01.21.12

Happy 2012!

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Hey Everybody,

It�s January 2012 and I still can�t believe it. It seems that only a few months ago we were all preparing for the new millennium. My parents were right � the older you get the faster the time seems to go�

We�ve just returned from a couple of great concerts. We were in Concord, NC for Motor Racing Outreach Ladies Night and Opp, AL with Comfort Care. Both were great events with warm, sweet people. I�ve said it before and I�ll say it again� the best thing about what I do is being able to meet the incredible people I come in contact with. I feel so blessed.

We�ve some time off before the North Carolina Church of God Ladies Conference on March 02. I�m looking forward to some of the things I love: shopping, cooking, and spending days with the people I love. Even the holidays aren�t better than that.

I pray for you all a prosperous, joyful New Year, and I pray that you will be able to squeeze every ounce of good out of every minute of every day. Remember, you only get one chance to live each day. Make it count!

We love you!

Janet

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12.10.11

Merry Christmas !

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Hey Everybody,

I wanted to write and wish you all a very Merry Christmas!

The parking lots are full and the traffic is congested. (I love it.) Bells are ringing and lines are long. (I love that, too.) Newspapers are chunky and our organizational skills are maxed out (Yes, I love that, too.)

I pray for you all warm, slow days with those you love. I pray that we will take a second look at the manger and God’s irrational introduction to mankind. I pray that we will take a second look at each other, too, witnesses of love personified and wrapped in swaddling clothes.

I pray that the voids brought by loss and disappointment, this season, “will only bring a smile”, as God’s great sovereignty renews our strength and reestablishes our foothold.

I pray for you joy and laughter and a hard drive full of memories!

We love you and we look forward to seeing you in 2012!

Blessings,
Janet

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11.05.11

The Most Wonderful Holiday of the Year

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We are counting down the days until Thanksgiving - my favorite holiday. Everyone is coming to our house again this year so I’ll be busy cooking, baking, planning, and I am going to LOVE EVERY MINUTE OF IT. I wish Thanksgiving came every month!

I hope your days are full and warm. I hope your yeast rolls rise (mine, too!) and the appetites you manage are satiated and then some! I also hope you find some great bargains on Friday morning while some of the world sleeps. I will, again, be venturing out before it is day to snag a place in line on Black Friday. Let the games begin!!

We love you and we look forward to seeing you soon.

Blessings,
Janet

P.S. Below is a picture of my fabulous birthday celebration: food and fun with the people you love. It doesn’t get better than that. They even let me win a game!

THE HIGHEST FORM OF THOUGHT by Janet Paschal
It has become a family tradition. Following our Thanksgiving meal, we begin at the head of the table and each person shares the things for which they are most grateful. We recount blessings both familiar and new. Moving clockwise, we nudge both ends of the spectrum, laughing and crying in turn.

During that time around the table, the hearts of everyone in the room are on the same page. We understand what it means to be filled with gratitude. We grasp that we are blessed beyond measure simply because there are no empty chairs.

G.K. Chesterton maintained that gratitude was the highest form of thought. A friend of mine says it is the only virtue that God expects. It is when our hearts are grateful, she says, that blessings are passed from one generation to the next. Gratitude can be a choice we make or a response to our circumstances. Ironically, the desires of our heart can draw us toward gratitude, whether those desires are fulfilled or denied.

Sometimes it is loss that makes us grateful. Who can fully appreciate a healthy back until it wields pain at every bend or movement? Can you truly be grateful for a child with good reflexes and a responsive mind if you have never seen that tiny form being prepped for scans and vitals? Who can honestly grasp what a privilege it is to dial a well-worn number and hear a parent�s familiar response until the phone goes unanswered and the voice silent? It is only when we digest our loss, kneeling by a freshly dug grave, barely able to breathe or function, that we grasp how much we possess.

My husband lived in Denver during the reign of the Broncos and their hero, John Elway. Since boyhood, Elway had dreamed of playing football and winning a Superbowl. He spent his entire life working toward that Sunday in 1998 when the Broncos beat Green Bay for their first Superbowl championship. Some time later Elway would tell an interviewer, �I have lived my whole life since I was five years old dreaming of that day. There I was, on the field, holding the hardware, smiling at the camera, doing the obligatory, �I�ll see you in Disney�, and I didn�t even get off the field before it began to feel hollow. The next two months were the darkest of my life. I was more depressed than I had ever been because I had gotten to the top and it returned nothing. Since I was the quarterback they let me take it home and for the next two months, I sat in my living room looking at it. I tried to look at it from every angle. I walked the floor at night looking at it and, still, it could not satisfy.�(paraphrased)

Sometimes it is a dream realized that makes us grateful for the ordinary. Sometimes we are grateful that we could not reach the things we could not hold. Sometimes we discover that the journey to the top was better than being there.

When my sister was diagnosed with breast cancer, she and her husband returned home to ponder the treatment options and recommendations. She recalls walking into their home, looking in the mirror, and thinking that she looked the same. She had no protrusions, no visible signs of illness. She did not feel sick. She had no pain, nothing that would indicate that she needed treatment of any description. After her first chemotherapy session, she still felt no side effects. It was on day three that she began to understand the severity of her treatment. As the treatments progressed and her body responded to the wrenching battery of drugs, she faced the escalating side effects. In a poignant statement, she said that it was only after realizing the severity of the treatment that she realized the severity of the disease. After she grasped the severity of the disease, she (and we) could better understand what a blessing it was to sit at the Thanksgiving table with good reports.

Life teaches us to be grateful. It strips through the superfluous and fine tunes our focus. For the believer, it eventually demonstrates that all things work together for the good of those who love God. For that we are particularly grateful.

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10.11.11

Falling for Fall

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Hey Everybody,

It is October and it is fall - my favorite time of the year. John has planted bulbs and propped hay and pumpkins on the front porch. Soon it will be cool enough to light a fire. Nothing says that fall has arrived quite like the crackle and smell of the first fire of the season. The leaves are turning rich, dramatic colors and the countryside is breathtaking. Mark Lowry says God is showing off.

Mark called a few days ago and, as always, he asked what I was reading. I have been reading only the Bible for about three months. I enjoy that because it is not someone’s ‘take’ on history, but a trustworthy account. And no literature in the world has any more interesting stories than those in the Old Testament, with its characters and geneologies. I’m in Kings at the moment, and Israel is frustratingly human!!

This is a busy month, and I am loving it. I have been able to match faces with some folks who have written and emailed; that is always a treat. My sister, I and our two cousins have birthdays this month, so we will spend a day celebrating: shopping, dining, and, most importantly, visiting. Life doesn’t get a lot better than that.

I hope your days are full and warm. I hope your plans exceed your expectations and your ordinary days prove extraordinary.

We love you, and we hope to see some of you this month.

Blessings,
Janet

October 2011
01 Morganton, North Carolina
Mount Home Baptist Church Website (828) 437-0593
06 Spartanburg, South Carolina
First Baptist Church Website (864) 583-7245
07 Franklin Springs, Georgia
Emmanuel College
The Swails Center Website (706) 245-7226 ext. 2863
08 Moore, South Carolina
Bethlehem Baptist Church Website (864) 576-6355
09 Concord, North Carolina
Parkwood Baptist Church Website (704) 782-0565
16 El Cajon, California
Shadow Mountain Community Church Website (619) 590-1766
21 Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Gaither Fest Website
22 Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Gaither Fest Website
29 Dana Point, California
Private Event
30 Bakersfield, California
Canyon Hills Assembly of God Website (661) 871-1150

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09.08.11

One Day

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Hey Everybody,

It is September, and we’re gearing up to hit the road again. Fall is busy, and we are looking forward to each and every event - and we are looking forward to seeing a lot of familiar faces again!

On Sunday, we will celebrate the unbending faith and resilient human spirit that survives ten years following September 11, 2001. Following is a piece I wrote a few months ago. Seems to fit this weekend.

One Day
I have known her for years. Our backgrounds are extraordinarily similar and when I visited her dad�s church for a concert, she and I became instant friends. Her family is one of those rich genetic lines through which runs character, poise, meekness and a sense of humor. Their leadership is innate, as evidenced by the throng of people who trekked weekly to that tiny Pennsylvania borough and to the magnificent sanctuary he built.

He is completely engaging, adeptly incorporating modern day analogies into Biblical events. His warmth from the podium always reminded me of my grandfather; when you left his church you felt as though you had been hugged. His natural grace extends to the dinner table and he masterfully includes each person in the conversation.

One ordinary day, my friend raced her boyfriend up a flight of stairs and did irreparable damage to some clandestine nerve endings. She was suddenly and unexpectedly in excruciating pain. This fit, athletic young lady was reduced to near helplessness. Almost a decade later, despite extensive treatment from the country�s leading experts, her condition continues to deteriorate. Her pain has robbed her of a number of things that she deeply loved: her first home, a promising career, and social interaction with her peers. She has been forced to surrender long held dreams to God�s sovereignty; closely guarded independence to His foreknowledge.

Her sagacious father was left to assemble the pieces of her life in such a way that it made sense on some level; sense to her, to her family, and to his congregation. Their faith remained strong, deeply rooted in their history. They were (and are) not swayed by the assault on the temporary. Their focus is fixed on forever.

In Phillip Yancey�s book, What Good Is God?, he shares the story of what was, for him, a life-altering event. In 2007, his vehicle crashed, overturning down an icy embankment. Strapped onto a gurney, he was told that his neck was broken and the fracture was perilously close to an artery. For several hours he was denied medication, as they tested his responses. He tells of his doctor�s constant probing, sticking, pressing, always followed by the question, �Does this hurt?� All responses affirmative, he doctor answered �That�s good.� The fact that he felt pain indicated that the spinal cord was not damaged. Pain offered proof of life, Yancey said. It was a vital sign that his body remained whole.

Dallas Willard wrote that �Nothing irredeemable has happened or can happen to us on our way to our destiny in God�s full world.� Nothing. Paul wrote that all things work together for good to those who love God; one translation says that in all things God works together with those who love Him to bring about what is good. All things.

A few years ago I took some nagging questions and eventually arrived at what I really believe. My journal read, �I have questioned His ways. I asked �Why?� and �Why not?� I have gazed at the stars on a clear night and asked, �Are You really there?�

But Lord, I have resolved….
….. to trust You when I disagree with You
….. to walk beside You on those days I�d rather lag behind
….. to sit and learn when I would rather go and do
….. to died, convinced there is no other way to live�

One day the losses that my friend in Pennsylvania has endured will be redeemed. One day the suffering endured by those who love God will stand as a testament to His enduring faithfulness. Until then, we echo Yancey�s conviction that pain offers proof of life, proof that we remain whole. We drink from the cup of sorrow knowing that, one day, it will pass. And our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. (Romans 8:18)
One day.
We love you all…
Janet

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07.10.11

In The Good Old Summertime

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Hey Everybody,

It’s summertime, and the living is, well, relatively easy. It is very hot in Carolina, so a day in the 80s is something to look forward to. Maggie and the girls in the yard are doing wonderfully; this is their time of year, you know.

The benefit in Edmonton, Alberta turned out even better than expected. Those wonderful people raised over $160,000 for missions and Huldah Buntain has a project already lined up. If you would like to read more about this amazing lady and her organization, you may visit her website: www.buntain.org

One of my best friends who is a Master Gardener came for a visit last week to help us redo the island and dry creek bed in our front yard. She designed it, then helped John and me purchase trees and shrubs, dig holes, and plant, water, feed, and mulch the strip of land. Every day it seemed to grow bigger. We are still waiting for a couple of matching shrubs before it will be complete but it is looking great and it holds great memories of her visit. She is one of those rare people who leave behind more than they take; we speak of her words and her stories long after she has flown back to Louisiana.

We are gearing up for Vacation Bible School this week, and, once again, my sister, mom, and I will be serving food to the more than 200 children who attend nightly. It is one of the things to which I most look forward.

Have a great, safe summer. We will be in touch next month.

We love you!!

Janet

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05.09.11

Alabama On Our Minds

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I have just returned from Tuscaloosa where we partnered with Comfort Care of Alabama for a Tornado Relief concert. On Thursday night we raised $5,000 and on Friday night in Brewton, the concert attendees added a truckload of basic essentials for the people of that state. God bless America…

I was granted a behind-the-scenes tour of the hardest hit areas. Amid the indescribable pictures, it was encouraging to see the people and corporations who have joined hands, hearts, and logistics to reach out to the people of that area. Tide laundry (P&G, I suppose) set up a free washer and dryer facility along the main stretch of highway; next door was a makeshift Duracell battery charging station; at posts all throughout the worst areas the National Guard offered free water and tarps. Many national companies sent supplies, stations, and volunteers to work hands-on as the area begins a long recovery. I spent the day alternating between deep sadness and sheer pride at the response of a nation under God that does not wait to be asked, but who moves without hesitation to help someone whose need is more imminent.

I know that the people of Alabama and the other areas affected sincerely covet your prayers. I also suspect that many of you have already been praying for them. That, too, makes me proud.

We love you. We appreciate you, too.

Blessings,
Janet

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04.11.11

Happy Spring

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Hey Everybody,

Just a quick note to say that Spring has arrived in the Carolinas, and no one is happier than Maggie the Matriarch or Moe the Survivor. They are thriving from the spring rains and sunny days. Maggie is certain to secure her position as ‘Belle of the Ball’ in a few weeks.

We’ve just returned from a statewide women’s conference in South Carolina, home of Palmettos, Peaches, Blue Bloods, and Old Money. These SC ladies did not disappoint. They were warm, lovely, and very responsive as the group of 900 became one Body and we all left feeling that we had been a part of something very special. I love it when God does that.

John and I enjoy this time of year because we both love working outdoors. We pull out the root starter, the fertilizer, the shovel and the garden hose. He digs, and I supervise. He hauls and I make recommendations. He cultivates and I offer suggestions as to how he could work more efficiently. After working to the point of exhaustion, we shower and go out for a long, leisurely dinner. My favorite moment is when we turn into the driveway and the headlights capture all the fruits of our labor. Makes it worthwhile; a really sweet payoff.

Today my sister shared with her Sunday School class that her daffodils were not blooming. She read a gardening expert who said that it helps to occasionally dig the bulbs and replant. He wrote that daffodils grow better if they are periodically disturbed. You know where she took that analogy. When our lives are being ‘disturbed’, we are a short season from a whole new level of blooming. I love it!

We love you all. Have a great April!

Blessings,
Janet

Maggie II insisted that I include her….

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03.09.11

Doubt

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It was a series of fireside chats with a handful of friends that transformed C.S. Lewis from a belief in atheism to a belief in God. He would refer to J.R. Tolkien and Hugo Dyson as the immediate cause of his conversion and describe his indebtedness toward them as �incalculable�. He recounts his initial encounter with God as follows:

�A young atheist cannot guard his faith too carefully. Dangers lie in wait for him on every side. My Adversary would not argue philosophy. He only said, �I am the Lord. I am that I am. I am.� You must picture me alone in that room in Magdalen, night after night, feeling, whenever my mind lifted even for a second from my work, the steady, unrelenting approach of Him whom I so earnestly desired not to meet. That which I greatly feared had at last come upon me. In the Trinity Term of 1929 I gave in, and admitted that God was God, and knelt and prayed: perhaps, that night, the most dejected and reluctant convert in England. I did not then see what is now the most shining and obvious thing; the Divine humilty which will accept a convert even on such terms. The Prodigal Son at least walked home on his own feet. But who can duly adore that Love which will open the high gates to a prodigal who is brought in kicking, struggling, resentful and darting his eyes in every direction for a chance of escape? The words �compel them to come in� plumb the depth of the divine mercy.�

Lewis went on to author lauded commentaries on living the Christian life, but it was the death of his beloved wife that caused him to revisit his doubt and rethink his perception of God. He wrote, �Your bid - for God or no God - will not be serious if nothing much is staked on it. And you will never discover how serious it was until the stakes are raised horribly high.� In other words, it is not a difficult thing to say that we believe in God when it costs us nothing. It is relatively easy to fall into step with like believers when the events of our lives proceed as usual. It is when tragedy strikes, and we spiral helplessly through the dark chasm of the unknown that we begin to understand what it means to surrender control; to live without negotiation.

