First Day as a Sophomore!

It's so true when they tell you that the years fly by especially when they get into high school. That couldn't be more true. Today is the first day of high school and Noah is now a sophomore! It's mind-blowing to see that. The years have definitely flown for us with him. He was pretty excited to go back. When I picked him up after school today and asked about his day he said so far his teachers seem pretty cool. Nice. So let's hope this kid has an amazing school year. It won't be perfect but I know he does his best in being a good student! 

12th & 7th!

Today is the first day of school for my last two birdies. Senior year for Chelsea and 7th grade for Noah. I look back at this post and wonder...where has the time gone! I feel as if I blogged about their first years of school yesterday! Wishing the best of luck to them and to all the kids out there who have already returned to school. I pray many blessings of safety upon our children as they enter the halls of their school-wherever they roam. Hoping that they are not faced with any tragedy. Adversity is common among kids growing up and trying to find their way as they get older, especially when it comes to their future. I am thinking of the kids of Uvalde as well and hope that those who survived that horrific tragedy  continue to be resilient and strong as they return back to school. Everyone is built differently and I hope that my kids will remember to always BE KIND, keep their guard up and to live each day as if it was their last! 

First Day Of Eighth & Third Grade!

It's been almost a month since Chelsea & Noah started school, and if y'all read this post you'd know that we moved to another school district. It's only a town over, and luckily the transition didn't hit them too hard. It was a little bumpy at first beginning at a new school with learning the ropes on how different it is compared to our old school, but so far they have adjusted and doing well! 

Back To School Quote-"Just Keep Trying!"

I usually think of a scripture or a quote for the kids as the kids start a new school year, and after Jon gave a fathers blessing to all the kids all I could think of were three simple words from Elder Holland, "just keep trying." It's from this talk he gave this past April. In a world where there is so much chaos, and adversity especially when it comes to our children particularly in their younger years with all of them starting their second year in a new school just seemed fitting for them. Even though they had a great first year in a new school district  doesn't mean their "perfectly ok."

Noah-isms // Fall Edition.

So i have all these games, and scrapbooks upstairs in the attic near the kids bedroom and as Noah was taking a game out of the closet he noticed the scrapbooks. He knows that I work on them from time to time and asked if he could see his. For the first time since he was a toddler he looked through the scrapbook with curiosity and interest, and after glancing through pages of sheet protectors filled with cards, and photos he had a lot of questions about them. He pulled out some of the cards & asked, "Who gave these to me mom, and what are they?" I said, "they're cards that were given to you from friends & family when you were born." " I like them mom, I really like the people who thought of me when I was born." -Noah

As we were driving around leaf peeping, "look mommy, the leaves are falling off the trees, and it looks like they're dancing." 

Every year we have 'spirt week' at the kids schools, and on the day it was pajama day Noah said, "It's not pajama day, it's a school day." He ended up wanting to wear regular clothes.

When I was editing some photos of Lexie and I, Chelsea said that I looked like Sierra in one of those pictures. When I asked Noah if he thought I looked like her in the photo he said, "yes mom, you both have circles in your hair."

So we've been having an Indian summer lately, but when the sun goes down the air gets cooler. I don't care to turn on the air condition so I rolled the windows down. Noah's seat is right behind the drivers side, and so when I rolled my window down he said, "I'm freezing up mom roll your window up." It was like 60 degrees. 

Jon had the day off on Noah's picture day, and since Noah looked so handsome I wanted to snap a quick photo of him, and Jon before we walked to the bus stop. After I took the photo Noah said, "it's okay mom. You can stay home. Daddy's got this." Guess what? I ended up letting Jon and Noah have some bonding time for those 10 minutes of walking, and waiting at the bus stop. 

When it's Noah's turn and one of us tries to help him with saying a prayer, "I can do it by myself!"

While going for a drive to go leaf peeping Noah nonchalantly says, "If only the leaves were blue."

While watching a bit of television a preview of the Supergirl series came on, and Noah said, "I don't like that show, I like the man one." 

There's a lot more where that came from, but like I wrote in my last Noah-isms post...I don't want to rack my brain trying to remember every single phrase that he utters. I take in the moments of our conversations, and focus on him. I love laughing with him. He truly is the sweetest, and funniest little boy I've ever met...

and I'm so glad to know him! 


Happy Wednesday! 

