Valentines Cookies

I've been sick since January 2nd - you know - the sore throat, swollen glands, ears that hurt, sinus headache, occasional cough. Two weeks ago I finally gave in and went to the dr. He gave me 2 weeks worth of antibiotics that is normally a 10 day regime and said: "Call in 2 weeks and let me know how you're doing - if you are not at 100%, I'll call in another 2 weeks worth." I'm some better, but not enough to think that the antibiotics are really doing anything. I'm thinking it must be viral and antibiotics aren't going to help anyway. I'm conflicted about whether or not to call. Guess I'll see what tomorrow brings.

Anyway - I've been sick - and I've been busy - hence, not many posts. I did want to share some cookies that I made for a friend's wedding and other things.

Christmas Preparations

Christmas! Just saying the word brings with it so many feelings, thoughts and desires! I want to do things for other people - I feel so grateful for our blessings - I'm thankful for my Savior Jesus Christ; His birth, His sacrifice and His resurrection. I desire to be like Him. I want to have our family around us. I enjoy the sweet feelings of peace and comfort that exist within the walls of our home. Christmas!

This Christmas Season so far has been a bit of a blur. Right after Thanksgiving my hubby had some major back surgery. He has healed incredibly fast and well - a tender mercy from a loving Father in Heaven! But there was still stress and worry and some sleepless nights and I'm still working almost full-time. All of those things I traditionally do the first couple weeks of December didn't happen. We did get the tree up and decorations in place Thanksgiving weekend - everything else was put on hold. This week I started baking. And sewing. And making lists ~ lots of lists! And slowly crossing things off of my lists. And making more lists! :) I know you know what I mean!

So - here are the cookies I made last weekend. Gingerbread. Fabulous, soft, yummy gingerbread cookies. I love how the kitchen smells when I make these cookies. I copied the snowmen that were featured on Bakerella's site a couple of weeks ago. It's very obvious that she is a professional.... hmmmm - just don't look too close!


And this - the directions said: "15 minute table runner." I was skeptical. It actually took - from beginning to end - 25-30 minutes. Not bad though! It wasn't the fabric choice I really wanted, but when you procrastinate sewing projects at Christmas-time, you get what no-one else wanted either! Oh well - This was a practice one - the ones I make this summer for next year (yea, right) will be fabulous! I had to laugh because the project I left out after Christmas last year to work on over the summer never did get done....to be perfectly clear....never got started! Oh well - there's always next year - Right?!

Gingerbread
1 c. molasses + 1 c. shortening
Put in a small saucepan and just bring to a boil. Simmer for 2 minutes - remove from heat and cool.

1 egg
1 c. sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
1 tsp. baking soda + 1/2 c. warm water
6 c. flour
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. cloves
1/2 tsp. ginger

Cream egg, sugar and vanilla together. Add molasses/shortening mixture and mix till blended. Add soda water and mix well. Slowly add dry ingredients and blend until mixed well. Dough will be quite stiff. Roll 1/4" thick, cut out and place on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake at 375 for 8-10 minutes. Remove immediately to a cooling rack. When completely cool decorate or store in an air-tight container.

What's your favorite Christmas beverage? I think ours is slush! Recipe coming soon.
Christmas music and Christmas stories....do you have a favorite? Coming to a post soon!
Merry Christmas!