What Shall We Bake Today?

Our next Back-to-School treat is Peanut Butter Banana Cookies!

Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter softened to room temperature

3/4 cup light brown sugar

1/2 cup creamy peanut butter

1 large egg

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 tsp salt

3/4 tsp baking soda

1/2 cup mashed banana

1/3 cup sugar for rolling

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350F degrees. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.

Mix softened butter and brown sugar together well for 2 minutes.

Add in the peanut butter, egg, vanilla, salt, baking soda, and banana. Mix well for 1-2 minutes.

Slowly add the flour and combine well, do not over mix.

Using a cookie scooper – scoop batter and roll dough into a ball, roll each cookie ball in the sugar, and place on a lined cookie sheet. Batter should make 24 cookies.

Use a fork to flatten the cookies, bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes until a light golden brown.

Remove from the oven and let cool for 3-4 minutes. 

ENJOY!

Weird Wednesdays: Abandoned Mansions: Mudhouse Mansion

The origins of Mudhouse Mansion trace back to the 19th century, deriving its unique name from the Mudhouse family, the estate’s earliest recorded occupants. Known also as “Hartman Place,” this grand residence epitomized the Gothic Revival architectural style prevalent during that era. Despite the passage of ownership and decay over time, the mansion’s allure persisted until its eventual demolition in 2015 due to structural concerns. Yet, the legends and the aura of mystery surrounding the mansion continue to thrive, fueled by tales of the paranormal.

Mudhouse Mansion Haunted?

Mudhouse Mansion has a dark reputation not only among locals but also among paranormal enthusiasts nationwide. It is without a doubt, one of the most haunted places in Ohio! There are many local tales and legends as to the origin of the haunting in Mudhouse Mansion. One legend says that a government official lived there after the Civil War and kept slaves. It is told that he locked the slaves in one of the outbuildings every night and generally treated them poorly.

One night a slave dug his way out, entered the house and slaughtered the official and his entire family. It is the spirits of these people which haunt the house. However, according to some it is another more recent family that got murdered in the house.

According to local legend, there was a man who actually bought the house in 1892 and he moved in with his wife and their three children. Neighbors never saw them after they entered the house and they thought it very weird that the family would spend all their time indoors. One neighbor went out to the house to investigate and all he could see was the figure of a woman dressed in white, standing on the second-floor window. The figure was just standing there and staring at her.

The following day the neighbor checked again and saw the figure again, standing on the same position. She checked for 10 days and would see the same figure. On the tenth day she called the police and when they came to investigate, they were met by a terrible sight. All the 5 family members were hanging lifeless dressed in white night gowns. The figure which the neighbor had seen was the mother and she was not standing at the window. She had actually been hanging there for several days/weeks.

Mudhouse Mansion is said to be the home of the original “Bloody Mary”. If you say her name three or five times while in front of the mirror, she will appear. Children in town have even called Mudhouse the House of Mary. According to traditional folklore, all her children were killed either by her or her husband.

A woman named Colleen once explored Mudhouse in 2001 and she recalls hearing a whole group of people moving around the third floor of the house. They went upstairs to talk to the people they assumed were causing all the noise but they found the entire floor and the rest of the house completely deserted. There was no one else there but them. The mansion’s neighbors reported hearing shrieks and groans coming from the empty mansion when it lay abandoned.

History

Mudhouse Mansion was built sometime between 1840 and 1850. Christian and Eleanor Rugh purchased the property, where Mudhouse Mansion now stands, from Henry Byler and Abraham Kagy. The property was then sold to Henry and Martha Hartman in 1919. When Henry died, the property was inherited by his daughter Lulu. Her descendants still own the land today and locals have also labeled the mansion as “Hartman Place”.

No one has lived in the home since 1930 although transients and a group of hippies in the 1960’s did call it their home for a short period of time. The grand structure has been damaged by vandalism and fire.

Note: Mudhouse Manor was demolished September 21, 2015.

South Dakota State Flower: Pasque

Fun Fact

The Pasque flower is used in treating eye diseases like cataracts.

The Pasque flower was approved as the official floral emblem of South Dakota in 1903. The first flower to show its blossoms to settling Europeans in spring, it became the subject of Indian songs and legends.

