Creating Christmas Magic

Three years ago, we received a phone call from a friend that is a local bar owner. She was hosting a toy drive, and searching for one of Santa's helpers that dresses just like him and a photography company that could come along to capture moments with Santa. Lucky for her, we've got the REAL Santa on speed dial, and we were all available to come give her a hand. Lucky for US, we met one of the most remarkable women ever created. She was behind the entire event that helped no less than a dozen local families.

Her name is Peggy. This local woman has devoted her life to making magic happen for other families. She doesn't limit herself to toy drives at Christmas, but also organizes canned good collections for food pantries at Easter, and contributes to helping families in need throughout the year.

Because of Peggy, I feel inspired to do more for our community. I see commercials, daily, asking for donations for children and families in other countries. My heart goes out to them, but before I help them, I'd much rather know that I'm not going to pass someone on the street that's hungry. I want to know that the cute child I heard laughing in the grocery store is able to have something under the Christmas tree this year. I'd like to think that if my family or I were in need of assistance, others would feel the same way and would want to return the favor.

Today was one of Peggy's events. She hosted her third annual Toy Drive for the Caring and Sharing Organization - and the turn-out was spectacular! Several dozen local families will be celebrating a much merrier Christmas this year. The authentic Santa and Mrs. Claus were, once again, in attendance for photos that were printed on site. Uncle Paul the Magic Man "who has tricks better than anyone else can," mystified and entertained the kids. Steve the DJ played a spectacular array of classic and modern Christmas music along with a mixture of Top 40 hits, and kept the kids on the dance floor. A clown, a face painter and crafts were available, as was an informative D.A.R.E. officer and a cheerful group of Wentzville firemen. John Bradford performed his anti-bullying hit, Sing for the Silent and serenaded everyone with a Christmas carol. A local group of Girl Scouts were in attendance to help keep the party moving and to give a hand where ever it was needed.. and just when we thought they couldn't become more wonderful, it was announced that they had adopted a very special family for Christmas! Everything was held at Wentzville's lovely bar, Maggie Malone's.

Sound like fun? We think so! Next weekend, Peggy's having ANOTHER toy drive! This one will be at Pizza Plus in Winfield 1:30-4:30 pm. I'm attaching a flyer with full details for the event in with a few photos from today, but if you'd like to be involved, click "like" on Peggy's fan page - Peggy's People. She checks it about every other day, and is always in need of volunteers or donors.

The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched - they must be felt with the heart. - Helen Keller