Then Sings My Soul

We were here first...

2008-06-27T11:13:00.002-04:00

This Girl is Amazing...

2008-04-19T12:03:00.009-04:00

If you know Michaèla, the sweet Brit gal from Waverly, you probably know about her creative gift of painting and design. Once again, she amazed me yesterday when she spent a couple of hours at my house "performing her magic" on a redecorated bathroom. As I left for work, I told her, "Here is the shower curtain....just do something with this."

So I had to share and brag and gloat a little over how this amazing new look was created by my sweet friend, Michaèla. She started with this...

...and "Abra-ca-dabra, Al-ika-zing,
Magic paintbrush, Do your thing!"
Honestly, THIS GIRL IS AMAZING...

I am quite happy with the new look--I know, I know, it's only a bathroom. But I just love seeing the results of color and shape and design and God's amazing gifts being used by Michaèla-- all of this coming together to create. Feel free to stop by the Pekkalas the next time you need a bathroom break!

God's Great Outdoors

2008-04-06T20:05:00.005-04:00

Today was an awesome day to enjoy God's great outdoors. Our own rvcc Club 345 visited the Brewers at Milestone Lodge and Lake as we did a little fishing, cooked up some hot dogs, soaked up the beautiful sunshine, and relaxed as we hung out with good friends. The breeze was blowing, the bobbers were bobbing, the bluegills were biting....well, it just doesn't get any better than that.

Yellow....again

2008-03-31T17:47:00.006-04:00

What color is your soul painted?

Yellow

Your soul is painted the color yellow, which embodies the characteristics of joy, happiness, optimism, idealism, gold, hope, liberalism, sociability, friendship, death, courage, intellect, confidence, communication, travel, movement, attraction, persuasion, and charm. Yellow is the color of the element Air, and symbolizes the sun, grain, and the power of thought.

Click Here to Take This Quiz

Quizzes and Personality Tests

...start your engines!

2008-03-17T19:21:00.005-04:00

This past Friday night, about 100 kids (and over 100 others who LOVE kids) at River Valley Community Church came together for the Amazing FAITH Race. Some guys in the church and I (although reluctantly myself) started this tradition in 2006. It is a spin-off of the Pinewood Derby where kids get a chance to build wooden 5 ounce cars from a car kit and race them down an aluminum track.

High School Musical

2008-03-01T23:31:00.007-05:00

Robbie Crace and I played Emile and Nellie in 1976.

My friends Nancy and Anna and I attended Piketon High School's production of Bye Bye Birdie tonight. It brought back a lot of very cool memories from my high school musicals in 1976 (South Pacific) and 1977 (Showboat). Same excitement...same stage....same LONG scene changes....lol

When I was a junior in high school, I was cast in the role of Ensign Nellie Forbush in the great Rodgers and Hammerstein musical play, South Pacific. Prior to this, I knew NOTHING of musical theater. Showboat (senior year) was equally as satisfying when I played the role of Magnolia Hawks. Bob Frey was the choral teacher at Piketon then, and he encouraged me to join the HS chorus. I remember taking voice lessons from Mr. Frey (for free) after I was cast. I remember Jean Way teaching me some simple dance steps for "I'm in Love with a Wonderful Guy." I remember strangers coming up to me months and a few years afterward and telling me how much they loved the production.....the musical experience was such a memorable part of my high school years.

Playing that role in South Pacific helped me to discover just how much I loved music and the stage. Since that time, the passion has never left me. God was SO preparing me to serve him in the future. And now, whether it's organizing and encouraging the cool kids in River Pure, leading a musical production at River Valley, enjoying Broadway Across America shows with my girls, or being part of the worship team at church, I owe my love and connection to musical theater to those experiences in my own "High School Musical."

"I'm Gonna Wash That Man Right Outta My Hair" (and send him on his way!) This was such a fun song--I REALLY had to wash my hair--yes, that's a towel in my hand...

Nellie's soliloquy after hearing that Emile may have been killed. (Dear Mr. Connett played the upright bass in the orchestra)

Happy Birthday to my Beautiful Mom

2008-02-10T23:27:00.003-05:00

Phyllis Jean Dotson in 1944

HAPPY 70th BIRTHDAY to my beautiful mother today. Without a doubt, Phyllis Higgins is the one person who has molded and shaped me more than anyone else during my lifetime. Even though my children are nearly grown and I am definitely at the age where I should get along quite well on my own, I still rely on Mom's advice and I talk to her nearly every day about something. She is gentle. She keeps me on track. She helps me appreciate life's most precious gifts. She forgives. She builds me up. She finds the best in every situation. She shows me grace. She is Jesus, like no one else in my life. I love her so much and I THANK GOD every day for the gift of a mom like her!

Mom and Me in 1960

Mom and Me in 2000

My precious mother bore 4 children in less than 4 years....(wha??) Yes, I was not quite 4 when my sister was born. We didn't have much materially, but I sure didn't realize it. I remember Mom putting coal in the stove in the middle of the night so the fire wouldn't go out and we could stay warm. (Maybe Dad was sleeping???) I remember Mom sewing culottes for me in Jr. High (now we call them skorts)...I liked to dress up. I remember Mom would always make a small bowl of slaw for me at supper WITHOUT the dressing (I was a picky eater) and sit it next to my plate. And I remember getting surprises in the mail when I was in college....a check for $25.00! Those were the days!

Mike, Mom, Mitch, Jane, Me in 1969

Wedding Day - July 17, 1982

My mom worked in the Piketon schools as the treasurer for about 20 years. She retired in 2000. So many people are STILL telling me stories of how she went out of her way to help them (that's important when someone writes your paycheck!). When I see an old friend, they always ask, "So how's your mom doing?" My mother left her mark in so many ways. I WANNA BE JUST LIKE HER WHEN I GROW UP! Happy Birthday---I love you, Mom!

