This time of year can be such a crazy time! I'm always so excited about Christmas morning (probably more than my children) but getting there just about kills me. This year Lee Cooper wants a drum set. (He has actually wanted one for two years now, but so far Santa has come up with better ideas. This year I'm afraid Santa has been dumb.) If he happens to get a drum set for Christmas, seeing the smile on his face will make all the bangs and clangs worth it for this pregnant mommy.(hopefully!) I've been thinking about Christmas, and how wrapped up I get in the giving of Christmas, the traditions of Christmas, and making sure we get to as many family gatherings as we can with great big happy smiles on all of our faces. All of this stress and worry causes me to be reminded of the true meaning of Christmas. (Look, I know you just rolled your eyes and you think you know where this is going before I've even finished, but just hear me out.) I know that is a slightly cliché thing to say, but for me it is real. As real as it gets. I'm told that as long as I have faith the size of a mustard seed, I can move mountains. This is one of my favorite verses of the Bible, and one I repeat often to myself because I'm a somewhat analytical person. (I guess I get that from my daddy.) On some days I have the faith that if I leaped off the mountain, I would soar on eagles wings, and then there are days when I have faith the size of a grain of sand. This is probably because I tend to be a worrier. I worry about our finances, and if Zach and I will ever be able to meet our financial goals. I worry about my children becoming productive members of society. I worry about my husband's health and that I will hopefully never face a day without the security of him by my side. Saying that I like logics and saying I'm a Christian is very contradictory. Let's face it, logic tells us not to believe in a virgin birth, or that the child of this virgin would grow up to preach and teach. That He would heal the blind and make the lame walk or turn water into wine. Logics say there is no way an innocent man would go pray in a garden and wait for people to come and arrest Him w/ no guilt of any crime, to stand trial with no defense, to watch His closest friends turn their backs on Him. That the spotless lamb would hang on a tree when he had the power to call 10,000 angels to rescue Him, to die for me and the many generations that came before me and after me, that He would be seen again on earth for some days only to ascend into heaven. That it is His desire to take me there with Him one day. None of these things seem logical. None of them make sense, but for me they are as real as my husbands love for me, my love for my children, or my childhood memories. Even on my weakest day, where my faith wavers on so many levels, these truths are still apart of me. Even when I hold my hands up and ask why, I know that someone is there listening to my agony and loving me in spite of it. My Jesus. My Savior. One day, I'll spend His birthday with Him. I'll dance and sing for Him. I won't have to feel so weak, but until those days let me thank Him for being that beautiful gift of a Savior! Let me thank Him for his love for me, and for the many gifts I have in this life.
Matthew 17:20
He replied, "Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."
Luke 2:9-14
And behold an angel of the Lord stood before them and the glory of the Lord shone around them and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them. "Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: you will find a babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger." And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying:
"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!"
Sunday, December 23, 2012
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
Who has time for this????
For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. Romans 8:18
The first thing that has happened to my van is my wonderful husband decided I needed some connector device hooked up to the radio, so I could listen to music from my I Pod. Isn't he sweet? So thoughtful. Now, that was fine with me because like I said he is a master at knowing how things work, and I trust his decisions. (UH EM!) In the process of hooking said little connector device to the radio, something happened. I'm still not really sure what even though he has explained it to me several times. (Let's be honest. I don't care what happened. I just want it to not happen!) Anyway, the cd player will not work, and the dvd player is broken. Yep broken! Now, he says he can fix this, and I have full confidence in him that he will be able to fix it, but it hasn't happened yet. We have been on two trips in the wonderful van with no dvd player......one all the way to Knoxville, TN and back. Then we traveled with five children to Asheville, NC and back. We survived, but there were definitely times that I exchanged glances with Mr. Cooper and told him with my eyes that a dvd player sure would be nice right about now!
Another problem with the van is the engine has had a coolant leak or something to that effect. I discovered the seriousness of this when Mama and I were on our way back to Eudora from G'ville one day. I swear we thought there was a rat in the glove box because we kept hearing it knock around in the dash. You can imagine the fear that was in the van in those moments, but we made it to Eudora with no sighting of the mouse. I dropped mama off and headed back to Shreveport. I decided to give Z a call on my way home. I was telling him all about the weekend. "Mama and I did this and then we laughed about that and then we thought there was a rat in the glove box. Haha! It was so funny, Zach." His responses to me consisted of "uh huh," "yep," "oh yeah. That is funny." After talking for about 15 mins, I glanced down at my gages and realized we were hot. I mean really hot. I told Zach, and let's just say that he convinced me I should probably check my gages a little more than I do. I did what most girls would've done in my position. Told Zach that I would handle it, and quickly called my daddy. (For future reference girls, if you hear a knocking sound, CHECK YOUR GAGES! DO NOT ASSUME IT IS A MOUSE!) Tisdale came to my rescue! He bought coolant, filled the little thing up, and showed me how to do it if I was ever in this position again. (It should be noted that he did not make me feel stupid. Thank you DADDY. uh em!)
Okay, so this brings us to the current problems with the van. It blows smoke like a freight train. I mean seriously, it is a sight. It also sounds funny. Zach has decided that it has a blown gasket, which is a big deal apparently. It kept my Z up all night one night wondering what we were going to do. He walked through our room about 2:00 in the morning, and said he couldn't sleep because he was worried about the van. I was as sympathetic as I could be for someone that was sound asleep. He also explained to me about pistons and up and down and oil and water. I really did try to listen with the intent to learn. The nest day, Zachary Ryan talked to a mechanic and there is apparently some bottle of something that we can pour down in there somewhere and it will stop a leak. He is going to try that before taking it to a real mechanic. (Uh em!)
