Mary Helen's Shrimp Dip
This is a dish Mary Helen is known for in her family and friend group. And I am SO glad she chose to share it with us because, if you make this for your family, you’re going to be famous for it, too. If you like shellfish and spicy food, this super quick and easy side dish is out-of-this-world good!
A note on spicy: Mary Helen likes this dish with a kick. I’m glad about that because I absolutely love horseradish. So, here’s the thing: most prepared horseradish cream sauces won’t have a really good kick. To make this dish really shine, it’s important to use a high quality horseradish.
Mary Helen is a fan of Silver Spring Foods, which you can generally find at Publix, Kroger and possibly other grocery stores, or Atomic (find online).
Full transparency, my grocery store didn’t have these brands, so I did end up getting a prepared horseradish cream sauce by Boar’s Head, and even Mary Helen was impressed! We were surprised. It had a KICK!
This dish is versatile for holidays and celebrations all throughout the year. Spread the cream cheese mixture onto a red plate for Christmas, silver platter for New Years, or choose your favorite dish for a birthday. The green onions and lemon peel bring beautiful color to the presentation. This shrimp dish is a crowd pleaser in both taste and looks.
Bonappetite!
Try the Drink…
French 75 Cocktail
My guest in Ep. 05, Mary Helen Yarbrough, brought over this classic cocktail recipe, which pairs beautifully with the shrimp dip you just made! She also shared a few insider secrets about how to make the best drinks. It’s all waiting for you here!
Catch the episode!
Ep. 05 - Choose Your Attitude, Choose Your Life with Mary Helen Yarbrough
Ep. 05: Choose Your Attitude, Choose Your Life - with Legendary Fitness Instructor, Mary Helen Yarbrough
A teacher of mine once told me, “To the extent you experience darkness, you will have the capacity to experience that same degree of light.”
Have you ever heard something like that?
Well, let me tell ya, Mary Helen Yarbrough is no stranger to darkness. She experienced profound losses in her teen and young adult years that sent her life into a spiral.
So, maybe that explains why she is one of the most authentically positive and inspirational people in my life (and in many others’ lives, as well).
In Episode 5 of Happiest Hour, we don’t hold back. Mary Helen tells her story of loss and pain, as well as sharing her life philosophy that makes her life tick, and so much more.
Listen on your favorite podcast app or watch on YouTube!
Ep. 05: Choose Your Attitude, Choose Your Life - with Legendary Fitness Instructor, Mary Helen Yarbrough
A teacher of mine once told me, “To the extent you experience darkness, you will have the capacity to experience that same degree of light.”
Have you ever heard something like that?
Well, let me tell ya, Mary Helen Yarbrough is no stranger to darkness. She experienced profound losses in her teen and young adult years that sent her life into a spiral.
So, maybe that explains why she is one of the most authentically positive and inspirational people in my life (and in many others’ lives, as well).
If you have followed me for a while, you know that I am not shy about sharing how much I love taking Jazzercise from Mary Helen. She was recently featured on our largest news station where our star news anchor, Tracy Kornet (who also attends our Jazzercise class) called her a, “legend.” I will second that!
We don’t hold back in this episode. Mary Helen tells her story of loss and pain, as well as sharing her life philosophy that makes her life tick.
In this conversation, we also cover:
Her story of loss that made her who she is today
Where she got her work ethic
How weekly Happy Hours led her to discover Jazzercise
How she built her legendary (yes, legendary!) Nashville fitness business over 40 years ago as a busy wife and mom
Debunking the 80’s stereotype of Jazzercise (no, we don’t wear leg warmers)
Why her classes feel fun, inclusive and safe
Her secret to success for maintaining relationships and a strong business
The choice she makes daily that makes her so impactful to others
Spoiler alert: we get into some heavy conversation, including mental health and mention of suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling, please know that 24 hour support is available to you by simply dialing 988 from your phone.
Something else you’re going to want to know about Mary Helen: she is a fabulous cook! And her husband is retired from the liquor industry, so this woman knows how to mix a dang good cocktail.
Make sure you check out the 2 recipes Mary Helen brought to pair with this episode!
Get your recipes and show notes right here:
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Want to try a Jazzercise class with Mary Helen and me? If you are local to Nashville, then click here!
If you are not local to Nashville, but would like to try Jazzercise in your area (or On Demand), visit https://www.jazzercise.com/
You can also find Mary Helen on Instagram.
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The Happiest Hour theme song was written and performed by... me! If you'd like to hear more of my music, click here!
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Keep scrolling to get your recipes! They’re just below. ↓
Don’t Forget the Recipes!
We paired two delicious recipes with this episode. Get them below.
Cheers!
French 75 Cocktail
Mary Helen’s Shrimp Dip
More Happiest Hour…
The Very Best Shepherd's Pie
My college besties, Kelly and Kelsey, and I used to make this dip all the time when we had an off-campus apartment. So, when Ashley from The Wildcards recommended something similar to pair with our podcast episode, I was super excited!
I’ll be honest, I eyeball everything in this recipe. Just sprinkle the herbs and spices to your taste. You can’t mess this up.
We didn’t add heat with jalapeno, but you certainly can if you like a little kick. Or use a can of Rotel instead of tomatoes.