Long Road Ahead

2008-01-22T22:35:00.000-05:00

I think we are quite lucky in our small town to have our own music store. Prussia Valley Music Shop of Waverly is in the old Arrowood Jewelers building at the corner of Market Street and Emmitt Avenue. They stock mandolins, banjos, fiddles, guitars, hand made dulcimers, CDs, books, and accessories. If you're a musician and you need strings, a tuner, or other small stuff, this little shop can help you there as well.

We purchased my new violin/fiddle for Christmas from Prussia Valley. (Check here to read about the difference...or the lack of difference...) I am also taking lessons on Thursday nights. I set a goal for myself to be able to play a song or two along with the band at church by Easter....and now I am having doubts. I consider myself fairly musical with my experience on piano, sax, and voice. But an instrument with strings is an entirely new arena.

My violin/fiddle teacher is a very sweet girl by the name of Stephanie Stanley. She has a lot of patience as I make these strange sounds during the lesson and is quick to compliment me when I don't! Honestly, I should practice more often.....I remember when Trent was learning guitar--he played it for pure enjoyment! He played it ALL THE TIME....even took it in the car on vacation. Now I wish I could be that dedicated.

I think there are 9-10 weeks until Easter. I love the violin part on "By His Wounds" and I have already completed the notation for the part using my piano. If I can only remember "raise the elbow"..."control the pressure"..."let the bow work for you." I so want to do this as a way to bring beautiful worship to my Heavenly Father. But--don't worry--if it stinks, I'll stick with something else. It might be a LONG ROAD AHEAD...

So do you know the answer: What's the difference between a violin and a fiddle? "A violin sings, a fiddle dances." "A fiddle is a violin with attitude." And I love this one... "No one cries when they spill beer on a fiddle."

His words stirred my soul...

2008-01-21T18:30:00.000-05:00

Last May, I was privileged to be part of a school trip to Atlanta, GA. We visited the Martin Luther King National Historic Site, which includes a Visitor's Center museum to bring awareness to MLK's amazing story, his unforgettable Ebenezer Baptist Church, MLK's gravesite and reflecting pool at The King Center, and Peace Plaza--beautifully landscaped grounds with sculptures and other decor offering tributes to various peacemakers throughout history.

Early in the day, we took in the "Courage To Lead" exhibit inside the Visitor's Center which follows the paths of MLK and the Civil Rights Movement. As I walked along looking at scratchy, B & W videotape, the voice of the great Martin Luther King, Jr. filled the room. WOW! His words stirred my soul! I have read his speeches/sermons in the past....but hearing that voice moved me to tears. His calm confidence and humble spirit together with the words he spoke gave evidence of a heart focused on others. No doubt...this man was a true Jesus-follower...and, thankfully, I really discovered more of it that day.

I also fell in love with Freedom Road--an exhibit which memorializes everyday people known as the "foot soldiers" of the Civil Rights Movement. These statues look so real as they "walk" along the road, smiling, cheering, chanting.. ordinary, believable people who took unbelievable chances to stand for their cause.

Ebenezer Baptist Church where King and his father and grandfather pastored...ahhh, such beautiful memories. (They also have built a new spacious Ebenezer Baptist Church up the street...) We happened to be taking the tour with an all-black boys prep school from nearby.

If you ever get a chance to go, you won't soon forget its impact. On this holiday, I remember Martin Luther King--and this year I feel good because I know my brother's voice, his words, his soul a little better.

Empty Nest Blues

2008-01-05T13:40:00.000-05:00

Bill and I are very proud of our 18 year old son, Trent. He has participated in the PSEO (Post Secondary Enrollment Options) program since sophomore year of high school, and will graduate both HS and (be very close to) an Associate's Degree from Ohio University in Electronic Media in May. I realize this requires real academic commitment on Trent's part as well as often sacrificing the social perks of his high school years. (But, of course, we think it's worth it since it is TOTALLY FREE -- even books!)

Since September, Trent has been attending OU Ironton full-time, and has even landed a university job this quarter, working for the EM department. The experience is invaluable. But, because of the threat of Ohio winter weather, and the 75 minute drive to Ironton, we decided to rent a small upstairs apartment for him next to the university. He will "move" there tomorrow....YIKES!!!

1510 S. Tenth Street, Ironton, OH

I am not sure if it's moving a high schooler into an apartment or moving "my baby" out of the house or losing Mommy control, but I feel like I am beginning to suffer from ENS--empty next syndrome---and I am freaked out.

Hopefully, it won't take too long for me to realize that I am not spending so much time picking up wet towels, stepping over guitar cables, and lowering the toilet seat. Then, at just about that moment, Trent will be back. RECESS OVER.....

PS - I LOVE THAT BOY!!!

Best Discoveries of 2007

2007-12-31T21:44:00.000-05:00

I'm not really one to dwell on what's already passed....honestly, like Sinatra, I take pleasure in knowing "The Best is Yet to Come." But, at year's end, I don't see anything wrong with remembering and highlighting the BEST DISCOVERIES of the past year of my life...

* MOST MISSED FRIEND - Mary Conley left the ESC

* BEST '07 PURCHASE - ipod

* FAVORITE NEW BAND - River Pure!