This brings me to this morning. Oh this morning. Zach has an interview in Dallas today, so of course he isn't home. Nor, do I want to call him because you know he is busy making decisions about our future. I slept with all 3 babies last night. Wait. Scratch that. Let's make it all four babies because this pregnancy is getting REAL! We woke up this morning, and of course Lee doesn't want to go to school. That is like pulling teeth. I hear things from him like, "I'm dying." Um no you are not Lee. "I wish I had your life mama." Oh yeah, Lee. Sure you do. "But I just want to spend time with my Kate and Wade." hahaha that is a funny one. I got all the kids dressed with breakfast in their hands and loaded in the car. Turned the key. Click click click. NOOOOO! The battery was dead. Zach had already decided that it would be safe for me to drive Lee to school and then come straight back home. I was so mad at my silly silly van. (I would say stupid van but I know that isn't nice so I'm trying to be respectful.) So now, here I sit with all of my children.
There is no point to this story, and it is much longer than I planned on it being, but we could just call this a little rant. Sorry if it was a boring one. The children do not seem to sympathize with their mama too much.
If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him! Matthew 7:11
And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19
Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. Matthew 11:29-30
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
What was I thinking?
Okay, I'm willing to admit that sometimes I don't always do things to the best of my ability. When Zachary is cleaning, he moves furniture AND matches the socks. He would never in a million years think of hiding something under the couch or the bed. I, on the other hand, am more of a surface cleaner. If I walk in my house and it "looks" clean, then I'm good to go. (Just don't look in my closet.....please don't. I will die of humiliation.) Now, this is fine until it is "big cleaning day." On that day, I go around my house ranting and raving, mainly at myself but sometimes directed at the kids. I'm going to tell you a few of the things that I was mad at myself about this morning......(and hopefully some of you out there will tell me I'm not alone in my half-hazardousness.)
1. Why did I think it was a good idea not to fold last week. I mean I continued to wash all the clothes but I did not fold one single freshly cleaned garment. It was all piled on the extra twin bed in Lee's room. Crazy!
2. Why is it a good idea to continue to shove things in a garbage can that is already full, especially when the trash bag is falling down in the trash can. Lazy!
3. Why was it a good idea to buy that bag of Halloween candy. Fullzy!
4. Why would I think it was a good idea to stay up so late last night watching the news. Hazy!
5. Why would a little person think it was a good idea to color all over the freshly mopped kitchen floor with side walk chalk. (This could've been worse, so I handled it pretty well.) Lousy!!
These are just a few things that were running through my mind this morning while I was straightening the house and cleaning the kitchen. Now that I have all the clothes folded and only have two loads to wash today, I feel better about all of those things. However, I'm sure that if Zach looked around or under, he would find things that I should be doing and completely bust my bubble, but for now I feel quite accomplished. I promise to myself to never let the folding pile up like that again.......(Well, at least until the next time that I have a hundred things to do and the laundry gets pushed to the side.)
On a side note my heart aches for those people in the Northeast that have had their lives turned upside down. My prayers are with them and the recovery workers. Hopefully, with everyone working together they will get it all cleaned up quicker than they expect.
And when He got into the boat, the disciples followed him. And behold there arose a great storm on the sea, so that the boat was being swamped by the waves; but He was asleep. And they woke Him saying, "Save us Lord. We are perishing." And He said to them, "Why are you afraid. O, ye of little faith." Then He arose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm. And the men marveled saying, "What kind of man is this that even the winds and sea obey him." Matthew 8:23-27
1. Why did I think it was a good idea not to fold last week. I mean I continued to wash all the clothes but I did not fold one single freshly cleaned garment. It was all piled on the extra twin bed in Lee's room. Crazy!
2. Why is it a good idea to continue to shove things in a garbage can that is already full, especially when the trash bag is falling down in the trash can. Lazy!
3. Why was it a good idea to buy that bag of Halloween candy. Fullzy!
4. Why would I think it was a good idea to stay up so late last night watching the news. Hazy!
5. Why would a little person think it was a good idea to color all over the freshly mopped kitchen floor with side walk chalk. (This could've been worse, so I handled it pretty well.) Lousy!!
These are just a few things that were running through my mind this morning while I was straightening the house and cleaning the kitchen. Now that I have all the clothes folded and only have two loads to wash today, I feel better about all of those things. However, I'm sure that if Zach looked around or under, he would find things that I should be doing and completely bust my bubble, but for now I feel quite accomplished. I promise to myself to never let the folding pile up like that again.......(Well, at least until the next time that I have a hundred things to do and the laundry gets pushed to the side.)
On a side note my heart aches for those people in the Northeast that have had their lives turned upside down. My prayers are with them and the recovery workers. Hopefully, with everyone working together they will get it all cleaned up quicker than they expect.
And when He got into the boat, the disciples followed him. And behold there arose a great storm on the sea, so that the boat was being swamped by the waves; but He was asleep. And they woke Him saying, "Save us Lord. We are perishing." And He said to them, "Why are you afraid. O, ye of little faith." Then He arose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm. And the men marveled saying, "What kind of man is this that even the winds and sea obey him." Matthew 8:23-27
Monday, October 1, 2012
Baby baby baby.....
