Gingerbread Houses

Gingerbread Houses

By Tyler Weaber

The tradition of building gingerbread houses dates all the way back to Germany in the 16th century. This tasty tradition was brought to Londonderry Village this year.

The two gingerbread houses were created by our employees under the direction of our new Director of Food & Nutrition Services, Harry Short. No one better to create a beautiful, candy filled treat then our own creative dietary department who work day in and day out to make new exciting dishes for our residents!

Harry was looking for a way to bring his whole team together and have them participate in a holiday themed activity. Homemade gingerbread houses was the obvious choice. It did not take the dietary team members long to coat on the icing, drop a gumdrop or candied sugar on the houses. Through their creative effort, what once was candy, graham crackers and icing has now turned into a bright work of art. The team was encouraged throughout their workday to casually take breaks, stop at the gingerbread houses, and add their own design to the structure. “It was a lot of fun. Once I started I kept adding to it,” says Tim, one of our line cooks.

“It was a really nice way to get the entire team involved in a fun project,” says dietary staff employee, Barb.

The two gingerbread houses took roughly two weeks to complete and are located in our Wheaton Lobby and our Snell Community Center lobby, so residents and visitors alike can enjoy their beauty. Although they look tasty, please remember not to touch (or eat!), as they are for viewing only. LV’s dietary department hopes these beautiful creations help to spread holiday cheer and reminds everyone that holiday traditions live on.

Thanks to our dietary department and to Harry for this wonderful holiday idea! Wishing everyone a happy holidays and safe new year!