Chelsea Live From Carnegie Hall!

This past weekend was a wild ride with Chelsea perfuming at Carnegie Hall on Father's Day. She truly is a champ in keeping this whole month together with endless practices and last minute assignments to turn in. Word to the wise- do not procrastinate! All in all she's pretty much done and just waiting for graduation in two days! She did wonderful at Carnegie and everyone sang so beautifully. The orchestra was phenomenal and all the songs they played are something that belong on a score in a movie soundtrack! The composers were brilliant and all the singers were exquisite. Oh how in love I am with opera and all things classical! Let's not forget jazz, but that's a whole other concert!

Chelsea's Senior Night-Tennis.

 

This past Monday was senior night for chelsea and she was recognized for her accomplishments and hard work in being the best tennis player she can be. Three coaches, four tennis partners, 25 teammates, and four years of 324 tennis matches! Can’t believe this is the end of Chelsea’s high school tennis career and she ended up winning her last match! 

I have also witnessed how soooo many of the younger girls loved and looked up to her. These young women were (are) like the little sisters Chelsea never had. For Chelsea, it wasn’t always about winning, but making it a team effort and paying attention to the younger girls who needed a boost as they themselves are learning to have a love for the game. Bittersweet for sure as she’ll miss them when she graduates and as she hangs up her tennis racket for the time being.

Tennis Season- Senior Year!

Tennis season has begun for Chelsea and I couldn't be more excited! Even though the US OPEN is over I still get to watch my girl play. So far she has won a couple of matches and her serve is strong! She has improved so much in the past four years of playing in high school. It's bittersweet knowing that this is her final year playing in high school and am so excited to see her play. I hope she wins lots, but most of all I just want her to have fun with the game. 

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! 

Seminary Graduation.

If you follow me on Instagram you may have already seen these pictures posted on there, but wanted to share them on my blog as well, and to express my gratitude on how extremely proud I am not only for my second daughter to have graduated from early morning seminary,but to all the youth out there who have achieved this great accomplishment. 

A Happy Day Ahead-Graduation Announcement!

T-minus five days to graduation and we are so excited to share this big day with Lexie. We have family flying in over the weekend, and couldn't be more thrilled to see some familiar faces that I haven't seen since Noah's baptism. It's going to be a busy week which means I won't be blogging as much, but you can follow up with any future photos I will be posting on my Instagram including graduation day!

Blossoms With Lexie!

Five years ago my oldest daughter graduated from high school, and I can't believe that in one month Lexie will be graduating too! Whaaaaat! My, oh man has time flown! I've realized that time definitely goes by fast when you're busy having fun not only in life, but with your kids as well. I am so excited for Lexie, and she is soooooo ready to graduate, and start college. I'm glad I'll have a whole summer with her before she takes off so we can make more memories with her. 

An 80's Theme Promposal!

"Promposals" didn't exist back in my high school days, and if they did my prom date in my senior year sure as heck didn't do anything like this, and had he done even something close to this man, oh man maybe we would have ended the night on good terms, but that's a whole other post! 

Playing For The Drowsy Chaperone.

Well, it's Lexie's senior year, and it looks like she's following her sisters footsteps when it comes to playing with the band for her high school spring musical. As much as she wanted to be a part of the cast she, and her band director suggested she'd play with the orchestra, and although she's a tad bit nervous because of all the older, more experienced players, she's excited to be playing the piano which in her case is very rare. 

the graduating class of 2013.

This day was so surreal for me. From getting special seating on the football field to seeing Sierra walk down the track with the rest of the class waiting to be seated, to listening to all the speeches given by the principal, valedictorian, salutatorian, class president, to receiving her diploma in graduating with honors.

Although I was very excited for her graduation day to arrive this is one day that I didn't want to pass, but it did. It came too quick, and flew by way too fast for me. I can't believe these past four years just flew. Flew, flew, flew! I am so excited for her to begin a new chapter in her life. She has done really well in this school for the past four years, and everything she has learned will be taken with her as she begins college in the fall. We are extremely proud of her, and all that she has accomplished thus far in her life. She is a young woman of many talents and has so much knowledge to share with the world.

I explained to her that friends come and go, and sometimes part after graduation. Life will keep many of these kids busy, and hopefully some of them will stay in contact. She has made many friends, and mentioned that they are all keepers for life! She's fortunate that some of them are attending college nearby, and hopefully that'll make it easier to stay in touch.

with Trent, the prom king...again!

