Recipes from the 2012 WCCO can be purchased at the IDOS website or at the Spring Gathering. 

Here are a few pictures from the WCCO 2012 - there are lots more on the IDOS Facebook page.

Photos courtesy of Rob Love, an Awesome Photographer!! 

I was grateful to share this experience with my children, it was neat to see all they learned and can't wait to see what it brings to our dinner table. 

Hope to see you at the Spring Gathering. Keep your pots hot and the creative juices flowing. 

Have fun cookin'

Cyndi