A member of the Buttercup family, the tundra-loving Pasque is a small solitary bell-shaped flower with gorgeous blue to reddish purple colors, bearing plumed seed heads and golden stamens. It has handsome seed clusters that look like feathery, smoky gray pompoms. The blooming period of Pasque is from April to May, lasting for two weeks. As soon as it blooms, it signals the start of spring to South Dakotans and lights up the landscape from Mount Vernon to Sioux City.

Pasque is a low perennial, rarely exceeding 6 inches in height, and its furry leaf clusters appear rapidly after winter snow disappears. Large, flashy lavender flowers open soon thereafter consisting of 5-8 petal-like sepals, elongated clusters of white to purple, and a ring of numerous yellow stamens. The petal color ranges from deep violet to white. The long silky hairs that cover the finely divided, lobed leaves give the plant a sparkly silver sheen. These leaves continuously expand after the flowers open. The flowering stalk or stem is densely covered with silky hairs, helping to insulate it.

Pasque, all parts of which are poisonous, grows wild throughout the state, plus is distributed from the northwestern U.S. to northern Alaska. The hardy plant is best adapted to cool, moist climates and rarely succeeds in warm dry areas.

Unsolved Mysteries: The Sodder Children

On the night before Christmas in 1945 in Fayetteville, West Virginia, George and Jennie Sodder were asleep with nine of their children when a fire started in the house around 1:00 in the morning. George, Jennie, and four of their children managed to escape. The remaining children: 14-year-old Maurice, 12-year-old Martha, 9-year-old Louis, 8-year-old Jennie, and 5-year-old Betty still remained in the house. Between the five of them, they shared two bedrooms located upstairs.

George broke back into the house to save the rest of the children but the staircase was on fire. When he went outside to retrieve his ladder, it was missing from its normal spot. Plus, both of his coal trucks, which he was going to use to stand on top of, were strangely not starting. Marion, one of the children who escaped the fire, ran to a neighbor’s house to phone the fire department but the operator didn’t pick up. When another neighbor called, the operator failed to pick up the phone again. That same neighbor actually drove to town and found the fire chief in person, FJ Morris, and told him about the fire. However, even though the fire station was located a mere 2.5 miles away from the house, the firefighters didn’t reach the Sodder home until 8 a.m., seven hours after the fire began. When they got there, the house was literally burnt to ash.

Authorities sifted through the ash to try and find the remains of the missing 5 children but nothing was found and they were presumed dead due to the fire. Morris suggested that the fire was so hot that it literally cremated the children’s bodies—including their bones. While that theory sounds reasonable, it’s not entirely accurate because even when flesh is burned away, bones are typically left behind. Additionally, there was no smell of burning flesh reported during or after the fire.

The cause of the fire was deemed to be bad wiring and the five missing children were issued death certificates. Soon after the fire, George and Jennie began to suspect that their children were not dead but instead kidnapped and the fire was deliberately set as a diversion. In fact, George had the wiring checked earlier that fall by the power company which had deemed the wiring in safe working order. While the fire was in progress, a woman came forward and said she saw all of the five missing children peering from a passing car. Another woman who was staying at a Charleston hotel had seen the children’s photos in a newspaper and said she had seen four of the five a week after the fire. “The children were accompanied by two women and two men, all of the Italian extraction,” she said in a statement. “I tried to talk to the children in a friendly manner, but the men appeared hostile … and wouldn’t allow it.”

From the 1950s until Jennie Sodder’s death in the late 1980s, the Sodder family maintained a billboard on State Route 16, with pictures of the five vanished children and offering a reward for information. The last known surviving Sodder child, Sylvia, still doesn’t believe her siblings perished in the fire. To this day, they have never been found.

Collect Rocks Day

Filly posted a meme about a rock last month…similar to the meme below…

…which inspired me! I always thought it would be a hoot to place small, painted rocks in the stream that crosses the driveway. Heavier rains will eventually push those rocks downstream and eventually into a river. From there? who knows? Here are some rock inspirations.

