DonB! Ministries

Happy New Year! - A Resolution

2012-01-17T17:39:00.000-06:00

Can it be true?!? Is it really 2012 already?!? It's incredible how time flies.

It's that time of year when people have made "new year's resolutions". It's also about this time of year when most people forget about their resolution and eat those extra chocolate chip cookies anyway. I know I did.

Well, it's a new year in different ways. My home church here in Mora, Emmanuel Baptist Church, is heading into the new year, with goals about individual growth, as well as growth within our community. Our senior pastor, Mike Herzog, presented what his message, "The State of the Unity" last weekend, and told how possible it is to have a "new beginning" as a church. Instead of looking back and saying, "that's not how we used to do it", he encouraged the entire church to look forward, to what can be accomplished as a healthy group of Christians work together, instead of divided. This is one resolution that I hope grows strong and happens the way it has the potential to.

As for me, I look into the new year and see how many shows I have, the places I will be traveling, and look forward to the people I can work alongside of, and those I can perform for. My calendar is filling fast, and that's wonderful!

Our daughter, Deanna, finished up her first semester of college at North Central University, and is transferring over to Bethel university in 2 weeks. She likes college, but it's weird not having her around all the time.

Dale, our son, is 15 years old, and has his fingers in all sorts of projects. He loves remote controlled vehicles (he assembled one really nice one from various kits), is working on a large robotics program at Mora high School, and is going nuts hoping for enough snow to go snowboarding. Minnesota hasn't received much snow this winter. Yet.

Debbie is in her 9th year as a paraprofessional at Mora Junior High School, and still loves it. She's awesome.

As for me, I'm just trying to better my life day by day. I love to hear people's stories, and asked for anyone on Facebook to tell me about something that has made a big difference in their life. I like to know what people are doing to bring more meaning to their relationships. Even our Bible study group talked about how important relationships are to keep people connected and healthy.

What about your year coming up? What do you have planned? Did you make a new year's resolution, and have you kept it?

More Dontar Pictures

2011-12-05T19:08:00.000-06:00

If you haven't seen some of the 35 characters we have for our new "Dontar" machine, here are some photos of a few of them.

"Asylum S.K.P." - the crazy character

Craig Carlson, as "Dontar"

"Is it real?" Many people ask that throughout the night

People are naturally drawn to "Dontar", because it is so unique

One of our female characters, "Grandma Bea's Pearls of Wisdom"

The female Gypsy Girl

"The Pirate"

"Solomon's Wisdom", a character we created for churches

"The Wizard" character

Other characters that we've created are a "Cheerleader", created for a special event through G.L. Berg, that took place at the University of Minnesota.

"Dontar" in action

2011-12-05T14:04:00.002-06:00

A short video from the Vita.MN event we performed for at EPIC Nightclub in downtown Minneapolis.

The "Dontar" character is played by my good friend, Craig Carlson.

DonB!

DONTAR makes his next appearance

2011-11-02T11:18:00.000-05:00

On November 18th, my interactive, live, robotic automaton, "DONTAR", will makes his next appearance.

Dontar

The activities site, www.vita.mn,

is hosting their 5th anniversary party

at the EPIC nightclub

in downtown Minneapolis,

and DONTAR will be there to entertain the 2000+ guests.

If you are interested in attending, tickets can be purchased HERE.

Dontar lives!!!

Party Poster

DonB!

New DonB! T-Shirts Are Here

2011-10-28T18:58:00.004-05:00

I've been using this design for about 4 years, and finally got the new shirt designs in today.

For women's styles and colors you can purchase them HERE

Women's Heather Sapphire

Women's Heather Maroon

For men's styles and colors you can purchase them HERE

Men's Heather Royal

Men's Heather Maroon

All $$$ goes directly back into DonB! Ministries to cover travel costs, hotels, etc.

Thanks for looking.

DonB!

2011-09-24T19:38:00.000-05:00

NOTE: This is a post that I thought I posted back in the Spring, but found just now. -DonB!

Greetings all!

Spring is sprung, and I had some time to research some topics. Here is the first one:

Many Christians claim to be "Calvinists," and others claim to be "Arminians". Well what does that mean?

Calvinists say that some basics of the Christian faith fall under the acronym, TULIP. Each letter stands for a basic "stance" as a Christian:

T - total depravity
U - unconditional election
L - limited atonement
I - irresistible grace
P - perseverance of the saints

If this acronym uses such big words that it seems like a foreign language to you, trust me; it does to many people.

But that is why I enjoy studying these things. Is it enough to become a Christian and then stop learning anything else about Christianity? My thought is absolutely not!

So, here is a short, and well written article explaining how the Arminian and Calvinistic viewpoints differ:

http://www.spreadinglight.com/theology/armvscal.html

Take a read of the article and let me know what you think.

DonB

Why Outreach?

2011-09-24T19:37:00.001-05:00

I've now been performing for 33 years, and 22 years have been primarily as ministry work. I currently have 3 different shows, each one designed for a different purpose.

One of the distinctions I've tried to make, to churches interested in hiring my services, has been the difference between "outreach" and "evangelism". I don't really consider myself to be an evangelist, though I've had the privilege on many occasions to lead people to Christ through, and after, my programs.

To me, evangelism is done with the intent to not only explain the Gospel, but take people to a time of decision for themselves. Outreach, on the other hand, is a time to share my personal faith as a Christian, more as an inspiration to others that are either 1) not a Christian or 2) are Christians, but are having a tough time in life. Outreach is the easiest to do. For me.

In the 22 years of ministry shows that I've done, I've had pastors and others that hire me say, "Well, what good is it to have visitors in my church if we're not going to share the Gospel with them?" And before I give you my answer, think about it yourself: what would you answer to that question?

Here are my thoughts:

One of the biggest barriers to sharing the Gospel, if it going to happen in a church building, is getting people inside the walls of the church, without them feeling "pounced upon". I've seen MANY visitors sit in the back, near the door, for the security of being able to run out of there if need be. Safety is a factor.

How many times have you gone someplace that you felt uncomfortable being, and felt the need to just get out? I can think of many times that has happened in my own life. I didn't want to feel "trapped". Nobody does.

Second, outreach doesn't have to happen inside the church walls. Others should be able to see that you have a strong hope, even though life can deal you some tough hits at times. (1 Peter 3:15) If I've learned one BIG thing over my years as a Christian, it is this: Don't TELL people what it means to be a Christian, SHOW them.

I've explained all of this to tell you how an outreach event furthered God's kingdom. Here it is:

I was asked to do a show for a small church in Minnesota. When I arrived there were only about 25 people there. In my head I felt disappointed that there weren't more. I set-up my show, and started on time. During the show, the audience filled to approximately 50 people.

Within the show, I told my version of Jonah & the Whale (many of you have seen it), and gave a simple summary, that God really does have a plan for every person's life, but each of us has to choose if we will go on the journey God has set before us.

At the end of the program, I simply encouraged people, no matter how young or old, no mater how rich or poor, no matter what your life is like right now, God wants to begin a relationship with you, and you can come just as you are. Don't think that you have to clean up your messes and THEN come to God. He wants you just as you are, even with all of the baggage you may carry.

The show ended, and as I was packing, the church was testing out a new drummer, letting him try the songs they would be doing tomorrow in the Sunday service. The drummer did great.

Afterward, while talking with the pastor, he explained something neat. When I asked if the guy was a new drummer, the pastor said, "Yes, and before today's show, I had never met the guy. He said he received a flyer on his door about today's event, and brought his family over. He came to the show, heard the simple message and asked if he could come to our church, and use his drum talents to play with our music team."

And so the relationship begins. Outreach, the way it is intended. No one questioned this guy's credentials (his past, whether he drinks or smokes, his mistakes). They simply said "Yes", when he asked to be a part of what was happening here at this church. Outreach.

My question to any Christians that read this is this: Do not worry that you've never shared the Gospel with anyone. Do not think you are any less worthy than the pastor that sees personal decisions happen regularly. Ephesians 4:11 says that SOME are evangelists, SOME are teachers, SOME are apostles... You can share the Gospel by the way you live your life. Matthew 5:16 says,

"In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." (NIV)

Does your church do outreach? Have YOU done any outreach? Try reaching out sometime, and see where it takes you. See how it affects people. See how it changes lives.

DonB!

Maryland is beautiful

2011-07-18T21:52:00.000-05:00

Maryland has been beautiful for our family. The scenery is amazing. The place we are working at, Sandy Cove Ministries, is an amazing place for families to get together and worship, play, and relax.

Here are a few notes from our time here so far:

Dale & I drove out here, stopping to visit friends, and seeing what weird places we could find to stretch our legs at. How about a fireworks tent?

$1400 fireworks kit. We did NOT buy it!

The trip out here was uneventful, except for one trailer tire malfunction.

Trailer tire repair

Trailer tire Uh-Oh

Upon arriving in Maryland, one of our favorite places to eat is Rita's.

First stop upon our arrival

Dale & I explored Sandy Cove on our unicycles.

Dale on the Sandy Cove Pier

Then we all explored Elk Neck State Park, near Sandy Cove, with our friend Beth-Anne.

Deanna, Deb & Beth-Anne, our friend.

Collecting driftwood for the craft shop

While visiting with our best friends, the Pribulicks, we played in a river, and did a family tradition of Deb's family: damming up a stream.

Damming up the stream

Sandy Cove has so much to offer the guests here, so we took advantage of much of it during the week before guests arrived, including a 9-hole disc golf course.

Deb, on the 7th hole of disc golf

We decided to check out the premier of the final Harry Potter movie, but DIDN'T go opening night. When we DID go, however, we purchased the 3D glasses, and it was very cool.

Don, Chris, Deb, Deanna & Dale (camera) at the HP Premier

One of the craft shop projects we put together was a giant spin-art machine. Craigslist put us in touch with the barn fan, and with a couple of hours time, we had a fully functioning spin art machine.

Building a spin-art machine out of a barn fan

Finished project, after 2 weeks of use.

Then we took a one day trip to Washington DC, and the Smithsonian Institute.

Part of the Berlin Wall

The original Charlie McCarthy

Deanna, Deb, Don, Dale and Beth-Anne at the Lincoln Memorial

The Korean War Memorial: Somber and amazing.

The Korean War Memorial, with me reflected among the faces.

Me, as a goofy looking tourist

A view of the (under construction) reflecting pool

Original Song of the South marquee poster

While introducing ourselves before the evening session, I realized I was sitting right next to 2 pioneers of Christian music, and very pro-family ministers. They are super people.

Speakers this week: Steve & Annie Chapman. Me, looking giddy.

We are now in our 3rd week of time here, and each week has been a great experience. This week there is even a family from Minnesota here.

Until next time...

DonB!

Dontar Lives!!!

2011-06-08T10:54:00.001-05:00

DonB! as "Dontar"

Last Friday evening, Wayzata High School seniors had their all-night- graduation lock-in party at Brunswick Center, and "Dontar" was there to entertain the grads.

Thanks to Mark & Lori at A Touch of Magic, my good friend, Craig Carlson, and I hauled the "Dontar" machine to Brooklyn Park and had the machine work the crowd for 2.5 hours, and they loved him.

For the first hour, I was inside the machine, while Craig was the barker, calling for people to experience the wonder of our mechanical creation. For the second hour, Craig was inside the machine and I was able to lead people to the machine, encourage them to interact with "Dontar", dance with him, etc. I enjoyed being inside AND outside the machine, as each one gave me different ways to have fun with the grads.

As people approached the machine, Dontar came to life (as much as a mechanical robot can), and interacted with the students, then delivered some funny "life advice" that they could take with them. Some lucky grads also won the old "fortune-telling fish novelty", and some won a real deck of playing cards (that matched the ones spread around inside the machine).

Craig, as "Dontar"

Steady stream of people for 2 hours

People loved to stand around and discuss whether "Dontar" was real, or if he really was a mechanical machine. Some stayed around for 10-15 minutes discussing it. It was great!

If you would like to see Dontar appear at your next event,

call 320-679-0060

and ask for "Dontar". 25+ characters to choose from.

Until next time...

DonB!

Unique Items For Sale

2011-05-27T10:45:00.000-05:00

As many of you know, I have been experimenting with knotwork over the last 6 months, and it's time to clean house.

I am getting rid of all of my one-of-a-kind projects that are accumulating around here.

Please go HERE to view all of the items for sale. They are all one-of-a-kind, meaning when it's gone, it's gone.

Thanks for looking,

DonB!

Jolly Green Giant on Vacation

2011-05-26T21:14:00.000-05:00

The last cukes being given out

Well, today was a bittersweet day. Good and (sort of) bad.

During the school year, on Thursdays I have been dressing as the Jolly Green Giant and participating in snack time at the elementary school here in Mora.

I challenged them with broccoli, carrots, celery, jicama, cucumbers, fresh green beans, snap peas, and mixes of many different vegetables. Some kids tried the samples easily, and others were hesitant, if they tried them at all.

Well today was my last day for this school year, and the kids took my advice and ate up all of the cucumbers. This Jolly Green Giant disguise really works.

5 lb Basket

Being my last day, I received many hugs and goodbyes from kids. Some even asked if I would be going to the other school with them as they move up next year. And from Mrs. Norby I received a giant fruit-Veggie basket as a thanks for volunteering. It was a wonderful way to end the year at the elementary school.

Who knows, maybe Jolly will be back, or maybe I'll figure out some other character to play next year.

DonB!

The Meaning of "Disciple"

2011-05-12T08:28:00.000-05:00

While visiting the church website of my good friend, Randy Christensen, I saw a neat anagram for the word "disciple", and I wanted to share it here with you. It caused me to stop and examine my own motives and methods. Enjoy.

