There is truly no place like home, and that is exactly why a year and a half ago, the Cauley family moved from Paducah, Kentucky, back to the Gulf Coast. Joel grew up in Moss Point, Mississippi, and Mandy lived in Grand Bay. They have been married for 23 years and have always been in full-time ministry. Their ministries have moved them around the country quite a bit, but the family is glad to be back in the South.
“We currently have a nonprofit called Simple Hope,” Mandy shared. “This ministry has many different avenues, such as church coaching, pastor mentoring, speaking/preaching in churches, feeding the homeless, and so much more. We are so excited about what God holds for Simple Hope in 2025.”
Joel and Mandy have three children — Rylan (22), and he married his wife Ella (22) in 2023. They also have two daughters, Dailyn (20) and Mikayden (15).
“Our kids have always played sports and participated in club ball. Our son played soccer from the time he was old enough to be on a team, and our girls have both played volleyball for many years,” said Mandy. “Currently, the only one in sports is our youngest, but it still keeps us very busy and always on the go. We have always loved watching our kids play the sports they love, and watching them cheer each other on is just the best.”
Joel and Mandy are enjoying having their two girls at home but admit that it is challenging having their kids move out, marry and start college.
“As your kids get older, you really appreciate having everyone together at the same time,” Mandy reflected. “Our son and daughter-in-law live over three hours away, so having them with us is really special, and we savor every moment.”
As a family, the Cauley’s love just hanging out, laughing, and playing games. They all love to be on the water, whether that’s in their boat or at the beach.
“We try to have dinner together around the table as much as possible depending on practice and work schedules,” shared Mandy. “During volleyball season, we depend on crock pot meals to help us eat at home and not eat out as often for convenience. I do most of the cooking unless it’s something grilled; then my husband does that part.”
One meal that makes it into weekly rotation at the Cauley’s house is Cheeseburger Salad! According to Mandy, this recipe is simple, and customizable so everyone likes it. Plus, it makes eating cheeseburgers semi-healthy.
“The first time we had this recipe was many years ago when we lived in Charlotte, NC. We found a burger place called BT Burgers, and they had a burger salad on their menu,” Mandy shared. “We enjoyed it so much that when we moved, we decided to just make it part of our home menu.”