Gingerbread House Competition

Last week, I said I was having some trouble getting in the Christmas spirit.  I have taken some of the suggestions, and they are helping, thanks.  Except, Joyce I can't find any candles that smell like Christmas here.  I am sure I am just looking in the wrong places, and will keep looking.

I decided to share a different family tradition, gingerbread house competition.  Everyone brought their own kit or cookies and we decorated.  Well of course we had to eat if we were all getting together, so I prepared the traditional Christmas/Thanksgiving meal for everyone.  We had dressing, green bean casserole, sweet potato casserole, twice baked potatoes, and deviled eggs.  Most of the food was a first for most of our friends.  We didn't have a friends Thanksgiving, so this was a chance for them to try out food. 

I once again hit up China Town for all the fun paper goods.  China Town is one good deal in Australia.  All the fun paper goods and table cloth was less that $10.00.  I mean come on, the $1.00 shop couldn't beat that at home.  

Setting up was not at much fun this time, but we made it work.  Thank the Lord, I am now working most days, so I do not have all the time on my hands anymore.  Also, my partner in crime, Courtney was out of town, so she couldn't help make it all pretty.  She is one of the best "fluffers" I know.  Josh pulled through and helped me get everything together, I am lucky to have a husband who has a Home Ec. teacher as a mother. 

I really think everyone had fun just letting their creative juices flow, talking, laughing, eating, and helping each other hold their houses while the icing dried.  Patience for the icing really proved to be tricky with the kit houses.

Ameilia, her winning gingerbread house, and her first place prize.  I figured who ever won was filled with the Christmas spirit, so why not fill their car with Christmas spirit?  HA!  This was another China Town find, a kit to dress your car like Rudolf.

What is a Christmas tradition your family has?

-EAT