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Grits and Grace-The Rollon's

Betty and Grady Rollon have been married for the past fifty-six years. During those years, they have always shared the kitchen. “We always cook together. Ever since we got married,” Mrs. Rollon explains. Mr. Rollon served as a cook in the United States Army. “It was 1957 when I went to training. They went down the row and told everyone what they were going to go. They told me I was going to be a cook. Next thing I know I’m being shipped off to a special school to learn what to cook and how to cook it,” Mr. Rollon states. Mrs. Rollon claims to have learned a lot about cooking since she met Mr. Rowland. “I had learned from mother and my aunts, but I really learned a lot when I met Grady. He taught me so many things I did not know,” Mrs. Rollon says. “All of the recipes I use have been handed around the family. They went from my mother to my aunts to me to my children. Recipes allow for the tradition to carry on. That’s why they are so great. You also can’t beat mama’s recipes,” Mrs. Rollon laughs. Family dinners are important in the Rollon family. “I cook everything I can find in the kitchen and there is always leftovers. I always want there to be plenty. I’ve cooked for about twelve people, and on some occasions I’ve cooked for about fifty. Holidays and family get togethers are where you cook your best, Mrs. Rollon explains. “Betty makes the best chicken and dressing,” Mr. Rollon adds. Mrs. Rollon piped in and stated, “Well Grady does great catfish and fixings. He cooks some good fish.” The Rollons especially enjoy cooking country foods. “My favorite is fried chicken, but I also like to do ham, cornbread, and fried potatoes,” Mrs. Rollon adds. “Back when our kids were little, I used to blow a bull horn to signal them that it was time for supper,” Mr. Rollon states. “We make everything from scratch. It is just so much better that way,” Mrs. Rollon exclaims while showing off some of her favorite recipes.

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