This was one of the favorites at the Eldridge Gingerbread Auction in 2009. Constructed by Christopher Julian, it sold for $1,000.
"Waiting to Launch..."
A Jayhawk Santa sits atop the orbiter waiting for liftoff with his bag of gifts for all the girls and boys.
"Fondant and Royal Icing"
Christopher built the red launch structure from royal icing. The shuttle and Jayhawk characters were made out of fondant.
"Fondant Jayhawks"
Christopher's Jayhawks are flawless and the cutest darn things you have ever seen. This Jayhawk sits below the shuttle, preparing himself for the blastoff.
"Fuel Tanks and Launch Pad"
The liquid fuel tank was made from gingerbread and the solid fuel rocket boosters were made from giant candy canes. Both tanks were covered by fondant and decorated with royal icing garlands and colorful bows.