2005 — 34 posts, oldest first

The Old Can of Snakes Trick ...

Tuesday, January 11, 2005

Today I write a bit sad and confused. I drove far west to visit one of my old girlfriends and her family. She recently had her second child and found out some scary news about her health. It's very serious and hard for me to come to grips with it all. She's been through so much ... but faces the toughest challenge of her life now. If anyone can beat the odds ... it's gonna be her.

We had a fun visit and broke out the old magic videos ... the memories came rushing back. We had some really great times ... I'm just surprised we didn't go further.

I really got a kick out of her little boy .. he's three and full of energy. I brought him the old can of snakes trick ... you know .. where the snakes pop out. Well he really enjoyed that ... over and over again. I know if I'm every lucky enough to have kids ... they'll be pretty messed up with a dad like me ... but in a good, messed up kinda way .. right?

Steve

P. S. If you get a chance .. maybe you can say a little prayer for Teen. The man upstairs will know who you're talking about .. just mention my name.

Post ID 19 · recovered verbatim from the database

Open Up and Say Ah ...

Tuesday, January 25, 2005

I'll get to that in a bit .. let's see .. lot's goin' on as usual. We're actually hitting the road next week for Ohio .. we'll be at Magi-Fest in Columbus and making a few stops along the way. I'll be traveling with my new Cabin Boy .. Dan Sperry. He's also a magician ... a freaky looking one at that ... but I'm one to talk.

So I went last Friday to the eye doctor for my first check up since I was a kid. I've been noticing some of the stuff in the distance is getting a little blurry. I've never had glasses .. so I figured it was time to get checked. I was a little nervous .. but it was kinda fun. Turns out my eyes are in good shape .. so that's cool ... no glasses for now.

Next stop was the vet with two of my snakes. Snuggles, my boa .. had a case of the sniffles .. so she needed some antibiotics. Samantha ... my albino burmese python had some swelling in her gums. It took three of us to control a snake her size ... it was almost comical at times .. really. Looks like they'll both be fine after a series of injections and a cream that needs to be applied daily to the inside of a pythons mouth! Yes .. I am out of my mind ... I actually inject my own snakes to nurse them back to health. Let's just say it's not an easy task and the chance of getting wrapped up in my work ... is a very real danger. It's just one of my occupational hazards ...

Did I mention I'm out of my mind??

Steve

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Magic Therapy ..

Saturday, January 29, 2005

Last night I got the cleaning bug and began in the Magic room. I started in what I call Sheppard's corner ... that's where I keep my treasures built by the master craftsman himself. Walter Sheppard is one of my dear friends ... he fine tuned my building and painting skills ... and along the way taught me a bit about life. I'm actually going to visit him next week ... any time I'm in Ohio .. I'm there.

As I was cleaning some of the magic pieces he had hand crafted .. it was almost therapeutic. The hours of time that went into each prop .. the sanding, the coats of paint. All the lessons I learned from him .. all come back. He changed the way I look at things .. and I even picked up some of his bad habits. I asked him one time in the shop .. "Why do you have so many things going on at once? Why don't you finish one thing at a time?" He replied .. "I get bored with it. When I do get something done ... I get a lot done all at once." That's a typical answer from the master ... and that's what I look forward to hearing each time I visit ...

Steve

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Back to Work ....

Saturday, February 19, 2005

I know .. what's the deal here .. a few weeks go by and no updates .. I do see a pattern here. We got back from Ohio .. and we had fun time. I needed to get away for a few days .. but of coarse there wasn't much rest. We got to visit old friends and make some new ones. Magi-Fest was a good time .. it would be even better if there were more girls interested in the art of magic .. but that's just how it is. We also made our annual stop at Cabbage Cases and had lunch with my buddy Mike Hannah. I even performed some magic for them .. right in the shop. We had time to catch my good friend, Tom Rozoff perform his Fire Safety show and stop at Skyline Chili afterwards. I could really go for some of that right about now ... it's only a five hour drive!

Lately I'm playin' catch up on the multiple projects I began long ago. I always have too many things going on. This weekend we're out doing shows ... so that's cool. Little Ashley will be joining me ... getting sliced and diced three times daily ...

I still like that line ... who else can claim anything like that?

Steve

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Snuggle Up ...

Saturday, March 5, 2005

So it's Friday night .. most normal people are out .. I'm home giving Snuggles a bath. I do take good care of my pets .. and in the summer, she's even in some shows. I guess I've been a bit distracted lately ... my mother was back in the hospital for a weekend away. It's one way of looking at it .. but she's doing better now. I'm actually working on an interesting project .. that some .. including myself, never thought would happen. I'll have the full story once things are set. Let's see ... not too much other news .. but I can't wait for the spring to break. Winter wears me down .. and I like to be outside when I can. I still take Rocky for two walks everyday .. no matter how cold it is ... because whatever Rocky wants ... he gets!