TO LEXIE IN YOUR SOPHOMORE YEAR OF HIGH SCHOOL.

Today Lexie begins her sophomore year of high school, and I couldn't be more pleased with who she is becoming. She truly is a light in my world, and we are so excited to see what this year holds for her! I have written this letter for her in hopes that she will fall back on whenever she's having to make hard decisions. Even though she is a great kid she is not exempt from all the poison that is lingering out in the world to damage our youth in all the good they are striving to do. Although this post was written three years ago I revamped it a bit specifically for her. I also write it for you too. For any youth out there who may have struggles, or for those of you who just need a reminder. I know I do! So this is for my daughter, and all the kids out there who are returning back to school today. 

But first I want to implement this scripture...

"Stand ye in holy places

and be not moved, 

until the day of the Lord come;

for behold it cometh quickly, 

saith the Lord." 

Doctrine & Covenants 87:8

Dear Lexie, 

If we understand the laws and commandments of the Lord, read our scriptures, and strive to do what is right in living the life of a christian, life won't be as hard, and there will be no need to get overwhelmed. Sure our lives get busy, and when we are at our lowest, that's when we want to give up. There are many times when I have felt that way in my life especially in my teens, but when I am reminded of the time I entered an unfamiliar church, and became a member life was better for me. And now that I am older and married with kids, I know that the Lord has kept me on His side in helping me to understand the blessings that come from being obedient in living the life, and work of the Lord. In the end I know it will all be have been for my own good, but most of all worth it. Plus, I am in love with all of the teachings that the gospel teaches everyone. 

As you know we continue to live in a harsh world, and it seems like the youth of every generation is being targeted with all kinds of temptation. One thing that you have as a reminder is written in the "For the strength of youth" pamphlet. That is the key to happiness throughout your high school career,  and knowing that that little book is out there puts me at ease in hopes that you will strive your best to keep your standards high. 

Even though your 15 the months will fly, and before you know you will be 16 which means you'll be allowed to go on actual dates. Yikes! Group dates mind you. Time goes by so fast, and because of time I wanted to take this opportunity to remind you of why I wrote this three years ago, and why it's beneficial in your life today.

On music...

When it comes to listening to music choose the right kind. Please make sure that it is conducive to the spirit. If there are curse words in the lyrics or any sexual innuendos that you find offensive I highly advise you to skip to the next song. If you are at a school dance, and you hear that kind of music go to the bathroom, try super hard to block it out of your mind, or just find the nearest exit and leave. I don't care if it has a good beat to it, it's still not inviting a good spirit. Listening to that type of music can lead you into temptation, and dark territories that you just don't want to experience. Believe me i know. I grew up listening to the best music that had bad language, but because I wasn't active in any church I didn't know any better. Now I do, and so do you. So let's continue to listen to classical music, and 21 pilots. Also...no grinding train! Just had to add that on here! 

On bad language...

I know y'all cringe when people curse especially at school. Whether it's the D word, or the other word they use for poop, or the worst word of all which rhymes with suck. Always use clean language. I have used bad language in my lifetime, and never thought how awful it sounded until I heard someone else use it! I'm not perfect, and I know that I've slipped up from time to time because let's face it...I'm not perfect. So please don't follow my example. Try your very best to not be my inner voice at times of stress. I know that I have come a long way with my anger, and I am proud of that, and also pleased that you have never uttered such words so keep it up, and so will I! 

On dating...

There is a special someone out there waiting to sweep you off your feet. Take the time in searching for your prince when the time is right (preferably when you're in college), and most of all make sure it is someone that will take you to the temple. Make sure he holds the same standards as you, and has the same goals. Never lower your standards for anyone, and I mean anyone. Don't ever let a boy make you feel guilty for how you live your life. Don't ever be embarrassed in what, and who you stand for. Be selective when it comes to going on dates. Think with your head, and not your heart. There is no need to be exclusive with a boy throughout your teen years. Trust me...having a boyfriend in high school can become a headache. I know this from too much personal experience! Always go on group dates where you can. Laugh, and talk with everyone while on a date. The teen years are precious, and those years are the most crucial years of your life in finding out who you are. Focus on your schoolwork, but most of all just have clean fun! Enjoy this time in your young life! 

On serving...

