Wednesday, August 30, 2006

MOMMA DIDN'T RAISE NO FOOL ! ! !

When the man at the auto repair shop told me that it would

cost $1400 to fix my car's air conditioning,

I just laughed at him and said, "I can

fix it myself for a whole lot less than that!"

MY MOMMA DIDN'T RAISE NO FOOL !!!!!!!

Tuesday, August 29, 2006

Prep Football Wolverine Conference Picks 8/25/06

Comstock's Brandon Rickstad (32) eludes Vicksburg defenders Chris Harger, left, Michael Hillenbrand, and Zach Harper for a 97-yard touchdown run on a kickoff return in the first quarter Friday night at Comstock. Comstock won, 43-20.


This week I was 5 for 5 with my Wolverine Conference Prep Football picks. I am so excited that this season has started. My wife and I went to the Otsego vs Richland Gull Lake game with some friends of ours. The weather was nice although Gull Lake gave Otsego another loss to add to their 0-9 record last season. Otsego has a good defense they just need help with the Offense and give QB Devon Hicks some time to throw the ball. We will return to the Dawg Pound again next week to watch my Alumni Comstock Colts take on the Otsego Bulldogs. Can you guess my prediction on this game?

COMSTOCK 43 vs Vicksburg 20

Dowagiac 46 vs SOUTH HAVEN 21

PAW PAW 7 vs Plainwell 3

Richland Gull Lake 28 vs OTSEGO 0

THREE RIVERS 21 vs Allegan 6

HOME teams are in CAPS and BOLD ! ! !

Monday, August 28, 2006

Are "YOU" still praying for CHEYENNE NOEL CAINCROSS???



Cheyenne is only 11 days from her 100 day testing results.Today the doctor will draw blood to send off to check her enzyme levels, and donor cells. AC(Cheyenne's Father) says there are only two numbers you need to remember, 100% and 100%. Cheyenne needs those numbers for her donor cells and enzyme levels. This is the big test to see whether or not she has beaten Sandhoffs. Also please be in prayer for Cheyenne as she has other testing done to see if there is any delay, or any other affects she may have had from the disease. The Lord has worked miracles thus far and we all should know He has even more in store for sweet baby Cheyenne. I urge you to PLEASE.....PLEASE......PLEASE Keep praying for the Caincross Family and most importantly Baby Cheyenne.... she has been a trooper and she needs all the prayer she can get.... REMEMBER THE POWER OF PRAYER.

Sunday, August 27, 2006

"24" Twenty-Four Season 4


Every year for Christmas or our Anniversary Tamara's parents buys us a together gift. The past 3 years they bought us the complete DVD set of season 1, 2 & 3 of the T.V. series "24". Just yesterday we couldn't wait and decided to rent the first two disc of season 4.....WOW what a exciting supsense filled dramatic season.

Twenty-Four is basically about a place called CTU (Counter Terrorist Unit) that works on preventing any Terrorist activity on US soil. The leading actor is Keifer Sutherland a.k.a Jack Bauer..... This show is very action packed and leaves you sitting on the edge of your seat. Each season takes place over a 24 hour period with each episode lasting one hour. If you haven't watched this show yet.... I urge you to do so with pre-caution because, I garuntee that you will become ADDICTED ! ! ! This is a must see T.V. Show and has become one of our all-times favorites......

P.S. Mom and Dad in Wisconsin...... you still can add season 4 to our wish list for Christmas or Anniversary..... oh and you can add season 5 and any more of the seasons that come out in the future... hint....hint.

Friday, August 25, 2006

CAN YOU PARK THIS CAR ? ? ?




Use the 4 arrows on your keyboard, and
The space bar for brake. Ya have to park the car in the same spot it is already in but front end first instead. Took me about 5 tries.

This is addictive :-) This looks easy but it's not.

  • Park this car!
  • <-----Click on this link

    Thursday, August 24, 2006

    ROCKY "SIX"



    Can you believe that Sylvester Stallone is going to give the world yet another Rocky movie. I have always been a big fan of Rocky over the past decade. Yet, I have to admit that when
    Rocky V hit the theatre I thought enough was enough and that Sylvester Stallone exhausted his
    possibilities with this movie. I felt that he was pulling from every string to keep this movie sequal going. Just when you thought Rocky was over........it's not! Set to Release in December of 2006 Stallone brings him self back into the motion picture with sixth episode of "ROCKY"! I hope this works out for the best of his interest but, personally I think he should have retired those gloves back in Russia in Rocky IV. I have added the Movie description and information below. All I have to say is Where is Adrian????????????????????


