February’s Flourish: Mardi Gras Celebrations, Wellness Wins & Embracing Intentional Living

Happy (almost) end of February, dear friends! This past month has truly been a whirlwind of activity, but I’m thrilled to report that it’s drawing to a close on an incredibly high note. And what better way to cap off the month than by looking forward to Mardi Gras? The festive spirit is already palpable, at least here in Denver, even if New Orleans has been celebrating for weeks!

The biggest cause for celebration on the home front is undoubtedly Babycakes having his boot off after his break last month. The relief, frankly, has been immense – not just for him, but for all of us! Seeing his little personality bounce back with full force, his energy levels soaring as he zooms around the house, has been pure joy. He’s moving around like crazy again, full of his usual playful antics, and I have to say, I definitely don’t miss the daily wrestling match of having to retie that cumbersome thing several times a day. It’s wonderful to see him so happy and unencumbered once more.

In other news that contributes to my personal high notes, I’m delighted to be back at the gym regularly. It feels absolutely amazing to dedicate time to my physical well-being and to love working on my strength again. There’s a profound sense of empowerment that comes from pushing your body and seeing the progress, not just in physical gains, but in increased mental clarity and energy. This routine has become a vital anchor in my week, helping me to feel grounded and energized amidst everything else.

Currently, my focus is also firmly set on navigating the final client deadlines for this month and meticulously planning my strategy for Q2 of this year. It’s a period of intense focus, but also one of exciting potential as I lay the groundwork for upcoming projects and goals. Balancing these professional commitments with personal wellness and family life is always a dynamic dance, but one I’m embracing with renewed purpose.

The truth is, a significant part of my journey this year has been realizing that I’ve been spending way too much time entangled in the complexities of social media. What once felt like a tool for connection and creativity had slowly but surely transformed into a relentless, energy-draining chore. The constant pressure to ‘perform,’ to chase ever-changing algorithms, and to keep up with the digital noise became a heavy burden. It had gotten away from what I truly love to do, which is creating meaningful content and connecting authentically. It became such a slog, and I was getting utterly exhausted by it all.

My guiding word for this year is “intentional,” and I am steadfastly committed to not letting social media lead me astray from that core principle. The digital world had started dictating my time and energy rather than serving as a supportive tool, creating a misalignment with my desire for purpose-driven living. This conscious realization has spurred a significant pivot in my approach.

So, instead of killing myself trying to make social media ‘happen’ in a way that drains me, I am wholeheartedly getting back to what I love and what I genuinely ENJOY doing. This means redirecting that energy towards deeper creative pursuits, immersing myself in the things that truly light me up, and finding joy in the tangible world around me. Plus, it naturally translates to a lot less time spent glued to my phone, which is something else I’m just getting sick of. It’s time to consciously step back, reconnect with the simple pleasures: delving into music that stirs my soul, getting lost in the pages of a captivating book, and truly experiencing the joy of the world that exists right in front of us, unplugged and present. Am I right?

Song of the Week

There’s something incredibly nostalgic and comforting about revisiting the music of the 2000s and 2010s. This week, I’ve had a strong pull towards that era, and specifically, I’m throwing it back to Tighten Up by The Black Keys. I used to listen to this song ALL the time back in the day, and it’s still just as good now as it was then. The raw energy, the catchy riff, and that distinctive Black Keys sound are simply timeless. If you haven’t given it a listen in a while, do yourself a favor and put it on. Don’t fight me on this – some classics are just undeniably good!

Foodie Things

My cravings have been on full throttle this month, and I’ve stumbled upon some absolute gems that I simply had to share. Prepare to have your taste buds activated!

• First on my list: I need a slice of this caramelized banana pudding pie IMMEDIATELY. It sounds like the ultimate comfort dessert, a perfect blend of creamy, sweet, and rich – truly irresistible and perfect for any indulgence.
• Also, for something a little brighter and equally delightful, a slice of this gorgeous iced lemon loaf is calling my name. The tangy lemon glaze combined with a soft, moist crumb is exactly what I crave for a perfect afternoon treat or a delightful breakfast.
• I’m utterly OBSESSED with the idea of this deep dish pizza bread – seriously, it looks incredible! With March Madness just around the corner, this is absolutely going straight onto my ‘must-make’ list. Imagine cheesy, savory goodness in every bite, ideal for game day gatherings or a cozy weekend meal.
• This easy bourbon chicken HAS to be on the menu for next week’s meal plan! It promises a flavorful, tender, and incredibly satisfying dish that feels both gourmet and totally doable on a busy weeknight.
• I’m definitely pinning this vibrant blood orange mimosa for the upcoming weekend. YUM. Its beautiful color and refreshing citrus notes make it the perfect celebratory drink for brunch or any relaxed gathering. A little burst of sunshine in a glass!
• Anyone else an elderberry fan? I’m completely intrigued by the idea of making this homemade elderberry syrup! Knowing its health benefits and how delicious it can be, I’m making it a priority to whip up a batch. It’s a wonderful way to boost wellness naturally.
• My love for ‘everything on toast’ has found a new obsession with these Zaalouk toasts with burrata. The creamy burrata paired with the flavorful Moroccan eggplant dip sounds like an exquisite combination for a sophisticated snack or a light lunch. Pure culinary genius!

