In Valrico, the residents of Osprey Heights Gracious Community Living center have transformed their gathering room into a festive holiday scene with an impressive gingerbread display.
The gingerbread exhibit, a centerpiece at the community living center, showcases an array of creatively decorated gingerbread boats, each fashioned with various candies, chocolates, and even chips. Leading this delightful fleet is a giant pirate ship, a fitting nod to Tampa’s maritime culture. Resident Valerie McDarby, who contributed to this project, expressed her awe at the display, stating, ‘My thought was we need something from Tampa Bay, and all I could think of was boat parade and ta-da, but I never could have imagined what the residents and the staff have come up with. It is just magnificent.’
The creative endeavor commenced in September, bringing together residents and staff in a collaborative effort. Jenni Emery, the community manager, highlighted the importance of this central space, calling it ‘the heart of the building’ and emphasizing its role in fostering community spirit and creativity. A notable contribution came from new resident Shielia Breighner, who built her first gingerbread house, adding a personalized touch to the display. Her gingerbread house is part of a small village, complete with Rice Krispies, which not only forms the hilly terrain but also creates the ocean waves.
Breighner described the sensory experience of the gingerbread display, noting how the scent of gingerbread and icing whets the appetite of those who visit. She also remarked on how the display perfectly fits around the Christmas tree, allowing everyone to walk around and enjoy the view. ‘It just brings out all the joy of Christmas and all the joy of our community. We are a community,’ McDarby added, underscoring the sense of togetherness that the project has inspired within Osprey Heights.
The gingerbread display at Osprey Heights Gracious Community Living center not only enhances the festive atmosphere but also strengthens the bonds among its residents, turning the holiday season into a shared celebration of creativity and community.
Source: Fox13news
