Nashville Magician - Rodney Kelley

Does It Feel Like June?

2011-06-02T01:12:00.004-05:00

Does it feel like June already? Do you still have the New Years Eve beads and hat sitting on your dresser? I really wasn't paying much attention to the time that had went by until the last show. The last show was at a little, very nice, park ... called the William Pitts Park and it's located here in Nashville. I arrived and started to unload the show when something really weird hit me, IT'S HOT OUT HERE !!

Doesn't sound like much, but I finally realized that Summer is upon us and the heat is on... I haven't been sweating at a show in a long time and the William Pitts Park was truly the Pitts, no, my shirt after the show was the Pitts! Thank God for the shaded area which was set for the performance, the shade was a life saver. Can't imagine doing a show in the sun, with 95 degree temps sweltering around you.

If you are having a show for a special event and you are doing it outdoors, plan a place in the shade or under your patio awning to have the show, audiences will sit and enjoy a lot more when the temperature is not bothering them. It was told to me once that "The colder the room, the easier it is to get laughter in the show", imagine trying to get laughs in 95 degrees.... part of me wonders, how did I make the audiences laugh at Opryland Themepark in that sweltering heat all those years, not only the heat but complete blacktop all around. Those were the days.

I'm here and I'm hot but the show must go on! My summer is booking quite well considering the economy and all the headaches that come with it. Yes, despite all the floods, tornadoes, and gas price hikes... the little show that could is still sweating it out and looking forward to having fun at the next one! Here's hoping your summer is going just as well ... and if your party is at the William Pitts Park, rest assured, I'll know where you are without Mapquest.

Rodney

www.rodneykelley.com

David Copperfield among the top selling acts in Las Vegas!

2010-03-22T20:36:00.007-05:00

In my mind, it would be hard to fathom anyone that hasn’t seen and heard of David Copperfield….but yet, as a magician myself I encounter children and adults at every show each week who have not heard of this legend! One must admit that he has not been doing as many television appearances these days, but that is because he is in Las Vegas! And according to the Ticketnews.com people his show is in the top 10 selling shows in Las Vegas along with Cher and other magicians. Well of course! All of the years of experience behind this Legend scream success! Seriously folks, I can remember back in the 80’s when Copperfield was doing superb sleight of hand mixed with smaller illusions and had Lonnie Anderson and Bill Bixby as guest stars on his television appearances, and then came the “The Vanishing Statue of Liberty”.

Clearly this illusion “The Vanishing Statue of Liberty”, was the one that catapulted Copperfield into the national and worldwide markets because it was so large and unbelievable that everyone I knew, whether they liked magic or not, was watching. Just the announcement of this feat was on every news channel and every radio station and not because the Copperfield marketing department paid to put it there, it had never been done and was that incredible in the 80’s. Other notable and wonderful illusions on the Copperfield rise to fame included: “Walking thru the Great Wall of China”, “Floating across the Grand Canyon”, “Escaping from a Falling Building”, “Bermuda Triangle”, “The Vanishing Airplane”, “Vanishing the Orient Express”, “Escaping from the Niagara Falls”, and “Flying” (one of my personal favorites).

Those are just a few that came to my mind, but there are many others and most of the above mentioned television specials were excellent! Currently, I think that Copperfield has been to my town at least 10 or 15 times touring with his show and I have probably attended a dozen of those times and they were worth it! Each visit brought some new illusions mixed with some of the favorite classics that David Copperfield should not do without. David Copperfield has a one man sawing illusion that never fails to get gasps along with his classic duck appearances and his vignettes with his beautiful assistants where they disappear and reapear somewhere else etc... His Las Vegas show has seriously got to be a huge success! If you haven’t seen David Copperfield, just break down and go, whether you like magic or not he will not disappoint, all the millions that have paid to go see him over his 20 year career can’t be wrong! I personally have not seen his Las Vegas show, but I would think that it would be somewhat similar to what he was doing when he was touring the USA. If you have seen his show you can leave your review below, would love to read it. The things that I have read on other websites have all been positive and the next time that I am in Sin City, I surely will be seated in time to see David Copperfield!
Please leave your comments about this article or about the David Copperfield show below! and Thanks for reading!

buy all your Las Vegas tickets at www.lasvegasmagicshowtickets.com

BIRTHDAY PARTY IDEAS ......Airplanes and Guessing Games !!! and more

2010-03-02T13:39:00.006-06:00

One of the things that this blog was supposed to do was explore the different ideas on what we could do to make a Birthday or other party FUN for the kids and all attending!! I have not been very good at keeping all of the details of the fun and unique parties that I have been too, but intend on starting .......every time I see a new idea I'll add it on to this post!

PINATA time: I know that you think that this is a very cliche idea and all too overdone, but, I go to 3, 4, or 5 parties a week and the kids LOVE the pinata! The kids rarely get to do this activity and in my opinion are thrilled every time they get to do it! Don't overlook this classic. It is not overused or over-rated.

PRESENTS: about the presents, if you can do this after the party, this is the one to skip. Kids really get restless and have their eyes go everywhere in the room except where they should be looking. Take this one off the list of things to do unless you just have nothing else.

GUESSING GAME: Just about a month ago I went to a party where the kids had to guess how many _________ (candies) were in the bowl and number that came closest won the entire bowl full of candy (minus the glass bowl!) and this was a huge success!! Everyone loves Candy, consider this one for your next party or event.

PAPER AIRPLANES: at the same party where they had the guessing game full of candy they also had the idea to give each child a piece of colored paper and then show them how to make a paper airplane. Each child made their paper airplane (and I recommend they write their name on their airplane) and then the contest began! Standing at the end of the hallway, each child flew their airplane and the one flying the farthest would be the winner and win the prize......this was a huge success and I don't remember how many turns at flying each child was allowed, but the final outcome was FUN and LAUGHTER and someone winning a prize to a large round of applause! This is a great idea, just keep the kids away from the flying area and all should have a great time!

COOKIE DECORATING: here is another idea where everybody wins. Everyone gets to create their own design on the cookies and all cookies are put on the baking sheet for a picture which Mom took after all were done. After the photo was made and Mom had her picture then all could dig in and eat their creations! Everybody wins and everybody smiles.

WAND MAKING: if you want something that coordinates with the Magic theme then the wands are a perfect idea because they cost very little and provide a mass amount of fun when the kids all are waving their home-made wand at the show and the rabbit appears and poof ....they all have something to add to their goody bag that they created and can take home.

CARD TRICKS: another idea that goes with the Magic theme are the card tricks. The Dollar Tree sells packs that have 2 decks of cards for $1 and I don't know anyone who can beat that, and the cards are perfect for teaching a couple of card tricks to the kids. You can get a book or look up card tricks on the net or you can just have me teach the card tricks after the show! I have card tricks suitable for any ages starting at age 4 year olds and going up. Just allow a little time for this in the party agenda and I'm happy to do it because it is something I love doing! (at no extra charge) or you can look up some simple card tricks on the net and let them perform later in the party time permitting! this idea has been a great success as every child loves Magic!

Ok this is the spot where I have to stop, but will add more ideas to this section as they come along and if you have any ideas you can add them into the comment section....everyone loves a fun party!

More later!
Rod
www.rodneykelley.com

Nolan's Cheddar Video - I want some!!!

2010-03-01T16:37:00.002-06:00

This should have been part of the Superbowl extravaganza,,,,,,it is that good and really catchy!!!
Posting it because everyone needs a laugh now and then !

2010 is Looking up in Nashville !!!

2010-01-17T00:19:00.003-06:00

2010 is upon us! and the new year is bringing on new things and new events ,,,thankfully this year
already is much better than last year!!!!!

If you or someone you know is having a wedding, my show is perfect for the Kids at the reception! I can entertain with the show and the balloons and also included is the chicken dance, the limbo, and other kids activities to keep the kids happy while the adults have a blast at their party!
Give the kids a great time they'll never forget! Have Magic!

Another idea that has been proposed to me is the fact that a lot of kids like to do crafts. If you are having a Birthday and would like a Magic Show and a Craft catered to your party theme I have the lady who can make that happen! The two of us will come as a package and it is at a very reasonable rate!!

Something that a lot of Moms never thought about is having your child's Birthday party at their school in their classroom. I suggested it to a couple of Mom's and got a weird reaction, but I do it ALL THE TIME !! They usually plan it so that it is towards the end of the day so most of the school work is done and the kids can leave school with a great memory! Most of the school parties last about an hour and a half with the first 45 to 60 minutes being the show and the last 30 to 45 minutes I will make balloon animals for the kids while they are celebrating with the cake and ice cream, singing, presents etc… If that idea has never crossed your mind, it happens
all the time and all of his or her classmates get to be present! (and the teachers love it because they get a deserved rest) (Trust me, they'll love it as much as the kids!)

Thank you for reading! and I will see you at a show soon!

Rodney
www.rodneykelley.com
(615) 226-9041

A Great Way to Start the Year!

2010-01-16T13:45:00.002-06:00

A great way to start the year! Yeah! It is just a cool thing to have a group of kids laughing at something that you do! 40 kids laughing at the same time makes you laugh whether you actually find it funny or not! The kids are just thrilled to even hear the word "Magic" and I remember when I was a child ....just the thought of a Magic Show was the thrill of the week! When I was a child I never had a magician come to my birthday party but I do remember that any time a magician came to the mall near our house my Mom would take me and drop me off so I could attend the show, and I COULDN'T WAIT!! just as the kids today can't wait to see the show. Currently, I have some new tricks that I am practicing with and testing to see if they will be good enough to put into the show, you know, try this trick here and try this trick there to see what kind of reaction you get. You just never know how an audience will react until you try it Live! and 2010 is the year to start trying some tricks that are long overdue. But, there is one thing that you can count on, once you try the trick in front of a group of children, they will let you know if they like it! and you won't have to ask! I have more to write about some new ideas and will include that in the next post....hope things are well on your end!

Thank you to the kids for laughing and having fun and making my day !!!!!!

Thank you to all of the teachers for making my work a whole lot easier!

Really, really had a blast and will look forward to visiting you again soon!

Rodney

www.rodneykelley.com

Snowy Days Ahead.....