Pharaoh Hound

The pharaoh hound is a medium-sized dog breed from Egypt with a long, thin build, large pointed ears, and a short, glossy coat. This breed has been used to hunt rabbits on the island of Malta for thousands of years. Some of these dogs are known to show all of their teeth in a special pharaoh hound smile, and they also have an especially unusual characteristic—they can blush when they’re excited, earning the nickname “Blushing Dog of Malta.”

Characteristics of the Pharaoh Hound

The bouncy pharaoh hound is an energetic dog breed with a playful personality, always interested in what’s going on in the household. Kids and the fun-loving pharaoh hound make great playmates, although these boisterous dogs might accidentally knock over a small child if not supervised by adults.  This sight hound (bred to hunt by sight) is used to working in packs, which means they’re especially dog-friendly and get along well with new people. Since pharaoh hounds have such a friendly temperament with humans, they’re more likely to engage a stranger in play than to guard the home front. However, they tend to bark at suspicious sounds to alert their family.  This breed has a high prey drive, so while pharaoh hounds can do well with cats when raised together, they’re likely to chase other pets like birds and small mammals.

History of the Pharaoh Hound

One of the oldest recorded dog breeds, the pharaoh hound originated in Egypt thousands of years ago. Evidence of the breed’s ancient history lives on today in beautiful works of art depicting pharaoh hounds. These sculptures and paintings found in Egyptian temples date as far back as 4400 B.C.1 

At some point in history, the pharaoh hound was brought to the Mediterranean island of Malta, possibly by the Phoenicians, where the dogs were used to hunt rabbits. The pharaoh hound has been known in Malta for more than 2,000 years, where the breed has remained virtually unchanged from its ancestors who are seen decorating Egyptian tombs. Today, the pharaoh hound is the national hound of Malta. The breed was first registered with the American Kennel Club in 1983 and is now a member of the Hound Group. 

Pharaoh Hound Care

Caring for a pharaoh hound is similar to other hound breeds, as these dogs require plenty of exercise but minimal grooming to stay happy and healthy. When it comes to training, this intelligent breed can learn new things with positive reinforcement methods but may have a stubborn streak.

Exercise

The pharaoh hound was born to run and needs appropriate outlets for this abundant energy. Provide daily running opportunities in a safely enclosed area, and include daily walks in your routine as well. Dog sports can be a great outlet for them, especially lure coursing (chasing a fake rabbit across a field). Younger dogs will need to stretch their legs more frequently (three or four times a day), but older pharaoh hounds can usually be satisfied with about 30 minutes of exercise per day.  When getting enough activity, pharaoh hounds are generally content to spend the rest of their day relaxing at home, perhaps with an impromptu play session indoors. 

Grooming

The pharaoh hound’s short, fine coat sheds very little. Truly a “wash and wear” breed, they require little brushing and infrequent bathing. A simple weekly wipe down over the body with a damp cloth is often all that is needed to keep the coat glossy. Pharaoh hounds do not typically have doggie odor, so bathe only when dirty. Clean the ears weekly with a pet-safe ear cleaner, brush the teeth daily, and trim the nails regularly.

Because the pharaoh hound’s coat is very thin, they do not tolerate cold well. It’s recommended to provide extra cold-weather care for this breed. They cannot be left outside in cold weather, and many people outfit their dogs in warm coats for winter walks. Even indoors, pharaoh hounds feel the chill of winter and the Pharaoh Hound Club of America recommends fleece jackets or even flannel pajamas when indoors in cold temperatures. These dogs also love to snuggle under a blanket with their family to keep warm. 

Training

Although highly intelligent, pharaoh hounds aren’t particularly obedient in the sense that they are independent-minded and won’t just do something because you ask. Training must be entertaining and fun. Make it a game and use positive methods with plenty of treats, toys, or playtime as rewards.  Pharaoh hounds have a high prey drive and will chase after anything they see or smell. Because of this, practice extreme caution with off-leash adventures; only allow them off leash if they have a rock-solid recall.

National Virginia Day

Virginia is a state rich in history, natural beauty, and diverse activities. From the captivating stories of Colonial Williamsburg to the breathtaking views along the Blue Ridge Parkway, there’s something for everyone. Each destination offers a unique opportunity to explore America’s past and experience its vibrant culture.

