February Highlights: Mardi Gras Celebrations, Pet’s Recovery & Intentional Living

As February draws to a close, it’s hard to believe how quickly the month has flown by. While it’s certainly been a period packed with activity and its fair share of challenges, I’m thrilled to report that we are wrapping things up on a wonderfully positive note! The air is buzzing with excitement, especially here in Denver, as we prepare to embrace the festive spirit of Mardi Gras. Of course, I’m sure New Orleans has been in full swing celebrating for days, but for us, the anticipation builds towards Fat Tuesday!

One of the biggest reasons for our lifted spirits this month has been a significant milestone for our beloved Babycakes. Last month was quite worrying when he sustained a break, leading to him wearing a cumbersome boot. But I’m overjoyed to share that the boot is officially OFF! This has brought such immense relief and a palpable shift in his demeanor. He’s visibly happier, moving around with his usual boundless energy, and just generally thriving. Honestly, I don’t miss the constant battle of having to readjust and retie that stubborn boot multiple times a day. It feels like a return to normalcy for both of us, and his joyful antics are truly infectious.

Beyond Babycakes’ recovery, I’ve also been focusing on my personal well-being. It feels absolutely fantastic to be back at the gym, consistently engaging in workouts and diligently working on rebuilding my strength. The physical challenge and mental clarity that come with a regular fitness routine have been incredibly rewarding. This renewed energy is proving essential as I navigate the remaining client deadlines for the month and meticulously plan for a productive Q2 of this year. Balancing client work, personal goals, and home life always presents its unique rhythm.

Speaking of balance, a significant personal realization this month has been about my relationship with social media. The truth is, I’ve found myself spending an excessive amount of time trying to “figure it out” and keep up, which has unfortunately pulled me away from the core activities I genuinely love and find fulfilling. It had become less about connection and creativity, and more of a burdensome slog, leaving me feeling increasingly exhausted and detached from my true purpose. My guiding word for this entire year is “intentional,” and I am firmly committed to ensuring that my digital presence doesn’t hijack that intention. This means consciously re-evaluating where my energy is directed.

So, instead of pushing myself to the brink trying to force social media to “happen” in a way that doesn’t align with my values, I’m making a deliberate pivot. I’m actively getting back to the pursuits that truly ignite my passion and bring me genuine enjoyment. This shift also comes with the wonderful benefit of significantly less time spent glued to my phone screen—a habit I’ve grown quite weary of. It’s time to rediscover the simple, profound joys of life that exist right in front of us: immersing myself in the rich melodies of music, delving into captivating stories within books, and simply appreciating the vibrant beauty of the world around me. Don’t you agree that a little digital detox and a lot more real-world engagement is exactly what we need?

Song of the Week: A Nostalgic Jam

This month, my playlists have been heavily leaning into the fantastic sounds of the 2000s and 2010s. There’s something so comforting and energizing about revisiting those tracks that defined a significant period of my life. For this week’s highlight, I’m throwing it back to a definite classic: Tighten Up by The Black Keys. This song used to be on constant rotation for me, a go-to anthem for road trips and casual evenings alike. It’s got that raw, bluesy rock vibe that just gets your head bopping and your feet tapping. Even after all these years, the catchy guitar riffs and distinct vocals by Dan Auerbach haven’t lost an ounce of their appeal. It’s a testament to timeless music that still feels just as fresh and relevant today as it did when it first came out. Trust me on this one; you don’t want to fight me – this track is pure gold!

Foodie Finds & Culinary Inspirations

My culinary explorations this month have been a delightful journey, uncovering some truly irresistible recipes that I simply must share. From comforting classics to exciting new flavors, there’s always something delicious to discover:

• First up, I absolutely *need* a slice of this incredible caramelized banana pudding pie IMMEDIATELY. The combination of sweet, ripe bananas, creamy pudding, and a hint of caramel sounds like pure dessert heaven, evoking all the nostalgic comfort of a Southern classic with an elevated twist.
• Then there’s this gorgeous lemon loaf. Its bright, zesty flavor and tender crumb make it the perfect pick-me-up for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat with a cup of tea. It’s a delightful burst of sunshine on a plate.
• I am utterly OBSESSED with this concept of deep dish pizza bread. With March Madness just around the corner, this hearty, cheesy, and utterly satisfying creation is going straight to my game-day recipe board. It’s the ultimate comfort food for a gathering!
• An easy bourbon chickenrecipe simply HAS to be on the menu for next week’s meal plan. The sweet and savory glaze infused with bourbon promises a tender, flavorful chicken dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, bringing a touch of restaurant-quality taste right to your home.
• I’m definitely pinning this vibrant blood orange mimosa for the upcoming weekend. The stunning color and refreshing citrus notes of blood orange, combined with sparkling wine, make for an elegant and festive drink that’s perfect for a celebratory brunch or just a relaxed morning. YUM!
• Anyone else a big elderberry fan? Given its immune-boosting properties and distinctive flavor, I absolutely have to make this homemade elderberry syrup. It’s a wonderful way to harness natural goodness and have a versatile ingredient on hand for drinks, desserts, or wellness boosts.
• And finally, my latest obsession in the world of simple yet gourmet bites: these zaalouk toasts with burrata. I love everything on toast, and the smoky, spiced Moroccan eggplant dip (zaalouk) paired with creamy, fresh burrata sounds like an exquisite combination of textures and flavors. It’s an elevated appetizer or light meal that’s hard to resist.