2010-01-11T08:16:00.006-06:00

Snowy days have moved some of the show dates and have caused the kids to miss some school (no apologies there!) but am hoping to get back to business as usual and hoping that everyone is staying safe. The very first event that I went to lead me into the snowy night and all was fine with me but saw a lady fall on the "Hidden Ice" or some people call it the "Black Ice" and everyone talks about it and now I know it is there! You don't see all of the ice that is out there when the temperature is soooooo low....on the night that I was out the temps were around 18 degrees. I helped the lady up to get to her car and was just praying that this was not a warning that the snowy season has more! After getting her into her car I delicately walked across the snow and ice getting into my car, only had one slick spot and my car immediately went back into driving normal mode.

This shows how my street looked but the rest of Nashville really had very little problems with the snow or ice, just really looked to me like a reason for the kids to have a few days off! I remember days off because of snow and these are days that are very much deserved by most kids, and I hope they had fun having Hot Chocolate relaxing with friends! (I know I did back in the days!)

Just sitting here trying to remember if February is worse than January as far as temps and snow, but, can't remember so I will go back to taking it day to day and enjoying !!

Still have some photos not posted from the December shows! I am behind on my posting (isn't everyone) but can take a moment to just post A FEW OF THE REASONS I AM IN THIS BUSINESS!!!

HAPPY KIDS!

These guys stopped stabbing each other with swords long enough to pose for this photo....

a photo taken at one of my favorite show locations,,,,,,the West Nashville Moose Lodge hires me every year 2 or 3 times per year and they are such a fun group!!! Can I tell you how much fun they are! Yeah!

Wish I would have taken more photos at Kennedy's party as the kids there were having a blast!!!!

Maybe some day soon I'll have some video to accompany the photos!

Even the older kids are having fun these days!!!!

If you have a party and want to have a fun, exciting show that gets the audience laughing call me!!

Until then, stay safe in this snow and keep the coffee hot!!!

Rodney

www.rodneykelley.com

Happy New Year !!! Yippee

2009-12-30T14:18:00.002-06:00

As the New Year comes upon us I sincerely hope that you are planning and looking forward to a Wonderful 2010 ! I see great things in the future....as a matter of fact I am planning on it !! Working on the New Year plan for the show and for other things has been a good start but I am also looking back at some unfinished business from 2009. My Step-mother is not doing very well and that is in the back of my mind the entire time that I am thinking about moving on. She is currently in a coma and this is just breaking my heart. Each day I spend a certain amount of time thinking about this very thing and it just makes a little piece of you break when you think about it......as of today she is trying to open her eyes,,,,,that is to say her eye lids are moving and reacting to audial stimulus. When she hears voices she is trying,,,,,,,,,,,,,makes me think of how truly lucky that I am!!!!! The New Year is moving quite well all except for this setback but in the back of my mind I am also thinking about the fact that she is getting better and not worse, that in itself is good news!!

So take care of and spend time with the people that you love.....

Her recovery is only a prayer away........

I look forward to seeing each and every one of you and laughing with you at a show soon!!!!

Until that time, Happy New Year and may the New Year bring you lots of Magic!!

Rodney

www.rodneykelley.com

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL AND TO ALL A GOOD NIGHT!

2009-12-21T15:14:00.006-06:00

Merry Christmas to All and to All a Good Night!!!!!

and here's wishing you a FANTASTIC 2010 !!!!

http://www.rodneykelley.com/

Max and Sadie make the blog again!!!

2009-12-05T00:07:00.001-06:00

My Mom gave me a wonderful pre-Christmas present and I am really having fun playing with it!! This camera not only takes 10mg photos that are awesome and clear, but it also takes video! and the video loads directly up to You Tube without any editing or changing of any kind. Really easy to upload a video of a show or your pets or anything ,,,,and just look at the clarity of the video. I think if I have a 4 Gig card in the camera I can take about an hour of video that is high quality. Hopefully I can work my way over to getting video from the show, would love to have a funny experience on video, and that would be easy to do during a show! but how do I work the video and the show at the same time? I'll just have to find some innocent bystander and see if they will help ....

My two dogs are so much fun and such a wonderful pair that my first video ever taken with the new camera is above and is taken of them at their best, when they are getting treats! Will have to get them on video in some other situations which may prove fun for video. With a ton of Christmas parties coming up will have to try and get some videos then. This camera came at the right time because now I am just starting to get into the Christmas spirit! Hope that you are getting the spirit too!

Rodney

www.rodneykelley.com

Thanksgiving Blessings were wonderful !!

2009-11-29T20:20:00.005-06:00

Thanksgiving is always such a wonderful Holiday! Really, Really does not have anything to do with the time of the year because I would soooooo much rather have the summer time here and outdoor parties, picnics, you get the picture, it's just the holiday Thanksgiving that is truly the best! Some do not see it the way that I do and I applaud them for seeing things different but maybe if they see why I like it, maybe they will turn around. Can you even imagine a holiday where you sit and eat wonderful, magnificent food and then watch football all day? Is there any better day? Could anyone ask for more? That is in a nutshell my entire reason for loving the holiday. Do I have to have more of a reason than that? I don't think so!

If you do Thanksgiving with people (or relatives) and you don't enjoy your day...then STOP having Thanksgiving with those people!!!!!!! If you continue in a course that you do not enjoy, then it is your own fault because I truly had a wonderful day with my relatives and could not have asked for more !!!!!!!!!

Look at these faces !!! Could I have had a bad time with these ladies?! I don't think so!!!!!!
My mom, Anita, is in the pink and my niece Chloe is in the purple, and the two ladies on the bottom row are my Aunt Becky (left) and my sister Rhonda! and I really should send a special "Thank you" to them and the others who made my Thanksgiving a blast!

We ate at the Manchester in Middletown, Ohio and the meal was just right! I ate way too much, but that is to be expected and will continue for as long as I celebrate the occasion! The football was also just like the meal "Just Right"! and I loved the visit back in Ohio!

So really, now that you have heard my story, think about your Thanksgiving and plan accordingly for next year, make it the very best that it can be and you won't be sorry!

Thanks for reading !

Rodney
www.rodneykelley.com

Christmas at Opryland Theme Park, "A Gift For Santa" 1997 Live Show Nashville TN

2009-11-16T21:10:00.001-06:00

Now is just about the time when Opryland Theme Park would be in rehearsals full schedule and I would already have my show done and rehearsed and would be putting up Christmas decorations at home so that I could be getting in the mood for Christmas.....It was always right around the 18th of November that the "Christmas in the Park" celebration would start, if not the 18th, then the closest Saturday to the 18th would be opening weekend. For the rehearsals I would drive in to the theater and see everyone alive with the Christmas spirit and in their costumes training for whatever they would be doing during Christmas. A lot of the vendors would be driving in and stocking and decorating their shops with trees, tinsel and Santa's everywhere. You could walk around the park and smell the wood burning as they were getting the new employees trained to make the coffee and the hot chocolate and the other items that would be sold.

Most of the time, I would buy a new coffee maker and a new heater for the back of the theater and then stock up on hot chocolate and coffee so that I could serve the guests that would come visit after the shows. During Christmas I had a basket that sat on the table in my dressing room and I would fill it with candy canes, red and green M&M's, and other sweets for any children that would visit after shows.

Bags and bags of Christmas decorations had to be packed into my trunk to be taken to the theater as I always wanted to add decorations to what the park had already put up. The day before "Christmas at Opryland" would open we would have a "dry run through" or we would pretend that we were open and everyone would do their job and see what shows still needed rehearsal and what employees still needed more training. The "dry run through" was always really very neat in a way, the upper management would walk around the park and order things and go see shows, while at the same time taking notes on what things needed more decorations or what needed to be improved upon. My show was one of the lucky ones, some years they would walk to my theater and just say "Thank You" for being a part of the Christmas program and I wouldn't have to do a run through of the show at all. Other years the management team would come through and surprise me by showing up on opening day and watching the show with a theater full of people!
Either way I felt very lucky to be included and really felt that the management trusted me enough that they didn't need to "approve" the show I had put together for Christmas.

My direct supervisor for "Christmas in the Park" was Stan Stout, and he was the very best !!! He always greeted you with a huge smile, looking like a million dollars, and always had some kind of Thank You gift to let you know that he appreciated your hard work!! I'm not really sure what happened to Stan after the park closed but really enjoyed working with and for him during the Christmas shows!

Directly across from my theater was the "American Music Theater" which was playing the show "A Gift For Santa" and that show was always very excellent! thus that is why the video is included. Really miss the good ole' days with all of the above mentioned, but yet at the same time am still looking forward to our Christmas as it is now.

This early I have not put up any decoration and probably won't until later in December but am still looking forward to Santa coming and bringing good Football games for us to watch after we are stuffed with Mom's cooking!!!!

Thanks for reading!
Rodney
www.rodneykelley.com

One Eyed Monster on the Loose!

2009-11-11T00:59:00.002-06:00

Have spent the day inside because that's just what had to be done....sometimes you just have to take care of business and answer calls, clean, and you know the rest......and that was today's order of events. After the cleaning and the misc. was done I decided to have some fun and just sit down and listen to some music while making this wonderful "one eyed monster". His arms have to be equal on each side and if the balloon goes through and there is not enough room to make the other arm equal size, then you have to start the arm part all over. OK, I had to start the arm part of this monster over about 5 times and then I learned not to fill the balloon too full of air. The whole trick with this balloon is making it in enough time to satisfy a child who is waiting for it, so this will take some practice and then it will be ready to go to parties with me. For right now this "One Eyed Monster" is sitting on my desk, and because of the cleaning today, I can see the top of it!!! I especially love this little guy and really, really, love him because of the lime green color! The lime green color in this little guy almost has a "magic" all its' own, not really sure why, but maybe my parents were secretly aliens and my home planet where I was born is this color!! Look for this monster in a show near you !!

This is a photo from the last party on Saturday night and WOW was it a lot of Fun!!!! Karen and her friends had the best time (and so did I !!) celebrating her Birthday!!! She had a sleepover with food, magic, laughter and a bunch of really great friends!! The Magic part of the evening went somewhere around an hour (probably more) and then after the show we had balloon hats for everyone, and each person getting a balloon hat was crowned by the Queen of the Party (Karen) ........each person crowned was given a title and a kingdom to rule and all was well in Birthday Land !!!! After each was crowned, we had some magic lessons and learned a few card tricks! Thank you again to Karen and her family and friends for making me feel so very welcome to the party !!!!!

www.rodneykelley.com

Children say the darndest things....