Core Values

Do everything in love.
I don't have to, I get to.
Seek to understand before seeking to be right.
Compassion is a bridge over which truth is carried.
I am free to fail so I am free to succeed.
Praise in public, rebuke in private.
Leave it better than you found it.
Everyone matters to God.

Isn't that great?! I really like it.

DonB!

DonB's Latest Hobby/FUNdraiser

2011-05-06T11:08:00.000-05:00

As some of you know, I have been playing with fancy knotwork for the last year and have just completed my next set of projects.

I have completed my first 5 fancy hiking sticks, or "staffs" as many refer to them.

Dad - Mom - Red - Mine - 4 Red Rings

Five different styles, using five different methods and knot techniques.

#1 - The first one is called DAD, based on who I made it for. It is a larger diameter staff, with a double half-moku knot pattern, topped off by 2 tripled Turkshead knots.

#2 - Similar to the first one, but named MOM, because I made it for her. It is a single-strand St. Mary's hitching, finished with 2 smaller turkshead knots, on a smaller diameter staff.

#3 - Simply titled RED, it is a full moku-hitching pattern, with 2 turkshead knots, done in red dyed cotton.

#4 - MINE. Can you guess which one I'm keeping for me? It is a 3-strand ringbolt hitching, with the usual turkshead knots finishing it. This pattern makes for the most comfortable grip.

#5 - 4 RED RINGS was my experiment with 2-strand St. Mary's hitching. The red line is added for 12 rotations, making a 3-strand hitching, then back to 2-strands in white. I like the way this one turned out.

All of them are topped off with a leather strap, as well as a keyring through the top to attach accessories such as bear bells or whistles.

As a fund raiser for my ministry work, I figured I would make some of these for purchase. Depending on style, and which wood I use, they will sell for $50-95.00 each. The ones pictured are done on light colored birch.

If you are interested in one for yourself, or if you know someone that does a lot of hiking or trail walking, please let them know about these. They take about a 2 weeks to complete.

Alright, it's time to get some other work done.

DonB!

A highlight of this year

2011-05-06T10:00:00.003-05:00

Last night was a great night. I'll tell you why.

In every field of employment there are "heroes", or folks that set the standards that others attempt to live up to. Computers have Apple. Circus has Ringling Brothers & Cirque du Soleil. Well, in magic there are also those that have been pioneers and leaders in various aspects of magic and illusion.

In 1991, while watching a television special, "The World's Greatest Magic", mixed in with all of the big illusions, fog & wind machines, a man walked out onstage holding only a rope in his hands. Then, for the next 5 minutes he absolutely fried the brains of magicians all over the world. The way the rope melted together, the ends came right off and then magically jumped back on again, and the fluidity of his movements made for a lot of talk the next few weeks among my magician friends. He was doing things with a rope that no one had ever seen or done before. I said to my wife, "If he EVER releases that routine, I would pay a LOT of money for it." Thankfully he released it 3 years later, for under $50.00, and I have been performing it for the last 16 years.

To see that actual footage, click HERE.

To actually meet one of these "heroes" of magic is a real privilege. Last night, I was very privileged to spend almost 7 hours with Francis Tabary.

I drove to St. Paul, and from 5-7 PM I, along with 2 other magicians, had lessons from Mr Tabary. I showed him what I did with his routine, and he proceeded to teach me another 20-30 tips, tricks, effects and handlings for that routine.

To see the extra work he taught me, take a look at some more recent footage of Tabary, and watch how many amazing touches have been added to the routine.

Then at 7PM he began his magic lecture for 18 magicians from around the Midwest. It was fun to watch the facial reactions and audible gasps of those in attendance, as they watched Francis perform the routines he had just taught 3 of us.

I then purchased his book, that is getting more difficult to find all the time, and had him sign it.

DonB! - Tabary

To top it off, 6 of us then went out to dinner with Mr Tabary and talked life, magic, and optical illusions. We then found out that Mr Tabary is also a specialty sculptor, creating real 3-dimensional versions of 2-dimensional optical illusions. He had two of them with him,so I snapped a couple of pictures. Amazing to see an "impossible object" live and in 3 dimensions.

Well, now I'm super tired, and I have a show at Bethel College this evening, so I'm going to go take a short nap.

God is good, all the time.

DonB!

Last Weekend's Adventures

2011-05-01T17:56:00.000-05:00

Last weekend was a busy, yet strange weekend.

On Thursday Deb & I headed down to the Twin Cities for the grand re-opening of Sears Imported Autos. The night's theme was "Cabaret," and I played "Joel Gray on Stilts".

Loren Daniels, DonB!

The next day found me wandering around downtown Minneapolis, attempting to deliver a 6-foot long submarine sandwich, for a film short by Norm Barnhart. We got some good footage inside the IDS building before being kindly asked/told to leave. When I spotted a beautifully long escalator in the downtown TCF bank, the security there actually invited us to film in their place. We utilized the escalators, and filmed in the spiraling staircase for almost an hour. I can't wait for the editing to be done, and when it is I will send you all a link to view it.

DonB, in the parking ramp.

What a life!

DonB!

Family Entertainers Workshop

2011-04-12T14:10:00.000-05:00

Family Entertainers Workshop

presents

MAGIC MINNESOTA Convention

"teaching performance skills for the family entertainer"

May 12-14, 2011

Country Inn by Carlson

Woodbury, MN

I will be performing and teaching at the Magic Minnesota Convention coming up next month. I will have 2 performing spots during the conference, as well as teaching 3 classes (Strolling Close-up Magic, Everyone Can Juggle and Improving Your Publicity Materials).

I will also have a dealer table, offering many magic, juggling and comedy-related props and books.

Please consider coming out for the conference. There are 6 full-time entertainers teaching, including Fred Baisch, Sue Kleinwacther, Annette Fragale, DJ Ehlert and Steve Kissell.

If you'd like a brochure for the conference, call me or email me and I'll send one to you.

Contact me at donb(at)donbministries(dot)com

For full information, contact:

Steve Kissell
1227 Manchester Ave
Norfolk, VA. 23508-1122
(757) 423-3867

Or request a faxed version of the brochure by faxing to (757) 489-1587

See you there...

DonB

Calvinism and Arminians

2011-03-30T21:30:00.001-05:00

Greetings all!

Spring is sprung, and I had some time to research some topics. Here is the first one:

Many Christians claim to be "Calvinists," and others claim to be "Arminians". Well what does that mean?

Calvinists say that some basics of the Christian faith fall under the acronym, TULIP. Each letter stands for a basic "stance" as a Christian:

T - total depravity
U - unconditional election
L - limited atonement
I - irresistible grace
P - perseverance of the saints

If this acronym uses such big words that it seems like a foreign language to you, trust me; it does to many people.

But that is why I enjoy studying these things. Is it enough to become a Christian and then stop learning anything else about Christianity? My thought is absolutely not!

So, here is a short, and well written article explaining how the Arminian and Calvinistic viewpoints differ:

http://www.spreadinglight.com/theology/armvscal.html

Take a read of the article and let me know what you think.

DonB

Going back to Maryland

2011-03-15T18:38:00.001-05:00

If anyone lives on the East Coast, or wants to take a nice family vacation out there, I, along with my whole family will be performing and working there for 6 weeks this summer.

Here is the basic information page HERE

If you click on the above link, DO NOT move your mouse across the top of the page, as that will open up the waiver form (weird website quirk). It does show a nice spread of pictures of me. Neato!

DonB!

“We loved the fellowship, teaching, and of course… DonB! We loved how he interacted with us – seemed like he was sneaking behind every corner and jumped out whenever we needed a laugh!!! He was definitely on God’s timing!!”

Hope – York PA

Interesting Moral Dilemma

2011-03-14T10:09:00.000-05:00

While searching some knot tying techniques, I happened upon a website devoted to helping people prepare for disasters. One of the articles really made me think:

How far would I go to save my own family in a disaster, and how far would I go to help someone else suffering in the midst of that same disaster?

It is easy to say, "I would do anything to help someone else," but this article really puts into perspective some deep situational thoughts that most of us (hopefully) may never have to face.

Well, read the article (it's short), and let me know what you think. Here's the LINK

DonB!

Go Cruising with DonB!

2011-03-10T18:10:00.000-06:00

Today it was confirmed that I will be performing on the 2012 K-Love Friends & Family Cruise!

I would like to invite all of you to go cruising with me next February. The dates are February 6-10, 2012.

DaleB, DonB, DebB & DeannaB, on the beachB

Please click HERE to go to the page with all of the information.

You will see that the Newsboys will be performing, as well as Sanctus Real, Salvador, Chris Tomlin, Mandisa and many others. It's a going to be a GREAT time!

If you sign up, please tell them you are part of the "DonB Group". If I get 8 people to sign up under my name, then the cost of one free cruise will be divided among all of you that are in the group (usually $70-$150.00 to each person). It's a great deal all around.

Cruise with me...

DonB!

Pictures from my last show

2011-03-01T14:22:00.000-06:00

Last Saturday afternoon, I, along with my son, Dale, performed at Cedar Valley Church in Bloomington, MN. We were there as part of their "We Love Kids Winter Beach Party". It was a HUGE event.

Here are some pictures that were sent to me from the event:

The Egg Bag

"Mickeeeeeeyyyyyyy"

Ring Juggling

This weekend I am heading out to Gurnee, Illinois, then flying down to Mineral Wells, Texas.

On the road again...

DonB!

The Letter to Don

2011-03-01T14:02:00.001-06:00

On Monday evenings, in our home, we hold a Bible study & fellowship time. Each week we listen to a 25-40 minute podcast of a message, then talk about it. We finish up the evening by laughing and joking as we talk about how our week prior has gone. It is a great time together with people who simply want to grow in our faith as Christians.

Last night, the message was titled "A Change of Direction", talking about God's grace toward each one of us, and that no matter where we choose to go in life, God allows, and even ASKS us to turn around and follow Him again. It was a neat thought, especially when we talked about our own times in life that we have had to STOP, and turn around from the stupid and sometimes painful decisions we have made.

The speaker on the podcast used Revelation 2-3 in his message, regarding what Christ said to the various churches that claimed to be His followers. This really got me thinking...

What would the letter say if written to my own church, Emmanuel Baptist Church, or Mora, Minnesota? In each of the Revelation letters, Christ pointed out the good & bad that each church demonstrated. He praised them for the things they were doing correctly, but rebuked them for the ways that they had turned their backs on God.

I can think of many things that my own church has done well over the almost 18 years I have been attending. Sadly, I can think of other times when our church chose to go a route that was self-serving, and not within God's will.

Then, this took me even further into this idea:

What would Christ say if He wrote a letter directly to ME?

What would he commend me for doing that was within His will for me? Followed closely by the rebuke for my failures as a believer, I'm sure. Which half of the letter would be longer? Would He point out things that I am already aware of, or would I be surprised by what He lists, both good and bad?

Given, I'm not looking for answers from any of you, but it made me really stop and attempt to evaluate where I am at. What have I done in the way of sharing the Gospel around my town, my state, my country, and beyond? Could someone look at me and see that I am a Christian, or would they only see a "nice guy"? What about the people that I have hurt throughout my life? Will I ever be able to repair those hurts?

There will come a time when each of stands before God and makes an account for what we did with the time we were given. Am I ready for that time? Are you?

---------------------------------------------

Life's not fair, but God is.

---------------------------------------------

I leave you with this verse from the book of Matthew, but don't let it scare you. Let it encourage you to do as much as possible with your time here on earth. Put aside the petty things that divide us. Forgive each other over and over and over again. Make that "YouTurn" that the speaker talked about. Share the Good News, in our words and actions.

“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’ Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’

Matthew 7:21-23 (New International Version, ©2010)

DonB!

One hobby of mine

2011-02-16T08:38:00.000-06:00

What do I do on some days without shows? I experiment. On what you ask? Well, here are some of the projects that I have been playing around with:

I have been experimenting with various knot tying projects lately, and wanted to post just a few of them here.

Finger rings have been another experiment

Turk's Head Finger Ring

2-Color Turk's Head Ring, Single Strand Ring

Keychains are another

2-Color Cobra Weave Keychain

1-Color Cobra Weave Keychain

Necklaces of various designs

24 Facet Globe Knot Necklace

40 Facet tri-color Globe Knot over a single Dice

As well as ceiling fan chain pulls

176 Facet Ceiling Fan Pull

44 facet ceiling fan pull

Any other knottyers out there?

DonB!

DonB! just back from K-Love Cruise 2011

2011-02-12T22:54:00.000-06:00

Just today I found a clip of one of my performances on the K-Love Friends & Family Cruise 2011.

You can see the clip HERE or go to the K-Love Blog and scroll down to the 6th video highlight from the cruise HERE.

I will write more about the cruise, but for now, let me simply say that it was another amazing time with hundreds of friends and family.

Maybe you want to sign up for the 2012 cruise? Go HERE and look forward to an incredibly great time in 2012.

DonB!

DonB! has many hobbies

2011-01-28T22:24:00.000-06:00

As if I needed other things to fill my spare time, I do have a hobby. Actually, I have too many hobbies.

How do I define a "hobby"? Well, according to Sports & Leisure, it is

A specialized pursuit (as stamp collecting, painting) that is outside one's regular occupation and that one finds particularly interesting as a source of leisure-time relaxation.

All of my hobbies are exactly that: things to do when I want to relax.

Well, what are my hobbies then? Let me see if I can remember them all...