Steve

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Now I know why ...

Tuesday, March 22, 2005

Sure ... I've got no excuse .. I'm like a broken record .. it's been a few more weeks here. I was the kid in school that waited till the last minute to do my homework ... not much has changed .. but I do this for you ... the fans. It also helps me sort out some things here .. and speaking of .. I had a show the other night with Valerie. I was quickly reminded why I'm not married .. only a few hours with her is enough to drive someone crazy. I could go on for days on this subject .. but I won't. Maybe one day in my book .. hey, that would be pretty funny .. she would have her own chapter.

OK .. enough of that .. let's see, Greg and Quissy will be in town this week .. that will be fun. I caught a movie the other day .. Robots .. that was cool. Oh yea ... it's spring in Chicago and it's still freezing .. enough already .. I've got to get outside and get some sun .. so I can look just like Jack!

Steve

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April Showers ...

Wednesday, April 13, 2005

Yesterday I was pretty bummed out .. it was cold and rainy all day. I've also been a bit worried about by shepherd, Rocky .. he's been having problems with his back legs. He's doing a little better .. so that's all I can ask for. He means the world to me and I'll do what ever I can for him. He has faithfully watched over us for ten years now. We still go for our walk twice a day .. just at a slower pace. I'm just grateful for everyday that he is here with me.

In other news .. the summer line up looks pretty good. We'll be at a lot of fairs and festivals though out the Chicago land area. We'll also be at Santa's Village in Dundee , IL on select dates. Look for details in the Show section of the site. In the mean time, get off the computer and get outside ... enjoy the weather!!

Steve

Post ID 13 · recovered verbatim from the database

Photo Shoot ...

Wednesday, April 27, 2005

We had a fun weekend .. Friday was Magic Master, an annual show and banquet. I actually helped out on stage with my friends Mike Di, Dan Sperry and Bobby Hunt. The show went smooth and we all grabbed some late night breakfast and caught up some fun. Sunday we set up for a photo shoot ... right here at the house. My good friend Barrett sets up shop and we get all dress up. We'll have some of the pics up here eventually. We were joined by Angel, Valerie and Dan. We finished up around 9:30 and finally had some pizza for dinner. After a short break we began to pack things up. I was exhausted after a long day. All in all we had a fun time. Nothing is better than spending some time with good friends .. thanks guys!

Steve

Post ID 12 · recovered verbatim from the database

Miracles ...

Monday, May 2, 2005

It looks beautiful outside .. I love this time of year .. but my heart is aching right now. My poor dog Rock can barely walk right now . and it's killing me. I knew this time would come .. but it doesn't get any easier. He's still awake and alert .. he just can't walk. You can see what a beautiful dog he is ... the pic on the first page is from just two weeks ago. I'm praying for a miracle .. he's too good of a dog to let go. A little prayer for my puppy can always help.

In other news .. Mom is coming home tomorrow .. and she's doing well. She was off in Florida for two weeks. I also started working a regular gig at Max and Erma's in Woodridge, IL. I'm actually doing table magic on Sundays from 5 - 8pm. It's something a bit different for me .. but I like being with people and it's very interactive. So if your in the area ... stop by and grab some dinner.

Steve

Post ID 11 · recovered verbatim from the database

Broken Wand ...

Thursday, May 12, 2005

I've got some good news .. and some sad .. first the good. Rocky is doing a bit better .. my vet actually came to the house and gave him a shot. He showed me what to do .. and I'll be giving them twice a week. He's been getting around without help most of the time. We still have to skip our walks .. but I'm still hopeful we'll get to the park again one day.

Now the sad news .. the magic world has suffered a great loss. The Dean of the Society of American Magicians, Jay Marshall passed away on Tuesday. Jay was actually a good friend of mine .. always with advise ... and a joke or two. He was in the hospital for a week or so .. but I thought he was going to pull out of it .. but his time was up. I thought that I needed to do something special for him ... so I went in the shop and made him his last wand. This is what we magicians call .. the Broken Wand. It's actually snapped in half at the funeral. We live our lives sharing our magic ... now the spell is broken ... "snap." I'm honored that I could do a little something for someone that has brought me so many memories ... and sunshine everyday.

I'll miss you Jay .. and lefty too ...

Steve

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May the Force be with You ..