Visitors can enjoy everything from outdoor adventures in its parks to enriching tours in museums. The state’s wineries and vibrant music scenes also add a delightful flavor to any trip. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, Virginia promises memorable experiences and inspiration.

  1. Explore Colonial Williamsburg

Colonial Williamsburg offers a unique glimpse into America’s past. This living history museum features restored buildings, reenactments, and costumed interpreters. Visitors can interact with actors portraying historical figures and everyday citizens from the 18th century. Stroll through the streets and admire the colonial architecture. You can visit trade shops where blacksmiths, weavers, and carpenters showcase their skills. Don’t miss the chance to watch a military drill at the historic Capitol or the Governor’s Palace. Participate in hands-on activities like candle dipping or make your own pottery. These experiences bring history to life and are enjoyable for all ages. Kids will especially love the interactive exhibitions designed just for them.

2. Visit Luray Caverns

Luray Caverns is a majestic underground wonder located in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. With stunning formations and large chambers, this cavern is one of the most popular attractions in the area. The guided tours take you through breathtaking limestone formations created over millions of years. Marvel at the Great Stalacpipe Organ, which is an amazing musical instrument made of stalactites. Visitors can hear its haunting melodies played live during tours. The caverns’ natural beauty is simply unforgettable and makes for an incredible photo opportunity. The caverns maintain a constant temperature, making it a perfect escape during the summer heat. Each turn reveals fascinating displays of nature’s artistry. You’ll feel a sense of awe as you walk through the winding paths and see dazzling crystalline formations.

3. Tour Monticello

Visiting Monticello is a wonderful way to connect with American history. This iconic estate was home to Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States. Situated on a beautiful hillside, Monticello offers stunning views and meticulously landscaped gardens. Take a guided tour of the house to learn about Jefferson’s life and his impressive architectural designs. The tour includes visits to the innovative rooms he designed for comfort and efficiency. You’ll learn about his philosophy and vision for America. The gardens and grounds are a delight to explore. Jefferson cultivated various plants, many of which were used for food or medicinal purposes. Additionally, the heritage fruit trees and vegetable gardens give visitors a glimpse into his agricultural practices.

4. Pay Respects at Arlington National Cemetery

Arlington National Cemetery is a place of reflection and honor. This well-known cemetery bears witness to America’s military history. It’s home to thousands of graves, including those of notable figures such as John F. Kennedy and Robert E. Lee. Visitors can witness the changing of the guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This tribute is solemn and moving, showcasing the respect shown to those who served without recognition.

5. Stroll Along the Virginia Beach Boardwalk

The Virginia Beach Boardwalk is a lively oceanfront promenade perfect for relaxation and fun. Stretching three miles along the Atlantic Ocean, it’s filled with restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. Come for a leisurely stroll, bike ride, or rollerblade ride along the scenic pathway. Enjoy breathtaking ocean views and the soothing sounds of the waves. Stop by the numerous art installations and sculptures that add charm to the area. The boardwalk is a hub of activity, particularly in the summer months.

6. Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway

Driving the Blue Ridge Parkway is a breathtaking experience. Known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” this scenic route spans 469 miles, showcasing the stunning landscapes of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Fall foliage paints the parkway in vibrant colors, making it a popular destination in autumn. As you drive, stop at the various overlooks for incredible views of the valleys below. Many spots offer hiking trails that lead to hidden waterfalls and panoramic vistas. Each season reveals something new, from blooming wildflowers in spring to snow-capped peaks in winter.

7. Discover the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center

The Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center is an impressive extension of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum. Located near Dulles Airport, this museum houses several historic aircraft and space artifacts. The center features a massive hangar that showcases iconic exhibits, including the Space Shuttle Discovery. Visitors can walk around the Discovery and get an up-close look at this remarkable spacecraft. The center also displays the Enola Gay and the Concorde, among many other aircraft that tell the story of aviation history.