From left to right:  Matt, Erny, Eddie, Michael ( 2013 valedictorian), Tj, and Jordan.

She makes these young men look good in pictures!

two of her dearest friends: with Amber (top), and Britney (bottom)

She will never forget her friends of the future class of 2014. She will miss playing in the jazz band with these guys. Who knows, maybe they can all start up a band someday. They need to graduate first! 

It was also nice seeing an old friend, & former alumni.

She had some of the best teachers this year, and she will never forget the ones who really challenged her to be the best.

We were so happy that her grandma & grandpa (my awesome in-laws) flew all the way from Utah to witness her graduation and spend quality time with her. They are so pleased with her accomplishments, and have faith in her that she will become someone very successful. 

Speaking of successful Ms. Petite gave a wonderful speech to the entire student body, and the advice she gave them was remarkable. One of my favorite excerpts she said to these graduates was, and I quote... 

"Remember when you thought that your parents didn't know a lot, watch how incredibly smart they become over the next decade. Parents are pretty skilled at picking up on real life lessons. Continue to talk & listen to your parents. They have learned from their mistakes and will save you much stress and anxiety. They will also not charge you for their expertise, and most of the time you may even get a free meal. Set your goals high and strive to develop your skills and potential, but be careful in how you measure your success. Your success will be judged by those with whom you compete. Rather than being the best in the world try to be the best for the world."~Ms. Petite

Sierra, 

I thought those were wise words, and great advice when it comes to being challenged in this life. I pray that you will take those words to heart, and apply it in your daily life. Remember this day forever, because the only thing you'll have left are the memories. Four years of memories at Highland that taught you to be the best. 

Now...go out and conquer the world. You are here for a reason, and your unique talents will take you very far. Just remember that it is up to you to make it happen. Stick strong to your morals, and be solid in your testimony, and love for God, and His gospel. We will be rooting for you from across the bridge. 

This is the beginning of the end of your first chapter in the life of high school, and now...

Let the college days begin.

Oh wait...you still have the rest of the summer to enjoy yourself. 

Time to go to the shore! 

Love,

mom

to sierra on your graduation day.

"All who have accomplished great things have had a great aim, have fixed their gaze on a goal which was high...one which sometimes seemed impossible."

~Orison Swett Marden

I can't believe that in just a few hours you are going to graduate high school with honors. I am so proud of all your accomplishments that you have done throughout your life, and I know that it won't stop here. 

From taking your first breath when you came out of my body, to hearing your first cry. From learning how to walk, and talk saying your first words (mama & dada), and other words that include please, thank you, no (my least favorite), and my favorite phrase..."I love you mommy". 

In learning how to pray, seeing your first dance recital, and realizing that you could sight read at the age of six. Coming to terms in knowing that you have an innate talent on playing the piano when you were just six years old blew me and your dad away. From your first piano recital, and all of those huge accomplishments in between that seem small such as getting your first certificate in 1st grade for reading so many books in one month was inspiring. 

Those are amazing accomplishments girl, and I know that you are going to become someone even more amazing. I have a feeling that you will be known for your talents, and for being your beautiful self.  

Be strong. 

There will be times when "life" will want to take you on a downward spiral, and ruin your beliefs in accomplishing your goals. Don't ever lower your standards for anyone. Adversity will want to take over as the main source in your everyday living, and want to destroy all that is good. Don't let it. I pray that you will never allow the world to pull you down, but at times when you feel that it is take deep breaths, ponder, and kneel to God in prayer. And know that I will be praying for you, and with you from afar in spirit. 

You shine like the stars on a crisp, clear night, and your smile is as bright as the sun. Keep shining, and smiling, and your dreams will take you to places you have never been.  

Believe that! 

I love you girlie, and congratulations on a job well done! 

xo-mama

seminary graduation & a personal memory.

For four years these kids woke up at 5am (or earlier) to attend early morning seminary to study  these four wonderful books. I'm sure the past four years were trying for them waking up on their own to study the word of God, but they persevered, and made it! 

It takes a lot of courage and desire to get motivated to attend early morning seminary. Most areas cross the world have it during school, and some have home study meaning they have it once a week. 

I commend these kids because of all the extracurricular activities, including jobs they had while waking up at an ungodly hour to study the word of God. 

Seeing my daughters commitment in taking responsibility to wake up on her own...yes, on her own (sometimes she'd have to wake her dad up when he used to teach) proved to me that she enjoyed it. Even though she'd grow tired as the year would wind down, she was strong, and knew that this is what helped her throughout her days, and that attending seminary was for her own good. I'm sure it's okay to speak for the rest of the kids as well. 

