The Simple Past Verb Tense in Context- A Piano Dream

When Jessica was (1) a little girl, she told (2) her parents that more than anything, she wanted (3) to learn how to play the piano. Her dream was (4) to become a concert pianist. 

Soon after declaring this, she started (5) taking weekly piano lessons. Jessica was (6) so determined to excel with her piano skills that she eagerly practiced (7) five days a week. In order to continually develop as a piano player, and to stay consistent with practicing, Jessica faithfully followed (8) her piano instructor's recommendations. First, she warmed-up (9) her fingers by playing scales. Then, she played (10) two songs that she knew (11) by heart. After that, Jessica worked on (12) each of her new piano songs for 10 minutes. Finally, she spent (13) five minutes (or longer) creating her own songs. 

By following this routine for each and every one of her practice sessions, Jessica soon became (14) a skilled piano player. In fact, today you can find her tickling the ivories professionally. Her dream really did (15) come true!

Practice: Do you know the simple present verb for each of the numbered and underlined simple past verbs in the story? If you do, try writing them on a piece of paper or in your notes app on your device. If you don't, see if you can find out what they are.