gingerbread tradition

Family traditions make my momma heart sing. Gingerbread decorating is just one of those special traditions that add to our Christmastime merriment.  Not to mention, it's the first night the kiddos sport their matching jammies together. Another Fokens' tradition that gets us in the spirit of things.

We mixed our project up a little this year by crafting a "his" and "hers".We stick to the pre-assembled kits to help us all be less stressed.  After starting both candy construction zones at once--we decided to concentrate on one at a time. 

Every year, I promise that I'm going to remember to construct the project before nap time so there's no waiting around for everything to set before the artist goes to work. And, this year--the day flat got away from me. Tis' the season! 

It's not about perfect construction, candy symmetry, and exact frosting placement though. That ruins all the fun in the 5 year old world.
This month especially nights like these are  cozy times together as a family participating in teamwork & sharing, listening to Christmas music, and relishing the times while our kids are little. So, that was our mission-- but at times these projects can get a little harried with little frosted hands, dropped candy and spills.

Miller won us over when he commented, "Santa's gonna loove seeing these when he comes down the chimney." That one comment made the construction frenzy all worth it.

Lots of little candies added to the train.

It takes attention to detail to please Santa:)

As you can see, Miller's smiler was enough to show how pleased he was with his finished project.

Cinderella's castle construction project was next. We had a minor wall mishap during construction, but a little frosting glue saved the day. Eliza Kate had her own ideas about where all the candies should go. 

The marshmallow clock striking midnight was just the finishing touch to make our castle complete. Of course there was a lot of imaginary play with her cardboard cut- out Cinderella doll & stand. 

Wa-La-- our gingerbread construction crafts circa 2012. Handmade with lots of love.
 

 

Now if we could only get the little miss to stop eating all the candy.

Treasuring our traditions & looking forward to many more.