I was born in Illinois and have traveled all over the United States. Currently living in Lafayette, LA, in the heart of Cajun Country, I've been exposing myself to a wide variety of foods, local and international favorites. More about me at http://www.calissaleigh.com I love home cooked meals I grew up with, but I've been in searching for more healthy versions of things I love, and trying new recipes. I am currently passionate about Chinese cooking, and wish to continue my self-education in to different Asian cuisines. Bookie (biscuits and gravy) and chili are some of my family favorites from my grandmother, Lillian Marie Hatton (Stone). I still wish to learn how she made her buttermilk chocolate cake. I think I'm getting the hang of stir frying. I've learned a great General Tso sauce to add to rice which is healthy. No more plain white rice! Cooking stir fry broccoli is the best! I recently made a very bad stir fry noodle. I haven't mastered the noodle yet. Maybe soon.