* BEST VIEW - atop Stone Mountain, GA

* SWEETEST NEW TEACHER - Mary Ellen Cox, new LEAD teacher

* BEST LASAGNA - Mimmo's Italian Eatery, SanDiego, CA

* MOST AWESOME WEDDING DATE - 07.07.07

* BEST NEW DAUGHTER-IN-LAW - Mrs. Jenny Pekkala

* WORST SMELLING AIRPORT - McCarran International, Las Vegas

* MOST FUN TIMES - Broadway girls Kim, me, Laura, Jaki

* CRAZIEST KIDS - Jump for Joy cast

* MOST FUN WORSHIP - Together on Tuesdays with Anna and Julie E

* COLDEST EASTER EGG HUNT - rvcc's Community Egg Hunt April 2007

* FAVORITE ALBUM PURCHASED - Glory Revealed

* BEST GAME WITH FRIENDS - Balderdash

* COOLEST ISLAND - Coronado, CA

* EASIEST SONG TO MAKE ME CRY - "Come to Jesus" Chris Rice

* BEST NEW HOBBY - blogging

* BIGGEST CHALLENGE AHEAD - learning to play this

Birthday Lunch

2007-12-30T21:34:00.000-05:00

Chillicothe has a new Olive Garden...and honestly, it's one of my favorite places to go. Favorite place with some favorite people...can't beat that! My sweet young friend, Anna, and some crazy boys and I celebrated my birthday lunch there. It was great...tasty food, enjoyable company, engaging conversation--well, on second thought, the conversation was fairly typical.

Jordan: "Why would they leave this big bottle of wine here where people could steal it?"
Mason: "Now where could you hide a big bottle of wine like that?"
Jordan: "In Anna's big purse."

Anna: "I'll have Sprite with grenadine."
Trent: "What's grenadine?"
Anna: "It's like a cherry flavor. It's good. Tastes like a cherry coke."
Trent: "OK, give me some in my Coke, too."
(5 minutes later)
Trent: "Ugh....can I have another Coke...WITHOUT the grenadine."

Clark (the waiter): "Oh, you played football at Waverly? How did you do?"
Mason: "We were 9 and 1 regular season and 10 and 2 with the post season."
Clark: "My son played at Paint Valley this year. Do you play basketball?"
Mason: "ummmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm..."

Jordan: "OH MY GOSH. I think I just ate a chunk of garlic."
Anna: "Why?"
Jordan: "I thought it was a mushroom."

12.30.2007 Anna (19) and me (much older than 19)

Random thoughts on getting older: I don't really think about it, although there are physical scenarios that serve as constant reminders. Vision deteriorates and I need to wear glasses or contacts. Metabolism slows and I need to diet. I have back issues (L4 and L5) and I need to walk more. Otherwise, I don't notice it too much. 2008 is just around the corner...I think I have my list of resolutions.

After Olive Garden, a quick stop at the Hirsch's Fruit Farm store was in order. A great ending to a perfect Birthday Lunch. Looks like Trent enjoyed it most.

20 years of Pekkala Family Christmas

2007-12-26T01:56:00.000-05:00

Mammaw-in-Tucky

2007-12-24T17:08:00.000-05:00

On Saturday, I spent the day in Pike County, Kentucky, with my maternal grandmother and family for our annual Christmas gathering. Claudia Stafford, age 92, prepared dinner for 20--turkey & stuffing, mashed potatoes, ham, chicken 'n' dumplings, green beans, cole slaw, sweet potatoes, cranberry salad, yeast rolls, and more. There were lots of aunts, cousins, and friends who joined us. Thankfully, we did not have a weigh-in afterward.

Mammaw-in-tucky, as she has been known for many years, was born in 1915, and has outlived 2 husbands, one daughter, and three grandchildren. She has always lived in the hills of the eastern Kentucky coal mines. My grandfather, Don Dotson, a coal miner, died of cancer in 1955 and left a 40 year old mother alone with 7 children. Mammaw's life has been full of hard work, little material gain, and much heartache. Yet, (and she tells us often) God has been so good to her.

The memories I have of going to Mammaw-in-tucky's as a young girl take me up the mountains and around the curves of the Appalachias to Mammaw's church. I was totally freaked out (and often wept) when the men and women yelled and cried and ran up and down the aisles. I suppose it taught me that people worship and praise God in different ways. I think it's o.k. to commune with God in a way that is comfortable for "you"...and I am glad God knows every heart.

When I was at Mammaw's on Saturday, I took a photo of this Jesus picture that has hung on her wall as long as I can remember. (and it has had a huge crack in the glass for as long as I can remember...) I was reminded of how God blessed me with a mother and grandmother who love and honor Him....and I was humbled. I am thankful for all the 3-and-a-half hour trips to be a part of the life of Mammaw-in-tucky.

Christmas = Jesus = JOY = Kids

2007-12-18T23:00:00.000-05:00

Imagine 42 preschoolers jumping and clapping and singing and smiling and making God happy on one big stage in front of around 200 of their biggest fans. That's exactly what happened on Sunday night at River Valley's preschool Christmas play, "Jump for Joy."

There were angels and shepherds and cows and sheep and donkeys and, of course, little Mary and Joseph. There were storytellers who memorized and spoke their lines loud and clear. There were 3-4-5 year olds singing solos into microphones just like they were on Broadway! There were little children sharing the precious story of Jesus with a few grown-ups who may never have heard it quite this way.

I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE Christmas plays! It probably started way back when I learned to tell the Christmas story through drama at my old church. Any way you look at it, Sunday night was a thrill for me. God worked in the lives and hearts of so many families over the past few weeks, and He joined us together on Sunday night so all of us--young and old--could sing and have fun bringing glory to Him during this Christmas season....it just doesn't get any better than that!

"Dolls-in-a-box"

2007-12-12T11:05:00.000-05:00

'Tis the season to be running around trying to choose the perfect gift. I find myself trying to be both practical and creative in selecting gifts for those I love. I have a very special niece and nephew (Rachel and Drew - ages 7 and 5) (see how beautiful they are here) and I want to buy them something they will always remember came from "Aunt Ju-Ju." This year, it seems particularly difficult....but, alas, I have 13 days remaining to solve this mind-boggling and somewhat time-consuming issue.