Serving is something that I love to do especially when I am at my ultimate lowest. When my days are bleak with worry, or stress I will find a way to reach out to someone in need. Whether it's writing a letter, reading my scriptures, or picking up the phone to call someone, or even serving you. I see that attribute in you Lexie, and I am very pleased. Keep that up, and always find ways, but mostly the time to serve. Servin willingly and your life will be blessed. I guarantee that it will bring much happiness to your life. 

I love you very much, and pray for you daily. Be the example of living a christian life to your friends, and most of all your siblings. They look up to you just as you looked up to Sierra. Keep your standards high, and no matter how tough life gets always, always stand in holy places. 

And have a wonderful 2015-2016 school year! 

Peace and love, 

Mom

FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL TWENTY FIFTEEN.

Can I just tell you what an emotional mess I was the other day. I mean I really thought I had it together with this "letting my kids go" "i'm okay with them growing up" stuff. I mean I've had four kids right? I've been around the block three times, and I have sent three girls to preschool including daycare and even half day kindergarten in the past so why Noah? Why was I such a nervous wreck with this one when he got on the bus, and why did I cry so many tears? Lexie's response, "because he's your only boy mom, he's the baby." And you know what...she was right on point! 

I still can't fathom being alone during the day, and I know that may sound wimpy and that's probably a weakness for me when it comes to my children, but I absolutely love my kids. I am not one of those mothers who just wish my kids away, and say stuff like, "I cannot wait for them to get out of the house." If anything I want them to live with me for always. I personally wouldn't mind if they were all living with me, because that's how much I love them. I could never grow weary of their presence or attitude. That's part of my motherhood, and I am just so grateful for that feeling because I could tell that my mother had similar feelings once it was our turn to leave the nest. In spite of all the downs I had with my mother when I was young I could tell that she didn't want us to leave her as we got older. I know this because she would always cry when we would leave the house after visiting her. She would even get a little upset when we moved out of the house at such a young age, but for me I am going to try hard to not do that with my kids. I found that it was a little hard to let go of Sierra when she left for Utah, but it's all good now, and I'm happy that she's enjoying life out west. 

I know eventually it'll get easier as the years go by. I know this! I know that all kids grow up, and that life moves on. I know that with time, things will get easier. One thing for sure is that I'm so, so glad that Lexie is here with me all week so that I can adjust to Noah being gone. I firmly believe there's a reason why Noah and Chelsea started school a week earlier than Lexie this year. The good man upstairs knew that I was going to need some solace from someone once Noah left for school, and that someone was my 15 year old daughter. An old soul she is. 

One thing for sure is that I didn't think I was going to cry at the drop of a hat once the bus took off! One thing that put me at ease when those doors opened was that I knew the bus driver. He goes to my church, but that still didn't make things any better. When I saw Noah's little hand pressing up against the window as the bus drove off I lost it! I cried so much to the point where I was inhaling, and hiccuping. I honestly don't know what I would've done had I not had somebody by my side at that given moment. I'm sure I probably would've stood there for a good five minutes then slowly walking home and sitting on the couch moping, and crying for at least an hour. Luckily I'm built to resolving my own issues, and handling hard things without bombarding someone with my sadness. I know this because I've had good cries like that before, and living for 43 years in this life believe me...I've had many issues! 

It was one of those moments where all you need is a good cry so you put in one of those sappy movies like "The Fault of Our Stars" to clear the sadness. I'm also lucky to have this little blog in the corner of the net to write my heart out about the things that I find hard in this life, and faith in my heart knowing that in the end everything will be okay. 

One thing that did help me besides having Lexie by my side that day was hearing words from a random neighbor whom I've seen driving up and down our street before, but have never really talked to him. 

As the bus was driving off he was in the car waiting to cross, and he stopped to say something to me. He looked like someone's sweet grandpa, and his words sure brought me a lot of support. He said to me, "was that your baby getting on that bus?" I said, "yes, it was." He said, "I can tell by the look on your face that he's your baby." Just know that he'll be fine, and that he'll have a good year." I said thank you, and he drove away. After hearing his words of comfort I knew that Noah was going to be ok, and then my tears subsided.

Those three hours of school went by pretty quick probably because Lexie was with me. We walked to the bus stop and waited for the bus to arrive. As the bus drove closer to the curb I was standing at I was relieved to see them  through the window sitting together. Apparently they are "bus buddies" and I am very happy that they both get to sit with one another after school until the buses come. Noah looked a little tired when he got off the bus. I snap chatted this whole experience, and if it's still on there you have about 24 hours to view it at r_jorgensen before it gets completely deleted. 

