Flashback Friday ~Away in a Manger

When I heard that Happier Than a Pig in Mud blog was hosting a Nativity event I knew exactly what I wanted to share. For several years I was on the search for a Nativity scene that was similar to the one i grew up with under my parents Christmas tree.

Of course I knew I wouldn't find the exact one, but I wanted a little wooden manger with mossy grass and an angel that hung from the top. The angel was the key for whatever reason. I just think its the sweetest part of the scene besides the baby Jesus!

My parents still put that same Nativity under their tree so I had them send me a picture. I forgot to ask where they originally got it, but its been around as long as me (42 years) and then some. So I will just venture to say its a least 50 years old. Funny, I had never noticed the paint swipes....


Well last year I was at Tuesday Morning and my search finally came to an end. While its missing the three kings and a cow and an ass it does have my moss and hanging angel!



I would love to keep it under my tree, but wouldn't you know it...Jigs thinks the moss tastes pretty good. Who me????


I shudder to think of what they might use to preserve it, so I've got it set up on my kitchen counter instead. The Nativity linky party is not until December 14th, but I plan to link up when the time comes. Be sure to check the others out HERE. Look at the pretty logo for the party.



I haven't yet started my holiday goodie making, but I did go grocery shopping after work for all of the baking supplies I'll need. Here's a Flashback to a cookie I make every year. I know many of you reading this have made them too and why not! Peanut butter and chocolate can't be beat.

Peanut Butter Blossoms



Ingredients

1 3/4 c Flour
1 tsp Baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup shortening
1/2 cup peanut butter
1 cup sugar, divided
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 egg
2 T Milk
1 tsp vanilla
1 bag chocolate kisses

Directions
Grease cookie sheets. Set oven to 375°. Sift flour, baking soda and salt. Cream shortening, peanut butter, 1/2 cup sugar and brown sugar. Stir in egg, milk, and vanilla. Blend well. Stir in flour mixture 1/2 cup at a time. Form 1 1/2 inch balls and roll in remaining sugar. Place 2 inches apart on cookie sheets. Bake about 8 minutes. Remove from oven and top each cookie with an unwrapped kiss and bake 2 minutes more. Cool for a minute and remove to cooling racks. Makes 3 dozen - so you may as well double it!

If anyone has a Flashback of any kind they'd like to share add your link below.


I'm joining in over at Designs by Gollum for Foodie Friday. Check it out HERE.