Thankfully, Jesus does not back away from our questions and doubts; in fact, He encourages them. He does not hold us at arm�s length while we struggle to reconcile what we believe. Knowing His disciple, Thomas, had reservations, He urged him, �Come ahead. See for yourself.� God used Malachi to say to Israel, �Test me in this and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it.�

�Test me; try me; see for yourself.� No believer could ask for more.

Walking with Christ is not about burying your doubts. It is about lining up to see the scarred hands, the wounded side. It is about pressing in and drinking deeply of His word, His promises, His presence. It is about interpreting the events of your life through His perspective, and not your own.

In 1941, Lewis preached a sermon at Oxford titled, THE WEIGHT OF GLORY. In it, he abbreviated his faith and lent perspective to the rest of us when he wrote, �I believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has risen. Not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else.�

I don�t doubt it.

I hope you all have a happy March. We have spotted a couple of bulbs that couldn’t wait any longer to show off their spring wardrobe. I’m loving it!

Blessings,
Janet

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02.12.11

Happy Valentine’s Day !!

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It’s Thursday morning in North Carolina, where we awoke to a light dusting of snow. While I am a lover of winter (and spring, summer, and fall), I am ready for it to be over. I have begun buying summer clothes, hoping to spur Mother Nature along. At the least, they make my closet seem warmer.

John is in Tucson with a Boeing 777. He will not be home until after Valentine’s Day. According to the Female Demerit System, that means that I will get a REALLY nice gift when he returns. Delayed holiday celebrations accrue exorbitant interest, according to the the FDS.

Before John and I married, we read John’s Gray’s book, Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus. He explained the vastly different methods employed by men and women to ’score’ their spouse’s behavior. The big takeaway for John was that if he did something I liked, he would probably add only one ‘point’; if he did something I did not like, he was capable of losing five or ten ‘points’. I had no problem with the scoring system, as men usually credit or debit a single point, no matter how momentous. Men like to keep things simple, I guess.

So this week, a dear friend of more than 25 years sent me this synopsis of the Female Demerit System, which I am happy to share with you all.

FEMALE DEMERIT SYSTEM*
In the world of romance, one single rule applies: Make the woman happy. Do something she likes and you get points. Do something she dislikes and points are subtracted. You don’t get any points for doing something she expects.

Here is a man’s guide to the point system:

You make the bed (+1)
You make the bed, but forget the decorative pillows (0)

You check out a suspicious noise at night (+1)
You check out a suspicious noise at night and it is nothing (0)
You check out a suspicious noise at night and it is something (+5)
You pummel it with an iron rod (+10)
It’s her pet (-20)

When she wants to talk, you listen, displaying a concerned expression (0)
You listen for more than 30 minutes (+50)
You listen for more than 30 minutes without looking at the tv (+500)
She realizes this is because you have fallen asleep (-4000)

You develop a noticeable potbelly (-15)
You exercise to get rid of it (+10)
You say, “It doesn’t matter, you have one, too.” (-8000)

She asks, “Do I look fat?” (-5) (You lose points no matter what)
You hesitate in responding (-10)
You reply, “Where?” (-35)
Any other response (-20)

When John and I first married, one of our favorite things to do was yardwork. We planted a lot of trees, then proceeded to name and converse with them (okay, that was mostly me). One afternoon I pulled from the ground a spindly sycamore trunk and tossed it into a nearby ditch. John suggested we plant it, as we had nothing to lose. He became Moe, the Survivor, and a mascot for two people who were adjusting to co-habitating after living alone for a lot of years. Moe was a constant reminder of what can happen when you make up your mind to commit to something - or when you place a stick in the ground.

I hope that Monday is your best Valentine’s Day ever. I hope you will grant your spouse a bonus point or two and I hope that if your relationship is in need of nurturing, you’ll dig a little deeper, mix in some nutrients, and watch it grow. You may be pleasantly surprised!

Love,
Janet

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01.10.11

Books, Books, Books

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My great-grandmother was one of those people who jumped into life with both feet and without reservation. She would meet you at the door of her tiny home, take your arm, and escort you to the kitchen. This was her domain. This was what she knew; what she loved. She would automatically begin preparing you something to eat and drink. (She could not imagine that you would not be hungry when you came.) That done, she would converse with you in a humble, sweet, inquisitive manner, and she never ran out of something to say. Ever.

Her life�s philosophy was that you should only consume or engage in things that you love. She would ask if you loved chicken soup, or apple pie, or coffee. She wanted you to take a walk in the garden if you would love to. She would give you almost any possession she had if you really loved it. Not a bad life�s philosophy, really.

One thing which I have loved all of my life is a good book. As such, some people have suggested that I write an autobiography of my life and career. (Okay, only a couple and one of them was my mom.) I usually respond that, besides the fact that it would be incredibly boring, I simply did not see any reason for it. Perhaps this offering will be a biography, of sorts, from the perspective of the books that have been meaningful to me. One warning, however: Do not drive or operate heavy machinery during this reading, as it could prove hazardous or even fatal.

My first book came from my grandmother and I read it over and over until it literally came apart in my hands. It was a collection of fairy tales, complete with colorful illustrations and a shiny cover. I just loved it.

When I was a young girl in high school, I discovered Grace Livingston Hill, and was captivated by her stories of innocence and goodness. I read Margaret Mitchell�s Gone With The Wind tucked away in a window seat of the school bus. My Literature teacher was Mr. Loflin, a wheelchair bound, tough taskmaster. He not only taught us to read Shakespeare, but he helped us to �get� it. Even now (lo, these many years later) I still remember passages verbatim.

When I began traveling with the LeFevres (who became the Nelons) I discovered Eugenia Price’s The Burden Is Light, which led to her groundbreaking radio show. I pictured with clarity the budding tree outside her window which she was convinced God had orchestrated to be there precisely when she was.

While traveling with the Jimmy Swaggart crusades, we often spent extended periods overseas. I learned to pack a dozen Agatha Christie murder mysteries knowing that, amidst the poverty and the crude living situations, they would transport me to a totally different place. In no time at all, I could be sorting out suspicious behaviors on the Orient Express or savoring the indulgences of a lovely country estate where the rich and beautiful had gathered for a weekend of murder and mayhem.

When my heart was broken, I found solace in Chuck Swindoll�s Three Steps Forward, Two Steps Back and Improving Your Serve. One of the books that helped me gain perspective on knowing Christ was The Making Of A Man Of God by Alan Redpath. When I could not reconcile some of life�s twists and outcomes, I discovered David Wilkerson�s Have You Felt Like Giving Up Lately? All of these books I still read with some regularity.

When I signed with Word Records and began my solo career, I discovered Ann Kiemel, and a tiny book titled, Yes! Her candace and her simplicity impacted my writing perhaps more than anything.

When I read Frederic Buechner�s Now And Then, I immediately purchased everything he�d ever written. I read each book slowly, deliberately, purposefully absorbing not only his story, but the way he told it. He fed us small portions, each building onto the next event until they all suddenly intersected and made sense. His grasp of the language left me repeatedly uttering my favored, �Uhhhhm.� Even today I keep multiple copies of his biographies, The Sacred Journey and Now And Then, just so that I can give them to people who come to our home.
My best friend suggested I try Cold Sassy Tree by Olive Ann Burns and it, too, has become a staple. In my opinion, this book, more than any other, epitomizes the joy of reading.

I discovered Theodore Dreiser courtesy of a matronly librarian in Smyrna, Georgia. His classic, An American Tragedy, became another that I would read multiple times and recommend to friends. While his stories seem to come from a place of sadness or tragedy, they are classic fictional tales that haunt me still.

One of my personal favorites is Rick Bragg - a southern boy who wanted to make his mama proud, and whose biographical All Over But the Shoutin� made me feel two extremes. First of all, I felt that the writer in me had happened upon Christmas morning when the gifts are so good that you cannot absorb the joy in one sitting. Secondly, it made the writer in me consider a career as a Wal-Mart greeter. I still read the book about every two years (as well as his other titles) and I still shake my head at his descriptive phrases and perfect analogies. And the payoff at the end is simply icing on the cake. When I met him at a bookstore in Nashville I could only babble. I am an outright, unapologetic fan.

When I read for pleasure these days, I enjoy Pat Conroy, John Lescroart, Steve Martini, Ridley Pearson and Sue Grafton. When I�m feeling rusty at what I do, I reread Lilly Walters� What To Say When You�re Dying On The Platform, Ken Blanchard�s One Minute Manager and Steven Covey�s The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.

My faith was shaped by Catherine Marshall�s lovely take on her living, breathing, day-to-day relationship with Christ. I was called to account by CS Lewis� Screwtape Letters (I still have to read that in small doses) and Phillip Yancey�s Disappointment With God, in addition to Phillip Yancey�s anything.

My recounting of the books which have affected me deeply, personally, is limited by the space on this page. But this is a good start.

So, for those of you who are still awake, that�s the story of my life, as told by the silent friends who occupy the shelves in our family room. They are consistent and enduring. And my great-grandmother would be pleased to know that I truly love them.

Happy reading!

Love,
Janet

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12.09.10

Farewell, Elizabeth

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Even in the midst of the wonderful Christmas season, our hearts are saddened by the loss of one of our own, Elizabeth Edwards.

Elizabeth discovered her breast cancer at about the same time that I discovered mine. She began treatment in late 2004 and I waited until January 2005. My sister, Kay, was diagnosed two years after that; one week later her lifelong friend, Judy, was diagnosed. We lost Judy this year, too.

Kay and I do not understand why we are still here and they are not. But we are grateful.

Every day is a reason for celebration, whether we hang lights and trim trees or revisit the ordinary, the familiar. Nothing brings that message home quite like following signs to oncology.

Life is not always perfect, but it is always more good than bad.

Enjoy this wonderful holiday season. Every minute of it.

We hope to see you soon.

Love,
Janet

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11.10.10

Coming Out Of The Shed

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There is an old Chinese proverb which says, �Distance lends enchantment to the view.� I think that�s probably true, but, still, there are days I�d love to go back - back to childhood summers, dinner around our family table, and Sunday mornings at our house. I honestly think they were as great as I recall.

Our summers at home were fun: Kay, indoors, practicing her homemaking skills and I, outdoors, locating the perfect tree to climb. We had a real playhouse, a swingset and a bicycle, not to mention a forest of Carolina black pines behind our backyard.

One of our favorite indoor pasttimes was constructing a tent in the kitchen (a quilt pulled tight over chair backs and held by heavy books.) We�d take pimento cheese sandwiches inside and watch �I Love Lucy� on the 19� black and white tv my dad won at the local car dealership. Pimento cheese never tasted as good, or Lucy�s antics seem as comical.

Because we had a very strict upbringing and were not exposed to the worldly vices of that day, one summer afternoon Kay and I decided to take matters into our own hands. We agreed to say all of the bad words we knew. We walked outdoors to our dad�s workshed, went inside, closed and locked the door, and proceeded to say the bad words. There were two. It was so strange hearing them in our voices. A few minutes later, we repented fervently and left the shed. Our conscience plagued us for a long time over that one.

My mom cooked dinner every night (and breakfast every morning.) We all sat at the table, together, at the same time and everyone shared what had happened at work or school. Kay always told her stories so well (aiding and abetting where necessary) that I usually deferred to her. Even as a child I remember looking forward to �supper� because that�s when everyone just talked together. That is still one of my favorite things.

Sunday mornings were extremely predictable. My dad sang hymns along with the television singers, Kay dressed early and practiced her piano, and my mom took a few extra moments to dress. Each week she looked more beautiful. We�d load into the car, Kay and I in patent leather shoes (she with matching purse,) and head for my grandpa�s church. My grandmother taught our Sunday School class for several years and we loved that. At one point, they purchased an easel board complete with individual Bible characters made of felt that stuck onto the board, allowing the teacher to illustrate stories and people more colorfully. We thought we�d moved into the ranks of the high church.

At the bell we�d run - ah, walk - to the sanctuary for the worship service. In my mind�s eye I can see every detail: Mrs. Payne sitting at the piano with her pocketbook at her feet, my grandmother sitting on the inside row, second pew, and my grandfather making sure he shook every hand in the congregation before he mounted the pulpit. Following announcements and prayer requests we�d grab a hymnal from the pew in front of us and turn the worn pages to the familiar pieces we sang over and over. After identifying the song, some of us would smugly close the book again just to emphasize the fact that we knew the words. Oh, the crazy things we did….

As a child, I did not realize that the hymns we sang found lodging deep inside the core of who I am. I did not realize that the theology contained in the great songs of the church would strengthen and uphold me years later when, as Job, the thing I most feared came upon me. I did not know that the poetry and rhyme of the ancient writers would help shape the person I am or who I will yet become.

Now, when I hear an old familiar lyric, it is almost like riding up the road, over the railroad tracks, past the small white mission, and left at the country store. The driveway goes uphill - to the big oak tree where Larry Perkins used to tease me and say that he was my boyfriend - to the little church that was air-conditioned before any of our homes or cars - to the graveyard where my grandfather waits for his bright tomorrow.

While the hymns can�t transport me back to those days, their rhythmic words on a page help define my faith. They ignite my memory. They lend perspective to grim days. They woo me back to my first love.

So, on a given day, I�d go back if I could; not to change anything much, but just to live it all again. It was so simple and so pure. Well, except for that shed thing.

Have a blessed November…Janet

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10.16.10

ONCE UPON A TIME

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When my sister and I were young, The Wizard of Oz was televised once a
year and always on Sunday night. It was a major event; the
quintessential children�s classic. It began in black and white and
changed to technicolor, and the host cautioned the audience lest they
think their set defective. (Our set did not change so we were spared
that adjustment.) Weeks in advance, we would begin pleading our case
to skip church so that we could watch it. Our batting average was
about .500.

Under a homemade �tent� (a quilt positioned over chair backs
and held by heavy books) we watched Lucy Ricardo�s antics and
laughed until we cried. I think we both hoped her schemes would work
for her now and then. Most of the time they did not.

We were glued to the set for any appearance featuring the magical
Shirley Temple. We thought her the fairest of them all. Her movies
always made us laugh and they always made us cry.

When my sister was a teenager she loved Marlo Thomas in That Girl.
We both marveled at Ann Marie�s massive eyelashes and perfect hair.
Her clothes were provided by Ohrbach�s (not sure why I remember
that) and it was worth watching the show just to see her fancy,
beautiful outfits, and her perfectly coordinated purses and shoes.

We watched beach movies featuring Gidget and her various leading men
who could, somehow, surf the waves of the Atlantic while carrying on a
conversation with fellow surfers lined up alongside them. We rooted
for backwoods Tammy and her doctor, Cinderella and her Prince, and
Peter Pan and his Tinkerbell.

To say things have changed since then is like saying that a supersonic
jet is faster than a stagecoach. We�ve thrown satellites into space
and fine-tuned our senses until we can hardly bear to be entertained
without high definition and plasma panels. I recall adjusting the
aluminum foil attached to my parent�s antenna so as to enhance the
reception of our three stations, all of which signed off at midnight.
Now our multi-faceted signal is piped directly into our homes or
handhelds and we never have to miss a beat.