2009-11-09T18:32:00.000-06:00

A 1^st grade school teacher had twenty-six students in her class. She presented ,each child in her classroom the 1st half of a well-known proverb and asked them to come up with the remainder of the proverb. It's hard to believe these were actually done by first graders. Their insight may surprise you. While reading, keep in mind that these are first-graders, 6-year-olds, because the last one is a classic!

1.	Don't change horses	until they stop running...
2.	Strike while the	bug is close.
3.	It's always darkest before	Daylight Saving Time.
4.	Never underestimate the power of	termites.
5.	You can lead a horse to water but	How?
6.	Don't bite the hand that	looks dirty.
7.	No news is	impossible
8.	A miss is as good as a	Mr.
9.	You can't teach an old dog new	Math
10.	If you lie down with dogs, you'll	stink in the morning.
11.	Love all, trust	Me.
12.	The pen is mightier than the	pigs..
13.	An idle mind is	the best way to relax.
14.	Where there's smoke there's	pollution.
15.	Happy the bride who	gets all the presents.
16.	A penny saved is	not much.
17.	Two's company, three's	the Musketeers..
18.	Don't put off till tomorrow what	you put on to go to bed...
19.	Laugh and the whole world laughs with you, cry and	You have to blow your nose.
20.	There are none so blind as	Stevie Wonder..
21.	Children should be seen and not	spanked or grounded.
22.	If at first you don't succeed	get new batteries.
23.	You get out of something only what you	See in the picture on the box
24.	When the blind lead the blind	get out of the way.
25.	A bird in the hand	is going to poop on you...

And the WINNER and last one!

26.

Better late than

Pregnant

Children really are the best aren't they!!!!!!!!!

Thanks for reading !!

Rodney

www.rodneykelley.com

This is a beautiful story about a bagpiper who was late for a funeral.

2009-11-09T18:06:00.002-06:00

As a bagpiper, I was asked by a funeral director to play at a graveside service for a homeless man who had no family or friends. The funeral was to be held at a cemetery in the remote countryside and this man would be the first to be laid to rest there.

As I was not familiar with the backwoods area, I became lost and being a typical man, did not stop for directions. I finally arrived an hour late. I saw the backhoe and the crew who were eating lunch but the hearse was nowhere in sight.

I apologized to the workers for my tardiness and stepped to the side of the open grave where I saw the vault lid already in place.

I assured the workers I would not hold them up for long but this was the proper thing to do. The workers gathered around, still eating their lunch. I played out my heart and soul.

As I played the workers began to weep. I played and I played like I'd never played before, from Going Home and The Lord is My Shepherd to Flowers of the Forest. I closed the lengthy session with Amazing Grace and walked to my car.

As I was opening the door and taking off my coat, I overheard one of the workers saying to another, Oh my goodness, I have never seen nothin' like that before and I've been putting in septic tanks for twenty years.

Thanks for reading!

Rodney

www.rodneykelley.com

Stress Management Technique

2009-11-05T10:25:00.000-06:00

Just in case you are having a rough day, here is a stress management technique recommended in all the latest Psychological journals.

The funny thing is that it really does work and will make you smile...

1. Picture yourself lying on your belly on a warm rock that hangs out over a
crystal clear stream.

2. Picture yourself with both your hands dangling in the cool running water..

3. Birds are sweetly singing in the cool mountain air.

4. No one knows your secret place.

5. You are in total seclusion from that hectic place called the world.

6. The soothing sound of a gentle water fall fills the air with a cascade of
serenity.

7. The water is so crystal clear that you can easily make out the face of the person you are holding underwater.

There!! See? It really does work. You're smiling already. Feel free to forward this if you know others who might benefit from this technique.

sorry just had to laugh at this!

Rod

www.rodneykelley.com

Halloween Night !!! Frozen Finger Syndrome

2009-11-01T18:55:00.000-06:00

My first show on Halloween was a birthday party and really a lot of fun!! The family was soooooooooooo very nice that I wish I could have stayed longer and made more balloons and just had a great time with them!!! but I had another event and they had the regular Halloween activities to attend so everyone was off to their respective paths.

My path led me to an outside event where I would be making balloons and doing a show for a Halloween event where the public was invited......I was very much looking forward to it as the prospect of seeing everyone in their costumes and chatting about each costume etc.....the night started out really great! The kids didn't seem to mind waiting a short time to get their balloons and the crowd was not so large that I couldn't take care of each customer and make some of the larger balloon items that some of the kids wanted.....of course some of them wanted the simple things, like the sword and the dog but that is ok too, as long as everyone is happy!!
As the night went on I had to stop and do a show, the night had gotten so cold that some of the kids and parents were wanting to leave because of the temperature. For the very first time I started to make balloons after the show and the temperature had went down so quickly that my fingers were frozen. I only had a small number of kids waiting for the balloons after the show but, with frozen fingers I couldn't tie a balloon !!!!!
I had to go into a diner that was sitting right next to our location to warm my fingers enough to make the final balloons needed to make the night end happy. Want to send out a special Thank you to a very nice man who brought me a warm cup of coffee to try and help the situation. He could not have been any nicer ,,,,,
This will be the first time that this has happened to me....frozen fingers that can't even tie a balloon closed, let alone tie it into a shape.....
When I finally got into the car at night's end the temperature gauge was showing 42 degrees which really explained why my fingers were in the shape they were in !!! Had a great night other than that and will keep you posted on the next event!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN TO ALL !!!!!

2009-10-31T11:52:00.000-05:00

HERE'S HOPING THE GOBLINS GIVE YOU MORE TREATS THAN TRICKS!!!!

AN ACTUAL CRAIG'S LIST PERSONALS AD

2009-10-31T11:48:00.000-05:00

To the Guy Who Tried to Mug Me in Downtown Savannah night before last.

Date: 2009-05-27, 1:43 a.m. E.S.T.

I was the guy wearing the black Burberry jacket that you demanded that I hand over, shortly after you pulled the knife on me and my girlfriend, threatening our lives. You also asked for my girlfriend's purse and earrings. I can only hope that you somehow come across this rather important message.

First, I'd like to apologize for your embarrassment; I didn't expect you to actually crap in your pants when I drew my pistol after you took my jacket. The evening was not that cold, and I was wearing the jacket for a reason. My girlfriend had just bought me that Kimber Model 1911 .45 ACP pistol for my birthday, and we had picked up a shoulder holster for it that very evening. Obviously you agree that it is a very intimidating weapon when pointed at your head ... isn't it?!

I know it probably wasn't fun walking back to wherever you'd come from with that brown sludge in your pants. I'm sure it was even worse walking bare-footed since I made you leave your shoes, cell phone, and wallet with me. [That prevented you from calling or running to your buddies to come help mug us again]..

After I called your mother or "Momma" as you had her listed in your cell, I explained the entire episode of what you'd done. Then I went and filled up my gas tank as well as those of four other people in the gas station, -- on your credit card. The guy with the big motor home took 150 gallons and was extremely grateful!

I gave your shoes to a homeless guy outside Vinnie Van Go Go's, along with all the cash in your wallet. [That made his day!]

I then threw your wallet into the big pink "pimp mobile" that was parked at the curb ... after I broke the windshield and side window and keyed the entire driver's side of the car.

Later, I called a bunch of phone sex numbers from your cell phone. Ma Bell just now shut down the line, although I only used the phone for a little over a day now, so what 's going on with that? Earlier, I managed to get in two threatening phone calls to the DA's office and one to the FBI, while mentioning President Obama as my possible target.

The FBI guy seemed really intense and we had a nice long chat (I guess while he traced your number etc.).

In a way, perhaps I should apologize for not killing you ... but I feel this type of retribution is a far more appropriate punishment for your threatened crime. I wish you well as you try to sort through some of these rather immediate pressing issues, and can only hope that you have the opportunity to reflect upon, and perhaps reconsider, the career path you've chosen to pursue in life. Remember, next time you might not be so lucky.Have a good day!

Thoughtfully yours,

Alex

P.S.. Remember this motto ... An armed society makes for a more civil society!

Thanks for reading!! Rodney
www.rodneykelley.com

Thursday October 29th,,,,, Shows, Rain and Miracle Whip!

2009-10-30T05:03:00.003-05:00

Am such a Miracle Whip fan that I had to show this!! It's almost the only thing I put on salad anymore, and burgers are not the same without a shovel full of Miracle Whip and could probably go on with a hundred other uses for this marvelous dessert, but if there is any left I always have an extra large spoon handy!!!!!!

It's been raining here in Nashville for now about (feels like a month) 3 or 4 days (correct me if I'm wrong) but the ground is sloshed and the roads still have standing water on them and my beagles are enjoying the inside time by relaxing. The shows today that I had were outside and really was not sure how the kids were going to react....you know, kids have a lot of energy and with the rain sometimes the running time is cut and the playing time turns to null! but today they were all SMILES! not sure what was going on but despite the dreary, dismal surroundings and sky, everything today went great!! This may sound a bit cliche but everything turns out great when you have that positive attitude and today they all had a smile also! Maybe it was the fact that school in some areas got out at noon, and maybe they were just high on life, like we all should be!

but for whatever reason things went great.....

The positive attitude reflected on me and made me feel better all day, despite the day and my allergies causing other problems. Very quickly I forgot about the sniffling and sneezing and got on with the happiness at hand and something at my second event today really perked me up into feeling really great. During a balloon event, I was standing making a multitude of balloons (and boy was I making a lot of balloons at this event!) and chatting with the kids as they came up in line. Each child was wearing their Halloween costume so that gave me something to chit chat about and right in the middle of the evening, a man asked me,

"How long you been doing this?"

and I made a joke and answered, "I think I started about 5:30".

After the laughter had died down, he explained that he wanted to know how many years

that I had been doing the balloon making.

To that question I answered, "I started learning to make balloons in 1986 or so".

His answer to me "You really like what you are doing don't you !!".

when I answered "YES"

his response really hit me hard in the face when he said,

"I can tell you really enjoy doing this balloon work, not a lot of people I know actually enjoy their job".

I quickly said, "I'm not a rich man, but I do enjoy my job"

His answer, "Money has nothing to do with it, when you wake up and can do what you were meant to do, life really is good, don't think about the money,

JUST ENJOY YOUR LIFE".