I’m telling ya, once you start eating this dip with tortilla chips, you won’t be able to stop! It’s so good and couldn’t be easier to make. This dish is the perfect idea for a potluck or holiday party. Just dump it all together and go!
Try the Drink…
Home-made Spiced Chai
My guest in Ep. 04, Cindy Landham brought over this recipe for warm and cozy homemade spiced chai latte. This cup of magic will make you want to curl up under a blanket with a good book. Get the recipe here!
Catch the episode!
Ep. 04 - Being Well is an Inside Job with Cindy Landham
Homemade Spiced Chai Latte
For Episode 4, my guest, Cindy Landham, brought over a recipe for homemade chai tea. The condensed milk in this recipe makes it so creamy and delicious! The aroma of cinnamon, cloves and other spices will make your house smell incredible while it simmers on the stove. Sipping this sweet mixture just make you feel cozy, calm and nourished.
So, curl up with a good book, cuddle under a blanket and try this recipe for yourself!
Try this One Pot Supper…
The Family Wash is a restaurant/music venue that has moved locations and taken on several iterations over the years here in Nashville. Their shepherd’s pie is famous in this city! I hacked the recipe at home and it tastes pretty dang similar. Here’s the recipe for a one pot dinner that will be a hit with your family and last you a few days in left overs. Enjoy!
The Very Best Shepherd’s Pie
Catch the Episode!
Ep. 04 - Food is Not Your Problem, Dieting is Not Your Answer with Cindy Landham
Ep. 04: Food is not your problem, Dieting is not Your Answer - with Cindy Landham
Have you ever felt guilty about eating something? I'm talking, really guilty. Maybe it even sent you down a shame spiral. Do you ever sneak food, or avoid food all together because it's just too hard to control? After you over indulge, do you exercise harder than usual to balance the "damage" you've done? Do you vow to "do better" tomorrow (or when Monday rolls around)? Have you lost and re-gained the same pounds over and over again?
Then, listen up! Most American adults have experienced these thoughts and feelings. I know I sure have. If this sounds like you, too, then this episode is for you.
Before you set your New Years Resolutions around your health for this coming year, please listen to this episode of Happiest Hour with my guest, Liberated Eating Coach, Cindy Landham.
Ep. 04 Food is Not Your Problem, Dieting is Not Your Answer with Cindy Landham
Have you ever felt guilty about eating something? I'm talking, really guilty. Maybe it even sent you down a shame spiral. Do you ever sneak food, or avoid food all together because it's just too hard to control? After you over indulge, do you exercise harder than usual to balance the "damage" you've done? Do you vow to "do better" tomorrow (or when Monday rolls around)? Have you lost and re-gained the same pounds over and over again?
Then, listen up! Most American adults have experienced these thoughts and feelings. I know I sure have. If this sounds like you, too, then this episode is for you.
Here's the good news: there is a path to freedom from obsessive thoughts surrounding food, exercise and body shaming.
Here's even more good news: this path doesn't involve dieting, shakes, pills, pre-packaged food, counting points and calories, or even joining a gym.
Before you set your New Years Resolutions around your health for this coming year, please listen to this episode of Happiest Hour with my guest, Liberated Eating Coach, Cindy Landham.
It could change your life. I know, that's a bold statement, but she sure has changed mine.
In this episode, we cover:
• Why diet culture is failing us
• Traditional thinking vs. liberated thinking around our health and wellness
• When parents are the food police
• What loving your body really means
☕️ Whoa! All foods fit from Cindy’s perspective, so you better bet we paired this episode with two delicious recipes! Check out Cindy's homemade, made-from-scratch spiced chai latte. This tea will leave you feeling so comfy, warm and nourished.
And I'm sharing the shepherd's pie recipe that has become a tradition for my husband and me during the holidays.
Keep scrolling to get your recipes! They’re just below. ↓
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Get to know Cindy by visiting her at her website and on Facebook.
If you can’t wait for the results of the book drawing and want a copy of Cindy’s book now, you can snag a copy here!
Get Cindy’s Book!
Get a copy of Cindy’s book and get started on your liberating journey!
Don’t Forget the Recipes!
We paired two delicious recipes with this episode. Get them below.
Cheers!
Homemade Spiced Chai
The Very Best Shepherd’s Pie
More Happiest Hour…
Cowboy Caviar
My college besties, Kelly and Kelsey, and I used to make this dip all the time when we had an off-campus apartment. So, when Ashley from The Wildcards recommended something similar to pair with our podcast episode, I was super excited!
I’ll be honest, I eyeball everything in this recipe. Just sprinkle the herbs and spices to your taste. You can’t mess this up.
We didn’t add heat with jalapeno, but you certainly can if you like a little kick. Or use a can of Rotel instead of tomatoes.
I’m telling ya, once you start eating this dip with tortilla chips, you won’t be able to stop! It’s so good and couldn’t be easier to make. This dish is the perfect idea for a potluck or holiday party. Just dump it all together and go!
Try the Drink…
Merry Margarita
My guest in Ep. 03, The Wildcards and I made this delicious craft cocktail together. This variation of a margarita is the perfect idea for the holidays and pairs well with the Cowboy Caviar dip! Grab the recipe here!