About the only thing that has not changed is the fact that
entertainment, old and new, still hinges on a good story. The writers
made us care about Shirley�s dad who was fighting in the war; about
Cinderella�s cruel treatment, and Dorothy�s quest for home. The
dancing and singing, the glass slipper, and the yellow brick road were
icing on the cake. The crux of each experience, the bottom line, was
the story.

Even Jesus taught the crowds in stories. Maybe He knew that we would
more quickly grasp the significance of what He was saying if He shared
in parables. Who has not rejoiced for the Samaritan who administered
oil and wine to that halting, suffering robbery victim? (Luke
10:25-37) Who has not re-evaluated their own choices when they read
of the rich man who worked for material gain, only to die before he
enjoyed any of it? (Luke 12:16-21) And who can forget the mental
picture of the wayward prodigal who returned home to a feast instead
of a rebuke? (Luke 15)

Maybe He feared that we would not fully grasp the urgency of His
messages if He didn�t spell them out for us. Maybe He wanted to
offer it so simply that a child could understand and believe. Maybe
Jesus talked in stories because He knew we would, ourselves, each have
a story.

Your story may not be rags to riches. You may not dance in the
spotlight. You may not have tailored clothes with massive eyelashes
and perfect hair. But your story is one of a kind; unique to you. Your
DNA is not duplicated by another person on the planet. The qualities
that make you who you are are yours alone, and He has been aware of
you since you were made in secret; since you were in your mother�s
womb. All of the days of your life were written in His book before you
ever drew a breath. He knows when you sit and stand. He knows what you
are going to say before you say it. He thinks of you more often than
there are grains of sand on all of the beaches of the world.

Now, that is a story.

Blessings,
Janet

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08.12.10

WALKING THE GOOD ROAD Interview

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Hey Everybody,

Here’s an interview you do not want to miss! Deborah Gardner is a pastor’s wife and the owner of a lovely boutique in Columbus, Mississippi. Her passion is addictive, her story inspirational. Enjoy!!

Deborah Gardner Interview

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07.07.10

Inspiration Network Shoot

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Hey Everybody,

Leaving for Texas tomorrow. Hoping it is cooler there than here. 99 degrees in North Carolina today.

The concert at INSP was just wonderful. People/ survivors came from Florida, Virginia, Texas to �participate in our Survivor segment. We had an incredible choir (renamed ‘Janet’s Choir’) and backup singers, with Milton Smith on the piano and my sister, Kay, making a special appearance. We’ve uploaded pictures on our Facebook page - JanetPaschalAndFriends.

It was an honor to share the stage with the folks who have confronted a cancer diagnosis head-on and walked away from it. Made me so proud. I don’t think anyone wanted the evening to end. It simply passed too quickly!!

Hope you all have a fantastic July. We’ll be in touch!

Love,

Janet

PS… Our new radio segment features the fabulous Karen Peck. You don’t want to miss it!

Karen Peck Interview

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06.08.10

Looking For Survivors

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Hey Everybody,

It’s June, and we are working on a great event. Again.

We are looking for cancer survivors for a live concert taping for the Inspiration Network. It will take place on Thursday, July 1, in Indian Land, SC (Charlotte area) and we’d love to have YOU join us. The network is providing special seating and dedicating a special portion of the program to you. You may feel a little spoiled, and rightly so.

If you live in the area (or if you can get here), have a pink outfit (or if you can borrow one), enjoy gospel concerts (or think you might), let us know. Simply send an email to us: janetandfriends@gmail.com and we will send you the concert details and help secure your spot. The program also features the fabulous Bowling Family, the Crist Family and the Dove Brothers. You do not want to miss it. By the way, did I mention that it is free? I told you they’d spoil you!!

Have a great June. We love hearing from you.

Love,
Janet

[caption id=”attachment_199″ align=”aligncenter” width=”300″ caption=”Ravi Zacharias spoke Saturday morning. It was just wonderful.”][/caption]

Check out the new Photo Album, FAMILY FEST 2010 on Janet’s Facebook Page:

JANET PASCHAL AND FRIENDS

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05.24.10

Janis Lewis Phillips Interview

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A member of the famous Lewis Family, Janis’ simple, matter-of-fact storytelling will touch you and you’ll want to hear more. That’s a promise!

Janis Lewis Interview

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05.14.10

Tina Piccirilli Interview

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Tina is coordinating Duke Medical Center’s Cancer Survivor Day, May 23, 2010. This is great information for that very special day.

Tina Piccirilli Interview

Enjoy!

Janet

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04.27.10

Connie Hopper Interview

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There is no one more beloved in gospel music than this lady, Connie Hopper. Here is her story.

Connie Hopper

Blessings,
Janet

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04.20.10

Sheri Easter Interview

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This is what Sheri does best - sharing with the rest of us. Her story is one of my favorites.

Sheri Easter

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04.05.10

Laura Houchin Interview-Walking The Good Road

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Laura was the manager of the chemotherapy treatment room at Duke Medical for several years. Her insight is wonderful. Her story, too!

Laura Houchin Interview

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03.27.10

Interview with Dee Sapp

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Hey Everybody,
Here’s our WALKING THE GOOD ROAD interview with Dee Sapp. Dee and husband, Gary, have been ministering to people in Louisiana for decades - literally! Her story will inspire you - it is amazing!

Dee Sapp Interview

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03.03.10

What If ??

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Hey Everybody,

Okay, I�ve thought about it and I�m ready to come clean. I admit it. I�m a bookaholic.

I love to own them, to hold them. I love the way they feel, the way they smell. I read some of them multiple times, finding a new sense of the story with each hearing. I�ve been told there is probably a book that would help me with this obsession, but I�m not interested. I don�t want to be cured.

That said, I recently re-read Corrie Ten Boom�s classic, The Hiding Place. The absorbing account of her family�s encounter with mankind�s barbaric breach is just as I remembered - bitterly wonderful.

During this particular reading, one sentence in her narrative stood out. Toward the end of her story she returns home alone, her father having died shortly after their arrest and her beloved sister shortly before their release. She wrote that her first thoughts were, �What if Betsie had lived a few days more? What if they�d released us a little sooner? What if �Papa had come back when he had the chance? What if….� Then she made a great statement. She said there really are no �what ifs� in God�s kingdom. None.

Have you ever played that deceptive little game? What if I�d been born sooner, or later, or prettier, or wiser? What if I�d known the right people, said the right things, changed my major, or taken a risk? What if I�d married sooner, or later, or married someone else? What if I�d trusted my instinct or chased my dream or shunned convention?

I love the story of Paul, the apostle. He was a natural leader, brilliant, fluent in multiple languages. He rose quickly through the ranks until, well, you know the Damascus Road experience. When he began to follow Christ he found himself beaten, shipwrecked, imprisoned. He responded to various charges made against him in such a way that the rulers found it difficult to justify his arrest. He was so intelligent and so well-spoken that he confounded his accusers and confused the chief priests. During one especially long imprisonment he was brought before King Agrippa, the son of Herod, who had come to Caesarea to pay respects to Festus, the new ruler. You must picture this: Agrippa arrives with all the pomp and circumstance a nation can muster. He is accompanied by Bernice, with whom he shares an incestuous relationship. Into all their finery and luxury steps Paul, straight from his prison cell; probably unshaven,unclean, and unkempt. He has been held without justification and now must stand before yet another ruler. When Agrippa granted him permission to speak, do you remember what his very first words were? One translation says, “King Agrippa, I’m a happy man.”

Paul�s heart was content when his world was completely out of order. He didn�t waste time scouting for greener pastures or trying to make sense of his prison cell. He possessed an acute understanding, a satisfying resolve that his life was held by bigger hands.

His hand leads us and His right hand holds us. Period. End of discussion. No �what ifs?�, �why nots?� or second guessing. He leads us. He strategically orders our steps. He guides our encounters. In joy and sorrow, gain and loss, on Mondays as well as Fridays, He keeps careful watch over his beloved creation.

So the next time you�re in a bookstore, take your time and browse. Run your fingers over a book binding and open it slowly. Go to your favorite author�s section, pick up their latest offering, and ponder some of these what ifs… What if I make this purchase? What if I add it to my birthday list? What if I read it and pass it along to someone else?

I think even Corrie would approve.

We love you!

Janet

Be sure to sign up for our new Facebook Page,

JANET PASCHAL AND FRIENDS

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02.09.10

WALKING THE GOOD ROAD - Mary Ann Addison Interview

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(Click here to sign up for our monthly newsletter. We’ll keep you updated on all new posts.)

The sister of music legend Bill Gaither, Mary Ann has valiantly battled cancer for years. Her story and her articulate telling will move you and challenge your perspective on the things that matter. This is a must-hear!

Mary Ann Addison
(click on Mary Ann Addison to play the interview)

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01.09.10

Global Cooling

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Hey Everybody,

It�s January, and I am loving every chilly minute of it. I just returned from a concert at the great First Assembly in Ft. Myers, Florida where 1600 people sang, worshipped, and, in general, made for a spectacular evening. I don�t think anyone of us wanted to go home!

Everywhere I travel lately, cities are reaching record temperatures and making new lows (I�m trying not to take that personally.) We actually had a terrific snow event where we live and it stayed on the ground for about a week. My dad says it was waiting on another snow; I�m thinking it was simply Global Cooling.

I would love to see you all at some of the upcoming spring solo concerts. These are wonderful evenings when, as Mark Lowry says, �God shows up.� Here�s a link to the schedule:
http://janetpaschal.com/schedule.html

Here is the blog offering, along with a picture worth a thousand, well, a couple of hundred words…

We love you!
Janet

TOM THUMB

It was defined by slabs of wood laid across cinderblocks. These makeshift shelves were stocked with cans long emptied of vegetables, but still brandishing a decipherable sticker price from our local A&P. Atop one of the shelves was my bright blue Tom Thumb cash register, filled with Monopoly money and loose change. I first played consumer, selecting various items for purchase, then I became the cashier, a role which made it all worthwhile. I would mentally tally the items then accept cash payment. When I pressed the register�s �Total� button, a bell would ring and the cash drawer spring open. I spent hours upon pleasurable hours playing �store� in the pine trees. I also received more tick bites and reprimands for staying too long outdoors than for any other single trespass.

When mom summoned us for supper, it was fairly predictable. We sat at the four seat, yellow formica table with chrome edges. Someone prayed, then we began passing the food. My mom talked to dad about whatever things were happening at her job and he did the same. My sister and I knew about the cutbacks, expansions, and daily routines of both our parents because most of their communication happened at the dinner table. We also knew about world events, local economies, and the rising cost of heating fuel. My sister talked about her day at school in her inimitable fashion, aiding and abetting where necessary. I think I learned more about home economics from her vivid descriptions at the dinner table than from the class I attended three years later.

I have come to understand how fortunate we were to share that time together every day. I have come to understand that I was gleaning life lessons over fried chicken and homemade biscuits. I did not then realize that I was learning about character, as my dad would relate an event at work where someone had proven untrustworthy or less than completely honest. I had no idea that I was learning about compassion, as my mom spoke of the dire needs of the people with whom she worked. (None of us wondered why she sometimes packed extra lunches.) I did not know that I was learning to embrace friendship from my sister who assumed everyone on the planet was a friend she had yet to meet.

Perhaps this is why that one of the most poignant moments of Jesus� 33 years on earth was, for me, during the Bible�s most familiar meal. The Passover supper was so important that Jesus gave specific instructions regarding the location and told his apostles that he had �eagerly desired� to eat the meal with them. It was here that Jesus shared His upcoming betrayal. Knowing that His time was quickly coming to an end, He gave them a Reader�s Digest version of the things that really matter: the greatest should be the least, the ruler should be the servant, and then the payoff. Because they had been faithful to follow Him, they would eat and drink at His table and occupy thrones in the kingdom. He singled out Simon Peter (a preacher once said that perhaps Jesus took his chin in His hand) when he said, �Satan has desired to sift you as wheat, but I have prayed for you.�

When the Jews celebrate Passover today, they pray the Passover Prayer, which recalls the triumphant story of their people. Read for yourself:

Long ago, at this season, on such a night as this, a people - our people - set out on a journey.
All but crushed by their enslavement, they yet recalled the far-off memory of a happier past and heard the voice of their ancestral God, bidding them summon up the courage to be free.
Boldly, they went forth from Egypt, crossed the Sea, and headed through the desert for the Promised Land.
What they experienced, they remembered, and told their children, and they to theirs.
From generation to generation, the story was retold, and we are here to tell it yet again.
We, too, give thanks for Israel�s liberation; we, too, remember what it means to be a slave.
And so we pray for all who are still fettered, still denied their human rights. Let all God�s children sit a his table, drink the wine of deliverance, and eat the bread of freedom.

Freedom from bondage and freedom from oppression,

Freedom from hunger and freedom from want,

Freedom from hatred and freedom from fear,

Freedom to think and freedom to speak

Freedom to learn and freedom to love

Freedom to hope and freedom to rejoice

Soon in our days, Amen.

So, when you next share a meal with family or friends, remember to lean in and pay close attention. Try to listen between the lines and hear the past, as well as the present. Don�t forget that this is a great opportunity to affect those with whom you break bread. And if your children are like me, fascinated with the outdoors, give them a break.

They may have customers waiting.

Kay and Janet

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12.09.09

Merry Christmas

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It�s Tuesday, 43 degrees in our corner of the world, and I�m watching the afternoon close for the evening. The girls in the backyard (Maggie2 (the magnolia), Mr. and Mrs. Plum, and the Myrtle clan) are regrouping for the winter. They embrace every season, but the girls really miss their showy outfits during the cold months. It�s a girl thing, for sure.

I�m finishing up my Christmas concerts in Mississippi this weekend, Seattle area next, then I�m home until January. These wonderful days of celebration, family, food, and remembrance will too soon be over. I�m going to try especially hard to savor every moment of the upcoming weeks and to continually remind myself that this Christmas is unique. This will be my only chance to enjoy it to the full.

I wish for you all a very, Merry Christmas and the best New Year ever!

We love you!!
Janet

P.S. As always, you may access my concert schedule at: www.janetpaschal.com
*Enroute to a Christmas concert in West Virginia, we passed Andy Griffiith�s �Mt. Pilot,� aka Pilot Mountain and Pilot Knob.

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11.07.09

THE WHEELS OF GOD

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There is an old German proverb which states, �The wheels of God grind slowly, but, oh, so fine.� Through the years I have reminded myself of that phrase when the wicked prospered and justice seemed unjust. I have been comforted by a stubborn belief that God is the final authority on correction, but it was only recently that the flip side of this saying occurred to me.

Perhaps that is what was in play when Joseph trudged through God�s plan for him. Despite my best efforts, I can hardly imagine living this dreamer�s life. Born with familial scoundrels in his lineage, he became the favored son of his father. When he shared with his unpampered brothers two dreams that they would, one day, bow down to him, they took their first opportunity to promptly wrestle the teenager into a pit. (Wrestling ran in the family.) A traveling flea market happened by and they sold him for twenty pieces of silver. Joseph was taken to Egypt and sold to Pharoah�s captain of the guard.

Joseph was favored of the Lord and he became successful in everything he did. Living in his master�s house, he caught the eye of Potiphar�s wife, who was frustrated by his refusal of her advances. She wrongfully accused him and he was thrown into prison. But even there, Joseph�s favor from the Lord quickly became obvious and he was made responsible for his fellow inmates.

