As friends and families joined together for ISOH/IMPACT’s 2011 International Tea and Gingerbread Party held on Saturday, December 3 at the Hilton Garden Inn at Levis Commons, nothing sums up the experience better than the words shared by one of our guests, “We wouldn’t miss this for anything. This is our fifth year and we always have soooo much fun!” From the delicious soup and sandwiches, scrumptious treats and delicious flowing chocolate fountain, to the endless bounty of sweet confections that lit up imaginations in the gingerbread room, treasured holiday memories were created for all. The beautiful Christmas music provided by our guest pianist and flutist soon inspired many to join in for some spontaneous caroling, and a surprise visit from Santa was applauded with joy.

As you can see from the photos, in addition to the good food, children of all ages thoroughly enjoyed the process of transforming the blank canvases of undecorated gingerbread houses into artistic masterpieces. Joy-filled voices could be heard all around as they asked, “Can we eat some of the candy now?”, “Did you see my new dress and shoes?”, “Do you like my house?” and “Can I please have some more frosting?” Decorating supplies ranging from M & M’s, gumdrops, and coconut, to alphabet pretzels, gummy bears and jelly beans were often supplemented by a trip to the chocolate fountain to pick up large marshmallows for snowmen or to the food table for a beautiful wreath cookie perfect to add festive touch to a gingerbread house roof.

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From our volunteers, staff and sponsors, to each of our guests, we sincerely thank everyone who helped to make this year’s event a success. Special gratitude is extended to the leadership and staff of the Hilton Garden Inn at Levis Commons for their gracious hospitality. We look forward to seeing everyone again next year’s party. Together we can continue to make a difference as we Reach Out and Serve those in need around the world and right here at home. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!