Whitney's favorite: Sour cream cookies

Whitney is a favorite friend - she is witty, fun and intelligent. We started out as friends through working on Northwestern's yearbook. We were also sorority sisters. After college, we met regularly for dinner and movie dates. Our lives followed somewhat similar paths...we both work in Chicago's nonprofit sectors (she has the most awesome job - managing the temporary and traveling exhibits for The Field Museum, criss-crossing the globe) and our weddings were within a month of each other. We're fellow Libras (she's 3 days older, which I don't let her forget) and members of Fourth Presbyterian Church. And one night in spring 2007, we met for tapas. "I have news," I started to say, to let her know I was pregnant. "So do I," she said.

That night, realizing we were due within days of each other, we decided to share childcare. Our lives have been even more intertwined ever since. Her son Nate and Jack are like brothers. Friday when I was leaving for work, I got big hugs and kisses from our sweet boys and that reminded how happy I am to have my family so close to Whitney's.

Sour Cream Cookies
1/2 c. shortening
1 1/2 c. brown sugar
2 eggs
1 c. sour cream
1/2 tsp. vanilla
2 3/4 c. flour
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. baking soda

Mix and bake @ 375 degrees for 10 minutes

Icing
1/4 c. butter
1 c. powdered sugar
1/2 tsp. vanilla
1-2 tsp. hot water

Mix and ice cookies when cool. Add sprinkles, raisins, cinnamon, or other fun toppings as desired. This part is good to do with kids!