PM kindergarten is something that I'm going to have to get used to because like I said, I have never experienced having a kid attending PMK so this is going to be very interesting.  I know eventually I'll get used to it , and slowly build a creative routine for our morning on what to do before he leaves for school, but for now I'll learn as I go, and do.

This morning was kind of a long one. After having cold cereal for breakfast we painted for a bit, and even though Lexie told me to eliminate technology all together I caved in, and had him watch pbs kids because, peg + cat is his favorite. He played with his legos for a bit afterwards, and then we took him to the park. It has been hot and muggy for the past few days, and because I didn't want to wear him out before school we only endured about 25 minutes of mugginess. We also decided to add a bit of tennis before school if he's up to it. 

I've decided that we're just going to lay it cool in the house until cooler temperatures arrive. Then we can do all the fun stuff like riding on the bike trail, but for any of you moms who have a five year old attending half day PMK, and have any tips on what you do with your child please share!

I have a very strong feeling that this year will fly just as the rest of them have, but I'm not counting the days. I just want to focus on the positivity in hopes that our kids have a fun, and educational school year that way future school years for Noah will become easier and easier....especially for me! 

Let's just hope I don't turn out like Jane Fonda in Monster-in-Law when his time comes to get married! Yikes! 

The Things Noah Said During the First Week of School...

The first week of school went really well for the girls. They all love their classes, and so far their teachers are pretty neat. Lexie can find her way around the high school (it helps having had her sister attend there for four years), she absolutely LOVES tennis, playing in the pep band, and had their first football game of the season. She looks forward to more tennis matches, and football games and then auditioning for the fall play. Add in waking up at 5am for early morning seminary for the rest of the school year! Busy girl, but she loves it all! 

Fourth graders have it pretty easy so far, and Chelsea loves her teacher. I never worry about Chelsea's behavior in class, it's the other kids I worry about that make things hard on the teacher that don't pay attention, and bug Chelsea. Hopefully this year will go smooth, but it's usually inevitable and luckily Chelsea has the tolerance, and a mouth to let the teacher know when a child is misbehaving, and bothering her. Overall...I'm sure they are all going to have a great year. 

Now I get to have my one on one full attention with Noah. He's my first priority, and even though I give him some time on his own to entertain himself I still watch his every move including the things he says. And boy has he uttered some pretty funny things lately. Come hang out with my kid, and you'll "hear" what I'm talking about. 

Just listen to (read) these sayings....

"Where's my back to school sign mommy. I want to hold it. It's so pretty!" 

Chelsea: "Mom my fleece jacket from last year fits better & I can wear now." Noah: "Mom, Chelsea's coats from last year fit now...can I wear mine too."

Chelsea: "I'm so happy because Ms. Kelley gave me a blue folder...my favorite color!" Noah: "Mom, since Chelsea's teacher gave her a blue folder can i have one in red? Okay mom? Red. I want red mom."

Me: "Noah, what kind of cereal would you like? Scooters, or Life? Noah: "Um...I want your cereal  mommy." (I eat frosted flakes.)

"Daddy, my spit has boogers in it!"

"Mommy I want shark and whale Lego's." 

Me: "Noah, do you want to stay here with Lexie or come with us to the store?" Noah: "I want to play on the computer." Me: "This is not multiple choice." 

"Mommy,  are you my mommy?" 

Me: "Yes Noah...I'm mommy. Are you my  Noah?" Noah: "Mommy I'm a boy!" Me: "Yes, I know your a boy, and your Noah too." Noah: "I'm a boy named Noah. And daddy's a man named daddy & your a girl named mommy!" 

Noah: "Where are my sisters? Is Sierra coming home? I want her." Me: "They're all at school Noah, and Sierra is in Utah." Noah: "I want to go to school too, I want to go to Utah, and wear my Darth Vader backpack. I want my sisters mommy." Me: "Next year Noah, next year you can go to school, and they will all be home soon okay?" 

Noah: "Oooooohhhhhhkaaaaaaaay." 

And This is why I absolutely love staying home with Noah & tending to his every need 24/7! I love giving my full attention to this boy & no matter how many gray hairs I get because of the off the wall answers I get they are all worth it! I. Am. Never. Bored!

