Recipes Farmhouse Kitchen, June 2025

Farmhouse Kitchen, June 2025

Farmhouse Kitchen, June 2025

Tell us about your family. 

My husband, Dylan, and I live in Woodstock and have been happily married nearly 12 years. We’re proud parents to twin girls, Janie and Ellye, who are the absolute light of our lives. When Dylan’s not working at our family owned sawmill, KyKenKee, we spend time together on the farm — caring for our registered Black Angus herd, working in the garden or tending to our orchard.I grew up just across the pasture from where we live now, and I’m so grateful to have my parents and many of our family members here on the same land where we were raised.

What does your involvement in agriculture look like?

I think I’ve always been an old soul. Even back in high school, I had a little raised garden at my parents’ house, and they never quite knew when I’d sneak another animal into my room or show up with a farm animal that needed bottle-feeding.

That love for animals and the rhythms of farm life hasn’t faded. These days, I still get the most joy out of the simple routines of our day — especially when it comes to our sweet Jersey cow, Anna. Every morning, the twins and I wake up early to milk Anna with my dad. It’s honestly the best part of our day.

Afterward, we take care of our meat chickens and egg layers before heading out to my garden in the backyard. It’s something that’s always felt like second nature. Agriculture isn’t just what we do; it’s who we are, and it’s woven into the fabric of our everyday life.

When did you get involved in the Alabama Farmers Federation?

I was honored to join the Bibb County Farmers Federation board in 2019 and serve as secretary. I believe it’s so important for rural farming communities to have strong voices — people willing to step up, advocate and support the families who work the land. I’m grateful to Alfa and the Farmers Federation for providing a platform that empowers us to do that.

Who taught you to cook?

Growing up with three older brothers who could eat us out of house and home, I watched my mom make hearty, home-cooked meals every day to feed what felt like an army. Being in the kitchen has just always been a part of my life. And let’s be honest — I really just love to eat!

What role does food play in your life or for your farm?

Food is at the heart of so much of what we do, whether it’s caring for our meat chickens, raising premium beef for our families, canning the bounty from our summer garden or using Anna’s delicious milk to make homemade dairy products. For us, it all comes down to one simple goal: Providing nourishing, healthy food for our family.

Do you have any signature recipes?

While most of our day-to-day meals are made from scratch with wholesome ingredients, it’s often the slightly less health-conscious treats that get everyone the most excited. At just about every family or friend gathering, I’m asked to bring my chocolate chip cookies — affectionately known as “Koli Cookies”— or my pound cake. I love cooking for a crowd; it’s the only way I know how to cook! I’ve included a few of my favorite go-to recipes for feeding a group — ones that never fail to bring people together around the table.

What have we not asked?

I love weaving the entire process of cooking into our homeschool days — from planting and growing our food to preserving it, preparing meals and, the best part, enjoying it together. I believe it’s so important to understand where our food comes from and to develop a deep appreciation for the blessings God provides. That’s something I’m passionate about instilling in my girls — a love for the land, gratitude for our food and joy in the simple act of gathering around the table.