The little girl and the old dude . .

I can't believe it. My little granddaughter Lilly ( 1 of 2) is 4 years old this weekend. I remember when she was just a few months old I would bring her down into the magic shop and let her bounce around in her playpin. Now she is "in charge" LOL when she visits - greeting customers and changing my OPEN sign to CLOSED at night.

A few weeks ago while visiting a customer came in with some small children. I was working in the shipping area and she said "grandpa customers!" - when I came up front to greet them she told them " you need to sit here at the stool - grandpa is going to show you some magic tricks and you are going to buy them!" and yes, they did buy lots of magic - she was my 'salesman' that day...did her uncle Cory proud for sure.

Guess I am getting older -not old - just older - Happy birthday princess....

Gandpa

The Zim Twins

Life is short.  I learned today of the passing of Gene Zimmerman in Elkhart, Indiana. Gene and his family lived in their lake cottage just a few doors down from us in Columbia City, Indiana. It was ironic that he was also a magician. He and his twin brother were known as 'The Zim Twins' and peformed at functions all over central Indiana in the 50's. He used to recall stories of meeting my idol Percy Abbott and how he helped them put their show together. I bought my first magic table from him. It was home made but cleverly designed and I used it for several years. He and his wife Diane came into the shop a few times and always offered an ecouraging word.

Gene was a family man first and their family,ours and the Davis' were a close knit group growing up at the 'lake'. He was a gentle man and his friendship will be missed. 

My New Hire :)

My new hire for the week - this little secretary keeps me in check this week. My granddaughter Lilly took time out from her busy (?) schedule to put out the latest monthly numbers - er..uh...well - Curious George seems to be helping her with her math. Hmmmmmmmmmmm  now it looks good but maybe just a little more experience will qualify her for a full time position. She is also my official sign turn around-er - to show the folks we are OPEN or CLOSED.  She hasn't asked for a raise as of yet but perhaps a few pieces of chocolate will be incentive enough for a few days.

Where does the time go? She is quickly growing up - having been raised to know 'the magic shop' and our customers on a first name basis makes grandpa very proud :)  My son Cory, who is now in the Navy, got his magic start here too - my main counter guy - now serving the United States and pulling a few card tricks on fellow officers. BIG NEWS coming from the Magic Capital - we aren't releasing any details or hints....just keep an eye out here and on our sites for details ......

http://www.fabmagic.com/

http://www.colonmichiganmagic.com/

http://www.colonmichigan.org/