It makes me happy!

I was sure that last year would be the last year I would be able to put up my two favorite decorations. I love my Dickens Village and my Nativity but with a toddler around I didn't dare put them out. Then we got this lovely entertainment center and I have a perfect place for both of them - It just make me so happy. I know that is silly but it is just so pretty to look at. I love sitting on the couch with my cup of hot cocoa, listening to Christmas music and looking at the village and nativity - it is so cozy!I love that the light on the entertainment center is just above baby Jesus like a star - cheesy I know but I like it.I could spend hours looking at the beautiful details of the Christmas village. My favorite piece however is the newly wed couple in the horse drawn sleigh. Jared and I went on a carriage ride around Temple Square the day we were married (that was in May but I still think it is special!)I love the smell and of course the taste of Gingerbread cookies! These little guys make me very happy. I have already made two batches and I am sure two more will be made before the end of the month. They are so tasty!!!! YUM!

I thought you might like the recipe:

Cream together 1C. shortening and 1C. sugar in a mixer.

Add 1C. dark molasses, 2T. Vinegar, and 1tsp. Vanilla then mix together

In a separate bowl mix 6C. flour, 1/2 tsp. salt, 2 tsp. soda, 4 1/2 tsp. ginger, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1 tsp. cloves, and 1.4 tsp nutmeg.

Add flour mixture to the first mixture alternating with 1/2 C. hot water.

Chill for 1 hour. Bake for 7-8 min. at 350*

ENJOY!!! I love this recipe because it makes soft chewy cookies instead of the crunchy ginger snap kind of cookies.

What are your favorite Christmas recipes, and what little seemingly silly things are making you happy this season?