AG+G Weekly Wrap-Up #5

Cookie Recipe, Oprah, + Permission to Pause

You have persmission to PAUSE

Finding Substack + launching this page has been the unexpected joy of 2023 for me. Thank you to each and every one of you, who has taken time to read it. Your support and encouragement has meant the world to me.

As 2023 draws to a close, I am giving myself + you permission to pause. Have no fear, I’m not going anywhere. In fact, I’m planning to use this time to dream, learn, and plan for the future of this space. I’m excited for what’s to come in 2024 for Aging with Grace + Grit. I’ll be showing up in your inbox again after the Holidays.

Reflection on the Old Year + Direction for the New Year(s)

Are you looking for something a little different than a New Years Resolution or a Word of the Year? How about thinking in terms of decades rather than years?

Oprah is turning 70 + looking better than ever!

When I was in college, I remember gathering in the common room of my dorm at 4pm each weekday to watch the new Oprah Winfrey Show. Later, as a young stay at home Mom, I looked forward to my 4pm meeting with Oprah. She gave me connection, guidance, and a sense of solidarity and belonging. When her show was ending, I remember wondering who would replace her? Turns out it was the whole internet and social media, that’s who replaced her. Over the years, she’s still been around and present. Recently, she’s been the center of attention due to her weight loss. True to her character she’s shining a light on shame + weight loss + new medications. Good for you Oprah, and thank you for leading the way with inclusive thinking.

Read the People Magazine article here!

My Favorite Subscriber Article on Substack

Check out

Patricia Cusack

at Positive Ageing Matters.

I loved her thoughts in this article:

Why I was a Reader on Substack before I became a Writer Here

RECIPE: Pennsylvania Dutch Sugar Cookies

Because who doesn’t love a good cookie recipe? A few years ago we hosted a group of friends for a Christmas party at our home. My friend arrived with a platter of what she called her “Signature Christmas Cookie.” She said, it’s her go-to cookie recipe. One that’s a little unique and one that she is “known” for. The idea of a Signature Christmas Cookie recipe fascinated me. I looked through my recipes and decided this recipe for Pennsylvania Dutch Sugar Cookies was mine. I make them every year at Christmas time and my whole family loves them. This recipe was handed down from my Great Grandmother to my Grandmother to my Mom to me. (The three of them were born and raised in Pennsylvania.) What makes it unique is that the cookies are almost cake like. They are nothing like a traditional sugar cookie. (In fact, looking online, I see similar recipes labeled as Pennsylvania Dutch Sugar Cakes or Amish Sugar Cakes.) The addition of sour cream cuts the sweetness and results in a perfectly delicious taste. Let me know if you make them!

Pennsylvania Dutch Sugar Cookies

by Kathi Roach

3/4 C Shortening

2 C Sugar

3 Eggs

1 C Sour Cream

4 C Flour

1 tsp Baking Soda

1 tsp Baking Powder

1 tsp Salt

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Sift Flour, Baking Soda, Baking Powder + Salt together + set aside. (The last few times I’ve made these I don’t sift anything…just dump them in a bowl together + stir the dry mixture with a spoon.)

Cream Shortening + Sugar

Add Eggs 1 at a time mixing thoroughly

Add Sour Cream alternately with Flour mixture.

Drop by Tablespoonfuls onto greased + floured cookie sheets.

Sprinkle lightly with sugar + sprinkles.

Bake at 350 degrees for 10 min or until golden.

Makes 4 dozen cookies.

Book Recommendations

Usually in this space I take time to recommend a book with a middle aged main character. This time, I’m posting links to My Favorite Fiction Books of 2023 and My Favorite Memoirs of 2023. In case you missed it, and are looking for a good book. Here ya go!!

FICTION:

MEMOIRS:

Have a lovely holiday season!! I’ll be back soon with all of your Aging With Grace + Grit favorite features and sprinkling in some new additions along the way. I look forward to catching up with you then. Have a restful + peaceful Holiday.

Xo,

Kathi

P.S. If you’ve enjoyed reading, send some hearts (click the ❤️), comment 💬 or restack🔁 on Substack or share on social media. Thanks so much!! Xo