From that moment on I realized that he really was hitting the arrow right into the target! and the SMILES that were on the faces of the kids today suddenly had hit me, and I felt like a million bucks! Even on that dreary day.....just a word of truth that I had not swallowed in quite some time made my day !!!!!

Oh I know that as a general rule everyone theoretically was supposed to enjoy their job, but I REALLY DO ENJOY MY JOB and was thrilled to be reminded! I don't know what the moral of the story is, but I can tell you one thing, we have rain, rain and more rain scheduled for the next 3 or 4 days and I can promise you that it's not going to get me down!!!!!

I'm just going to enjoy life!!!

Mexicali Grill !!! Come Visit Soon !!

2009-10-29T11:45:00.000-05:00

Really, Really met some wonderful kids and adults out at Mexicali Grill this past Sunday and all of them had a wonderful time ! The last Sunday in November will be my next appearance there and if you have not eaten their food.........you are the one missing out, have never ever had anything but excellence coming from their kitchen !!! Plus this photo ....she was just wonderful and when all of the other kids did not want to volunteer, she smiled and came on up to help amaze everyone....even the older kids thought that she was cool when she made our Hannah the dove appear.....

not only do I perform a show there but after and before the show I am making balloons for the kids so that they have something to do while the adults are busy enjoying EVERY BITE !!!!!

SUNDAY NOVEMBER 29TH, 5:30 to 8:00 PM

the last Sunday in November will be my next appearance at Mexicali and I hope you will be there also!!!!

Mexicali Grill

www.mexicali-grill.com

(615) 771-0717

in the Cool Springs area near the mall....

Brentwood United Methodist Church Fall Festival October 23, 2009

2009-10-29T11:30:00.002-05:00

Thank you to all who came to the show and the event! Was really cool to check in with a lot of people that I haven't seen in quite a while !! Has it been a year already!! This is really one of my favorite events for the Halloween season because everyone is wearing their costume and looking good and scary! If this event doesn't get you in the mood for Halloween, I don't know what will! On top of all that they have really some of the coolest things going on in the back including all kinds of different rides and food! Yes, and of course the candy is there too!

The little Mermaid that helped me in the show was absolutely the cutest and right on top of things as far as being the perfect assistant......wonder if she has a booking agent?

The laughter and the fun is what it is all about and that is what we got with this group, plenty of stuff for the adults to laugh at also!!

To see all of the photos from this show click on the gallery to the right...

Don't blink you guys! Hold your eyes open if you have to but don't blink or you will miss this one....Here's hoping everyone has a Ghostly Halloween!!!

Halloween is Here !!!

2009-10-25T11:56:00.000-05:00

A cabbie picks up a Nun in San Francisco . She gets into the cab, and notices that the VERY handsome cab driver won't stop staring at her.

She asks him why he is staring. He replies: 'I have a question to ask, but I don't want to offend you.'

She answers, ' My son, you cannot offend me. When you're as old as I am and have been a nun as long as I have, you get a chance to see and hear just about everything. I'm sure that there's nothing you could say or ask that I would find offensive.'

'Well, I've always had a fantasy to have a nun kiss me.'

She responds, 'Well, let's see what we can do about that: #1, you have to be single and #2, you must be Catholic.'

The cab driver is very excited and says, 'Yes, I'm single and Catholic!'

'OK' the nun says. 'Pull into the next alley.'

The nun fulfills his fantasy with a kiss that would make a hooker blush.

But when they get back on the road, the cab driver starts crying.

'My dear child,' said the nun, 'Why are you crying?'

'Forgive me but I've sinned. I lied and I must confess; I'm married and I'm Jewish.'

The nun says, 'That's OK. My name is Kevin and I'm going to a Halloween party.'

Series of Opryland Theme Park Videos scheduled for YouTube

2009-10-18T21:41:00.002-05:00

The above video is the beginning of a series of videos that I will be putting up on YouTube!
Do you miss Opryland Theme Park as much as I do? If you have a favorite show and have only memories of the show, you may be in luck....over the next few months, I will be editing and placing Opryland Shows up for the world to see....!! To some this may not even sound exciting......but to others this will be a welcome addition to their Opryland Memories.....
A friend has graciously given me several Opryland videos of live performances and I really just want them to be on the internet for all to see and remember our beloved theme park....I have not counted the videos and am not going to count them, just want to watch and enjoy them, and then edit them for all to see.
The days of fun at Opryland Theme Park may be gone, but the memories will live on forever and I intend on doing my part to keep those memories alive!
Thanks for reading this blog and keep checking back or subscribe to see the rest of them as they are posted............Rodney

Daycee's Party - Loads of Fun! Gordonsville, TN

2009-10-18T20:45:00.001-05:00

Things could not have been more fun at Daycee's party and wow all the things available to do were wonderful! The typical party has cake and a pinata, but Daycee's party had much more to offer!! For starters they had Cotton Candy, Popcorn, Hot Dogs, and Nachos to choose from !

The kids had a blast and were as happy as could be! (who wouldn't be with all the food choices!) The adults were happy too.....

This is something that I had not seen ever at a party....you put your head in the lions mouth and get your photo made....this used to be an item that would show up at carnivals or festivals but this photo was made especially for the party!

and get ready for more fun because Daycee's mom even bought "Silly String" for everyone to have a good ole' fashioned silly string fight!!! not sure who won fight but I know that everyone had a great time !

and the star of the show was the perfect hostess during the whole party, dressed in purple she led everyone to the fun!

Happy Birthday to our wonderful guest of honor Daycee!!!!! Looking forward to next years party! and what will Daycee's clever Mom plan for next year!!?? Thanks for reading,

Rodney

Belle Meade Plantation - Fall Festival! October 10, 2009

2009-10-11T20:46:00.003-05:00

Really hope that everyone had as much fun as I did at the Belle Meade Plantation Fall Festival !!!
My shows were set for 2pm and 4pm,
they were a blast!
but there were a lot of other things happening also!
take a look and see the fun that you missed!
The autumn feel in the air was a wonderful vacation from the heat of the summer and everyone seemed to be fine with the weather.....
Vendors had everything for sale that you could ever imagine...
The kids are the ones who seemed to thrive in this sea of rides, games and fun foods!
Truthfully it really reminded me of the ole timey carnivals that we had back in my hometown of Trenton, Ohio!

If you like funnel cakes, hot dogs, hamburgers, sno-cones, cotton candy, fresh lemonade, popcorn, ice cream, hot chocolate and coffee then they had you covered....If there were other items available I didn't see them.

Plenty of things available to the adults also, as you can see the vendors were selling a little bit of everything and quite a few things that you don't see at a regular mall. If you noticed above they even had 4 Porsche cars, big attention getters, for sale right in the middle of the grounds. The indoor areas of the plantation horse stables were filled with antiques for sale and some were just there for your viewing pleasure. Although the items indoors were a bit pricey, they were also items that you just aren't going to see on a regular store shelf, Very Nice Antiques!

There were two very wonderful young ladies who came to visit with me after the show and they loved my doves and rabbit. They had a blast holding and petting the animals and just at the right time I snapped this photo. These two were not only extra polite but they were very gentle with the animals and very complimentary of the show. I took more photos of them but this photo shows how absolutely much fun they were having simply playing with the animals! What wonderful children simply enjoying life!!!

If you didn't get to go to the festival this year, no worries, they'll have it next year around the same time in October! You can come and see all the activities and visit the Ventriloquist Crystal Miller, I enjoyed her show very much! You can also come and see the Magic Show, I hear it was also pretty good!!

Thanks for reading ,,
Rodney

www.rodneykelley.com

Hold on to the Ones You Love!!

2009-10-09T18:12:00.002-05:00

To realize
The value of a sister/brother
Ask someone
Who doesn't have one.

To realize
The value of ten years:
Ask a newly
Divorced couple.

To realize
The value of four years:
Ask a graduate.

To realize
The value of one year:
Ask a student who
Has failed a final exam.

To realize
The value of nine months:
Ask a mother who gave birth to a stillborn.

To realize
The value of one month:
Ask a mother
Who has given birth to
A premature baby.

To realize
The value of one week:
Ask an editor of a weekly newspaper.

To realize
The value of one minute:
Ask a person
Who has missed the train, bus or plane..

To realize
The value of one-second:
Ask a person
Who has survived an accident.

Time waits for no one.

Treasure every moment you have.

You will treasure it even more when
You can share it with someone special.

To realize the value of a friend or family member:

LOSE ONE.

The origin of this letter is unknown,
But it brings good luck to everyone who passes it on.

Remember....

Hold on tight to the ones you love!
Thanks for reading!
Rodney
www.rodneykelley.com

Tennessee Breast Cancer Coalition - Dancing For A Cure - October 15, 2009

2009-10-04T19:42:00.000-05:00

Hello,,,,,

and thank you for looking at the blog.......

usually my posts are fun or happy, but this one is quite serious.

A personal friend of mine is involved with the

Tennessee Breast Cancer Coalition

and they need your help.

www.tbcc.org/

Click the link to read more about it.....

We need for this event to be full!!! Pass this information to anyone you think might be interested !!!

Thank You in advance for your help!

Rodney

www.rodneykelley.com

NICU Reunion: Centennial Hospital Nashville, Tennessee

2009-10-02T23:42:00.003-05:00

NICU Reunion: Centennial Hospital Nashville Tennessee

Sunday September 13, 2009

The Wizard of Oz

is the theme for the event and Dorothy and the Tinman were around to greet all !!

all of the children had a great time and facepainters, balloon artists and photo making were also involved...

You could get your photo made with this giant Wizard of Oz photo (seen above) and the other photo opportunity was with Glenda the Good Witch (they are both beautiful photo opportunities!)

I was there doing magic and just plain ole' having fun!

Sean T. Hughes was the balloon artist

Anthony Lena was the other balloon artist and not sure you can see him in this photo...

and there is Stacy Jo doing the face painting....

and Katie Tucker was the other facepainter that everyone enjoyed...

I brought the rabbit and the birds for the kids to pet while they were waiting in line to get their picture made...

I was in my position doing the Magic and not sure about the other activities

but everyone had a great time !!!

we'll look forward to doing it again next year !!!!

