Sunday, December 21, 2008

TRADITION!

One of our long-standing Christmas traditions is making and decorating gingerbread houses. We have such a good time, and it's one tradition that even though most the children are grown, none of us are ready to give up. This year, Jordan was home and helped me cut out patterns, cut the dough and bake, and put the houses together. It was so much more fun to have someone helping me!

All the houses are gingerbread except for one, which Nicia made out of graham crackers when she got here. It's in the back center. Here are the houses, ready to be decorated:




A work in progress:


Andrew & friend, Starry
I keep everyone supplied with frosting, while we have the Christmas music playing in the background, chatting going on, and everyone snitching their favorite candy while they decorate.
The finished products: (couldn't get one of Jordan)




I was thinking of just getting kits next year, but I have kids volunteering to help me make the houses so we can still have homemade ones (nothing like the smell of fresh gingerbread baking). I guess I have a year to think about it! I do love this tradition, though. Thank you to the Van Tassel family in Lewiston, New York, for helping me get this tradition started 25 years ago! It's been something the children look forward to every year.

2 comments:

Jake & Lisa Danes said...

What a fun tradition! Kudos to you for making the gingerbread! They all look great! I hope that you have a Merry Christmas!

Rachel Holloway said...

I think it is AMAZING that you still bake it. I honestly think the only year we EVER had fresh gingerbread for houses was when you baked it when you were living with us. My mom might have other years, but I just dont' remember. :) I was in total awe at you doing so much work!!

We do kits. No regrets here. :) Wish I had your ambition!