Just So's and That'll Do's

The other day I had lunch with one of my dear friends. She was sharing with me her theory that there are two kinds of people - just so's and that'll do's. The Just So's like everything just so - I think Flylady would call them perfectionists. On the other hand, the That'll Do's will settle for good enough and not stress about perfection. Of course, this is a generalization, but there's a lot of truth in it.

Later on, in an email, she said that That'll Do's probably live longer because of less stress, unless they die under an avalanche of some kind in their home!

I think she's been peeking in my windows!

Tribute to a Lovely Lady

A wonderful woman we've had the joy of knowing for the past 30 years or so passed away Sunday from pancreatic cancer. She will leave a huge hole in the hearts of her family and friends. She was always friendly, always upbeat, always ready with a smile and a warm greeting.

Along with my memories of time spent with her is this recipe for oatmeal cookies. One of my theories of cooking is that if you want to be a good cook, find a good recipe. This recipe is a keeper. I've used it for years and the results are always delicious.

Here is the original recipe:

Refrigerator Oatmeal Cookies

Cream together:

1 cup shortening
1 cup white sugar
1 cup brown sugar

Add:

2 eggs
1/2 tsp vanilla

Then add:

3 cups oatmeal
1 1/2 cups lfour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt

Shape into a roll and chill. The dough is very stiff. Bake on a greased cookie sheet for 10-12 minutes.

Last week, Clovis and Raquel's Father (aka Little Man's Father) used this recipe and made some variations:

Use 1/2 cup shortening and 1/2 cup butter
Use 2-3 tsps vanilla
Add 2-3 tsps cinnamon
Add about a cup of dried fruit - raisins, currants, craisins, dried apricots (chopped)
Add 1/2 to 1 cup chopped nuts.

All I can say is "WOW".

Monday I decided to try another variation:

Use 1/2 cup shortening and 1/2 cup butter
Use 2-3 tsps vanilla
Add a 12 oz bag of chocolate chips.

Again - WOW is the word!

So, farewell our friend, and thank you. You are alive in our memories.