Friday, May 20, 2005

Yes, we were among the freaks that went to see Star Wars at midnight on Wednesday .. my mother even came with. The movie was amazing .. lots of eye candy .. almost too much. I'm still a fan of the originals .. that's what I grew up with .. but it's all good.

Things are warming up out here ... the weather has been a bit crazy near Chicago. I know if I wash the car .. it's going to rain again. Our summer tour will kick in soon, some of the dates are in the show section. My birthday is on Monday .. ya getting old ... but it's better than the alternative ...

Steve

Post ID 9 · recovered verbatim from the database

Road Trip??

Thursday, June 2, 2005

Road Trip??

I'll actually come back to that story .. lot's to catch up on. My birthday was last Monday .. and it was simple and quiet. The "Inner Circle" went out to eat and back to the house for a game of cards. Let's see .. what else .. oh had a nice weekend and saw Star Wars .. again .. cool stuff. Just the other day, Marshall Brodien stopped over for a visit. He was Wizzo on the Bozo show .. and ironically we were watching old tapes of him the night before. He's an amazing man and always fun to be around.

Now back to the road trip ... Dan (as seen in photo on home page) had the brilliant idea to see a magic show in Battle Creek, MI last week. We started our journey at 3pm for a 7:30 show, miles away. We made it to New Buffalo, MI. when I began to have my doubts. Dan forgot about the time change .. we lose an hour .. oops! So, I call Greg at our Vegas office and give him our location. He's always sitting by the computer. Using the internet, he calculates that we still have 92 miles to go in 90 minutes. That's cutting it close .. but it get's better. I had him check on the show time ... sure enough it starts at 7:00 not 7:30. Now I know it's not going to happen .. especially as three lanes are merging into one. Dan throws in the towel .. and we turn around. I told him that I would be reminding him of our little road trip for years to come!!

Steve ... Freak!

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Breakin' the Law ...

Tuesday, June 7, 2005

Got your attention?? Once again .. I'll come back to that. So .. I lose my cell phone the other day .. I thought it would turn up .. but it didn't. I head out to the mall with my sidekick Dan .. actually he looks more like Sideshow Bob, now that I think about it. Anyway .. I'm looking for a new phone and the sales dude is trying to up sell me everything. He's too pushy .. so I bail out. So we go shoppin' .. and sure enough we wander into Wilsons Leather. I need another jacket like a hole in my head. So I'm trying on jackets, meanwhile Dan is making fun of the messenger bags. I said that's a "man purse" .. what are you doing?? Next thing I know he's buying a man purse and I'm buying a jacket I don't need .. but it was on sale!

Now for our lead story .. I get pulled over last night by Naperville's finest. I'm just out taking mom for some dinner and to Kohl's. Next thing I know we've got a cop on our tail ... great. We're in mother's Town Car .. I'm not speeding .. so what's up?? Sure enough I forgot to buckle up .. a simple mistake. I was honest about it and I still got slapped with a $55.00 ticket. I understand it's the law and all .. but do they really need to pull me over for something stupid like that?? Shouldn't they be going after "real" criminals instead of collecting revenue for the city?? I feel so much safer now.

So, I'm out $55.00 .. I still have no phone .. but, I do have a cool jacket!

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Hot in the Shade ..

Monday, June 27, 2005

It's been hot in the Chicago area .. too hot. We need some rain too. We've been busy with shows .. in fact this past week I did ten shows in six days. I know, I'm starting to sound like Paul Lee .. but anyway. That's the good news .. but things haven't been going so well for my poor dog, Rocky. About a month or two ago .. he was actually walking again. It was amazing and I would drive him to the park every day. For the past ten years we walked over a mile every day. We both kept in shape that way. Right now, I walk alone .. and it's sad .. my trusty dog has to stay at home. I'm now at the point where I have to make the decision .. but I just can't do it. He's been my loyal companion for so many years ... how do you say "Good-bye?" I've dreaded this day .. but we are running out of options. I don't want him to suffer. With him .. I will lose a piece of me ...

Steve

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Good-bye My Friend ...

Friday, July 8, 2005

Let me tell you a story about a boy and his dog ... it has a very sad ending though ...

Yesterday I had to let go of my best buddy, Rocky. My poor dog has been struggling for months with an illness that takes away his ability to walk. Only about two months ago .. he was getting better .. but that was short lived .. and I reluctantly brought him to the vet for one last visit. The thoughts and images are still clear in my mind .. I feel defeated, I let him down, how could I do this to him .. there was nothing more I could do for my trusted friend. I dreaded this day for years .. I didn't want to hear of it .. but I knew the day would come.

