Open House

The TC family decided to try a new adventure...a furniture store!  Dan's parents, brothers, and us joined forces to buy a local store.  We've been busy updating computers, increasing inventory, and learning the ropes in this new venture.  Today we had a ribbon cutting and grand re-opening.  I don't have a copy of the picture, but I have something better!  We shared coffee, cider, and cookies with our guests today, and I have to share some recipes with you!  I made my aunt's Cowboy Cookies for this event, and they are so chewy and delicious.  Definitely a favorite!

Cowboy Cookies
2 c. sugar                              2 tsp. baking powder
2 c. brown sugar                   2 tsp. baking soda
2 c. shortening (or butter)      2 tsp. salt
4 eggs                                   4 c. oatmeal
2 tsp. vanilla                          2 c. chocolate chips
4 c. flour

Cream sugar & shortening. Combine eggs & vanilla. Add to mixture.  Combine flour, baking powder, soda & salt.  Add to batter.  Mix in oatmeal & chocolate chips.  Bake at 350 degrees for 10-11 minutes.  Don't over bake--they'll get hard.
*Makes 5-6 dozen.
*There is a lot of batter.  My KitchenAid was very full.
*I've thought about substituting butterscotch or peanut butter chips in, also.

And, if you want something great to drink with this, try this apple cider recipe!  It was perfect for today's cold, blustery weather!

Apple Cider
1 tsp. whole allspice
2 tsp. whole cloves
Dash of ground nutmeg
3 inches cinnamon stick
Tie all ingredients in cheezcloth, put in a tea ball, or in the top filter of a percolator. Use with 2 quarts of pre-made apple cider (not apple juice!).  Simmer as long as you like--the longer it simmers, the stronger it gets!