In a previous post I had mentioned that while home for Thanksgiving we made gingerbread houses.  Well here’s the proof in pictures!

Ahh…the sweet decorations.  (BTW we’ll be saving Valentine hearts, Easter and Halloween candy to prepare for next years!)

 

Making the frosting glue.  I used this recipe:

2 large egg whites, 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice, 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted

Beat the egg whites with the lemon juice. Add the sifted powdered sugar and beat on low speed until combined and smooth. The icing needs to be used immediately or transferred to an airtight container as royal icing hardens when exposed to air. Cover with plastic wrap when not in use.

I’m not sure why my niece Madison enjoys cooking with me so much NOR do I understand why my sister doesn’t like it???

Emma and I starting the building process.  This was my first gingerbread house EVER!!

  

The results…Emma’s house…nice and orderly.  Noticed the patterned roof line!

Then there’s Madison.  I think she enjoyed herself despite the hand gesture she’s showing. (she was licking her finger!!) hehehe.  She LOVED adding and adding decorations to hers.

Madison’s results…Whew…purdy…

This was Marcia’s gingerbread tailor.  Complete with a replica of her dirty white van.  I believe the cow is making messes in the yard, there’s a hole in the roof and the lean to carport is a bit cadywhompus.

     

The big girls joining in the fun! Brooke, Diane, Beth and Megan.

Brooke took the “small cottage with attached garage” I made and turned it into a beautiful looking train!!  I think the Aidan & Dallen would love to make trains next year!

Then there’s anal-retentive Beth working diligently to line up all the sweet tarts in color order…   

  

I think we all had fun!  I’d love to do them again next year and perhaps join in the fun…given enough time.  I think Beth and I could have a contest!  One lesson learned is to construct the houses maybe the night before and decorate once they’re set the next day.  AND I’ll be on the look out after Christmas to buy the $10 kits on clearance to stock up for next year!!