My ears have been so attuned lately with the things he's been saying & I have managed to retain his words, and quickly jot them down every time he says something worth remembering. He's growing up way too fast, and want to notate every word that he utters. I didn't really record any of the things the girls said while they were toddlers  except write about the silly things they did. I'm sure the girls had 'cute sayings' but  for some reason this boy is different & the things he's said so far are pretty sweet, and funny. 

So I'm paying extra attention to his words & have started saving his voice mails too. They're so sweet & most of them occur when we're out running errands. He'll call asking me to not forget the milk or Hawaiian rolls. Sometimes I have my phone on vibrate which causes them to leave me a voice mail.  Luckily there hasn't been any major emergencies when they've called me, but those Hawaiian rolls for Noah are a pretty big emergency for him. 

After listening to a podcast on NPR on how a mother recorded her children on an answering machine when they were little got me doing the same thing. I began saving all of our kids voice mails. Too bad I started late with Sierra.  It'll be interesting to hear her voice at 24 & compare it to a message she left when she was 17. Same with Lexie and Chelsea. They are both still young, and developing and look forward to the day when they are all in their 20's so that they can hear how their voice sounded when they were little. 

These times are so important for our children, and mine are so precious to me. I value my time with them, and even though I'll give them breathing room, and "space" for my teenager...I will never take them for granted. 

Happy Monday everyone! 

A Back To School Post.

The night before school was a little chaotic. We rushed out to buy last minute school supplies, and things kind of felt a little off, and I'm not used to off. I'm used to being organized, and buying things a month in advance. It was ten o'clock at night when we finally read scriptures as a family, and when prayer was over I looked over at my tired husbands face, and said, "Aren't we missing something?" He looked over at me and said, "It's your turn to say the prayer." I then said to him, "I know that hun, but there's something else that we do before school starts. Every year since Sierra started pre-k. Every. Single. Year. For . The. Past. Eighteen years. Hellerrrr...

Father's blessings for the kiddos!

Because it was after labor day weekend Jon ended up coming home around eight o'clock from work, and was super exhausted. I'm sure delivering at least 175 packages in 90 degree weather hopping in and out of a truck driving all over creation in Jersey can do that to you. Lucky for him he doesn't mind driving.  He felt so bad that he didn't think of it first, and the fact that I didn't pick a "back to school" quote last year, or even this year made me feel a little sad, and disappointed in myself!

There was a quote I read by Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, and after reading his talk about defending our beliefs I knew I had to use this quote not only for the school year, but for always. Again I got this idea from Stephanie Nielson, and she also happened to choose the same quote as her "theme" for her kids school year. She goes all out with a feast, and decorations. She's so creative where I only go as far as encouraging my kids with words to not forget the quote, and what it means (especially for our younger children) all year long. I'm not afraid to admit that I duplicated her quote this year, but the fact that I was so unprepared, and trying to find one at the last minute was exhausting, and because this is the time when our children need to seriously stand up for themselves and defend who they are reading these words will be a strength to them. 

"Be strong. 

Live the gospel faithfully 

even if others around you don't live it at all.

 Defend your beliefs with courtesy 

and with compassion, but defend them."

This quote will be hung on our wall as they walk out the door as a reminder for them to always defend their beliefs and be strong. So after showing them the quote on the poster Jon gave them a father's blessing, hugs and kisses were exchanged and off they went to be tucked into bed. 

*****

This is when I feel lucky to live in a coast where school starts a couple of days after labor day. Kind of gives me time to recuperate, and prepare for the school year which in all honesty I wasn't quite ready...until the morning school began! I have really grown to love summer regardless of those hot, and humid days. What would summer be without them? Then again...I am looking forward to fall, and even though I was a little "off" the night before school started I felt totally "on" the next morning. I got all pumped as the kids were getting ready for school. Chelsea laid out her clothes the night before, and was asking Noah (out of all people) to help her choose which outfit she should wear for Friday. 

