Where The Magic Started

I am half Dutch and half 8th generation Canadian. I like to think this makes me a nice person who can be stubborn. However, these are strong roots remind me that, you guessed it, has something to do with magic.

My Dutch Grandparents came over from Holland (Amsterdam & Rotterdam) in 1953 because they wanted a new beginning. My Grandfather, on my Dad's side, was a dapper man that could charm anyone. While looking for work, he would say to employers, "I will work one day for free and you can tell me if I'm a good fit." Indeed, he was a good fit. Continued working he did until he ran a small vending machine company. Then he looked towards the restaurant business. He ran a Cafeteria (where my Father's love for coffee began) and did quite well for himself. Because he knew was he was capable of and humbled himself, he was successful at what he did.

My Grandpa, on my Mother's side, is a man of wisdom. However, that being said he didn't start speaking until he was three. His mother was concerned and took him to see the doctor. "Is there something wrong, Doctor?" "No, Ma'am, he just doesn't have anything to say." I learned recently that it was because his brother wouldn't stop talking. He had dreams of following his father's footsteps in farming and he did. He and my Grandma worked so hard and lived simply, making them successful farmers. But the legacy that they will leave is their kindness and they're eagerness to help.

What do these two men have in common? They started from nothing and saw the miracles (magic) in an ordinary world. I recently saw The Greatest Showman and I was astounded by P.T. Barnum's story. He had this vision of celebrating human imperfections, and lost it all a few times, but ultimately created a world of magic. These stories can seem cheesy but I would argue that this has been essential to humanity and what we've been able to do. Anyone can admit to knowing of magic but it's the believing that changes everything. A faithful Farmer and a diligent Dutchman made me believe. I don't think I can doubt the magic now. Truthfully, I don't want to.

Love & Prayers,

Lauren xo