Okay...so I'm going to start this off as sort of a disclaimer. There are things that I know to be true, but these things don't always align with what I'm feeling at any given moment of the day. For example, I know that I am extremely blessed to have the children that I have held in my arms and to be given a fourth baby that I hold in my tummy. I know that I have had friends that have struggled with getting pregnant or experienced great heartache during pregnancy. It is not lost on me that to be a mother is a privilege, an honor, and a great responsibility. I never want my "feelings" about what I'm going through on a particular day to change what I know as truth about the distinct privilege it is to be called "Mama."
Now lets get to the feelings that completely contradict all of the nice things that I just said. I'm slightly overwhelmed, a little nervous, and very doubtful of how I will handle another precious child while balancing the needs of my other children and of course the man of the house. I have decided to make a little list of all of the feelings I have been having lately. Again, I want to warn you this is not a positive list......(Wow. This sounds so depressing! Lighten it up, Elizabeth!)
1. Although Zach tells me not to be embarrassed because he is a "grown man," and we have nothing to be embarrassed about, I can't help but feel a little (scratch that) ALOT embarrassed.
2. Yes, we know what causes it. (Hahahahaha......did you come up with that one on your on because it is soooooooo funny!)
3. No this is not a religious thing. We will not have a tv show on TLC called The Coopers where I talk about God deciding how many children we will have. (In fact, I can tell you this will be the last one from this set of Coopers. I know you are wondering, so there I said it.)
4. I will never ever get caught up on laundry. I will be doing tons of laundry everyday until this child turns at least 18.
5. I don't think I'm a supermom. Instead, I think I have been forced to let some things go that some of you wonderful awesome moms out there would never ever do. I have learned to pick and choose what to stress out about and when to say....ohhhh well, that kid can be bathed tomorrow. However, you will never know how encouraging it is to be called a supermom. It makes me feel like I'm one of those people that have it all together, and let's face it I have NEVER been one of those people.
6. Last night I couldn't get to sleep because I was so far behind on housework. I almost got up at 3:30 to do laundry, but the fear of waking up the husband that has to work and the kids that NEED SLEEP caused me just to go to the couch and sulk. (I also prayed a little and made a list about what I needed to do today, which helped my feelings too.)
7. I really hate our bank account. It needs to grow exponentially!
8. Have I mentioned we don't know where we are going to live next year? I mean we don't even know what state we will be in. Sometimes this excites me about the future and then sometimes this makes me want to go straight home to Eudora and spend as much time with ole Sally and Steve as I can.
9. I really shouldn't have given all my maternity clothes to Goodwill. What was I thinking????
10. Man, I feel huge and sick and tired and sick and tired and HUGE!
11. YES it is just one! (Although deep down I still worry about one hiding around in there somewhere but I have been assured that it is just one little flashing heartbeat.)
I will say that this morning as I was rushing out of the house and into the van to get Lee to school (which he looked so handsome and like he must have a mom that has it all together but we won't talk about how the twins were dressed.) I looked down at a little picture that was on the speedometer and saw this little picture. It reminded me that there is another little baby in there that I will love as much as the three babies I already love so much and that really nothing else matters. Thank you Lord for the life I have and the blessings you have given us!
"For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them."
Now lets get to the feelings that completely contradict all of the nice things that I just said. I'm slightly overwhelmed, a little nervous, and very doubtful of how I will handle another precious child while balancing the needs of my other children and of course the man of the house. I have decided to make a little list of all of the feelings I have been having lately. Again, I want to warn you this is not a positive list......(Wow. This sounds so depressing! Lighten it up, Elizabeth!)
1. Although Zach tells me not to be embarrassed because he is a "grown man," and we have nothing to be embarrassed about, I can't help but feel a little (scratch that) ALOT embarrassed.
2. Yes, we know what causes it. (Hahahahaha......did you come up with that one on your on because it is soooooooo funny!)
3. No this is not a religious thing. We will not have a tv show on TLC called The Coopers where I talk about God deciding how many children we will have. (In fact, I can tell you this will be the last one from this set of Coopers. I know you are wondering, so there I said it.)
4. I will never ever get caught up on laundry. I will be doing tons of laundry everyday until this child turns at least 18.
5. I don't think I'm a supermom. Instead, I think I have been forced to let some things go that some of you wonderful awesome moms out there would never ever do. I have learned to pick and choose what to stress out about and when to say....ohhhh well, that kid can be bathed tomorrow. However, you will never know how encouraging it is to be called a supermom. It makes me feel like I'm one of those people that have it all together, and let's face it I have NEVER been one of those people.
6. Last night I couldn't get to sleep because I was so far behind on housework. I almost got up at 3:30 to do laundry, but the fear of waking up the husband that has to work and the kids that NEED SLEEP caused me just to go to the couch and sulk. (I also prayed a little and made a list about what I needed to do today, which helped my feelings too.)
7. I really hate our bank account. It needs to grow exponentially!
8. Have I mentioned we don't know where we are going to live next year? I mean we don't even know what state we will be in. Sometimes this excites me about the future and then sometimes this makes me want to go straight home to Eudora and spend as much time with ole Sally and Steve as I can.
9. I really shouldn't have given all my maternity clothes to Goodwill. What was I thinking????
10. Man, I feel huge and sick and tired and sick and tired and HUGE!
11. YES it is just one! (Although deep down I still worry about one hiding around in there somewhere but I have been assured that it is just one little flashing heartbeat.)