Some time later, Joseph was assigned two additional prisoners, the king�s chief cupbearer and chief baker. When they each had dreams which disturbed them, Joseph proceeded to interpret them. Knowing that the cupbearer would be returned to the king�s service, he asked him to mention his situation to the king. Three days later, when his interpretations proved accurate and the cupbearer was restored to his position, he forgot about Joseph.

Two years passed, and King Pharoah had a dream. He inquired of all of the magicians and wise men, but none could interpret it. Suddenly, his cupbearer remembered Joseph and told Pharoah about the young Hebrew in the dungeon. Pharoah immediately called for him.

Joseph meticulously dressed and groomed for a meeting with the king. When Pharoah recounted his dreams, Joseph proceeded to explain their meanings. Recognizing the spirit of God evident in him, Pharoah put Joseph in charge of the entire land of Egypt, second in command only to himself. Joseph was thirty years old.

You know the rest of the story. Seven years of plenty allowed Joseph to fill their storehouses with grain, in preparation for the seven years of famine. People from all over the world came to buy grain from Egypt. Joseph�s brothers did not recognize him when they came to buy, but he knew them. Eventually, he revealed himself to them, adding, �Do not be distressed and angry at yourselves for selling me here, because it was to saves lives that God sent me ahead of you.�

Whew. What I hear him say is that it was all in God�s plan. God knew about the dungeon. God knew about the chains. God knew that the cupbearer would forget and Potiphar�s wife would lie. God, alone, knew that the king would dream.

The wheels of God ground slowly. Joseph was seventeen when he was sold into slavery; thirty when he was appointed to the second highest office in the land. For thirteen years he labored dutifully, woke and slept, prayed and pressed in to the heart of God. All the while, the patient, longsuffering wheels of God�s design were grinding his intractable conviction into a rich covering, a fine veil of favor and blessing, a life flush with faith and rigid with resolve.

Had Joseph expected to be rewarded for his success in the service of Potiphar he would have been sorely disappointed. Had he expected to be exonerated of the false charges brought against him, he would have waited in vain. Had he anticipated that his interpretation of the cupbearer�s dream would free him from the dungeon, he would have, again, found himself disillusioned. Joseph, instead, lived with the great expectation that God was with him, that His purposes were worthwhile, and that he would not be disappointed.

Was he ever right.

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09.25.09

A thousand words…..

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Hey Everybody,
Here are some pictures from NQC… this is the #1 party….. our WALKING THE GOOD ROAD event…. and dinner in Nashville with the former members of Jimmy Swaggart Crusade Team.
[caption id=”attachment_120″ align=”alignleft” width=”300″ caption=”#1 Party at NQC”][/caption]

We love you!!
Janet

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09.22.09

Jimmy Swaggart Band Reunion

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Hey Everybody,

Last night a group of former Jimmy Swaggart band members met for dinner in Nashville. Our objective was two-fold: to hear some great stories and talk about a reunion concert. We told stories for more than four hours, and everyone is on board for a reunion concert next year. We’ll keep you posted.

Love,
Janet

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09.04.09

Laurel and Hardy

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My sister and I think it slightly unjust that our parents do not have a houseful of grandchildren. Their capacity for loving and nurturing far exceeds the needs of the lone, single son of my sister. While I have brought into their lives a puppy who fully believes he is human, there exist distinct limitations when compared to the possibilities of watching a young boy become a man. Perhaps it is because they have only one opportunity to participate in the great event of grandparenting that they do it so well.

When my nephew, Benjamin, was small, my dad bought for him a toy guitar so that he could play along with his own sweet, mellow Gibson. They sat for hours playing and singing songs. Their repertoire was built on gospel standards like, Victory in Jesus, Blessed Assurance, and Bless That Wonderful Name. However, if I know my dad, he would have made certain that some George Jones material was in the mix, as well.

When my nephew failed to crawl right away, dad repeatedly sank to the floor to �show� him how much more advantageous that method of movement. When he played T-Ball, dad never missed a game, never missed a pitch. The first morning Benjamin mounted the steps of a yellow school bus, my dad cried.

Benjamin rode atop dad�s red tractor when it was time to plow the garden; he rode inside the metal wheelbarrow when there were vegetables to transport. Dad rigged a hitch from his riding mower to Benjamin�s red wagon and all summer long they mowed decreasing circles around the property.

My nephew always possessed an amazing capacity for memorization. As a child, he and dad watched favorite episodes of Laurel and Hardy or The Three Stooges and re-enacted them afterwards. They exchanged roles from time to time, with Benjamin providing scripts. For us, these versions were often funnier than Stan and Ollie�s originals.

The morning Benjamin stepped onto the stage of Elon University with a Magna Cum Laude honor sash, my dad, again, cried. We suspected that his emotions were more closely tied to wheelbarrows than academics.

This past March we celebrated Benjamin�s 28th birthday at a local restaurant. He received cards from all of us and, as usual, my parents added a personal sentiment to theirs. Dad�s spelling has never been stellar, nor his grammar up to par, but he, almost 77 years old, wrote,

�Ben-Ben, I wish we could play Laurel and Hardy again and I
will be the little one and you can be the big one. I enjoyed playing
when you were little. I love you very, very much and God bless you
all through your life.�

Benjamin never had to do anything to earn my dad�s love; it just was. It never depended on his achievements or abilities, or whether it was reciprocated. He could not have stepped out of the sphere of my dad�s affection if he had tried. That�s the beauty of love - it is determined not by the one who receives it, but by the one who gives it.

So the next time you are driving in the country, and you happen to see a child in the wake of a riding lawn mower or balanced in a wheelbarrow full of freshly picked corn, be sure to take a good look. You will be witnessing some of the best moments of the child�s life - and the grandparent�s, too.

Janet

[caption id=”attachment_111″ align=”alignnone” width=”430″ caption=”ParPar and Benjamin”][/caption]

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08.27.09

NQC Walk For The Cure

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Hey Everybody,

For those of you who will be attending National Quartet Convention this year, we wanted to let you know about a very exciting event taking place on Saturday, the 19th. NQC, JOY FM, and I are hosting a cancer walk benefiting breast cancer research. We’ll meet at the entrance to Freedom Hall at 8am Saturday morning and we’ll all ‘Walk The Good Road’ for a cure. There is a $10 registration fee, and the first 300 registrants will receive a free commemorative t-shirt.

This is a first. You don’t want to miss it. We don’t want to miss you. Let’s go out and make a difference!!!

I’ll see you there….
Janet

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07.02.09

Happy 4th of July !!!

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Hey Everybody,

It’s July 2nd - and everyone seems to be stocking up on charcoal, hot dogs and sparklers. It’s time to celebrate our Red, White, and Blue; time to whisper a word of gratitude for freedom past, a prayer for freedom future.

I’ve been blessed to have celebrated the 4th already this year, and we’re still 2 days out. I joined First Baptist Dallas for USA Today - a huge event complete with incredible choir, orchestra, pomp, circumstance, and flags - always the flags. Tomorrow I’ll join Ivan Parker for our second Independence Day celebration in beautiful Staunton, Virginia at Gypsy Hill Park.� How blessed can one person be?

Doran Bugg, Minister of Music FIRST BAPTIST DALLAS

I hope that each of you will enjoy this incredible weekend. I hope that you will be with those you love. I hope that your backyard chef is up to the task, and I hope your fireworks are loud and colorful. I hope that you break into song, “God Bless America” at the least likely moment, and I hope that God is listening - and does.

We love you…..

Janet

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06.18.09

If I Had My Life To Live Over

Posted in

It’s Tuesday night and I’ve just come from my monthly dinner with Kay and our cousins. We spent three and a half hours in a Mexican restaurant that was finished with us before we were finished with them.  I don’t know that the walls in that establishment have ever had laughter as hearty or consistent.

There are rumblings of a Carolina thunderstorm, and there are rumblings of other, more protracted storms, as well. Two friends from my hometown have learned that their breast cancer has returned with a vengeance. One friend, about my age, is terminal. While I have been planting spring flowers and hosing down lawn furniture, she has been making other, more permanent decisions about flowers and furniture.

Some would say she is fortunate, and, in a way, I guess that is true. She will be able to communicate sentiments and regulate the transfer of her possessions. Knowing her, she will leave no stone unturned. What she will not do is take care of her parents, have grandchildren, or grow old.

Someone recently sent an email blast with a quote from Erma Bombeck shortly after she was diagnosed with terminal cancer. Here is a portion of what she said:

“IF I HAD MY LIFE TO LIVE OVER….

I would have talked less and listened more.

I would have burned the pink candle sculpted like a rose before it melted in storage.

I would have invited friends over to dinner even if the carpet was stained or the sofa faded.

I would have eaten the popcorn in the ‘good’ living room and worried much less about the dirt when someone wanted to light a fire in the fireplace.

I would have taken the time to listen to my grandfather ramble about his youth.

I would never have insisted the car windows be rolled up on a summer day because my hair had just been teased and sprayed.

I would have sat on the lawn with my grass stains.

I would never have bought anything just because it was practical, wouldn’t show soil or was guaranteed to last a lifetime.

But mostly, given another shot at life, I would seize every minute, look at it and really see it…live it and never give it back.”

So, forgive me if I am a little pensive tonight. I am reconciling the loss of another little fraction of the world as I know it. It weighs on me, as it does everyone who knows her. But we will get through it. It is likely that we will share many more monthly dinners. It is probable that we will experience the rage of countless more summer thunderstorms. It is certain that we will see her again.

Blessings,
Janet

Permalink 1 Comment

04.07.09

Happy Easter

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Hey Everybody,

It’s the Tuesday before Easter. Somehow I am thinking that I should go to the mall and buy a new dress and shoes (you saw that coming, didn’t you?) As a child, my mom always bought my sister and me new outfits complete with pastel, frilly dress, white patent shoes, white frilly socks and hat with rubber band string. We usually gathered in the front yard for a picture, although if my mom was taking it she usually captured more sky than face.

I always wondered why we dressed up in new clothes? That was a very special event for us. The beginning of the school year was really the only other time that we intentionally bought new clothes.

Was it because we were remembering His sacrifice? Was it because we were celebrating His life? Was it because Easter still represented the crux of what we believe and the star onto which we have hooked our lives?

To be honest, I guess it was all of those things. We were remembering  - His submissive response in the Garden of Gethsemane. We were celebrating - because He really did what He said He would do: come back bearing the keys to death. We were throwing a party - because anytime someone displaces a stone and emerges in grave clothes, there MUST be a party. I’m just glad I had the shoes for it.

We’ve just finished two days, three shows in Ft. Worth, Texas. Ironically, I’m going back to Irving for an Easter sunrise service. It will be my first in a lot of years and I’m really looking forward to it. I’m leaving my white shoes and hat at home.

We love you all. Happy Easter!!!

Love,
Janet
PS… All 12 soundtracks from the new project, TREASURE, are finally here. You may order from the Online Store at www.janetpaschal.com      Sorry for the delay!

PPS… Thanks for the photo, Sherrie Mac!!

Permalink 3 Comments

03.24.09

New Soundtracks - Update

Posted in

Hey Everybody,

Guess what came in the mail today? The first soundtracks from the new project, TREASURE. We are releasing all 12 songs on CD, and we are putting 4 songs on each CD (there are no demo vocals so you’ll have to buy the TREASURE CD:)

Today we received 2 of the 3 CDs. They should be added to the online store this week! Thanks for your patience…

Janet

Permalink 1 Comment

03.17.09

Tracks

Posted in

Hey Everybody,

Thanks for asking about the soundtracks from the new project. They are due at the end of this week, but I will update this blog when they are literally in hand. Thanks for your patience!

Love,

Janet

Permalink Comments

02.11.09

Happy February !

Posted in

Hey Everybody,

It’s February - and my head is still reeling from how quickly we’ve come through Thanksgiving, Christmas and January. Whew! I wish someone could slow it down….

Last weekend was the first series of concerts with the new Gaither Vocal Band. We were in Huntsville, Dothan, and Charleston. I knew the concerts would be good, but I did not know they would be THAT good!!! They were amazing - and that’s no exaggeration. Here are some pictures, as they are still worth a thousand words…

We’re heading to Florida for 3 days this week. Hope to see some of you there.

Happy February!!
Janet

Permalink 1 Comment

01.26.09

Ponce de Leon

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Hey Everybody,

It’s Monday, January 26th and I’m still waiting for a big snowstorm. We had a teaser, but nothing that we could scoop into a pan and turn into snowcream. Oh well, we’ve still a couple of months to hope…

We resume the tour this week in Alabama and South Carolina, but for most of February we will be in Florida. How smart is that? Ponce de Leon didn’t find the fountain of youth, but he didn’t totally strike out, either. We’ll be hearing the new Vocal Band and I know it’s going to be incredible.

Some of you wrote and asked if I would be at Family Fest in May and, yes, I’ll be there. Thanks for asking.

We love you. Hope to see you sometime soon.
Janet

Permalink 6 Comments

01.05.09

Happy 2009!!!

Posted in

Hey Everybody,

It’s January 2009 and I still can’t believe it. It seems that only a few months ago we were all wondering if we should buy generators for the millennium switch. My parents were right - the older you get the faster the time seems to go…

We’ve just returned from a couple of great concerts. We were in Camp Hill, PA for New Year’s Eve and Wintrhop Harbor, IL this past Sunday. Both were great events with warm, sweet  people. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again… the best thing about what I do is being able to meet the incredible people I come in contact with. I feel so blessed.

We’ve some time off before the tour resumes this month. I’m looking forward to some of the things I love: shopping, cooking, and spending days with the people I love. Even the holidays aren’t better than that.

I pray for you all a prosperous, joyful New Year, and I pray that you will be able to squeeze every ounce of good out of every minute of every day. Remember, you only get one chance to live each day. Make it count!

We love you!

Janet

Permalink 7 Comments

12.03.08

When Christmas Comes To Toledo

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Hey Everybody,

It’s early December - that wonderful stretch between Thanksgiving and Christmas when Santa is coming out of the closet - er, attic - and shopping centers are rife with bargains and kiosks and free gift wrapping. I love it. Everything about it. It could last a year, and I’d still love it.

We’re starting the Christmas tour in Toledo tomorrow. There are so many artists on the program that there’s no way the audiences will be bored. This will diverse, fun, warm, and I still can’t believe I get paid to participate. I’m glad, though, because I haven’t yet started Christmas shopping.

The West Coast Tour was just wonderful. The new book and CD were available for the first time and I signed a lot of them. Here’s a picture from the last night in Glendale, AZ:

We hope to see you. We love you!!
Janet

Permalink 4 Comments

11.12.08

Ah, Duke, We Hardly Knew Ye

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Hey Everybody,

It’s Wednesday - the day before we head west for two weeks. Before I start packing I wanted to share some good news with you.

I went to Duke Medical Center yesterday for my six month checkup. As usual, I stood in line for a while waiting to check in at the cancer clinic (John and I have spent a considerable amount of our lives in that line:) A 7-year-old boy and his mom were in front of me, and I asked if he was glad to be out of school? His mom commented that it wasn’t the best place to spend a day off. I knew exactly what she meant.

Being in that room conjures up so many memories - like the first time John and I went to Duke. It was so odd - looking for and following the route to oncology. I’d never even SEEN an oncology area before we showed up for my first appointment. It felt as though I was dreaming the entire initial visit. I recall only a few of the details of that day.

I watched the ladies and gentlemen who lined up for check-in, and I remembered what a long road it was on the other side of that reception desk. The healing process is one that you are grateful for, to be sure, but it is also one that you are happy to abandon forever!