Inspirational Things

Beyond the kitchen, I’ve also found a few nuggets of inspiration that have resonated deeply this month:

• Wintering with Audiobooks – This article spoke directly to my soul about learning how to slow down. One of the things I miss the most since having Babycakes is the uninterrupted time I would be able to listen to audiobooks. I mean, I would BURN through them! This article reminded me of that deep love for stories and the quiet comfort they bring, even if my listening time is now fragmented. It’s a gentle nudge to find those moments of stillness.
• Here are some fun tools to inspire your cooking journey in the kitchen! Sometimes, all it takes is a clever gadget or a new perspective to make cooking feel fresh and exciting again, encouraging exploration of your inner chef and sparking creativity.
• We all have those days where things just feel tough. That’s why I always appreciate a good dose of positivity. This collection of 90 bad day quotes to motivate and lift you up on a tough day is a fantastic resource for a quick pick-me-up, offering encouragement and a fresh perspective when you need it most. A little inspiration can truly go a long way!

Fun Things

Life isn’t all work and introspection; sometimes you just need a good laugh or a delightful distraction!

• This one is for all the parents out there (or soon-to-be parents): The best alcoholic beverages to pair with potty training. We aren’t quite there yet on our journey with Babycakes, but let me tell you, I am absolutely saving this for when we are. It perfectly captures the relatable (and often wine-worthy) challenges of raising little ones with a much-needed dose of humor.
• Who loves quizzes as much as I do? LOL. I like to think that those of you who read these monthly slices regularly are just as much about the quizzes as a fantastic (and utterly justifiable) waste of time as I am! They’re a delightful way to escape, learn something new about yourself, and just have a bit of lighthearted fun. So, here are some fun ones I’ve enjoyed recently:
  • Find a book that will make you (re)believe in magic – I got ‘Scatterlings’ by Martin Shaw, and it’s immediately been added to my ever-growing reading list! There’s something wonderful about rediscovering that sense of wonder through literature.
  • What book genre are you? Suspense/Thriller for me – NOT shocking at all since that’s my absolute favorite genre to read, especially psychological thrillers that keep you guessing! LOL. It’s fun to see these quizzes confirm what you already know (or surprise you!).
  • Which Practical Magic sister are you? Sally Owens, of course, for me! Practical, a little reserved, but fiercely loving and protective – sounds about right, even if I wish I had a bit more of Aunt Jet’s mystical flair.
  • Which Disney and Harry Potter Character Combo are you? I got Anna from Frozen and Harry Potter, which was a little surprising for me! I expected something perhaps a bit more intense, but I do appreciate Anna’s boundless optimism and Harry’s inherent goodness. It’s always intriguing to see what unexpected pairings these quizzes come up with.
  • Create a horror movie and see if you’d survive one – apparently, I get injured but the main character bravely carries me to safety! LOL. Phew – at least I don’t die a gruesome death in the first five minutes! These are truly entertaining ways to pass some time and get a good chuckle.

Mardi Gras Recipes

Even without ever stepping foot in the vibrant streets of New Orleans, my heart beats to the festive rhythm of Mardi Gras! For me, celebrating Fat Tuesday is all about embracing the incredible flavors, the rich history, and the joyous, vibrant spirit of this iconic festival right from my own kitchen. Food is truly the soul of Mardi Gras, and I love creating dishes that bring that unique energy and deliciousness into my home. Next week, as the festivities kick off, let these fantastic recipes inspire your own colorful celebration, whether you’re hosting a party or simply enjoying a taste of tradition!

Here’s some delicious inspiration to bring the spirit of Mardi Gras into your home:

• Bourbon Sazerac: Kick off your Mardi Gras celebration with a sophisticated classic. This potent cocktail, with its rich bourbon, aromatic bitters, and hint of absinthe, is a true taste of New Orleans elegance. Perfect for sipping as you toast to Fat Tuesday.
• Hatch Green Chile Gumbo: Dive into a hearty bowl of this flavorful gumbo. This twist on a traditional favorite adds a delicious kick with green chiles, making it a wonderfully comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd and soaking up the festive atmosphere.
• King Cake Crack Candy: For a sweet, utterly addictive treat, you absolutely must try this King Cake Crack Candy. It’s an easy-to-make, irresistible dessert that captures the vibrant colors and sweet essence of a classic King Cake in a fun, crunchy form. A guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any gathering!
• King Cake Donut Holes: These delightful King Cake Donut Holes are a perfect bite-sized way to enjoy the iconic flavors of Mardi Gras. Soft, sweet, and often beautifully glazed with festive colors, they’re fantastic for sharing (or not!) and bring a touch of carnival joy to any table.
• King Cake Daiquiri: Shake things up with a truly unique King Cake Daiquiri! This festive cocktail takes the beloved flavors of King Cake – sweet, creamy, and often with hints of cinnamon or vanilla – and transforms them into a refreshing, celebratory drink. It’s a truly distinctive way to enjoy the spirit of Mardi Gras in liquid form.

Don’t forget to check out my next Monthly Slice here for more updates, recipes, and fun finds!