Boston Strong

I wrote this a week following the 15 April attack. My sentiments are still the same and have a greater love of this city.  Below are pictures of the memorial as well as the cookies!  

By definition strength is physical power, emotional toughness, support, resistance and among many others, force.  This past week Boston was thrust into terror by the sheer force of two men whose motive is unknown.  Despite not being a native, I would consider myself a Bostonian having lived here for six years and through it all have never known this city to be weak.  From our presence in the sports community to the support that was proven over the last five days, we will not, we did not fall.  We were strong, we were Boston Strong!  As we move forward and pay tribute to those who were overcome by this force, let us remember to reach out to those we know are struggling to be heard, as it may have been in this young man's case.  We must also have the strength to hear without judgment the reason for this act of terror.  It is not something we will want to hear and ultimately accept, but with strength comes the need for compassion and understanding. 

In trying to figure what to make for this I tried to do some research to make what the four individuals that lost their lives during this tragedy would enjoy.  I had no luck; instead I’ve made cookies which for me means life and health.  It is sweet, savory, and full of pieces that makes the next bite more enjoyable than the last, like life.  We have no idea where this life will lead us, but we can only pray that our next steps will be ones of power, toughness, resistance and have a positive force enough to firmly and proudly say we are Boston Strong!

Silly Saucy Chef’s Good Oatmeal Cookies

By: Grandma Walling adapted my AnnMarie

1C Margarine

½ C Brown Sugar

1 ½ C White Sugar

2 tblsp molasses

2 eggs

2 C wheat flour

1 tblsp vanilla

1 tsp soda

1 tsp salt

2 C Oatmeal

1 ½ C Chocolate Chips

½ C Dried, Sweetened Cranberries

½ C Pumpkin Seeds

1 C Walnuts

½ C dried pitted Dates

Cream wet ingredients, then add dry ingredients one at a time until completely mixed.  Bake for 10 minutes at 350 Degrees F.