Creating Holiday Magic: StoneRidge Senior Carpenters Bring Nordic Village to Life

The holiday season at StoneRidge in Mystic, Connecticut, is not just a time for festive decorations; it’s a season of creativity, camaraderie, and community spirit, especially for resident Ron Hunter, a woodworking enthusiast.

For Hunter, the woodshop at StoneRidge is not just an amenity – it’s a haven that drew him to the community. “We all need to have something to do. I had a woodshop at my home, and now I have one here, too,” shares Hunter. When his woodworking talents became known, StoneRidge staff saw an opportunity for something special: a community-wide holiday display.

A Community Collaboration

Since 2020, Hunter, along with fellow residents and staff, has been the driving force behind the creation of the Nordic Village, a stunning holiday display right on the grounds of the senior living community. What started as a small project has evolved into an impressive village featuring a chapel, four houses, a train station with a functioning train, a mill, a skating pond, and much more. This year, nine new features have been added, making it a truly enchanting spectacle.

Over 33 residents actively contribute to the ongoing development of the Nordic Village, highlighting the strong bond between the residents and their community. Hunter collaborates closely with the administration on budgeting, resourcing and construction, showcasing the collaborative spirit that defines StoneRidge.

Hunter expresses, “There are so many things happening here that residents initiated, led and accomplished.” From tending gardens to creating quilts for Veterans Day, the community is a testament to the residents’ initiative and drive. Even recreational areas like pickleball and bocce courts were spearheaded by residents themselves.

Celebrating the Season

The Nordic Village, located at StoneRidge senior living community, 186 Jerry Browne Road in Mystic, will be open to the public throughout December. To celebrate this labor of love, StoneRidge hosted a festive holiday event for the community. Attendees explored the Nordic Village; enjoyed hot cocoa, cider, and delicious snacks courtesy of the culinary team; and witnessed a 4 p.m. performance by the Shoreline Bell Ringers in the community’s auditorium. Emphasizing the spirit of giving, StoneRidge encouraged attendees to bring unwrapped toys and warm clothing items that will be donated to local charities.

For Hunter and so many others, life at StoneRidge provides purpose, personal connections, and a lifestyle that’s meant to be enjoyed. To learn more about life at the community, give us a call at 860.536.9700 to schedule a visit.