Thomas, Jerlyn & Hayden Murphy
Sunday, December 28, 2014
The day after
I love Christmas and all of the parties, family get togethers, all of the love shared and memories made.
Sometimes I must dearly pay for the joy and excitement and outings. Such was the case on Christmas night and December 26th and 27th.
My Christmas evening was spent in bed battling seizures. Luckily, they held off as long as possible and came right before dinner and the missionaries. The rest of the evening I battled the effects of a huge seizure. The night brought more seizures, passing out, collapsing and oh the horrible nerve shocking pain. I admit. I over did it. But it was so worth it. I was able to experience so much joy.
Dec 26th brought the worst of it. I experienced seven seizures, all with lights and dots, burning smells and metallic tastes in my mouth. I even vomitted and collapsed on the way to the bathroom. Luckily Thomas was home from work and Hayden was in the room and could get him to help me by administering a priesthood blessing immediately. The blessing commanded my body to start working again and to stop choking. Thomas was able to help me back to bed. The pain was intense and the health problems severe.
I spent the day counting my blessings that the major health issues held off until most of the festivities were done. I know there was a cloud of protection around me as I went thru the days before and Christmas day. I could feel my Savior shielding me and protecting me from my own disease. That was one of my favorite and most cherished gifts. I was given almost 48 hours of freedom and relief from my disease. What a truly remarkable and loving gift.
My illness continues in its own way. I have learned to battle it and live with the effects of it better. The Savior lovingly gives me moments of relief. I can feel the words, "Come unto me all ye that are heavy laden and I will give thee rest. For my yoke is easy and my burdens light." I feel these words. The Savior can make the weight of our burdens lighter. He doesn't take them away but He picks up the yoke and helps carry it for us. He takes on the weight leaving my portion much easier to carry.
Hard trials come, illnesses can plague our mortal bodies, we are susceptible to all manor of diseases, aches, pains, trials, heartaches, problems and illnesses. But, we do not walk these trials and hard times alone. Our Savior lovingly stands ready to help, ready to help carry the burden so it is not so heavy, and that we can be surrounded in His love. I am grateful He loves me and is concerned about me. He eases my pains when I can no longer bear the intensity. He eases my suffering. He calms my troubled heart. He brings peace to a world filled with uncertainty, struggles and heartache. His peace and love can conquer all. He stands waiting. He wants to answer our prayers, help us fulfill our dreams, and discover the divinity inside us. It is up to us to ask for His help, His guidance, His comfort and His love.
Sometimes I must dearly pay for the joy and excitement and outings. Such was the case on Christmas night and December 26th and 27th.
My Christmas evening was spent in bed battling seizures. Luckily, they held off as long as possible and came right before dinner and the missionaries. The rest of the evening I battled the effects of a huge seizure. The night brought more seizures, passing out, collapsing and oh the horrible nerve shocking pain. I admit. I over did it. But it was so worth it. I was able to experience so much joy.
Dec 26th brought the worst of it. I experienced seven seizures, all with lights and dots, burning smells and metallic tastes in my mouth. I even vomitted and collapsed on the way to the bathroom. Luckily Thomas was home from work and Hayden was in the room and could get him to help me by administering a priesthood blessing immediately. The blessing commanded my body to start working again and to stop choking. Thomas was able to help me back to bed. The pain was intense and the health problems severe.
I spent the day counting my blessings that the major health issues held off until most of the festivities were done. I know there was a cloud of protection around me as I went thru the days before and Christmas day. I could feel my Savior shielding me and protecting me from my own disease. That was one of my favorite and most cherished gifts. I was given almost 48 hours of freedom and relief from my disease. What a truly remarkable and loving gift.
My illness continues in its own way. I have learned to battle it and live with the effects of it better. The Savior lovingly gives me moments of relief. I can feel the words, "Come unto me all ye that are heavy laden and I will give thee rest. For my yoke is easy and my burdens light." I feel these words. The Savior can make the weight of our burdens lighter. He doesn't take them away but He picks up the yoke and helps carry it for us. He takes on the weight leaving my portion much easier to carry.
Hard trials come, illnesses can plague our mortal bodies, we are susceptible to all manor of diseases, aches, pains, trials, heartaches, problems and illnesses. But, we do not walk these trials and hard times alone. Our Savior lovingly stands ready to help, ready to help carry the burden so it is not so heavy, and that we can be surrounded in His love. I am grateful He loves me and is concerned about me. He eases my pains when I can no longer bear the intensity. He eases my suffering. He calms my troubled heart. He brings peace to a world filled with uncertainty, struggles and heartache. His peace and love can conquer all. He stands waiting. He wants to answer our prayers, help us fulfill our dreams, and discover the divinity inside us. It is up to us to ask for His help, His guidance, His comfort and His love.