Stamp Collecting. But not just any stamps. I collect postage stamps with themes that relate to my own work interests, such as CIRCUS, JUGGLING, UNICYCLES, STILT WALKING, CLOWNING and MAGIC & MAGICIANS. I have about 300 various stamps and stamp sets that fit into the above categories. Ask me to see them sometime. I'd love to show you.

Cross Necklace making. About 4 years ago, while working one of the music cruises, I met a comedian, Lanny Moody. He showed me how he makes cross necklaces and either gives them away as gifts, or sells them to raise money for his ministry work. With his permission, I began making them, and now have made and sold over 1000 of them in the last 4 years. If you would like a handmade cross, made by me, please feel free to go HERE and order one. Or two. Or more. Every dollar spent goes right back into our ministry work.

Origami. I have always been interested in origami, but even more so once I started working the cruise ships. There are many times each day that a financial tip can be given to someone. My choice is to either hand them a bill, just as it comes, or to give them one that I have made into something interesting, such as a dog, an elephant, a swan, a Minnesota loon, a shirt & pants set, or about 15 other designs that I have taken the time to learn.

I also have chosen to concentrate on various sorts of origami boxes and containers, of all shapes and sizes.

Decorative Knotting. Because of my off-center interest in almost all things math related, knot tying caught my eye about 3 months ago. I was merely looking for a way to embellish the lanyard part of my cross necklaces, and came across some information on the internet. Well, now I'm hooked on it. The things I've made are nothing too special at this point, but it sure has been fun learning it all.

Playing the Cello. I never really knew what the term "bucket list" meant, until I looked into cello lessons. The guy that leased me the cello asked if I was learning in order to cross something off of my "bucket list", so I asked him what that meant. He explained that we all desire to do things during our life, such as sky-diving, swimming with stingrays, bungy jumping, or even just traveling to a particular foreign land. It is as if we have many things stored up in our "bucket", and hope to accomplish each of them before we die someday. For me, I have always loved the sound of the cello, and figured, "I'm not getting any younger,", so let me give it a try.

Right here in Mora, we have a new music teacher at the elementary school, and on a whim, we bumped into her in the grocery store and asked her if she had ever taught cello. She said, "Yes", and we hired her on the spot. In exchange for giving me lessons for one year, I paid for the rental of her cello.

Am I any good at it? Not really. Have I enjoyed the learning process? Absolutely! I still love the sound of the cello, but it really does take a lot of practice to bring out the mellow sound it is known for.

Photoshop. May times I have paid good money for pieces of ministry advertising that wasn't as good as I had hoped for. Well, having a friend, Romulus Portwood, that worked for Adobe at one time, he was able to hook me up with an older version of Photoshop. Once again, I am hooked. The program is capable of doing so many things that I sit down to work on something, and it ends up (usually) looking even better than I had hoped for. I've done two of my own posters now, as well as postcard design for other performers, as well as some posters for my brother's band, Juan Roberto & the Bubble Bakery Orchestra. I love the creativity that Photoshop has opened up in me. I love seeing the final product, and thinking, "Wow, I created that myself."

Bass Guitar. When my friend, Mike, suggested I learn to play bass guitar so that he could utilize all of his other instruments at church, I figured "why not"? With some beginning help from him, and a lot of time on my own, I have now been playing with our church's worship team for almost a year. And I love it! Am I ready for a concert? Probably not. But it sure is fun playing with other musicians at church.

A Cajon Drum

Percussion. When I was a kid, I was labeled "hyperactive". One of the signs that brought that title upon me was how I was always beating on my legs, or my desk at school, imagining I was in some famous band, and of course I was the drummer. Well, as more and more times I saw that our worship team could use percussion instruments to enhance some of the songs, I decided to give it a try.

I first played the congas about 8 years ago. The added shakers and a few other percussive items. Now, I own a cajon box drum that I am hoping to begin using again at church sometime soon.

I found one in this lion's mouth

Geocaching. Are you aware, that right now, around the world, there are over 1,000,000 hidden containers, placed in public places, waiting to be found? Geocaching (GEO-earth, CACHING-container) utilizes a handheld GPS to locate coordinates all over the place, that containers are hidden at. What kind of containers? Ranging in size from tiny (pencil eraser-sized) to very large (ammunition cans, garbage cans), each one contains at minimum a logbook for you to sign in on when you have found it. Some of them contain prizes, or toys, that you are encouraged to exchange for something that you may have brought. Dale, my son, has found new Hotwheels cars in them before, as well as golf balls, a Caribou Coffee gift card worth $5.00, a coin from Russia, and other weird, sometimes junky things that NOBODY would EVER want.

If you want to look into geocaching, go HERE and take a look at the site. A basic membership is free, and you could soon be on your way into the woods to look for cammo-covered peanut butter jars filled with prizes.

The fun in geocaching is getting outside, discovering parks and areas that you would never visit otherwise, and ending with the reward of saying that you found "such and such geocache, way out in the middle of nowhere". Now doesn't that sound like fun?!?!

Close-up magic on the ship

Close-up Magic. If you were to walk into my office and look at my bookshelves, you would see about 400 books, mostly related to close-up magic. Coin tricks, card tricks, rope tricks, mind reading tricks, ball tricks, silk tricks, dollar bill tricks, pencil tricks, paper tricks, napkin tricks, and on and on and on. I hate to even think about how many tricks and routines I've learned over the years that I have forgotten. I would guess it would number in the 1000s, if not more. But performing magic tricks, especially when I perform them right up close, with YOU watching like a hawk, is such a fun hobby, I could not imagine me enjoying anything more. Close-up magic is what started me performing over 30 years ago, and I still love it today.

Well, that's probably enough hobbies for one week. Who knows what I might add to my list in the future? Sky diving? Demolition derby racing? You never know!

DonB!

DonB! does graphic art? Sort of.

2011-01-21T19:26:00.001-06:00

Wow, I'm on a roll lately: 4 postings in 5 days. I almost broke a sweat getting there too.

Well, here is another piece of fun info for ya'll.

My brother, Bob, plays in a folk band, Juan Roberto and the Bubble Bakery Orchestra, or "JRBBO" for short. On February 12th, down in Albert Lea, Minnesota, they will be playing a special concert. It is called "Mission to the Balkans", a fundraiser for missions work in the Balkans (Bulgaria, Macedonia, Greece, Kosovo, Serbia, & Croatia). JRBBO will play a full set, along with two special guests.

The first is a solo singer, "Lauryn", from Maple Grove, and the other is former lead singer of "4th Man in the Fire", Pastor G., also known in real life as Pastor George Marin, of Grace Christian Church in Albert Lea. Pastor G will be joining JRBBO onstage, performing some of the hits from the 4th Man days when John, George and Bob were a group in Albert Lea.

It should be a great time, and a freewill offering will be taken at the door for the Balkan missions.

Oh yeah, how do I tie in? I designed the poster for the event.

DonB!

Lifepoint Church: Inspiring!

2011-01-21T15:12:00.000-06:00

Last summer, while my wife, Debbie, and son, Dale, were working and ministering in North East, Maryland, we had the opportunity to attend church 3 times at a church that seemed buried way out in the countryside, Lifepoint Church.

Our first sunday there, Senior Pastor Joe Duke spoke a message titled, "Judge Knot", as the 3rd part in a series titled "There's an App for That", making reference to the iPhone's "app", short for "application". It was a great message, helping to decipher when, and if, it is appropriate to judge someone on their actions, choices, etc. It really was a great sermon.

Later in the summer we had the opportunity to attend Lifepoint again, and they were into the 7th sermon of the APP series, titled "Change4Good", referring to the proper discipline all Christians should live under.

Well, summer came to an end and we returned back to our home in Minnesota, thinking that our time with the Lifepoint sermon series was over. Not quite.

When challenged by a friend from our home church to lead an in-home small group Bible study, I felt at a loss of what to do. I find that I don't have a lot of discipline in arranging my schedule throughout the week to organize a lesson, and felt ready to back out of the deal. Well, not quite.

David Pribulick. He's cool!

Our Maryland friends, the Pribulicks, sent us a small gift. It seems that at the end of the sermon series at Lifepoint Church, everyone that finished the series was given a mini iPhone look-a-like item, featuring all of the sermons and accompanying verses form the series. My answer had arrived.

Our nifty "iPhone" Lifepoint APP souvenir

Our small group could use this exact sermon series as a jumping off point for our weekly study. An answer to prayer, in more ways than one.

So, here we are, 7 weeks into our get togethers, and we're doing well. Each sermon deals with one part of the importance that "hearing is not the same as doing; we hear the message, understand it, and maybe even agree with it, but what do we do about it?"

I say all this to inspire you to download the free podcasts from this series. Each message is only 28-38 minutes in length, and they all have been really good! The most recent one, "RiskIt", challenges all of us to take what we know about our faith and get out there and do something with it: RiskIt, by telling others.

If you are interested in looking for a great, free podcast, go HERE and download some episodes to your iTunes, and listen to them. They are inspiring. Maybe you'll be challenged like our group has been.

And I have found out that we will be spending a little time in Maryland this summer, so we'll be attending Lifepoint once again, even if only for a short time.

Enjoy,

DonB!

Camp Lebanon Audience Photo

2011-01-16T13:29:00.000-06:00

To celebrate my 51st show for Camp Lebanon, I remembered to grab my camera and take a picture of the audience. They were great. See if you can find yourself...

And, YES, they DID decorate the entire chapel to look like the inside of a circus tent!

DonB! & the L.O.L. Show in Brainerd, MN

2011-01-16T13:23:00.000-06:00

On February 25th I will be performing in the L.O.L. Show (Laugh Out Loud) with Randy & Ben Christensen in Brainerd, Minnesota, as part of "Kids' Mission Experience".

This conference is open to anybody that would like to bring your church kids, but make sure you contact them with your reservation.

Feel free to come join us on Friday evening for a great show, for a great cause, with a whole church filled with great kids.

See you there?

DonB!

DonB! will be cruising again in 2011

2011-01-12T21:49:00.001-06:00

Hey folks,

I am happy to report that I have been asked back as an entertainer on two music cruises in 2011. And I am excited!!!

Premier Christian Cruises has asked me back to perform on the K-Love Friends & Family Music Cruise in February...

and the Music Boat 2011 Cruise in November, onboard the Carnival Imagination Ship:

Contact Premier Christian Cruises:

Get a tentative reservation in TODAY. Cabins fill up fast, but I would love to have all of you join me on board some of the greatest cruise experiences you'll ever be a part of.

Let me bait your hook with these names: Newsboys, Chris Tomlin, MercyMe, Brandon Heath, KJ-52, Salvador, Sanctus Real, Sidewalk Prophets and me. Wow, what a line-up!

If you have any questions about going on these cruises, don't hesitate to contact me or Premier directly. I would love to have even more friends on board with me this year. And that means YOU!

Take care,

DonB!

Dual Citizenship? Minnesota & Maryland

2011-01-12T14:04:00.000-06:00

Hey folks,

I, along with my family, have been invited back to Sandy Cove ministries for the summer of 2011. We worked and ministered there last summer and had a great time, and look forward to doing it again this year. Just think: 102 degrees, countryside motorcycle rides, flying trapeze...

It seems that we have begun living summers in Maryland and winters in Minnesota. That seems so backward.

Please pray that all details can be worked out for our entire family. It would be a lot of fun to see our East Coast friends again, as well as all of the great people that work and stay at Sandy Cove.

See you then...

Overlooking Chesapeake Bay

Deb's sign she made for the craft shop

Typical Maryland Bug

Meeting Michael Card

Giant butterflies

Our favorite eating spot: Rita's Ice

A few of the crazy people you meet in Maryland.

DonB!

DonB! Art

2011-01-09T21:10:00.000-06:00

While at Camp Lebanon last night, I met a young girl, Lauren, after the show, and noticed that she had a sketch book with her. We talked for a few minutes, and I asked her if she had drawn any pictures of my show. I don't remember her exact words, but she (or someone in the group) said "You move too fast to draw."

Well, today a nice surprise arrived in my email: a sketch from Lauren. I love it!

Lauren has been sketching for many years, and her artwork of all styles and media can be found by clicking HERE, where Lauren says, "I try to be a Christian influence to those also on the site" Please check out her artwork, in order to support and encourage her.

Lauren, you are an amazing young lady. I hope that your artistic talents can be used to inspire many other people throughout your life.

Thank you so much for sending this. I love it.

DonB!

Camp Lebanon has DonB! for the 50th Time!

2011-01-09T20:57:00.002-06:00

I remember a time, back in 1989, when my wife, Debbie, and I decided that we were going to start utilizing our entertainment programs as outreach tools for churches and Christian organizations. We made some phone calls, and ran straight ahead...

Well here we are 22 years later, and we've been all over the world. We've now performed in almost all of the United States, plus Canada, India, Ukraine, Amsterdam, England, Mexico and Germany. I've also performed in the Bahamas 3 times, as well as "out on the sea" on 6 cruise ships (I've got 2 more cruise trips in 2011).

All of this to say that in 1989, we prayed that the right people would see our programs and find the value it could bring to their church or organization. Back then we were known as "Circus Unique".

"Bobber" Bill Abeler, from Camp Lebanon, in Upsala, Minnesota, called and invited us to come up for a family camp that year. I have now performed at Camp Lebanon every year since then (with a 1 year exception), and last night I presented my 50th show there for the MEGA-Overnight Event.

Camp Lebanon has grown so much, as well as DonB! Ministries, and Bill still calls us "Circus Unique", a name that I still love to hear.

