The homes on Gingerbread Lane

Figured I'd put in an appearance over here in blog land.

I really can't believe just how fast Christmas has crept up upon us.

I mean seriously.

Where did 2011 go?

I have quite a bit of time off this week, and since the kids are out of school, I've been hoping to do a decent job of involving them in some fun activities that hopefully don't cost an arm and a leg.

I've been trying to think back over the past few years and pinpoint traditions that we've kept for the holidays.

I'm not sure if there's any one thing we've done consistently over the years, but  a few of our favorite Christmas activities have included looking at Christmas lights, baking, taking the kids to shop for presents, visiting the Magical Forest here in Vegas, and perhaps the occasional craft.

Tonight we made gingerbread houses.

It was fun, and just a wee bit messy.

Haley's masterpiece.

Ashley's....

( I just love how two points of the star behind her head were in the exact position a couple horns would be in. Eerily significant!! lol

Proud little artist.

Perhaps the messiest crafter. He just wanted to keep adding to it.

A closeup of Jason's completed house. Lots of marshmallows!

Justin's

Ashley's, sadly after the roof collapsed.

and Haley's. I'm digging those chocolate hedges lining the walkway.

And of course, I had to try my hand at it too.

Fun, fun, fun.

Why is it that they don't really taste quite as good as they look?

What are some of your favorite Christmas traditions?