We started off the day as usual with his meal .. and he was still eating like a horse. I brought him to the park one last time and asked God to take care of my puppy while we're apart. I never wanted to say good-bye to my buddy .. never .. but like my Dad had told me years ago .. You'll be together again one day ..

I hope he's right ..

Steve

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And Life Goes On .....

Monday, July 18, 2005

Ya .. I'm up early .. I haven't been getting much sleep. Everything is different these days .. it's been over a week since I said good-bye to my buddy Rocky .. and I'm still hurting. The house is silent .. I still look for him in his favorite spots , but he's not there. I've been trying to keep myself busy .. but it's only running away from the problem .. where's my buddy? When poor Rock wasn't well, he consumed most of my free time .. taking care of him. Now I just stare out the window .. looking for him in the grass .. but he's not there. I still feel lost with out him ...

Steve

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The Sound of Thunder ....

Monday, July 25, 2005

Today .. finally, some rain came through our area .. not much, but we'll take what we can get. It's about 9am and I hear the storm coming .. followed by the rain. I've been working all week and was trying to get some rest .. and of course I left the top off my Jeep .. so I'm going to get wet. Then I was reminded of the last time we had a storm come through .. probably about a month ago. My buddy Rocky was frightened by the storm .. and I had to go downstairs and lay beside him to comfort him. He became more sensitive to some things .. and thunder and lightning made him nervous. Funny thing is, any time mom use to cook .. he would get nervous too. Why you ask .. he enjoyed home cooking .. it's just when she would go for the oven .. sure enough the smoke detector would go off .. just about every time. Poor Rock would go up stairs and hide in the tub .. ya the tub. I don't know why .. but it was always a funny site. I know I have to remember the good times .. and there were plenty of them. I still miss my buddy everyday ..

Steve

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Home away from home ..

Monday, August 8, 2005

That could only be one place .. Colon Michigan. If your not in the magic community .. then you don't know what I'm talking about .. but it's one of the biggest magic conventions in the country. I took a few days off from my schedule to get some rest and see my magic friends. Highlights include a visit to the cemetery at midnight, a night in Japan and of course hanging out with Blade at Five Star Pizza. The countryside is beautiful .. I look forward to the fresh air and at night, seeing a million stars in the sky. There was magic everywhere .. in the showroom and on the streets. The small town atmosphere really can do wonders for the mind and the soul ... you can feel the difference. The memories on and off stage will last a lifetime ...

Steve

Post ID 25 · recovered verbatim from the database

Starting over ..

Tuesday, August 9, 2005

So I'm driving out to a little town called Harvard, IL and there's a little church by the side of the road with a sign that reads "Free trip to Heaven .. details inside." I thought that was pretty cool .. and that today would be a good day. I went to pick up a new puppy from Shewana Shepherds. They have been more than helpful in my quest to fill the void left in my heart. I had the pick of a new litter and this little guy really stood out. He's a black and tan shepherd with and attitude, he's already got the walk goin' on. We had a busy day after the drive home .. he's already met some of the neighbors and the UPS driver. He seems to be settling in just fine .. and follows me around like my shadow .. heck, I should have named him "Shadow." As the day was winding down it was time to rest. I laid beside him on the floor as he fell fast asleep .. I was strangely reminded of the last few moments I spent with Rocky. I'm happy with the new arrival .. yet I still miss my buddy. I know in time things will even out .. and I'll be strong again. The circle of life continues ... now I hold my puppy to the sky for all to see and exclaim to the heavens .. "Behold Rex!"

Steve

Post ID 26 · recovered verbatim from the database

So Far, So Good ..

Wednesday, August 17, 2005

It's already been a week that we've had little Rex join the family .. and he's doing just fine. Most of the neighbors have come out to meet him .. before he gets too big. Apparently just about everyone in the subdivision feared for the life when Rocky turned the corner. He was actually very gentle .. if you knew him of course, other wise he would eat you for lunch. Rex has a lot to live up to .. but he's been catching on pretty quick. Tonight I'm testing him out in the kitchen .. hopefully he won't tear it up too much. He's been eating like a horse .. and I've been told he's bigger than last time anyone saw him. I've got a few days off this week, so I've been spending them with him. I just bought a new digital camera at Target the other day .. I had a 10% off coupon, so we'll have lot's more pics showing up on the site. I'm not real sure how to set up a photo gallery .. maybe Greg can set something up .. and while you're at it Gregory .. I could use a spell check on here. You wouldn't want me too look bad .. right? How about some color here too .. pretty please. In magic news .. I'll be attending the Houdini Club of Wisconsin convention at the end of he month .. and there's a big show in Crystal Lake, IL on September 24 that we'll be premiering a brand new illusion. More on that later .. maybe even some pics .. who knows?