    Former heavyweight champion Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone) steps out of retirement and back into the ring, pitting himself against a new rival decades after his initial glory. When a computer simulated boxing match declares Rocky Balboa the victor over current champion Mason "The Line" Dixon, the legendary fighter's passion and spirit are reignited. But when his desire to fight in small, regional competitions is trumped by promoters calling for a rematch of the cyber-fight, Balboa must weigh the mental and physical risks of a high profile exhibition match against his need to be in the ring.

    Also Known As: Rocky 6
    Rocky VI (MGM)

    Production Status: In Production/Awaiting Release

    Genres: Action/Adventure, Drama, Sequel and Sports

    Release Date: December 22nd, 2006 (wide)

    MPAA Rating: PG for boxing violence and some language.



    Wednesday, August 23, 2006

    Go Comstock ! ! !




    League: Wolverine Conference

    Nickname: Colts (COMSTOCK)

    School colors: Blue & White

    2006 " FOOTBALL "Schedule



    8/25/2006 7:00 PM ( H ) * Vicksburg

    8/31/2006 7:00 PM ( A ) * Otsego

    9/8/2006 7:00 PM ( H ) * Allegan

    9/15/2006 7:00 PM ( A ) * Paw Paw

    9/22/2006 7:00 PM ( H ) * Dowagiac

    9/29/2006 7:00 PM ( A ) * South Haven

    10/6/2006 7:00 PM ( H ) * Plainwell

    10/13/2006 7:00 PM ( A ) * Three Rivers

    10/20/2006 7:00 PM ( H ) * Richland Gull Lake

    * denotes league contest

    Tuesday, August 22, 2006

    THE "PENNY"



    You always hear the usual stories of pennies on the sidewalk being good luck,
    gifts from angels, etc.

    This is the first time I've ever heard this twist on the story. Gives you
    something to think about.

    Several years ago, a friend of mine and her husband were invited to spend the
    weekend at the husband's employer's home. My friend, Arlene, was nervous about
    the weekend.

    The boss was very wealthy, with a fine home on the waterway, and cars costing
    more than her house.

    The first day and evening went well, and Arlene was delighted to have this rare
    glimpse into how the very wealthy live.

    The husband's employer was quite generous as a host, and took them to the finest
    restaurants. Arlene knew she would never have the opportunity to indulge in this
    kind of extravagance again, so she was enjoying herself immensely!

    As the three of them were about to enter an exclusive restaurant that evening,
    the boss was walking slightly ahead of Arlene and her husband. He stopped
    suddenly, looking down on the pavement for a long, silent moment.
    Arlene wondered if she was supposed to pass him. There was nothing on the ground
    except a single darkened penny that someone had dropped, and a few cigarette
    butts.

    Still silent, the man reached down and picked up the penny He held it up and
    smiled, then put it in his pocket as if he had found a great treasure! How
    absurd! What need did this man have for a single penny? Why would he even take
    the time to stop and pick it up?

    Throughout dinner, the entire scene nagged at her.

    Finally, she could stand it no longer!

    She causally mentioned that her daughter once had a coin collection, and asked
    if the penny he had found had been of some value.

    A smile crept across the man's face as he reached into his pocket for the penny
    and held it out for her to see. She had seen many pennies before! What was the
    point of this?

    "Look at it." He said.

    "Read what it says."

    She read the words "United States of America."

    "No, not that; read further."

    "One cent?"

    "No, keep reading."

    "In God we Trust?"

    "Yes!"

    "And?"

    "And if I trust in God, the name of God is holy, even on a coin. Whenever I find
    a coin I see that inscription. It is written on every single United States coin,
    but we never seem to notice it!

    God drops a message right in front of me telling me to trust Him? Who am I to
    pass it by? When I see a coin, I pray, I stop to see if my trust IS still in God
    at that moment. I pick the coin up as a response to God; that I do trust in Him.

    For a short time, at least, I cherish it as if it were gold. I think it is God's
    way of starting a conversation with me.

    Lucky for me, God is patient and pennies are plentiful!
    When I was out shopping today, I found a penny on the sidewalk. I stopped and
    picked it up, and realized that I had been worrying and fretting in my mind
    about things I cannot change.

    I read the words, "In God We Trust," and had to laugh. Yes, God, I get the
    message.

    It seems that I have been finding an inordinate number of pennies in the last
    few months, but then, pennies are plentiful!

    And, God is patient..

    Monday, August 21, 2006

    Cheyenne Update 8/21/06



    Here is the update on Cheyenne Noel Caincross:

    Cheyenne is doing great. It seems she was having a withdrawal from her clonidine patch. Which is her blood pressure medicine. Once that was under control she started feeling much better. The plan is for her to go home tomorrow. And SLOWLY be taken off her clonidine patch! We praise the Lord for stepping when doctors couldn't understand. We truly do have a greater Physician. Thank you for all your faithful prayers, and please continue to pray for our sweet Cheyenne. She will still be having all her 100 day testing very soon.