In Sierra's final year of seminary having a different teacher besides her dad taught her a lot. She learned that everyone has their own way of teaching, and unique spirituality. She really enjoyed Sister Neiman's method of teaching, and how she expressed herself with her testimony of the Savior, and His teachings.

Mingling is Sierra's favorite thing to do among friends, and to catch up with those whom she hadn't seen a while. 

I'm so glad Sierra had a few minutes to catch up on life with Dan, and to exchange one last hug. He'll be entering the MTC today to prepare for his two year mission in Brazil. We are so happy, and excited for him.

Until we meet again Elder Poaletti.  

*****

Now...a new chapter will soon begin for all you wonderful youth. 

Once you graduate high school, and attend various universities in the fall you will have the opportunity to attend the Institute of Religion which will further your knowledge, and help you gain spiritual growth as you continue to study the scriptures.

I remember when I joined the church a few of the young adults whom I call my friends today told me about a program that would be beneficial throughout my life as a young adult. I was told that these classes would help me become more familiar with the scriptures, strengthen my testimony, and that it would be fun.

And it was. 

Since I was 20 when I joined, and didn't have seminary growing up I thought that this would be something that would help me grow spiritually as well as learning more about the doctrine. I have to admit I also enjoyed going to institute because of the friends I made.

Coming from a nonmember family, and not having any LDS friends throughout my youth, or spiritual knowledge growing up, I really enjoyed being a part of a group whom I had a lot in common with. The college I attended was not Mormon territory, and so going to these classes helped me in remembering to keep my covenants in striving to live as Christ would have me. It didn't matter if there were only ten of us that attended...we had fun, and I learned so much!  


There were even nonmembers that would come, and I believe that was when my passion in sharing the gospel grew strongly, and I wasn't even afraid to share. Here I am this brand new member who didn't know squat about the scriptures (still learning), and I'm sharing this wonderful book with them. Pandora's box, in selflessly sharing the ultimate key that brought happiness to my life was opened on that day, and I was filled by the spirit to share, share, share!  

And I don't think it'll ever be closed.

It helped me throughout my daily struggles whether at home or at school. It took my mind off of any negativity that may be going through my mind because I had a lot of it back then. 

Looking back I don't see how I would of handled any dilemma had I not attended institute for that one semester. Moving to Utah soon after prepared me for what was next. Dating, major callings, marriage, temple covenants (look out...it's awesome!) kids, moving, etc. I honestly don't think I would have survived any trial in between all those duties had I not indulged myself in the holy scriptures.

I will always look back at those memories with fondness, gratefulness, and most of all love. Even though I didn't attend early morning seminary I think I got a taste of what it felt like to be taught by great teachers, and to be spiritually fed while having fun. Of course I didn't wake up at 5am everyday for four years to get the full effect. 

Regardless...I know that y'all had fun throughout those four years, and one day I guarantee that you will pass on your seminary experiences (hmm, hmm...marshmallow fight) to your posterity in telling them that it was bittersweet. 

Bitter because of those early hours of waking up, but sweet because of the love that you felt from The Lord, your teacher, your peers, and most of all the blessings you received while attending. 

C'mon guys...you know it was fun while it lasted. Look...Sierra is laughing instead of just smiling! OK...maybe she's happy because she doesn't have to wake up at 5am anymore!

Seriously, congratulations to you all, and good luck as you begin another chapter in your life!

COLLEGE! 

 I really do love y'all! Really, I do.

xo-
mama Jorgensen (because at times I treated you like a mom)

music appreciation awards banquet.

Numerous awards were given tonight at the music appreciate awards banquet. Some of the students who are in choir, chorale, drum line, and jazz band were presented with plaques, patches, certificates, trophies, and five scholarships were picked out of a drawing. 

Sierra wasn't lucky this time, but she did get various awards. She's one heck of a pianist, and I'm so grateful for all the recognition she received tonight.

Ms. Kolody is her choir teacher and she represented them with a hand shake, and a photo. 

Mr. Tumminia who is her band teacher represented her with the Louis Armstrong Award. This award is a recognition of outstanding achievements in the field of jazz as demonstrated through superior musicianship, character, and individual creativity. She certainly does fit all those attributes! 

She was even given this cute, gold little plaque with Louis Armstrong on it.

She was the only one that was given this award, and after all the singing and playing at all those jazz competitions I'd say she deserved it. Receiving this award was a happy ending to her senior year in being a part of the Highland Regional jazz band.