I will say that this morning as I was rushing out of the house and into the van to get Lee to school (which he looked so handsome and like he must have a mom that has it all together but we won't talk about how the twins were dressed.) I looked down at a little picture that was on the speedometer and saw this little picture. It reminded me that there is another little baby in there that I will love as much as the three babies I already love so much and that really nothing else matters. Thank you Lord for the life I have and the blessings you have given us!
 |
| Yes. Of course that is me behind that picture with a towel wrapped around my head. |
"For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them."
Psalm 139:13-16
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Hands
"Whatsoever your hands find to do, do it with all your might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, where thou goest."
I have always loved hands. Even as a little girl I would notice hands. When I was little I longed for hands that were long and slender with fingernails that clicked. I used to watch cashiers punching numbers and think, "Wow. So fancy!" (I would put scotch tape around the tips of my fingernails and play store for hours.) However, there are some hands that mean more to me than being fancy or flashy. In fact, to other people they are average looking hands, but to me they will be hands that I never forget. My daddy's hands have always looked so strong. Mama's hand playing the piano always look graceful but powerful. One grandfather always wore a Masonic ring, and the other picks his fingernails with a pocket knife. There is my grandmother's "special little hand" and Leilei's hands teaching me to quilt, helping me pick fabrics. James Henry picking his fingernails and driving Sister insane. Sister's hands that have always looked soft to me, and everything my hands are not. Zachary Ryan's hands can look so rugged to me, like when he was coming home from a training after a week of being gone when he was in the Marine Corps. Those hands can also look skilled and almost tender when holding a stethoscope to listen to our babies breathe. Hands. I don't know why I like them, but they are always something that sticks out in my mind and memories.
The other day, I was being forced to take a nap with the little ones. I mean really really FORCED! While Wade was falling asleep that day, he reached up and grabbed my hand. (He loves to hold hands, and I will gladly hold those hands until he stops needing that from me.) He has the cutest little, short, chubby fingers. On this day, they were a little bit sticky and very hot. I was looking at those fingers holding on to mine, and I realized that these hands are changing. One day they will be a man's hands and will grow to be bigger than mine. One day they will drive a car, take a test, fill out applications, love a wife, and hold a sweet baby. In that moment, I was filled with prayer. I want to be the Mama that guides my children to be people that have a relationship with Christ, that grow up to have happy homes. People that have dreams and desires. As their mama, I want to lead them to be the people that they hope to be, and keep those sweet fingers from any harm. Those little fingers that I know I can't always shelter or keep from pain, because they have to experience hurt to grow up, but I hope my hands are always there to catch them before they fall too far.
There's another set of hands that I haven't been able to see yet, and these hands will mean the most to me. One day, when I'm done with this world and I'm facing the Savior of the universe, he will reach out his hand for me. It will be a hand with a scar in the middle. It will be a hand that has held me my whole life, but I will finally be able to see it with my eyes. Oh what a day that will be!
A week later, they were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you." Then he said to Thomas,
"Put your fingers here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe." Thomas said to him, "My Lord and my God!" Then Jesus told him, "Because you have seen, you believe. Blessed are those that believe but eyes have not yet seen."
John20:26-29
I have always loved hands. Even as a little girl I would notice hands. When I was little I longed for hands that were long and slender with fingernails that clicked. I used to watch cashiers punching numbers and think, "Wow. So fancy!" (I would put scotch tape around the tips of my fingernails and play store for hours.) However, there are some hands that mean more to me than being fancy or flashy. In fact, to other people they are average looking hands, but to me they will be hands that I never forget. My daddy's hands have always looked so strong. Mama's hand playing the piano always look graceful but powerful. One grandfather always wore a Masonic ring, and the other picks his fingernails with a pocket knife. There is my grandmother's "special little hand" and Leilei's hands teaching me to quilt, helping me pick fabrics. James Henry picking his fingernails and driving Sister insane. Sister's hands that have always looked soft to me, and everything my hands are not. Zachary Ryan's hands can look so rugged to me, like when he was coming home from a training after a week of being gone when he was in the Marine Corps. Those hands can also look skilled and almost tender when holding a stethoscope to listen to our babies breathe. Hands. I don't know why I like them, but they are always something that sticks out in my mind and memories.
The other day, I was being forced to take a nap with the little ones. I mean really really FORCED! While Wade was falling asleep that day, he reached up and grabbed my hand. (He loves to hold hands, and I will gladly hold those hands until he stops needing that from me.) He has the cutest little, short, chubby fingers. On this day, they were a little bit sticky and very hot. I was looking at those fingers holding on to mine, and I realized that these hands are changing. One day they will be a man's hands and will grow to be bigger than mine. One day they will drive a car, take a test, fill out applications, love a wife, and hold a sweet baby. In that moment, I was filled with prayer. I want to be the Mama that guides my children to be people that have a relationship with Christ, that grow up to have happy homes. People that have dreams and desires. As their mama, I want to lead them to be the people that they hope to be, and keep those sweet fingers from any harm. Those little fingers that I know I can't always shelter or keep from pain, because they have to experience hurt to grow up, but I hope my hands are always there to catch them before they fall too far.
There's another set of hands that I haven't been able to see yet, and these hands will mean the most to me. One day, when I'm done with this world and I'm facing the Savior of the universe, he will reach out his hand for me. It will be a hand with a scar in the middle. It will be a hand that has held me my whole life, but I will finally be able to see it with my eyes. Oh what a day that will be!
