Samhian Remberance cookies

These cookies can be made on Hallow's Eve. They can be shaped like
people and the herb rosemary is added to the dough as a symbol of
remembrance. Some of the cookies are eaten while telling stories or
attributes of special ancestors, reminding us that we still have access
to their strengths--or perhaps a predisposition to their weaknesses. The
rest of the cookies are left outside by a bonfire as an offering. This
can be a solemn ritual, but it need not be.


1-1/2 c. powdered sugar
1 c. butter or margarine (softened)
1 egg
2 t. vanilla
1 t. almond extract
2 1/2 c. all purpose flour
1 t. baking soda
1 t. cream of tartar
1-1/2 T. chopped rosemary


Heat oven 375 degrees.

In a large bowl, beat sugar, butter, egg, vanilla, almond extract, and
rosemary until creamy.

In a separate bowl, sift flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar. Fold
flour mixture into sugar mixture. Beat until dough forms and refrigerate
for three hours.

Divide dough into halves. Roll out one portion to 3/16 of an inch on a
floured surface. Cut out with gingerbread women or men cutters and place
on an ungreased cookie sheet. Repeat rolling and cutting with second
portion. Bake for 5-7 minutes.