When my sister Jane (Rachel's and Drew's mommy) and I were little girls, apparently we were big fans of the dolls-in-a-box. I really do remember LOVING these life-sized replicas...and I distinctly remember SAVING THE BOX. The Christmas pictured above was in 1966 (Jane on the left, picking her nose...sorry sister, age 3; Julie on right, age 7, with the strange haircut) and I must have really loved dolls at that age. Even though this photo is black and white, I vividly remember the colors of my 2 dolls: Baby Secret on top had yellowish-orange hair and a red sleeper (who coordinated THAT?) and my life-sized doll had blond hair and a dress made of yellow dotted swiss fabric with a black velour belt. I can close my eyes and feel the texture of those dolls...seriously--perhaps I need medication. I wish I still had one of those original dolls...

What favorite toys do you remember?

Games People Play

2007-12-06T11:02:00.000-05:00

Getting together to hang out with friends and play board games is definitely one of my favorite ways to spend a Friday night. Some of us have been wasting time with crazy games lately. BALDERDASH is one of my favs. Getting inside those creative minds of people you love...no matter how imaginative, how ingenious, or how jaded....SO MUCH FUN!

In Balderdash, you have to make up a definition for a REAL word you have never heard of (except in VERY RARE cases). Then you win points if you convince your friends that it is accurate. Some of these definitions which have been penned around my kitchen table....wow! I know some really good liars! However, I have not decided which is better: being swindled by someone else....or scamming them yourself.

What's your favorite board game?

Higgins Family Christmas - 1967

2007-11-29T01:15:00.000-05:00

Mitch (age 6), Julie (age 7), Mike (age 5), Jane (age 4)

Forty years ago, Christmas was ...
- watching Little Drummer Boy, Rudolph, and Frosty on the B&W TV
- a passing party gift for the school party - limit $1
- memorizing a poem for the Christmas program at church
- smell of the skinny cedar tree Dad cut down from the woods out back (we had skinny before "skinny" was in...)
- icicles - the silver kind - everywhere...
- making paper chains (using glue made from flour & water)
- going to our bunkbeds early on December 24 (4 kids in a room)
- getting up "while it was still dark" to look under the tree
- toys were the only presents...clothes were a disappointment
- real surprises on Christmas morning -- we NEVER made a "list"
- Baby Secret, Show 'n' Tell (my favorite), Easy Bake Oven
- Mom cooking Christmas dinner - the windows all fogged up
- snow outside (seems like it snowed every Christmas)
- NO SCHOOL FOR TWO WEEKS! (and that made me sad...)
What do YOU remember?

The Year 2037

2007-11-27T09:41:00.001-05:00

I honestly hope this is me in 30 years....

Fun in Spamalot

2007-11-26T01:49:00.000-05:00

Entertaining, engaging, clever, fun.....tonight Laura, Jaki, Anna, Kim, and I saw the hilarious Monty's Python's Spamalot--first show in our Broadway series for this season. WE LOVED IT! Talented musicians, a witty story, great friends.....can't think of a better way to spend a Sunday evening. Then add in a sprinkle of shopping at Lennox and a dash of Cap City Diner....the day was superb!

Oh, and we actually had a couple moments of serious divine intervention.....
In Target, Jaki left her little purse all alone in a cart for about an hour! During checkout, she discovered it wasn't in her possession....the search was on....and there, in the $1 only aisle, the purse was waiting for her....DIVINE!

Then the FUNNIEST thing happened when we arrived at the Ohio Theater, all primed and ready to take on the show....Laura happened to look at our tickets....and they all read "Sunday, November 18, 6:30 p.m." WOW!! WE WERE A WEEK LATE! The nice lady at the will call booth was able to find us 5 seats together in the Orchestra section, Row Q--great seats! Again, DIVINE!

Can't wait for the next round. Here are a few more great images...

Is it Christmas?

2007-11-01T19:00:00.000-04:00

Believe it or not, there is actually a web site that answers that question. Check it out. (http://www.isitchristmas.com/) Even though it's not Christmas yet, we are getting ready to start practicing for our Christmas musical at rvcc---all preschoolers and kindergarteners--this is gonna be great! Mark your calendars for Sunday night, December 16...and join us for "Jump for Joy!"

This will be musical number 13 for the kids at rvcc....so I thought it would be cool to take a look back at numbers 1 thru 12. I don't have pictures from all of them, so if anyone does, please allow me to share. These are some of the best times....take a look!

(NEED PHOTO)
1. Secret of My Success - Fall 2001

2. Candy Cane Lane - Christmas 2001

(NEED PHOTO)
3. We Are United (Henotes Island) - Summer 2002

4. Meet Me at the Manger - Christmas 2002

5. A Star is Born - Christmas 2003

6. Acorns to Oaks - Fall 2004

7. The REAL Christmas Story - Christmas 2004

8. King of the Jungle - Fall 2005

9. Wasn't That a Mighty Day - Christmas 2005

10. Hallelujah Heart - Fall 2006

11. Angel Alert - Christmas 2006

12. Livin' Inside Out - Fall 2007

Livin' Inside Out

2007-10-22T07:33:00.000-04:00

Wow! Those kids did it again! Those talented, creative, Jesus-loving kids from RVCC pulled off another great show last night! I hope you had a chance to see it...

I mean, honestly, THESE KIDS CAN SING! There were 13 soloists....and they were ALL just great! There were tap dancers and ribbon dancers...and the funny "Three Blind Guys"....Hilarious! Kayla and Hudson pulled off great performances....and Miss Allyson Ford...what can I say? Her humor and ability to work the crowd with her clever lines...look out Saturday Night Live! The gym class choir was so convincing that "livin' inside out" is definitely what God wants from us! How the tears flowed as I watched the precious Shepherd Boy song...the message is so true.

