As a child, I was constantly watching my grandmothers, Sarah Smith & Estell Dixon, in the kitchen. Wide-eyed and full of anticipation, I’d carefully tiptoe through the house - patiently waiting for the cakes to rise. I watched the matriarchs of my family turn simple ingredients such as vanilla, sugar, flour, and butter into perfectly colored, beautifully balanced batter. After the cakes were made, I’d watch them slice the cakes with care and serve it with a heart full of love and a tall glass of ice-cold milk. My Grandmothers and I would then talk and laugh until our hearts and bellies were in sync.