Girl's Night At Its Best!

It's been a little over a year and half since we moved away from the familiar territory that we knew, and even though I feel confident at church, and in my new area developing true friendships can be hard. I'm grateful for the extrovert in me, the fact that I've found ways to adjust in unfamiliar territory, and that I'm fearless when it comes to introducing myself, and saying hello to a fellow parent at school, and of course...church. 

Noah & Celeste: Two Great Imitators!

It's been almost a week since my dear friend Ceyda, and her sweet daughter flew back to Utah, and even though things around our house are pretty much back to our normal routine I still expect these two to be staying up late, drawing, coloring, watching Trolls two times in a row, and playing board games. I was amazed at the bond they immediately had after meeting each other for the first time three years ago. It was like kismet. As if they knew each other before this life, and even though they've only spent two weeks together in the seven years of their life it seemed as if they've known each other forever.

Beach Trip With New Friends At Bradley Beach.

Words cannot describe how blessed we are to have met some great people. 

Normally when one moves into a new area going to activities whether in our community, or at church may not seem like fun to newcomers, but for us...we were all for it. I have long since realized that in order to get out of my comfort zone, I need to get involved with going to activities in my community, and at church, lose myself in service, and fellowship like no other. 

Yesterday, the kids and I drove to Bradley Beach to meet up with the young women, and a few sisters from our church, including the Bishop's wife for an "almost end of summer fun beach trip." I just love these group of girls, and the sisters in our new congregation are pretty awesome too. These young women took Lexie under their wing, and made her feel welcomed since day one. Although Lexie misses her friends, and leaders back in our old congregation, she is grateful to have made some new ones. 

And so am I. 

We all had so much fun getting to know each other on a temporal level, and just laughed at how our girls were being in the water. It was relaxing, and stress free. There was no drama, or awkwardness. Just pure fun, and joy. We were all genuinely enjoying each others company eating homemade chocolate chip cookies (thanks Sister Neilson), and just soaking up the sun. Truly didn't want it to end.

As you can see I only took one photo, and a selfie of the kids and I upon leaving. I was having too much fun to be on my phone. There are only two snaps on my snapchat from this day (which you can view at r_jorgensen), but other than that my interest was in having fun with my kids, and getting to know my new sisters better. 

This was our first time at Bradley beach, and it is really pretty. Next time we come I'll take more pictures, but because I was among good people didn't worry about picture taking this time. 

So thankful for these wonderful ladies, and for the girls for making us all feel as if we are part of their church family. 

As it should be. 

And if it wasn't, well...I would still be who I am loving, and being accepting of others no matter what. And that's the beauty of the gospel is accepting people for who, and how they are. 

Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend, and enjoying this low key, somewhat kind of less humid heat! 

On Unconditional Friendship.

In all my years I never thought that I would ever find the right man let alone someone who would love everything about me even after telling him every single detail about my past! Can I get a "kudos for your man", and a big wow, because I certainly was no angel. There are days when I feel as if we're still living in Utah dating except with kids. He was my best friend for three years before we dated, and truly is my best friend now. When I first moved to Utah I decided to call up all the returned missionaries who spoke at my baptism including the elder that baptized me to let them know I had moved there permanently, and when I phoned Jon he sounded surprised, and enthusiastic! I could tell he was so happy that I was living there, and almost immediately we began to go on friendly dates. I dated quite a few RM's, but Jon was the sore thumb that stood out (and in a very good way.) He treated me with respect, never stood me up, always kept his word on what he had planned for us, and loved me unconditionally. He was such a good listener (still is), and always cared about my feelings. He knew whether I was having a good day, or a bad day. He was always there for me when I needed uplifting, my car fixed, and a shoulder to cry on. He also respected me when it came to being physical. If anything...I was the aggressor when it came to the physical part of our relationship, but that's a whole different story. Overall his image of respect was right on point, and it was very impressive to know that guys like him existed in the world. You know...the opening the door, standing up from the table when you stood kind of guy. And that's how he was...quite a package. 

One of my favorite memories of Jon's love and goodness in serving while living in Utah is the time I went looking for a job and interviewed with American Express. The woman that interviewed me recommended me going to a modeling agency. She asked me why I was applying for a desk job when I should be exposing my beauty to the world. I was like ooookaaaaayyyy! I laughed, and hesitated for a moment, but took the card she gave me of the agency anyway. When I arrived I remember Laurel who was one of their top models at the time telling everyone, "look at this great girl!" I was in shock, and surprised that they even took me in. I was this 5 foot nothing short, skinny, little Mexican girl with a huge head of hair, and they were willing to give me work! I was so excited, but not too excited about the amount it was going to cost to get me started in paying for professional photos. After they gave me a phone number to a photographer I headed out the door, and the first person to tell my news was to Jon. He noticed I was a bit melancholy, and asked if I got the job. I told him that I did get "a job" and when I proceeded to tell him it was for McCarty modeling agency and not American Express he didn't seem surprised. He was impressed. Apparently they have a good reputation (still do), and that made me even more excited to be a part of their agency. Without even asking him for money I let him know what it was going to take to get me started, and when I told him it would cost a few hundred dollars he lent  gave me the cash for the pictures! I didn't even ask him, and certainly didn't really think anything of it except that he truly was a very dear friend to have who was willing to help me out! To give me money for a photo shoot without expecting anything in return was a big "wow" moment for me. There were no regrets from the two of us, and I got a few modeling print jobs done, and the money for those pictures certainly paid off. I then realized that he had major feelings for me, and slowly but surely I began to dump the other four guys I was dating excluding Jon, and in the end it was a pure Jon and Rose life. 