A week later, they were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you." Then he said to Thomas,
"Put your fingers here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe." Thomas said to him, "My Lord and my God!" Then Jesus told him, "Because you have seen, you believe. Blessed are those that believe but eyes have not yet seen."
John20:26-29
Thursday, August 30, 2012
30th Birthday Blues
Well, the time has come to celebrate another birthday. This one isn't just any regular birthday either. It's the big 3-0. As my sister so kindly pointed out to me, I'm thirty years old with 3 kids and a lot of responsibility. Zach sang the Tim McGraw song, "My Next 30 Years," to me this morning. I would be lying if I said I'm not a little sad to leave my twenties behind. A lot of great things happened to me in my twenties. I graduated from Tech, married Coop, lived in North Carolina for awhile, became an aunt, lived in Monroe, became a teacher, became a mother, moved to Shreveport, became a stay-at-home mom, lost a grandparent. It was a big decade. So I've decided that on this day, this very special day, I'm going to look back and be thankful for what I've been through, and look forward and be excited about what is to come. Here is a list of my 30 thankful thoughts:
1. I'm thankful that I became a Christian when I was 7. I really don't remember a time that I didn't know my Lord. He has always been with me in my life, and will always be here for me. I remember when I decided to take the steps to fully devote myself to being a Christian, I felt such peace. I was only seven, so I couldn't have had that much weight on me, but I felt so much relief even at such a young age. Relief that comes from knowing that no matter what had happened in my life and what will happen in the future, God will always be with me. Still to this day, I have fears and worries. Sometimes I worry about all the ways that my life could turn upside down. Things that could damper my future plans or worse, change my plans forever. Those worries can consume me, but I have a peace that comes from knowing that no matter what ugly this world has in store for me, there is a Master that has my name on His lips that will be with me always. He knows the plans HE has for me, and in all that could happen in this world he will make it good because I am His.
2. I'm thankful for Zachary Ryan. True heroes don't ever admit that they are brave or anything special because they know people that gave more than they were asked to give. These thoughts can haunt them at times. However to me, a hero is someone that is simply willing to serve. Being willing to serve your country, your family, your community, people you don't know. That shows true courage. My Zach shys away from recognition of his service and doesn't like a lot of attention. He is always quick to talk about others that gave more than him or are still giving their time, but to me he is a hero. My hero, my compass, my comedian, my joy, my past, my future, and everything in between.
(I've got to speed this list up or Lee Cooper is going to turn blue in the face.)
3. I'm thankful for Lee Bradford, Lauren Kate, and Wade Harmon. I am thankful that God has given us such little blessings and look forward to the day that he adds to this family that Zach and I started. One day in my next 30 years I'll be rocking grandbabies and know that this has all been part of a plan.
4. I'm thankful for my little two bedroom house. The time we have spent in this house with one bathroom has been full of laughter and growth.
5. I will be even more thankful for the memory of my two bedroom house. "Moving on up....."
6. I'm thankful for my family history. I didn't know but one of my great-grandparents, but because of family stories, I know that they were people that worked hard, loved their kids, and established a great foundation for generations to come.
7. I'm thankful for my mini-van. I am. Can't help it.
8. Thankful for birthday text, messages, and phone calls.
9. Thankful for the health of my babies, husband, and loved ones. This should not be taken for granted. So much can happen to people in the blink of an eye.
10. I'm thankful for childhood memories. My parents and sister have always been with me, and I'm so happy that my special moments growing up always included them.
11. I'm thankful for my in-laws. From day one, they have accepted me into their family. Thanks guys.
12. I'm thankful for a husband that works so hard for his family.
13. I'm thankful that Jake is such a good dog.
14. I'm thankful for my Mama's new hip, and my daddy's happy feet.
16. I'm thankful for those friends that know when they look at my face or hear my voice that something is wrong. I'm thankful that I have a few close friends that I can call and no matter what mood they are in or I am in, we will join each other in the middle.
17. I'm thankful for Marley Elizabeth, Patterson Henry, and Ava Margaret. They have made being an aunt such a joy.
18. I'm thankful that nobody is really making me finish this list because the kids have gone insane. Apparently they didn't get the memo that it is MY birthday.......
Monday, July 16, 2012
A blog of randomness....
I'm not sure what is wrong with my mood lately, but I'm in a terrible, awful, no good, kinda mood. You know the kind where you just look at your husband, and he's got to be thinking, "uh. Yeah, I'll do that for you babe." I mean sure I could list you all the things that are getting on my nerves right now, like the house being sticky, the clothes piling up and piling up and piling up, the dog that is shedding, the kids that are poopy, the pantry that is empty, the van that is nasty, the yard that needs mowing, the fridge that needs cleaning. But, what would be the point in really talking about all that. I mean all of that is really just a little depressing. Instead of focusing on the things I should be doing, I am going to focus on the way all that stuff makes me feel. Here are a list of things that have been running through my mind. It's like a whole blog of Facebook status updates. Sounds fun and interesting right?
1. All of my friends with nice clean houses and laundry put up and wonderfully homemade supper cooked, you really make me internally ill.
2. Maybe I should get a job, and put these crazy people in day care.
3. I think I'll just take the kids to play in the sprinkler, and not worry about the house. I mean it will just be this way again tomorrow. (Kind of serious about just ditching these responsibilities and enjoying my babies.)
