Directions:
Drain cherries well and count them. Unwrap an equal amount of chocolate kisses and carefully remove one side of the chocolate cookie
from the Oreo, leaving the cream filling on the other side. (Save plain side for another use.)
Melt the chocolate chips and shortening in the microwave and stir till smooth. Dip the cherries in the chocolate, shake to remove excess. Set the cherry on the flat side of chocolate kiss, then position them on the cream filling of the Oreo, slightly off center with the stem hanging over the edge. Position 2 slivered almonds for ears. Use red gel for eyes. Use the green gel to draw 2 holly leaves slightly apart, put a red berry in the center with the red gel.
Keep the chocolate warm by setting it in a bowl of warm water, it makes it easier to dip the cherries. If you can find the larger size cherries, use those. Take a toothpick, and use some of the slightly set chocolate from the side of the bowl to fill in any holes in the cherries and to make the head and body look more connected.
If you let them set a few minutes before adding the ears, the almonds will stay in place better. Try not to get chocolate all over the almond sliver.
Line a cookie sheet with wax paper to set the mice on as you put them together. When you get them all done, let them set for a few minutes before decorating. Don't forget to knead the gel tubes first or the first drop will run. You can use blue gel or any other color for the eyes if you want. The holly leaves are a little tough to get right.
