The Astronomer and I celebrated our thirteenth wedding anniversary last weekend. In line with tradition, I prepared something delicious inspired by antiquated anniversary gifts. Thus far in our marriage, The Astronomer has been gifted edible interpretations of Paper, Cotton, Leather, Fruit, Wood, Sugar, Wool, Bronze, Tin, Steel, and Silk.

Since it is customary to bestow lace upon one’s beloved in recognition of the thirteenth anniversary, I baked oatmeal lace cookies using this recipe from Simply Recipes. While I have made plenty of cookies over the years, I’d never attempted one that was so delicate, nearly flourless, and almost candy-like. It took three attempts to nail the cookie’s characteristic caramelized edges and lace-like interior, but truth be told, the two batches that were removed a touch too early from the oven still tasted delicious, albeit less crunchy.