Steve

Post ID 27 · recovered verbatim from the database

Well, he does do Magic ..

Friday, August 26, 2005

That's actually a line from a new movie that's out about a 40 year old .. pretty funny stuff. What's funnier is we were the only ones in the theater laughing at that line .. I think we blew our cover. Life as a magician is a bit different .. in fact a mom came up to me after one of my shows today and said her son wants to be a magician when he grows up. I simply replied .. "well, you can't do both." I'm not even joking .. it really happened and that's what I said. Magic keeps me young ... and I know I haven't been writing much about the magic stuff .. but "life" gets in the way. Summer is winding down and my favorite time of year is fast approaching .. the fall. Nothings better then the smell of a fireplace and the crunching of the leaves on a walk at night. We do have some fun stuff coming up including a show in Crystal Lake on September 24 at the Raue Center. We will be premiering a brand new illusion called "Windshear" where I'll actually be risking it all as I pass through the blades of an industrial fan. If all goes well we'll have more shows in October .. otherwise you'll see the prop on the Magic Auction. That's more less a joke for the magicians out there .. and you know who you are .. you've got a Doug Henning picture framed on the wall, kinda like the one I have over .... ouch!

Steve

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Is the End Near??

Thursday, September 1, 2005

I try to see the good side of things .. but what is going on here? It looks like like a war zone down south .. it's just crazy. These type of situations bring out the best and the worst of humanity. I can't imagine what all the good people are going through out there .. and I do believe there are more good people than evil ones. Yes .. there is evil and no matter what God you believe in .. there is evil out there .. it's real. I can understand the need for food and water .. that's all about survival .. but there are people stealing TV's .. that's just stupid .. that's just greed. Now they're shooting each other .. what's next? Personally, I think our Army should be back here at home taking care of our people .. we should come first. I know it's easily said .. but things are getting a bit out of hand here at home. I won't even mention that gas is well over $3.00 a gallon .. don't get me started about that .. the rich keep getting richer!

Ok .. some magic news .. I'm heading up to the Houdini convention in Madison, Wisconsin this weekend. I'm also performing at Santa's Village in East Dundee, IL during the day .. ya .. I'll be driving back and forth. A little nutty when gas is a bit expensive .. and I've got the biggest Chevy van on the road. It will be a fun time thought .. and I'll be able to spend some time with my friends. Things are slowing down and summer has come to an end .. I do love the fall and I'll enjoy going for my walks once again with my new little buddy, Rex.

Stay safe and enjoy the weekend ..

Steve

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So I'm the Emergency Room ...

Thursday, September 15, 2005

No .. really .. I'm sitting there in the little gown with the open back .. not feeling too hot. Last week I was coming down with something .. and I just couldn't "kick it" as Franz would say. After being a bit stubborn .. my brother took me in. Now, with some antibiotics running through my veins .. I'm a bit better now, thanks for all the cards and letters .. I'll be just fine.
Let's see .. what else .. ah, I had lunch with "Lenny" last week ... she did shows with me back in the early 90's .. when snakeskin spandex was in fashion .. I miss those fun days. Jenny got her nickname from the many times we would wind up at Denny's after our shows ... I know it still really doesn't make sense .. but we get it. We went to a Chicago land favorite called Portillio's .. and if you're not from the area .. you just can't get the same beef or hot dogs anywhere else. Of course for all my vegetarian friends like Terry Evanswood, they have a Tuna sandwich to die for ... at least according to him .. really. Last time I was heading down to Tennessee to see him .. and he wanted me to sneak one on the plane for him. Now I'm completely off the subject .. but Jenny and I had a fun time as always. We both kinda grew up together .. and met some fun friends along the way. She even made it through the Abbott's adventure two years in a row .. and she still talks to me. After lunch we headed over to Big Lot's, so she could get a deal on some Kleenex like my mother told her. We grabbed a cart and cruised the isles .. she said if I was good she would buy me something. I did get a bag of chips out of the deal .. so I can't complain.

Steve

Almost forgot to mention that Jenny is still all that .. and a bag of chips!

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Reunion Tour ..