Rodney

www.rodneykelley.com

Riverwood Church of Christ Show

2009-10-01T14:50:00.003-05:00

The Riverwood Church of Christ

McGavock Pike

Nashville, Tennessee

Sunday September 19th, 2009

Really really had a great time doing a show for their annual Fall Festival!

Isn't it great to see everyone get together as a family and just have fun !!!

They had all kinds of games and different shows going all day, and I was one of the shows under the big top!

as you can see, here is the jumping castle and the slide...Oh and don't forget the train ride !!!

and the man running it was dressed in a conductor outfit .....

and here is the audience getting ready to watch the tumbling show.....

My show was on before the tumbling show and really had a great time with about a crowd of 50 or so members of the church. Lots of laughs by all !! Really will be looking forward to doing this event again next year! Oh and before the show was really fun making balloons for all of the kids, see you next year!!

Rodney

www.rodneykelley.com

Birthday Party Info

2009-10-01T04:39:00.000-05:00

Planning on Having a BIRTHDAY !!??

Are you ready to have a blast ??!!

For birthday Parties we usually have the magic show first.
This gives your guests a chance to laugh and get acquainted with their surroundings. The Magic Show usually lasts around 45 minutes or so and is filled with Lots of Comedy, 2 Doves and at the end a Rabbit (don't tell the kids!! Let's make it a surprise!) Each time an animal appears we give the Kids some time to come up and pet the animal and pose for a Photo,,,,We also try for Group Photos, which sometimes are very hard, but we try!
(Some photos actually turn out Frame-able!)
(the show is suitable for adults too, the parents will
get a kick out of watching the kids!)

So, after the Show the group goes to Celebrate by singing and cake or they start the Birthday Games,,,,,whichever happens, I will follow and make Balloon Sculptures while the kids are doing other activities.
By the time the other activities are done I will have made enough Balloon Sculptures to make everyone happy.

Sooo, with the Birthday Package you will receive:
A 45 to 60 Minute Magic Show (Complete with 2 doves and Rabbit)
and 60 Minutes of Balloon Sculpting.

All times are approximate, some Audiences will sit longer than others and some will only sit for 30 minutes….I try and Cater to the Children and what they want to do….Most Birthdays have under 25 Children, if there are more we can make arrangements….

This is the usual set-up for Most Parties and if you would require
something different for your Party
I AM VERY FLEXIBLE, AND CAN WORK
TO MAKE YOU HAPPY !!

If you are in Davidson County (Tennessee) or in a County touching
Davidson there are no travel charges,,,,

Total Price : $175.00

This is something your child will remember for many years to come!
Plan on having Magic at your next Party!!!!!

For Special Requests or if you just have Questions
Call Me…..

Rodney
615-226-9041

Wedding Receptions

2009-09-30T05:37:00.001-05:00

For Wedding Receptions I have found a niche that is somewhat untapped in the magic field....

Basically, I will entertain the kids in a separate room while the adults are in the main room having the toast and the cutting of the cake etc.....

For the kids I'll have a 60 minute Magic Show for them and then following the show we will have a petting zoo type atmosphere where the kids can pet the rabbit and the birds and get their picture made with them. After the show and the petting zoo I usually pull out the balloon bag and start making balloons for all of them. I'll start the balloons and while doing them I have music playing which has games on it, things like:

Chicken Dance

The Limbo

Hokey Pokey

The Macarana

etc...etc....

Basically, music for the kids that they can dance to and have fun with!!! Sometimes the best Chicken Dancer gets a larger balloon made for them, and sometimes I may even dance with them (but really I have more fun being the MC or host of the party!) Under normal circumstances I can hold the kids attention for about two and a half hours or three hours, which gives the adults plenty of time to take care of the important part of the reception!!!

For this occasion I usually charge $250, and that takes care of everything no matter how long I am there. If you are having a wedding and need entertainment for the reception call me!!

Rodney

(615) 226-9041

www.rodneykelley.com

I Can't Compete with Kids

2009-09-29T01:38:00.001-05:00

Traveling along, singing a song,,,,,
The next party took me to a wonderful home with a very short story, which leads to a laugh! and isn't the laughter a huge plus?! The kids had sat for about 30 minutes and the adults were watching about 12 boys enjoy a show filled with Magic........Everything was going as scheduled and the moment came when I was holding up a dollar bill getting ready to stick the pen through the bill. Total silence filled the room as I showed the bill on each side and right in the middle of the silence the 3 year old who was turning 4 said to the child sitting next to him....
"Have I told you about my Pee-Pee?"
My laughter went on so very long I can't remember what Mom said to the 3 year old, but it needed to be documented as one of the funniest lines I have heard a child say at a party!

One of my favorite tricks in the show has to be the rings that change color!
The kids love it, I love it, everyone applauds and compliments this simple, yet colorful effect.
As you can see by the photo, this is the position that I start in as the music begins......This particular day was one of the first times I had presented this particular trick and when reaching for the rings I hit the button to start the music a little late so I said "And now the trick with the rings"......I waited and still no music,,,,, I waited and directly in the middle of the silence, with me standing in this very position a little girl sitting in the front row leaned to her father and said "Oh Great! Now we have to sit through a trick with Toilet Seats!"

Trudging my way through the house wearing my cape (the one that goes all the way to the floor made out of crushed velvet, so heavy) 2 five year old boys sit and watch as they anxiously wait for the party to start...the Birthday Child sits with his best friend as they watch me set numerous magical looking things in different places. This party was themed "Harry Potter" and they too were dressed for it as they watched. After setting in place several items I started back to the car for one more magic box and I hear, "See I told you he is really magic! LOOK AT THAT CAPE!"

thanks for checking in! I'll have more soon!!

www.rodneykelley.com

Family Show Entertainment

2009-09-28T05:36:00.001-05:00

For 11 years I was the Magician for Opryland USA Themempark and I was proud to present a show that could be viewed by all and none to worry about the show being anything but rated G. !!!!! All shows (even a show planned for adults) are viewable by any age at any time.

When the adults are staying for the show I usually ask that you let the children sit on the floor and the adults sit in chairs around the outside. This allows for the Mom's to still be close to their child but still have the comfort of a chair with a back on it!!!

Usually for a "Family" type audience with all ages the show will go somewhere around 45 minutes with as much laughter as I can put into it ! That is the goal: MAGIC AND LAUGHTER !!

My show is perfect for churches, festivals, family gatherings, company picnics any occasion where you have an audience that is ready to laugh and be amazed !!!!

If the crowd is larger than 50 or 60 people let me know in advance and we can arrange a microphone to assure that everyone can hear properly........Looking forward to the show !!!!!

Rodney

Off to the Races !!!

2009-09-27T13:16:00.047-05:00

Orlando Kennel Club is where we stopped to have a day of races and laughter! Dad, Linda and I decided that this was something that we hadn't done in a long time .....for me, it was something that I have never done!

The thrill of watching a race that you have just bet on is really, really exciting!

But, how can you know, after looking over all of the stats, which Greyhound will be in tip top shape on that day...which Greyhound has had a great day and is ready for the chase...you can't.
Basically, you are betting on past performance, which we found out doesn't mean a thing. They could have the best performance in the world in all their past races and still come in last when you bet on them !! The betting is unlimited so really have to be careful and not .....well, we bet $2 on each Greyhound that we were betting on and that takes care of losing too much at any one given time.

Take your time betting because they will bring the dogs out and walk them and let them do any business they may have to do,,,then off to the starting point....
Really enjoyed watching them bring all of the dogs into the starting house as they are all really beautiful. After the dogs reach a certain age they are put up for adoption so that they can live out their life in a loving home.

We bet and won a little. The trip was not that expensive even when you consider the snacks and programs you have to pay for and even the betting, still not that expensive for a day of entertainment!
Dad and Linda probably won much more than I did.....but who's counting? We all cheered for whichever one of us was winning!! isn't that what it is all about? Having Fun!!

Kinda cool to add this activity to the list of things I have never done! and I have fun! Got to spend time with my family and laugh, that sounds like a great Saturday to me !!!!! Thanks for reading and Saturday was my last full day in Florida, so by the time you are reading this I will be back at my desk with business as usual.....

Special Thanks to Dad, Linda, Josh and Danielle for making my trip to Florida a WHOLE LOTTA FUN !!!!!!! I was in Florida for seven full days and regardless of what we did, we had a blast !!!!!!

www.rodneykelley.com

The Wild Part of the trip....

2009-09-25T15:56:00.030-05:00

Thursday was truly a wash for all of us as we sat and relaxed after we traveled back from Daytona Beach....there is just something wonderful about the beach and the sun that just wears you out and that is what happened to us.....

Friday found us going to the Disney Wild Kingdom Lodge where my brother Josh works...he is a Chef in their finest restaurant "JIKO".

When you walk in the front door to the lodge it is almost as if you went across the ocean on a visit to a hotel in Africa as all items on display are originally from Africa as are some of the masks and spears used in building the lodge. Really, Really impressive how every part fits right into place and has the perfect portions to make it "Oh So Comfortable"! We didn't stay the night as Dad lives just down the road so we took a tour which Josh knows everything about the lodge and restaurants (and he even gave us some facts about some of the animals in the sanctuary!) and is a perfect host! (as are my Father and Step Mother!!)

I was ever so curious to see the restaurant where my brother worked and WOW it was not disappointing! the restaurant itself is gorgeous! with the obvious African theme and the food having an African accent..the pictures will tell it all as it is beautiful inside....

It is refreshing to see someone love their work and know all about the company they work for AND be proud of their position!

A wild animal sanctuary is right in the middle of the complex with all of the buildings surrounding and sharing the view of the animals inside. If you aren't looking for it you won't notice the electric fence type device that keeps the people separate from the animals.....Josh was very quick to point out that the Ostrich has jumped the electric fence a few times, which I am sure caused quite a commotion with all watching! The Ostrich needs to be careful as they serve "wild" dishes in JIKO!!

Tomorrow should also be very exciting as we are scheduled to go to the dog track and watch the races,,,,,maybe I'll win a few bucks! maybe I'll come home with a Greyhound! Part of me misses just sitting in the balcony chairs of Daytona beach,,,but the main objective is to laugh with the family and we are definitely reaching that goal!!! More later!

www.rodneykelley.com

If You Still Hear Laughter from Daytona.........

