Something to Feel Good About

In a month (ish) I am moving, and everything will change.  [My home, my friends, my plans, my life.]  There will be fabulous new things, and disappointment for things lost.  But it will be fantastic, and lovely.  We will explore new places and learn new things.

Every day, I need something to feel good about.  It keeps me going; makes me laugh and grin and my heart soar.  [My girls, my home, my family, my friends, my plans, my food.] 

In celebration of feeling good about all of these things today, and the changes to come, here's a cookie to feel good about.  (I promise.  Eat as many as you like and feel good about doing it.)

Oatmeal - Flaxseed Meal Cookies

Preheat oven to 350*.

On a cookie sheet, sprinkle 1/3 cup walnuts.  Place in oven to roast for 7-10 minutes, or until they smell good.  Set aside.

Microwave in bowl covered tightly with plastic wrap on high for 30 seconds, then set aside (still covered):

• 1 tablespoon water
• 1/3 cup craisins or dried cherries (cherries preferred)

In a mixing bowl, cream:

• 1/4 cup softened butter

Add and beat until combined:

• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/8 teaspoon salt

Add and mix:

• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

Add and mix:

• 3/4 cup flour

Add and mix:

• 3/4 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 cup wheat germ
• 1/4 cup flaxseed meal

Stir in with spatula:

• prepared roasted walnuts
• prepared dried fruit (dump them onto a cloth or napkin first to remove excess water, but beware: craisins and cherries will both stain red)
• 2 ounces chopped dark chocolate (optional)

Drop large teaspoons on an ungreased cookie sheet and bake for 9-10 minutes. 
Makes about 18-24 cookies.  (Unless you like the dough as much as my girls and I.... we usually get a dozen baked cookies.  If we're lucky.)
These cookies are best warm, but good all the time.