Kelly Illick is a published author of many articles featuring fresh seasonal recipes from the north woods of Wisconsin for every-day healthy eating and occasional indulgences. Kelly loves using locally grown fruits and vegetables. She and her husband Mark greatly enjoy their innkeeper lives at Second Wind. Watch for posting of her shared recipes.

One of my favorite things about Wisconsin winters is the anticipation of getting snowed in. There is nothing better. In winters past we’ve even set the alarm a little early to listen to our local radio station with the latest cancellations from all over our region just a hoping that school has been canceled and we can stay snuggled in our beds. Unfortunately the internet has ended the fun out of that old tradition. Now we just go on-line, and usually the night before. But fortunately we still get these lazy daisy days, though in our option not often enough. Now that our family is in the inn keeping business it’s even more enjoyable when guests get snowed in with us here at Second Wind.
It’s these wonderful winter respites that bring out the baker in me. And this is one of my favorite recipes to make on those exhilarating winter days when the world comes to a quiet white hush. It is also one of the reasons that daddy always has to pick up a couple gallons of milk as he’s heading home and the snow is a coming. These Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies are also all time favorite after an afternoon of snow man making.
Funny thing though, this recipe which is an all time family favorite had a nose turned up to them recently because it had oatmeal in it. That’s such a funny thought to me because my fam on the other hand thinks chocolate chip cookies without oatmeal are for wimps. This is truly a matter of perspective. So if you happen to be not fond of oatmeal, this may not be the recipe for you. But then again, try them, you might like them. This is a serious batch of cookies so keep in mind it’s easy to cut this recipe in half or better yet, roll half the batter in cellophane, double bag and stick in the freezer for a quick snack on another day. Adding a cup or two of craisins gives it a nice taste too.

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

3 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons salt
2 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup butter
1 cup shortening
1 ½ cup brown sugar
1 ½ cup granulated sugar
4 unbeaten eggs
4 cups quick oatmeal
4 cups semisweet chocolate chips
Sift flour with salt and soda. Cream shortening and sugars; beat in eggs until light and fluffy. Stir in sifted dry ingredients and oatmeal. Lastly add chocolate chips. Drop cookie batter by teaspoonfuls onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake in preheated oven at 350° for about 10 to 12 minutes; cool on racks.