That said, after the checkup, test, counts, the doctor said that everything looked great. Despite all the times in my life when someone speaks that adverb to me, it never rings as sweet as when they say it in oncology. The level of relief almost makes the anxiety worth it. Almost.

By the way, here’s a picture of my buddies, Sheri and Charlotte, from NQC. Aren’t they just beautiful??

We love you -
Janet

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11.07.08

California or Bust !

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Hey Everybody,

It’s Friday, and we’re gearing up for our west coast trip. We’ll be gone for two weeks, returning just in time for Thanksgiving.

North Carolina is just breathtaking this time of year. The reds, yellows and golds are as pretty as I ever remember. One more reason that I love living here - because God shows off every season!

Speaking of gold… the new CD, Treasure , and book, Treasures of the Snow  are now available. The early reviews are even better than I hoped for.

Here’s a picture from the spring tour. Since all of us got the ‘white’ memo that evening, we considered starting a group….

Permalink 1 Comment

10.05.08

Will There Be Catfish in Heaven?

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Hey Everybody,

I’m at the airport in Jackson, MS waiting for my flight home. We were in Laurel yesterday for a women’s conference with Trudy Cathy White (Truett’s daughter) at First Baptist. I stayed over for a concert at the church this morning.

I have to say that those are some of the most gracious and generous ladies and gentlemen I’ve ever met. The music minister and his wife made sure I met my catfish quota; in fact, I’ve eaten it 4 times in the last 3 days and I savored every bite. If I lived in Mississippi I’d weigh 250 pounds and it would all have swum at one time.

Trudy brought all of the attendees a stuffed cow and a GET ONE FREE Chick-Fil-A card. (Now THAT is a great idea!) It’s not catfish but it’s delicious - especially when followed by a kiddie cone of Ice Dream (their name for vanilla). Makes you want to find a flag and hum a verse of ‘God Bless America!’

We’re heading to Columbus, GA for the concert/tribute to Jake Hess on Thursday. It’s always great to hear the stories he left behind. What a talent; what a giver; what a gentle man.

Many of you have asked about my sister, Kay (thank you!) She is still doing wonderfully. The doctor still wants to make her a poster child.

We’re nearing the release of the new book and CD - more about those as we get closer to it.

Have a great week. We love you!!!

Janet

PS  Go Panthers!!

Permalink 3 Comments

07.18.08

More Studio

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Hey Everybody,

More fun things from the studio. We went in for background vocals last week - my favorite part of the process. Here’s a picture of the incredible singers. Maybe one day I’ll just hire them to perform a concert just for me - in the studio - complete with stories and songs and reminiscences. Hey, maybe we’ll video tape it. Then we’ll air it on national television and sell one mill-i-on copies. Oh, wait…. that’s already been done.

Never mind.

(Pictured: Lee Ann, Angie, Dionne, Moi, Ty, Chris, Reba and Wayne.   Not Pictured: Kay Loftis, Kevin Ward, Brad Pitt, Pat Conroy, Michelle Pfeiffer, Steven Spielberg, John McCain, Batman, Donald Trump, and Barbara Walters.)

I hope your summer is fun, safe and memorable. Let us hear from you.

Love,

Janet

Permalink 10 Comments

06.17.08

Back In The Studio…..

Posted in

Hey Everybody,

I’m in Nashville - in the studio - working on a new project. This process, perhaps more than any other, defines the perfect mixture of work and pleasure. While the days are emotionally draining, I’d buy a ticket to watch as these gifted musicians output complex chords and tempos as effortlessly as I transfer clothes from washer to dryer. It’s as though they were born to do what they do. And I was born to sit and watch. Here they are L to R: Dave Cleveland, Wayne Haun, Jason Webb, Mark Hill, and Steve Brewster.

The new project is a collection of some of my most requested older songs - some from more than twenty years ago. It’s fun to bring them back to the table. We’ll have tracks for all of them, too.

Wayne Haun is producing (did I need to say that?). We’re keeping the thick, rich production on the the ballads, and the foot-stomping beats on the uptempos. We’re staying true to the original arrangements with some slight updating (we eliminated the disco sounds:)

The project is called TREASURES and it will release in conjunction with the new book titled TREASURES OF THE SNOW. They’ll be available this fall.

Stay tuned. We’ll keep you in the loop.

Love,

Janet

Permalink 7 Comments

06.05.08

Heroes

Posted in

Hey Everybody,

Here are some of my heroes - people who are walking for the cure.

Stephony and company

Kerri

Lori from Tulsa - A breast cancer survivor

Enjoy!

Janet

Permalink 4 Comments

05.13.08

Aw shucks, Duke !

Posted in

Hey Everybody,

It’s Tuesday evening. I’ve had a pretty wonderful day and wanted to tell you about it.

I went to Duke Medical Center for extensive tests beginning at 9 this morning. I was stuck, prodded, registered and redirected more times than I care to recall. This was a big day - a close encounter with cancer’s favorite hiding places. At the end of the day, the oncologist told me that my tests, percentages, counts, etc. were - and I quote - PERFECT!

I never knew hunting for cancer could be so much fun.

I know that a lot of you were praying - you told me so this past weekend. More than any other gift, that is the one I cherish most of all. So, how do I say ‘Thank you’ so that it doesn’t sound trivial or less than sincere? I don’t know - maybe you have some ideas. All I know is that I wish each of you could feel the gratitude in my heart for you all. I am so blessed.

As I was walking down one of the many corridors in Duke’s Oncology Center this afternoon, I started crying - not out of sadness, but out of a deep sense of gratitude, and because I knew the tests could have (and have) had opposite results. I think if I had one wish, it would be that there would be no cancer in our world.

I appreciate you. I love you.

Blessings,
Janet

Permalink 15 Comments

03.16.08

Sunday in Oslo

Posted in

Good morning, Everybody,

It’s a beautiful morning in Oslo - the view from my window looks like a painted landscape - a clear blue sky, colorful buildings, and mountain peaks lending depth to the erratic horizon. And I think everyone agrees that they saved the best concert for last.

The ladies and gentlemen of Oslo sang - how they sang - in Norwejian - ‘Something About That Name’, ‘The King Is Coming’, ‘He Touched Me’, and the grand finale’, ‘Because He Lives.’ Nothing is as beautiful as watching an overseas group sing a familiar song in their language with hands raised as far as the top tier of the venue. It was a moment. It was an evening to be remembered. It was something to return to on those nights that seem to land on deaf ears. It couldn’t have been more special - or poignant - or fitting. What a treat to be in the room.

We’re on the way home tomorrow. We’ll be in touch then.

Blessings,
Janet

Permalink 8 Comments

03.15.08

Oslo

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Hey Everybody,

We are in Oslo today - a beautiful city with mountains and trees and warm, friendly people. The concert is almost sold out - 7500 - and the people are very excited. That makes us very excited. Solveig Henderson (who has been on some of the cruises) is here tonight and that’s a treat for us. She’s a lovely girl from here and a wonderful singer/songwriter as well as a precious person.

Last night the people in Rotterdam were just incredible. They sang freely - and they knew the songs! It was so moving to see them lift their hands and sing ‘Because He Lives…’ God has people in every corner of the world….

We’ll rest up tomorrow and head home on Monday. Everyone is planning their first meal back - Mexican, McDonald’s, Steak ‘n Shake, Wendy’s. Culinary experts we ain’t…..

Have a great weekend. Hope to see you soon.

Love,
Janet

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03.13.08

UKKKK

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Hey Everybody,

It’s Thursday morning and we’re on a bus from Germany to Amsterdam.

The concert last night was amazing. The seating was first-come, first serve and they began lining up about six hours before the concert started. When the doors opened, it was like the California gold rush - we kept looking at each other trying to decide who they’d come to see! They were warm, enthusiastic, and Mr. G put together a four hour concert that felt like half that time. They didn’t want us to quit and we didn’t want to, either. Needless to say, it would be great to return.

The second-best thing was the food - we had incredible steaks, potatoes, vegetables, desserts, etc. the night before. Everyone has put their diet on a back burner for this 12 days. We do it for the hosts, you understand. It’s all sacrificial on our part:)

Our first city was Belfast. Several of us took a car to a lovely old hotel at the coast the night before the concert. We had their signature fish and chips, but, mainly, we sat and talked and laughed. That’s still the best part. Oh yeah, the concert was fun, too…

In Glasgow the people were great, as well. We were without video screens the first two nights so that made us have to adjust a little bit - but it’s good to have to think about the details occasionally - keeps you on your toes.

We’re taking a tour of Amsterdam and Anne Frank’s house today on the way to Rotterdam. This will be interesting…. Such a great, sad story.

We’re thinking of you. Thanks for your prayers!

Love,
Janet

Permalink 3 Comments

Update on Nathaniel Luebke

Posted in

This is an update from Nathaniel’s Godfather who has so graciously kept us in the loop in the progress of this precious little boy. 

Dear Friend,

We got the greatest news possible about Nathaniel Luebke. He has 100% of his sister’s cells which means he is cured. We still have to wait until September to be positive, but rarely does this kind of report with this high rating reverse itself.

Please go to the link and read the posting by Michelle. It make more sense than Dad and I do.

He and I sat and cried on the phone for 20 minutes as soon as the hospital called. We blubbered like little babies thinking of all the prayers and about all the people like you that have gone the extra mile to help defeat Satan and heal my Godson.

www.caringbridge.org/visit/nathanielluebke

Thank you for being a great friend and help us celebrate by praising our precious Lord and Savior !!

Love you both
God Bless
Don

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01.19.08

It’s Snowing!

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Hey Everybody,

I’m watching huge, slow snowflakes land on the tree limbs behind my house, and I’m praying that the temperature will drop sufficiently to make the snow stay for a while. I’ve milk, sugar, and vanilla, so I’m set for food if the snow continues to accumulate. It’s one of life’s great pleasures.

Okay, here’s an update…. Kay is completely finished with her cancer treatments and she is doing WONDERFULLY. We were amazed at her stamina throughout the radiation treatments (not to mention the chemotherapy) and her smile never waned. What a trooper. She’s more beautiful than ever!

My mom was sick at Christmas but she is doing great, too. Our lives were so busy that Christmas almost slipped by unnoticed - and that’s quite a feat for me! We’re just thankful that the tough events have ended well.

I’m gearing up to join the Homecoming artists next week for the first weekend of the spring tour. What fun that will be - sharing a stage with friends. I still can’t believe I get paid for that.

We’ll look for you - we love you - stay in touch!

Love,
Janet

Permalink 10 Comments

12.10.07

Nashville, TN - Race For The Cure

Posted in

Multiple Award winner and Vine recording artist Janet Paschal recently
performed at the Nashville Survivors’ Celebration Dinner, a kick-off
event for the annual Race For The Cure Read the rest of this entry »

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12.05.07

Jeffrey A Timm

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Jeff was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s diffuse large B-cell lymphoma on Sept 14th 2007 at the age of 33. Everyday since the diagnosis has been a journey in coping with cancer.

Please, click on this link for more info on Jeffrey: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/jefftimm

Permalink 1 Comment

11.21.07

Thanksgiving Eve

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Hey Everybody,

It’s Wednesday evening and we, like you, are anticipating a wonderful Thanksgiving with great food, dear friends, and precious family. We are so blessed.
I wanted to share a couple of pictures from the concerts this past weekend.

Read the rest of this entry »

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11.12.07

Green Beans?

Posted in

Hey Everybody,

It’s Monday evening and I’ve just received a picture from the group who sponsored my concert in wild and woolly West Virginia last Friday. They call themselves the GREEN BEANS

and they are a great group with almost as much color as the numerous trees in their gorgeous state. What fun we had! Read the rest of this entry »

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11.06.07

The Sacred Treatment

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Hey Everybody,

It’s Tuesday night. I’ve just cleared my desk of several day’s work, finished my next article for Homecoming Magazine, and caught up on my email. For the first time in a few days I can take a deep breath. Where does the time go?

Kay begins radiation on Monday the 12th, Veteran’s Day. She is feeling great and so thankful that she’ll not have chemotherapy in her near future. She says that any day without chemo is a good day.

I went to her final treatment almost three weeks ago. Read the rest of this entry »

Permalink 7 Comments

10.23.07

Cancer Awareness Month

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Hey Everybody,

Just wanted to say a big THANK YOU to those of you who are walking/running/participating in cancer events this month Read the rest of this entry »

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10.22.07

Kay’s Final Chemo Day

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Hey Everybody,

I’m sitting in the Ronald Reagan airport watching a perpetual parade of airline passengers (try typing THAT three times fast!) They are balancing babies, buggies, briefcases and blutooth - while sipping a Pumpkin Spice grande with extra whip. Oops! That last one was me - sorry! Read the rest of this entry »

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09.22.07

Saturday in Indiana

Posted in

Hey Everybody,

I’m in the plane from Des Moines to Ft. Wayne, looking at the rich, tidy farmland of Iowa and Indiana. Makes me want to eat a plate of vegetables when we land. Read the rest of this entry »

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09.10.07

Nathaniel Luebke

Posted in

This precious little boy is ‘Diagnosed with AutoImmune Hepatitis Associated Aplastic Anemia’. Please visit his blog site here:

http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/nathanielluebke

Thank you all so much!

Permalink 3 Comments

09.07.07

Update on Kay

Posted in

Hey Everybody,

It’s Friday night and since my last post, we’ve enjoyed several concerts as well as the Gaither Alaska cruise. My sister, Kay, has also marked off one of four chemo treatments and she’s readying for number two on Monday. I’ll get to go with her to this one.

She’s lost her hair but not her sense of humor. She’s asking everyone to call her ‘Vidalia’ since that what she’s reminded of when she looks in the mirror. The interesting thing is that her smile is so bright that most probably won’t even notice her hair - or lack of it. Read the rest of this entry »

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08.14.07

Here Come the Horses

Posted in

Hey Everybody,

Kay saw her oncologist today and they are suggesting a 12-week regimen of chemotherapy. The good news is that they do not want to use Adriamycin (the Red Devil), but Taxotere, a kinder, gentler med. While disappointing, I know that this is very do-able, and I assured her that she’d be the best patient he’d ever had. She may begin on Monday.

Thank you for your inquiries, and thank you for your continued prayers. This, too, shall pass.

We love you!
Janet

Permalink 8 Comments

08.10.07

Mighty Meds

Posted in

Hey Everybody,

It’s Friday morning and John and I are gearing up for another busy day. Before we get started I wanted to update you on the latest news from Kay. (Thank you for all of your inquiries!)

We still do not know what her treatment regimen will be, although they have assured us that she will have radiation. The good news is that they’ve made unbelievable strides in the march against this disease since I was diagnosed two years ago. Here’s the latest… Read the rest of this entry »

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07.25.07

Of Men and Horses

Posted in

Hey Everybody,

It’s Wednesday and I’m enjoying a lovely North Carolina afternoon on the porch. Max is dozing and John is working on a new website. There’s always something to do…

So many of you have written and asked about Kay and I’m sorry that I still don’t have a lot to tell you. She will see her oncologist for the first time on August 1st. At that point, we’ll know their recommendations for the next phase of treatments. The tests confirmed that her margins and lymph nodes were completely clean - something we are so grateful for. She remains irrepressible - taking everything in stride as if she’s fighting the common cold. No one who knows her is surprised.

Kay said that she felt the Lord had dropped into her spirit the verse from Jeremiah, in effect, ‘If the footmen have wearied you, how will you run with the horses?’ It seems each little battle prepares us for the next big one, and the day to day challenges equip us for the life-changing events that we neither want or anticipate. In other words, the footmen ready us for the horses.

