This cookbook is dedicated to Jannie R. Johnson Mustiful, the one who taught me how to cook at an early age. Mother, or Madear as we lovingly call her, used to say that we needed to learn how to cook at a young age. As adults, we would be able to prepare a home-cooked meal for our own families one day. Mother did not use recipes; she just told us what ingredients and how much to put into a dish. She cooked by memory.

Baking with my mother became special for me. I learned how to bake my first cake at eight years old. Mother told me all of the ingredients to use, step by step. The cake came out so delicious, and I have been baking and cooking seems like forever. A beautiful coconut cake started my cooking career. Now, God has blessed me to put these dishes in writing for all to use.

Others who have been inspirational in my life are... my daughters, my siblings, family, in-laws, and friends near and far. I am blessed to have people in my life who have encouraged me to move forward. The memories of my husband, Keith James, will never fade. He was my inspiration and loved my cooking.

I give the utmost praise to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, for all the blessings He has bestowed upon me from day one. I pray that you will enjoy these recipes.