I'm not that great of a cook

But I love food.

I know that is a strange way to introduce myself, but I figure it is as good as any for a food blog.

As for the real introduction... My name is Ashley. I'm a graduate student at Ohio University in the tiny town of Athens, Ohio. I moved here from Orlando, Fla., where I spent my spare time wandering the Mall at Millenia and hitting the theme parks. Let me tell you, my new home is no city, and it certainly isn't a tourist destination.

What it lacks in excitement, Athens makes up in local foods. There aren't many restaurants, but the ones that are here have excellent reputations. There is a ton of local produce and organic meats and cheeses.

What does all of this mean? I'm taking up cooking as my new hobby. Gone are the days of eating frozen pizza and frequenting Wackadoos, the on-campus burger and beer place, and late-night trips to Jeriemiah's, a fantastic Italian Ice place that is walking distance from my former college newspaper office.

I'm going to try to take advantage of what's available here and try to hone my skills. And you, my friends, can join me on this trip through this blog. I will share my successes (and failures) as well as pass along some interesting tips and tricks from some of my favorite blogs.

Hopefully we'll all learn something.

And my apartment won't burn down.