Seeing all the signs of what a good friend he'd become throughout those three years even on his mission was overwhelming to me because I had never experienced such unconditional goodness in friendship throughout my teenage years. And then you add in his spirituality, and strong love he has for the Lord made it feel as if I hit the mother load! 

Here we are almost 20 years later continuing the journey of this crazy life of ours. In friendship we've learned throughout the years to not take anything so seriously especially when it comes to drama, and believe me there has been plenty of that in our life. Together we are strong in making it in this crazy, but beautiful world we live in with for awesome children that we created together. I couldn't have asked for a better husband, and friend. 

It is also my hope that when it's time for all of our children to marry that they will seek, and pray for an eternal companion that'll give them everything that has value in spirituality, integrity, and friendship.

**Picture taken at this pumpkin patch /corn maze this past October. 

  

lovely young women of virtue.

When we arrived at Vanessa's place to gather with some of the other young women in our ward before mormon prom to take pictures I began to tear up just a bit. Everyone looked so beautiful, and this was definitely a kodak moment! Six years of living here & I have seen most of these girls blossom since the age of 9...including my own daughter, & now she's 14! When did that happen? Seriously Lexie...stop growing!

For some it was their first Mormon prom & for others it was their final. But look at them...they all look gorgeous!! 

I'm so proud of how far these young women have grown to be who they are. Each of these young women carry a unique personality, and are on a different level of spirituality. They carry themselves together really well, and although they may have had some struggles along their coming of age they have all managed to keep it together by never giving up on the Lord. Knowing that they are all daughters of a kind, accepting, and loving Heavenly Father gives them the peace to know that despite any adversity that comes into their life they are never alone. Luckily these girls have each other, and because they are all so unique in their own way, they each help balance each other out and that's what makes them get along so well. They all know how to love, fellowship, accept, and show kindness to others no matter the circumstance. They are our future young women leaders of the church, and virtuous daughters of God, and I love them all! 

Mandatory photo that had to make it into the blog. My wonderful friend Faith took this photo of Noah photo bombing it...too cute! 

This photo is majorly obligatory for the blog with Chelsea's little squint and all. Chelsea and Melanie have become little buddies. I love both these girls, and Melanie...if you're reading this I want you to know that you have come a long way in showing how much you have matured in the gospel, and how far you have come in life to being an example that other young girls can follow. I pray that you will stick to your values, and never let anyone bring you down. The only thing that matters in your life and in your heart is the love that you feel for others, and the Lord. You are loved by so many! Stay strong, and you will go far in life. 

This goes for all of the young women in our ward, stake, and all over the world. You are all beautiful in God's eyes. Stand firm in what you believe in, and stay true to your standards. Your beliefs are what define you, and strive hard to live by them. Remember the values that y'all were taught that we recite every Sunday. Be yourself every day of your life, and others will see that special light in which they want to have. Be a good example, share the gospel every chance you get, & always listen to the promptings of the holy spirit. Most of all...love! Love, love, love everyone that God puts in your way...even the ones that hurt you. Love & forgiveness is the key to happiness, and that is what the gospel is all about. 

"I truly believe that one Virtuous young woman, led by the spirit, can change the world."

~Elaine S. Dalton

a dance in manhattan.

There are days when I look at my children, and ask myself where did the time go? Especially this girl because look at her! She is absolutely gorgeous & growing up way too quickly! There are times day after day when I have to just sit back and stare...knowing that at some point I have to let go of the reigns. Let her make her own decisions. Let her learn experiences on her own. Let her practice her free agency. But because I'm a mother...her mother I have to learn control in not treating her like a little kid anymore. 

My love for her runs so deep, and I mean the deepest you'll ever know. She is my firstborn, and the one who sets the example for her brother, and sisters, and every person out there who is her friend. She is the one that they are going to look up to, and ask certain questions when it comes to her beliefs, about how she deals with life, struggles, and for her sibs...mom nagging all the time. The one that they'll turn too when they need advice about a boy, girl, school, or an issue where they feel is too personal for a parent to understand.

