1 c. shortening
1 c. sugar
2 eggs
1 c. molasses
1 c. butter or sour milk
1 tsp. salt
5 1/2 c. flour
4 tsp. baking soda
2 tsp. ginger
2 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. cloves
1/4 tsp. nutmeg

Cream shortening and sugar. Beat in eggs, molasses and milk. Mix in remaining ingredients. Refrigerate dough for 1 hour. Roll dough 1/4 inch thick, cut with Spam can cover. Bake at 325 degrees for 10 to 12 minutes.

ICING FOR COOKIES:

1 pkg. Knox unflavored gelatin
1 c. sugar
3/4 tsp. baking powder
1 c. cold water
1 3/4 c. powdered sugar
1 tsp. vanilla