HamDog bluegrass band playing at Patisserie 46, 10/06/2012
I believe in magic, not the illusions of the magician or the spells of the conjurer, but the magic that suffuses the fabric of life. It is an everyday magic that, if I am willing to slow down and allow it to work, changes a moment into a lifelong memory. This is magic wherein a color, sound, taste, smell, or touch is transformed into an emotion. It isn’t always profound but it is enriching.
Such a magical moment occurred yesterday at one of my favorite haunts, the Patisserie 46. The day was cold and gray, windchill at 30 degrees, with an occasional lonely snowflake. I go to the Patisserie frequently and the people there know me by name. The place embodies a sense of community. Needless to say, the food, bake goods, and beverages are excellent.
HamDog, a local band that plays bluegrass, Americana and folk was braving the chill and playing on the patio. Under bare tree limbs and amidst swirling yellow leaves the eight members of the band filled the air with music. Hardy music lovers sat at the tables warming their hands with cups of steaming coffee and stamping their feet in time with the music. Their rendition of Long Black Veil and The Minnesotan were perfect for moment. Eventually, as the temperature continued to drop, they moved indoors and serenaded a packed house.
Happenstance is the magic of everyday life. The coincidental mixing of elements that elicit the emotions that enrich our lives.
I am deeply grateful for the music, latte, and community I experienced there.