4. Ahahaha! *Evil laugh* My kids don't believe I'll do it. ahhahahahaa
5. Oh yes telemarketer, of course I have a few minutes to talk to you. Just what I wanted to do with my time.
6. Man, I love this toe nail polish. It looks so natural. (Happy thought of the day.)
7.Well, I hope you are enjoying that beach vacation.
8. You remember that time I got in that fight on Facebook about that with some woman I don't know. That was so stupid. (Just shaking my head.)
9. I'm really glad I got to see Kate give her big brother a kiss on the cheek. That is really what matters.
10. I think I'll just call my Mama and talk to her about how much I have to do.
Some of these are said with love, some with sarcasm, and some with down right envy. I'll let you be the judge.
I do have to say that on days like this, I am so thankful for a Savior that keeps me in his hands and gives me strength. His love never leaves me and never disappoints me.
1. All of my friends with nice clean houses and laundry put up and wonderfully homemade supper cooked, you really make me internally ill.
2. Maybe I should get a job, and put these crazy people in day care.
3. I think I'll just take the kids to play in the sprinkler, and not worry about the house. I mean it will just be this way again tomorrow. (Kind of serious about just ditching these responsibilities and enjoying my babies.)
4. Ahahaha! *Evil laugh* My kids don't believe I'll do it. ahhahahahaa
5. Oh yes telemarketer, of course I have a few minutes to talk to you. Just what I wanted to do with my time.
6. Man, I love this toe nail polish. It looks so natural. (Happy thought of the day.)
7.Well, I hope you are enjoying that beach vacation.
8. You remember that time I got in that fight on Facebook about that with some woman I don't know. That was so stupid. (Just shaking my head.)
9. I'm really glad I got to see Kate give her big brother a kiss on the cheek. That is really what matters.
10. I think I'll just call my Mama and talk to her about how much I have to do.
Some of these are said with love, some with sarcasm, and some with down right envy. I'll let you be the judge.
I do have to say that on days like this, I am so thankful for a Savior that keeps me in his hands and gives me strength. His love never leaves me and never disappoints me.
Isaiah 40:30-31
New International Version (NIV)
30 Even youths grow tired and weary,
and young men stumble and fall;
31 but those who hope in the Lord
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
and young men stumble and fall;
31 but those who hope in the Lord
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint.
Thursday, June 14, 2012
If I am being honest.....
You know how you get those questions that the people asking don't really want an answer or that you don't really feel like answering truthfully. I get asked all the time, "How do you do it?" I always say something like well I love my life, so it is really more fun than anything else. (Which is a true statement. I do love my life, my babies, my husband, my responsibilities, my friends, and my family.) The part I don't really tell everybody is that on a daily basis something either has or is likely to go wrong. So here is my attempt to be completely honest with you.
If I am being honest I will tell you that I fight with my husband. I know you may be surprised at that given that I'm so sweet and charming, and he is so admirable and caring. HA! HA! Yes, it is very true. We can really let each other have it over some of the dumbest things. I have noticed that the longer we have been married we choose our arguments better, and they are fewer and farther between, but on occasion either one of us can very easily make the other one absolutely explode with frustration.
If I am being honest I will tell you that my kids are little lunatics. I mean verifiable crazy people. They do things like attack another person over a plastic piece of fruit. They flip the breaker for the airconditioner, so that their daddy has to study the mechanics of a lady's body while sweating like he has been running a marathon. They sit in the kitchen eating dog food. They watch their mama clean up a room full of toys only to empty every box in their bedroom five minutes later. (WHO DOES THAT??) They color with permanent marker on their grandmother's furniture and knock over her big tall grandfather clock that is a family heirloom. They are nuts and are taking me down with them.
If I am being honest I will tell you that nothing in this world will make me angrier than if someone compromises the stength of my little core family. I won't say much about this, but I will tell you that up until a few years ago, I was a very naive girl. I thought that if you were nice to people they will be nice to you. They will respect you. I know that sounds so juvenile, but I really believed that. I have recently discovered that if that still small quiet voice is telling you that someone is up to no good, or that someone has bad intentions for you. LISTEN! I was under the impression that I needed to be accepting of everyone no matter what moral system they followed. I have learned the hard way that some people just can't be trusted, and do not have your best interest at heart, and if I'm being honest, I have found a strength in me that I wasn't sure I had. I'm really happy about that.
Hope you guys have a great weekend and thank you for reading my blog. I love it when people tell me that they read something on my blog. I know how many people are reading it, but I don't know who, so it is nice to hear that some of you that I love are check it from time to time. Until next time!
If I am being honest I will tell you that I fight with my husband. I know you may be surprised at that given that I'm so sweet and charming, and he is so admirable and caring. HA! HA! Yes, it is very true. We can really let each other have it over some of the dumbest things. I have noticed that the longer we have been married we choose our arguments better, and they are fewer and farther between, but on occasion either one of us can very easily make the other one absolutely explode with frustration.
If I am being honest I will tell you that my kids are little lunatics. I mean verifiable crazy people. They do things like attack another person over a plastic piece of fruit. They flip the breaker for the airconditioner, so that their daddy has to study the mechanics of a lady's body while sweating like he has been running a marathon. They sit in the kitchen eating dog food. They watch their mama clean up a room full of toys only to empty every box in their bedroom five minutes later. (WHO DOES THAT??) They color with permanent marker on their grandmother's furniture and knock over her big tall grandfather clock that is a family heirloom. They are nuts and are taking me down with them.
