Introducing: Savored Melodies
This is where I’ll share a weekly round-up of things making my life lighter, sweeter, more joyful, more intriguing, and more meaningful. The things I pause & enjoy, like a savored melody.
tahini sugar cookie protein bars
This is what I made for Christmas as a high protein treat to reach for instead of digging my hand in the literal cookie jar. These were still decadent and fairly calorie dense, but at least they packed the nutrients as well. Not “empty calories” if you will. Lots of protein and fat, which prevented a full on sugar rush that would bring on jitters and crashing. Here’s the recipe!
2. Researching old songs
If you follow my singing work, then you know that I deliver lecture recitals on Parlor Songs that were written in Pittsburgh. Digging through the archives, I’ve uncovered some pretty incredible songs that likely haven’t had their melodies lifted off the page for 100+ years. I feel like an investigative journalist perusing old newspapers to uncover clues about who the composers were, the historical contexts of these songs, and why they mattered. It feels like a little bit of creative pioneering. Good for the soul I must say. You can listen to the song pictured above here and read about it here.
3. lakanto coffee syrup
Following Thanksgiving, I knew it was time to finally get my health in check postpartum. My baby is ten months old, and thanks to the habits I’ve implemented this last month, I’m finally feeling like myself again (more energy, fitting into my old jeans, and my gut health is much better). I can expand on what I did to prioritize my health, but simple swaps like this made a huge difference. I used to put honey or maple syrup in my coffee, which is fine for a treat, but everyday, the sugar made me feel “blah" (even if it is all-natural!). These monkfruit based sweeteners saved my coffee drink. I use the vanilla everyday in my cold-brew, and it’s almost gone…Don’t worry…I just ordered the gingerbread flavor.
4. My Christmas card collection
With the push to “go analog” in 2026, I’m taking the time to appreciate where my life already finds analog comforts. With the advent of social media and digital communication, Christmas cards don’t make much logical sense. That is precisely why they are important to me. They’re for fun. They’re for connection. And they require a lot of effort! If you sent us a Christmas card, I really do cherish that effort. I even received a homemade card this year from my best friend’s mother.
5. THe Little Christmas house by Tracy rees
This was the perfect cozy read to curl up with on Christmas. I listen at night when I get up with the baby, and it is such a comfort. The plot has plenty going on, it’s charming, and the protagonists are infinitely likable. Plus, if you’ve read Hidden Secrets at the Little Village Church, you will recognize the setting and even a character or two!