The Marvel Experience
Thomas and Hayden went to the Marvel Experience yesterday. They loved it. Although they had a hard time explaining it and said it had to be experienced. It was an interactive event where they were recruited as the newest Shield field agents. They went thru training in a virtual reality. They were transported into events and were able to wear the iron man suit in an augmented reality. There were 4D rides and experiences. The animation and technology was great. They were able to experience the Marvel world and join forces with Shield.
Hayden and Thomas love the Marvel world watching Agents of Shield weekly and Flash when new episodes are loaded on Hulu or Netflix. Some of his favorite movies are Avengers, Captain America, Spiderman, Hulk, and the list goes on. So he was definitely in his element as he was able to view some of the sets and props from each of the films. The top were the Iron Man suits.
I loved that they were able to spend the day together doing something they both enjoy. Hayden is growing up so fast and Thomas and I are trying to soak in as much time, love and joy as possible while he is still with us. I can't believe how fast the teenage years came upon us. In no time, we will be letting go, saying goodbye and sending him on a mission.
Hayden and Thomas love the Marvel world watching Agents of Shield weekly and Flash when new episodes are loaded on Hulu or Netflix. Some of his favorite movies are Avengers, Captain America, Spiderman, Hulk, and the list goes on. So he was definitely in his element as he was able to view some of the sets and props from each of the films. The top were the Iron Man suits.
I loved that they were able to spend the day together doing something they both enjoy. Hayden is growing up so fast and Thomas and I are trying to soak in as much time, love and joy as possible while he is still with us. I can't believe how fast the teenage years came upon us. In no time, we will be letting go, saying goodbye and sending him on a mission.
So for now, we are going to take every chance we get to experience life with him. This was definitely a wonderful gift for my guys. They loved the experience and loved spending a day together. Perfect gift for my perfect guys. Thanks Grandpa/Dad.
When we look back on life, the precious moments become lasting memories. Those memories keep us going thru the rough times. I know this will be a day they look back on and remember fondly.
Christmas at Grandpa's house
My dad had a dream. In it, all of my siblings were at JD's house for Ashlyn's baby blessing and Tanner's baptism. Me and Thomas, Josh and Steph, Jake and Rosie and Jodi and Troy will go with Dad and Bonnie to JD and Cassie's house. I'm so excited to hold my sweet niece, see my nephews and my brother and his sweet wife.
My Dad and Bonnie loved their gifts of their own healing and pain salve, a gift of gold, frankincense sugar scrub, myrrh bath salts and a timeline book of Mormonism. I know that book will come in handy for their church callings and family home evening nights with the Bair's.
I am grateful for a loving dad that tries so hard to bring the family closer together with family memories and joy. He is a good man filled with a generous and loving heart. He loves his family and cherishes them. He finds joy in bringing smiles on his loved ones faces. He didn't disappoint. I loved watching the smiles stretch across Thomas and Hayden's faces when receiving the Marvel experience and the joy in my heart when I knew all of my siblings get to be together.
I am grateful for a loving dad that tries so hard to bring the family closer together with family memories and joy. He is a good man filled with a generous and loving heart. He loves his family and cherishes them. He finds joy in bringing smiles on his loved ones faces. He didn't disappoint. I loved watching the smiles stretch across Thomas and Hayden's faces when receiving the Marvel experience and the joy in my heart when I knew all of my siblings get to be together.
Christmas Joy
Merry Christmas from the Murphy clan!
Christmas morning was as fun and as magical, as always. Hayden awoke extra early, as did Aunt Suzi and Ann. We had to call Grandma Julie to make sure she was on her way over. I told Hayden stories of waiting for my own grandparents to drive to our home before we could open presents and it feeling like an eternity. But I have fond memories of my grandparents at our home every Christmas morning.
This year, we had Max and Maya excited about all of the hoopla. They had no idea what was going on but loved all of the people and attention so early in the morning.
Santa definitely came this year and in a big way. Hayden absolutely LOVED the two scooters left by him and was thrilled to ride them. Luckily Santa knows how to budget shop and got a killer deal on these, cleaned them up, washed them and they looked almost like new. First gift equals major score and approval. Hayden was chopping at the bit to open the rest of Santa's bounty but knew he had to patiently wait stockings to be looked at while he anticipated the gifts awaiting under the tree.
The stockings were great and Hayden was lucky Santa found some $1.99 movies and $5 video games to fill his stocking. I have never believed in a Santa as much as I have this year. He is alive and well in the generosity and good will of others. He also works for our Savior and delivers His miracles and goodness on this beautiful day.
Santa delivered and brought Hayden Infinity for Christmas, much to Hayden's delight, as he yelled, "Yeeeesss!"