We are so proud of you Sierra!  

Yup...I'd say she is giddy with happiness, grateful for her accomplishments, and like a small child wanted to take home some balloons! 

Can you imagine how she'll be at graduation? I can hardly wait!

township day, a scholarship, & fun in the sun.

We survived yet another hot day in the sun at Gloucester township days this past Saturday where Sierra, and members of the high school choir came to provide entertainment to the community. It's tradition here in this township for the schools in the surrounding area to participate, and share their talent. 

Alexandra played again with her middle school band, and the Highland high school choir came and sang the same songs they sang at the spring concert. One of the songs they sang was a medley by Queen. They did a good job on that one, and you can see them sing that here. (you know what to do with the links :-)

There were also two special musical numbers sung by two wonderful ladies...one being my daughter Sierra. These two sang a duet last year too.

Sierra and Takiyah were unbelievable and they nailed those high notes. I especially loved it when they sang "For Good". This song was perfect even for Sierra. She has made so many friends in the past five years, and with this being her senior year it was a perfect song to end the day with. She sang with her heart, and I know that others have been touched by her loving spirit.

Another song they sang was "Just Give me a Reason". There was a little bit of technical difficulty in the beginning with Sierra's microphone, but they both sang that song really well. I was looking at the audience as they were singing, and they literally couldn't take their eyes off of them! 

Their applause proved all too well that they loved their performance. Made my heart happy! 

the happy crowd 

After their performances Sierra wanted to take Chelsea & Noah off my hands for a few hours. I obliged, but only for a little while because Noah was getting a little cranky. I did bring his hat this time, and he seemed to do fine without me for a couple of hours. I later returned just in time as they were going to announce the scholarship winners.

The scholarships were given by the Gloucester Township committee. We are so excited that she was one of the chosen recipients, and are so proud of her receiving it. This will help her out so much throughout college.  

Since Jon was at work I recorded a little bit of the ceremony as well as the treasurer explaining the history of how these scholarships came about. Apparently they have been giving these out for many years. You can skip to the part where she receives the scholarship at 3:38.

You can spot Sierra a mile away. She's the one that's always smiling! 

The Lord has certainly blessed our family with the things we are in need of, and I'd have to say our cup runneth over with blessings when it comes to Sierra. She has been accepted to one of the best Art schools in the country, and has received a few scholarships. It's bittersweet for her senior year to be over, but she is excited to go to college in the fall to learn, play endless music, and "grow up" some more! 

Senior Prom '13

The day started with an early dismissal from high school, and a makeup appointment at the Estee Lauder counter. We had about four hours to spare before her date was to pick her up. Luckily Sierra has beautiful skin, and isn't picky when it comes to makeup. Erin did a wonderful job with her makeup, and was so thorough in the colors she chose for Sierra.  

Time flew by quickly, and we had about two hours to do her hair. Luckily her good friend Britney came to the rescue with that talent of hers in doing braids, and she did a "greek goddess" braid on her hair. Thanks Brit!  

Sierra had been waiting for this moment since last year. She missed her junior prom because of jazz band competitions, but was determined to go stag this year even if she didn't have a date. Luckily she got asked to go with Trent who has been a good friend of hers for the past four years. 

What a patient guy. Sierra had a hard time pinning on his boutonniere, (and so did I) that we had Trent's  grandma (love her) pin it, and she pinned it to perfection!

He is quite a catch, and was so gentlemanly towards her. He treated her like a princess the whole time we were with them. I was impressed with his actions, and I can tell that he was giddy to be going to prom with her. See Sierra...chivalry is not dead.

We went with them to the high school where they have what you call "promenade" before the dance. This is where the king and queen get chosen. Anyone who is running for king and queen walk down the runway to show off how good looking they are! The teachers are the judges, and all the candidates looked really beautiful.

Sierra and Trent made quite an entrance as they walked down the runway looking all fly and all.

We didn't get to find out who won until they got home. The king and queen were announced at the dance which was held at the Aloft.

And guess who was crowned prom king...

Trent.

Even though Sierra wasn't crowned queen she still had fun. Hey...she was the prom king's date, and that is better than being a queen. (I still think she should have won though!) I mean...hello...just look at that gorgeous smile!

"These two are truly two of the nicest people I've ever met."~Mrs. Anita Rowland

I agree Mrs. Rowland...I agree.

And this is one night that will be etched in Sierra's heart forever!