Farmhouse Kitchen, December 2025
Geneva County’s Amber Thornton is rooted in agriculture. She and husband Garret raise sons Hudson, 14, and Stetson, 8 months, on their family farm in Slocomb. For Amber, spending time in the kitchen brings a sense of comfort and joy. She said it’s a place where she can slow down and create meals during life’s busyness.
Tell us about your farm.
We have a small cow-calf and Shorthorn seedstock operation. In addition to cattle, we grow spring and summer produce. We have been involved in the cattle industry for about five years. What started as a way to support our son’s interest in showing cattle quickly grew into a true family passion.
Do you and your husband have careers off farm?
I serve as a career coach for Geneva County Schools, where I prepare the next generation for the workforce. My husband works with Alabama Crop Improvement Association in Headland.
What do you enjoy about farming?
I grew up on a farm in north Florida, so working with animals and being connected to the land is just who I am. Now, I share that love of agriculture with my family. There’s something special about watching our boys experience farm life — learning where food comes from and the hard work it takes to produce it.
When did your family get involved in the Alabama Farmers Federation?
Our family became involved in the Alabama Farmers Federation when Hudson started showing cattle in 2021. Getting involved allowed us to reconnect with the agricultural community and deepen our roots in the industry. Over time, our participation grew. I now serve as our county Young Farmers Committee chair. Being involved is important to us because it provides opportunities to give back, learn from other farmers and help support the next generation in agriculture.
When did you learn how to cook? Who taught you?
I learned how to cook from my grandmother, Granny Nolin. Every holiday, I would spend the night before with her, helping get everything ready to cook for our family. Those times in the kitchen taught me not just how to prepare food but also the joy of cooking for loved ones and carrying on family traditions.
What role does food play in your life or for your farm?
Food plays a central role in our life and on our farm. It brings our family together. Sharing meals gives us a chance to connect, celebrate our hard work and enjoy the fruits of our labor. Whether it’s something from our garden, homegrown beef or a family recipe passed down, food always brings us back home.
What are your best cooking tips, tricks or wisdom?
Always cook from your heart, and don’t worry about calories! My granny always said food was the way to anyone’s heart. I’ve never forgotten that. Meals bring people together and can heal a broken heart and an empty stomach. I also try to use as much fresh produce as I can. I love cooking in the summer when I can go straight to the garden and harvest the veggies I need for my recipes.
Why is involving youth in ag important?
It has played a huge role in shaping my oldest son into the young man he is today. As a mom, I pray that my children first love the Lord and second honor their family and the blessings God has given them. Through agriculture, I believe we see a testament to those values — teaching responsibility, hard work and appreciation for the land while helping our children grow in character and faith.