    PLEASE KEEP HER IN YOUR PRAYERS.......

    Saturday, August 19, 2006

    "SURPRISE"


    Last night on my way home from work,I made my usual cell phone call to my wife.... I told her I was on my way home and she was quick to detour me to stop at the store on the way home... So being the nice Husband I am her request was done. When I arrived home and walked in the house I was "SURPRISED" by my wife, son, parents, and some very good friends to celebrate a be-lated 30th Birthday! It was nice to sit around and fellowship and have a wonderful meal (walking Taco's) my favorite, with some yummy cake to top it off. I then was given some wonderful gag gifts as you can see them in the photo above. Lets just say the "Koala Bear" is a joke in itself. You will have to ask me about it sometime......(funny story). I had a great time and never expected this Surprise Party for one second. Good Work Sweetie..... I can honestly say you pulled this one off hook......line.......and sinker ! ! I LOVE YOU ! !

    Thanks Everyone,

    Brian Cooper

    Friday, August 18, 2006

    MICHIGAN -vs- WISCONSIN FOOTBALL





    Today I recieved a phone call and was able to get my hands on 2 Football Tickets for the University of Michigan Wolverines -vs- University of Wisconsin Badgers game. The game will be hosted at "THE BIG HOUSE" in Ann Arbor, MI on September 23rd. This is going to be a great day.... seeing how I am from Michigan and My wife is from Wisconsin. We are a house that is divided when it comes to college football. Be sure to stay tuned............ I will bring you all the news and updates from this special and exciting day.......To Be Continued..........................

    Urgent Prayer Request for Cheyenne Caincross


    I was just looking at the website for Cheyenne this morning and read the update for baby Cheyenne. I posted the news below and ask please for everyone to take a moment out of their day and remember this little girl and lift her up in prayer. THE POWER OF PRAYER IS REAL ! ! ! If you want to read more about Cheyenne Caincross you can click on her name to the side of this web page. She is battling with SandHoff Disease. My heart goes out to the Caincross Family ......May the Lord be with them and comfort them during this very difficult time. God Bless you Baby Cheyenne.... Keep fighting...

    Love,

    Brian, Tamara & Bryce Cooper



    Kari took Cheyenne into the hospital last night and they have re-admitted her onto the Bone Marrow Unit. Her heart rate is way too high (200s), her breathing rate is elevated (80s) and she has now spiked a high fever. The echocardiogram yesterday confirmed that she has some fluid around her heart, so there are tests being done to see if that is the problem or if there is something else. The Intensive Care Unit was in her room doing an evaluation this morning to see whether or not she needs to be transferred to their care. Please pray for God to intervene and give us strength. Thank you.

    Thursday, August 17, 2006

    FOR ALL YOU NEWYORK YANKEE FANS

    Mattawan Michigan Wins LLSWS ! ! !




    This past week my Manager from work took off to Portland, Oregon to watch her daughter play softball. Her daughters team made it to the Championship Little League Softball World Series. The Central Team from Mattawan, MI defeated Central from NJ to win the 2006 Little League Softball World Series. These girls are 12,13&14 year olds and play with alot of maturity. It was great to watch them do so well and play with outstanding defense. I am posting the ESPN Press release below. Enjoy and Congratulations Mattawan, MI on a very well played season.

    ESPN PRESS RELEASE:

    Michigan girls beat New Jersey in LLSWS championship

    PORTLAND, Ore. -- Emily McCarty had two RBI singles as Mattawan, Mich. beat Pequannock, N.J. 6-2 to win the Little League Softball World Series championship on Wednesday night.


    Lauren Gevaart added an RBI double for Mattawan, the first team from the Midwest to win the title since 1985 and the first team from Michigan to ever win the championship.


    Mattawan won all 23 games it played this summer. At the World Series, Mattawan outscored its six opponents 27-2.


    Mattawan scored three times in the first inning to take the lead for good. Alyssa McBride, Kiaya Anthony and Allie Lochart all had bunt hits in the inning and Lauren Gevaart had an RBI double. Pequannock cut the lead to 3-1 in the top of the second, but Mattawan answered with three more runs in the bottom of the inning to break it open.


    Loren Nagy pitched a complete game for Mattawan, allowing one earned run on seven hits.


    Kayla Lombardo had a single and a double for Pequannock, the only team to score against Mattawan in the World Series.

    Copyright 2006 by The Associated Press

    Wednesday, August 16, 2006

    FIREWALL

    FIREWALL


    Last night my wife and I rented "FIREWALL" movie off of our Charter Digital Cable. I thought this was a very good movie over all but I was disappointed with the ending. The plot and story was very well put together and the movie kept you at the edge of your seat alot. I thought Harrison Ford did an excellent job as he always does. Overall I give this movie a (B-).