When Grandma Julie showed Hayden the monster RC truck she was giving his dad for Christmas, Hayden's response was, "Are you sure you don't want that to say to Thomas and Hayden?" As apparent on Thomas' face, he absolutely loved it and I foresee hours of entertainment for Thomas and Hayden. Grandma Julie also spoiled Hayden with his dreams of beginning to build a computer. He received the coolest black and orange shell and some of the skeleton and brain pieces to begin his adventure. From here on out, Hayden is responsible to purchase all of the rest of the supplies to begin to learn how to build computers. He is so excited and can hardly wait.
And my shirt expresses my life now with my illness perfectly. It says, "I have OCD & ADD so everything has to be completely clean and orderly but only for a short time". Thomas out did himself. Definitely my life.
Hayden was a perfect gift giver this year. In fact, he made all of his gifts. He carefully planned what he would make and for whom and set to creating well loved and cherished pieces of art. Not only that, right after Santa gifts, Hayden searched the entire pile for the gift he made me. He couldn't wait to give it to me. He made me a little box with a picture of us in it. On the outside it said, "Team Mom". On the inside was a huge painted heart with a rock painted red. Oh how I love him and his sweet and loving soul. He made me such a happy mom. That boy loves his mom and is definitely on "Team Mom"!
He created beautiful picture frames for everyone. Grandma Julie was a frame painted green and black with the word Laugh attached and a picture of Hayden and the pups playing and laughing. Grandma Joyce contained a picture of the two of the baking in reds and blues and yellows. Rilla received a picture of Hayden in a purple and pink polka dot two-toned frame. While Aunt Suzi received a frame with two shades of blue representing the ocean, with yellow and orange highlights and flip flops and sand buckets. He also gave Aunt Suzi a bunch of painted rocks he collected on the Oceanside beach. They had different chinese symbols for faith, hope, love, endure to the end, and more. All gifts were loved by their receivers.
Thomas and I also handmade our gifts for others this year. I was the proud recipient of two of Thomas' custom necklaces, both unique and beautiful. He made Hayden dog tags that said, "Be awesome today". Together, we made healing and aches and pain salves for everyone, along with custom bath bombs for different ailments and headache blends.
The puppies had a wonderful Christmas, as well. They were spoiled by everyone. They loved anytime we told them it was their turn and they would put their noses in the bags and Maya even jumped in to pick the best selection. Suzi bought them new collars complete with a bowtie for Max and a bow for Maya. Both Grandmas bought new toys and treats. Santa delivered a 3 month supply of dog food and a bag of their favorite treats and Hayden spoiled them with new bones.
This year, we had Max and Maya excited about all of the hoopla. They had no idea what was going on but loved all of the people and attention so early in the morning.
Santa definitely came this year and in a big way. Hayden absolutely LOVED the two scooters left by him and was thrilled to ride them. Luckily Santa knows how to budget shop and got a killer deal on these, cleaned them up, washed them and they looked almost like new. First gift equals major score and approval. Hayden was chopping at the bit to open the rest of Santa's bounty but knew he had to patiently wait stockings to be looked at while he anticipated the gifts awaiting under the tree.
The stockings were great and Hayden was lucky Santa found some $1.99 movies and $5 video games to fill his stocking. I have never believed in a Santa as much as I have this year. He is alive and well in the generosity and good will of others. He also works for our Savior and delivers His miracles and goodness on this beautiful day.
And my shirt expresses my life now with my illness perfectly. It says, "I have OCD & ADD so everything has to be completely clean and orderly but only for a short time". Thomas out did himself. Definitely my life.
He created beautiful picture frames for everyone. Grandma Julie was a frame painted green and black with the word Laugh attached and a picture of Hayden and the pups playing and laughing. Grandma Joyce contained a picture of the two of the baking in reds and blues and yellows. Rilla received a picture of Hayden in a purple and pink polka dot two-toned frame. While Aunt Suzi received a frame with two shades of blue representing the ocean, with yellow and orange highlights and flip flops and sand buckets. He also gave Aunt Suzi a bunch of painted rocks he collected on the Oceanside beach. They had different chinese symbols for faith, hope, love, endure to the end, and more. All gifts were loved by their receivers.
Later in the day, both Grandma Joyce and Rilla came to see us. They both loved their picture frames from Hayden. We loved having them eat Christmas dinner with us and spend time with us. Hayden scored on more gifts. Rilla bought Beats and Grandma gave him a new puzzle to play together and a gift card to Barnes and Noble. Hooray for new books.
That night the missionaries came over to celebrate the beautiful Christmas Day with us. They loved their stockings and had smiles stretched across their faces. We kept it simple with tons of appetizers, goodies galore, baked potato bar and soup bar for dinner. Yummy and warm just like our hearts.