Catch the episode!
Ep. 03 - Jumping in the Driver’s Seat with The Wildcards
Merry Margarita
Two words sum up The Wildcards: Good Vibes.
As their party anthems can attest, Ashley and Andrea know how to have a good time. When I asked them what drink they’d like to pair with their episode, I knew they’d have something great to share. They did not disappoint!
This variation on a margarita is subtle and super delicious. We used Elderflower Liquor (aka St. Germain) instead of orange flavor. The liquor elevates this cocktail making it perfect for the holidays!
So, pour you a glass of this yummy marg and join us for Ep. 03!
Cheers!
Try this Easy Side Dish…
I’m telling ya, once you start eating this Cowboy Caviar dip with tortilla chips, you won’t be able to stop! It’s so good and couldn’t be easier to make. This dish is the perfect idea for a potluck or holiday party. Just dump it all together and go! Here’s the recipe for the easy weekend recipe paired with this week’s Happiest Hour episode. Give it a try for yourself!
Cowboy
Caviar
Catch the Episode!
Ep. 03 - Jumping in the Driver’s Seat with The Wildcards
Ep. 03: Jumping in the Driver's Seat with The Wildcards
In Ep. 03 of Happiest Hour, my guests are Ashley Gearing and Andrea Young -- collectively known as the critically acclaimed duo, The Wildcards. You've heard about this electric duo through American Songwriter, CMT and on stages opening for superstars like Joe Nichols and Chris Lane. We chat about how they are taking control of the creative process, why they jumped into the producer seat for their latest music releases and so much more!
Ep. 03 Jumping in the Driver’s Seat with The Wildcards
Welcome to Episode 03 of Happiest Hour! My guests are Ashley Gearing and Andrea Young -- collectively known as the critically acclaimed duo, The Wildcards.
You've heard about this electric duo through American Songwriter, CMT and on stages opening for superstars like Joe Nichols and Chris Lane. In today's episode, we chat about how they are taking control of the creative process and why they jumped into the producer seat for their latest music releases.
We also cover:
• Creating the ✨ "Friday Night Feeling" ✨ for their fans
• What it's like being a part of Fox's new hit drama, Monarch
• Why it's so important to be a good hang on the road
🍹 We paired this episode with a Merry Margarita -- the traditional tequila classic you love with a little extra “jingle jangle.”
Don't forget to check out our easy weekend side dish: Cowboy Caviar! It's the perfect companion to that margarita. My college roommates and I used to make this all the time, so when Ashley suggested it, I was excited! We put our own spin on this super simple dip.
Get your recipes below!
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Catch The Wildcards' good vibes by following them on Instagram and listening to their music on Spotify.
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The Happiest Hour theme song was written and performed by... me! If you'd like to hear more of my music, click here!
Don’t Forget the Recipes!
We paired two delicious recipes with this episode. Get them below.
Cheers!
Merry Margarita
Cowboy Caviar Dip
More Happiest Hour…
Ep. 02: The Importance of Keeping it Super Real - Jenny Gill
In episode 2 of Happiest Hour, my guest is film director, recording artist, and daughter of country music royalty, Jenny Gill. Jenny is one of the most hilarious and authentic people I know. Listen in as she talks about forging her own path in TV and film, finding work/life/mom balance and why she thinks it so important to keep her social media super real.
Jenny Gill could make anyone laugh — and usually does.
In Episode 2, my guest is film director, recording artist, wife and mother of two, Jenny Gill. She might as well add “comedian” to her bio because she is one of the most hilarious people you’ll ever meet. In this world of highlight reels and social media, she is determined to keep her humor and authenticity front and center.
Jenny and I chat about why it’s so important to her to keep her social media, and her life, super real. We also cover:
• What being the daughter of country music royalty has taught her
• Finding her own path in life
• How to balance career, friendship and motherhood… or not.
Follow along Jenny’s hilarious Instagram feed and enjoy her music on Spotify.
Don’t Forget the Recipes!
We paired two delicious recipes with this episode. Get them below.
Cheers!
Bourbon Cowboy Twist
Bourbon Vanilla Apple Cider Donuts
More Happiest Hour…
Bourbon Cowboy Twist Cocktail
When I asked my guest in Ep. 02, Jenny Gill, if she had a special drink she’d want to share with us, she shot me back a text super quick with an entire recipe. It turns out her husband, Josh, created his own bourbon cocktail that they sip at home and can’t get enough of. Now we get to enjoy it for ourselves! (Thanks for sharing your magic elixir with us, Josh!)
Jenny and I made this delicious craft cocktail together. I can attest: it is delicious. You bourbon lovers out there are gonna love this one.
So, dust off your rocks glass and get ready to embibe with us!
Cheers!
P.S. Did you know that every week when I launch a new episode of the Happiest Hour, I release an Instagram reel of my guests and me making our recipes? Check out Jenny and me mixing up the Bourbon Cowboy Twist here!
