Introduction

Hello, my friends!
    
     Welcome to my first and probably only blog. I love to cook, I love to write, and I love music. Throughout this series, I intend to explore thoughts on all of these things. I can't possibly imagine what could be more exciting! And now that I've begun with what could possibly be considered the lamest introduction to any blog ever, let's break this down a little more.

     Here are the things you can expect to find in this blog. I'll be posting reviews of local restaurants, which will usually also be available on Yelp.com, unless I feel it's something that I'd rather just share with you lot. You see, as an outsider, I have observed many things about this quaint little vale, foremost of which is its capacity for stagnation and borderline xenophobia, but I mostly blame that on its proximity to the Peoples' Republic of South Carolina, the world's runner up for the "Why It's Great to Live Here" Propaganda Award, second only to North Korea. Just kidding...mostly. I feel that Augusta just needs a little...mmm...boost in motivation to raise the standard of cuisine in the area to mimic that of other cities. But don't get me wrong; Augusta, like any other city, boasts an amazing select few of culinary gems that we can call our own, and we'll celebrate them together as we discover them.

     I also intend to discuss my own thoughts and some of my own recipes for the cuisine of various cultures from around this big, round, wonderful world. We'll talk about all manner of food, drink, local custom, and perhaps share a few laughs about dogma, stereotypes and the odd bit of social awkwardness, all with a blatant disregard for political correctness.

     I think food is better when it can be the subject of discussion and debate as well as a nutritional provision; it is the stuff that brings people together, bridges cultures, and leaves us all either healthier and energized, or weakened and lethargic, depending on how it is crafted, cooked, consumed or not consumed. It is, at the very least, a necessity, but I think of it as a phenomenon for which I am grateful in every respect. We are fortunate to enjoy such a bounty of choice, so let's lift our glasses, forks, whatever, to the wonderful world of food!

    We live here. It's on us to improve upon and leave our mark upon the culture and to truly make a melting pot of our surroundings. To me, that is the real meaning of community. Welcome aboard!

    -Matt