I get entirely overwhelmed when I think about how grateful I am for this opportunity to write a book that shares my heart. And I become equally weepy when I think about the people in my world who have stood on the hill and prayed for me and cheered me on.
To Sam Hannon: What have I done to deserve you? You are my biggest cheerleader and the best thing that has ever happened to my heart next to Jesus. You make me believe I can do anything. Thank you for making me laugh, for supporting this hospitality journey from kitchen store to cooking show to cookbook, and for your encouragement and patience. I’d never want anyone else to be my Chief Recipe Tester. Let’s grow old eating shrimp and grits together.
To my kids: Oh my word. Grace, Luke, and Isaac, you three are my heart and my purpose. I have wanted nothing more than to make a home for you and Daddy that felt warm, safe, and full of joy. A place where you and your friends felt welcomed. A place where your favorite memories would be made. I hope when you think of me and of home that you think of Jesus, good food, hugs, laughs, and cake.
To Beth: How in the world would this book or this dream have happened without your brains, your creativity, your humor, and your hands? I am beyond grateful for your contribution, but more so for your friendship. Thanks for being loyal and so much fun. Good grief, we do have fun.
To my shop girls who manned the ship so beautifully while I was working on this book: You gals are the best! Your smiles, your warm welcomes, and your hospitality are so much of what brings people back to Euna Mae’s time and time again.
To Rachel, Robyn, Allison, Selena, and Jenessa: Thank you for sharing your kitchens with me and for offering your help! You lightened my load and blessed my heart!
To my agent, Shannon Marven (Dupree Miller): Thank you for recognizing my heart, for valuing my message, for trusting my recipes, and for pursuing me with diligence and passion. You have no idea how humbled I am that you believe in me and have worked so hard on my behalf.
To Rolf Zettersten and Patsy Jones: Thank you for your faith in a first-time cookbook author, and special thanks to Keren Baltzer for your expertise and commitment to making this cookbook a beautiful experience for everyone who reads it.
To the people of Fellowship Bible Church NWA: Thank you for allowing me decades of opportunities to share my heart and home. You have modeled hospitality and kindness to my family more times than I can count. Your fingerprints are everywhere.
To the Euna Mae’s community: You have no idea how you have blessed me. I am filled up by your faithfulness and humbled by your patronage. Thank you for believing in the Love Welcome Serve message and for living it out in your own hearts and homes. Here’s to intentional kitchening together!
And finally to the Lord Jesus who gave me joy and purpose that I cannot keep to myself: Thank you for making all the difference in my life. May I live a life worthy.