GINGERBREAD MEN

1/2 C butter

1 C firmly packed brown sugar

2 t baking soda

2 t salt

1 t cinnamon

1 t ginger

1 t nutmeg

1 t cloves

1 1/2 C dark molasses

2/3 C water

6 1/2 C flour

Cream butter, sugars, soda, salt and spices until light and fluffy.  Beat in molasses and then water.  Gradually stir in enough flour to make a stiff dough.  Shape dough into ball and wrap in plastic wrap.  Chill for several hours or overnight.  Roll out dough, a little at a time, to about 1/4 inch thick.  Cut with 6 inch gingerbread man cutter.  Place them on lightly greased baking sheets about 1/2 inch apart.  Bake at 350 degrees for 10 - 12 minutes.  Remove from sheet and cool on racks.