I am from Schenectady, N.Y and recently moved to Winston-Salem N.C.  I have worked in retail alot so I probably get some of my thoughts and comedy from there.   I try to put positive spins on the bad things that happen to me in life and instead of brooding or letting it destroy me I let it out in writing.

I would say Shakesphere, Lots of books from Forgotten Realms and especially Dragon Lance have helped me clear my mind and influence me over the years.  Anything that makes me think and feel creative has had a hand in shaping my visions.