Tuesday, September 20, 2005

They said it couldn't happen .. but the picture says it all. This is my old girlfriend, Tina from about ten years ago. She stopped by Santa's village with her family and I just happen to have an extra outfit for her to try on. Sure enough .. she did the last show with me that day ... and even after eight years being apart .. it was just like riding a bike. All the pieces fell back into place. It was like traveling through time .. really.
Yes, of course this was all part of my evil plan .. but, it really brought her spirits up. She is currently being treated for cancer and is going in for surgery next week. Hopefully all will go well and she will be back on her feet soon enough. We already have a show scheduled at her church in October and she's really looking forward to it. This has been a very difficult year for me .. and I really can't imagine the world without her. She's a tough chick ... that's what I keep telling her .. but a prayer or two can always help. Sure, we broke up years ago .. but my girls always come back .. one way or another ... and if a picture says a thousand words ... then I'm speechless!

Steve

Post ID 34 · recovered verbatim from the database

Winds of Change ..

Wednesday, September 28, 2005

I couldn't help but notice the change of seasons today .. I had Jenna on my arm and we watched the clouds go by. Summer is all but gone and the fall came on fast .. today was cold and rainy in the Chicago area. Jenna, by the way, is my parrot .. not like I had a chick over or anything .. that's a whole other story. Anyway .. I've been trying to get my life back in order and stick to a schedule .. but it never fails .. life gets in the way. Most of today was spent taking Mother to the hospital and the doctor, to see about her breathing .. she'll be OK.
I've been working non-stop since the beginning of summer .. things are starting to slow down .. so I can catch my breath. We just had two big shows out in Crystal Lake over the weekend where we performed the Windshear Illusion for the first time. Eventually we'll have a pic up here .. but it's a 36" industrial fan that I visibly pass through while the blades are spinning. All went well, I survived .. risking my life for your entertainment. It's always a bit challenging adding a new illusion to he show .. but Angel and I really worked on this one. We also had Tony with to make sure we had enough fog on stage .. and I did need someone to help unload this 600 pound, beast of an illusion. My buddy Dan was also on the show with our new Chezababe in training, Heather. The pic is from the dressing room .. that's Dan with all the make-up .. on the right. We all grabbed a bite to eat after the show .. and we were relieved that all our hard work had paid off .. now on to the next show .. and the next illusion ..

Steve

Post ID 35 · recovered verbatim from the database

Shadows ..

Tuesday, October 4, 2005

Today was a long day .. and I'm tired. After taking care of things around the house .. I got the pool ready for the little monster. As you can see in the photo .. Rex really likes playing in the water. Then it was time to hit the road .. off to the BK Lounge in Streamwood. After three hours of walk around magic, I headed over to Schaumburg to drop off some equipment. Now it was time to meet up with little Danny .. so we cruised over to Starbucks for a chat. Funny thing is .. I don't even drink coffee .. now that would make a good trivia question .. for all you stalkers out there. Anyway .. I get sidetracked easily .. and it's about 11 o'clock, I'm gettin' sleepy .. so I head home.
My day isn't over just yet .. first, I have to check on Jenna .. she hasn't been acting right .. so we might have to go to the vet later today. Once she's asleep .. it was out the door again .. around midnight for a 1/2 mile walk with little Rex .. ah .. now this is what got me thinking tonight. As we were walking .. the street light played tricks with our shadows. At one point, Rex's shadow is stretched out .. looking very much like a full grown shepherd, just like the familiar shadow of my buddy Rocky. For a moment .. it was almost like he was walking beside me once again .. if only in the shadows ...

Steve

Post ID 36 · recovered verbatim from the database

Rocktoberfest ...

Saturday, October 8, 2005

Here is a fun pic from the other night ... that's Dan and I walking the streets of Naperville. We found these goofy hats and wore them the rest of the night. Once again we stopped at a Starbucks for a warm beverage. This time I tried some type of Vanilla Creme. The funny thing is .. I think I'm getting hooked .. it was just the thing on a cool fall night. Our little buddy Jason Reberski joined us for the adventure. Jason is Dan's little Cabin Boy now .. so, if Dan is my Cabin Boy Jr. then Jason would be Cabin Boy Jr. Jr. See how that works ... it all makes sense to me. Jason won't like it though .. but that's how things work around here, at least in my little world.
In other news .. Tina is still in the hospital after another operation. I spoke with her today and she was a little confused .. but that's alright .. I was glad just to hear her voice again. She's all the way in Peoria, IL and that's almost three hours away .. which doesn't make things any easier. Once again I've been booked everyday this week .. and I really want to go see her. It's hard when things like this come up .. and there are only so many hours in one day. We still have a show scheduled at the end of this month .. but that might be pushed back until she's feeling up for it. The other night I actually watched some vintage video from 1995 with Tina at my side. Over the course of years we performed together hundreds of times .. we really had something special on stage .. you could say it was magic!