I honestly can't believe Lexie is in high school. Didn't I just have this girl graduate last year?? I remember when we first moved to Jersey Lexie was in the third grade. Third! How did that happen?? She was so laid back that morning. I woke up in a panic at 6:15 in the morning shouting, "Lexie, are you awake?"  Jon told me that she was awake and in the bathroom. I should have known. One thing about her is that she doesn't have a hard time waking up on her own during the school year. She's so easy going, accepts what's ahead for her, and although she was excited for school admitted to me that she was a tad bit nervous. Then when she came home from school she was all smiles (just as she is in this picture) because she met some really cool kids in her class, and was sweaty-tired due to having tennis practice and pep band afterwards. 

One thing for sure is that I'm super excited to have Noah staying home with me for one more year. I now this year is going to fly by like a leer jet, and I promised him that we are going to do fun things together,  go to various parks, and play lots of tennis. He has grown to have a love for tennis, so when the girls leave we are going to have ourselves a couple of matches a week. I am excited to teach him new things, and even though I'm not a master at tennis, or artsy, and super crafty we are going to learn together, and explore. I pinned all these things on pinterest for us to do,  and so this year I have made it a goal to accomplish some of them. It'll be like having our own little private preschool in our home, and prepare him to become this super smart kid when he starts kindergarten next year. So happy that I'm not sending him off to "work" so soon. 

And he looks pretty content. 

As far as Sierra goes it did feel a bit weird not having her here with her sibs taking photos but we sure do miss her. She is working hard, and taking a break off of school this semester, and will return in the Spring.  We hope she'll finally make a trip out here in the fall, and/or Christmas break! 

More back to school posts can be found here, here, here, here, and here. I promise they're not boring to read! 

**And a special thanks to Lexie for her zentangle skills in making these signs for her sibs the night before school began! 

Happy weekend, and hope you're kids enjoyed their first day/week of school! 

a back to school letter.

Six days have passed since school began and from the looks on your faces when y'all came home I saw all the goodness that it brought. 

Chelsea, 

I loved when you came home all excited with a huge smile telling me how much you love your teacher already, and how happy you are that you stayed in Jersey so that you can see some of your friends that were in last years class. You are at an age where it wouldn't have mattered where your 3rd grade year began, but deep down I know you were excited to stay.

Lexie, 

I know it's a bit of a shock that we're still here because I know you were just as anxious to move  as I was (even though we shouldn't be.) To begin another chapter in our life of making new friends in a new town, and different ward in the church. I know how much you loved the area we looked at in Connecticut and how excited you were to have met some of the young women in the church up there. I know how much you loved the school you would have been attending, and the fact that we'd be closer to Boston so that you we could constantly take drives through Harvard University, and explore more history there. But as you know life throws us these challenges, and The Lord is keeping us here in Jersey for a reason. 

On a good note all of your classmates at school were delighted to see you on your first day!! Funny how some of them thought you lived in Connecticut and then moved back within two months. Mr. Nichols sure is a funny guy to have teased them that way, and I could tell that he is ecstatic that you are still here to give more action to the band, and to finish the year off with a bang. Your name will be on that plaque, and you will be known for the goodness that you shared! You'll leave some legacy girl!

People in our community love you both so much, and I'm sure the teachers are so happy to have the Jorgensen girls still lingering around to brighten their days. 

*****

Little Noah,

You are not so little anymore. You were so looking forward to carrying your backpack, and walking to the bus stop with your sisters to attend preschool, but luckily you don't turn four until November which means I have you all to myself for the rest of the year! You still get to walk with us to see Chelsea off at the bus stop, and your turn for that will be here before we know it! I am going to enjoy every minute with you each day, and promise that I will do my best to make them fun for you! You'll be spoiled wearing your p.j.'s and hunter boots until noon (unless you'd rather go to the park earlier.) 

I am so happy that all of you had a wonderful first week at school and that there were no frowns, tears, or complaints of any kind. You two are strong like your older sister, and are going to do great just like she did. 

Remember to just be yourself, don't ever forget where you come from, and stay strong in keeping your standards high. People love you for who you are. You all have friends who respect and love everything that you are, and in what you believe in. 

Have a fabulous school year, and enjoy your last year of middle school Lexie. 

Chelsea...keep giving that smile to the teachers to brighten their day. You are magnificent! 

Noah...don't drive me crazy, and keep me sane because boy...you are so much fun to hang around with! 

xo, 

Mom

The night before school began.

After reading this post I was inspired to start a new tradition with the kids by choosing a 'back to school" quote with inspiring words that will help them spiritually thought the school year. I wish I would have thought of this tradition thirteen years ago, but better to start it late than never!