So… if you’re running with footmen, absorb all of the lessons and be enheartened by the knowledge that you are becoming stronger in every small thing. Be obedient and seek to do what is right. You never know when those horses are gonna show up!

We love you….

Janet

Permalink 6 Comments

07.07.07

Thank you….

Posted in

Just wanted to say a huge Thank You for all of your kind comments. On Thursday we’ll get the compete pathology results and probably a recommendation for Kay’s treatment regimen. Needless to say that will be a big day; we’re walking across water one step at a time.

I’ll be in touch….

Love,
Janet

Permalink 7 Comments

07.03.07

Post Surgery

Posted in

Hey Everybody,

It’s Tuesday morning, and Kay’s surgery was highly successful. The surgeon said, “Best case scenario.” While they won’t know for certain until the pathology reports are back, he thinks her margins and nodes are completely clear. There were ten of us in the conference room and the relief was almost palpable.

I kept thinking of the difference in the way I felt walking INTO the building versus OUT OF the building. When we arrived and spoke with the waiting room nurse, visited with Kay after he prep, went to the cafeteria for a snack, our feelings were on hold. Afterwards, I actually saw the landscaping around the hospital entrance and the faces of the people whom I passed in the hall. My heart was hopeful and, most of all, grateful.

Kay is doing wonderfully. While in recovery, coming in and out of cognizance, she kept telling the nurses how great they were. That’s Kay - through and through.

More as we get the information.

We love you - and we’re so grateful for your prayers.

Love,
Janet

Permalink 7 Comments

07.02.07

Surgery Tomorrow

Posted in

Hey Everybody,

It’s Sunday, Jeffrey and I are in the Washington National / Ronald Reagan airport waiting for our flight home. By the way, did I tell you about Jeffrey? He’s traveling with me, running sound, and doing a great job. He’s a little young guy - I tell him he’s like the little brother I never had, he says I’m the big sister he never wanted…..

Kay’s surgery is tomorrow - Monday - and she’s ready to get it over with. At that point, we’ll know a lot more than we now do. They have not yet determined the stage of her cancer, whether she overexpresses the HER2 gene or their treatment recommendations. We are still praying that she’ll be able to avoid chemotherapy. As soon as we know anything more, I’ll pass it along.

Many of you have asked for her contact information (and we are SO grateful for your thoughtfulness.) The best way to contact her is via our office address:
Kay Loftis P.O. Box 2609 Reidsville, NC 27323-2609.

Last night I sang for the summer opening ceremonies of the Alton Bay Christian Center retreat in Alton Bay, New Hampshire. It is situated on the largest lake in the state and surrounded by gorgeous trees and hills and quaint towns. The tabernacle was like the ones I recall from childhood. I kept looking at the faded boards and old fashioned windows, knowing that a lot of lives had been different because they’d ventured to this gathering through the years; in fact, I’m sure that generations of families are affected by the gospel which has gone forth from that place. If only those walls could talk…

We love you - we’ll be in touch.

Love,
Janet

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06.19.07

Kay and Clayton

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Just a quick update regarding Kay. She will see the surgeon this Friday and we’ll learn more about her pathology, etc. We are praying fervently that she will be able to bypass any chemotherapy - thank you for helping us pray to this end. I’ll keep you all in the loop. THANK YOU in advance for your prayers and thoughtfulness.

Also, I want to let you know about a special concert planned for this Friday, June 22nd in Clayton, North Carolina. Ivan Parker and I will be sharing a concert at the lovely Clayton Center downtown. We always have a great time working together, and this time we’ve a surprise or two up our sleeves….  Don’t miss it!

For tickets call:  919-550-4143 or 919-553-1737  or visit www.theclaytoncenter.com

We’ll look for you!

Janet

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06.18.07

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Thanks for your kind comments. Thank you!
Janet

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06.12.07

SOUNDS LIKE SUNDAY Review

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Here’s a link to the review from A Very Fine Line. Enjoy!

URL to article:
http://averyfineline.com/2007/05/29/janet-paschal-sounds-like-sunday/

Article taken from averyfineline - http://averyfineline.com

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06.09.07

And then there’s Kay….

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Hey Everybody,

It’s a nice Saturday morning in North Carolina. I’ve a much-anticipated weekend off so I wanted to shoot you a note before my Saturday gets swallowed up by ‘things.’

John sent you a note saying that all the new projects are available - the hymns project, SOUNDS LIKE SUNDAY, the new Gaither DVD and CD release, BEST OF JANET, and the new Springhill release, GREATEST HITS. Have I really been around that long? I guess after 30 years you should have at least one ‘best’ or ‘hit’ under your belt…

I’m copying a story from my dear sister, Kay. She’s the one who never meets a stranger, the one who has, for years, worked in my office, raised a wonderful son, and served as a pastor’s wife - all at the same time. We just found out yesterday that she, too, has breast cancer. They think they found it very early and they won’t know what treatments it will entail until after the surgery. I’ll keep you all updated. I know that she covets your prayers.

When we first started working on the project, SOUNDS LIKE SUNDAY, the owners of the record label designated a portion of the proceeds to go to the Susan G. Komen Foundation for Breast Cancer Research (see the back of the CD). Now that my beloved sister has been diagnosed, I am even more grateful to them for helping to chip away at this dreadful disease.

So, sit back, and get a life perspective from Kay. She’d love to think she made you laugh.

Love,
Janet

Those Were The Days…. by Kay Loftis

I awoke very early one day last week, couldn’t sleep, and the word ‘reflect’ was rolling over and over in my mind. I got up, went to my computer, and began thinking at 3:48 in the morning when all was still. I pulled out my old Webster’s Dictionary and looked up the word, ‘reflect’, and it’s description was “to look back.” I decided to do just that.

Growing up, there was only my sister and I. We were very close and every Christmas, Santa would bring us great toys such as an operational ‘Jack in the Box’, various Barbie dolls (including but not limited to clothes and accessories), a Baby Boo doll that really cried, Tinker Toys, etc. You know, real fun stuff. We had homemade play houses and one bicycle to share between us. I have a few of my old toys today but my little sister doesn’t have much left. You see, my Mother had a lot of nephews and nieces who played rough. They usually destroyed their toys the day after Christmas! We loved those cousins though and when they would come to visit us, usually every weekend, I would hide my toys and give them my sister’s toys to tear up. I would say, “Here, Sissy wants you to play with this Baby Boo doll today.” Ah, those were the days!

Being the oldest, I was the first to reach driving age. My Dad had a 1961 Ford with a column shift, 4 barrel carburetor, and a V-8 engine. Today we do not know what a car is anymore. That was a real automobile. When we went on vacation, my sister and I could ride in style. One of us could sleep on the back seat, the other in the back window. When the sun got hot, you would just switch places and keep on riding. It was in that car that I had to get my driver’s license. My sister on the other hand, never had a problem with driving. She was driving when she was 5 years old.

I tried several times and still could not get my driver’s license. At one point the instructor asked me to perform a 3-point road turn. I had a difficult time operating the clutch and gas pedal simultaneously, while trying to get a smooth ride all at the same time. I made the first turn fine, but on the second turn, I got the car in the ditch and could not get it out. The instructor had to change places with me and get the car out of the ditch. During the drive back to the motor vehicle office, the instructor was very quiet. When we arrived I noticed his pale, white expression, and wondered if, perhaps, he was getting that virus that was going around? I asked him, “Did I get my license this time?” He said, “No, you’ll have to try again.” When I reached my limit, realizing I would never get a driver’s license in my dad’s 1961 Ford with a column shift, a friend from church loaned me her small car with an automatic transmission. I took the test and finally passed.

I remember the movie, “The Wizard of Oz” coming on television only one time a year and it was always on Sunday night. My sister and I wanted to stay home from church and see it, but Mom and Dad always made us go to church and, of course, that would be the night that the service would go on and on and on. We would usually see just the last few minutes of it. My sister was a much better church goer than me. Mom and Dad worked everyday and we didn’t attend church on Wednesday nights. My sister would ride to church with my Grandfather (who lived 2 doors down from us) on Wednesday nights. I really wanted to go but the show, “Lost in Space” was on tv that night and I had to stay home and watch it for my sister. Lesson to young people - Remember if you stay home on Wednesday nights and watch tv, you will be working the product table for your sister one day while she is on stage singing.

In the summertime, Mom always worked and we would stay at home with a sitter until we got old enough to stay by ourselves. In the summertime, we would make tents by placing a homemade quilt over chair backs and secure them with heavy books. We’d make pimento cheese sandwiches, position ourselves under the tent, and watch “I Love Lucy” on the portable 19” black and white tv my dad had won in a car dealership drawing. Other days we’d just sit on the front porch drinking our Mom’s homemade iced tea (she made the best!) and dream about our futures. Those were the days!

Mama usually got home from work about 30 minutes after we got home from school. Many time she’d go straight to her bedroom, kneel by her bed and pray. She would ask if we wanted to pray with her and, of course, when someone asks you, you always say yes. I remember Mama prayed a long time. My sister would be praying and I would be looking around, looking out the window, thinking I would love to be in our playhouse, when, the first thing you know, I would fall asleep. I used to think, ‘Sissy and I are going to start playing today before Mama comes home so we won’t have to pray with her.’ Ah, those were the days.

We grew up and followed the Lord’s direction for our lives, probably because of those days of prayer, as well as church meetings, revival meetings and our wonderful family life. However, I still am not a great driver. Just 2 weeks ago, I was driving down the road, a blue light approaches, stops me and an officer walks up to my car. I asked him what was I doing wrong? He said he’d clocked me at 69 in a 55 zone. I told him I was going to a birthday party, which made no difference to him. I asked him for a warning and he said he would think about it. When he goes returned to my car he was carrying a ticket. That was my first ticket ever! He had no mercy on me either. A friend told me about traffic school so the following week I signed on. We were divided into 3 groups and given the various topics of road hazards and solutions for discussion and class insight. We had problems with too much light, sunlight, night driving, when someone had their bright headlights shining in your rearview mirror. Our spokesperson said you can put bright, blue lights on your vehicle and it helps you to see clearer in the nighttime. I told the class we had already seen the blue light clearly enough.

Maybe someday, I will say of this experience in life, too, those were the days!

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05.23.07

SOUNDS LIKE SUNDAY available this weekend…

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Hey Everybody,

Thank you for your kind comments re: the Podcast. Those earphone hairdos are a little scary though, huh??

Since you’re asking, we’ll have the new Hymns project, SOUNDS LIKE SUNDAY, in Gatlinburg this weekend. The record label and the distributor have worked very diligently to make this happen and we are so excited. We can’t wait to begin getting feedback on it.

More from Gatlinburg this weekend.

Love,
Janet

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05.20.07

Posted in

Thanks for your positive feedback on the Podcasts. You all are still THE BEST!

Janet

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05.17.07

Podcast Link - We mean it this time!

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Hey Everybody,

Here’s the working link to the podcast:

http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=254921359

Let us know if you’re able to access it!!!

Non-technical Janet

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04.22.07

Catching Up

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Hey Everybody,

It’s early Sunday morning and I’m on a plane heading east. The last few days have had moments of wonder and dread - extremes that parallelled each other. I find myself thinking of Ecclesiastes….

Last weekend I shared ‘Friends Day’ with a wonderfully warm congregation in Bucyrus, Ohio. This is my third year to share their annual event. They were, as always, gracious and hospitable, and the staff just the best - and I always say the congregation reflects the pastor. As always, at the end of the weekend they presented to me a gift - this year it was a Vera Bradley bag. (Men, you may just skip to the next paragraph.) It is my first. I wonder if they make shoes….

I spent Monday shopping (well, I’m touring again and I must have some clothes and my dad was keeping Max and John was out of town and I had the day free) and John called to tell me about the Virginia Tech event. I couldn’t even wrap my mind around that for a while. I felt a heaviness I couldn’t shake. I couldn’t imagine the depth of loss and grief forced upon the families. I couldn’t imagine the void that has found permanency in their hearts. I couldn’t imagine a mindset that would render such darkness or reconcile that degree of retribution.

Ecclesiastes is right - there is nothing new under the sun. Mankind has destroyed himself and each other since the beginning. There’s no sense to be made of what transpires in the human heart, for it is “…Deceitful above all things and desperately wicked: who can know it? (Jer. 17:9) Solomon said, “There is an evil which I have seen under the sun, and it is common among men” (Ecc. 6:1). Thank goodness for chapter 9: “For all this I considered in my heart even to declare all this, that the righteous, and the wise, and their works, are in the hand of God.” (Ecc. 9:1)

On Friday, I joined the Homecoming Tour in Minneapolis and last night in Moline, Illinois. On Saturday morning I met a family in the hotel lobby who’d attended the concert and their young son had one question for me which he had posed to Guy Penrod, as well. He wanted to know, “Do you have to give the microphone back or do you keep it?” Isn’t that great? He could have asked ANYTHING, and that was his query. That’s what I love about children. They won’t be put in a box.

I’m off to Nashville for GMA on Tuesday. Hope to see some of you there.

Love,
Janet

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04.13.07

Sounds Like Sunday - Album Cover Preview

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04.11.07

North Carolina Wednesday

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Hey Everybody,

It’s a rainy Wednesday morning in North Carolina; the greens are getting bolder and the colors more vibrant. What a great place to live - what great neighbors the residents are - how great to be close to my parents - how exciting to be closing in on the new ‘Sounds Like Sunday’ project. Ahhhh… one of those days you just sit back and think, “Life is good.” I hope you’re having the same kind of Wednesday.

Wayne recorded some of the choir stuff on Monday night and we’ve settled on a cover. Would you like a preview? Just post a comment to the blog - we’ll get it posted.

Off to the hair salon (remember when it was called a ‘Beauty Shop’?), shopping and the tax professional. Good thing the morning started off right!

Have a great one!

Janet

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04.04.07

Making A Record

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Hey Everybody,

It’s Wednesday morning - my fingers are intact - and I’m more excited about the new record than ever. Last night six singers sang background vocals on two of the uptempo songs and they were AWESOME! I’d have paid money to hear them (guess I did, now that I think of it….)

We put the night session on ‘pause’ so that we could hear Melinda Doolittle perform on ‘American Idol’. Melinda has worked with Wayne a lot, and she’s friends with some of the background singers, too. Everyone took time out to text a vote for her - and they say she really is as nice as she seems.

So…. we’re doing more vocals today and we’ve another session tonight. Stay tuned…

Janet

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04.03.07

Sounds Like Sunday

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Hey Everybody,

It’s Tuesday morning, I’m in Nashville for more work on the new hymns project, and I wanted to shoot you an update.

We’ve finally settled on a title, ‘Sounds Like Sunday’, and it is scheduled for release in June. As we’re continuing to work on it, it’s sounding even better than I had hoped for - and I was expecting a lot!!

Yesterday we recorded some vocals as well as a pipe organ track. We went to a church in Nashville that boasts a huge, resonant pipe organ setup. Like my dad, I don’t know how to play a pipe organ, but I know when it sounds right. Yesterday it was right. Wayne (producer, arranger, all around nice person) decided to use the original arrangement and it was as though hearing it on the big pipe organ transported you to a different time. It made the words sink deeper, knowing the musical swells and chords and rests were just where the originator intended.

That’s what we’re hoping for from this project. We’re hoping it will spur all of us to listen to the hymns again - to really listen - and to give the theology entry into our everyday thinking. If we can recapture the awe that inspired the writers to pen these ageless lyrics, then I’m certain that the songs will speak to us, and grant us a new perspective on why we’re here at all. Can you tell I’m expecting a lot???

