gingerbread houses

One of our traditions at Christmas is to bake home made gingerbread houses.  I got some cookie cutters from Williams Sonoma years ago that help to shape our houses like pieces of a puzzle.  It is a long process, but that is what I like about it.  One day we make the dough then stick it in the fridge until we are ready.  Next we roll it out.  Assemble it another day and then let the kids decorate!  I let them each make their own house which means that by next year I will be making three!  We have been battling a terrible stomach bug in our house so a little candy and sugary sweetness has helped brighten our moods during the craziness of the season.  Hope your day is sweet too!

run...run...as fast as you can!

I often find that my gifts start with inspiration from a picture book. For this family of four it was no exception. I saw this book called "The Gingerbread Pirates" and designed the rest of my gift around it. A gingerbread onesie for his baby brother, a bottle of Baily's Irish Cream with a "gingerbread man" drink recipe for the dad and some gingerbread girl bubble bath for the mom. I wrapped everything with cellophane and used silver glitter initials so they could identify which gift was for whom. I love when I can find a theme that works for a whole family!