Try this Easy Dessert…
Trust me on this: you don’t need a lot of culinary skill to master these delicious donuts. If I can do it, YOU can do it. These were a big hit with my in-laws on Thanksgiving. They might just become our family’s new fall tradition! Here’s the recipe for the easy weekend recipe paired with this week’s Happiest Hour episode. Give them a try for yourself!
Vanilla Bourbon Apple Cider Donuts
Catch the Episode!
Ep. 02 - The Importance of Keeping it Super Real - Jenny Gill
Bourbon Vanilla Apple Cider Donuts
I tried this recipe for Thanksgiving this year and it was a HUGE hit! I was planning to try a different recipe for fried donuts, but lets be honest. Mama didn’t need the stress of burning down the kitchen with experimental donut frying while chasing after a toddler on Thanksgiving morning.
I’ll tell you what I was thankful for: this recipe for baked apple cider donuts! Frying is a big “no.” Baking I can do! My recipe is adapted from Sally’s Baking Addiction. I tweaked a few ingredients and added my own twist. My in-laws loved them. I’ll make them again!
Make sure you reduce your apple cider on the stove to pack a punch of flavor in the donuts. Allow the cider to cool before using it in the recipe. I reduced mine the night before to get a head start.
You also want to make sure your donuts are cooled enough to handle before trudging them into the topping.
Other than those two quick notes, this recipe is really simple and easy to make. These donuts might just become a fall tradition in my house!
Try the Drink…
Bourbon Cowboy Twist
Catch the episode!
Ep. 02 - The Importance of Keeping it Super Real - Jenny Gill
Ep. 01: The Power of Persistence - Whitney Duncan
In this inaugural episode of Happiest Hour, my guest is recording artist, songwriter and reality TV star, Whitney Duncan. You may recognize Whitney from her single, “Skinny Dippin’” or from her appearances on Survivor, Nashville Star and The Amazing Race!
Ep. 01 The Power of Persistence - Whitney Duncan
In this inaugural episode of Happiest Hour, my guest is recording artist, songwriter and reality TV star, Whitney Duncan. You may recognize Whitney from her single, “Skinny Dippin’” or from her appearances on Survivor, Nashville Star and The Amazing Race!
Whitney shares about the power of persistence in both her personal and work life. We also cover:
• Being multi-passionate and finding balance between a variety of interests
• How to navigate the different career phases of a professional musician
• We unexpectedly took a deep dive into our family planning stories — including IVF struggles and pregnancy loss.
If you watch the live video of this episode on YouTube, you’ll notice that Whitney is pregnant! Her little bundle of joy came a few weeks early and she is now living the full-on mom life!
Follow along Whitney’s journey on her Instagram and listen to her music on Spotify.
Don’t Forget the Recipes!
We paired two delicious recipes with this episode. Grab them below. Cheers!
Hack for Super Creamy Hot Chocolate
Classic Roasted Root Vegetables - Perfect for your holiday table!
More Happiest Hour…
Jeb's Super Creamy Hot Chocolate
Music, friendship and food are three of my favorite things. When I first hatched the plan for my new podcast, Happiest Hour, I knew I wanted to chat with my guests over a delicious beverage and share recipes. In Ep. 01, my guest is recording artist, reality TV star, and super pregnant, Whitney Duncan!
I turned to my supporters in our private Facebook group to find a few good recipes I could share. They had some great suggestions!
One idea came from Jeb in Virginia. It’s really more of a hack than a recipe, but it’s a darn good way make simple hot chocolate super creamy and kid-friendly so that the whole family can get involved! This was a perfect choice for Whitney, my mama-to-be podcast guest.
A hand frother or a blender will be your best friend for this hack. And don’t forget the marshmallows!
Try this Easy Side…
Classic Roasted Root Vegetables
Add beautiful color and delicious nutrition to your holiday table with this quick and easy side dish!
This nutritious and delicious side dish will be the perfect addition to your holiday table! Get the easy weekend recipe paired with this week’s Happiest Hour episode here.
Catch the Episode!
→ More Happiest Hour Episodes
Ep. 01 - The Power of Persistence - Whitney Duncan
Classic Roasted Root Vegetables
This is the PERFECT side dish for your holiday table! And it’s easy as pie to make — except it’s more nutritious than pie. 😉 This rustic roasted veggie dish will add beautiful color to your plate.
Dan doesn’t even like cooked carrots, but he LOVES this dish. And can we take a moment to talk about fennel? I’ve been sleeping on fennel! One of Dan’s favorite recipes that I cook utilizes fennel seed, but I have never tried the real thing until recently. Now, I slice raw fennel into my salads, I use the fronds in homemade salad dressings, and I chop it into wedges for this beautiful dish. If you’re not familiar with fennel either, don’t let it intimidate you. Treat it just like an onion. Trim off the ends, peel back the top layer and you’re good to go.
Check out how easy and delicious getting your veggies in will be with this easy weekend side dish:
Try this Beverage…
Super Creamy Hot Chocolate
In Episode 01 of Happiest Hour, my guest, Whitney Duncan, and I tried this hack that will make your next cup of hot chocolate super creamy. Check out the drink recipe paired with this week’s Happiest Hour episode here.
Catch the Episode!