    Movie Information:
    Computer security specialist Jack Stanfield works for the Seattle-based Landrock Pacific Bank. A trusted top-ranking executive, he has built his career and reputation on designing the most effective anti-theft computer systems in the industry. Jack's position affords a comfortable life for him, his architect wife Beth and their two young children--a standard of living that includes a beautiful home in a residential community just outside the city. But there's a vulnerability in Jack's system that he has not accounted for: himself. It's a vulnerability that Bill Cox, one very ruthless and resourceful thief, is poised to exploit. Having spent the better part of a year methodically infiltrating every aspect of Jack's identity, Cox is now ready to make good on his investment.Leading a tight team of mercenary accomplices, he seizes control of the Stanfield house, making Beth and the kids terrified hostages in their own home and Jack his unwilling pawn in a scheme to steal $100 million from the Landrock Pacific Bank. Jack is forced to find a breach in his own formidable security system to siphon funds into his captor's offshore account--incriminating himself in the process. Under constant surveillance, he has only hours to accomplish the risky transactions while desperately hunting for a loophole in the thief's own impenetrable wall of subterfuge and false identities to save his family and beat Cox at his own game.


    Production Status: Released

    Genres: Action/Adventure, Drama and Thriller

    Running Time: 1 hr. 40 min.

    Release Date: February 10th, 2006 (wide)

    MPAA Rating: PG-13 for some intense sequences of violence.

    Distributors: Warner Bros. Pictures Distribution

    Production Co.: Thunder Road Pictures, Village Roadshow Pictures Entertainment, Beacon Communications, Jon Shestack Productions

    Studios: Warner Bros. Pictures, Inc.

    U.S. Box Office: $48,745,150

    Tuesday, August 15, 2006

    Back to Work ! ! !

    Well tomorrow August 16th, 2006 I will be heading back to work in full swing....... This past week and a half off has been nice. Although being home with limitations can get on the boring side. One can only watch so much T.V. & movies....... or Sleep. I did get some things accomplished such as scrubbed the kitchen floor and finished hanging the boarder on my son Bryce's rubber ducky bathroom. I even mowed the lawn today..... Wahoooooo! ! ! So the time has come for me to head back into the real world and W*O*R*K. I am excited to get back in the swing of things and get back into a rythm and routine. I really love my job and taking care of people. Keep me in your prayers as I venture back to work. I feel about 80% but, I am sure with a little due time I will be back at 100% in no time. My incisions are healing really well, although it still is a little tough to sleep in my stomach..... that is my favorite sleeping position. I guess I will have to settle with sleeping on my side. Hope you all have a good day. Keep in touch and thanks again for all the phone calls and visits, cards......ect....ect.... I Love You all very Much.

    Love,

    Brian Cooper

    Monday, August 14, 2006

    WELCOME TO KALAMAZOO MICHIGAN




    The name of this county is derived from a Native American expression, "Kikalamazoo," meaning "the rapids at the river crossing," or "boiling water." In 1826 Bazal Harrison, (nephew to Benjamin Harrison, signer of the Declaration of Independence), formed an agricultural settlement. When the town of Kalamazoo was platted in 1831, it was called "Bronson" after its leader Titus Bronson. By the time Michigan was admitted to the Union on January 26, 1837, Bronson had been renamed Kalamazoo. The Upjohn Pill and Granule Company was organized around the turn of the century by William Erastus Upjohn, now called The Upjohn Company, which is headquartered in Kalamazoo and Portage.
    Kalamazoo has many areas designated as historic districts. Frank Lloyd Wright also found Kalamazoo quite right for his "Usonian" style of homes, built here during the late 1940s.


    Fun Facts

    1. Appeared in Atlases in 1835
    2. Potowatomie Indian word meaning "boiling water"
    3. First called Bronson, changed to Kalamazoo in 1836
    4. Leading commercial source of bedding plants in the 1970's

    Kalamazoo, the home of WMU's main campus, is the fifth largest city in Michigan,
    with a county population of more than 220,000 residents. The city is located midway
    between Chicago and Detroit, 140 miles from each, 2.5 hours driving time on I-94.
    Kalamazoo offers commercial transportation by train, bus, and major airline.

    Local festivals attract crowds in the hundreds of thousands. They are planned
    throughout the year and include:

    RIB Fest
    Ethnic festivals: Hispanic, Greek, and Black Arts
    Arts Festival
    Flowerfest
    New Year's Fest
    Wine and Harvest Festival
    Dark Horse Music Festival

    Venues such as WMU's Miller Auditorium, the historic State Theater, and Wings
    Stadium offer a complete array of concerts featuring every kind of music and
    popular entertainment. Because of its location (midway between Chicago and
    Detroit), Kalamazoo is a frequent stop for many of today's top comedians, musicians
    and other entertainers. The city is home to the Kalamazoo Ballet, the Kalamazoo
    Symphony Orchestra, and the prestigious Irving S. Gilmore International Keyboard
    Festival.