2009-09-23T23:38:00.033-05:00

Everything has really been going smooth and we have not had to leave our Balcony Chairs very often!! Yesterday was a really great day as we stopped at the Daytona Magic Shop!! Who would go to Daytona Beach without stopping at the Daytona Magic Shop? Well, we stopped and picked up 5 or 6 really great card tricks, Yeah! will be doing them soon!! Thank you Harry for a great visit!
Traveling on down the road to the lighthouse is where we ended up visiting and having dinner....the sign below is the first thing you see at this ocean side restaurant...

I think the actual name of the restaurant was the "Lighthouse" and the food was good and the view was better....a squirrel was visiting several guests waiting for french fries and whatever else he could get and we had to oblige the young fellow,,,wish we would have gotten pictures of this squirrel that comes right down to your hand and takes whatever you give him...and we eventually ended up back at our hotel in our Balcony Chairs with the best view ever!!!!

Wednesday had us traveling to St. Augustine to visit the shops and (we opted out of visiting the Fort).....the city itself is ohh soo beautiful and filled with visitors all shopping and enjoying the atmosphere, and we certainly fit in with that crowd. They (St. Augustine) also have a lighthouse and I got a pretty good picture of it (below). The shops and the main street allowed us to see some of the local craft sellers and to get a glimpse of the worlds oldest school house and a couple of other older buildings listed on the "oldest in the US" register.....very relaxing. It was not too hot and not too crowded......perfect day spent in St. Augustine and our night found us sitting in our favorite Balcony Chairs!!!

This whole trip has been about laughing and having fun, so, we really have not done all that much.....if it involves too much work we are just not interested, but if laughter is involved, or if eating is involved, we are on top of it!

downtown St. Augustine, Florida

with about 50 shops in a row.......

tomorrow is the day we have all dread.....we leave Daytona .......Oh No.......will keep you posted

Rod

www.rodneykelley.com

Balloon Events

2009-09-22T05:38:00.001-05:00

If you have a large group and just want balloon animals for your entertainment, I can help !!
My balloons animals are simple yet effective! They take a short time to make (which means the lines go quicker) and are very much loved by all the children! A lot of churches hire me to make balloons for their fall festivals or summer carnivals. Normally I bring a cd player and the rabbit along with the balloons....the rabbit gives the kids something to do while they are waiting in line and the music also gives everyone something to listen to while waiting for their balloon. If I have a table I can place a photo book on it for the kids to look at and decide which balloon they would like to have made. The balloon making can go on for 2 to 3 hours depending upon the time of your event and your preferences. Pricing for this is really dependent upon how many balloons and how much time involved....Call for a price quote or any other questions you may have on your event.

Rodney
www.rodneykelley.com

If You Hear Laughter Coming From Daytona....

2009-09-22T00:22:00.039-05:00

Sunday was a day of flight, and very relaxing I might add!! No waiting in lines or delays or problems, just simple flying to get from point A to point B on Delta/Northwest....and our point B is Orlando yeah! then off we drove to Daytona Beach!!

As you can see the destination was very well worth it!!! A view from our hotel balcony is enough to make anyone say "WHY DIDN'T I DO THIS SOONER!!!" But better than the view I get to see and laugh with my family...!! Dad, Linda (step-mom) and I have really just been relaxing....sounds kinda crazy right? We have no plans, no schedule, no list of must do's, and no tourist brochures tempting us into any theme park, bar or museum...when we are wandering if we see something we like, we walk there, otherwise we just sit or keep wandering. How long will we be here in Daytona? Who Knows! and that really feels great!

Josh (extra cool step-brother) and his wife Danielle joined us for a couple of days and was really great to see them! Had been a very long time! and it was their idea to head on over to Bubba Gumps and do lunch ....had never even heard of the place but it sounded like something that might be worth getting out of the chair to see......Yes ,,,very much worth getting out of the chair! Lots of seafood dishes, but I had a burger.....

My step-mom is in very good spirits considering that she just had an operation on her leg and is really having trouble walking, wish I had some magical little word that I could say to make it all work smoothly again....But god love her for putting up with Dad and I finding anything and everything to laugh about and make fun of (with her sometimes being the brunt of our laughter). Yes, if it is alive or something near us, we will have something to say about it and you can bet it will be funny!

Am not really sure what tomorrow will hold for us and we have talked about going here or going there ,,,but we will only know that tomorrow....WE MAY NOT EVEN LEAVE OUR BALCONY CHAIRS!!!!

OK ,,am going to try to write some more tomorrow if I get out of my balcony chair! in the meantime if you hear laughter coming from Daytona, don't say we didn't warn you!

www.rodneykelley.com

Rolling card carrier needed!!!

2009-09-20T16:08:00.000-05:00

Have you been to Kroger lately?
Have you been to Winn Dixie lately?
Have you been to CVS lately?
If you haven't you need to catch up to the latest.....
All of the above mentioned vendors (and plenty more) have a card that you sign up for and carry with you so you can get a reduced price on everything they sell. If you don't have their card, or if you don't carry their card then you have to pay a price that is inflated above what everyone else with the card is paying. In other words, you have to be a "Member" of their club to get reduced rates. Oh it's free to be a "Member" but by filling out the information and giving them your email, address, age and phone number they can keep track of everything that you buy in a year. They know your eating habits, your buying habits and they can keep track of every "Sale" item that you purchase. Yet another "Big Brother" to look over your shoulder and keep track of what you are doing at every minute of the day? and if you buy your medications, gas, beauty products, cleaning products and photo products, they know half of what is in your house! at least half!

This doesn't necessarily bother me to no end, but it is kind of evasive to a point, and very intelligent on their end to know absolutely everything about you and your purchasing. Let's say that your neighbor came to your house for a visit and brought his clipboard, and after a proper greeting, he started taking inventory of everything in your house. Your neighbor could start taking inventory and you would politely kick him out, and consider this rude and evasive, but yet thousands of people find it perfectly fine to give Kroger and other stores this power.

Don't get me wrong, I don't hate Kroger, CVS or any other store that uses a card, just don't expect me to sign up and carry 40 or more cards in my wallet....Did you sign up for a Kroger card? If you did, how many cards are you going to carry before this whole thing turns ridiculous? How many cards are you willing to carry? You already have to have all of your information about your car (insurance, license, registration) in your wallet, and now we are asked to carry a "Member" card pertaining to every store we are going to visit in our wallet, or you won't get the "Member" discounts. Should you set up a filing system for all of your cards?

What happen to a store that just had low prices? Stores used to have low prices and they were happy you were there! and none of them kept up with all of our buying and cleaning habits, let alone how much gas we bought and what day we buy our gas.............the result......now you need a backpack just to keep up with all of the cards you have to carry so that "Big Brother" can keep up with you! Well it's OK, cause "Big Brother" will know that you need a backpack and he will have them on sale!!!! and he'll know what price to put them on and what day you will be there to buy yours! Maybe they will make a rolling card carrier like all of these carry on bags that are available....

Well, I'm not "Big Brother" and I don't know your spending habits so I can't make that call.

www.rodneykelley.com

About Rodney

2009-09-14T19:32:00.023-05:00

Nashville Magician Rodney Kelley spent 11 years
performing at OPRYLAND USA Themepark

and Hotel in Nashville!

Rodney has been entertaining our Men and

Women in the Armed Forces and has traveled to

40 Countries in the last 10 years and received

5 "Excellence in Entertainment" Awards
from the Department of Defense!

His Magic has been featured on
AMERICA'S FUNNIEST VIDEOS TWICE!!
If you have an Audience that is ready to
LAUGH and be AMAZED,
call Rodney! 615-226-9041

Show Dates !!!!

2009-09-11T12:49:00.042-05:00

Any Date listed in Red is open to the public!

September 19, 2009 Riverwood Church of Christ Nashville, Tennessee -- 12:00 Show

October 10, 2009 Belle Meade Plantation
October 23, 2009 Brentwood United Methodist 6pm and 7pm shows

October 25, 2009 Mexicali Grill -- www.Mexicali-Grill.com

October 31, 2009 Trunk or Treat !! Gallatin, Tennessee-- 5pm in front of City Hall

November 29, 2009 Mexicali Grill -- www.Mexicali-Grill.com

2010 SCHEDULE
January 8, 2010        Percy Priest Elementary School
January 12, 2010    Mt. Juliet Church of Christ Daycare
January 13, 2010    Goodpasture School
January 15, 2010    Crockett Elementary School-- PTO Meeting
February 6th, 2010 Cumberland Presbyterian Church-- Boy Scout Banquet

Some specifics to help you plan your party...

2009-09-10T06:00:00.005-05:00

OK you are ready to plan the party and you need to have a least 2 hours to do everything ...if you have a lot of games and are feeding the kids, you may need 3 hours for the event....If the party is less than 2 hours you won't have time for everything, and this is your child's special day, give it enough time.

Where will you have the party? If you have a large enough game room, great room or living room then you are in business. If you would prefer to have the party somewhere else to spare your white carpet the agony you may try several different options:

your church

community center

a park or picnic area (with cover)

your backyard (weather permitting)

YMCA (some have special packages available)

some local stores have a party room available

If you want, the balloons that I make can be given as party favors....or if you are giving a bag of favors, if you include a deck of cards I'll teach all of the kids a couple of magic tricks with the cards after the show.

If you run out of games or things for the kids to do,,,I will have the Chicken Dance, the Limbo, Macarena, musical chairs, special day parade etc...I always carry a cd with about 8 party dances on it and I use it often!! The kids love it and the mothers have a moment to get things in order.

Other options for you to consider are what else to have and a pinata is very popular or you may want a jumping house for the kids. Kids love snacks, and several companies here in Nashville offer popcorn carts, cotton candy machines, hot dog carts, or you could have cookies that the kids get to decorate. These are merely suggestions to get your mind thinking. I have seen all of them done successfully which is why I list them here.

I will be adding more notes to this page as they come to me...Hope these help!

Contact Information

2009-09-10T05:00:00.004-05:00

Contact Info for Rodney

email kelleyro@hotmail.com

phone (615) 226-9041

(615) 423-2636

www.rodneykelley.com

www.nashvilleticketsandevents.com

www.nashvilleticketsandevents.net

Carnival and Festivals

2009-09-09T05:37:00.004-05:00

A Festival type of atmosphere is what I had when I performed for Opryland USA Themempark for 11 years and usually some type of microphone is needed for the show. We can work that out when you call ....no problems.

