
In a mixing bowl, combine the sugar and oil; mix well. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in molasses. Combine dry ingredients; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well. Shape into ¾ inch balls and roll in sugar. Place 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake @ 350º for 10-12 minutes or until cookie springs back when touched lightly. Remove to wire racks to cool. Melt vanilla chips with shortening in a saucepan over low heat. Dip cookies halfway, shake off excess. Place on waxed paper. (Meg is our champion cookie maker! She keeps her kitchen fragrant with the smell of baking cookies, especially at Christmas!)