If I am being honest I will tell you that nothing in this world will make me angrier than if someone compromises the stength of my little core family. I won't say much about this, but I will tell you that up until a few years ago, I was a very naive girl. I thought that if you were nice to people they will be nice to you. They will respect you. I know that sounds so juvenile, but I really believed that. I have recently discovered that if that still small quiet voice is telling you that someone is up to no good, or that someone has bad intentions for you. LISTEN! I was under the impression that I needed to be accepting of everyone no matter what moral system they followed. I have learned the hard way that some people just can't be trusted, and do not have your best interest at heart, and if I'm being honest, I have found a strength in me that I wasn't sure I had. I'm really happy about that.
Hope you guys have a great weekend and thank you for reading my blog. I love it when people tell me that they read something on my blog. I know how many people are reading it, but I don't know who, so it is nice to hear that some of you that I love are check it from time to time. Until next time!
Sunday, June 10, 2012
Zachary Ryan Turns 30....
Okay, so a certain set of triplets that I know are turning 30 in two days. Can you believe it? 30 years old. It seems like yesterday they were turning 18, and all headed in different directions of the world. Look at where time has taken us. I'm so blessed to be apart of their life. I was the first one that messed up their trio, then came Thiago, and now Ashley. I was going to take this chance to say very publicly how much I love each one of them in their own way.
Amber is such a wonderful mother and wife. Most importantly, she has grown into such a beautiful Christian woman. I admire her wisdom and commitment to our Lord. Of course, it is obvious how hard she has worked for her career, and how she still works hard to provide for her family. She and Thiago are creating such a happy home for Ava and any babies that are to come. Amber started off being a friend and now she is a sister, and I wouldn't want anybody else to be an aunt to my babies.
Now, Zebulon. Zeb is probably one of the most tender hearted people I know. He has a way of feeling compassion toward people that is humbling. Zeb has overcome so many trials and tribulations to be the hard working man that he is now. He is creating a home with Ashley, and I want nothing but the best for the two of them. Zeb started off being a prom date (That's right people. I went to prom with him our junior year and then I snagged Zach our senior year. I was such a lucky girl to go to prom with both the Cooper boys!) and now he is a brother.
And then there is my Zach. I don't really want to turn this into a mush fest, so I'll just say that I could not have asked for a better person to spend my life with. It is absolutely true that God knew what I needed and gave it to me. I think that as more and more time goes by I see why God put us in each other's lives. If I'm being honest, I didn't even completely understand the diamond I was getting when I married Zach. He went from being just someone to play Phase 10 with to a husband, a baby daddy, and the best companion in the world.
Amber is such a wonderful mother and wife. Most importantly, she has grown into such a beautiful Christian woman. I admire her wisdom and commitment to our Lord. Of course, it is obvious how hard she has worked for her career, and how she still works hard to provide for her family. She and Thiago are creating such a happy home for Ava and any babies that are to come. Amber started off being a friend and now she is a sister, and I wouldn't want anybody else to be an aunt to my babies.
Now, Zebulon. Zeb is probably one of the most tender hearted people I know. He has a way of feeling compassion toward people that is humbling. Zeb has overcome so many trials and tribulations to be the hard working man that he is now. He is creating a home with Ashley, and I want nothing but the best for the two of them. Zeb started off being a prom date (That's right people. I went to prom with him our junior year and then I snagged Zach our senior year. I was such a lucky girl to go to prom with both the Cooper boys!) and now he is a brother.
And then there is my Zach. I don't really want to turn this into a mush fest, so I'll just say that I could not have asked for a better person to spend my life with. It is absolutely true that God knew what I needed and gave it to me. I think that as more and more time goes by I see why God put us in each other's lives. If I'm being honest, I didn't even completely understand the diamond I was getting when I married Zach. He went from being just someone to play Phase 10 with to a husband, a baby daddy, and the best companion in the world.
Thursday, May 31, 2012
ReCOOPing with Walkers
My sweet, sweet, mama had to have surgery. She has a brand spanking new hip! Now, let me tell you how this effects ME! I spent a few days away from my babies in the hospital with the lady. I have been washing, cooking, and cleaning for the parents. Poor sweet fluffy dog Bella has also recently had her lady parts sealed shut, so I have been lifting her and putting her down. Spent the day with in-laws, spent a day with my bestie seeing our other bestie's new baby, and spent a little time with some Gilfoils. I have had such a wonderful two weeks getting to be with my family, serving my mama in anyway I can, and getting to see some of the peopleI love the most. I am ready to take my babies home for a few days so that Lee can play his last Tee ball game. We will return to help Mama on Monday, which is the most important thing to Lee. Here we come Zachary Ryan. Better get your rest tonight!
Monday, May 14, 2012
Oh, How Times Have Changed
***This was written last week. The babies turned two Saturday!***
So this time two years ago, I had the life! I had one baby in my house, two babies still safely inside me incubating, and I was on house rest, which basically meant the doctor didn't want me to work. Lee Cooper was two years old and that was work, but nothing like what was to come. DUH DUH DUH!!!! (I mean that as in doom and gloom, not like airhead.) Anyway, the babies will be two on Saturday, and it has caused me to think about things that have changed in my life over the past two years. It has also reminded me of the fact that I must be a daily joke to the One above. I mean if I had to give advice to a mother expecting twins, I would say organize, organize, organize. There is the humor in all of this. If you know me at all, then you know that organizing is probably not a strength of mine. Well, it wasn't anyway. Here are few things that I have to do just to keep an illusion that I am a mom that has it all together.