    Theater is alive and thriving in Kalamazoo. In addition to performances at WMU
    and at Kalamazoo College, there are several commercial and community theatre
    companies, perhaps most notably the Kalamazoo Civic Theatre--one of the oldest,
    largest, and most-respected community theatres in the United States.

    A few of the many other cultural opportunities--and there are many--include the
    recently-completed Kalamazoo Valley Museum, the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts,
    and art cinema sponsored by the Kalamazoo Film Society (with films shown in
    WMU's recently completed Campus Cinema).

    In addition to NCAA Division I sports offered at WMU, the Kalamazoo community
    has the Michigan K-Wings (IHL hockey), Kalamazoo Kingdom (pro soccer), and
    Kalamazoo Kodiaks (pro baseball). There are also AAA minor league baseball
    teams in Battle Creek and Grand Rapids.

    Kalamazoo is just 40 minutes from Lake Michigan beaches and only three to four
    hours from Michigan's ski country, considered the best skiing in the central U.S.
    Excellent local skiing is only 30 minutes away.

    The area offers a wide variety of opportunities for entertainment, culture, recreation,and employment.


    Area 576 square miles

    County seat: Kalamazoo

    Colleges and Universities
    Western Michigan University
    Kalamazoo Valley Community College
    Kalamazoo College
    Davenport College

    Hospitals
    Bronson Methodist Center
    Borgess Medical Center

    Major Industries

    Chemical Products
    Pharmaceuticals
    Paper and allied products
    Fabricated metals
    Transportation equipment
    Robots
    Aircraft controls
    Plastics
    Bedding plants

    Saturday, August 12, 2006

    The Wizard of Oz Musical


    Last night I took my wife to the Barn Theatre in Galesburg Augusta to see the Wizard of Oz! Tickets were $29.00 dollars a piece so I was hoping we would get our moneys worth.(Or should I say My parents money's worth this was a Birthday gift from them Thanks Mom and Dad!) Well let me just say the show was "Awesome". This was the first year in the Barn Theatre 61 years of productions of doing the Wizard of Oz. The director stated this was probably one of their hardest shows to do with props and special effects. We had great seats sitting only in the 4th row. All the of the people in the cast we GREAT....... My wife especially loved the munchkins...... you had to be their to understand. They followed the movie right to a tee...... with a few very humorous add ons here and there. And the girl that played "Dorthy" did a really good job singing "Over the Rainbow" which my wife was very surprised...... Because, she states no one can sing that song like Judy Garland..... and she admitted that the girl that played "Dorthy" did exceptionally well. So was the show really worth $29.00? I guess my answer would be that I would have paid that amount in a drop of a hat to see this show.... It really was worth it. There is so much more to tell but....... time is running out. Ask us about it sometime... I know Tamara would love to tell you all about it.

    Friday, August 11, 2006

    Are You Ready For Some...... FOOTBALL ? ?



    Well the time is almost here....... My favorite sports season of the year. There is nothing better than Michigan Wolverine College Football (GO BLUE!) and Detroit Lions NFL Football. I am so excited as we are only weeks away from both of these seasons to start. It should be an exciting season for both teams. I know I am excited......LOL. So grab your soda and chips......order up a pizza or two or three and let the good times roll. I know I have two Uncles out there that are right there with me on this one. I Love You Uncle David and Uncle Garry. The only question left is ................ Are our wives ready for the Football Season to begin ??? *Disclaimer* I hate to admit it but, my wife is actually a Bucky Badger Wisconsin Fan and of all teams a Dallas Cowgirls.....oooops I mean Dallas Cowboys Fan. There is always one flaw in marriage ours happens to be this......just kidding.


    2006 DETROIT LIONS FOOTBALL SCHEDULE


    Sunday, September 10 SEATTLE SEAHAWKS

    Sunday, September 17 @ Chicago Bears

    Sunday September 24 GREEN BAY PACKERS

    Sunday, October 1 @ St. Louis Rams

    Sunday, October 8 @ Minnesota Vikings

    Sunday, October 15 BUFFALO BILLS

    Sunday, October 22 @ New York Jets

    Sunday, October 29 Bye Week

    Sunday, November 5 ATLANTA FALCONS

    Sunday, November 12 SAN FRANCISCO 49ers

    Sunday, November 19 @ Arizona Cardinals

    Thursday, November 23 MIAMI DOLPHINS

    Sunday, December 3 @ New England Patriots

    Sunday, December 10 MINNESOTA VIKINGS

    Sunday, December 17 @ Green Bay Packers

    Sunday, December 24 CHICAGO BEARS

    Sunday, December 31 @ Dallas Cowboys


    2006 Michigan Wolverines Football Schedule


    Sat., Sep. 2 Vanderbilt (HOME)

