This year, I made my parents a very special early Christmas present: a portrait of them as pastries, in front of their house (yep, the one I grew up in) in New Jersey!
My mom is depicted as a sweet little cupcake with a sewing project, a fancy little handbag, and a box of chocolates from Jean Louise in Spring Lake.
My dad is depicted as a frosted brownie, with shades and a surfboard even in winter. Because yes, that is how he rolls.
Here's the reference picture I used:
;)
First, I made a pen and ink drawing. 
I took a break to test out various methods of applying masking fluid to make a snowy look. 
and further along: 
and here is the picture and the finished piece side by side.
I think it came out pretty darned cute, and I thought by posting it here, it might just make you smile. Well, did it? Hey, maybe you should hire me to make a portrait of your family next year or for an upcoming birthday. Just sayin'. Find my online store here.