Dark Chocolate Chewies

Almost a month since I last posted - I should probably work on this. In my defense, the past month has been one of the hardest to date. I would get into detail, but there is just too much to explain. All you need to know is that I had to leave my previous job and I am currently trying to find a new teaching position. Sometimes in life you have to accept when something is all wrong for you and fight for what you deserve. I have not had an easy time since joining the teaching profession, to say the least. It has continually been one bad thing after another. At times I really have asked myself if God was trying to send me a message. I felt like perhaps teaching wasn't the field I was meant to be in, even though I have longed to be a teacher since I was a child. However, in my heart I know that is not the case. I am a good teacher. It just happens I am a good teacher that has ended up in very negative situations. At this point in my life, it is make it or break it time. I do not want to leave a field I am passionate about simply because I can't seem to get a break. So, I have decided to begin a new journey - finding a school and a teaching position that is right for me. A place where I am supported, happy, and truly becoming the best teacher I can be. 

At times it is hard not to feel a tiny bit bitter. I see many people placed into teaching positions they love directly out of school and it is hard not to be jealous. For some, a great teaching career occurs from the start, which makes it that much harder to understand why I have experienced such struggles. I find myself wishing that things had been different for me. But, fact is that they weren't - and I am a firm believer in everything happening for a reason. What doesn't kill you makes you stronger, and I am a very strong person because of these past experiences. From here on out, I am keeping a positive mindset. Friday I had a second interview for my dream teaching position. The school is well known for being one of the best in Sarasota county, and has received 10 consecutive A grades. Even if I am not offered this position, it was simply an honor to have even been considered, especially for a second interview. I am praying and hoping, but if this isn't where I am meant to be, I am positive I will find my way. 

Naturally I am a little bummed, but what always makes me feel better? Chocolate! A super cool chick (who just happens to be our wedding photographer) suggested that I bake something to feel better. I took her advice! These cookies are one of my favorites, and super easy to make. Non-chocolate lovers need not apply.

Dark Chocolate Chewies

Adapted from divniebaking

Nonstick vegetable oil spray
1 1/2 cups bittersweet chocolate chips (about 9 ounces), divided 
3 large egg whites, room temperature 
2 1/2 cups powdered sugar, divided (I used 2 cups)
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 
1 tablespoon cornstarch 
1/4 teaspoon salt

Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray baking sheets with nonstick spray. Melt 1 cup chocolate chips in glass bowl in microwave, stirring twice, about 2 minutes. Cool slightly. Using electric mixer, beat whites in large bowl to soft peaks. Gradually beat in 1 (I halved the sugar here) cup sugar. Continue beating until mixture resembles soft marshmallow creme.

Whisk 1 cup sugar, cocoa, cornstarch, and salt in medium bowl to blend. On low speed, beat dry ingredients into meringue. Add lukewarm chocolate and 1/2 cup chocolate chips (dough will become very stiff). Place 1/2 cup powdered sugar in bowl. Roll 1 rounded tablespoon dough into ball; roll in sugar, coating thickly. Place on prepared sheet. Repeat with remaining dough, spacing 2 inches apart.