Inspirational Insights for Mind & Soul

Finding moments of inspiration and focusing on personal growth has been a key theme this month. Sometimes, the most profound insights come from unexpected places:

• The concept of wintering with audiobooks resonated deeply with me. It’s all about learning how to slow down and embrace a period of rest and introspection, much like nature does in winter. Since having Babycakes, one of the things I’ve missed most is the dedicated time I used to have for listening to audiobooks. I mean, I would absolutely BURN through them, devouring stories and absorbing knowledge at an incredible pace! This insightful article served as a beautiful reminder of that quiet, immersive love for audiobooks and the importance of carving out space for such enriching, restorative activities in our busy lives.
• For those who love to experiment in the kitchen, these fun tools to inspire your cooking journey are a fantastic find. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, discovering unique gadgets can reignite your passion for cooking and make meal preparation more exciting and efficient. It’s amazing how a simple new tool can spark creativity and encourage you to try new techniques or recipes.
• We all have those days when things just feel tough. That’s why I found this compilation of 90 bad day quotes to motivate and lift you up on a tough day so incredibly helpful. A well-chosen quote can offer a fresh perspective, remind you of your resilience, and provide that much-needed boost of encouragement when you feel down. It’s a great resource to bookmark for those moments when you need a little mental pick-me-up.

Fun Diversions & Quizzical Delights

Life isn’t just about productivity and deadlines; it’s also about finding moments for laughter, playful escapism, and a bit of lighthearted fun. This month has been sprinkled with some truly entertaining discoveries:

• Let’s start with a dose of humor for parents-to-be or those in the thick of it: The best alcoholic beverages to pair with potty training. While we’re not quite at this stage with Babycakes yet, I’m definitely saving this one for when we are. It’s a hilarious and all-too-relatable take on the challenges of parenthood, offering a comedic lifeline for those taxing moments.
• Who else absolutely loves a good quiz like I do? I like to think that those of you who regularly read these monthly updates share my enthusiasm for quizzes as a fantastic, guilt-free way to waste a bit of time and learn something fun about yourself (or just get a good laugh!). So, without further ado, here are some fun ones I stumbled upon:
  • First, I took the quiz to find a book that will make you (re)believe in magic. I was delighted to get Scatterlings by Martin Shaw, and it’s already been added to my ever-growing reading list. It’s always wonderful when a quiz introduces you to a new literary gem!
  • Next, the intriguing question: What book genre are you? For me, the result was Suspense/Thriller—which, honestly, is NOT shocking in the slightest since it’s unequivocally my favorite genre to read. I love the thrill of a good mystery and the psychological suspense that keeps me on the edge of my seat!
  • Then there was the delightful “Which Practical Magic sister are you?” quiz. Unsurprisingly (and perfectly fitting for my personality), I was revealed to be Sally Owens. Her quiet strength and deep connection to family resonate strongly with me.
  • The “Which Disney and Harry Potter Character Combo are you?” quiz offered a rather surprising outcome for me. I got Anna from Frozen and Harry Potter himself! While I admire Harry’s bravery and Anna’s optimism, it was an unexpected pairing that certainly sparked some thought.
  • And finally, for a bit of spooky fun: “Create a horror movie and see if you’d survive one.” Apparently, in my cinematic nightmare, I get injured but am heroically carried to safety by the main character! LOL. I’ll take that outcome any day over being the first one to go!

Mardi Gras Recipes: A Taste of New Orleans

Even though I’ve never had the pleasure of experiencing the vibrant parades and lively atmosphere of Mardi Gras in New Orleans firsthand, I absolutely LOVE celebrating it from afar. For me, the best way to immerse myself in the spirit of Fat Tuesday is through its incredible, rich, and flavorful cuisine. It’s a wonderful excuse to gather with loved ones, indulge in decadent treats, and savor dishes that bring a taste of Louisiana right into my kitchen. With Fat Tuesday just around the corner next week, here’s some delicious inspiration to help you kick off your own festive celebration:

• The Bourbon Sazerac is a quintessential New Orleans cocktail, offering a sophisticated blend of rye whiskey (or bourbon), absinthe, Peychaud’s bitters, and a lemon peel garnish. It’s a strong, aromatic drink that perfectly captures the essence of classic NOLA mixology – a must-try for any Mardi Gras celebration.
• Warm your soul with a hearty bowl of Hatch Green Chile Gumbo. This recipe offers a delightful twist on the traditional Louisiana stew, incorporating the smoky, vibrant flavor of Hatch green chiles with the rich, savory depth of a classic gumbo. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd and embodies true Southern comfort.
• For a sweet and addictive treat, you absolutely have to make King Cake Crack Candy. This easy-to-make candy features layers of buttery crackers, a rich caramel sauce, and festive sprinkles, mirroring the iconic colors of Mardi Gras. It’s a delicious and fun dessert that disappears quickly!
• These King Cake Donut Holes are a delightful and bite-sized way to enjoy the flavors of the traditional King Cake. They’re soft, fluffy, and coated with a sweet glaze and colored sugars, making them an ideal treat for sharing (or not!) during your Mardi Gras festivities.
• And finally, to truly get into the festive spirit, mix up a vibrant King Cake Daiquiri. This playful cocktail captures the essence of King Cake in liquid form, combining sweet and creamy notes with a touch of rum, making it a perfectly indulgent and celebratory drink for Fat Tuesday.

Craving more? Don’t miss out on more monthly reflections, recipes, and lifestyle tips! Check out my next Monthly Slice here for another dose of inspiration and fun!