Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Many times the Oatmeal Raisin cookie is overlooked. Some may think because it has raisins that it does not taste right. Others may not like the oatmeal and prefer to make chocolate chip cookies instead. Although chocolate chip cookies may be good, they are overused and overmade. The Oatmeal Raisin cookie is unique and a rarity in our household (usually I'm the one who has to make them.)As I look at all the ingredients involved in the cookie making process, the one that stand out to me is the salt. Without the salt, the oatmeal raisin cookie seems bland. Although you can't tell from looking at the dough, the salt makes all the difference.

This got me to thinking about the things that make all the differnce in our lives. I was recently reading a book titled Just Listen by Sarah Dessen. I won't go into all the details because you should read it yourself, but it was extremely thought provoking for me. For me the message was telling the truth and just listening to others and yourself. Many times, it is hard to be truthful to ourselves. Although things we think and do may not be outright lies, but is it really being truthful when we are holding back? The answer became clear: No. There have been many times in my life where I have not stopped to listen to myself or to others around me. I was preoccupied with what everyone thought. I was missing some of the "ingredients" and overlooked the qualities I already possessed.

I have given real thought to this and realized that I need to be more truthful, whether it is with myself or with others and just listen. Like oatmeal raisin cookies, people are unique and always have something to offer (even if it is raisins). We often overlook the goodness in our lives and focus on the things that will please other people or the negative. Making others happy is important, but I realized I have to be happy too! Anyway, I guess what I'm trying to say is enjoy the rare things in life. Take a chance and make Oatmeal Raisin Cookies. They want to feel included too :)

You Can Eat Cookies While You Train, Right?

After some contemplation and realzing I need a real kick in the pants to get back on the exercise bandwagon, I have decided that I am going to run a half marathon...and eventually a 26.2 miler! Thanks to my friend Carlie, I got to some serious thinkin!And thanks to her for running an actual marathon, because that inspires me that I can do whatever I put my mind to. This is a crazy thought as I know I am not the outdoorsy running type of gal. I would much rather stick to my elliptical and treadmill at the gym, but as I have thought about it, the more reasons there are to do a marathon.

1. Oregon is a great place to train. The altitude (unlike Utah) will not kill you here. It's great to know that I will not look idioic breathing when I run.
2. Being a spectator in a marathon was a great intro into all the types of people that run. If a large hefty man can run a marathon, or if a group of moms can run one, I certainly can train and work to accomplish running one.
3. A strict regiment of exercise and eating right will really help me look good. I mean I know I look good...but I mean I can look REALLY good and toned and pull off the runners look which is awesome. Also, going back to school looking fantastic is also a bonus. :)
4. Marathons show who a person really is and what we are made of. I am ready to show the perseverance and determination that is truly in me. I have a competitive spirit and will stop at nothing to reach my goal.
5. The experience!! I mean there are only a select few who can say that they have run a marathon.
6. It's time for a challenge, and I'm ready for it.



Soooooo....here's for training and getting in shape! The terrible downside is eating! For those who know me well, I love to eat!! I mean it's seriously one of my favorite things to do. The running will help, but there are just some cravings that can't be broken, so feel free to make me cookies and bring them to me! No bake ones would be appreciated. Just kidding, but they will still be a part of my habits if I had you worried there for a minute. So, now currently I have to start running outside for more than just a mile, but it's a sacrifice I will gladly make. I can't wait to see the end results and finish!

When I was have doubts about actually following through with the marathon, my friend's mom had us watch this video about how life was like a marathon. It really got me thinking about how there are many tests and trials in this life to test our faith and endurance. There are people cheering us on and mentors we are able to learn from. If we persevere to the finish line, we know that we have trained and worked hard for our goal. Pretty or not, it was accomplished. And that's what really matters.






See you next time,
The Outdoorsy Running Gal or No Bake Cookie Lady