Ep. 01 - The Power of Persistence - Whitney Duncan
How the Happiest Hour was Born
How “taking over” Living with Landyn’s Instagram feed for a day planted the seed for the Happiest Hour Podcast and why shining a spotlight on the inspirational people in my life feels so important.
Catch the Trailer…
Over the summer, I had the opportunity to “take over” the Instagram page of one of my favorite lifestyle entrepreneur’s, Landyn Hutchinson of Living with Landyn. For one day, I shared what it’s like in a day-in-the-life of a professional singer/songwriter, my favorite life hacks, recipes, books, and most importantly (to me), inspirational people and organizations that have transformed my life.
I received a bunch of DM’s on my Instagram page asking me for more information and recommendations. I mean… what?! I’m a working singer/songwriter mom having a little fun playing “Landyn” for a day. I did NOT expect people to turn to me for advice on life or lipgloss.
One of the most popular questions I received from that day was: how do you foster such a strong sense of community in your life as an adult, and how can I find ways to transform my own life?
Sometimes social media can feel super gross and self-indulgent to me, but it felt so comfortable and fun to shine a spotlight on other people in my life. Then to go a step further and realize that by sharing about who and what inspired me was actually helping other people… whew! That felt fulfilling!
That’s when it hit me.
I took inventory about what was so meaningful to me about that Instagram takeover day. Authentic connection, fostering community, fun, food, drinks… well, heck. That sounds like one of my favorite things: happy hour!
“But better,” I thought to myself. What’s better than happy hour?
The Happiest Hour!
The idea for the Happiest Hour was conceived.
Lauren Lucas with her first guest, recording artist and reality TV star, Whitney Duncan.
I hope you enjoy this inaugural season of the Happiest Hour. It’s a space to find inspiration and feel authentically connected with the world around you. I interview the most inspiring people in my life in the fields of music, film, wellness, and creative entrepreneurship. You’ll find a shot of humor and a dash of down-to-earth grit in each episode. My guests and I don’t shy away from real talk! Plus, we pair a delicious beverage and an easy weekend recipe with each episode. You can find the recipes and more information about my guests right here on my website.
Find the Happiest Hour on your favorite podcast platform or watch the live interview on YouTube.
The trailer is available NOW! Click the buttons below to enjoy. ↓
The Best of Happiest Hour
Savory & Salty Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
There are so many flavor variations out there for roasting pumpkin seeds. My personal favorite is a savory and salty seasoning that’s easy and delicious! I got the thumb’s up from my son, who loved the taste. My home smelled cozy and amazing during the roasting process, which is an extra bonus! Plus, I’m saving some money because nuts and seeds are expensive! I’ll eat a handful of seeds as a snack, sprinkle them in soup or on top of my salad for lunch.
Read on to get the recipe for perfectly roasted savory and salty pumpkin seeds.
When I was in college, my roommates and I would visit Gentry Farms in Franklin, TN and pick the perfect pumpkin, then carve a jack-o-lantern just before Halloween. I’m almost positive it was a Martha Stewart recipe for roasting pumpkin seeds that initially inspired me, and now I look forward to roasting my jack-o-lantern’s seeds every year. I doesn’t get more fall than that!
My two year old and I carved our jack-o-lantern this weekend and roasted the seeds. These days, I just go by memory for the recipe, so I’m sharing with you how I seasoned and achieved perfectly roasted pumpkin seeds.
There are so many flavor variations out there for roasting pumpkin seeds. My personal favorite is a savory and salty seasoning that’s easy and delicious! I got the thumb’s up from my son, who loved the taste. My home smelled cozy and amazing during the roasting process, which is an extra bonus! Plus, I’m saving some money because nuts and seeds are expensive! I’ll eat a handful of seeds as a snack, sprinkle them in soup or on top of my salad for lunch.
Read on to get the recipe for perfectly roasted savory and salty pumpkin seeds.
Recipe card for Savory & Salty Roasted Pumpkin Seeds by Lauren Lucas
Sweet & Spicy Avocado Toast
I don’t know about you, but I tend to eat the same thing for breakfast over and over again until I’m sick of it. Then, I stand in front of the refrigerator with the doors flung wide open wondering what to make because nothing sounds good.
Enter: sweet & spicy avocado toast!
Read on to learn how to make this super quick and easy breakfast recipe.
I have been LIVING for this avocado toast variation. I don’t know about you, but I tend to eat the same thing for breakfast over and over again until I’m sick of it. Then, I stand in front of the refrigerator with the doors flung wide open wondering what to make because nothing sounds good.
Enter: sweet & spicy avocado toast!
I used to make the standard avo toast — a little avocado sprinkled with salt. Or, I’d throw an egg on top. Those are good, but this recipe takes it to the next level for flavor.
My wellness coach, Cindy, first recommended I try this breakfast staple with gorgonzola cheese for some extra flavor. Cheese may as well be my love language, so I was all in for this suggestion. And the gorgonzola does pack a delicious punch!
Then, I started getting creative and improvising. It’s very mediterranean of me to combine pistachios and honey. That’s such a yummy combo! If you get Mike’s Hot Honey (or a similar brand), you’ll get just the right amount of heat.
On the other hand, I use regular honey (no heat) and remove the pistachios for my toddler. He loves the more simplistic avo toast with a little gorgonzola. (That seems awfully fancy for a 2-year-old, but he can’t get enough!)