Next Friday I will go back to Camp Lebanon and present show #51, and Bobber Bill will still laugh at my jokes and he'll still guffaw when Homer appears. There is no better sound than laughter.

Thanks Bill, and Camp Lebanon, for so many years of ministry. God is good, all the time.

DonB!

2 New Print Pieces for DonB!

2010-10-03T19:26:00.003-05:00

It takes a while, but with some persistence, feedback from friends who know what they are doing, and a lot of tweaking, I finally finished 2 new pieces of publicity materials for DonB!.

The first one is based on feedback over the years of my red poster. It looked great, but the photo didn't properly portray what my programs are about. So, with a simplified design, subtle color usage, and trying to remember that "empty space is good", here is my new poster:

If you have a booking coming up with DonB! Ministries, please call and request the new posters. Unless you want a really boring show, then don't use any posters at all. :)

The second piece I finished is the advertising for our new Dontar Machine. Based on the machine from the Tom Hank's movie, "BIG", we have created an "interactive LIVE robotic automaton." what is an "interactive LIVE robotic automaton", you say? It is a multi-use machine that contains a robotic living half person, designed to fit over 25 different themes, that can come to life and drop prizes to participants.

The pirate drops foil chocolate coins. "Grandma Bea" gives away funny, comical advice, the type your Grandma probably gave you at one time. The casino dealer can either perform mechanical card routines, or give away prizes that fit into a casino-night themed party.

Other characters include "ASYLUM S.K.P.", for halloween parties, "Dontar" the comedy fortune-teller, "Elf Magic", featuring Santa's tallest elf performing magic, and giving away real magic tricks. Others include the "Cheeky Magician", "Wisdom of Solomon" for Christian events, and your usual "Gypsy"-styled fortune-teller, giving away comedy fortunes.

Here is that new poster, already in the hands of 4 talent agencies in the Midwest:

Our first booking with the machine is this Thursday at the University of Minnesota, as a promotion for their extracurricular programming. I will be in the box as a goofy, malfunctioning cheerleader, giving away pom-pom and megaphone keychains. Pictures to follow.

Have a great week everyone,

DonB!

A Week in Georgia

2010-08-29T22:25:00.002-05:00

After leaving Maryland, Dale & I ventured down to Georgia, to perform and teach at the TnT Clown Conference. The conference ran a week, and we stayed busy the whole time.

I taught many people, including Dean Cook, to juggle.

Dale even taught an impromptu class on bead dogs, stars and cross necklaces.

On Saturday, we all did an outreach event in downtown Toccoa, and Dale tried his hand at some strolling juggling.

Some of the 100+ clowns headed into town for a community event.

Headmover, still funny looking.

Ball Juggling, during my show

Homer, in a moment of adrenaline

A goofy moment with an audience volunteer.

Freemounting the 7-footer. This photo is just a second before I came tipping to the ground, then off the front of the stage. It all happened in slow motion, and I survived with only a carpet burn on my knee & elbow. PHOTO CREDIT: All show photos by Jerry Godolphin

After the conference, Dale & I headed up to Yankton, South Dakota, to perform a show at a senior activity center for Grandparent's Day. Another good show, and then we headed home to Minnesota.

DonB!

Summer in Maryland

2010-08-29T21:58:00.000-05:00

This summer, Debbie, Dale and I spent it working at Sandy Cove Ministries in North East, Maryland. Debbie helped run the craft cottage, Dale was the unofficial camp gopher, and I did shows, taught classes and helped M.C. the brown bag family devotions each morning.

We had an opportunity to visit with some circus friends from my past, including Chris Shelton, who was the boss clown on Ringling Brothers Circus way back in 1985, during my short stint on the road.

On our drive to the east coast, we made a day long stop at Cedar Point amusement park in Sandusky, Ohio. We rode just about every roller coaster they have there. By the way, they have 21 roller coasters!

I'll let the photos tell the rest of the story.

120 miles an hour, straight up.

Dale, going stir crazy in the van

Debbie completed a triathlon, in the pouring rain.

I went parasailing one day.

Dale, with a submarine in Baltimore Harbor

We saw HUGE butterflies all summer long

We made some great friends.
Normal? Who wants normal?!?

We loved eating Rita's Frozen Ice on the hot days. Mmmmm...

We saw old friends. This is one of our weird ones, David P.

And did I mention going stir crazy in the van?

When Deanna joined us for a week, we went to Washington D.C., and visited the Holocaust Museum, as well as the Smithsonian Air & Space Museum. That's Deanna, with the original Wright Brother's plane.

We had a great summer of fun, of ministry and an experience that we will remember for a long time.

We saw friends from our past, made many new ones, rode our motorcycles through the small roads of Maryland and Delaware.

However, no matter how much we enjoyed our time away, there's no place like home. We left Minnesota on June 16th, and returned home on August 15th. 2 months.

And now, we continue on with our regularly scheduled online newsletter posts...

DonB!

The Amazing "Dontar" Machine is Done!

2010-06-15T23:03:00.001-05:00

I have been working on a project for about 2 years, and it finally has come to fruition.

If you've ever seen the movie, BIG, with Tom Hanks, then you may remember the machine on the boardwalk that Tom's character made a wish at, so that he could become big. Well, I've always been intrigued by mechanical arcade games and automatons, so I set about making one for myself. However, this one has many theme possibilities, and is also different in one main aspect: it has a live, living half-person inside of it.

Watch this video and you'll get a better idea of what it looks like, as well as what it can do:

Now THAT'S Cool!!!

The wooden and plexi components were built by Tim Anderson, here in Mora, and I put together the mechanical and electrical parts with the help of my neighbor, Jim, who is an electrician. After 6 months of planning, building and tweaking, it is finally done.

If you would like to see this machine appear at one of your events, give me a call, and we can talk about the various themes we already have for it, as well as more that you may think of.

I can't wait to get it out in public and start using it.

DonB!

DonB! Does Corporate Work Too.

2010-05-18T18:27:00.001-05:00

Last night, I had the opportunity to put my close-up magic skills to the test.

I was invited, along with good friend, Craig Carlson, to bring 2 hours of interactive magic entertainment to a group of Minnesota ophthalmologists. (Eye doctors from all over Minnesota) Craig and I passed juggling pins around some of the big wigs, I pulled signed cards from my pockets, Craig made juggling ball after juggling ball disappear for one astute lady, and we both had fun convincing guest after guest that the 3-shell game is NOT rigged, and that they COULD win. (cough) liars (cough) One lady played the game at least 20 times before finally winning!

I miss doing the corporate interactive entertainment, and wish I could perform it even more than I do. However, it makes it even more fun when the events are spread out.

Don't we look dapper?

Until we get to "magish" again,

DonB!

Don takes a (very) short road trip

2010-05-18T18:19:00.000-05:00

Last Wednesday, my friend, Mike Norton, and I, left Mora at 7AM, and drove down to Minneapolis to pick up one more friend, Ben Christensen. We gassed up the van, and headed toward Chicago. We were home the next morning by 7:30 AM.

Every year, right before the Magic Collector's Weekend (yes, there is such a thing), there is a magic flea market near Schaumburg, Illinois. Magicians come from around the country to buy and sell their used magic props, illusions and books. Mike & I decided it was time to do a little magic house cleaning of our own, and gathered about $800.00 worth of things we were intent on selling. We did well.

All combined, the three of us sold about $700.00 worth of props and books we no longer use. That's the good news.

Don, at the booth.

The flip side is that we were also going with our eyes open for items that we could add to our own shows, and we did. Mike can now make it seem as if a kid can float in his show. Ben can make it seem as if his head, covered in a small box, can spin 360 degrees in any direction, in a very comical fashion. I found a great book for $40 (retails for $150), a famous magic prop called Mental Epic for $40 (retails for $250), as well as some smaller items that I can use in my shows and close-up magic gigs.

As soon as the flea market was over, we loaded up our wares and took off back to Minnesota. We drove through the night in order to get back to Minnesota in time to meet our obligations elsewhere.

It was a lot of driving, and many miles, but all in all, we came home with a little more money than we left with, and each of us found some really neat bargains.

We've decided we're going to do it again next year. Same bat-time, same bat channel.

DonB!

Check out this page! DonB! is going cruising again!

2010-05-11T12:07:00.000-05:00

As I mentioned in an earlier posting, I have been invited to perform on the K-Love Friends & Family Music Cruise in February 7-11, 2011. The website that lists the confirmed entertainment (so far) can be found HERE.

It is always an honor to be on the same page with folks like tobyMac, Casting Crowns, Newsboys, Matthew West and Bob & Larry.

Interested in going cruising with me? Click HERE for more information. Tell them DonB! sent you.

DonB!

Hand Shadows are fun. And scary?

2010-05-10T10:13:00.000-05:00

Last Saturday, while performing in Fort Wayne, Indiana, there were two small "smart lights" on the floor of the stage. So, in the middle of the show, I thought I would take advantage of one of them and performed an abbreviated version of my hand shadow act on the closest wall.

I made a wolf shadow, and had him bark, making people giggle a little. I then made a bunny rabbit, and people made quiet "aawwww" sounds. I then transformed one hand into the bunny, and the other into the wolf. As one little girl made sense of the shadows, it suddenly occurred to her the dilemma that the bunny was now in. (He could get eaten by the wolf). The girl started crying, sobbing "noooo, nooooo,..."

I explained that it was only a shadow, and to ease her discomfort, made a really nice kitty cat shadow for her. Again, I think she still was feeling the sadness over the possibility of the bunny getting eaten, so I "disassembled" the kitty cat, showed her my hands were back to normal, and went on with the show as scheduled.

It is amazing how complicated the mind of children can be, in that two shadows were able to be "real" in her mind.

It makes me wonder what it would take to "un-complicate" our adult minds, filled with life's worries and responsibilities, and become as children once again. Life would be so much simpler. As long as we don't encounter those hand shadows again. :)

I'll leave you with this fun one:

DonB!

A comment from my Fort Wayne show

2010-05-10T09:59:00.003-05:00

I always love to hear from folks that were at my shows, and here is one from my show this weekend:

We really enjoyed your Fort Wayne show Saturday night. We were lucky to be front and center 3rd row. I was the mom with the 2 little ones on my lap and a look of panic on my face when you were on the tall unicycle. =) My 4 1/2 yr old daughter was mesmerized and wanted to know when it was her turn to have the stage with you. She wanted you to pass the bottle through her. She talked about the show the rest of the night and into the next day. Loved the message that was delivered with the show as well. Great family entertainment, so happy we came!

Blessings,
April

Fun Photo from Sens de Vie tour

2010-05-09T20:37:00.001-05:00

While performing in Ada, Oklahoma, EverLife went out to sing, but Sarah's microphone fell off the stand. I went out to fix it, but found that the threads had broken off inside of the boom. In order for the girls to sing their song, I chose to sit quietly on the floor and hold Sarah's microphone.

Even though one song doesn't seem too long, holding that old-fashioned microphone, along with the boom, made my arm start to shake near the end of the song.

I thought it was fun, and thought you may enjoy the photo.

Photo by Zuri Louis

DonB! at Central Ministries, Fort Wayne, Indiana

2010-05-08T20:24:00.000-05:00

I just returned to the hotel after a nice show at Central Ministries in Fort Wayne, Indiana. The audience was made up primarily of families with kids. Many kids. And that's what makes my shows so much fun, even for me.

I presented my "EVAN-tastic" full evening show, and now I'm tired. Of all my shows, this one is the most energetic, since it utilizes the "best of" all of my shows, all rolled into one 90 minute show. Ring juggling. Cups & Balls, Headmover, Ropes, Bowling Ball production, Ball Juggling, Bottle through body, western rope spinning, bowling ball juggling, plate spinning, Message, and finishing up with the full unicycle medley. 90 minutes of almost full-on energy, and I LOVE IT!

Thanks to Phil Miller for allowing me another opportunity to not only entertain, but to share the Gospel with the families that were there.

I LOVE my job!!!

Don

How thin can I stretch myself?

2010-05-04T12:32:00.000-05:00

After being teased for many years about how thin I was, I am finally holding a healthier weight. But now, the thinness comes in the form of involvement. I ask myself, how thin can I stretch myself?

Just last week I was nominated to my church's board of stewards last week, and our first meeting is next Thursday. My official title is Worship Ministry Team Representative, overseeing many of the aspects involved with the actual services at church.

I know it will be a challenging year ahead, but with God's grace and His strength, I know that it has the potential of being a great year ahead for all of Emmanuel Baptist Church.

Please pray, that as my church goes into the new fiscal year, that we can all unite together, for growth and ministry. It can be difficult when there are so many different personalities, but it IS possible to work together for the greater cause of ministry within our community.

I look forward to serving my church, and I hope I can be a part of the future growth of the Christian community within Mora.

I will also be spending 7 weeks in Maryland this summer, performing and speaking at Sandy Cove Ministries in North East, Maryland. Debbie & Dale will be there with me for the entire 7 weeks, and Deanna will join us for one of those weeks (she will be a nanny in Mora the rest of the time). I will be performing throughout the weeks, as well as leading the morning family devotions each day. Debbie will be running the craft building, and Dale will have the high position of "camp gopher", filling in wherever he is needed each day.

While in Maryland, we will have most weekends off, so we intend to take a day trip to Washington D.C., as well as one to New York City if our schedule allows it.

Right after Maryland, I will head down to Georgia for 1 week of performing and teaching at the TNT Clown Conference in Toccoa, Georgia.

I'll get back to Mora, MN, in time to spend 3 weeks cleaning the house, before school starts up again.

As busy as it seems, there is no other life I would choose. I love it. My family loves it.

God is good, all the time.

