Mom, Betty Jean was someone who radiated love and hospitality to everyone she knew. She had a great smile and laugh and loved being around people of all ages. Mom was an artist, a decorator, Bible teacher and avid reader. She had an eye for color that I am so thankful to have inherited. Mom was a fabulous Southern cook. Her Sunday roast and holiday tables were nothing short of mouth-watering and she was so careful about every detail that she didn't really want me (or anyone) to be in the kitchen with her when she was cooking, because she wanted to focus and not get distracted. My friends adored her and she always made everyone feel welcome. Mom had a passion for learning new things - I guess that's where I get it. She taught herself how to paint with watercolor and oils, how to sew and pressure can all kinds of vegetables and make jellies and jams, too! She collected recipes and nicknacks but truly had a gift for decorating and room design. In her later years, she became an interior designer, who did commercial and residential work and managed a decorator fabric store as well. She was kind and funny, smart and artsy and a beautiful soul. I miss her and think she'd be my greatest cheerleader in this new adventure!

Betty Jo Holmes, Mimi (my grandmother) was a talented florist with an eye for design, who made the best biscuits and pimento cheese I have ever eaten. She had a sharp tongue and a quick wit, and taught me that green is a color that goes with everything because it is the most prevalent color in nature. She was a fabulous cook, who fed her neighbors, ladies in her bridge club, and the prisoners and refugees at the work camp during WWII, where my PawPaw was a guard. She couldn't bear the thought of anyone going hungry and made sure those in her circle were not just fed, but fed well. Her parents died when she was young and she raised her little brother along with my uncle and mom and never made a difference between them. She was bossy, hilarious, creative and generous and loyal friend. Hmmm, I think I may have taken on a few of those traits!

Betty Jean and Betty Jo are the inspiration behind this little bakery. They were two of the most courageous, strong and brave, creative women I have ever known. They loved to laugh, too, so Betties Buns just seems to be a fitting tribute to two of my favorite Southern belles.