Kevin Belton

1 month ago | nola.com | Kevin Belton

Because my wife Monica is not from New Orleans, she often has questions. Recently, she was curious about the wide space between West End and Pontchartrain boulevards, noting that it didn’t seem like it was supposed to be a park. I told her that in the 1830s, a canal was built linking Lake Pontchartrain to the Mississippi River to improve the city's transportation infrastructure.

2 months ago | nola.com | Kevin Belton

I met Monica in 2000 while I was teaching cooking classes. She had moved to a nearby area to pursue a graduate degree. She had come to New Orleans to pick up her grandmother from the airport and get to know the city. As part of their weekend, they decided to take my class. I remember that day so clearly. I did not want to look directly at her, but I didn’t want to take my eyes off her either. Luckily, she and her grandma stayed to talk after class. We exchanged contact info.

Jan 7, 2025 | nola.com | Kevin Belton

As the calendar year changes and we march into the new year, excitement starts to grow. We have fond memories of time spent with family and friends, telling stories and sharing meals. Yes, a good time was had, but as of Jan. 6, also known as Twelfth Night, it's Carnival time!Mom would start to take out her ball gowns and dad's tuxedo and shirts, placing them in the front of the closet.

Dec 7, 2024 | nola.com | Kevin Belton

It was Christmas Eve 1969, and the Belton family home on a quiet street in New Orleans was glowing with holiday warmth. Oscar and Sarah Belton had spent the day preparing for the festivities with 10-year-old me, whose excitement was contagious. For the past five months, it feels like we've been in a full sprint. So many holidays between November and March involve gathering around stun… My family loved our traditions.

Nov 12, 2024 | theadvocate.com | Kevin Belton

Monica and I are really looking forward to the Thanksgiving holiday break this year. It’s always been a time for us to slow down, relax and enjoy the warmth of being together and with our family. Thanksgiving in particular holds a special place in our hearts because of the traditions we’ve built over the years — both in the kitchen and around the table. One of the things we’re most excited about is getting creative with the leftovers.