DonB!

"Sens de Vie" Tour is done for this year

2010-05-04T12:18:00.001-05:00

Well, another year of touring with the "Sens de Vie" show has come to an end. We covered a good portion of the country, and finished up fairly close to home. At least for me.

We traveled to Panama City, Florida, where we actually has enough time to throw a Frisbee around on the beach for a couple of hours. Here is the crew from that day:

Front: David, Amber, Don

Back: Adam, Zuri, Sarah, Bex, Beth, Julia, Katie, Harris

While waiting in Nashville for 4 days, we had some time to go geocaching, and my favorite cache location was this statue of guitar legend, Chet Atkins. The tiny geocache was hidden up, under Chet's bronze jacket. Wish I could have met the real Chet.

While in Georgia, I had the great opportunity to meet up with a friend, Luke Davis, and his Mom, Laura. I met Luke at the TNT Clown Conference a few years agao, and have kept in touch via the phone. I was glad that they made the trip over to see the show, and so that Luke could see how my clowning and slapstick are still developing after all these years.

Our show in Ada, Oklahoma, took place in a newly renovated place, the McSwain Theatre. The Chickasaw Nation purchased the theatre, and spent untold amounts of time and money to renovate it back to it's historical condition when it was new in the early 1900's. The woodwork, the stage, the velour; it was all incredibly redone. I think it was the classiest place I've performed in a long time. And the crew there was amazing. Servants at heart, wanting to make everyone look and sound the best that we could. And, I was happy to see my name scrolling across the marquee outside.

As Navin Johnson would say, "Look, I'm somebody!!!"

On the last 4 day leg of the tour, all of the driving was to happen at night. To avoid the need for any of us to do the driving, we travelled on a really nice tour bus, pulling all of the equipment in the trailer.

In Eldora, Iowa, we parked below a large wind turbine, and I thought it would make a nice picture.

As great as the tour was, it ended on somewhat of a sadder note. First, I found out that a good friend, who had a very progressive form of cancer, had passed away on that Sunday. As for the rest of the tour group, they were warned of the massive flooding in the Nashville area, where they live. Here are two pictures, the first is of us resting in the park about 2 weeks ago. The second one is that same park, completely under about 4 feet of water.

Please pray for the family of the cancer patient friend of mine, as well as the folks from Nashville that have been hit so hard by the rain and storms.

DonB!

I am very touched, humbled and gracious.

2010-04-27T08:46:00.003-05:00

This last weekend was a very busy one for me. A quick summary would be:

3 days, 2 shows, 2010 driving miles through 7 states, 2 audiobooks, 7 podcasts, 1 rental car, 1 lost wallet (later found), and a return to home when it was all done.

My last program was in Yankton, South Dakota, which I am finding has many connections with my own town of Mora, MN.

Last night, as I laid in bed, I checked me email one more time, and was reminded just one more time why there even IS a DonB! Ministries. Here is the email, with the identity of the writer protected (typos have been left intact):

MESSAGE:
Don came to Calvary Baptist Church in Yamkton on April 25th 2010...I have been going through a really hard time over the last year and drifted away from church. On April 19 2010 my dad passed away and I slipped into a huge state of anxiety and depression. I came to church for the first time in like a year on the 25th and heard Don was gonna be there that night so i decided to go. For the first time since my dad ended up in ICU and on life support then passed away, i laughed and had a real smile. i was able to focus on the things I do have like God. I just wanted him to know how greatful i am that he came right when he did. in my mind it was a God thing. I needed that. I was ready to give up on life and throw everything away. after Don preformed at the church...i felt like it was okay to be happy. my dad would not want me to give up and i may not have my earthly father any longer...he is my gurdian angel now. but i still have my heavenly father...Don helped me realize that with God I can heal...so thanks Don. You helped give me back the hope that i thought i had lost and could never get back. in time i know i will heal and it will get eaiser and giving up is not an option.

I was absolutely touched and humbled. I simply responded to her:

XXXXXXX,

You have no idea how much you have now blessed me.

Making people laugh is the strange gift that God has blessed me with, and I know that God has put me in the right place at the right time on many occasions. Your comments mean more to me than anything else.

If you were blessed by my program, please give God all the glory. His mercies endure forever.

With great love and thanks,

Don Bursell
DonB! Ministries

Some ministries seem "big", and some seem small. I'm simply thankful that God has put me where He has, when He has. And for this young lady, "He who began a good work in you, will see it through to completion". Philippians 1:6

Humbled,

DonB!

DonB! creates in another direction

2010-04-06T22:37:00.006-05:00

My brother, Bob, plays in a band named "Juan Roberto and the Bubble Bakery Orchestra". For an upcoming show they are doing, I created a poster, basing the design on one of their songs, "Tightrope Dancer".

Another piece that I put together was the opening splash page of their website, using floating bubbles (you'll have to go to their website to see the floating bubbles effect).

Check out their music and schedule www.juanrobertobbo.com

It has been fun creating new things, and learning more about Photoshop and Illustrator at the same time.

And now, off to tour for a month with Harris III, EverLife, and the show, "Sens de Vie". See you on tour.

DonB!

Kidz Blazt 2010

2010-03-10T11:39:00.007-06:00

Kidz Blazt 2010 is a conference of kids and leaders from Wisconsin and Northern Michigan, all gathered together at the Kalahari Water Resort in the Wisconsin Dells. They spent the weekend playing at the waterpark, but they also attended classes that can help each of them be more bold in their faith. The theme was "Rock the World", and those kids were-a-rockin!!!

I had the opportunity to perform and speak during the three large sessions, and here are a couple of videos that one of the leaders (known as "flossindaflava") posted from the conference.

First, the unicycle:

And here is the plate spinning:

I had a blast, but can you tell from the video clips that I was having fairly bad asthma

problems during both routines?

Life is good though. No complaints from me.

DonB!

The Great Audience in Detroit Lakes, MN

2010-03-04T09:38:00.004-06:00

Here is the great audience I had last night in Detroit Lakes, MN., at Community Alliance Church. It is funny how mellow they all went when I snapped this.

Earlier in the day I did an assembly for the 1st-5th graders at Roosevelt Elementary School, and they were great also.

Thank you to Connie Johnson for arranging both programs in the same day. Plus, her son rides a unicycle! How cool is that?!?!

See if you can find yourself in the picture...

Don

It's Such Great Frosting

2010-01-29T08:24:00.006-06:00

James 4:14

Last week, at Camp Lebanon in Minnesota, I did two shows, both of which were very high energy, and the audience is what I would call a "perfect" one. Kids and adults, all laughing REALLY hard. Feeding off of the frenzy, I used my absolute best improvisational skills to add lines here and there, try out funny moves, etc. Both shows were "perfect" shows for me.

Right after the 2nd show, while packing my sound equipment up in the sound booth, the 2 guys up there asked me the question I get quite often: "We were trying to figure it out: Do you mind us asking how old you are?"

I said I would tell them, but only if they tell me how old they THINK I am, along with any interesting reasons why they came up with that guess.

He answered simply, "By watching you and listening to you, you've had so many amazing experiences already in your life, it forces me to guess that you must be at least 50. Maybe even 55?"

I loved his reasoning, and told him that I was 44.

Later when I thought about it, I realized that he was indeed correct.

My time spent with circus travels, 3 years at Disneyland, 2 years of school tour performing that took Deb & I through 42 of the United States, and working cruise ships alongside many HUGE names in the music industry. I've flown on a flying trapeze, walked a tight wire 30 feet off the ground and rode my unicycle in the Atlantic, Pacific and Gulf of Mexico. I became a Christian in 1985 and have shared the Gospel in at least 5000 shows since then. I've been to Canada, Mexico, Jamaica, Bahamas, Ukraine, India, England, Germany and Amsterdam.

I actually have more friends OUTSIDE of Minnesota than I do INSIDE my home state. And the "inside" group is pretty big.

All of this before my 40th birthday!

I remember commenting to my wife, when I was about 40, that I felt that I had done so much in my life already, that if I were to die tomorrow, I could do so very happy. Very "complete" and very fulfilled. I remember also saying that "everything from here on out is really just frosting on the cake."

Well I have to admit, the frosting is really, really good. Here are some things I've done since turning 40:

More cruise ships, huge music festivals, multiple tours with other performers, including the "Sens de Vie" Shows twice and the L.O.L. tour with my 2 buddies, Randy & Ben Christensen. I've spoken and performed at national conferences, as well as taught on Wednesday nights to the 1st-4th graders at my home church.

I have taught myself how to use PhotoShop and InDesign (two HUGE computer programs). I continue to add new routines to my shows. I still read at least 30-60 minutes every day from books in my library (origami boxes, circus history, magic history, magic tricks and routines, Christian topics, the Bible, promotional materials, graphic arts, old movies).

I've watched our 2 kids grow up way too fast (something I wish WOULD slow down). Point: Our little curly-haired Deanna, goes to test for her driver's license on Monday. Wait a minute: little kids are not supposed to drive!!!

I remember, as I was growing up, always looking for that one experience that would make my life "complete,", or convince me that I had "made it". I realize now that it was ALL of those little details that have made my life complete. Not just one of those things. All of them together.

It's pretty incredible that the "cake" that made up the first 40 years of my life was so amazing, but I have to say, the frosting is even better. I get to enjoy it for the next 40+ years, and I can only imagine what is still in store. What will I have with my frosting?

Something to think about: What are you doing? Where are you at? Are you still mixing ingredients? Are you enjoying the cake? Are you savoring the great frosting?

Because it really is GREAT FROSTING!

DonB!

Matthew 6: 19-21

New artwork for DonB!

2010-01-26T16:02:00.005-06:00

I have been experimenting with some new artwork to be used within DonB! Ministries, and here is one of the first trials:

The plan is to have pictures available after each program. Kids, and adults, can take them, color them, cut them up, and do any artistic treatment to it. They can them send it to me in the mail or over the internet, and I will draw from the returned ones, awarding some free DVDs or DonB! t-shirts to the winners.

The unicycle one is next, followed by the juggling one, and then a plate-spinning one. However, each one can take up to 4 hours to complete, so it may be a while between the completion of each one.

Alright, copy this to your computer, and color it. Send it to me. The 5th one I get back will get one of my DonB! T-Shirts as well as my new "illusions!" magic DVD.

DonB!

UPDATE (1-26-2010): Here is the next one, and please, no Herman Munster jokes.

New Sens de Vie video is Online

2010-01-05T08:09:00.004-06:00

After selling out the entire tour in the Fall of 2009, we are doing it again in 2010: We are touring with the "Sens de Vie" show across the United States.

The new video has been posted, and you can see it HERE.

Enjoy the video, and then entertain the idea of having "Sens de Vie" perform in YOUR CITY.

DonB!

Oh, I saw you on TV last night

2009-12-24T09:46:00.002-06:00

Last night, on our way to California, we were interviewed on the news regarding our travels.

Here is the link to the video:

http://www.kare11.com/video/default.aspx#/Local/Delta+already+canceling+Thursday+flights+at+MSP/48173211001/48322959001/58898377001

DonB! "illusions!" DVD released

2009-12-19T14:12:00.005-06:00

Well, it wasn't finished in time for Christmas, but it is done.

My second DVD, titled "illusions!" is ready for purchase.

On the DVD I perform, and then teach, 15 really good magic tricks. All of the tricks can be performed with things found around your house, such as paperclips, dollar bills, paper cups, paper, paper cups, communion cups, a piece of rope, a ping-pong ball, rubber bands, envelopes and playing cards or pictures.

I also have a trick that has been hiding in multiple books for years, titled "Ticket to Heaven", which is a simple object lesson that anyone (and I mean anyone!) can perform, either with words or to music.

If you click on this LINK, and click on the ROTATE button at the top of the screen, you can view the contents inside, plus see the wonderful artwork (thank you Photoshop).

The DVD is only $10.00 plus shipping. If you order more than one copy, the site will automatically calculate shipping discounts.

Once you get your copy, please let me know what you think, or what you'd like to see on the next one. I value your feedback on anything I do, so don't hesitate to let me know your thoughts.

Also, watch this newsletter for the release of my origami DVD, expected by March 1st. It covers basic-intermediate origami, some utilizing dollar bills (great for tips at a restaurant).

Click HERE to order "illusions!", or if you would like to order the JUGGLING DVD (including 3 really nice juggling scarves) I released last year, you can order that from my website by clicking HERE.

To everyone that finds this newsletter, have a very merry Christmas.

DonB!

James 4:14

2009-11-30T14:02:00.007-06:00

Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. -James 4:14

How short and precious life really is.

Yesterday I saw an email that made reference to a small plane crash just outside of Tampa. Within the article I saw a name that I knew, and my heart sank.

Dave Berman was my juggling instructor in Clown College, as well as a friend for many more years following my circus days. He was a full-time performer for many years, and then decided to settle into Sarasota, Florida, as a UPS driver. Some years back he took up flying, and purchased a small plane, flying it successfully many times.

Witnesses said they heard sputtering as the plane was taking off yesterday, and the plane then nosedived to the ground, flipping onto its top. When rescuers arrived on the scene, both people in the plane were pronounced dead. Dave was only a couple of years older than me.

-------------

Life is short.

Eternity is forever. I rest, knowing that my friend, Dave, knew Christ personally, and is sitting with him this day. In peace.

Please pray for Dave's wife, Nancy, as well the rest of his family at this time. I cannot imagine what they are going through.

Thanks for sharing with me,

Don

DonB! appears in Everlife video

2009-10-29T20:30:00.001-05:00

Alright, it's not an official video, but one that they recorded on the last tour. I appear for a moment, making a comment about Sarah getting cut in half during rehearsals

Click HERE to see it.

