Wednesday, May 4, 2011

Oatmeal Raisin and Macaroon Cookies PLUS Lagniappe from My Daughter, Lauren

This is my oldest homegirl, Lauren.  She can't stand the term, "homegirl".  It is what it is.  She will be a senior in high school next year.  So, the mommy ride and being in any kind of control is almost over.   Poor Kaitlin...to say I am proud of her is so lame, because I am so much more than proud of her.  What do you say to a child who is worried because her "Trig" grade DROPPED to a 99?  She always does the right thing...she's a better person than I am.  As I type this, tears stream down my face.  If she even read this blog, I would be in so much trouble for typing all of this but what I am about to share with you...well let's just say I would have to sleep with one eye open as long as she has a key to our house.  I found this poem, she wrote for her Honors English III class and sheesh, she amazes me with everything she does.

I Am From

I am from Irish and French descent.
From a city that surely celebrates Lent;
a place where strangers are friends.
I am from the city where the rules are meant to bend.

I am from a tiny house and sharing a room.
From swimming all night and starring at the moon;
from an award winning lawn and garden
from talking back followed by, "I beg your pardon?".

I am from always do your best, nothing half-ass
and groggily waking up for Mass.
From always having a huge Thanksgiving.
I am from two parents who bust their butt to make a living.

I am from living two minutes away from my cousins,
from arguments with my sister by the dozens;
but realizing I love her more than my words describe.
I am from wishing I could once again be five.

I am from homemade food with a kick;
adding a little of that and a little of this.
From dinner is always a family affair
and praying before my meal with people who care.

I am from a town that was turned upside down
knick-knacks and prized possessions were drowned.
From a city where "victim" is an insult
and if you don't make the best of your situation, it's your own fault.

I am from the Big Easy
the city that tugs at my heart,
the city that always has a reason to celebrate.
I am from the best city in the world,
I am from New Orleans.

Wow..thank you for humoring me.

These cookies were the first thing EVER, I ever made, cooked, or baked.  I was maybe around 9?

It's an old recipe from my River Roads book and sometimes, you just have to go back.


Who's with me?

1 cup shortening
1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
2 eggs, unbeaten
1-2/3 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
2 cups rolled oats (quick cooking oats work just fine)
1/2 cup raisins

Mix thoroughly the shortening, sugars, vanilla and eggs.  Sift together the flour, soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg, and add to mixture.  Fold in rolled oats and raisins.  Drop  by teaspoonfuls onto greased cookie sheet (siplat and parchment paper work, save the extra work and calories).  Bake 10 to 12 minutes at 350 degrees F.  Remove from oven, cool 3 minute son baking sheet before moving to a wire rack to cool for 10 more minutes.  Makes about 4 dozen cookies.


These cookies can be your best friend or be there to share with a best friend.  They can also just be there for you after you've finished a good cry.

14 comments:

John Roberts said...

My oldest niece is growing up too fast. A wonderful poem!

Debbie said...

Oh what a sweet post. I know how you feel Katherine...what these kids do to us! They turn me into mush!!!! Love your cookies. I remember you writing about these cookbooks that you love so much....

SusanD said...

I love.love.love. the poem! Your daughter is exceptionally bright and talented. -- The cookies look wonderful. Another recipe to try. Thank you. Blessings, SusanD

Big Dude said...

I'm always amazed at the talents kids have but often keep hidden from their parents.

The JR said...

Very nice. Your daughter is beautiful.

Those cookies look good!

David said...

Katherine, Having met Kaitlin, I can only imagine how mature and intelligent Lauren must be. You have bright and caring daughters who, despite their youth, function well in the adult world. It's not just luck... It's about a solid family and good parenting! Take Care, Big Daddy Dave

Inspired by eRecipeCards said...

Wow oh Wow... "Oh the places you'll go" comes to mind... what a future

thank you for sharing this with us

Dave

Sam Hoffer / My Carolina Kitchen said...

Katherine, you should be so proud. You and A.J. have done a wonderful job. Her poem tugs at my heart. And what a gorgeous photo of Lauren.
Sam

teresa said...

great poem, how sweet! and the cookies look wonderful.

Sweet Tea said...

Frame that sweet poem and hang it on the wall. Sooo sweet!. . .Now, I want one (or 5) of those cookies. NOW!
BTW, I posted a recipe today. You will laugh as it is a total SLACKER recipe.

Mary said...

Your daughter sounds amazing! I know you have to be so very proud of her!

The Blonde Duck said...

I miss you too!

You should enter that poem in my writing contest! :)

Do you listen to country? Listen to Homeboy by Eric Church. That's what homegirl reminds me of...

Jennifer said...

Wow that poem made my cry, I am a boob I apolgozie in advance. Great kid you raised!

Janna Renee said...

That poem gave me chills! your daughter is obviously going places!