Steve

Post ID 37 · recovered verbatim from the database

262 Miles Later ...

Tuesday, October 25, 2005

First thing .. it's 1:30 am and the Chicago White Sox just won game three of the World Series .. this is just amazing! Now lets see .. where to start .. I've been a busy little boy. Ah .. funny story from last Friday .. it was boyz night out and we stopped at Culver's for some burgers. We were going to see a movie at the AMC .. but nothing really was worth ten bucks each .. so it was a Blockbuster night. I was out voted two to one and the movie "Saw" was the choice for the evening. I'm not really into the gross stuff anymore .. you kind of out grow it. I sat down with Rex and sure enough, it was pretty wicked. The funny thing is, after Dan went home that night .. he couldn't get to sleep. I guess the spiked one is a little more sensitive to scary movies. In light of the situation this weeks double feature at the Chezaday Cinema will be "Finding Nemo" and "the Goonies."
The following day I woke up with song still in my head. I had a strange feeling all day .. and I couldn't quite put my finger on it. The weather was cool and crisp .. and my first stop was in the town of Ottawa. This was the special reunion show with former Chezababe, Tina. She recently got home from surgery and wasn't ready to share the stage just yet. I was glad she was there .. and she even remembered the show order for me. I'd ask what's next .. and she would quickly reply from the audience. The event was right along side the Illinois river and it was a beautiful day ... as you can see. I'm grateful Teen is back home .. and she'll get stronger with each day.
My next stop was near the Wisconsin boarder for a show with Marshall Brodien and friends. I barely had enough time to set up and grab a cold slice of pizza ... then it was show time. Everything went well and the audience was very enthusiastic. We stopped at a little Greek resturaunt afterwards and shared some good times. It was a long day .. and by the time I was back home I had driven over 262 miles .. all in the name of magic.

Steve

Post ID 40 · recovered verbatim from the database

Smashin' Pumpkins ..

Thursday, November 3, 2005

Halloween is always a busy time around here .. almost too busy. I was booked every night last week .. it's feast or famine being an entertainer. We did make some time for a road trip last Saturday to see David Seebach's show. Its held at the historic Modjeska Theater in downtown Milwaukee. Dan and my brother joined for the adventure .. and David always does a great show. They say the theater is actually haunted .. who knows, but it really adds to the overall experience. At the end of act two there's even a blackout with spooks and spirits floating about .. even Dan was screaming like a little girl. Ok .. maybe I'm exaggerating .. but I do like to pick on him .. after all he's an easy target. On the way out I took this cool picture in the back alley .. it just looked creepy to me. Later we grabbed some dinner with the cast at an authentic Mexican restaurant. I cleared my plate .. it was so good. I mention this only because I rarely eat everything .. I'm a picky eater .. just ask my mom.

I was pretty beat after working all weekend so I had Monday off .. after all it was Halloween and I've got to smash some pumpkins and get my share of candy ..

Steve

Post ID 41 · recovered verbatim from the database

Looking for a Sign ...

Wednesday, November 9, 2005

It's almost 3:00am .. and ya, I'm still up. I've been trying to catch up on things .. I even had a few days off .. so I didn't have to shave. I'm not much for shaving .. but I've got to look good for the show. I'll be getting to bed soon .. once the Nyquil kicks in of course. Now, I kinda remember what happened last night .. it was 3:30am and something woke me from my sleep .. in fact it was like something or someone was here. I'm not quite sure what all that was about but I managed to get back to sleep. Later that same morning ... I did have an unpleasant nightmare. It was very sad and disturbing .. it still bothers me now. When I do remember bits and pieces from my dreams they are very vivid .. the colors, the sights ... my heart pounding when I wake. Most of the things I see, have little clues to what's going on in my life. Last nights was a little different .. something that's been bothering me for awhile. Sometimes I look to the sky for the answers .. and wonder if anyone is listening. I'm not going to get all religious on you .. but I've got a lot of questions to ask .. anyone there??

Steve

Post ID 42 · recovered verbatim from the database

Six Months and Counting ..

Thursday, November 24, 2005

Ok .. here's what's up ... I've got six months to find a wife .. or I have to marry this friend of mine .. that I don't really want to marry. I know sounds ridiculous .. but, I've only got six months till my 40th birthday .. and everyone else is married by then. So .. it's one of those deals .. that you marry your friend, if you can't find anyone else ... see how that works? At the very least .. I've already started planning. Last night we went out to Synergy in West Chicago and saw an amazing band called the Fabulous Janes. I was so impressed with them .. I decided that they will play at the reception. See, now I'm already making plans .. this is where I need your help .. I need to find a wife .. and fast! As most of you know .. I've had a few girlfriends, here and there .. but I'm looking for a nice girl .. not too crazy either .. I'm like a magnet for the crazy ones. Many of which can be seen right here on the site. Alright .. we won't go there .. but if you know someone that likes magic and could meet the challenge ... send them my way .. please!

