Farmhouse Kitchen, April 2026
Decades of recipes and family tradition come to life in David and Carolyn Bailey’s DeKalb County home.
“Everything happens in my kitchen,” Carolyn said. “We gather around the table, we talk, and we eat. Special memories are always made inside the kitchen.”
She and David raise poultry and cattle on David’s family land near Dawson. David serves on the Alabama Farmers Federation state board as District 3 director.
Carolyn was raised on a nearby farm where her childhood included farm work and dish duty after her momma cooked dinner.
“I was a farm girl, and when I married David 47 years ago, I didn’t know anything different,” Carolyn said. “Growing up, my three siblings and I ate what we grew. We worked in the chicken houses, picked cotton and peppers, and helped Momma clean.”
Carolyn noted her mother didn’t teach her how to cook until she married David.
“Momma was busy, but she was a good cook,” Carolyn said. “We had simple things like meat and vegetables. Her best was her special chicken and dressing.”
Carolyn honed her chef skills after marrying David and while raising their son, Jordan. David’s mother, Vista Bailey, has long been known for incredible dishes like chicken and dumplings and for running a catering business.
“MawMaw Vista has always been a worker and a cook, always having food you could smell when you walked in the door,” Carolyn said. “I learned a lot of her recipes and techniques. Her dumplings are good and simple.”
Carolyn said many of her family’s favorite meals are recipes from a bag — with her special spin.
“I was taught growing up to take care of the family,” Carolyn said. “That’s why I do it. I love to cook. We love good food. The kitchen is my spot. I am either cooking for David, us or our neighbors. God has been good to us. I thank Him every day for His blessings.”