 I am grateful to start this tradition with our kids, and although Sierra will be in college next year we are going to strive to carry this tradition each year! So this is the quote that I chose for our family theme this year:

"The spirit is pure, 
and under the special control & influence of the Lord."
~Brigham Young

Last night Jon also said the most beautiful blessings to our girls, and this is one reason why I love being a member of this church. 

One thing we do as a family is have discussions about how to deal with certain situations. Because each child has their own individuality, and personality the advice that was given to comfort them is always different. As we were sitting down last night preparing for school, I really enjoyed the words of comfort that my better half advised them.... 

He mentioned to Chelsea that she should be wise in the friends she chooses, and to not judge them, but know the good side of them.

The advice he gave to Alexandra was that he hopes she will enjoy the companionship of her friends and to know that she is a daughter of Heavenly father who loves her very much and that we are pleased with all that she's accomplished thus far, and to continue to keep it up.

With Sierra being the oldest we really had a longer discussion, and the words that her dad said to her warmed my heart. 

His advice to her was to be mindful of others as she is going to be teaching the freshmen about morals. He also said for her to always have the courage to stand up in what she believes in and that as she teaches others in school that she will not be a wallflower, but a voice of reckoning and reason, and hopes that others will understand the truths that come from her heart.

Yeah...my better half gives really great advice, and the blessings that were given to them were so beautiful! 

The girls all came home from school with smiles on their faces and a lot of papers for us to fill out. It's always the parents that have homework the first day of school...not the kids. 

I'm so grateful for the tradition we have in giving a Father's blessing to our girls, and for the advice that was given to them. It keeps them grounded , and truly brings them comfort that'll last all year long!

Hershey park...last trip of the school year.

Last week the Chorale of Highland high had their well deserved Hershey Park trip, and I can see from the photo above that Sierra had a blast! She loves Cholcolate, and this is the perfect place to be to get it, and eat it!

Every year the chorale takes a trip to Hershey Park to show off their talent with their voices. They all have beautiful voices, and sing so well. I was so pleased with their performance when they had their spring concert last month.

I am glad that Sierra had fun with her high school buddies, and taking in every last bit of her junior year. This is one extra curricular activity where they represent their school with finesse because of their talent. There are a few seniors who are involved who will be graduating this month, and a few softies (sophomores) as well. Next year Sierra will be a senior, and hopes to continue to be part of the Chorale, and go to Hershey park once more.

Although school ends tomorrow it's so nice to have something to look forward to for the next school year. Sierra is excited, and hopes to be part of the chorale next year. They audition every year, but I know she already has her foot in the door. Just listen to her sing this song from winter concert last year.
 Ms. Kolody should be proud, and it looks like these kids had a great year!

Highland Chorale 2012

Back to school with a blessing

One thing my husband looks forward to on the eve before school resumes is giving all of the girls a fathers blessing. I am truly grateful that my husband is worthy enough to perform this ordinance. It gives them the strength to do what is right and to strive to do their very best throughout the school year. It brings me great comfort to know that through this blessing they will feel peace and comfort as well. He has been doing it for 13 years now, and it has become a wonderful and spiritual tradition.

The girls were so excited for school this morning. Now that Sierra is a junior in high school she looks forward to helping all the underclassmen with any help they need. She was a little nervous about having all AP and honors classes this year, but she is ready and feels prepared to have a great year!

Alexandra was super excited to no longer be in elementary school. 

She looks forward to what middle school has to bring, and she is ready!

Chelsea is such a cutie.

 She was the first one up, made her own lunch, and picked out her clothes. She actually asked me her opinion as to what to wear and I agreed with the outfit she chose. I did tell her that school is all about learning. Although it is nice to look presentable and clean when attending school, it's not a fashion show! 

She is so ready for first grade!

Our Noah...what would I do without you! Although you have two more years until you start pre-school, I can see that you want to follow your sisters, get dressed, and do the things they are doing. I know the years will fly by (I really don't want them to), and before you know it you will be reading on your own, writing your own name, and playing rugby. 

Don't worry buddy...it'll happen sooner than we think! 

 You are my happy little boy!

I have you all to myself for seven hours!

I do look forward to all the one on one time we will have together. I can tell you're happy that your going to have all the house to yourself, because here you are doing your little happy dance.

It's going to be a great year!!