Does your neighborhood have a cookie exchange or a get together during the holidays?  Mine does, and these are always the cookies I bring. They're a nice break from chocolate (did I really say that?), and they're festive -- white with a touch of red in the middle.  They're also delicious! These cookies were shared with me many years ago by a neighbor in Olympia, Washington, whose name I've unfortunately long forgotten.  She made these cookies at holiday time, and I just loved them, so she shared the recipe with me.  I hope you enjoy them.

1 cup butter or margarine (I use margarine)
1 teaspoon vanilla
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup powdered sugar
2 cups flour (you can add up to ¼ cup more flour if the dough is too sticky)

Maraschino cherries, cut into small pieces

   Cream butter with vanilla and salt.  Gradually add powdered sugar, creaming well.  Then gradually add flour and mix thoroughly.  Shape into walnut-sized
balls (1 teaspoonful size).  Place on ungreased cookie sheets.  Flatten to ¼" high with the bottom of a glass rubbed with a little butter then dipped in granulated sugar.  Press one cherry piece into the center of each cookie.  Bake at 350 degrees for about 9 minutes or until edges turn light golden brown (top of cookie should be white).  You may need to adjust the baking time, depending on your oven.  Makes about 3 dozen.