Musicalchefmatt, 42

One Love. How 'bout them Cubbies! It's a nice sunny day when I'm deciding to attempt this and I hope it's the same for you as you're reading it.
I'm the type of person who's down for about anything as long as it involves a good time with good people. (Exceptions such as a sing-a-long to some Beiber, line dancing, and watching fox news do exist.) Born and raised in Arkansas so a fondness for the outdoors, wildlife, and starry skies has grown over the years, however, liking country music, hunting, or having a southern accent has not. I'm a sucker for a good book, barbeques and horseshoes, and afternoons on the lake. Bob Marley and John Lennon express in their music how I strive to live better than I ever could in this awkward, self-promoting section so I'll leave most of the basics and generalities to them
I'm Currently working on becoming a chef (I taught Bobby Flay how to grill when I was only 4 years old and gave Emeril his signature "Bam" when I was two) so work and procrastinating studying take up most of my time. I love to cook and learn about all the different cuisines. I'll be certified in about a year and looking to relocate, possibly around a city like Chicago, Portland, or somewhere on the east coast. Of course, Italy, China, and France are never out of the equation. Perhaps you could help me decide as my choices seemingly encompass the globe.
Family is very important to me; I'm very close to my parents, extended family, and my three brothers. I'm lucky to have an extended family that lives all over the states which makes traveling a blast and something I try to do as much as possible. Life is short; I try and spend it with the people I love and care about, learning, experiencing, and living as much as possible. I mean, why not? I've always wanted to live a year removed from civilization, like Thoreau at Walden's Pond, but without frequent trips into town. Wouldn't that be sweet?! Or doing the six month hike down the Appalachian Trail!