After surviving cancer and undergoing a reconstructed Whipple surgery, I’m finally able to enjoy simple days with my daughter again. This heartfelt story shares what life after treatment really looks like— gratitude, healing, fear, laughter, and learning to cherish ordinary moments that once felt impossible.

If you came here from the newsletter, welcome—pull up a chair and grab a fork. This Mardi Gras Pasta is one of those dishes born right in the middle of Carnival season, when the kitchen is messy, the music is loud, and there’s always another parade coming. It’s creamy, a little spicy, and packed with Cajun flavor, made with tender chicken or seafood and bright pops of bell pepper. Whether you’re feeding a crowd before Fat Tuesday or just craving something comforting with Louisiana soul, this is the kind of recipe that feels like home during Mardi Gras.

My cancer story didn’t start in a hospital— it started in the quiet years of being sick, dismissed by my doctor, and told I was just stressed and had diabetes. This chapter shares what happened before we knew what we were really fighting while my body was waving red flags everywhere.

Thanksgiving came and went in a blur of full plates, loud laughter, and a whole lot of gratitude. This year wasn’t about perfection—it was about presence. About food made with love, bodies that showed up even when they were tired, and hearts that knew just how far we’ve come. From the kitchen chaos to the quiet moments in between, this Thanksgiving reminded me that survival tastes a lot like comfort… and leftovers are proof you did something right. 🦃💛