Hopefully that'll be different because as a mother I want all my children to be able to talk to me about anything. They know that first and foremost I am their mother & want them to know that I will put my listening ears on and without yelling using my loud voice do my best in understanding anything they want to talk to me about.

Going to the city this past weekend for Noah's birthday gave an opportunity for Sierra to go to a young single adult dance that was being held in the cultural hall inside the Manhattan temple. She invited a few friends who aren't members of the church & even though they don't share our beliefs...they are good people. You can't imagine how happy I get when she surrounds herself with goodness, and people that make her happy. True friends that won't hurt her, or put her in a position that is dangerous, and out of control. New york city may be scary for some, but in my opinion safer than Philly, and the best, most fun, and safest city this side of the island. The fact that there is a temple in the heart of Manhattan does bring a spirit of its own. One that helps the city to be more safer than usual. There are times when my family and I have taken the subway in the middle of the night, and had no harm come to us. I believe if you know the area, and the do's and dont's of the city then you'll be ok.

My trust in leaving Sierra with these gentleman she's known for five years puts me at ease. I can tell they were excited to be in the city, and for Sierra to have introduced them to an atmosphere that may be too different to comprehend. An atmosphere that is all too familiar for Sierra, but unfamiliar to them. In the end I'm glad they had fun, and even though coming home at 2:20 in the morning was a bit worrisome...I knew she was in good hands. Still...I can't help but to have morbid thoughts, and that is something that I still have to work on regardless of who her friends are. It's unfortunate, but little by little I am getting there. As long as I feel a good vibe around these guys, and see a happy smile on her face when she comes home...I know they are good, and that's all that matters.  

Besides...I know where they live. (wink)

Angelic friends to the rescue

The Lord has blessed us with amazing friends here in Jersey. If we have just one person in our lives that exhibit true friendship, and know the meaning of how it is to be Christlike...that's all we need. In this case we've had two, and if you don't mind I'm going to boast about them...all in the name of service. 

This woman has been a blessing in my life, and an amazing friend to the Jorgensen clan. She is Chelsea's former kindergarten teacher, and has become a surrogate aunt to her. Last night was Candy Bar Bingo at Chelsea's school, and substituted on my behalf in taking her. She wanted to take Chelsea, and see all the other kids from her former class. Ms. Griffith's tradition with Chelsea every time she takes her out is they must eat at Friendly's afterwards. Yes...that's Chelsea's favorite part. She also LOVES spending time with her.

As y'all know our car broke down two weeks ago, and one of the things I was stressing over was how the girls are going to make it to their piano, and violin lessons. Here comes Ms. Griffith to the rescue. I felt so comfortable in asking her if she would do me the favor in taking the girls to their lessons just until we got the car fixed, and she didn't hesitate for nothing. As a matter of fact I left her a long message on her voice mail explaining to her what happened to our car, and how I needed help in getting the girls to their lessons. She immediately returned my call right away. Not the next day, not two days later, right away...meaning within the hour!!!

The Lord has been extremely good to us during this trial. I truly don't feel alone at all in this 'broken down car/waiting for it to get fixed' situation.

As members of the church we tend to observe, and help others in times of need. You also know when someone truly LIVES the gospel, and understands how to serve in an unconditional manner just as Christ would. Someone who goes with the saying, "He will take his shirt off his back for anyone." Well, I know a few people in our church who exhibit that perfect example of service adding a mix of, "the pure love of Christ."

The Albrecht's...

Since my husband is the seminary teacher in our ward, we were trying to figure out how he was going to get to early morning seminary. Since he picks up two other young women he was worrying even more as far as finding a solution to this problem. My husband's main concern was teaching seminary to the kids. To be honest, most of the parents didn't seem to help us find a solution as to how they were all going to make it to seminary, or if anyone else would be willing to sub for him...or even offer to help pick him up.

We thought of finishing seminary inside our home for the remainder of the school year, but then my husband mentioned that the kids can be pretty loud, and our house isn't that big. Although our basement isn't finished, I mentioned that I could fix it up and he could teach down there. We were seriously thinking of doing that when last Sunday Brother Albrecht came up to Jon, and said to him that he can use his car to take the kids to seminary, and leave it at the house for me to use. He is willing to do this until our vehicle is fixed. What an amazing guy!

I can't begin to tell you how much that meant to me. My heart swelled up, and it brought back memories of when we lived in San Antonio, and in North Carolina. This is the third state in which we had a 'car situation' and members of the church observed our predicament which ended up in a family offering the use of their car until it got fixed! Now that's what you call service, and an amazing Christlike attribute!

There are also two other friends we have in our community who have extended a helping hand, and I thank them also. We also appreciate those in the ward who have also had a part in helping us with a ride, or even the gesture as to being "concerned". I also appreciate those who instead of asking us, "Is the car fixed"?, or "When are you going to fix your car"? ask us,"If y'all need anything...please let us know." 

That's the kind of question I like hearing, and the ones whom I feel truly understand the meaning of service.