Marc Estes

This year will mark my 51st Christmas. Over the past half of a century, I have had many memorable moments. I vividly remember hitting a parked car on my brand new bike at age six; that was definitely memorable. I also remember the time throwing up at my Aunt’s house from eating too much fudge and peanuts; yep, that was a memory. I also reflect back on all the special moments with my children being snowed in at Lake Tahoe, sharing those precious moments as a young family; definitely memorable. But this year will have to go on record as the the Christmas that I will remember for a lifetime.

Last summer, our church decided to take Christmas to a different level. We dreamed, “What would it be like to bring Christmas to over 1,000 children, who may not have a Christmas due to their difficult life circumstances?”  The dream was turned into an action plan led by Melissa Vogel and Dot Tobey, and these two incredible ladies raised over $40,000 in gifts, donations and food to serve hundreds of families in need.

Yesterday, the dream became reality as we hosted our First Annual Live Love Christmas. 280 volunteers showed and transformed our lobby and gymnasium into a huge shopping center, complete with shopping aisles, wrapping centers, hospitality section and places for people to sit and enjoy special music.  Parents came in and shopped for over 1,000 kids. (See TV News video below).

The day was filled with tears of joy and gratefulness  as families filled their bags with toys for their children. We also gave out fifteen bikes to specially selected families, who were overwhelmed with the reality that their child would receive their Christmas wish. I wish I could publish the incredible stories that unfolded throughout the day, but the list would be too long. Needless to say, many life changing moments took place throughout the day.

Presents were all donated by  KGW TV, Zing Toys, Toys for Tots, KOHL’S Department stores and many private business people. Starbucks and Panera Cares supplied all the coffee and pastries. CBC members donated wrapping paper, and we even were given 150 Christmas Trees  for any family needing a tree.

After two days of set up, thirty hours on my feet, a steady diet of cookies, coffee and pizza, I have to say this will be a Christmas to remember.  I do understand that the actual day of Christmas is still a few days a way,  but I have to confess, I feel like I already had the best Christmas ever. Living to give, not to get is the best way to spend Christmas. We are already dreaming of our next Live Love Christmas. Hope you will be a part, or start a Live Love Christmas in your town!