Gingerbread Houses

It has been a yearly tradition in my family, for many years, to make graham cracker houses as a family. When Jason and I got married we wanted to continue the tradition but since there were no graham crackers to be found (or a suitable substitute that we could find) we decided to give classic gingerbread houses a go. In years past, we have put quite a bit of thought and energy into them. Now, that the kids are old enough to really want to get involved we keep it pretty simple and easy so that the kids can decorate as they so wish. Last year we didn't even bother making our own gingerbread and opted for a kit from Ikea (which didn't last too long before all the moisture in the air caused it to crash). This year, we went the same way as it was simple, and simple is good. Atticus and I had already made a gingerbread house in the hospital, but we wanted to make one as a family and we wanted Keely to join us in the festivities. So, we got a couple kits, picked out some candy, made some icing and went to work. I was behind Keely's camera for some of the fun (which was great, because I love her camera - there is some serious camera envy going on here) but somehow there are no photos of Milayla and I pitching in. I promise, both her and I had our hands in all that lovely sticky icing and candy, building to our hearts' content. Atticus even helped me make the icing. I think I actually may be getting the hang of making that Royal Icing that is recommended for the "glue". sigh. Well, it's a good thing, pictures or not, we were all part of making those awesome memories and enjoying a family tradition. So, without further ado, I present...the photos (which were all edited by the lovely Keely, and the ones that were also taken by her are marked as such.)

A great shot from Keely.

This photo is Keely's handiwork

this is one of Keely's

And, as should have been expecting, our house crashed within a couple days, just like last year (didn't even make it to Christmas this year). But we still had fun making them. Keely's house outlived ours...at least the majority of it.

Sigh...guess we better start planning for next year. Already looking forward to it!