I must start with a cliché, because it's so apt:
It is with mixed emotions that I announce my retirement. Meals by Marlene is no longer in business.
My little personal chef business was the first time I'd ever had free reign to create something from scratch. It has been exciting, up-lifting, and fun. I've learned more than I ever imagined, and amazed at my own capabilities and creativity. I never knew I had it in me.
Yet I am closing my business voluntarily. Yes, clients have been few, but I've have had some work. I am at least covering my expenses, with a little money left over. Perhaps if business were better, I would hang on for a while longer. This is part of why I'm closing.
Mostly though, it's so I can concentrate on other things. My husband has retired, and we have many plans for our time. I'm teaching natural childbirth classes, and I am writing. Both of these endeavors take a lot of time and effort, especially the writing. I want to be published, and that means working it for all I can.
I haven't decided whether to stop this blog. I haven't been posting lately, but my interest in food will never fade, and there is still a lot to talk about. I could post it all on my other blog, at mardott.livejournal.com, but that is mostly for writing-related topics. Still, it's something I'm thinking about.
If you've found me through a search engine, I encourage you to check out the other chefs in the Bay Area. Go to www.hireachef.com to search for a listing. There's a talented group serving the area!
