Charles Cooley was raised by a hard-working, classic southern woman (which means that she could cook) and a World War II veteran. His loving mother helped to deeply root the American traditions of God, family and country in his soul. "Christmas was always the time the story-telling and cooking would bring the family together, because if your mom can make cornbread, everyone seems to find their way home." He currently makes his home in a suburb of Atlanta, Georgia, with his wife and two children.