We counted all the musical productions since Secret of My Success in the fall of 2001 (Thanks, Bailey, I couldn't remember the title). This was number 12! So much fun...and so many memories. Getting involved in the lives of kids...the payoff lasts a lifetime! ..."even though your life seems filled with ordinary things..."

Here are a few memorable moments:

Girls Rock!

2007-10-13T14:00:00.000-04:00

Last Sunday night, 34 crazy rockin' kids and teenagers from rvcc (and a few of us older folks who want to be like kids) saw TobyMac and BarlowGirl live at Grove City Naz (which, btw, is the home church of Roberta Camp, Miss Ohio....she introduced them) It was SO MUCH FUN! I had probably seen TobyMac twice before and BarlowGirl once, but it's been awhile. Touring around and doing concerts seems like such a fun life (well...maybe for 6 months or so...lol)

I was particularly struck by BarlowGirl--three sisters who basically created all their own sounds...instruments and beautiful harmonies. Lauren, age 22, is a lead singer and drummer (May I say she has nothing on Jordan P., however, except striking harmonies and beautiful blonde locks...sorry, Jor). Becca (27) plays electric and acoustic guitar and sings background harmonies as well. Their amazing lead vocalist and *keyboard player, Alyssa (age 25), hung a bass guitar around her neck the entire time and would switch off as the song called for it...impressive.
*keyboard player envy...

During their concert, the three Barlow sisters take a stand for NOT DATING. I am really interested in this. Although it isn't, it might seem like purity to-the-tenth-power. I am intrigued. I am intrigued by young people who are committed to something out of the norm. Actually, I started a Secret Keeper Girls Club at church for our pre-teens and I love all the Dannah Gresh Pure Freedom stuff. One of the few books I have actually read cover to cover is "And the Bride Wore White." That's where I learned of Joshua Harris' book "I Kissed Dating Good-bye." Of course, the premise is waiting on God's timing and choosing to submit that area of your life to Him, trusting that He has your good in mind. I so admire young people with that kind of commitment.

Here's what I have read from the Barlow sisters online: "We believe that God has one perfect man already chosen for us; therefore we have no need to worry ourselves in searching for him. When the time is right we know God will bring us together. In the meantime we are not hiding in a closet avoiding all males. We are still living our lives, just without the pressure of having to have a boyfriend."

No doubt, this is an individual decision. I know for a fact that, as a teenager and young 20-something, I was too immature and full of folly to have bought in. Maybe that's why I admire BarlowGirl for it. And I pray for every girl and boy with that kind of faith. How do you feel about it?

You can read more about Barlow Girl on their MySpace page and their message board.

Happy 24th, Troy!

2007-10-09T20:30:00.000-04:00

Today is the 24th birthday of our firstborn son.....Troy Michael Pekkala was born on Sunday morning, October 9, 1983 at 10:30 a.m. He weighed in at 8 lbs. 2 oz. The first born in a family is always such a joy...and Troy was the first grandchild on my side of the family so he got lots of attention! He was indeed a gift to Bill and me 24 years ago...I am not sure that we knew at the time how much he would teach us about life.

When Troy was born, I was teaching Kindergarten for the Eastern Schools. Bill was the guidance counselor there as well....a great place to start out! I was so young (23) and shallow and out of touch with what was really important....perhaps most of us are at 23. I wanted my son to have the coolest toys, the cutest clothes, the popular friends, straight A's in school, to excel on sports teams, yada, yada, yada.... Boy, have I grown up a lot! Surviving those years with teenagers really helps a Mom prioritize and gain perspective!

Unlike my good friend Jaki, Troy was a typical first-born parent pleaser. His teachers spoke of his leadership and his ability to get along with everyone. His grades were good...not always straight A's...but pretty close. He remarked once in high school that it was way too much work to get a 4.0....and just a lot simpler to relax, have fun, and take a 3.5. Pretty good advice.

As Troy grew older, it was evident that he was blessed with an internal drive to do WHATEVER he wanted. That boy is so ambitious! He started mowing lawns at age 13, and built that business up until one summer, he and Ian Smith had 30 lawns to mow in a week. Troy took certification for lifesaving and worked at the city pool several summers. He taught ski lessons at Spicy Run Mountain (remember that place?). Actually, I tagged Troy with a "rescue syndrome" in that he loves to be in situations where he can help others. Troy joined the Waverly Fire Department just out of HS, and made many fire and emergency runs...he loved it! He was on the dive team for the WFD and was PADI certified. Troy took the hunter's education program and the boater's safety course...he loves the outdoors...loves boating and water skiing! Troy actually bought a wrecked Ford Expedition and repaired it (with the help of Bruce Davis), and then sold it at a pretty good profit. He has always been so good at fixing stuff. I am so proud of him!

And now Troy is remodeling a little house on State Route 772 with his new wife, Jennifer. He's not afraid to try just about any aspect of building a house. He loves living in the country, and says he'll never move in town (I keep bugging him about the inconveniences of the country...) Troy earned a Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering and now works for.....you guessed it...Eastern Local Schools! I guess Eastern is just a great place to start out if you're a Pekkala.

I wish for my little Troy-boy (well, it was a cute nickname back then) the blessing of a happy and fulfilling life...full of learning and loving...and the recognition that God is woven into every moment of every day. Love you, Troy!

