Mickey Johnson has loved woodworking as long as he can remember; especially holiday projects that bring a smile.
His work starts in July: when tools come out and Johnson s imagination travels to the North Pole.
I built the first sligh ten years ago and each year I ve added a few more pieces. I buy lights on half price sale and then spend the next year trying to figure out what I m going to do with them. Eventually, it fill up the whole yard.
If he had his way, Johnson said his Christmas would be up everyday.
Not just for a yard sized Seasons Greeting, but something more important to him.
You see, ten years ago his daughter was diagnosed with leukemia, but thanks to OHSU and a new cancer drug, she is in remission, feeling well and her prospects are good.
Right now she is ten years clean she has to take a pill everyday, but no side effects or anything like that.
Johnson wanted to give back and his idea seemed right at home for a retired drama teacher who used to design and build sets for hundreds of local high school plays.
He built a sleigh, found a costume and became a Santa.
Now, each evening before Xmas, he warms the cold winter air with his good cheer and he greets all who stop by his Forest Grove yard.
I wear long johns and fleece pants under the suit if it s really cold, I ll put a couple of toe warmers in my boots.
Rain, snow, hail even windstorms he s been through them all the past decade.
People come, bring their kids and sit them down on Santa s lap and take pictures. We have a big sock here and folks can leave donations for the Leukemia Society. This is my little contribution whatever we can do helps a little bit. This is a good way for paying back for what they ve given us.
It is pay back that might help other children; a personal thank you that lives year round with the Forest Grove Santa.
You can visit the Forest Grove Santa on evenings, Dec 19-23 @ 1901 Willamina Avenue in Forest Grove, Oregon.