DonB!

Home after touring, but only for a few days

2009-10-29T19:22:00.004-05:00

Recently I've had the opportunity to perform with two of my favorite illusionists. The first one is a friend that I made way back in 1989, when Debbie & I travelled with his illusion show, Toby Travis. Toby was in Minnesota performing in Lindstrom, and he invited me to perform some of my things in the shows. I had a great time, and was able to swap life stories with Toby once again.

After the programs (we did 2 of them) we looked through the comment cards, and I found 2 that mentioned me.

This one reads: "DonB - you're a dynamo!
The other one simply said:

I also have been traveling for the last 12 days with illusionist, Harris III, and his show, "Sens de Vie". As stated in a previous entry, there are 10 of us on the road for this tour. Harris, his wife, Katie, Beth (road manager), David (sound engineer), Adam (lighting engineer), the 3 girls from Everlife, their friend, Aaron, and myself.

On my last flight to meet them, I boarded the plane right behind actor, Hugh Grant. I had actually been talking with him in the terminal for 10 minutes before realizing who he was. I didn't want to hound him for a picture, so this is as good as it gets. I know, no photography awards for me.

I had some time while on tour to do a little sight seeing and geocaching, and while out running around, Adam & I found this place:

It is where Jimmy Buffet got his start as a college student playing music on campus. If you look in the lower tight hand corner you can see his name listed along with other greats that have performed at this club.

On the entire tour, we played to sold-out houses, and received very warm standing ovations at the end of every show.

My own personal moment is as all of us are introduced to run out onstage for our final bows, I get many loud whoops and hollers when I run out there. I love to know that the audience appreciates what I do in the show. Warm fuzzies...

Here is a strange picture I took of the Sawing in Half illusion sitting under the glowing red of the backstage lamps. This is one of my favorite illusions in the entire show. For the last 2 performances, Sarah, from Everlife, was the lady that was sawn in half. Neat integration of her into the illusion part of the show.

I'll finish up with some fun, random photos taken while on tour. Here they are...

Getting ready to go onstage and spin my plates. I set a new record: 16 plates broken in one show. That's a lot of trips to the Dollar Store.

Our second show took place in this auditorium. What you can barely see are the full extended bleachers on each side that were full about an hour after this picture was taken. They were a VERY excited crowd.

Amber, Julia and Sarah

Everlife

Katie Harris, playing Jazz Singer-like dress-up backstage during set-up.

Don, David & Adam, out geocaching on the campus of the college where we performed that night.

I leave you with some words of wisdom from 2 Corinthians:

2 Corinthians 12:9
But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.

DonB!

DonB! back on the road with "Sens de Vie" Show

2009-10-20T22:51:00.005-05:00

I flew to Nashville last week, and arrived with 2 of my 3 suitcases. The other 2 arrived later that night and were delivered to us where we were rehearsing.

This tour is lead by illusionist Harris III. The music on the tour this time is Everlife, 3 sisters (Sarah, Julia, Amber) originally from Pennsylvania, now living in Nashville. Some of you may know them from a tour they did with the Jonas Brothers and Miley Cyrus. They are really very talented, and their music can be found on iTunes and YouTube. Here they are doing sound check at rehearsals:

We were looking forward to taking out a new illusion, one we refer to as "Chateau", a play on the word "shadow". Now that we've performed it twice onstage, I really like it. I get to perform some basic hand shadows before the shadows begin transforming into Harris, the magician.

After 2 days of rehearsal and illusion building, the RV rig was loaded, and we headed out on the road.

On Sunday we drove to Moss Point, Mississippi, and loaded into a beautiful theatre there.

We did two shows, both of them completely sold out.

The next day, Katie Harris' dog, Tucker, was having problems with his eye. A quick stop at the vet resulted in eye medicine that turned his eye green, making him look like an evil one-green-eyed dog:

The only injury of the tour was during the 2nd show, when I made the mistake of trying to re-spin one of my spinning plates, but not noticing that it had a sharp chip on one side. I slit the tip of my right hand middle finger, so I finished the routine with my hand in a fist. I ran off stage and ran it under water, and then realized how deep it really was. I did not have it checked for stitches, but probably should have. Oh well.

On the way home we made a quick stop at Arby's and I took a group photo:

Me, Harris, Katie, Adam (lights), Beth (road manager) and Dave (sound tech)

Now we have 2 days off back here in Nashville, then a day of rehearsal, and back on the road again. Be sure to take a look at my website to see if/when I will be in your area of the country.

Until next time...

Come to OHIO and see DonB!

2009-10-06T11:55:00.002-05:00

Here is the poster from Austintown Community Church, where I am performing this weekend:

If you are anywhere nearby, please come over, enjoy the food and catch one, or both, of the shows.

DonB!

DonB! at KidZ BlaZt 2010

2009-10-05T07:47:00.003-05:00

Here is a LINK to the website promoting my performances at the Wisconsin/Northern Michigan District Assemblies of God kid's gathering at the Kalahari Resort in the Wisconsin Dells February 26th & 27th.

Should be a great time performing and ministering to all the kids and families that will be there.

Plus, I might get a chance to play on all of the water slides. YES!

DonB!

Smart words from the cafeteria

2009-09-22T08:43:00.007-05:00

It may seem strange that I would find inspirational words of wisdom at a museum, especially one as strange as Wisconsin's House on the Rock. But while I visited there last month with Ben & Randy Christensen, we took a few minutes to sit down and eat lunch in the public cafeteria. On each table throughout the room, sayings were carved into the tables, many of which I really enjoyed.

Here is one:

I love this one, maybe because I use it to justify my strange, but wonderful way of making a living.

Another saying that I've liked says, "Life doesn't consist in having what you want, but in wanting what you have". Here is one that goes alongside of that one:

It's not always about learning new things, but instead, figuring out ways to do the same old things with a new perspective. In the hard times of our economy, maybe one part of the solution isn't to change our circumstances, but to change our perspective on what we can do with what we already have.

Sometimes results come from personal sacrifice. If so, then this one makes complete sense:

Are we willing to pay the price of what it takes to accomplish great things in our lives? Or are we living in the age of "entitlement", where we should be allowed to have everything we want without the personal sacrifice it takes to reach those goals?

I am encouraged by what I have heard spoken lately from some teenagers. They are many times referred to as the "generation of entitlement", but I have heard quite a few of them talk or write about doing without, whether it is designer clothes, expensive hobbies, etc. To those teens I say, Right On! (How 80s is THAT saying?!?!?)

He was a smart man.

Over the years, another way that I have justified my performing for a living is by comparing myself to others that complain about their jobs, their bosses, their co-workers. And I've wondered, why not go out and find a job that you love? One that brings you some joy?

My work isn't all joy, but I sure do love it.

Kids have very active imaginations. They can be Superman today, and working with Legos on Mars tomorrow. Carl Sagan said this:

"Imagination will often carry us to worlds that never were, but without it we go nowhere."

Carl probably had a great imagination, but I fear that it could have taken him to a world that he never dreamed of or was willing to acknowledge.

When I was young, people would watch me learning to ride my unicycle, and would say "those are impossible". It wasn't, and here is a confirmative quote about it:

To a 10-year-old, nothing is impossible. Obstacles are ONLY illusions.

Another "enjoy your work" quote is this one:

And finally, to all the critics that think adults don't have time to play games, or that a 16-hour work day is the only way to succeed, I give you this wonderful quote from T.S. Elliot:

And now, I'm going to waste some time cleaning up my office. And yes, due to all of the weird and fun things I know I might encounter in there, I will make the best attempt to enjoy it.

Have a great day.

DonB!

My good friend is a new Dad!

2009-09-18T10:03:00.004-05:00

I want to tell everyone about the good news of one of my close friends.

His name is Mark Zubert (many of you know him already), and he and his wife, Erin, gave birth to Lincoln Beckett yesterday. Mom, Dad, brother Westin and new baby are all doing great.

To top it all off, today is Mark's birthday!!! A double hitter.

Congrats to the growing Zubert family.

Mark and Lincoln Zubert

Anyone want to attend a Photoshop Seminar with me?

2009-09-17T17:22:00.005-05:00

On October 21st, I plan on attending a seminar at the Minneapolis Convention Center to learn more about Adobe Photoshop.

The seminar is all day, for $99, and even though it is geared toward CS4 users, all Photoshop people will learn an extensive amount from it.

You can see more about it HERE

If you want to go, let me know, and I'll see you there.

DonB!

DonB! Partial Itinerary

2009-09-16T10:00:00.001-05:00

These are some confirmed dates so far:

Sept 16 - Faith Community Church - Hudson, WI (15th year in a row!)

Sept 19 - Private Party - Cambridge, MN

Sept 20th - First Free Church - Benson, MN

Oct 3, 4 - Michigan (strolling + 1 show)

Oct 9 - Ohio Outreach

Oct 10 - Lindstrom, MN with Toby Travis

Oct 18 - Sens de Vie - Tuscaloosa, AL

Oct 24 - Sens de Vie - Ashland, OH

Oct 25 - Sens de Vie - Pittsburgh, PA

Oct 27 - Greentree Church - Egg Harbor, NJ

Oct 31 - New Life Christian Center - Princeton, MN
Nov 6 - Sens de Vie - Ohio

Nov 12 - ForeverFriends - Wooddale Church - MN

So much in the works coming up: "Sens de Vie" tour, DonB! shows in 4 different states, 4 solid bookings for 2010, and a whole new year ahead of me. Isn't life grand?

DonB!

Article Online includes DonB!

2009-09-10T10:40:00.001-05:00

I will be performing at Ashland University in October with illusionist, Harris III, and an article is online promoting the event. Click HERE to read it. It's a quick read.

DonB!

DonB! trip to the East Coast

2009-09-09T15:56:00.011-05:00

On Sunday, I left to begin my 10 day trip to the East Coast. In one day, I drove from Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Nashville, Tennessee. 14 hours if I drove it straight through, but I needed fuel and food throughout the day, so the trip lasted about 16.5 hours.

While in Nashville, I visited with BJ & Katie Harris, and we talked about some routines and ideas for the upcoming October Sens de Vie tour.

One afternoon, I decided to go out for a walk, and ended up at Bicentennial Park, right in front of the capital building:

I promised Debbie that I would try and eat healthy for this entire trip, so it was with great joy that Katie & BJ were also going healthy for the week. I was able to eat Katie's homemade spaghetti sauce, as well as homemade breads and desserts (healthy ones, of course):

The next day we all played Frisbee on the HUGE green lawn of the capital building. While reading all of the history of Tennessee at the park, I was able to have my picture taken in the outdoor amphitheater there. It is really big, and may be a possible site for a future program. Hmmmm.....

I left Nashville on Thursday, headed to Sandy Cove Ministries in North East, Maryland. On my way over, I was able to spend the evening with long time friends, David & Rachel Pribulick and their 3 intelligent kids (they all converse like adults).

At Sandy Cove I did one show on Friday evening for the 300+ people that were already there, and one little girl gave me flowers after the show. Nice.

When I arrived at Sandy Cove, I saw on the brochure that they had a trapeze set-up for summer, but I was disappointed to see it sitting here in the parking lot:

Sandy Cove has everything, ranging from tent camping all the way up to "The Lodge", with hotel-like accommodations. I stayed in this building:

On Sunday night, the entire 700+ campus of people were in attendance, and the house was rockin' I had opportunity to push my improv abilities to the limits with the fun, but interesting volunteers I chose from the audience. I love having kids onstage because you NEVER know what can happen. Kids think "in the moment", and react accordingly, making for entertainment with a twist at almost every show. Here I am, ready to go onstage...

Someone from my Ringling Brothers/Disney days, John Hadfield, drove over from Delaware to catch the show, and we went to dinner afterward. John ordered a crab-something-or-other sandwich, and when it arrived, there was no doubting what it was. It looked exactly like a crab, legs, eyes and all. John slapped in on a bun and crunched his way through the entire thing. Here's what I had to look at the whole time:

Yes, those are legs hanging out of the bun. Eeewwwwww.....

Then, as I made my way across Maryland towards home, I was able to stop and visit with another friend from Clown College '84 (yes, that's 25 years ago), Mr. Kevin Brown and his family. We went to breakfast, talked a little about magic, and did some great catching up of long ago memories. It was great to see him again.

Finally, what good is a drive across country if I didn't take time to stop and pick up a few geocaches? One of them actually takes you hiking down into a lowland park, and then back around the underside of a waterfall. Standing there, I just had to try and get a picture:

One was in a hilltop cemetary in the middle of PA:

And 2 were at Vietnam Veteran Memorials:

So amazing is this world we live in.

On Tuesday evening, Debbie met me at the airport (so that I could return the rental van), and we headed off to dinner together. No matter how nice the memories are of traveling on the road, THERE'S NO PLACE LIKE HOME.

Another trip in October, so watch for the story here.

DonB!

Pictures from TV Commercial

2009-08-22T12:26:00.006-05:00

Today I received some pictures from the commercial shoot that I participated in last month in Kansas City. Here are some of them:

Discussing how the shoot will go

Greg, Don, Tina, Terry, Karen, Dave, Toto, & Benny

Terry, on his tiny bike

Don, stuffed into the trunk

Must have been a good take

Catching my suitcase

As the car approaches the parking lot

And my odd favorite:

It was a lot of fun hanging with the clowns, and just as much fun with the filming crew. Some dressed as clowns for the day, others had on weird clown ties, etc. All in a day's work.

DonB!