8. Visit Historic Jamestown

Historic Jamestown is a significant archaeological site and a must-visit for history buffs. It marks the location of the first permanent English settlement in America, established in 1607. The site includes ruins of fortifications, a church, and foundations of early settlers’ homes. As you explore, you’ll find informative exhibits showcasing the lives of the early settlers, Native Americans, and the challenges they faced. The museum features artifacts unearthed during ongoing archaeological digs, providing insight into life in the 17th century.

9. Hike in Great Falls Park

Great Falls Park is an outdoor oasis just minutes from Washington, D.C. Known for its stunning waterfalls and scenic landscape, it offers excellent opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and nature observation. The park boasts several miles of hiking trails that cater to various skill levels. Visitors can hike along the Potomac River and enjoy breathtaking views of the falls. The roar of rushing water creates a tranquil backdrop while you explore the scenic trails. The well-marked paths lead to observation points where you can take in the beauty of the cascading waters.

10. Immerse in Floyd’s Music Scene

Floyd, Virginia, is a small town known for its vibrant music scene. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, it boasts various live music venues and festivals that celebrate traditional and contemporary music. The town’s friendly atmosphere welcomes visitors to discover its musical heritage. Attend events at the Floyd Country Store, which hosts a variety of performances, from bluegrass to folk music. Local musicians often play, creating a lively ambiance. You might even find opportunities to join in a jam session!

11. Tour Mount Vernon

Mount Vernon is the historic estate of George Washington, America’s first President. This beautifully preserved property overlooks the Potomac River, offering stunning views and rich history. Visitors can explore the majestic mansion where Washington lived and worked. The guided tour includes insights into Washington’s life, his family, and his significant role in shaping the nation. The interior of the mansion showcases period furnishings and artifacts, providing a glimpse into 18th-century life.

12. Experience the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center

The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center is a fantastic destination for families and marine enthusiasts. Located near the oceanfront, the aquarium features a variety of exhibits showcasing marine life from the Chesapeake Bay and around the world. Visitors can observe everything from playful otters to majestic sea turtles. Explore interactive displays and touch tanks where you can get up close and personal with marine creatures. The center also offers educational programs and guided tours to enhance your learning experience.

13. Explore Back Bay Wildlife Refuge

Back Bay Wildlife Refuge is a beautiful coastal ecosystem perfect for nature lovers. Located near Virginia Beach, this refuge consists of salt marshes, dunes, and woodlands. It’s a sanctuary for diverse wildlife, including migratory birds and other species. Visit the visitor center to learn about the animals and plants found in the refuge. Well-maintained trails weave through the natural scenery, offering opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and photography. The calm environment enhances the beauty of the surroundings.

14. Visit the Virginia State Capitol

The Virginia State Capitol, designed by Thomas Jefferson, is an architectural gem located in Richmond. This impressive building serves as the home of Virginia’s government and features classic architectural styles. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about its rich history and significance. Inside the Capitol, you’ll find beautiful artwork, historic artifacts, and grand chambers where legislative sessions take place. The Rotunda, with its stunning dome, is a highlight of the building and provides a sense of grandeur.

15. Explore the National Mall and Monuments in D.C.

The National Mall in Washington, D.C., is an iconic destination filled with monuments and memorials. This expansive park stretches from the U.S. Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial, showcasing important pieces of American history. Visitors can walk among the monuments that honor great leaders and significant events. Key sites include the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Each monument tells a story of sacrifice, leadership, and resilience, making this area profoundly moving.

16. Discover Falling Springs Falls

Falling Springs Falls is a stunning natural waterfall located near Covington, Virginia. This beautiful fall cascades 80 feet over a limestone cliff, producing a picturesque view. It’s a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Visitors can access viewing platforms for optimal views of the falls. The surrounding area includes hiking trails that offer scenic overlooks and opportunities to explore the local flora and fauna.

17. Visit the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts

The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, located in Richmond, is a cultural haven for art enthusiasts. This incredible museum houses an extensive collection of art spanning centuries and regions, making it a must-visit destination. The artwork includes pieces from ancient Egypt to contemporary installations. Explore the diverse galleries, which showcase paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. The museum frequently hosts temporary exhibitions, so there’s always something new to discover.

