My grandmother was the epitome of Southern graciousness. She loved trying and sharing new recipes, and she always had a tin of fresh baked cookies ready for us when we visited. Meals were always a production, from breakfast, to evening cocktails, (for us it was Shirley Temples and or Blue Bell Homemade Vanilla with Chocolate syrup). She made lima beans sublime, and her Red Velvet Cake will never be equaled. My mother, too, is a fantastic cook. Without knowing it she has taught me everything I know about the kitchen. We didn't always have tons of money, but somehow she made us feel like royalty when she served us a mayonaisse sandwich. It's all in the attitude! I love to bake! And I love to present, and to explore and share new flavors and culinary experiences. Cookie baking at Chrismas, big family pot lucks at any gathering. Pralines, Memaws chocolate chip cookies, Memaws Chicken and Spaghetti, (everyone's favorite!) burning sugar in the microwave at the coffee shop where I worked. ARG!