I’m a busy mama trying to get the household together in the mornings and out the door. This sweet and spicy avocado recipe is super quick and easy. I also love that it’s full of nutrition with the whole wheat bread, healthy fats from the avocado and added protein from the nuts.
Give this variation a try. Or try your own variation and let me know what you come up with!
More You Might Like…
3 Things Every Songwriter Should Know About Using Imagery
As I'm preparing to teach my songwriting class at Belmont University, I'm reminded of something my friend Jamie Floyd shared with the audience about songwriting at our recent show at the Bluebird Cafe: the more detailed and personal the lyrics, the more universal the message for the listener. It seems counterintuitive, but it's true. In fact, the text we use for our songwriting class begins with this very lesson. Read on to learn 3 things to remember when using imagery in your lyrics…
Read on and you’ll see what I mean. Here are 3 things songwriters should remember about using imagery in their lyrics:
The other day, I was preparing for the next lesson in my songwriting class at Belmont University. The lesson was about using description and imagery. I was reminded of something my friend, Jamie Floyd, shared with the audience at the Bluebird Cafe about songwriting at our recent show together: the more detailed and personal the lyrics, the more universal the message for the listener. That might sound counterintuitive, but it's true.
Image by my friend and former band mate, Clint McKoy!
One way to make a song’s message universal is by using imagery. Read on and you’ll see what I mean. Here are 3 things songwriters should remember about using imagery in their lyrics:
Make the details personal: The steady “tap tap tap” sound of summer rain dripping out of the gutter is the backbeat of my backyard. Water pools in this one little dip of our flagstone patio. It doesn’t stand a chance. High-pitched squeals and the faint smell of rubber come crashing through the backdoor as my toddler’s yellow boots aim right for the puddle: splat!
In my head, I am seeing exactly the way my backyard looks after it rains. I see where the gutter hangs on the corner of my house, and where my son’s favorite puddle forms on our back patio.
You have no clue what my backyard looks like, and you don’t have to in order to make a connection to that image. While I’m describing my backyard after a summer rain, your brain is likely envisioning an experience you’ve had about summer rain. When we draw from details in our own lives, our experiences transfer to the mind’s eye of our listener. Our audience inputs imagery from their own life or imagination.
Use poetic license: In Pat Pattison’s book, Writing Better Lyrics, he warns songwriters not to let reality get in the way of the truth. Yes, drawing from our own lives can help us jumpstart a song idea, but we don’t have to tell every detail exactly the way it happened. The truth lives in the universal emotion of our human stories. Allow your imagination to wander. Have some fun! If it’s better for the song to make the car a little red Rodeo with Texas plates (who caught my 90’s Collin Raye reference?! 🙋🏻♀️), but in reality, it was a Honda Civic, go with the candy apple red Rodeo!
You can train your brain: My mom recently reminded me that one of my greatest music teachers growing up, Dr. Dick Goodwin, told her years ago that people think songwriting is an innate talent, but in fact, it is absolutely a learned skill. You can get better at using imagery in your writing simply by practicing. Here’s an idea: after you wake up and get your first cup of coffee, set a timer for 5 minutes. Think of a childhood memory and describe it in as much detail as possible. Allow your language to show rather than tell. When time is up, stop writing. The next morning, choose a different childhood memory and do it again. Then do it again the next day. And again the next. And the next. Pretty soon, your brain will become accustomed to looking for the details more quickly and with greater ease.
As listeners, we all know that incredible feeling when a song speaks directly to us; like somehow the songwriter must have jumped in our skin and lived our life when we weren’t looking. As songwriters, we yearn to write songs that make people feel that way. Keeping your imagery detailed and personal is a great way to aim at the heart of your listener.
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How to Write a Song When You’re Out of Ideas
Every songwriter has a blank page problem. Here's how to fill it.
Lauren lost in a song — the best kind of lost.
If you are a songwriter, then you have a problem.
Relax. I’m not talking about Hemingway-sized alcoholic tendencies or crazy dark mood swings (although, many creative writers have those problems, as well). Your problem as a writer is a blank page. Our job as songwriters is to take the essence of an idea, marry it with emotion and make it rhyme in 15 to 20 lines of lyric.
So, how are we going to fill that page?
In my experience with co-writing and talking to my peers in the songwriting community, it seems no one finds inspiration the same way. Some people start with a lyric idea and don’t even consider melody until the lyric is written. Others vibe out on a melody and let nonsense words or syllables fall out until they turn into actual words. There are countless other ways. Let’s look at a few of my favorites.
I’m going to share with you 4 ways to find the inspiration you need to write your next song, even if you don’t have any ideas.
Make inspiration, don’t wait for it. Stop the scroll! Yup, you heard me. Turn off the smart phones, TV and laptop. Plan 30 minutes, an hour, 3 hours - whatever you’ve got. Discipline yourself to stay focused on creativity for that amount of time. What happens in this time doesn’t have to be active writing. In fact, it’s probably not going to be. The flip side of turning off all distractions is that you sit in a quiet room with an empty head waiting for brilliance to strike. If that’s your strategy, you’ll likely be waiting or a long time. Then, you’ll just get frustrated coming up with nothing.
