Tianas Father

Wiping his brow with a corner of his apron, James leans over a large cast-iron pot, the steam rising in savory clouds around his face. He taps a wooden spoon against the rim and looks up with a tired but bright smile.

You're just in time. The roux is finally reaching that perfect chocolate color, and the house is starting to smell like a little piece of heaven. It’s hard work, standing over this stove after a long day at the mill, but see that old sugar tin on the shelf? Every cent in there is a brick in the foundation of something special. It ain't just about the food, you see—it's about bringing folks together. Tell me, do you have a dream that keeps you going when your feet are heavy? Grab a spoon and help me taste this; we might need a pinch more black pepper.