Christmas Day finished in Thomas, Hayden and I kneeling down in gratitude for a wonderful Christmas season. We recognize the greatest reason for the peace in our hearts and love we felt surrounded by because we knew we were celebrating the greatest gift ever given. Our Father in Heaven sacrificed His son, so that we could return to Him.
As we celebrated the sacred Christmas season, we are reminded of all the gifts we are so freely given. Our Savior has walked our road. He has guided us. He has blessed us. He has provided ways for us to return home to Him as well as a path to continue on here on earth. He provides in all ways. He has given us so much from the gospel of Jesus Christ to His atonement and overcoming death and sin for us. He also has provided much needed health and sustained breath as Thomas, Hayden and I have at all needed His life saving for our lives to be spared. And He lovingly makes sure that we are able to have gifts on Christmas for one another and those that we love. He then provides a blanket of peace and a comforter to wrap us in His love. We love our Savior, our older brother Jesus Christ and our Redeemer. It is for Him and because of Him that we celebrate this beautiful day and wonderful time of year. Jesus is the reason for the season and the guiding light of love and hope and peace.
Merry Christmas! May you always remember Him as we strive to do each and every day. We love our Savior and our gifts to Him are given. Written down and will be reflected on time and time again as we strive to draw closer to Him in desire, will, obedience and actions in the coming year. After all, He is the ultimate source of joy, hope, peace and love. All of the beautiful and wonderful gifts of Christmas.
Thursday, December 25, 2014
Christmas Eve with the Simonton's
My favorite night of the year is Christmas Eve. I love the anticipation of Christmas. I love being together with family. I love watching Hayden with his cousins, grandparents and aunts and uncles.
I look around and take note of all those I love and why I love them. I think,of each niece, nephew, sister, brother and my dad. I look at how they have each blessed my life for good. I feel my mom's presence as she sits with us and finds joy in each of her children and grandchildren. She reassures me of her love and it's as if she tells me the things I did good this year and reassures me I'm on track. I feel my Savior's love. I feel His presence and peace.
When Santa comes, the kids smile with joy and excitement. Even the big kids get into it. They are thrilled with their grinch gifts and love the joy of Santa bringing the first gift of Christmas. It makes them all the more excited for Santa to deliver the gifts after they sleep. The joy of Santa and all things great and wonderful.
I love looking over at my husband and son and feeling my heart almost explode with love for them both. No matter what happens in life, they love me and have my back. They bring so much joy to my life. I'm so lucky they are mine.
I love the traditions. Getting together, laughing, excitement in the eyes of all the kids, the yummy food, grinch game, the joy and sparkle when Santa comes, the anticipation of all great things. The love in the room is amazing. I love when we talk of blessings and favorite Christmas memories. I love the spirit.
I'm grateful for a sister that loves and adores me. She loves me and treats me wonderfully. Jodi is absolutely one of the most Christlike people I have ever met. Her children are like my bonus kids. I love them. I'm so grateful I get to spend such a precious day of the year with them.
My dad. He tries so hard to make us happy. Him and Bonnie always throw a fantastic party. I'm so grateful they try so hard to make such a memorable evening.
As we drive home, my heart could explode with joy and happiness and gratitude for the life I have. I love my husband. He is my rock. He is my joy. He is my reason for living. He helps me and encourages me in all I do. My son...my precious and amazing son is my world. I love his great heart. I love his smile and sparkle in his eyes. I love how good he is to the absolute core. He is as precious as they come.
On the way home, I say a silent prayer of thanks for my life. For those that I love. For those that walk this journey with me. I'm so blessed. And what a better time to feel surrounded in love than at Christmas. Merry Christmas.
Christmas Eve Breakfast
We had Christmas Eve breakfast with the Etherington's. Kneaders French toast, eggs, bacon, sausage, hash browns and lots of fun company.
We did a Christmas gift exchange. My favorite was Thomas giving Robert a snuggie. We laughed and laughed. Robert is such a great sport. Oh how he makes me laugh.
Hayden loves his cousins. Tyler played the slapping hands game with him. Hayden was laughing and soaking in every minute. Josh and Chad were spinning him in a chair, choking him, teasing him and had a great time. Hayden absolutely loves them. One of our greatest gifts this year was Etherington gang moving down the street from us. We adore them.
Hayden loves Lisa and Katie too. Lisa is his buddy. We all love them being so close. We have so much fun playing games, sitting and laughing and talking and just hanging out. So they were the perfect people to begin the Christmas festivities with. I love them tons.
Chad was spoiled. We bought him a chair for his room. Suzi got him a small fridge. She wanted to get him depends so he never would have to leave the room anymore. Too funny. We absolutely love and adore him. He is a spaz but so much fun.
Merry Christmas to those who have become to mean so much. They are family and so very loved.
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