Usually for a "Festival or Carnival" type audience with all ages involved the show will go somewhere around 45 minutes with as much laughter as I can put into it ! That is the goal: MAGIC AND LAUGHTER !! But get ready because I will be calling several of the kids up to help in the show, as that is usually a very fun part!! Volunteers really can make the show!

For seating it is best if the audience is in front of the stage area.....if any seats are to the side those audience members may not be able to see everything that is happening.

My show is perfect for churches, festivals, family gatherings, company picnics any occasion where you have an audience that is ready to laugh and be amazed !!!!
Looking forward to the show !!!!!

Rodney

www.rodneykelley.com

Satisfied Customers!

2009-09-07T05:39:00.001-05:00

A List of Satisfied Customers:

(most of these are in Nashville, TN - unless otherwise listed)

Opryland Hotel and Themepark

USO Tours to 7 countries each year 1997- 2007

Cheekwood Botanical Gardens

Richland Country Club

Nashville Public Library

Belle Meade Country Club

Belle Meade Plantation

Mexicali Grill (Cool Springs)

Volunteer State Community College

Liberty Elementary School (Franklin, TN)

Madison Church of Christ

Brentwood United Methodist Church

Old Hickory Church of Christ

Brighton Gardens Senior Living Center

Maybelle Carter Senior Living Center

State Farm Insurance (main office)

Chic-Filet Restaurant

Vanderbilt Hospital

Vanderbilt Children's Hospital

Tennessee State Fair

Green Hills Mall

Goodpasture Schools

Waylon Jennings

Wynonna Judd

Phil Vassar

Sawyer Brown

"Serving Nashville Since 1985"

Photo Gallery

2009-09-07T05:38:00.004-05:00

Guys Rules

2009-09-06T20:03:00.000-05:00

The Guys' Rules

At last a guy has taken the time to write this all down

Finally , the guys' side of the story.
We always hear

" the rules "
From the female side.

Now here are the rules from the male side.

These are our rules!
Please note.. these are all numbered "1"
ON PURPOSE!

1. Men are NOT mind readers.

1. Learn to work the toilet seat.
You're a big girl. If it's up, put it down.
We need it up, you need it down.
You don't hear us complaining about you leaving it down.

1. Sunday sports: It's like the full moon
or the changing of the tides.
Let it be.

1. Shopping is NOT a sport.
And no, we are never going to think of it that way.

1. Crying is blackmail.

1. Ask for what you want.
Let us be clear on this one:
Subtle hints do not work!
Strong hints do not work!
Obvious hints do not work!
Just say it!

1. Yes and No are perfectly acceptable answers to almost every question.

1. Come to us with a problem only if you want help solving it. That's what we do.
Sympathy is what your girlfriends are for.

1. Anything we said 6 months ago is inadmissible in an argument.
In fact, all comments become null and void after 7 Days.

1. If you think you're fat, you probably are.
Don't ask us.

1. If something we said can be interpreted two ways and one of the ways makes you sad or angry, we meant the other one

1. You can either ask us to do something
Or tell us how you want it done.
Not both.

1. Whenever possible, Please say whatever you have to say during commercials.

1. Christopher Columbus did NOT need directions and neither do we.

1. ALL men see in only 16 colors, like Windows default settings.
Peach, for example, is a fruit, not A color. Pumpkin is also a fruit. We have no idea what mauve is.

1. If it itches, it will be scratched.
We do that.

1. If we ask what is wrong and you say "nothing," We will act like nothing's wrong.
We know you are lying, but it is just not worth the hassle.

1. If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, Expect an answer you don't want to hear.

1. When we have to go somewhere, absolutely anything you wear is fine... Really .

1. Thank you for reading this.
Yes, I know, I hav e to sleep on the couch tonight;

But did you know men really don't mind that? It's like camping.

www.rodneykelley.com

Learn a Trick!

2009-09-05T06:12:00.001-05:00

It just takes a little practice.....you can do it !!!!

Magic News and Feeds

2009-09-05T06:10:00.002-05:00

Wow! Favorite Magic Tricks Come Highly Recommended

2009-09-05T06:07:00.001-05:00

Wow, this is a great trick by Anthony Owen .....he took the old Oil and Water and has really added a great twist that doesn't take a lot of sleight of hand to do......Highly recommended!

My Favorite Magic Shops

2009-09-05T05:40:00.002-05:00

If your kids or yourself are interested in Magic and you end up wanting to buy Magic, I have a few of my favorite shops listed below. I deal with Magic Shops that make you happy !!! and I order online sometimes and they will answer any questions you may have before you order the trick. Magic is fun ...and you need to order the right Magic to make it even more fun !!!!! I'm here also if you have questions, so good luck and start practicing!

Rodney

What's Up with the Carpet?

2009-09-05T01:23:00.010-05:00

This is just me, but I think the carpet weighed 5 pounds and the dog hair and dirt weighed 40 pounds!!!!
That's the way it felt taking out the carpet in my dining room!!! Cutting, slicing, pulling and un-nailing all the tac holding the carpet down in my dining room for about 30 years !! and the carpet in the living room has been there just as long and it is coming up also, just need the time and the place to put it till it goes to the dump.

Heard lots of talk from friends when talking about the carpet situation and some friends said not to take it up because I am not used to hardwood floors. Other friends said it was the best thing I could do,,,,,bring back the hardwood floors that were 50 years old. It really took me about 6 months of thinking and pondering before ever making a decision to remove it, but part of me is just ready for a change and the other part of me laid on the carpet to play with the dogs and that is when I actually saw how dirty they really were! Can I tell you this is going to be exactly the perfect move for me? NO....but it will definitely be a change and I needed it! My arms haven't dropped off and my head hasn't exploded yet, so for now I'm fine.
Have you ever just moved the furniture around in a different location to make the room look new and fresh? Well that wasn't enough for me and I didn't see a pill on TV that would cure my ailment, so now the carpet is coming up......
The hardwood underneath is going to need some work but doesn't everything ???
Is there anything worth having that doesn't need some work?
Just from what I have seen at this very moment I really do think that this is going to be a positive change ,,,,try the living room and the dining room and if this goes well and I really like the outcome after a few months, then take it out of the bedrooms too....!! Only time will tell and still have not got all of the carpet in the living room out yet......but right now I say yes,,,this will be a positive change.!

The second photo shows the worst of what was underneath and there some damage here and there but the area rug will cover that and the rest I'll keep cleaning and shining till it looks better!
This photo shows the old coal shoot where the heat came up.......and this will be under my dining table practically unnoticed.....yesterday all of the carpet went to the metro recycle center. Can you believe they recycle old carpet? Not sure what they use it for but the old carpet is put on a very large truck for transport and if you tell them that you want it recycled they don't charge you a thing to take it!!!!!! If you want to throw it away, they charge you $5 ,,,,,which is still reasonable and very wonderful if all you want is, that dingy carpet out of your house!!!! It's all gone and the area rug is really looking nice and WHAT A GREAT CHANGE!!!
Will post an updated picture of the room later, Hope yours is going well!!!
www.rodneykelley.com

the Magic of Doug Henning

2009-09-03T05:41:00.007-05:00

Truly, the reason that I am in Magic today is because of a magician who appeared on television doing a live show, and I was enthralled !!!! His live television appearance changed the world of magic forever! Make no mistake, his show opened the door for Copperfield, Blaine and Angel to start appearing on television, he truly was and always will be the best in my eyes.!!!

His name was DOUG HENNING and no other will ever match him!

Some say Houdini was the greatest and I claim it's DOUG HENNING......

If you have never seen him perform, open the You Tube page and type in his name, you won't be sorry!!

DOUG! YOU WILL BE MISSED !!!

Doug Henning

Doug Henning in Wikipedia

History Doug Henning

Some of my favorite Magic Websites!

2009-09-03T05:41:00.006-05:00

This is a page that I will continue adding to as time goes on, these are pages that I frequent for one reason or another ......or the page may be listed here simply because I LOVE THE WEBSITE OR THE MAGICIAN!!!

ENJOY!

Jeff McBride

Truly the coolest magician and his website is soooooo very awesome!

Phone Conversation

2009-08-31T14:49:00.002-05:00

Here is a phone conversation after socialized medical coverage takes effect:

The phone rings and the lady of the house answers, 'Hello?'

' Mrs Adams , please.'

'Speaking.'

' Mrs Adams , this is Dr. Jones at Delray Hospital Laboratory. When your husband's doctor sent his biopsy to the lab last week, a biopsy from another Mr. Adams arrived as well. We are now uncertain which one belongs to your husband. Frankly, either way the results are not too good.'

'What do you mean?' Mrs. Adams asks nervously.

'Well, one of the specimens tested positive for Alzheimer's and the other one tested positive for HIV. We can't tell which is which.'

'That's dreadful! Can you do the test again?' questioned Mrs. Adams .

'Normally we can, but the New Federal Medical Plan will only pay for these expensive tests one time.'

'Well, what am I supposed to do now?'

'The folks in Washington recommend that you drop your husband off somewhere in the middle of town. If he finds his way home, don't sleep with him. ---------------------------------------------------------

www.rodneykelley.com

A Prayer for Leroy

2009-08-31T14:43:00.003-05:00

"Anyone with needs to be prayed over, come forward, to the front at the altar," the Preacher says.

Leroy gets in line, and when it's his turn, the preacher asks: "Leroy, what do you want me to pray about for you."

Leroy replies: "Preacher, I need you to pray for my hearing." The preacher puts one finger in Leroy's ear, and he places the other hand on top of Leroy's head and prays and prays and prays, he prays a blue streak for
Leroy.

After a few minutes, the Preacher removes his hands, stands back and asks,"Leroy, how is your hearing now?"

Leroy says, "I don't know, Reverend, it ain't til next
Wednesday!"

www.rodneykelley.com

Perfect Child

2009-08-31T02:16:00.018-05:00

Have you ever met a child who is so very cool and brilliant, who never asks for anything, just enjoys what he has? and this same child is perfectly well mannered in every shape and form and is perfectly happy being part of the crowd but when brought in front of the crowd is the life of the party? Everyone loves him without question and if you met him as I did, you would love him too.

