Growing up in Eastern North Carolina, it is only natural that I developed a strong connection to the outdoors. Endless adventures awaited me just outside my doorstep throughout my childhood. Growing up in Eastern North Carolina, it is only natural that I developed a strong connection to the outdoors. Endless adventures awaited me just outside my doorstep throughout my childhood. The Croatan National Forest, Bogue Sound, barrier islands and countless other opportunities were always within walking distance. As a young man with a deep yearning to be outdoors, I was fortunate to be immersed in all that North Carolina had to offer.