I'm happy to say that in my area, it really is still something you can see. I've noticed many people being a lot nicer and happier, and so many "Merry Christmas" wishes at stores that it has actually shocked me. People just come out and say it. I know that shouldn't be an odd thing, but we all know that in the last decade it's gotten more and more rare.
* 2 cups white sugar
* 1 cup shortening
* 5 to 6 drops Anise oil (the American version preferred by some of the kids, 1 Tbls. vanilla extract 1 ts. almond extract)
* 2 eggs
* 6 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup milk
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (180 degrees C).
1) Mix together sugar, shortening or margarine, Anise oil(or vanilla extract and almond extract). Cream these together until light.
2) Add eggs and beat well.
3) Combine flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt ( use 1/2 teas. if using margarine).
4) Add to sugar mixture alternately with milk, ending with flour mixture. Dough will be quite stiff and may require mixing the last bit of flour in by hand.
5) Roll out portions of dough on floured board and cut with your favorite cookie cutters.
6) Place on greased cookie sheets and bake for 10 to 12 minutes .
Test for doneness by touching lightly with your finger. If there is no dent, they're done.
Cool and frost, decorate with colored sugars and colored frosting..
Note: If you like crisp cookies, roll the dough thinner. For more cake-like dough roll thicker and use metal cookie cutters.