Report on the L.O.L. Tour

2009-08-22T08:07:00.011-05:00

It is always nice to be home. Back to my family, my motorcycle, my hometown. However, this last tour was one of my favorites.

I travelled with Randy Christensen and Ben Christensen, and we toured for 12 days performing the L.O.L. Tour. Some have asked what L.O.L. stands for, and it is an abbreviation of "Laugh Out Loud" that people use when sending text messages from their cell phones. It was chosen as the title of this particular show because of its simplicity and how well it fit the description of our show.

Randy started planning this tour last year, and we rehearsed a few times, putting the individual elements together that would eventually become the show.

A few months back we "tested" it in Brainerd, MN., and it was met with great response from the audience and the sponsoring group.

On August 10th I drove over to Willmar, Minnesota to do the final run throughs, and then on Tuesday morning we set out driving, headed to our first show at Calvary Temple in Springfield, Illinois.

On our way, we made a short stop in Wisconsin Dells to play 18 holes of miniature golf. The scores fluctuated throughout the game, but Ben & I tied our scores. (to be continued...)

Randy, Ben & Don, after Golf: Round One

The first show in Springfield was on August 12th, primarily to a kid audience. Even with a couple of tiny rough parts in the show, it went really well.

The format of the show is that Ben, Randy & I all do our specialties, and throughout the show we combine our talents into complete routines, such as the ring juggling, diabolo and the finale. The show consisted of various routines involving mime, ball juggling, ring juggling, ventriloquism, slapstick physical humor, stand-up comedy, unicycles, diabolo juggling, magic illusions, plate spinning and really tall chair balancing (still makes me nervous every time). Randy does a Gospel presentation at the 3/4 mark of the show, and then we come back for the big finale. The show runs about 90 minutes, and was very well received by everyone.

For our second show, we drove up to Bloomington-Normal, Illinois, and played to a full house of really excited people at First Assembly, finishing the show with a standing ovation. Before the show, Ben & I borrowed our host's bikes and took a 2 mile trip and picked up a couple of geocaches.

Ben & Don getting exercise

While in Bloomington, Randy & Ben went to visit the historical Lincoln Museum. I was feeling a little antsy that day and was worried about standing around in a museum, so I went and geocached at Washington Park.

We then had a couple of days before the next show, so we made another quick stop in the Dells, played another 18 holes (to break the tie, of course), and once again Ben & I tied each other's scores.

Don, Ben & Randy, after Golf: Round Two

We then went over and visited the House on the Rock Museum. I highly encourage everyone to see this place. It is not only a house, but one of the most eccentric collections of amazing things ever gathered under one roof (actually multiple buildings). The house is amazing, but the museum was filled with incredible one-of-a-kind things.

The third show was at the Assembly of God church in Necedah, Wisconsin, pastored by Randy's brother. Not sure of what the attendance would be at the program, everyone was very happy when the sanctuary packed completely full at showtime. The laughter was especially loud and strong during this show, and the adrenaline was a rush to all of us performers. Maybe too much for Randy, as he threw his back out during a strenuous mime piece, called "Pop Machine".

We stayed in Necedah for two days, living in the Christensen's RV. It was very comfortable, but I felt bad that I kept Ben awake with my snoring.

We made a trip to Circus World in Baraboo, and saw some great shows, and met up with another clown from Minnesota, Neal "Roger" Skoy. He was a funny guy, and we enjoyed our short visit with him while there.

"Roger" and Don, after the Circus Show

While in Necedah, Ben & I borrowed two bikes again to ride around town and explore. We ended up finding a geocache on an army tank in town, but realized it was the only cache in this very scenic town.

So we assembled our own cache, filled it with official L.O.L. merchandise, and hid it right near the church that we performed at. It was found later the next day.

As we left Necedah, we took a detour into the Dells again, but this time so that Randy could have his back looked at/taken care of. Of course, Ben & I had to break our tie in mini golf during Randy's appointment. We played at Adventure Falls, and as you can see by the picture, I came out the victor.

We drove over to Crosspoint Church in Portage, WI., and performed to another full house, and finished once again with a standing ovation.

Our last performance was at Celebration Church in Green Bay, where Randy was once the children's pastor. The current senior pastor is Mark Gungor, with whom I travelled with a few years back during his "Laugh Your Way to a Better Marriage" conferences. This was our largest audience on this tour, with approximately 700 people filling the main sanctuary.

Our Travel-Mobile, now officially a "Cash for Clunkers" recipient

On our way home to Minnesota, Randy's van started having trouble getting into 3rd gear. We stopped to add transmission fluid, but it didn't need it. So we drove the last 2 hours at 40 mph. Getting bored, I resorted to making craft projects out of anything I could find in the van. Hence, this photo of with a clothespin picture frame. (It was a looonnnnggggg 2 hours)

The "L.O.L. Tour" was not meant to be evangelistic, and the message was a clear Gospel presentation by Randy, so I really have no numbers of decisions made during the tour. It was a great time to spend performing with 2 of my best friends, doing what we like best: sharing the joy of being a Christian with those that are willing to spend an evening with us.

It was a great tour. Ben & Randy are both such great performers, and it seems that all three of us think the same about what the program should be. It was a stress-free tour for me, and we all returned home safe and sound.

DonB!

From Unicycles to Motorcycle(s)

2009-08-07T21:47:00.004-05:00

When I was 16 years old I took a motorcycle safety course in Minneapolis and took the exam to get my motorcycle permit. I passed, and drove around Minneapolis for about a week. Knowing little about motorcycles I forgot to check the oil level and burned out the engine of my cool little Kawasaki 90:

Well, it's been 28 years and I've always wanted to get another "bike" to travel around home with. After mentioning it off & on for the last few weeks, my wife, Deb, simply said, "You're not getting any younger. Go get one."

So I started looking online for the right cycle. Not too big, but not so small that I would be disappointed in a month that it can't go where I want to go.

I checked eBay, Motorcycle Trader and Craig's List. I knew my parameters: must be able to maintain 55 mph in case I go on a highway, must be able to safely carry one other passenger, must be less than $1000.00 and must be in good/great condition.

After narrowing it down to 2 different cycles, and with feedback from my brother and father-in-law, I decided to purchase a 1982 Yamaha 400 Seca from a young man that was getting ready to ship off to basic training for the Navy.

It is a great cycle, but needs new tires and a basic overall check-up before I totally trust taking it out on the open road.

We made the drive to Rush City, MN, to find new helmets for us. Dennis Kirk is the largest supplier of after market cycle and snowmobile parts in the country. We found two nice helmets at a great price.

While the cycle is in for it's exam, Debbie & I went this morning for our motorcycle permit tests. We both passed with almost perfect scores.

The cycle should be ready for us by Wednesday. Sadly, I will be gone on tour until August 20th, so Deb will get to test it out while I am gone. I'll get my opportunity when I return.

Anyone else have a cycle and want to go riding some afternoon, please call me after the 20th of August. And my goal, if at all possible, is to avoid interstate highways and explore all the back roads of east central Minnesota.

Watch for us, wave and smile as we go by.

The L.O.L. Tour Promotional Video

2009-07-29T16:33:00.002-05:00

The promotional video for the variety show I am touring with in August is ready to see. Take a look HERE.

If your church is interested in booking the LOL Show into your church, please contact Randy Christensen at pastorrandy@willmarag.org

See you this Summer.

DonB!

Garrison Play Days

2009-07-29T10:08:00.004-05:00

Last weekend, Dale & I went up to Garrison, Minnesota, and performed for the Garrison Play Days Celebration.

On Saturday we rode our unicycles in the city parade, did some strolling entertainment in my stilts, and then did a show under the big top tent. The tent was completely packed with people by the end of the show, probably around 300-350 total.

On Sunday I did my version of "Jonah & the Whale" in the morning community service, did some more strolling entertainment prior to the afternoon show, and then did another show at 3PM under the big top. The crowd was smaller that day, but they were a fun bunch of folks from around the area.

I even had some geocachers from the area come up and talk after the program, so it was an added surprise.

Here is the program for the Sunday AM community church service:

Funniest Show last night

2009-07-24T14:00:00.002-05:00

My final Trout Lake Day Camp show last night was at First Baptist Church/New Hope Church in Cambridge, Minnesota.

I did my show in two sections. The first part went fairly normal. Fairly.

But the second part went weird somewhere. When I asked "Tim" up on stage to help during the toilet paper routine, everything seemed to be going just fine. Until we actually got to the stage.

Tim was acting as if he may have to go potty (gestures and dancing were my cue), so I muted my microphone and asked him. He said, "No", so I suggested he not "hold himself", or the audience may laugh at him. He "went normal". Until about 3 minutes into the routine...

When the 2nd toilet paper ball disappeared, I asked if it was hiding under the chair. He looked, sat back and said, "Nope,..." and I made the mistake of turning towards the audience, turning AWAY from Tim. He then continued his sentence by saying, "but it might be hidden in HERE." Before I could stop the train wreck that was about to happen, Tim practically stripped himself clean from the waist down. Thank heaven for Under-Roos. Keep in mind that Tim was about 9 years old.

I quickly blocked the view of the audience to Tim, while he re-clothed himself, and then I spun his chair to face the back of the stage (comedy improv moment). Well, with Tim's antics, and my reactions, the audience went into hysterics. (I realize you really had to be there to completely understand, but it was out-of-control FUNNY) With a few more improvised lines, and a the proper facial gestures of embarrassment, the funniness built to a spot that I could barely hold together. I was laughing. The audience was laughing. Tim may have been laughing. Tim's parents? I don't know what they were doing. But it was funny!

The routine eventually came to an end, coming in at almost 5 minutes longer than usual, and Tim was escorted back to his seat.

Then came the Unicycle Medley. The two kids that helped me were not as tangent as Tim, but the young boy was pretty close. (cough) ADHD (cough)

When I put him in his spot to stand, he was gone before I could turn away. I put him back again, and within a second, he was back again trying to uncover the hidden unicycles behind my curtain. I placed him there again, firmly said to remain there, and he (almost) did.

Every time I asked the audience, "Should we get a bigger one?!?!", the boy ran backstage to retrieve the next unicycle, even though he didn't know which one I really wanted.

It all went fine after all. Nobody died. Everyone laughed. I aged about 15 years in 10 minutes. And the senior pastor came up afterward to ask if I would come back and perform for their Christmas Party this year. "Sure," I said, "but NO toilet paper!"

I'm tired. :)

DonB!

Where have I been?

2009-07-24T12:45:00.009-05:00

What a Summer this has been! I've been all across the country, performed for groups as small as 30 and as large as 1200+. My travels have taken me to 5 different states, with completely varied climates and scenery.

On May 23rd I performed for the 44th time at Camp Lebanon, near Upsala, Minnesota. The crowd was excellent. "Bobber Bill", whom I refer to as my best publicist, got the crowd hyped for the show, and they remained hyped throughout the whole 50 minutes. The shows at Lebanon are ALWAYS fun, and never the same show twice (for Bill's benefit).

The beginning of June found me in Rockford, Illinois, performing for the National Junior Bible Quiz Championships. There were (I'm guessing) 30-50 teams from around the country, testing out their knowledge of Scripture. On opening night, I performed, and challenged them to remember that whether they "won" or "lost" the individual heats, they were all working toward the same goal: knowledge of the Bible. It was a fun trip.

I then headed to Nashville for 4 days to work with Harris III, and some magic props he was planning on selling. It was 90-95 outside, and even hotter inside the storage unit that I spent 2 days inside of. We got it all done, and were able to get some of the props into the hands of other performers around the country that could use them.

I drove right back to Braham, Minnesota, and performed, along with my son, Dale, for the retirees in Braham. It was a small room, with a small group of people, but they were so very grateful to have us come over and entertain/visit that one lady baked us one of her famous rhubarb pies. I LOVE rhubarb! After the show, Dale continued visiting and entertaining various folks for another 30 minutes with his antics. They liked me, they LOVED Dale.

The next day I performed another one of the Trout Lake Day Camp Finales that I've been doing over the Summer. A few have asked what these camps are, so I'll tell you.

Trout Lake has some staff go into churches, and they plan and run an entire 4 day vacation Bible school at the churches. Well, when the program director, James Rock (that's him above), and I were talking about the day camps, I had an idea: I don't have money to donate to Trout Lake Camp, but I CAN donate time and my abilities. So, Trout Lake asked if I would be the "Finale Night" entertainment, and I said, "Yes." I performed at 7 of them this Summer, at churches around Minnesota and Wisconsin. My final one last night was an unbelievable way to end the Summer day camp "tour". More about this in a minute.

The next day I performed for the VBS of my parent's church, House of Hope Lutheran in New Hope, MN. Even though there were a lot of kids there, I was really happy about how many "older" folks came out for the show and enjoyed it. I love when everyone in a church gets involved with the shows. Another great show.

The next day I did some strolling entertainment on my stilts at Valleyfair in Shakopee, MN., for a private party in the picnic area. Thanks to A Touch of Magic for sending me out on that gig. I look forward to more like that.

I flew out the next morning to Issaquah, Washington, for 3 days of performing at Eastridge Christian Assembly, nestled way up in the rolling hills just East of Seattle. I have to say, I cannot get enough time in the mountains to satisfy; they are incredible, and more so every time I see them. I was able to take an evening and visit my cousin, Brandon, who currently lives in the Seattle area too.

I flew back on Thursday morning and drove right to my first of two Trout Lake camps in that day, one in Maple Grove, MN., and another in Champlin, MN. (Yes, it was a very full day).

At the end of June I flew down to Missouri to participate in the filming of a tv commercial for Kansas City International Airport. Wanna see the commercial? Click HERE. I'm the one on the unicycle. Duh.

