Chewy Oatmeal Cookies

Today's cookies help me accomplish two different goals.

1.) Find a great CHEWY oatmeal cookie recipe for husband. Oatmeal cookies are his favorite, particularly the chewy kind. I've tried out several recipes in the past but they haven't met with success.

2.) Deliver baked goods to our new neighbors. We live in a good Southern neighborhood, which means you are honorably obliged to introduce yourself to new neighbors, and most often it is done with baked goods and  phone numbers in hand.

This is how we were greeted almost four years ago when we moved in. My how time flies. Out of the seven places we've lived in 12 years time, this place is our favorite and the easiest to really feel at home with great friends and neighbors. It's the longest we've lived anywhere. And honestly I'm quite happy about it. I think southern living suits me.

I discovered a blog that has quickly become a favorite. Two Peas & Their Pod. The recipes look fantabulous! And from the success I've had with these oatmeal cookies I'll definitely be back to try out other recipes.

Chinese Hot Pot

What's the best way to celebrate Chinese New Year?? 

      

1. Spend it with good friends who lived in China and embraced the local foods like you. And if you don't have that, close family and friends that embrace adventure.

2. Find a great international or Asian grocery store so that you can purchase the right food.

*This is probably one of the key points to send your celebration over the top.

3. Dress in red and/or wear new clothes. Red scares away the evil spirits. Wearing something new symbolizes having more than enough for the new year. Doing this will start your year off right. But don't wash your hair and don't clean your house that day. Washing your hair will wash away your good luck. Cleaning your house will also clean away all your good luck.

And when you have all three what better way to celebrate than with a hot pot!

First off a trip to the international market is in order. As you walk in that uncomfortable-not-sure-what-the-smell-is-but-it's-definitely-not-Krogers smell hits you in the face, confirming that you have indeed found the right place.  

This place is so authentic it even had chicken feet. (We declined from purchasing them.)