Hope this hasn't confused anyone, but I met the Perfect Child. OK read that line again and we'll continue. I would be performing with this child and yes it was his Birthday, he was turning 6. That is correct, the Perfect Child is here on earth and turned 6. I was thrilled to meet him and excited about the show, then the details followed.

I was filled in on some missing details that changed the entire scope of the party. Andrew was turning 6 and had a brain only Mensa could handle. He also had a condition the doctors couldn't handle. Andrew is here today and the party is going to be great, but because of his condition, he may not see his next Birthday. There are possibilities that he could live to be an adult of an old age, no one including the doctors know how long he will live.

Andrew and I really lived it up! while his family and friends laughed and applauded at each and every turn of the show. He was definitely the star of the show and I simply the director telling our star where the next magic spell will happen. Several times he quoted lines from a Harry Potter incantation and several times he made up his own fantastically witty magic word. Each magic verse took us to another level of magic and comedy with the audience applauding right behind. Finally the eight foot magic wand appeared and Andrew changed the paper rabbit into a real one, to thunderous roars of applause!

Pizza, cake, and presents would follow, with Andrew still performing in the spotlight as his entire family is watching in delight. Some family would watch with video camera, some with still camera and some watching only to inject a comment our star would find humorous. This party, had you not been in the circle, would have looked like any other 6 year old Birthday, with laughter, balloons, kids posing for cameras and a wonderful smiling family stopping at nothing to make it the very best it could be. The party ended with each child leaving with cookies, a smile and a crystal ball filled with spinning sparkly things that would help to make the magic happen.

As a Magician you have a certain amount of power to make the show go as written. The writer decides the laughter and applause points, and the audience helps to make the show go as written. In this situation the writer felt helpless. Even though the show went better than written, why couldn't I have written the script that mattered? I did everything I know in my world to make it the best it could be, but what about the rest of Andrew's script? Someone so unselfish and deserving should only have the best in his life. Only time will tell how the rest of his life will play out. I only wish I could have been the writer for that script as well.

www.rodneykelley.com

MAGIC ....the Vanishing Art ?

2009-08-31T00:59:00.010-05:00

For Years and Years Magicians have taken the oath and the oath they have upheld! Why now are things different?

In this day of technology and communication advances it is so terribly easy to shoot out an email across the country spouting everything you know to anyone you want to know it ....

It is also just as easy to go on YouTube and make a video or for some Masked Magician it is also just as easy to show any Magic Secret that you choose over your particular venue.

When asked, some people say they show the secrets of the Magicians so that the Magicians will come up with new and better methods, new and better ways of doing their art. But when the new and better methods come out, there is our Masked Idiot showing that secret also! When does the exposing end? When do the Magicians come up with something so wonderful that you stop exposing?

Really, I don't understand, on YouTube a 10 year old buys a trick and practices that trick to make it work and then, shortly after showing that trick on YouTube they expose it by making a tutorial video......

The 10 year olds maybe I can understand,,,,,they want to seem superior to their friends. Have I got it right? But, why show a trick and amaze, only to show the secret?

Some secrets are listed in public domain for anyone who can read to see at the library. They are listed there to get young budding Magicians something to get started with, to see if they actually practice those tricks and want to get serious about the art. Any secret that you may want to know is at just about any Magic Shop available to you for the right price.

Oh wait a minute, did I just read that last sentence right? "Available at the right price"?
and the Masked Idiot is also available at the right price..???

It is very sad to think that you don't respect your art enough to uphold the oath that makes that very art stay alive!

and the very Masked Idiot exposing the most is a Professional Magician! or is he? would a Magician want the art of Magic to Disappear? and how long can the exposing go on before the viewing public stops hiring Magicians?

Just the other night "Penn and Teller" went on the "America's Got Talent" show and made a point of saying, "We did this trick to expose how the Magicians do this trick". They made a point of saying this very line to make sure that everyone would look at the trick and see the secret. But where is the point? and why? Why would they want everyone is America to know this secret? because they don't do THAT TRICK in their show so why not expose it!!?? AND part of their popularity is SHOCK, and shock they do when they show a secret!

They too are Magicians and when the public knows too much, they too will be out of business! Would you pay $100 or more a seat to see Magic that doesn't amaze you ???

So my next question, What about the Magician who just bought the trick that Penn and Teller just exposed? What does he do with that $2000 box that he just bought? and what about the Magicians' who use that trick as their "Feature Trick" or their "Big Finish"? Well folks, are they finished? or will people still hire them? and what about those poor Magic Shops who have this trick for sale in their lobby? their actions hurt everyone involved in the field.

Perhaps the Masked Idiot will expose all of the Penn and Teller tricks on his weekly venue and they will see how it all feels.....!! or maybe some 10 year old will make a YouTube video with a tutorial to Penn and Teller..! Just Deserves!

This is simply a few examples and given the time I could go on and on, but all I really want is to preserve the Art of Magic as it has been preserved for years and years! Do I believe that one Masked Idiot is totally going to ruin Magic? NO.

However, there are a bunch of 10 year olds who are following in his footsteps, and obviously some so called professional Magicians feel that it is perfectly fine to show any secret you like as long as you don't perform that trick in your show. (and you're getting paid enough!)

Think back in your mind and try to remember the last time David Copperfield, David Blaine or Chris Angel exposed a secret...Research even further and try to find a time when Blackstone, Houdini or Doug Henning exposed a magic secret...

If exposing secrets is so great for the art of Magic, why aren't the best Magicians doing it? Could it be they have enough talent they don't need to?

www.rodneykelley.com

Midnight Runners

2009-08-26T18:19:00.012-05:00

The days in the summer have been sooooooo hot here in Nashville! Have not had as many people having events outside and my customers are not the only ones complaining about the heat!

Taking the dogs on their walks during the sunny period of the day is not the best idea......I found that out.......they end up trying to walk in the grass only, and I can't blame them. With the sun bearing directly down on the pavement you could probably fry dinner on the driveway and bake your Alaska without a match! I'm not the earliest of risers and that would be an answer, to wake up early and take them before the sun has it's way with the neighborhood. But for the time being I have found an answer that the dogs love !!
MIDNIGHT.........have the dogs ready and go out somewhere around midnight! One can actually think and process all of your thoughts for the day AND have peace and quiet while your dogs have the same. NO, your dogs will have more than peace and quiet, they will love the fact that no cars impede your way and no other dogs are barking or jumping to protect their territory etc...

While the weather will permit, I think this has become a habit for me, Sadie and Max. Come eleven o'clock or so they wake up and get up knowing that the walk is not far away! All they have to do is hear me pull my keys off the desk and they are standing at attention, waiting for leashes. Need a little peaceful, rest time? I highly recommend it !! and Sadie and Max do too!

www.rodneykelley.com

Never Had a Blog!

2009-08-23T02:56:00.001-05:00

Have never had a Blog before and just wanted to see how this thing works and decided to try it .....If I keep up with it, that's a good thing and will keep it on the page.....

If Months go by and this Blog thing is forgotten, then I'll just erase it from the page.

Not sure how most of you do it with the blog but I'm not one to sit down and write an entry every day in anything .....

Maybe this is just something to keep and write very interesting or unusual stories into, is that the way it works? Well, that is the way I am going to try and proceed so it is interesting and cool stuff. Don't really care to write what I'm doing daily...as....Who Cares? Will try to keep it fun and unusual if I can and we'll see how it goes!

More later......

www.rodneykelley.com

Doctor! Doctor!

2009-08-23T02:51:00.002-05:00

Dear Doctor,

Q: Doctor, I’ve heard that Cardio-vascular exercise can prolong life. Is this true?
A: Your heart’s only good for so many beats, and that’s it… don’t waste them on exercise. Everything wears out eventually. Speeding up your heart will not make you live longer; that’s like saying you can extend the life of your care by driving it faster. Want to live longer? Take a nap.

Q: Should I cut down on meat and eat more fruits and vegetables?
A: You must grasp the logistical efficiencies. What does a cow eat? Hay and corn. And what are these? Vegetables. So a steak’s nothing more than an efficient method of delivering vegetables to your system. Need grain? Eat chicken. Beef’s also a good source of field grass (green leafy vegetable). And a pork chop can give you 100% of your recommended daily allowance of vegetable products...

Q: Should I reduce my alcohol intake?
A: No, not at all. Wine’s made from fruit. Brandy’s distilled wine, that means they take the water out of the fruity bit so you get even more of the goodness that way. Beer’s also made out of grain. Bottoms up!

Q: How can I calculate my body/ fat ratio?
A: Well, if you have a body and you have fat, your ratio is 1 to 1. If you have two bodies, your ratio is 2 to 1, etc.

Q: What are some of the advantages of participating in a regular exercise program?
A: Can’t think of a single one, sorry. My philosophy is: No Pain….Good!

Q: Aren’t fried foods bad for you?
A: YOU’RE NOT LISTENING!!!...Foods are fried these days in vegetable oil. In fact, they’re permeated in it. How could getting more vegetables be bad for you?

Q: Will sit-ups help prevent me form getting a little soft around the middle?
A: Definitely not! When you exercise a muscle, it gets bigger. You should only be doing sit-ups if you want a bigger stomach.

Q: is chocolate bad for me?
A: Are you crazy? HELLO cocoa beans! Another vegetable!! It’s the best feel good food around!

Q: Is swimming good for one’s figure?
A: If swimming’s good for your figure, explain whales to me.

Q: Is getting in shape important for my lifestyle?
A: Hey! “Round” is a shape!

Well, I hope this has cleared up any misconceptions you may have had about foods and diets.

And remember:
‘Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways- Chardonnay in 1 hand- chocolate in the other- body thoroughly use up, totally worn out and screaming ‘WOO HOO, What a Ride’

AND...
For those of you who watch what you eat, here’s the final word on nutrition and health. It’s a relief to know the truth after all those conflicting nutritional studies.

The Japanese eat very little fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.

The Mexicans eat a lot of fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.

The Chinese drink very little red wine and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.

The Italians drink a lot of red wine and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.

The Germans drink a lot of beers and eat lots of sausages and fats and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.

CONCLUSION: Eat and drink what you like. Speaking English is apparently what kills you.

(Thank you for reading!)

www.rodneykelley.com

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2009-06-22T21:42:00.000-05:00

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