18. Take a History Tour in Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg is steeped in rich history, making it an excellent destination for a historical tour. This charming town played a significant role during the Civil War. Visitors can explore battlefields, historic buildings, and museums that tell the story of the events that shaped the nation. Visit the Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park to learn about key battles fought in the area. Guides offer insightful tours that explain the strategies and significance of these conflicts.

19. Relax at the Norfolk Botanical Garden

The Norfolk Botanical Garden is a picturesque escape located near the waterfront. This expansive garden features a diverse collection of plants, flowers, and themed gardens. Visitors can wander through serene paths, enjoy the beauty of nature, and find inspiration in the horticultural displays. Take a guided tram tour to learn about the history of the gardens and the various plant species on display. Educational programs and workshops provide opportunities to engage and deepen your understanding of gardening and plant care.

20. Tour the Natural Bridge of Virginia

The Natural Bridge of Virginia is a breathtaking natural wonder that attracts visitors from far and wide. This immense limestone arch stands 215 feet tall and spans 90 feet, offering stunning views and a unique geological formation. It’s one of the most photographed landmarks in the state. Visitors can walk along the trails surrounding the bridge and explore the beautiful wooded areas. The walk offers various viewpoints, allowing for fantastic photo opportunities. You can also explore nearby attractions, including the Monacan Indian Living History Museum.

21. Explore the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge

The Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Located in Cambridge, Maryland, just a short distance from Virginia, this diverse ecosystem is home to various wildlife, including migratory birds, deer, and many aquatic species. The refuge covers over 27,000 acres of marshlands, forests, and fields. Visitors can enjoy the scenic trails and observation platforms for watching wildlife in their natural habitat. Bring binoculars for birdwatching, especially during migratory seasons when various species pass through the area.

22. Visit the American Civil War Museum

The American Civil War Museum in Richmond, Virginia, offers an in-depth look at the Civil War’s impact on American history. The museum features various exhibits and artifacts that tell the stories of soldiers, families, and others who shaped this critical period. Visitors can explore the museum’s impressive collection, including personal items, uniforms, and battlefield relics. Engaging exhibits provide context and insights into the complexities of the Civil War.

23. Attend a Wine Tasting in Virginia’s Wine Country

Virginia’s Wine Country is a delightful destination for wine lovers and those looking to enjoy the beautiful countryside. The region is home to numerous wineries that produce a variety of exceptional wines, from bold reds to crisp whites. Many vineyards offer wine tastings where you can sample different varietals and learn about the winemaking process.

24. Play at Busch Gardens in Williamsburg

Busch Gardens in Williamsburg is a world-class theme park offering thrilling rides, entertaining shows, and beautiful gardens. The park’s European-themed sections span across different countries, providing a unique ambiance and an array of attractions. Visitors can enjoy roller coasters, family rides, and live entertainment suitable for all ages.

25. Discover the Appomattox Court House National Historical Park

The Appomattox Court House National Historical Park is a significant site in American history. It marks the location where General Robert E. Lee surrendered to General Ulysses S. Grant in 1865, effectively ending the Civil War. The preserved buildings and landscapes offer a glimpse into this momentous occasion. Visitors can explore the historic court house where the surrender took place. Engaging exhibits and guided tours provide insights into the events leading up to and following the surrender. The park also features a visitor center with additional resources and information.

SOURCE: THETOURISTCHECKLIST.COM

What Shall We Bake Today?

The second offering in our Back-to School desserts is Mint Chocolate Cookies. These promise to taste like a version of Girl Scout Thin Mints.  I’ll let you know when I try them!

ingredients

1 cup butter, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

3⁄4 cup packed light brown sugar

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1⁄2 teaspoon salt

2 eggs

2 cups all-purpose flour

1⁄2 cup cocoa

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 2⁄3 cups mint chocolate chips

directions

Heat oven to 375 degrees F.

Beat butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla and salt in a large bowl until creamy.

Add eggs; beat well.

Stir together flour, cocoa and baking soda.

Gradually add flour mixture to butter mixture beating until well blended.

Add chocolate chips to batter.

Drop by rounded teaspoons onto an ungreased cookie sheet.

Bake 8 to 10 minutes or until set. Cool slightly; remove from cookie sheet to wire rack.

Enjoy!