In the time you’ve set aside for yourself, do things that inspire creativity. You might strum your guitar, or brain dump into a journal. Perhaps you already have a lyrical hook burning a hole in your brain. So, maybe you take 30 minutes to write as many rhyming couplets as you can think of for that hook.
If you do any of these things during your distraction-free creative time, then that would be a good day’s work. You’re teasing out inspiration. The more you set aside quiet time for creative play, the more often inspiration will appear.
Read. Let’s be honest, there are no new ideas. We’re all subconsciously “borrowing” from everything we’ve ever heard or experienced and putting our own spin on it. We need input in order to have output. A former publisher of mine used to tell me, “You can’t write if you don’t read.”
Tom Douglas (“The House that Built Me,” “Little Rock”) told me that he reads the news, the Bible and a piece of fiction every day as part of his daily writing process.
Hey, if it’s good enough for Tom Douglas, it’s good enough for me.
Dare to suck. This might be the most important step. It took me years to feel comfortable opening up to my co-writers with ideas or lines that weren’t quite perfect. Even now when I write by myself, I have trouble letting everything flow out without major self-editing. At this point in the writing process, it’s just a big ol’ brainstorm. And here’s the thing about brainstorming: there is no such thing as a bad idea. When you say (or write down) everything that’s on your mind during brainstorming, one of three things will happen:
Ideas build upon each other. Whatever you say will likely spark a new idea in yourself or your co-writer.
Sometimes, you just need to get the mental cobwebs out in order to get to the good stuff.
You’ll solve your problem and finish your song.
I can’t promise you a hit song, or even a cut, but I can promise you the sooner you dare to suck, the better writer you’ll be.
Quit. Sometimes a song just won’t behave. The momentum dies, you’re frustrated and the meter or rhyme isn’t feeling quite right. Don’t force anything. Just quit! Not for good — for a few hours or maybe for the day. Go grab lunch. Take a walk. Movement is a great way to get yourself unstuck.
Sometimes we’re just too close to the idea to see how the story should go. When your brain is fried, pushing through will likely just make you more frustrated and you won’t get any further. Or worse, you’ll start phoning it in just to make the line rhyme or the phrase fit. Give your brain the mental break it needs and come back fresh. You’ll likely see the problem and be able to fix it quickly when you revisit the song.
Every writer finds inspiration a little bit differently, and often no one finds it the same way twice. Do you have any tried and true ways of finding inspiration to write and teasing out new ideas? Let me know in the comments. I want to hear them!
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How to Make Friends as an Adult
A few weeks ago, I received some DM’s during my Living with Landyn Instagram takeover about how I cultivated community for myself as an adult. Some people moved to new towns, some were in career transitions. Even for seasoned networkers on Music Row, let’s face it: making authentic friends as an adult can be difficult. Here are a few thoughts on what helped me.
I was newly divorced and super lonely. I suddenly found myself with half of my friend group — and most of them were married and had young children. Even though we were in our late twenties/early thirties at the time, our lifestyles were very different.
It also turns out that when you get divorced, you go from a double income family to a single income real quick. At that time, I was searching for my next publishing deal and working a “civilian job,” as I like to call it, so chasing my dreams became even more dire. Life literally forced me to make one of two choices: curl up in a ball and shrivel into darkness (okay, that sounds dramatic, but it felt pretty dramatic at the time) OR put one foot in front of the other and try some new things. For some reason (the likely reason being therapy), I chose the latter.
Networking and meeting new people is the name of the game in the Music Business, so I had some familiarity with the process. Still, it’s hard making new friends and finding community as an adult.
A few weeks ago, I received DM’s on Instagram during my Living with Landyn takeover about some things I mentioned on stories. During a portion of the takeover, I shared about hobbies, books and counseling/coaching that has been truly transformative for me. I mentioned that I joined the Nashville Rowing Club for a short a while. I talked about discovering The Estuary, a spiritual healing center where I continue to take classes that have helped me grow and transform in ways I never thought possible. Some folks wanted to know how I got so involved in my community; how do I find people and organizations that really light me up? Some people said they had recently moved to a new town and were having trouble plugging in and finding good resources.
Whew. I’ve been in your shoes. But I wasn’t exactly sure how to answer these questions at first. “Just get out there and go for it,” seems like an annoying thing to say. If you’re having trouble plugging in, it’s probably because you already are “getting out there” and aren’t finding what you want. As a toddler mom, I’m reminded that we used to make friends by literally walking up to each other and asking, “Will you be my friend?” It just doesn’t feel that simple now that we’re adults.
Giving advice can be tricky business. I can, however, share my experience and maybe something will resonate. So, I thought about what was it that was so impactful to me about how I built community around myself that has been so life-changing. A few things dawned on me and I will share them with you.
Here are 4 ways to make friends as an adult:
Get curious. When I found myself in a huge life transition, I chose to get curious. There was nothing and no one holding me back. I got to make all the rules in my life with complete autonomy. So, I got curious about how I could shake up my old routines, what inspires me and what I’d always wanted to try but never felt like I had the time or gave myself the chance. If you’re in a new town or going through a major transition like I was, now is the time! Your life just blew up and a new thing is happening! Aren’t you curious to see what it could be?
