I decided with the kids off school and so much time between our trip and Christmas that we could make gingerbread.  It turned out to be a lot of fun and it did fill up the days.  I realize this is 3-4 day process.  The kids had a great time helping and we have more to do tomorrow.  All the kids in the compound found out about the cookies and house decorating party and before I knew it we had a table full of kids all decorating gingerbread cookies..We ran out of candy so the houses aren't finished.  There's always tomorrow and Grandma and Grandpa Cook will be here tomorrow to help us!  Even MORE FUN.

Parchment paper was so the answer I was looking for to prevent sticking while rolling and while baking.  Another key was to keep the dough COLD.