I love food. I should have known earlier in life what it is I would be doing. Where I grew up though wasn't a place where one would feel inspired to become a chef. I mean the two basic food groups were BBQ and something fried. At one point in time the next county over was the heart attack capital OF THE WORLD. I kid you not. My mother however was an inspiration. She is a great cook. I didn't realize how good a cook until I began eating at some of my friend's houses growing up. Ketchup sandwich anyone?

I recently made a trip home to visit family and friends. Very little has changed. There are only 2 or 3 decent in dependent restaurants. The rest of them are either fast food or chains. Everyone there is excited because they will be getting an Olive Garden. My brother likes to say the town is, "Slowly being dragged, kicking and screaming into the 21st century." We all know how prevalent Starbucks has made themselves in our society. The closest store is 62 miles in one direction and 74 miles in the other.