Experience Magic, Joy and Wonder this Holiday with Paul Draper

Posted on October 15, 2026 by shadengk

Magic, joy and wonder! Did you know Paul Draper offers shows that conjure these feelings in those who watch and participate?

Paul’s multi-faceted experience includes moderating comic con panels, headlining the most famous and exclusive magic clubs, and bringing his show to the Disney parks. He has astounded audiences around the world with feats of mentalism, sleight of hand, and downright mystical tricks. Paul is the author of “On Second Thought… Mentalism, Meaning, and Performance (affiliate link)” and has done shows, seminars, and team-building for some of the world’s largest companies. He works a room with up-close magic as easily as he leads a seminar to hundreds of people. Paul is especially good at creating the kind of experience that brings people together.

Bring More Magic to Your Holiday

If you want to feel more joy and wonder this holiday season, bring Paul Draper to your party. He’ll bring magic, comedy, and awe. If you run a business, Paul is the perfect addition to your holiday festivities. He motivates, teaches, and performs that enhances your company’s creativity, morale, and culture. Book early to get the best dates.

My Favorite Moments

As a fan of Paul the Mentalist and the person, among my favorite magical moments are the Willy Wonka song “Pure Imagination” with rings and turning bubbles into solid spheres.

This is the bubble trick, but…

…this girl’s reaction says everything about the magic:

Jim Beaver’s Choice

Perhaps the craziest trick I’ve seen is when he brought a guest on stage to meet Jim Beaver. He told the person to shake a cup with a die in it and tell him what number was on top. He had written something a Jim Beaver character would do on the back of each card. Which number came up and what happened? I don’t want to ruin the surprise. Check out the video.

Virtual Shows

Paul and I have worked together virtually. He is genuine and kind. He embodies the holiday spirit all year round. If you book Paul for your party, invite me, too, I would love to experience the magic, joy and wonder again. He even does virtual shows.

Time to Get Your Penguin Holiday Gifts Ordered

Posted on September 25, 2022 by shadengk

Jenya has put many of her stuffed penguins on Etsy. Because each of these penguins is one of a kind, it’s important that you adopt your favorite quickly. Jenya puts so much time and love into these penguins; they are hand-crafted with hand-embroidered eyes. The fabric is soft and huggable, and every penguin has its own personality. For every penguin adopted, we make a donation to the Royal Albatross Centre in New Zealand for their work with little penguins and other birds.

If you want something for stress relief, Jenya’s Roly Poly Penguins are just the thing. Hand-knit from the softest yarns, these penguins are cute, and happy for you to squeeze them. The tactile experience will help you feel calmer.

All of these penguins come with their own names, likes and dislikes spelled out on a penguin passport. There are limited number available for the holidays. Adopt one today.

Penguin Books

Looking for something different to read, Shad has written two books about penguins: “There Are No Penguins in Alaska” and “Polly Penguin Wants to Fly.”

“There Are No Penguins in Alaska” is a coloring book that includes several animals that are in Alaska. The ending will leave you with a chuckle. It is available on eReader, though we do not recommend coloring on your eReader. Shad also has a very limited number of IRL coloring books (around 30 are left from the first printing).

Shad wrote “Polly Penguin Wants to Fly” as a book his mother could read to her grandchildren. Newly hatched Polly Penguin is amazed at the birds she sees flying overhead. She wants to fly. But penguins can’t fly, can they? This book is available on eReader, in paperback on Amazon, and directly from Shad (if you want an autograph). One dollar from each copy sold, regardless of format goes to Tiritiri Matangi Island for their work with little penguins and other New Zealand wildlife.

Penguin Flat Friends

Part of the meal on the train (flat friend: penguin not included)

Only three flat friends are available for adoption. These felt penguins are about two inches tall and two dimensional. They were hand-crafted by Jenya out of felt. They make great ornaments, bookmarks, and decorations. Get them before they are gone.

Salem Holiday Market 2019: Free Calendar and Friday’s Event

Posted on December 9, 2019 by shadengk

On Friday, December 13 from 5:30pm to 8:30pm, the 2019 Salem Holiday Market is partnering with Chemeketa Community College Foundation. Entry into the market will be $8 per person or $15 for a couple; the proceeds will benefit the Chemeketa Student Relief Fund, which provides students with help for a variety of needs including meal passes and textbooks. It also supports the Chemeketa Food Pantry, which allows students to focus on studying rather than figuring out where their next meals are coming from.

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Salem Holiday Market 2019 Preview: Bliss Nut Butters (JD3) and SJL Woodworking (J15)

Posted on December 8, 2019 by shadengk

Salem Holiday Market 2019 has over 250 vendors this year, so we thought we would highlight some of them. If you plan your gift buying early, you’ll know how much you need to budget and what to look for when you arrive.