Steve

Post ID 43 · recovered verbatim from the database

Ya .. it's that time of year again ..

Wednesday, December 7, 2005

So, today I'm digging through the basement trying to find the good old Christmas tree. I can't believe another year has passed since I went through all this. The memories do come rushing back .. and it can be a bit sad sometimes .. but we're all in good health as I write .. so I'm grateful for that. The basement on the other hand, looks like a bomb went off. Ya .. I've got too many things going on at the same time .. one of my bad habits. As soon as I get one project finished .. ten more pop up. Not only that .. but I'm still out there performing ... almost everyday if you've seen my schedule. Sure it's a good thing I'm busy .. it's just I can't seem to catch up. I should be cloned .. that would solve a lot of things .. that goes on my list today.
I can't believe all the people that actually read this stuff .. but I got more e-mails about my future bride than anything else. I'm glad you're all concerned about me .. but hey let's get going here my time is running short .. send in your applications today!
Let's see what else is going on .. my little guy, Rex is doing fine .. he's six months old and close to 70 pounds now. He's still a monster .. but he's been pretty good over all .. well, aside from chewing on the wall when I left him home for a few hours on Thanksgiving. He's my little German Shepherd if you haven't been paying attention to my life story here. In other news ... my brother Jeff, is somewhere on a cruise with another family .. at least he's keeping warm. Did I mention it's freezing out here .. almost forgot about that. We've been in the single digits out here in the mid west for the past week. I'm getting a bit tired of it all .. moving out in the middle of a desert doesn't seem like such a bad idea right about now!

Steve

P.S. Yes Greg .. I'm looking into the HDTV thing .. we'll see how much more Comcast is going to add to my bill each month.

Post ID 44 · recovered verbatim from the database

Santa's Workshop ..

Wednesday, December 21, 2005

My house is up for grabs .. I go from one project to another .. but right now my Magic Room has been transformed into Santa's Workshop. I've been trying to get some wrapping done, a little at a time. I've even got some rockin' Christmas music by Gary Hoey playin' in the background. I do have to admit a little earlier I was listening to some new Alice Cooper .. which seemed kinda weird while I'm wrapping toys .. but it's all good. The weather right now is still a bit cold .. we went for the short walk tonight as it was only about five degrees above zero. Last weekend we finished our Holiday gigs and hopefully I'll have some time to catch up on some things that have been piling up around here.
While I'm thinking of it .. I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or what ever you're into. Hopefully, one day we'll actually see peace on earth before it's too late. As I write, everyone in my family is in good health. What more could you ask for .. well, besides fame and fortune .. but there's always next year.

Wishing you peace, health and happiness in the coming year ...

Steve Chezaday

Post ID 45 · recovered verbatim from the database

You Can Tune a Piano ..

Thursday, December 29, 2005

But you can't tuna fish .. that doesn't make much sense now, but it will by the time you get to the end of this entry. Last night my good friend Terry Evanswood came over for a visit. For those in the magic world .. you already know who I'm talking about. I've know Terry even before he was driving .. that would over twenty years ago. We both worked the Chicago area, hitting the same spots year after year .. one year they would have Terry .. next year they would have me. We were each others competition .. yet we always remained friends. At times it was like a game, we had fun trying to one up each other. About ten years ago, Terry picked up and moved his show down to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. This past week, he was in town for the holidays, visiting friends and family. All week long, he looked forward to getting a tuna sandwich at a Chicagoland favorite, Portillo's. I remember he said he was past starving when we met at 9:00pm. We sat down at the table and dug in .. but something was wrong, the sandwich he ordered was frozen inside. Terry brought it up to the counter and to no surprise, they said they thought so. The tuna came in frozen and they couldn't cook it properly. They offered him a hamburger, he's a vegetarian .. so a cup of onion soup would have to do. Poor Terry got a refund and was still hungry when we left .. but the night wasn't a total loss. We stopped at my house with his nephew Ryne and my brother, Jeff. We watched some magic videos and then popped in some Merril Howard Kalin to finish off the night. I can't really explain Merril right now .. but those who are the know .. get it. It's always fun to share some time with Terry .. especially when he's not trying to bump off the competition.

Steve

Post ID 46 · recovered verbatim from the database