Life is Fragile

2007-09-28T22:08:00.000-04:00

Today, I am reminded of the fragility of life. Jennifer (Buckler) Pekkala's usually healthy 15-year-old brother, Jordan, is in ICU in Children's Hospital in Columbus undergoing tests to find a cause for the relentless seizures which have plagued his fragile body since Wednesday evening. As he lies sedated in the hospital bed, a ventilator is helping him breathe, an EEG machine is monitoring his brain activity, a tube in his nose and down into his abdomen is keeping his upper digestive tract clear, and an IV drip allows a concoction of anti-viral and antibiotic drugs in his veins. A little over 2 weeks ago, he was running on the cross country team for Piketon's high school team. His times were getting a little better each meet. But no more. At least not this season.

We shouldn't have to be reminded how fragile we are. But God does....sometimes. It was just 2 years ago when a split-second mistake reminded Trent (and me!) of how life is fragile. It was September 14, 2005, and he and Jordan Purpero were "taking the short cut" as we often called it across Bricker Road. Bad choice.

Here's what I wrote the following day in an email:
THANK YOU so much for lifting up our boys in prayer to our Heavenly Father last night after the accident. I was so calm in the face of calamity...surely it was His peace flowing through me. God is so good to me ( I knew it already--He just reminded me again) and I will be FOREVER grateful for His great blessing of faithful friends, loving family, a truly wonderful life.
Trent and Jordan are relatively fine now. Jordan took the brunt of the physical injuries--cuts on his forehead and arm from the windshield and a sprained thumb. As a parent, this really hurts to know that my son's carelessness resulted in his injuries. (Jordan, however, thanked Trent for getting him out of P.E. for a week) Trent has some minor burns and scrapes on his arms from the airbag. The car is totally damaged, likely totalled.
I am so thankful for Shawn Brown (Betsy's husband, Lacy's Dad) who was on the scene in about one minute to comfort the boys. I am thankful that it was light outside, that Bill and I were home so we could get there quickly, that no other car was involved, that the car didn't go further down the hill, that Ed and Mindy Purpero were close by so they could get there quickly, that the boys' injuries were minor, that my precious friends could lead play practice in my place, that my beautiful RVCC kids understood and just wanted to hug me, and that the Purperos are loving and forgiving friends who were able to sympathize with the whole incident. As soon as I got on the scene, Trent, Jordan, Brad Frost, and I prayed that God would have His way and would turn this into something good. Just keep praying that ALL the boys (and ALL of their friends) would be more conscious of how quickly accidents happen and the importance of using good judgment. Remind your own kids every day.
Love you all,
Julie P.

Trent's and Jordan P.'s physical injuries were healed within a few weeks. I am hoping and praying for the same with Jordan Buckler. May God have mercy on his fragile life.

See You at the Pole 2004

2007-09-26T11:00:00.000-04:00

Today is See You at the Pole. You can read a very cool story about its 1990 origin here. Apparently, one guy thinks that SYATP has become cliche' and is not necessarily a good representation of how mature Jesus-followers should spend their prayer time. You can decide on your own how you feel about that...it's one of the great benefits of living in America!

I will always remember SYATP 2004. Waverly had just opened their new school complex. The grass had recently been sown and was just beginning to grow around the shiny new flagpoles in front of the High School. The white concrete was fairly fresh and the "new school" smell was still in the air. At River Valley Community Church, we had just started a High School youth program because we had a core group of 9th graders who were more than ready to break from The Tide. Most of them were still immature in their faith, but were poised for a growth spurt. Call me crazy...but I still think of SYATP 2004 as a spark that led to an eventual fire for RVCC's high school youth program.

That morning, I dropped Trent off at 7:00 a.m. He wouldn't let me stay. He had taken up guitar a few months prior, and I think Laura had asked him to bring it along. With his guitar in hand, he made his way to the small group that was gathering around the flagpole. I drove away, tears streaming down my face. Honestly, I was so moved that Trent and his friends would step out in a display of their faith at a place where others (students AND teachers) could be so judgmental. Three years later, it might seem like an insignificant event. But THAT DAY, it was huge.

"I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes..." Romans 1:16a

My Old Church

2007-09-24T21:30:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, I visited my "old church"...Howard United Methodist on Camp Creek for their annual Homecoming service. (If you grew up in the old traditional Methodist scene, you know EXACTLY what I mean...) Anna and Trent and Jordan and I sang a few songs before Mr. Bernie Tilley from Salem United Methodist Church (in Scioto County?) brought his thoughts on Jesus' requirement for us to focus on and serve others. It was a good service.

I attended church at Howard for the first 40 years of my life. There is no doubt that the old folks who are left there love me and would do ANYTHING for me. I am thankful for the years I spent with them.

The old pastor at Howard United Methodist was Bill Cramer. Reverend Cramer, as we called him, was born in 1906. So when I started attending in 1966, he was already 60. Rev. Cramer baptized me when he was 68. When I went away to college, he was 71. When he married Bill and me, he was 76. When he baptized Trent by sprinkling, Rev. Cramer was 84. Bill Cramer just didn't show up for church one Sunday morning in 1997. He had decided to call it quits...but he didn't want to say good-bye. He preferred "see ya later." He passed away in 2001 at age 95...and I know that I will "see him later."

I learned to play piano with help from Howard Church. I took lessons from Mrs. Fyffe. I remember it was a dollar for an hour lesson. We didn't have a piano at home when I was in 4th grade, so I went there to practice. Then I started playing at church services when Zelma Weeter passed away...I was in junior high school.

I learned how to sing harmony with my Mom and my family at Howard Church. On Sunday mornings, the "kids choir" would sit in little folding chairs on the stage and sing the old hymns. God blessed me with a musical family. My sweet Mom was the kids choir leader, so she would sit up front with us. My Mom, my brothers (Mitch and Mike) and my sister (Jane) and I would all harmonize in 3 parts as we sang "He Hideth My Soul" and "God Will Take Care of You." That was always Mom's favorite.