Wayne just finished the strings and brass in Budapest. He worked with a 70-piece orchestra - the largest we’ve ever used - and they sounded unbelievable. Wayne has raised the bar on this one. I told him yesterday that every church in the country will want to use his arrangements on these songs. You’ll just have to trust me on this one.

Okay - today we are recording some more of my vocals as well as some of the background vocals. This is my favorite time in the studio - when I get to say to other singers, “Ah, let’s do that line again…. Can you brighten the tone a little bit?… A little more energy, please.” I don’t really know what I’m talking about but it sure is fun to tell someone ELSE how to sing now and then!!

I’ll let you know how it goes. If you don’t hear from me, you’ll know the backup singers broke my fingers or something.

Have a great day!
Janet

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03.03.07

Sea Legs

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Hey Everybody,
It’s Saturday morning and I’m in the Ft. Lauderdale airport waiting for my flight home. Don’t you just love wireless internet….

The cruise was wonderful. Perfect weather, wonderful food, great conversation, scenic views, interesting shopping, oh yes, and there was music, too! One of my favorite events was the ship’s 5K Walk For The Cure - and the passengers really came onboard with it. The ship actually ran out of some t-shirt sizes! We had a great time and, hopefully, made a small difference.

I’m trying to do a mental count of the shoes I packed for the trip. My best guess is 17 pairs; 16 of which I wore. Just wondering….Do you think there’ll be shoes in heaven?

Everyone did a great job in the concerts. The Vocal Band sounds great - and they are all such NICE guys with such NICE families. Jeff and Sheri sang some new songs that were wonderful. Russ sang and we all reiterated our long time love for his distinct gift. Lynda Randle sang her signature songs and her rich voice was right on target as usual. Signature Sound made us smile and ask, “Can they do that on stage?” Ben Speer sounded great, as he has for years and years and years. The Hoppers were awesome, as usual. Joy Gardner blessed us all with her anointed singing. We all got to know Lisa Daggs a little better, as she shared her story onstage.

Okay, here’s the ‘behind the scenes’… Charlotte Ritchie saved me mid-week. Bill called the song ‘It’s Not About Now’ and I stood to sing it. I sang verse one and the first chorus. Following the turnaround I was poised to begin the second verse when my mind went blank. I had NO IDEA what the lyric was. I made up some inane, trite phrases until the song returned to chorus, thinking I was home free… FORGETTING that there were 3 verses to that song. I simply held a note until the third verse void disappeared and I jumped back into the chorus….FORGETTING that there was yet another tricky part. Oh, it was not pretty. Since we do the same concert twice a night, I passed a pen and paper to Charlotte during the early part of the second concert and asked ‘What is the 2nd verse?’ She wrote it down and sent it back to me. This time I knew all three verses - as they were intended - thanks to Charlotte, my new hero. When you see her, tell her that she rules!

We’re almost ready to board. Have a great weekend, and remember to stay close to someone with a great memory!

Love,
Janet

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02.15.07

Diggin’ Nashville

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Hey Everybody,

It’s Thursday - day three in Nashville - and it has been a great trip. We’ve had several of those “uhm” moments in the studio, plus I’ve been able to catch up with some friends here. That’s reason enough to record in Nashville…

Tuesday was an acoustic day in the studio. Some of the best players in town brought fiddle, guitar, accordian, mandolin, etc., and we recorded basic tracks for three of the songs. I couldn’t believe the way the old hymns settled into the string sounds, as though the writers intended that in the first place. Some of these songs are so old that it is possible they did!

Yesterday was the infamous photo shoot. My hero stylist, Cindy Rich, did her usual magic and I looked at the pictures and asked, “Is that me?” She could make anyone look good!!

Last night we tracked with the same musicians that we used on the Christmas project. They are just phenomenal. They are all very strong Christians, too, and that makes the session feel good. They ‘get’ it.

Today we’re tracking two sprirituals - and no one will enjoy this part more than me. I still can’t believe I get to do this.

Wayne Haun is displaying his brilliant self in the arrangements - so talented and so unassuming. He’s the quiet guy in the room who knows what everyone else is trying to figure out.

We still haven’t decided on a title - perhaps it shall remain nameless… nah, we’ll come up with something. You all have submitted some great ideas and we’re grateful for that - we’re just trying to hear something that makes everyone say at once, “That’s it!” Maybe I’m dreaming…

I’m home tomorrow then off to Maugansville, Maryland for the weekend. I hope they’ll have snow!

We love you….
Janet

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02.10.07

February in Paris

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Hey Everybody,

I’m in Paris for a Women’s Conference ( I couldn’t wait to write that opening line!) Okay - I’m in Paris - Texas, that is - a wonderful little town which one travel writer named ‘The Best Small Town In Texas’. It boasts the third largest Eiffel Tower in the world (we took pictures today.)

The Lord intended for me to be at this conference. Gency Fortenberry and her group puts together one of the best weekends ever and I really needed to hear what the speaker said last night. Esther Burroughs reminded us that it is as we study the Word and get STILL before Him that God speaks to us. He does not fight for our attention, but He waits for us to become quiet enough to hear Him. That was a well-timed reminder for me. In the busy-ness of my days (never enough hours in them!) I often plan for God to work around my schedule - molding the moving of His Spirit to fit my plans. Esther’s presentation was a wake-up call - a call to dwell in His presence, to hear His voice, to step back to center at the end of the day.

And just think… I heard it in Paris.

Have a great weekend.

Janet

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02.07.07

What’s In A Name?

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Hey Everybody,

It’s Wednesday morning and we’re gearing up for another day of taping at the Opry House. Yesterday was just awesome. There were so many high points - so many moments that made you go, “Uhmmm”, so many great songs and typical Gaither surprises. I sat amazed at the caliber of talent this industry professes. No genre has more potent lyrics or more passionate delivery. This will definitely be a DVD to own.

Here’s the head-shaker today: I’m walking distance from the Opry Mills Mall and I won’t have time to go. Someone told me they filed for bankruptcy protection after I moved away from Nashville. I guess the good news is that sales tax revenues in North Carolina have spiked.

I’ll be back in Nashville next week to begin tracking the new hymns project. Here’s where you come in. We don’t have a record title. We need one. Records sell better when they have a title. They’re easier to ask for. They’re also easier to alphabetize.

Help. Help. Help us name this project. Help us name it now before it is too late. Simply email your suggestion to me - maplesongs@janetpaschal.com

Have a blessed day.

Love,
Janet

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02.06.07

Doeth Good Like A Medicine

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Hey Everybody,

It’s early Tuesday morning, and I’m on the way to Nashville for the new Gaither video shoot. We’ll spend two days singing, visiting, eating and, in general, having fun. I still can’t believe I get paid to do what I do.

Bill and Gloria were at my house a couple of months ago (Oops!! Did I just drop names?) and my family was here, too. Mr. Gaither invited my sister to be a part of the shoot tomorrow and Wednesday, so this will be doubly fun for me. If we can just get through the two days without laughing when we shouldn’t… that will definitely be the most difficult part. We’re notorious for giggling uncontrollably (literally) when we shouldn’t - at the worst times, in fact. So if this shoot doesn’t show a lot of our faces, you’ll know we didn’t do so well. You’ll also know that we probably won’t get invited back anytime soon - together, at least. We lose more invitations that way…

Seriously, this will be fun. Next week we go to the studio to begin work on the new hymns project. I’ll give you details then.

We love you!
Janet

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01.25.07

Breakfast of Champions

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Hey Everybody,

It’s Wednesday, I’m heading home after being in Florida for 3 days. It always amazes me that I can hop on a plane that has just been de-iced, land in Florida, and start wearing my flip flops. God bless America.

I had a solo concert on Sunday night and concerts Monday and Tuesday with Ivan Parker. (Yeah, he’s the one that makes the girls say “Ooooh” and the men say “Whatever.”) We had such fun and the Lord showed up, too. It’s great when it works that way.

Monday morning I had breakfast with Bill and Gloria at a quaint little place they’d found near the beach. You know how much I love breakfast with Gloria - and when you add Bill and my good friend, Deana, well, I could have sat on that patio for hours. I have spent hours, days, weeks, months, years, tours, tapings, and vacations with them and I still walk away amazed at their humility. Regardless of their phenomenal and enduring success, they quietly but firmly sabotage any attempt to put them on a pedestal. They just won’t go there. They challenge me on a number of levels every time I sit across the table from them and, besides that, they find the best breakfast places!

Several of you have asked about the New York trip. My sister and our cousins were there for three days and we had a marvelous time. For about 16 hours a day, we shopped and walked and ate. We used the hotel only for sleeping and quick showers. The highlight of the trip (for me, at least) was the Broadway production, The Color Purple, and I’ve told every singer I know that they need to see it. The vocals were amazing, the songs phenomenal. We laughed. We cried. We gasped. I could have watched it all over again; one of the best musicals I’ve ever seen.

We’re beginning work on the new Hymns project this week. I think the toughest part will be shrinking our list to 12….

Have a great week….. Go Colts….Go Bears… Carolina Panthers, call out for pizza since you’ll only be WATCHING it!

I’ll BLOG again next week.

Love,
Janet

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01.20.07

Working On A Building

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Hey Everybody,

It’s Saturday - John’s out of town, Max is sleeping, and I’m getting ready to leave town. Before I go, I wanted to touch base with you. I’ve been thinking all day of buildings…

On one of the morning’s early news programs they showed the implosion of a large building in New Haven, Connecticut. While watching the Veterans Memorial Coliseum disappear in a cloud of dust, I realized that I’d sung there - several times. When I was singing for the Jimmy Swaggart crusades, we went to New Haven about every two years. They showed some shots of it that I recognized - it caught me a bit off guard.

At Christmastime, John and I joined some friends for a Christmas program at Raleigh’s Memorial Auditorium and, again, I couldn’t help but recall my first time to step into the building. My sister, my cousin and I had a girls trio and our own band - piano, bass, drums and lead guitar. My parents had purchased and renovated an old, old, old, old, old bus and we had our name painted on the sides. We went where ever we were invited. When we traveled out of state, we spent weeks before and after telling all our friends (and anyone else who would listen) that we were going to or coming from Virginia or Georgia or - gulp - Maryland (once)! So… back to the Auditorium… We entered a gospel music contest one Saturday at the Raleigh Memorial Auditorium. That night we were all treated to a concert by the Happy Goodman Family. We couldn’t believe it when their bus pulled up to the curb. Rusty got out to help the driver park and he had on sunglasses - just like a real star. We were wide-eyed. That night the crowd cheered every song, every word, every inflection of theirs. They received multiple standing ovations in the first set. At one point, they finished an uptempo song and our drummer stood to start the inevitable standing ovation - only, this time, no one else stood. He was so embarrassed and, of course, we NEVER let him forget it. Anyway, the Auditorium has been refurbished and redone several times since then. It barely resembles the building that housed our young nerves and enthusiasm.

This past Tuesday I went to yet another familiar builidng - Duke University Medical Center, and specifically the Comprehensive Cancer Center. While preparing for my three month check-up, I was taken through the rooms and hallways that are as familiar as my own home, and I called the nurses and assistants by name. At one point it hit me - the wide gulf between my life now and my life then - and seeing the patients in their wigs and caps with chalky complexion and dull eyes made me whisper another prayer of gratitude that it is behind me. It also made me whisper a prayer for strength and stamina and courage for those who are, even now, plowing through the process of getting well.

So, these old buildings are landmarks, road signs, and markers that help us remember where we’ve been and how far we’ve come. Those are things I never want to forget.

We love you!

Janet

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01.09.07

Start Spreading The News….

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Hey Everybody,

It’s Tuesday, and I’m gearing up to leave town. My sister and our two cousins (we all grew up together) are going to New York City tomorrow for a belated celebration of our birthdays. We were all born in October and we were born in four consecutive years. We figured it was time to have a big celebration doing what we really love - shopping, eating, and talking. (Not necessarily in that order.)

If you’re like me you’re still wondering where 2006 went… or 2005, for that matter. It seems like only a few months ago that everyone was buying generators to usher in 2000. That was over 7 years ago and I still can’t believe it. It’s just like my parents said - the older you get, the more quickly time passes. Guess they know things….

I hope your January is filled with snow (if you like it), cold (if you love it) and warm, cozy chats with the people you love. I think that might even cure illness!

We love you - I’ll have some stories for you!

Love,
Janet

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12.13.06

In the Thick of It !

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Hey Everybody,

It’s Wednesday morning and I’m heading out the door to do some Christmas shopping. John intercepted me and reminded me that a blog was due today…

This past weekend was a lot of work and a lot of fun. I was in Huntington, WV Saturday night at Christ Temple. The music minister there used to sing with Karen Peck and New River and he is a great singer and songwriter. He and his wife, Shirley, took me to Jim’s Spaghetti House there in Huntington and showed me the booth where JFK sat and ate spaghetti decades ago. That night the church choir had their Christmas banquet and I had a chance to sing for them.

On Sunday night I was with Mark Lowry in Asheville for his senior trip. THIS WAS SO MUCH FUN!!!! There were a lot of incredible singers there and the entire program was very laid back and warm. The audience was great, too. They listened and laughed and responded - just a perfect crowd. I tried not to take the whole ’senior’ thing personally - I’m sure Mark didn’t mean it that way. I told the crowd what good friends Mark and I have been for a lot of years. I also told them how, shortly after I was married, one of his first questions to me was whether or not Medicare had a maternity plan. You just have to love him.

This weekend I’ll be on the coast of North Carolina for a concert. I’m looking forward to it - I love singing to Tar Heels!

Clip those coupons and get to the stores early. This is a great time of year!!!

Love,
Janet

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12.09.06

Hymns Update

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Hey Everybody,

I’m on my way out the door but wanted to shoot this update on the Hymns List. We didn’t post all of your suggestions, as we are looking for old, traditional hymns. Otherwise, we’d just record another inspirational project. So… here’s the updated version. Let me know if you want to add anything.

Merry Christmas!

Janet

Abide With Me
All Hail The Power of Jesus’ Name
Amazing Grace
Amazing Love
A Mighty Fortress Is Our God
Because He Lives
Be Still My Soul
Be Thou My Vision
Blessed Assurance
Count Your Blessings
Day By Day
Fairest Lord Jesus
Farther Along
Follow Me
Glory To His Name
God Leads His Children Along
God Walks The Dark Hills
Great Is Thy Faithfulness
Hallelujah, Praise Jehovah
Have Thine Own Way, Lord
Heaven Came Down and Glory….
He Giveth More Grace
He Hideth My Soul
He Is so Precious to Me
He Keeps Me Singing
He Leadeth Me
Hero of Calvary
He Touched Me
He Whispers Sweet Peace To Me
His Eye Is On The Sparrow
Holy Ground
Holy, Holy, Holy
How Great Thou Art
How Long Has It Been?
I Am His, He Is Mine
I Am Thine, O, Lord
I Believe
I Bowed On My Knees and Cried Holy
I Know Who Holds Tomorrow
Immortal, Invisible
I Must Tell Jesus
In Christ Alone
I Need Thee Every Hour
I See A Crimson Stream of Blood
I Surrender All
In Heavenly Love Abiding
In The Garden
It Is Well With My Soul
Jesus Paid It All
Jesus, Saviour, Pilot Me
Just A Closer Walk With Thee
Just As I Am
Leaning on the Everlasting Arms
Lean On Him
Let Him Have His Way With Thee
Let The Lower Lights Be Burning
Love Divine (Wesley)
Majestic Sweetness
Majesty
Marching To Zion
My Faith Has Found A Resting Place
My Heavenly Father Watches Over Me
My Jesus I Love Thee
My Saviour First of All” (Fanny Crosby)
My Tribute
Nearer, My God, To Thee
No One Ever Cared for Me Like Jesus
O, For A Thousand Tongues
O Jesus I Have Promised
On Christ the Solid Rock I Stand
On Eagle’s Wings
One Day (One day when heaven filled with..
Open My Eyes that I May See
O To Be Like Thee
O Worship the King
Pass Me Not
Peace In The Midst of The Storm
Power In The Blood
Revive Us Again
Rock of Ages
Serenaded By Angels
Sheltered In The Arms of God
Softly and Tenderly
Somebody Bigger Than You and I
Standing On The Promises
Sweet Hour of Prayer
Tell Me The Story Of Jesus
The Blood Will Never Lose It’s Power
The King Is Coming
The Love of God
The Ninety and Nine
The Old Rugged Cross
There Is A Fountain
There’s Within My Heart A Melody
The Stranger of Galilee
‘Til The Storm Passes By
‘Tis So Sweet To Trust In Jesus
Through It All
To God Be The Glory
Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus
Under His Wings
Victory in Jesus
Wasted Years
We Shall See The King Someday
What a Day That Will Be
What A Friend We Have In Jesus
When He Shall Come
When I Survey the Wondrous Cross
Where Could I Go
Where No One Stands Alone
Where The Roses Never Fade
Why I Love The Lord
You’ll Never Walk Alone

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11.30.06

We Hear You!

