Back in high school, a bunch of my friends took home ec (I could not because it always conflicted with my AP classes -- because, of course, college-bound students didn't need home ec and no one who wanted to take home ec was AP worth, damn it, school), and the fall semester, they always made the most beautiful, elaborate, delicious gingerbread masterpieces. Castles and cabins in the woods and skyscrapers, etc.

I have never managed to make even one out of a box.

They are the devil's decorations, I tell you. The devil's. (Do love icing and candy, though.)