About Us
Hi, I’m Joy!
You might know me as The Bayou Belle, where I’ve shared countless recipes and my love for cooking over the years. I’m still here—still creating, still cooking, and still finding joy in every moment in the kitchen.
In 2023, however, my life took a dramatic turn. After years of being very sick, I was finally diagnosed with cancer: Neuroendocrine peri-ampullary cancer—a mouthful, and unfortunately not the delicious kind. That year, I underwent a Whipple procedure (pancreaticoduodenectomy) to remove the tumors. While I hoped it would be the solution, it wasn’t as successful as we’d prayed, and in August 2025 I’ll be facing another surgery in hopes of finally resolving the ongoing issues.
Through it all, I continue to cook and share—updating new recipes and refreshing old favorites. But this space has become about more than food. It’s about resilience, encouragement, and finding comfort in creativity. Whether you’re navigating illness, juggling a busy life, or simply searching for good, soulful recipes, I hope you’ll find something here that nourishes and inspires you.
Update: November 2025
I’ve been doing really well since my Whipple reconstruction. This journey has stretched me in ways I never expected—physically, emotionally, and spiritually—but it has also deepened my appreciation for life on the other side of hard seasons. As Thanksgiving approaches, my heart feels especially full. I’m looking forward to gathering, giving thanks, and celebrating life and my family. I hope you’ll find recipes here that bring comfort, joy, and a little extra love to your own family table!
My passion
The moment I found the courage to step back into the kitchen and start experimenting again, something inside me came alive. Cooking didn’t just return—it reignited my passion for living. I’ve always been drawn to food, from stirring pots beside my parents to creating bold, messy, joy-filled dishes with my own children.
I love discovering new flavors out in the world, but I can never leave them there. I bring them home, chasing the memories they hold and recreating them one bite at a time. There’s magic in cooking a beautiful meal in your own kitchen—whether it’s a quiet moment just for yourself or a table full of laughter and friends.
Cooking is love made visible. It’s comfort, celebration, and connection all in one. My goal is to bring real ingredients and soulful recipes into your home—food that excites the senses, tells a story, and leaves everyone at the table wanting just one more bite. ✨
Our Vision
Before The Bayou Belle, there was Pure Joy Living. When I stepped into the world of social media, it naturally evolved into The Bayou Belle—a place where I shared my love for cooking and all of my favorite recipes. Then came my cancer diagnosis, and everything changed: how I eat, how I cook, and even how I love.
This space is for everyone—whether you’re just learning your way around the kitchen or you’ve been cooking for years. It’s also a place of encouragement and support for those facing cancer. Here, I share not only the hard truths, but also the unexpected beauty and joy that can emerge along the journey.
Follow along for Louisiana classics, fun and creative recipes, and heartfelt stories from my cancer journey. While you’re here, know this: I am living Pure Joy—and I hope you feel it too
Latest Blogs
