Jana's Corner & One and Done Recipes

Life looks a little different these days, and I truly love the season I’m in. With our kids now grown—building lives of their own, buying homes, and raising families—my days are filled with new priorities that bring me joy, peace, and purpose.

At the heart of it all are my rescues. For years, our beloved cat Sis was a constant companion, full of love and personality. Losing her to FeLV was heartbreaking, and there’s still an ache where she once was. But in time, healing came in the form of Mia, another rescue cat whose sweet spirit has brought us comfort and joy. Alongside Mia, we have Ruby, and our newest addition, and her new partner-in-crime, Penny—another red heeler who adds twice the energy and fun. Life with rescues is never dull, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

I share this chapter of life with my husband Jim, my best friend and favorite adventure partner. We both work remotely, which means we get to enjoy the everyday moments together—morning coffee, mid-day laughs, and planning our next trip to our Florida getaway. Paddleboarding in the mangroves is my happy place, a perfect mix of nature and peace. I love playing pickleball with my friends at home and in Florida (the pickleball capital of the world!). When we’re home, I trade the paddleboard for a kitchen full of fresh ingredients, my growing passion for “intentional gardening”, and of course more pickleball.

One of the greatest joys of gardening has been creating a Monarch Waystation in our yard. Raising butterflies, watching them transform, and releasing them back into the world is such a rewarding reminder of patience, hope, and renewal. Each butterfly feels like a tiny miracle.

Family remains at the center of it all. From kids to grandkids, every get-together is full of laughter, love, and memory-making. Add in delicious food, sunshine, and the wagging tails (and paws!) of my rescues, and it’s easy to see what makes life so rich and beautiful in this season.

This space, Jana’s Corner, is where I share the little things that bring me happiness—cooking, gardening, rescues, butterflies, travel, and life’s simple joys. I hope you’ll find inspiration, connection, and maybe a recipe or two worth trying. Thanks for stopping by—I’m so glad you’re here.