I learned to love Christmas plays at Howard Church. When I was younger, I loved playing characters who, through the course of the script, figured out what Christmas was really about. (Isn't that the theme of all Christmas plays?) As I grew older, I loved leading the other kids as we prepared a Christmas program. I remember one year that I had several HS kids and Mrs. Julie Evans (the new teacher at Piketon at the time) actually came and watched.....I was thrilled!...I remember how I cried at the end when I was thanking everyone.

I experienced a great tragedy in my life while attending Howard Church. My 16-year-old brother, Mike, was killed in a single car accident on Saturday night, December 30, 1978. It was my 19th birthday. Somehow, Mitch and Jane and I were at church that Sunday morning. Mom wouldn't go back for about 6 years....she hurt so much...and she still hurts. My brother Mike is buried in the cemetery around Howard United Methodist church.

Looking back, (if I wanted to) I could name a few shortcomings in my spiritual training at Howard Church, but I don't focus on them. What I DID learn was to rely on God. I learned of His faithfulness. I experienced the joy of being with others who were in His family...Clyde and Frances, Dottie, Mike and Rita, my aunts Helen and Dorothy, Howard and Vicki, Walt, Alice, and Beverly. And some have gone on to meet Jesus...Roy and Louise, Bob, Zelma, Kemp, Arissa, and Rev. Cramer. Oh, and my brother, Mike. I can't wait to see him again.

Talent Show

2007-09-03T20:22:00.000-04:00

Talent intrigues me....Some people on this earth have amazing talents. We saw this talented gentleman in SanDiego on the island of Coronado. With only a broom and some sand from the Pacific shore, he was able to create marvelous masterpieces. I felt guilty walking over them....but everyone did. After all, he was apparently paid by the famous Hotel del Coronado to spend the day creating for the enjoyment of passersby. Once he finished a masterpiece, he moved on to a design he had created earlier in the day, and willingly "wiped it clean" by sweeping all the sand to the center again. A fresh start. A clean slate. An empty canvas.

Last night, I met with 30 or so precious talented souls that attend River Valley Community Church...except that these guys are 6 to 11 years old. The kids at church are performing a musical on October 21 called "Livin' Inside Out in an Upside Down World." THESE KIDS ARE SOOOOOOO TALENTED! Honestly, I didn't have enough solo singing parts to give away. Seriously...I could have filled 15 leading roles with talented kids who would have done a GREAT JOB! As it turned out, I gave the leading roles to the older kids, and tried to create singing solos for everyone who wanted one. I know that October 21 will be a great day.

Though we may not always recognize them, God has given every one of us in the body of Christ some talent or gift to be used to build up the body. "We have different gifts, according to the grace given us." (Romans 12:6a) I am imagining our great God "casting roles" for the Talent Show we call LIFE...matching our gifts to that perfect part which will honor Him with glory in Heaven and bring us fulfillment here on Earth.

Innocence

2007-08-25T10:33:00.000-04:00

I spent a few days this past week with my niece and nephew, Rachel and Drew Herman, my sister's children from London, Ohio. Drew will start Kindergarten on Monday, and Rachel will be in second grade. These two are so free-spirited and full of life--in the best way! Both are curious and confident and bright and funny and independent and demanding and BEAUTIFUL... and they LOVE LIFE!

Rachel wants to be a veterinarian (and, trust me...she WILL). And I am sure Drew will be a salesman of some sort....this kid with his convincing talk and good looks could persuade me to do just about ANYTHING! They love singing our rvcc Bible School songs and doing motions--especially as we go down the road in the car! They love nature walks through the creek with their new cousin, Jennifer (Troy's Jenn). They love spending the night with Baw-Baw (my mom) because they can do just about anything they want! Ahhh...the innocence of youth...how I long for those days.

He called a little child and had him stand among them. And he said: "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 18:2-4

Over My Dead Body

2007-08-22T13:50:00.000-04:00

The Cadaver Calculator. This is hilarious. If I died today and gave my body to science, Bill could collect $4200! I am not sure if that's good in relation to anyone else, so some of you should take the quiz below as well.

The site says: "Cadaver values are primarily based on overall health and the level of interest your corpse holds to the medical research industry." I'm in BIG trouble...

Perhaps I should deduct $4200 from my current life insurance policy.....lol

$4200.00

i missed the lake....

2007-08-20T13:28:00.000-04:00

Our little Lake White was really just a small pond this summer. No riding in boats, no jumping in to cool off, no knee-boarding behind the speedboat, no jumping the wake, no watching the boys ski...I missed the lake this summer.

Hopefully, it will rain enough between now and May, 2008, to raise it up a few feet. Surely, Lake White will rise...Summer will come again.

Summer Days

2007-08-13T11:19:00.000-04:00

My summer break has ended. Today is my first day back to work for the 2007-08 school year. (I know, those of you who work 12 months do NOT feel sorry for me...) I will be setting my clock for 6:00 a.m. or thereabouts for the next 202 school days...until somewhere around June 15, 2008. Summer, how I love you! .....I will miss you so.

Last summer, during our family vacation to Nashville/Memphis, we were lucky to meet Nancy Moran and hear her great folk songs live in the very small, crowded Bluebird Cafe in Nashville. It was so cool.....up and coming artists relaxing as they sat in-the-round (that's actually what they called it) and took turns performing original music for us. Bill, Trent, and I particularly loved Nancy's voice, her creative songwriting, and her ease of using an acoustic guitar to provide such a full sound. One of her fun and creative songs (complete with harmonica and superb harmonies) comes to mind today....it's Track 4 on

her CD "Something Old, Something New" available on iTunes. I love the feeling I get when I listen to "Summer's Day"... (even though I don't have a front porch swing and don't like sleeping with cats)...

