Mix the flour, baking soda and salt together first. Take the top off the ornament first then take the funnel and place it into the ornament. Use the flour mixture first first and pour it in. Make sure to shake the flour mixture to a straight layer before going to the next layer. Next use the brown sugar and again make sure that it is even before going to the next layer. I sometimes use something small like a skewer to push things around if they are not even. Add the white sugar next then the m&m's. Put the top back on the ornament. You should not need anything to keep the mixture inside the ornament if you use the ones I called for, but if you use a different kind then make sure to place a piece of foil at the top before inserting the ornament top. It is not recommended that you hang these ornaments after they are filled because they will be too heavy. Use ribbon to decorate the top and include directions to make the cookies.

Directions to make the cookies:

Attach a card with the following directions:

Gingerbread m&m Cookies

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line one baking sheet with parchment paper.

Empty the contents of the jar into a large bowl and mix until all the ingredients are well combined.

Using your hands work in 3/4 cup softened butter or margarine until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Beat 1 egg with 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Work this into the flour mixture until well combined. Dough will be a little crumbly.

Shape dough into 1 inch sized balls and place 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Slightly flatten the balls with the palm of your hand. Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 10 to 14 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned. Remove cookies to a rack to cool. Makes about 1 dozen cookies.