    Sat., Sep. 9 Central Michigan (HOME)

    Sat., Sep. 16 Notre Dame (AWAY)

    Sat., Sep. 23 Wisconsin* (HOME)

    Sat., Sep. 30 Minnesota* (AWAY)

    Sat., Oct. 7 Michigan State* (HOME)

    Sat., Oct. 14 Penn State* (AWAY)

    Sat., Oct. 21 Iowa* (HOME)

    Sat., Oct. 28 Northwestern* (HOME)

    Sat., Nov. 4 Ball State (HOME)

    Sat., Nov. 11 Indiana* (AWAY)

    Sat., Nov. 18 Ohio State* (AWAY)

    Thursday, August 10, 2006

    I want to say "T H A N K Y O U " ! ! !


    I just want to first of all give "THANKS" to God for keeping me safe and allowing me to get through the surgery with only minor complications. I serve such a wonderful and AWESOME God! He promises to never leave thee or forsake thee...... and I trust whole-heartedly in his rich and truthful PROMISES.

    I also want to thank all my Family and friends and my church family. Your visits, cards, phone calls, and flowers are greatly appreciated. Most importantly I appreciate your thoughts and prayers. I believe in the POWER of PRAYER.

    Lastly I want to send a special thanks to my wife Tamara. She really keeps me in line and has been so good to me the past week. There is nothing she wouldn't do for me. I never take this for granite. I am just thankful the Lord blessed me with such a wonderful woman who strives each day to make our marriage better than it was the day before. Thank-You Sweetie ! ! !

    As for me I am recovering better than I think most of us anticipated. The doctors stated 4-6 weeks before they would release me back to work with "NO RESTICTIONS". After my follow-up visit yesterday morning I came back with great news. My incisions are healing very well and I have been released to go back to work on Wednesday August 16,2006 with "NO RESTRICTIONS". Once again God has been so good. I am going to take it easy and relax until then. I promised the doctor no major activity and to just let my body heal and rest until then. Although alot of you might find me a bit weird..... I do miss my job more than you can ever imagine. I have a great group of co-workers that are fun to work with and most importantly care. I work with all woman so it's like have a dozen mother's around you at all times. You know there is nothing better then a MOM......... Right ???? I have the "Best" mother in the whole WORLD. (Call me biased but.....it's the TRUTH!!!!) You just can't handle the Truth....LOL

    Thanks again to everyone. I Love Each and Everyone of you Very Much ! ! ! !

    Wednesday, August 09, 2006

    Please Pray For Cheyenne Noel Caincross






    My name is Cheyenne Noel Caincross and I was born with a genetic disorder called Sandhoff Disease. I am going to see the doctors at Duke University Medical Center for a stem cell transplant to treat my disorder.
    Cheyenne's older brother, Aaron, was also born with the disease, however at that time there was no known treatment for the disease. At 2 and a half years old, Aaron went to be with the Lord and we miss him very much. It was heartbreaking to hear that Cheyenne was also diagnosed with the disease. We have two healthy children born between Aaron and Cheyenne. We found the information about stem cell transplants on the Internet and began to pursue information. In just a few short weeks, the Lord allowed us to receive the medical coverage that we needed along with other assistance programs to help us on this 4 to 6 month long journey. The Lord also answered our prayers for a newer vehicle by providing us a 2005 minivan through the generosity of our local church. We are praying that God would touch Cheyenne's body and heal her and use the doctors and the treatments in that healing.

    To learn more about Cheyenne you can visit the link posted on the side of this site labeled Cheyenne Noel Caincross. Just click on her name and you will be directed to her website.


    I went to Maranatha Baptist Bible College with Cheyenne's Father A.C. Caincross and I consider him a great friend. The Caincross has been through alot yet, you can tell the there is PEACE. We both believe and serve in the same Great God. Please take time to get to know the Caincross family and what they have been going through with the link at the side. Take time out of your day and pray for them.

    May God do a mighty work with baby Cheyenne Caincross and use her life as a testimony. Also I pray that the Caincross family have the encouragement to stay strong and endure through this difficult time in their life. God Bless You ALL ! ! !