I quickly flew home and did another Trout Lake Day Camp, and then took off for Sheboygan, Wisconsin, to ride in a parade and to perform in the evening for Praise Fellowship. Another very full day.

In and amongst all of the other 1-day things I did throughout July, I did 3 more Trout Lake Day Camps, strolled on my stilts for 4 hours in Andover, MN., performed as Paul Bunyan (on my stilts) for the International Lions Club Convention in Minneapolis, and got a few good nights of sleep in between somewhere.

Tomorrow, Dale & I are are driving up to Garrison, MN, to ride in a parade, perform during a Sunday service, and do 2 shows under the "Big Top" tent during the Garrison Fun Days.

It has been a busy, and rewarding Summer for myself and my family.

Talk again soon.

DonB!

Summer is here!

2009-06-10T19:27:00.003-05:00

After school was out, and after we attended 8-10 graduation parties, Summer has arrived.

I leave tomorrow for Rockford, Illinois, to perform at the National Junior Bible Quiz Finals.

I then drive over to Nashville for 4 days to do some rehearsals for the October "Sens de Vie" shows that are booking onto the calendar. So far, Ohio, North Carolina and Alabama have confirmed bookings, and there are a lot more inquiries coming in every day. The show will look a little different this Fall than it did in the Spring. Two of the biggest illusions are gone, and replaced by some one-of-a-kind things that very few shows have ever done. I can't say much, but I have a unique part in the show, performing a routine that I have only performed 3 other times in my life. I can't wait to tell you...

When I return from Nashville I will have one day off, then right into 8 days of shows, including 4 of those days in Issaquah, Washington. An early morning flight there, and a middle of the night red-eye flight back to Minnesota in order to get back in time for my 2 shows on the 25th here in Minnesota. I love being busy, especially when so many other people are out of work at this time.

See you all again really soon...

DonB!

New DonB! Ministries website is up

2009-05-22T10:33:00.004-05:00

It's here!!!

Take a look at it!!!

The new DonB! Ministries website is up and running.

Albert Kiteck helped put the site together, including the FLASH animation on the home page. I'm really happy with the site, especially that I am able to make changes to many of the pages on my own, including calendar dates, comments from churches, and pictures on the MEDIA page.

Check it out, send your friends to view it, and contact Albert for your next website.

Don

The L.O.L. Tour

2009-05-22T09:57:00.007-05:00

Don - Ben - Randy

L.O.L. = Laugh Out Loud

My good friend, Pastor Randy Christensen, puts together a group of performers just about every year, and does a 7-10 day tour with the show.

This year, Randy, along with his son, Ben, came up with the "Laugh Out Loud" concept and decided that it described the elements of the individual shows that all three of us do. Hence, the L.O.L. Tour was begun.

Our first show was in Brainerd, Minnesota, as a "FUN-raiser" for the Youth for Christ group in Brainerd.

We rehearsed 3 or 4 times over the last year, deciding which segments of our own individual shows should be included, as well as what new ideas we could work on as a group and incorporate into the show.

Ben Christensen, a student at North Central University, now performs throughout the Summer, and can juggle the diabolo amazingly. He did some of his hat & cane juggling, a newer tennis ball routine as well as his diabolo routine that boggles my eyes just to watch.

Randy, who can do just about anything performance related, did a couple of mime pieces, including his full William Tell routine (very creative) with an audience volunteer, and a fun ventriloquism act.

I did my favorite rope routine (the one people ask about after almost every show), the newer bowling ball act, and my unicycles.

For the finale, we revised the full 12 minute kitchen scene from the "Cirque Imaginings" show we toured with 2 years ago. We expanded the club juggling portion, and finished with Randy's tension building 6-high chair stacking bit (scares me every time).

The show ended with a standing ovation from the audience, so they really liked it.

In August, we will be touring around Wisconsin, Minnesota and Illinois for two weeks with the show. As soon as I have specific dates and locations, I will post them on my website (www.donbministries.com/dates.php).

If you or your church is interested in booking the LOL Show, go HERE and submit your information to Randy. He can contact you with the details.

See you on the road...

DonB!

Music Boat 2009 - Summary

2009-05-11T17:44:00.006-05:00

From what I've told you about this cruise, you may ask how in the world did I get to be a part of this. Well, I ask myself that same question every single day.

Initially I was invited by Robert T., the guy that is famous for all of the BibleMan videos. Thanks to the Premier people, I have now been privileged to take part in 6 of their cruises over the last 3 years.

At our dinner table each night were some great people, including Kurt Heinecke and his 2 boys (Kurt writes most of the music for Veggie Tales productions)and Jason McLeod, star of "Facing the Giants" and "Fireproof". Needless to say, we had a blast at dinner each night.

Finally, when heading back to my room after my show in the Atrium, a guy from Altered (Memphis Jones) said that he "heard that I rocked!" I asked him, "Who told you that?!?!" Two doors down the hallway, a young man poked his head out and answered, "I did!" It was Altered's bass player, Mike Stoker. You guys rock, too!

Whether I rocked or not, everyone we talked with and performed for really enjoyed their time on the Music Boat cruise. They also gave us some great comments about the shows and close-up magic Bruce & I performed throughout the entire cruise.

To see many more pictures from the cruise, click HERE.

God is good, all the time.

Amen.

Music Boat 2009 - Saturday

2009-05-11T17:37:00.004-05:00

This was to be our last day in Florida, so we decided to do a few touristy things. We hit 2 flea markets, looking for bargains, and then headed up to Daytona Beach for some sun and swimming.

The weather on this entire trip was beautiful, and this day was no exception. The waves were crashing at about 4 feet, and we jumped and played for 4 hours.

We then met one of my best friends, Kevin, and his son, Joseph, for a 36-hole game of miniature golf. No matter how hard we tried, Kevin beat us pretty badly. It sure was great to see him again after a year apart. I just wish his wife and daughter could have come also, but too much work for school to be done. Oh well, next time then.

To finish off our trip, we boarded the plane at 7 AM on Sunday, and were back in Minnesota by 11 in the morning.

Home sweet home.

Music Boat 2009 - Friday

2009-05-11T17:34:00.006-05:00

We made port at 8 AM back in Port Canaveral, Florida, but our day was only beginning.

Bruce had met a family, that had met a lady, Jennifer, that worked at Disney's Magic Kingdom. When she found out that it was Bruce's birthday on Friday, she met us at Disney's Hollywood Studios and signed us in for a free day of fun and playing.

We rode the new Toy Story Mania interactive ride, as well as the Rockin' Rollercoaster 5 times, and even the Tower of Terror 5 times. By 7 PM when the park closed, we were exhausted, and returned to our hotel near the airport for a good night's rest.

Music Boat 2009 - Thursday

2009-05-11T17:24:00.006-05:00

Thursday turned out to be our busiest day on the cruise this year.

At 9:30 AM, Bruce and I headed over to the two dining areas where the autograph sessions were to take place. There were people in line already, so we got right to work performing for all of the families waiting in the lines. I performed until 11AM, and then headed to the Atrium Stage for my sound check. After completing that, Bruce & I brought all of my equipment over from the main Premier Theatre that I performed in the night before.

Entertaining for the autograph lines

"Take a card..."

We grabbed a bite to eat (there were 8 places to eat on this ship!), and at 1 PM I did my own show on the Centrum Stage. It is an interesting set-up, in that I was completely surrounded by people, including 2 glass elevators behind me. It was funny watching Larry the Cucumber, from Veggie Tales, squeeze out of the glass elevator just prior to my show.

The Centrum stage, with glass elevators in the background.

Starting my show

My favorite, the Egg Bag.

The show went great, and I had many people talk with me afterward about my ministry work around the country, and how they could get me to their own churches and radio stations.

Immediately after the show, there was another autograph session to do close-up magic for, and while that happened Altered and Matthew West did their afternoon concert (I sadly had to miss it).

That night we listened to speaker, David Nasser, and then the music of MercyMe. What a great night it was, and over $60,000 was donated by the ship guests to help pay for orphanages in Haiti.

The last thing of the night, usically speaking, was the farewell concert in the Atrium. My personal favorite was The Katinas, with their Samoan/Latin/dance sound.

Music Boat 2009 - Wednesday

2009-05-11T17:06:00.010-05:00

I woke up on Wednesday, knowing that it would be a very full day.

We got up early in order to be off the ship by 8 AM when our excursion in Nassau, Bahamas, was leaving. We opted to go Clear Kayaking. It was fun, but about 20 minutes into kayaking, the guide asked if we wanted to snorkel instead. It didn't take us more than 45 seconds to get to the boat, get our gear on and jump back in the water!

Don & Deanna

We purchased 3 bags of fish food and fed the fish as they came right up to us to eat. Bruce saw a small stingray swim under him. I saw Dori & Nemo, though they look a lot smaller in real life than they do in "Finding Nemo".

On the way to the snorkeling area we saw what used to be Charlie Chaplin's home, as well as the Michael Jackson Suite in the Atlantis hotel. Amazing structures they both were.

The Michael Jackson Suite - Atlantis Hotel

We did a little geocaching on Nassau, then headed back onto the boat.

I then started assembling my unicycles for the 2 shows that evening. I was told that I was opening for illusionist Brock Gill, but what they neglected to tell me was that I was also opening for Toby Mac! Yes, you read that right: Christian music artist Toby Mac. And those crowds (I did it twice) were pumped up for a great concert!

Toby Mac, Deanna

(does she look excited?!?!)

Both Brock Gill and Toby Mac were great. Toby always puts on a great show, as well as inspiring and fun music.

After the Toby Mac concert, we headed up to the Viking Crown Lounge, a piano lounge with a 360 degree view of the ocean at the top of the ship. Bruce & I started performing magic for the people already there, and we continued on for almost 2.5 hours, as people came and went the entire time. There were about 8 people that stayed the entire time, and later referred to themselves as our "groupies". It was very fun, as we tag-teamed back and forth doing routine after routine, trying out new stuff and throwing in the good old stand-bys when needed.

Don, getting a laugh from Won Ya

Viking Crown Lounge

Bruce, trying to glimpse Sarah's card

Viking Crown Lounge

Making coins go right through the glass table top

Viking Crown Lounge

It was another fun day at sea.

Music Boat 2009 - Tuesday

2009-05-11T16:47:00.008-05:00

Tuesday, day 2 of the cruise, saw us headed for CoCoCay Island in the Bahamas. As soon as we arrived on the island we went out geocaching, finding one only 15 feet off of the trail. Then, it was out in the sun.

Don, geocaching on CoCoCay Island

We used a lot of spray-on sunscreen, and then later learned something about it: you should not apply it in the wind. If you do, all you get on you is the "glue" substance, and very little of the "screen" part. All three of us ended up more red than expected (alright, we were burned).

CoCoCay Beach

We swam, touched jellyfish, saw fish jumping right out of the water next to us, and Deanna even found a large shark's tooth.

That night we saw 33 Miles, Jars of Clay, Audio Talks (formerly Audio Adrenaline), 321 Improv, Pillar and illusionist Brock Gill.

While standing at the back waiting for the next concert to start, a man in a ball cap walked up and introduced himself. He was Bello Nock, star of the Ringling Brothers Circus back in 2008. The next night, I had the honor of introducing him to the folks on the cruise during my 2nd show of the evening.

Bruce, Bello, Don

MusicBoat 2009 - Monday

2009-05-11T14:15:00.010-05:00

On May 3rd I had the wonderful privilege of working on my 6th Premier Christian Music Cruise. Here's the basics of the trip:

The plan was to have my wife, Debbie, go on the trip with me, but due to her school schedule she could not go. So our daughter, Deanna, as well as one of my magician friends, Bruce Kilber, went with me.

Bruce, Deanna, Don

We flew to Florida on Sunday morning, landing in Orlando around noon.

On Monday, we hopped on the air conditioned bus, heading to Port Canaveral where the ship was docked. On board the bus, we ended up riding with The Katinas and some of their family members. One of those boys, Eli, actually knew some magic tricks, so we spent the 45 minute trip sharing magic effects with hum and the rest of the Katina crew. If you ever want to hear some music that will definitely make you get up and dance, it is The Katinas. Check them out on the web, as well as as your Christian music outlet.

Don, Eli, Bruce

When we arrived at the port, most of the people were already on board the ship, so we didn't do much performing in the terminal, but when we got onboard we found plenty of people to perform for.

Don in the lobby

While walking around the ship, I was able to listen to a few songs by First Day, an acappella group made up of guys from all walks of life.

On Monday night we enjoyed the concerts of FEE and the David Crowder Band. Both were really fun concerts, and it was obvious that the musicians in both groups really enjoy the music they make.

After those concerts, we headed up to the outdoor stage to listen to the Katinas. They really know how to get everyone moving, despite the interesting set-up of the stage (overlooking the swimming pool!).

The Katinas

We then headed indoors to hear one of my favorites, NewSong, including "Defining Moment" and "Arise My Love". Both songs have such great lyrics and melodies.

Bruce, Deanna & I then had our first of way too many trips to the 24 hour ice cream machine. We then headed back to our room to laugh, tell jokes, recite limericks, and continue laughing until 2 AM, when none of us could take any more.

Bruce, getting soft serve cone #1 (of over 40)

And that was the end of Day 1.

Found another DonB! picture on the Web

2009-05-11T13:47:00.002-05:00

Found this photo of me from last Summer. I was doing strolling entertainment on my stilts at the Twin City Polo Classic in Independence, MN.

Due to copyright, click HERE to view it.

DonB!