12 Days of Christmas - Gingerbread

Some traditions are centuries old that are related to Christmas and some are brand new!

Gingerbread houses originated in Germany during the 16th century. The elaborate cookie-walled houses, decorated with foil in addition to gold leaf, became associated with Christmas tradition. Their popularity rose when the Brothers Grimm wrote the story of Hansel and Gretel, in which the main characters stumble upon a house made entirely of treats deep in the forest. It is unclear whether or not gingerbread houses were a result of the popular fairy tale, or vice versa.

My sister is a talented pastry chef and the house on the left is one she made - wow.

This photo below is from a tradition that began 3 years ago. These are the children of my friend, Juan Carlos. JC (as we call him) was the cyclist paralyzed on Fiesta Island Aug. 12, 2014. He was in the hospital for 100 days. He finally did return home shortly before the holidays. As an opportunity to stay in contact with him and his family, and to give JC and his wife Emma a chance for an evening out, I brought over a 'Gingerbread Kit' to make with the kids. I had never put together a gingerbread house and it was so much fun.

The gingerbread house visit is now a tradition with his family. I am tempted to learn how to bake the gingerbread myself, but have yet to find the time. The store bought kits are fun, and yes, tasty!