    TO THE PRAISE OF HIS GLORY~

    Brian Cooper

    Monday, August 07, 2006

    Happy 30th Birthday

    It's hard to believe that I actually hit the "3 0" mark in my life. I guess life is all down hill from here right? I am just thankful to be alive and have a wonderful family. Tamara, Bryce and myself are a very happy family and I am thankful for them.I have been blessed a such a beautiful wife and handsome son. My parents (Don and Rhonda) and Tamara's parents (LeRoy and BethAnn) have been too good to me and have taught me alot and have been there for me always. My aunties and uncles, cousins and friends. I am so very thankful to be surrounded by such wonderful people. I am most thankful for Jesus Christ my Lord and Savior. As I sit here I have the song in my head "Tis So Sweet To Trust In Jesus." What a wonderful song by Louisa M.R. Stead 1882 (words) and William Kirkpatrick (music)

    ’Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus,
    And to take Him at His Word;
    Just to rest upon His promise,
    And to know, “Thus says the Lord!”

    Refrain

    Jesus, Jesus, how I trust Him!
    How I’ve proved Him o’er and o’er
    Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus!
    O for grace to trust Him more!

    O how sweet to trust in Jesus,
    Just to trust His cleansing blood;
    And in simple faith to plunge me
    ’Neath the healing, cleansing flood!

    Refrain

    Yes, ’tis sweet to trust in Jesus,
    Just from sin and self to cease;
    Just from Jesus simply taking
    Life and rest, and joy and peace.

    Refrain

    I’m so glad I learned to trust Thee,
    Precious Jesus, Savior, Friend;
    And I know that Thou art with me,
    Wilt be with me to the end.

    Refrain

    Sunday, August 06, 2006

    EMERGENCY APPENDECTOMY

    Well....... it all started Friday August 4th while at work about 1:30 pm. I was having severe right lower quadrent pain so bad I cried. (embarrassing) My co-worker graciously wheeled me down to the E.R. where I waited over 2 hours before being treated. Once taken back the Resident M.D. and Surgeon decided I need emergency appendix surgery. It was a matter of what seemed minutes and I was in the O.R. for surgery. I remember being strapped to a table and the room was extremely cold. I was told to breathe in this mask and then........poof...... the lights went out. The operating team intubated me (breathing tube in) and shave my belly which is NOT a pretty site and then cut three incisions to take out my appendix successfully. I had a little trouble toward the end of surgery as my asthma kicked in and my lungs tightned up while I was still intubated. They gave me a couple breathing treatments and I recovered well and was able to be extubated.(breathing tube out) I was then whisked to PACU to recover and I had another asthma attack. I was fighting with the nurses and pulling everything off. The nurses tied me down and did a wonderful job treating me and getting my breathing under control. After recovering I was sent to my room E208 where my wife and mother were waiting for my arrival. I was glad to see them both and ready to go home.......... wishful thinking ! I ended up staying the night and had alot of pain meds and fought to try and learn the function of going the bathroom again (#1). I remember waking up in the wee hours of the morning and watching the replay of the Tigers beating those Clevland Indians 7-6 *Wahooooo!!* I spent all day at the hospital on Saturday with my wife by my side. My pastor came to visit at noon and his wife and son(stephen) visited awhile later. I finally convinced the hopsital to release me at about 11p.m. Saturday night. I came home and went directly to bed. I woke up in severe pain but, was able to get that under control and maintain control thanks to my wife keeping a timely schedule with my medications. My wife has been my crutch all along the way and I appreciate being married to her. Each and everyday with Tamara is sweetier and sweetier. What a "GEM" she is!!! I also need to say a big "THANKS" to my parents for picking up Bryce and keeping him over night on such short notice. I know they already have their hands full yet, they stepped up to the plate and pinched hit under quick circumstances. I also thank everyone for coveting their prayers during this time. I have been told I will be out of work for 4-6weeks (not what I wanted to hear). So we will see what we can do to convince the Doctor to knock that time down tremendously.(wishful thinking again.) As for now I will be taking it easy and resting for a fast and speedy recovery. Praise God for being with me all along the way. He is my great physician and will always meet my every need. With out God my life would be vain.

    To The Praise Of His Glory~

    Brian Cooper

    Appendix Information:


    Your appendix is a finger-shaped pouch that projects out from your colon on the lower right side of your abdomen. The small structure has no known purpose, but that doesn't mean it can't cause problems. Appendicitis is a condition in which the appendix becomes inflamed and filled with pus.

    The main symptom of appendicitis is pain that typically begins around the navel and then shifts to the lower right abdomen. The pain of appendicitis usually increases over a period of six to 12 hours, and eventually may become very severe.

    Anyone can develop appendicitis, but it most often strikes people between the ages of 10 and 30. Appendicitis is one of the most common reasons for emergency abdominal surgery in children.

    The standard treatment for appendicitis is surgical removal of the appendix. In many cases the surgery is straightforward, and you recover quickly. But if your appendix has ruptured, the surgery may be more complicated and you'll take longer to heal. A ruptured appendix that's not promptly treated can lead to serious complications such as infection. In rare instances appendicitis that results in a ruptured appendix can be fatal.