Summer's Day

It's just another summer's day
And, Lord, I am thankful to be here today
Tomorrow may not come at all, (Well you never know)
How I live for summer days!

In the morning I like to sit outside,
And wave to all the passersby
Listenin' from my front porch swing of all the carryin' on
And I hear barkin' dogs and ridin' mowers
And children on their bicycles
Going down the street, and back again
Laughin' all the while
And in the middle of the afternoon,
Construction sounds fill my livin' room
As the house next door is going up faster than we thought.
But that won't stop me from takin' a nap
On the couch, curled up, between the cats,
'Cause all this fresh air, sun, and heat
Can be a tiresome thing.
It's just another summer's day
And, Lord, I am thankful to be here today
Tomorrow may not come at all, (but that's ok)
How I live for summer days!

It's just another summer's day
Lord, how I'm thankful to be here today
If tomorrow never comes at all, (well that's ok)
'Cause I'm alive for this summer day!

Indescribable

2007-08-07T16:00:00.000-04:00

Indescribable, Uncontainable,
You placed the stars in the sky
And You know them by name.

You are amazing God...

All powerful, untamable,

Awestruck we fall to our knees
as we humbly proclaim
You are amazing God

Incomparable, unchangeable...

You see the depths of my heart
And You LOVE me the same

You are amazing God...

little bit of heaven

2007-08-01T19:21:00.000-04:00

hello from sunny southern california! bill, trent, and I are in san diego for a week....and it's MARVELOUS here! the weather, the people (so far), the relaxed atmosphere, all kinds of stuff to do, (did I mention the weather?) Anyway, I am in a place called Cafezee...30 minutes of high-speed internet for $3....what a deal! we are heading to La Jolla this evening to explore life there. as soon as i figure out how to post a picture from a computer that isn't mine, i will share some images with you.

great song from 1972...Albert Hammond...all I remember is the title... "It never rains in southern california." i was ready to jump on the albert hammond bandwagon....but now that i read the lyrics, i guess he was somewhat disenchanted with this place. so far, we haven't experienced that!

Attentive Analyst

2007-07-26T13:15:00.000-04:00

Like my friends, Marty, Anna, Lauren, Jenn, Eli, and Ryan, I took this very cool online personality test called Personal DNA. The methods of response were quite creative! (You should try it!) The results: I am an ATTENTIVE ANALYST.

"Your attention to detail, confidence, sense of order, and focus on functionality combine to make you an ANALYST. Because you like spending time with others, understand their feelings, and often know what is best for them, you are ATTENTIVE."

Hmmmm.....that could be GOOD or BAD.

"If you want to be different: While you have strong opinions about what is right and wrong in the world, you risk coming across as judgmental--be sure to consider different perspectives when voicing your opinion. You care about people, but finding the ones you can truly trust will allow you to get closer to them. "

Good advice.

(Drag mouse over each color to show what it represents)

Attentive Analyst

Lost....and Found

2007-07-25T13:53:00.000-04:00

I spent some time in Tuttle Crossing Mall yesterday. Though I am definitely an extrovert, I love shopping alone. (another post for another day) Upon completing my final purchase, I dug in my purse for the keys...and I heard my heart cry out, "OH, NO! THEY'RE LOST!"

For a time, I felt so anxious, so disconnected, so alone, so LOST. It's a gut-wrenching feeling, especially for someone like me who takes pride in preparedness. I fumbled around in the purse while my thoughts raced back and forth to all the places I had been. Then I remembered the extra single key in my wallet. Ahhh--some relief.

With my packages safe in the car, and the confidence in knowing I COULD make it home, I set out to find my lost keys. Backtracking my steps, I remembered the places I had been...2 hours earlier, I entered at Macy's, returned a dress at one counter, jewelry at another, then went to the restroom on Floor 1. The nice lady at the dress counter had not seen any keys, so she called Gift Wrap to find out if they'd been turned in. No discoveries there, either.

The lady at the jewelry counter was quite busy with customers. My anxious heart couldn't wait. "Excuse me, but has anyone found a set of keys...that perhaps were left on THAT jewelry counter?" The busy lady smiled. She stretched her arm to the top of a kiosk where the lost keys had been waiting for me to return. "Oh, my.........thank you SO MUCH."

FOUND.

Relief. Security. Gratitude. Celebration. Rest.

(The Message) Luke 15: 8-10 "Or imagine a woman who has ten coins and loses one. Won't she light a lamp and scour the house, looking in every nook and cranny until she finds it? And when she finds it you can be sure she'll call her friends and neighbors: 'Celebrate with me! I found my lost coin!' Count on it—that's the kind of party God's angels throw every time one lost soul turns to God."

The Right Place

2007-07-23T22:03:00.001-04:00

Wow....these faces bring me so much JOY! Tonight, we had our church-wide summer picnic at Long's Retreat. Kids laughing and having fun...there's NOTHING quite like it!

I know that God's plan and desire for me here on this earth is to spend my time listening, teaching, loving His children. It's one thing that comes so easily and brings complete fulfillment. When I am in the midst of a project with kids--vbs or a kids' musical or a Long's Retreat picnic---I know I am in the right place. No pressure, no worries, no doubts. A chance to love my life! Finding that "right place" is a perpetual quest to uncover His desire in our lives. I am not always sure how to get there....but I definitely know when I have arrived!

Rookie Blogger

2007-07-22T23:17:00.001-04:00

I have reservations about starting a blog. Anna thinks I should. But I am not sure I have anything interesting enough that is not-so-private enough that I have time and energy enough to post. We shall see.