Keep an open mind. Here’s what I mean: if I try something (e.g. a class, a meet up group, a new sport) and it turns out not to be a good fit, I don’t see the experience as a waste of time. Instead, I feel grateful that I checked it off my list and can move on from it quickly to the next thing. Knowing what I don’t like is just as important as knowing what I do. It’s like when we were kids and our parents forced us to take “at least one bite” of a new food. How do you know if you like it or not until you try it? As long as an idea matches up with my values, I’m here for it. At least once. Where do I sign up?
Find the exit. This is the most important thing of all: I have learned to feel in my body when something is not meant for me. I get it wrong sometimes, but I’m a lot better at it than I used to be. If I feel dread about going somewhere or doing something, I know that I shouldn’t have committed to it or enrolled in the opportunity. The next time I get an idea or an invitation and it makes me feel that way, I will politely decline. That invitation was apparently not meant for me because it didn’t bring me joy.
On the other hand, if I feel a super high vibration of frantic energy or urgency when I see an opportunity to connect, I also know that’s not meant for me. I am likely wanting to impress someone, people-please or get into perfectionist mode when I feel that way. A who’s who event is likely not for me. I know myself. I will be too temped to hustle. I’ll be concerned about people-pleasing, fitting in and attempting to be “perfect” in that environment and it will wear me out. I stick to things that feel truly aligned for me. I have learned how to tune into my body for that because my mind will deceive me real quick.
Again, I get it wrong sometimes, but tuning into my body has been one of my best guides in life. I only wish I knew how to trust it sooner. I usually feel things in my gut, but some people feel a tightening in their throats or the hairs stand up on their arms. Pay attention. Where do you feel your body guiding you?
Make yourself useful. Sometimes, instead of asking “Where do I belong?” I asked, “How can I help?” Being of service to others is one of the best ways I know of to find connection and change a life — quite possibly your own. Around the same time I was going through that big life transition, I participated in my very first Habitat for Humanity build. I ended up meeting so many wonderful people across several generations and nationalities. I’ve gone back to build annually for nearly ten years. I make true connections and I learn a few new skills (no previous experience required). If you need someone to hang insulation, calk or install windows in your home, I’m your girl. 😉
“Being of service to others is one of the best ways I know of to find connection and change a life — quite possibly your own.”
Welp, that’s about all I know. This journey of building community is trial and error. There are no quick fixes in that list; rather, a few ideas that will maybe resonate with you about how to feel your way through a new stage in your life.
I’ll list the groups I mentioned in my Living with Landyn Instagram takeover below. Some of the things I’m involved in offer virtual events and classes, so even if you’re not in Nashville, you can participate. Obviously, don’t feel any pressure to do the things I love. These are some of the things that light me up. You will find what lights you up. When you do, will you please let me know in comments? I would LOVE to know how you’re connecting in your communities!
A few of my favorite things…
The Estuary — A non-profit spiritual healing center located in Nashville. They have an office in Nashville for local in-person offerings. They also offer virtual classes, workshops and counseling for integrative therapy.
The Liberated Eater — An online wellness community to help you trust your body, led by intuitive eating coach, Cindy Landham. Cindy is absolutely fabulous at what she does. Her business is head quartered in Murfreesboro, TN, but she reaches people worldwide through her online workshop and virtual coaching.
The Nashville Rowing Club — Beginner lessons and Master Rowing Club. Hey, if you’re in Nashville or ever find yourself visiting, check ‘em out!
Jazzercise — Not your grandma’s workout! For real. Mary Helen is the JAM here in Nashville. Her classes are mostly women of all ages, but several husbands come on the reg. There are franchises worldwide and probably in your area. If you want to experience the magic of Mary Helen, but you’re not local to Nashville or don’t want to come in-person, maybe Mary Helen will let you take the virtual option through her franchise? It’s worth checking out.
Habitat for Humanity — A nonprofit organization that helps people in your community and around the world build or improve a place they can call home.
NSAI (Nashville Songwriters Association International) — NSAI is the first stop for aspiring and professional songwriters. I served two terms on the board of directors for this organization. (Oh! That reminds me: Board service. That’s another great way to connect in your community!) NSAI is a fantastic way to get connected for songwriters of all levels and, really, for anyone new to town wanting to get into the music business. The organization offers a variety of tools, coaching, and networking, plus a strong presence on The Hill fighting for creator’s intellectual property rights.
Have you ever felt guilty about eating something? I'm talking, really guilty. Maybe it even sent you down a shame spiral. Do you ever sneak food, or avoid food all together because it's just too hard to control? After you over indulge, do you exercise harder than usual to balance the "damage" you've done? Do you vow to "do better" tomorrow (or when Monday rolls around)? Have you lost and re-gained the same pounds over and over again?
Then, listen up! Most American adults have experienced these thoughts and feelings. I know I sure have. If this sounds like you, too, then this episode is for you.
Before you set your New Years Resolutions around your health for this coming year, please listen to this episode of Happiest Hour with my guest, Liberated Eating Coach, Cindy Landham.