    Thursday, August 03, 2006

    Here is Michigan's New License Plate ! ! !


    Here it is your new upcoming license plate for Michigan........ I really don't know what to think. Part of me says I like it and another part of me says we could have done better. Anyways I posted the information below from the wwmt.com channel 3 news link. Enjoy and have a nice day.

    Michigan's newest license plate has been revealed. It's a white, green and blue plate with black lettering. It features the Mackinac Bridge, the Great Lakes, the Detroit skyline, pine trees and wheat fields. Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land says the new plate replaces the license plate that showed only the Mackinac Bridge. The old bridge plate has been around since January 1997. Land's office chose the new design from more than 1,500 submissions from the public. Michigan's traditional blue plate also is being retired in January. New reflective plates with white backgrounds will be issued.

    Wednesday, August 02, 2006

    1-888-GETCHARTER

    Well it all started back a couple of days ago, when Charter Communications gave me a phone call offering me their "Best" digital cable package with the 5M cable internet. Well I gave them a couple days and wanted to check the status of my offer that I accepted. Well.....to say the least I got the ultimate run around.

    1. I called the 1-888-GETCHARTER which is a bogus number. The actual number is 1-888-GETCHART. (GETCHARTER IS TO MANY CHARACTERS...yet the advertise it on their website.......go figure)

    2. After calling several times I finally get through to an automated prompter. Please punch in your phone number (press #) Please verify the last 4 digits of your S.S #.....then I finally get a LIVE person and have to do all the verification again only to have them disconnect on me. Why do they want you to punch in all this information if they are going to ask you it again anyways?

    3. I call back several times only to go through the automated prompter and get a busy signal.

    4. I finally get through for the last time.... did the whole automated prompter.... enter phone number and last 4 digits of S.S#, Finally get a Live person and do all the verification again. Then she has the "guts" to tell me that she can't help me and needs to send out a technician...... Absolutely NOT..... I say ! ! ! ! So I waited another 30 minutes to speak with her supervisor and finally got somewhere.

    I wasted half my evening just trying to get through to Charter Communications. When I finally got through for the last time I was not going to give up until "this" customer got served. Moral of the story........ be patient and be persistant you are the consumer paying for service. If you let them walk all over you then chances are they will 110%.

    * Brian Steps off his Soap-Box *

    Tuesday, August 01, 2006

    Learn how to "BEAT THE HEAT" ! ! !

    With the weather being extrememly "HOT" the past few days. I thought this would be appropriate and yet, a reminder for us on how to "BEAT THE HEAT". Today the weather is supposed to climb near 110 degree mark with the heat index.... So stay cool.

    Every year between 175 and 400 Americans die from extreme heat. Young children, elderly people, and those who are sick or overweight are more likely to become victims. Between 1979 – 2002, excessive heat exposure caused 8,966 deaths in the United States. During this period, more people in this country died from extreme heat than from hurricanes, lightning, tornadoes, floods, and earthquakes combined.

    1) Drink plenty of water
    Drink plenty of fluids even if you don’t feel thirsty. During the heat and strenuous activity drink 1-3 cups of water an hour. If you wait until you are thirsty, you have waited too long.

    2) Limit intake of caffeine
    For every 8oz. of caffeine a person drinks they will lose 4oz.

    3) Eat less protein
    Eat less protein - Foods (like proteins) that increase metabolic heat production also increase water loss. It is best to eat smaller meals more frequently.

    4) Wear light clothing
    Wear lightweight light-colored loose fitting clothing that reflects heat and sunlight and covers as much skin as possible. It will help your body maintain normal temperatures.

    5) Wear a wide-brimmed hat
    Protect face, neck and head by wearing a wide-brimmed hat.

    6) Avoid too much sunshine
    Avoid too much sunshine. Sunburn slows the skin's ability to cool itself. Use a sunscreen lotion with a high SPF (sun protection factor) rating of at least 15.

    7) Cover windows to block sun
    Hang shades, draperies, awnings, or louvers on windows that receive morning or afternoon sun. Outdoor awnings or louvers can reduce the heat entering the house by as much as 80 percent.

    8) Stay inside with air-conditioning
    Air-conditioning is the number one protective factor against heat-related illness and death. Stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine if air conditioning is not available.

    9) Plan your errands
    Plan your errands during the warmest part of the day to be in public buildings with air conditioning such as libraries, schools, movie theaters, shopping malls, and other community facilities. Circulating air can cool the body by increasing the perspiration rate of evaporation.

    10) Schedule strenuous work for early mornings and evenings
    Avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day. Strenuous activities should be reduced, eliminated, or rescheduled to the coolest time of the day, in the early mornings and evenings. Use a buddy system when working in extreme heat, and take frequent breaks.