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Hey Everybody,

Here’s a list of songs you’ve submitted so far. Keep ‘em coming!

Abide With Me
All Hail The Power of Jesus’ Name
Amazing Grace
A Mighty Fortress Is Our God
Be Still My Soul
Be Thou My Vision
Blessed Assurance
Fairest Lord Jesus
Glory To His Name
God Leads His Children Along
God Walks The Dark Hills
Great Is Thy Faithfulness
Heaven Came Down and Glory….
He Hideth My Soul
He is so Precious to Me
He Touched Me
His Eye Is On The Sparrow
Holy Ground
How Are Things At Home
How Great Thou Art
I Bowed On My Knees and Cried Holy
I Know Who Holds Tomorrow
Immortal, Invisible
I Must Tell Jesus
I Need Thee Every Hour
I Surrender All
In The Garden
It Is Well With My Soul
Jesus Paid It All
Just As I Am
Leaning on the Everlasting Arms
Lean On Him
Let The Lower Lights Be Burning
Majesty
My Faith Has Found A Resting Place
My Saviour First of All” (Fanny Crosby)
My Tribute
No One Ever Cared for Me Like Jesus
O Jesus I Have Promised
On Eagle’s Wings
One Day (One day when heaven filled with..
Open My Eyes that I May See
O To Be Like Thee
O Worship the King
Pass Me Not
Peace In The Midst of The Storm
Rock of Ages
Serenaded By Angels
Sheltered In The Arms of God
Somebody Bigger Than You and I
Sweet Hour of Prayer
The Blood Will Never Lose It’s Power
The King Is Coming
The Love of God
The Old Rugged Cross
The Stranger of Galilee
‘Tis So Sweet To Trust In Jesus
Through It All
Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus
Under His Wings
Victory in Jesus
What a Day That Will Be
When I Survey the Wondrous Cross
Where No One Stands Alone

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11.27.06

Shoes, Hymns, and a DVD

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Hey Everybody,

It’s the Monday after Thanksgiving, early morning, and I’m mapping out a plan for the day, beginning with an all-points-bulletin for a pair of shoes that I fell in love with, but which other size 8B ladies apparently loved as well. No one loves beautiful clothes more than I but, really, it is all about the shoes.

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving. We had a great one; my sister the non-cook cooked and it was delicious. Of course, the best part was after the meal when we all sat in a gluttonous stupor and talked and dozed while some of the men practiced their softball antics - er, tactics. As usual, I hit the mall early Friday morning with every other red-blooded female, complete with a baseball cap and lightweight, reduced purse. I love walking amid the hustle-bustle of slashed prices and coupon sharing, all to the background music of registers humming and shopping bags popping. It really is the most wonderful time of the year!

We’re gearing up for some Christmas concerts and those are especially fun. John and I are both in the Christmas play at my sister’s church so we’re donning our thespian best and practicing emote, emote….

We’re in the early planning stages for a new record project - a hymns project. This will be my first ever and I’m really looking forward to it. In fact, I’m working on a songlist now so I’d love to hear what your favorite hymn is. We’ll consider them all.

I promised some information about the new DVD from the Gaither Homecoming Series. I haven’t said much about it yet because it probably won’t be available until fall, 2007. As I learn more, of course, I’ll pass it along.

We love you! Let us hear from you!

Love,
Janet

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10.27.06

Emily’s Recap

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A “Gaitherfest” without a single Gaither would have seemed impossible a few days ago, but late last week Bill had to undergo a stent replacement and needed a little time to recover before hosting a weekend of this magnitude; so he made a last minute call to Mark Lowry asking him to emcee the weekend. Mark dropped everything and headed to Myrtle Beach while Bill worked from home to help put together the agenda for the weekend.

A few hours and many cell phone calls later, Mark Lowry led the parade of artists to the stage singing, “Lean on me… when you’re not strong…” As it turned out, no song could have more perfectly prepared us for what would happen during the hours that followed.

Mark announced right away that Bill would not be able to attend, and you could hear a concerned sigh across the crowd, but the evening lacked for nothing as one song folded into the next according to Bill’s instructions. As Mark started feeling more and more confident that things were going well, he decided to rip up Bill’s notes… just as Bill came on via live video feed to ask him what he was doing.

Bill spent the next few moments bantering with Mark, checking in on the evening, greeting all the great folks who were in attendance, and even sang a little song. You could tell that Bill would have loved nothing more than to jump through that video screen and stand beside Mark on the stage; but, as is true with so many good leaders, all his years of teaching, nurturing and building up his team was paying off. The entire event was an unprecedented success because every person who stepped up to a microphone during the weekend had learned something from Bill that would make the event happen in his absence.

Janet Paschal stepped onto the Homecoming stage for the first time in a year-and-a-half, after her breast cancer diagnosis and treatments. And she was back 100%. She has never looked, sounded or communicated better. The audience was thrilled to see her again, and she took the opportunity to say that she never asked God to let her sing again after her diagnosis… she only wanted Him to let her thank all the people who had prayed and supported her during that journey.

Saturday evening was filled with more of those moments that really can’t be adequately described with words but, in a nutshell, it was a personification of the Family of God truly touching heaven together as Christ was lifted up.

The evening ended, as so many Homecoming events have ended over the years, with “Because He Lives.” And as the building cleared, the message lingered as vividly as it has ever lingered… “I can face tomorrow… I know who holds the future… because He lives.”

With or without Bill Gaither… the music went on and God showed up.

Emily Sutherland
Gaither.com

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Leaving Again….

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Hey Everybody,

It’s Friday morning, and I’ve spent the majority of it in the garage. I began reorganizing the CDs, etc., and Max began grabbing my garden gloves and running. I, of course, proceeded to chase him until we were both exhausted. He loves to do something he knows is wrong, just because he knows he’ll get my undivided attention - not that different from the rest of us, I guess.

I’m getting ready to leave town and I’m very excited about it. Don and Nita Brankel were evangelists for many years. He recently began pastoring in Texarkana and they are now readying to dedicate their new church. John Starnes and I are singing for the services and it’s always so much fun to work with him. For years, people had no idea how wonderfully funny he was. Now he’s incorporating that quick wit into his programs and they are just tremendous. He has you laughing one minute and crying the next. Just too, too good.

Last weekend I sang for my first Gaither event since I resumed my concerts and the entire weekend was just fantastic. The only thing missing were Bill and Gloria, and we think the Lord showed up in a special way, knowing how much we’d need it! Bill is doing great now and he expects to be back on the road any day. It’s really amazing when someone has championed an event for so many years that it still reflects your mark whether or not you’re there. They’ve done so many things right for so long that they’re allowed to coast now and then. I selfishly hope, however, that it’s not the next time I’m on the program! I missed them!

We love you and I look forward to seeing some of you in Arkansas this weekend. Go Razorbacks!!

Love,
Janet

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10.18.06

Beloved

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Hey Everybody,

It’s early Wednesday morning. Fall is grandstanding in North Carolina like never before. Maggie (the magnolia) has almost doubled in size, Moe (the sycamore) is getting ready to undress for winter, and I’m browsing recipes. One of my favorite things about fall’s arrival is the first time we turn on the heat; the smelI always reminds me of home and family and fires and quilts. While I love each changing season, this is my absolute favorite.

I recently spent a week at my sister’s church, planning to help with some events. As it turned out, they were so well organized that they didn’t need any extra help at all. Since that was the case, I sat in on my brother-in-law’s evening adult classes. Each night he took us through the nuts and bolts of the Festival of the Trumpets - and he made it matter to us. While you all probably know all of this information, I was wide-eyed, riveted by the way God pulls a thread through history, tying knots along the way. He made it clear that those of us who live in the 21st century are merely products of the events of Leviticus. I left each night with a lump in my throat - no kidding.

One of my favorite ideas was Pastor Gary’s assertion that God never stops filling our hearts with wonder. He reminded us that John, the Beloved Apostle, walked with Christ for three and a half years prior to the crucifixion. He recognized Him walking on the lake. He shared in the multiplication of fish and bread. He stood shoulder-to-shoulder with Jesus while He healed the sick. He traveled alongside Him to Jairus’ home and saw the dead raised to live again. He witnessed, firsthand, the Transfiguration. He knew the agony of Gethsemane and the solemnity of the Last Supper. He stood the lone apostle at the crucifixion. He was the first to arrive at the tomb. Over and over, and more and more his heart was filled with wonder.

In the year 95 AD, John was arrested and sent to Rome as a prisoner. For his punishment, he was boiled in oil, but he emerged unscathed. This miracle was attributed to sorcery and, as a result, he was exiled to the Isle of Patmos. Because he was Jewish he was allowed to worship on the seventh day of each week. He wrote so eloquently of Jesus’ appearance to him on that island (I’ll paraphrase), ‘I was in the spirit on the Lord’s day (the seventh day)…. I heard a loud voice and turned around … His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow, and his eyes were like blazing fire. His feet were like bronze glowing in the furnace, and His voice was like the sound of rushing waters… When I saw Him, I fell at His feet as though dead.’ This beloved apostle who knew Christ intimately, who witnessed the greatest events of history alongside Him, suddenly saw Jesus again and he was still overwhelmed by Him. He fell at His feet, overtaken by the wonder.

It is my prayer that all of us keep the wonder - the realization that we can know Him intimately, that He hears us, that He cares for us, that our lives are held in His hands. That we, too, are His Beloved.

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10.03.06

Blogging, Baseball, and Bedroom Shoes

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Hey Everybody,

It’s Tuesday night, John has just given me a crash course in Blogging 101, and I’m still shaking my head that you and I can sit at our respective computers and communicate in our bedroom shoes. Anyway, this is just a quick update. Deeper, more mind-boggling updates will come later.

We’re gearing up for concerts this weekend. My sister, Kay, is joining me for two North Carolina events. On Friday night we’ll be in Elkin for a pastor with whom I worked when I first began singing solo concerts. He was always so gracious to invite me back, and I’ve never forgotten it. On Saturday, we’ll be at Amy Templeton’s church in Boone for a Ladies Luncheon. I met Amy at a television station when I sang with the Rex Nelon Singers. I always thought she was so beautiful inside and out. Now she and Jeff have two children who are just as beautiful.

While I’m out of town this weekend, John and the church team will be playing their final softball game of the season. I say “final” because they probably won’t make it to the playoffs - unless, of course, some other team has a worse record - which we can’t imagine. What’s more important is that they have fun playing (since they don’t enjoy shopping.)

Okay, that’s all for now. In my next post I’ll tell you about my trip to Indiana for the ‘Best of Janet’ video shoot. Wait ’til you hear….

Blessings,
Janet

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06.22.06

The Right To Choose

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Hey Everybody,

It’s early Thursday morning, Max is in my office pursuing a spider, John is pursuing a few more ‘zzzz’ and I was thinking a note to you all was overdue.

This has been a terrific early summer. I’m having more fun than ever with my concerts and travelling; Moe and Maggie2 are getting along smashingly, and Max and I are spending quality time in my dad’s vegetable garden, as well as my own tiny corner garden from which we’ve already gleaned tomatoes, lettuce, cukes (that’s vegetable garden vernacular for cucumbers), onions and squash. A veritable Martha Stewart without the attorney fees.

I hit pay dirt at a recent concert in South Carolina. First of all, some friends brought two baskets of those unmatched SC peaches that make you grateful for taste buds. I was like a scavenger, cleaning the pits, as though God wasn’t going to grow anymore. The concert sponsor loaded my car with beautiful, healthy begonias and geraniums which will stay that way for a while (John says I wean all my plants off water). Another gentleman, Tom, emailed me a lovely story which I’ll share with you (since the peaches are gone.)

One of the songs in the concert, I Love Today, reminded him of a recent event. An elderly man whose wife had died was being moved from his home to a rest home facility. Tom was ushering him to his room for his initial visit. In an effort at conversation, Tom told the gentleman that his room had lovely decor, etc., and the older gentleman’s eyes lit up and he said, “I love it.” Knowing that he had not seen the room, Tom gently stated that, of course, he couldn’t know that until he had seen it, he was certain he would like it. The older gentleman explained, “Oh, but you see, I’ve already decided that I love it. I wake up every morning and I have a choice - I can be a victim to my aches and pains or I can decide to savor the day and love being in it. So, I know that I love it.”

My nephew told me of a conversation with an evangelist from India. He told Benjamin that his parents chose his wife from a distant city and they did not meet until their wedding day. I’m sure Benjamin was wide-eyed at that prospect, but the evangelist continued, “When I first saw her, I loved her. It didn’t matter if she was tall, short, beautiful, or comely because I had made up my mind before we met that I loved her. Love is a decision, and I decided to love her.” That was ten years and four children ago.

A friend of mine says that everyone has “stuff.” I’ve made the mistake in the past of looking at someone who was healthy or wealthy or wise, and assuming that their life was carefree and seamless. As I have gotten older (and older and older) I realize that everybody has ‘stuff’ in their lives sooner or later, whether it be cancer or loss or discord or discontent. A few years ago Carol Cymbala and I were having tea in the lobby of Nashville’s lovely Union Station Hotel when she slipped a scrap of paper across the table. On it was the handwritten chorus of ‘He’s Been Faithful To Me.’ She said she’d been unable to come up with verses. I said to her, “You know, Carol, I look at you and I think you have everything - amazing talent, a wonderful husband, beautiful children, an incredible church family - and I think you must sail through life unencumbered because you are so blessed.” Of course, you all know the story of their long, private pain - and I realized once more that everybody has ‘stuff.’

One of my favorite Bible stories has Paul imprisoned for years without charge, beaten and denied beyond description, yet when he is hauled from his cell to stand before King Agrippa, his very first statement is “I think myself happy, King Agrippa…” One version writes, “I’m a happy man…”

So, I’m going to pull on my New Balance shoes, grab my iPod Shuffle, and hit the sidewalk with Max. My knees may protest, but at least they’ll be working; my stamina may fall short of stellar, but my heart will be strong; my speed may not be swift, but I’m in it for the long haul. I’ve decided to love today. I’ve decided to embrace every moment - the ups, downs, and in-betweens. This day does not come with a second chance and, if I choose, I can find joy in it. I choose.

We love you - Let us hear from you.

Blessings,
Janet

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