Last year, we attempted to make "gingerbread" houses out of graham crackers. The activity was so much fun to do as a family, we planned to make a tradition of it. This year, we started construction on Christmas Eve morning, and it didn't take long to realize that with two boxes of crackers that had a bit of curve, we wouldn't be able to make the fancy shapes we did last year. Every time I cut into a cracker, the curve caused the whole thing to break. This time, we were still able to be creative, but we had to do it all with squares and rectangles. Will and Allen and I shared the photographer's duties, but, in the end, all three of us preferred playing with the houses than the camera.
Introducing the new housing development for Candy Land:
This long house by Ben has simple lines, but the roof is decked with minty dark chocolate M & Ms and round sweet tarts. The home is surrounded by green cobblestones and has a colorful patio to entertain guests.
The square home by Will has a colorful stone M & M entryway, and the yard is covered with star-sprinkle flowers. Two candy-canes form a ladder so Santa can easily climb to the marshmallow chimney.
Another long house was designed by Jon. This unique home was designed Pueblo-style with a rooftop entry. The home is ascended via a colorful ladder so that only invited guests may enter the colorfully-tiled roof. The property is surrounded with colorful gardens and sweet stones in intricate patterns.
This merry little cabin, designed by Maddie, is the only peaked roof in the neighborhood. The gable is peaked with a peppermint stick and matching pieces frame the doorway. A beautiful stream and waterfall surround the home, and beautiful blooms shine even in the winter. The home comes pre-decorated for the holidays with shining lights and Merry Xmas on the shingles. This sweet home won't last long -- see your realtor today!
For the homeowner who believes less is more, we have a cozy, open-floor plan tent by Allen for you! This home with simple lines is surrounded by nature! Keep warm by the chocolate chip fire circle with butterscotch-pecan fuel and cranberry embers. The first snowfall never seemed so sweet!
This custom-designed abode was created by Sarah. The rainbow patterns on the roof attract a lot of attention, but this fancy spot is too small for living. The home has bright doors and windows, but there is no room inside for the baby and lambs. (In reality... the designer started with one thing in mind, but changed her mind part way through the project when she discovered the stale rice noodles and marshmallows in the pantry.)
I am praying today that all my loved ones have their homes ready for Christmas and that their hearts are ready for the sweet babe to come shine His light. I'm praying that His light shines through the windows of your hearts today and everyday... that you taste and see that the Lord is good! Merry Christmas!
