For our very first Creative Limelight, I’m thrilled to introduce you to my dad, Jerry Aquila (aka PJ, short for Papa Jerry), and his beautiful children’s rocking chairs, affectionately called “PJ’s Rockers.”
Jerry has been creating gifts in his workshop for as long as I can remember: flip boxes, jewelry boxes, clocks, trays, and our featured item – hand-made children’s rocking chairs.
Not only was Jerry blessed with the talent of creating, he was also shown the tools and trade of woodworking, along with the act of giving, from his father Joseph Aquila. Otherwise known as Papa Joe, Jerry’s dad inspired a new generation of saw dust creators and joy makers, and is credited with this very pattern.
Featured image from left to right: PJ, aka Jerry, creator of the rockers you see today. Papa Joe, Jerry's dad, inspiring the next generation of wood working and gift giving.
While all kinds of Jerry’s gifts have started with the cut of the saw, the beautiful look, solid construction, and joy that these rockers spark has centered them among his favorite pieces.
With first-born welcoming gifts, gifts to children he’ll never meet at Children’s Hospital, and THREE SETS of twins rockers to name a few, Jerry has hand-crafted 38 rockers as of this article’s writing (February 2021).
Each of these rockers–taking around 10 hours to create–has seen Jerry honing in on the sensitive cuts, taking the time to honor its simple and trusted construction, and finishing each rocker with a personalized wood–burned name.
We just adore the rockers and the kids are in them, on them, using them, playing on them every day! They carry them around from room to room and are truly treasured in our family.
Rockers are kid tested and mom and dad approved. Parents love their beauty and decorative elements, but nothing beats the enjoyment of the kids experiencing a first piece of furniture built specially for them. Being able to create that space and happiness has Jerry coming back to these rockers time and again.
Interested in a PJ Rocker for yourself or others? Fill out this form and it'll get you in touch with the man himself!
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2 Responses
Absolutely beautiful rockers!!
Amazing family tradition that I hold dear to my heart! Can’t wait to one day recieve one…