1. Make list of things. I have to write everything down. Groceries, chores, important dates, everything.
2. I have things that I do every week that are the same every week.
Monday-Clean house thoroughly after the weekend, laundry, trash day.
Tuesday-laundry, sweep, pick up toys, make beds, mop sticky parts of the floor, grocery store.
Wednesday- laundry, sweep,pick up toys, make beds, handle the business of bills and paper work.
Thursday-Clean house again to get ready for the weekend, wash sheets, laundry.
Friday- Special fun with the kids. Even if it is playing outside all morning. I try to put everything down on Friday morning and do something special.
3. When I go to the store, I park beside the buggies, even if this means a long walk to the front door. I also try my best to find the big buggies with the places for kids to ride. I have left the store before because I could not find the big cart, and I just gave up.
4. When getting the kids dressed, I lay everything out first. There is nothing worse than being in the middle of trying to get clothes on a screaming kid and not being able to find what you need.
5. When loading the kids up in the car, grab a kid and go straight to the car seat behind driver seat. Buckle them completely in so they can't make an escape. Grab second kid and go to the back carseat. Buckle them in so they can't make an escape. Yell at four year old that he has had ample amount of time to put is little arms through the carseat straps and that I shouldn't have to be waiting on him to do this. Buckle him in and then go buckle myself in. I have been headed out of the driveway and Lee yell up to me, "UHHH, Mama. You forgot something." He will be riding free in the car, and this CAN NOT happen!
6. I rotate the things that I cook. This sounds pretty boring, but it works for us. I cook four times a week and the other days we eat left overs. I have 8 weeks worth of menus then we just rotate. Every two months we start back over at week one. This works and makes it much easier for me. For breakfast, I make a warm breakfast on Monday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. The other days are poptarts, cereal, or breakfast bars. Eat it and enjoy it. No complaints will be heard or accepted!
Most of all the thing I try to remember is that unless it is life threatening.....it will be okay. If I'm running late, it will be okay. If the kids look like they have been to a tattoo parlor, it will be okay. If I don't have time to make the beds, it will be okay. If Lee is reorganizing the den furniture, it will be okay. (However, not appreciated!) If Kate potties in my room, it will be okay. If my house is full of laughter, talking, playing, running, love, tickles, and giggles, we will all be okay, and one day we will look back at this chaos and smile and say thank you Lord for the memories!
So this time two years ago, I had the life! I had one baby in my house, two babies still safely inside me incubating, and I was on house rest, which basically meant the doctor didn't want me to work. Lee Cooper was two years old and that was work, but nothing like what was to come. DUH DUH DUH!!!! (I mean that as in doom and gloom, not like airhead.) Anyway, the babies will be two on Saturday, and it has caused me to think about things that have changed in my life over the past two years. It has also reminded me of the fact that I must be a daily joke to the One above. I mean if I had to give advice to a mother expecting twins, I would say organize, organize, organize. There is the humor in all of this. If you know me at all, then you know that organizing is probably not a strength of mine. Well, it wasn't anyway. Here are few things that I have to do just to keep an illusion that I am a mom that has it all together.
1. Make list of things. I have to write everything down. Groceries, chores, important dates, everything.
2. I have things that I do every week that are the same every week.
Monday-Clean house thoroughly after the weekend, laundry, trash day.
Tuesday-laundry, sweep, pick up toys, make beds, mop sticky parts of the floor, grocery store.
Wednesday- laundry, sweep,pick up toys, make beds, handle the business of bills and paper work.
Thursday-Clean house again to get ready for the weekend, wash sheets, laundry.
Friday- Special fun with the kids. Even if it is playing outside all morning. I try to put everything down on Friday morning and do something special.
3. When I go to the store, I park beside the buggies, even if this means a long walk to the front door. I also try my best to find the big buggies with the places for kids to ride. I have left the store before because I could not find the big cart, and I just gave up.
4. When getting the kids dressed, I lay everything out first. There is nothing worse than being in the middle of trying to get clothes on a screaming kid and not being able to find what you need.
5. When loading the kids up in the car, grab a kid and go straight to the car seat behind driver seat. Buckle them completely in so they can't make an escape. Grab second kid and go to the back carseat. Buckle them in so they can't make an escape. Yell at four year old that he has had ample amount of time to put is little arms through the carseat straps and that I shouldn't have to be waiting on him to do this. Buckle him in and then go buckle myself in. I have been headed out of the driveway and Lee yell up to me, "UHHH, Mama. You forgot something." He will be riding free in the car, and this CAN NOT happen!
6. I rotate the things that I cook. This sounds pretty boring, but it works for us. I cook four times a week and the other days we eat left overs. I have 8 weeks worth of menus then we just rotate. Every two months we start back over at week one. This works and makes it much easier for me. For breakfast, I make a warm breakfast on Monday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. The other days are poptarts, cereal, or breakfast bars. Eat it and enjoy it. No complaints will be heard or accepted!
Most of all the thing I try to remember is that unless it is life threatening.....it will be okay. If I'm running late, it will be okay. If the kids look like they have been to a tattoo parlor, it will be okay. If I don't have time to make the beds, it will be okay. If Lee is reorganizing the den furniture, it will be okay. (However, not appreciated!) If Kate potties in my room, it will be okay. If my house is full of laughter, talking, playing, running, love, tickles, and giggles, we will all be okay, and one day we will look back at this chaos and smile and say thank you Lord for the memories!
 |
| Two years ago |
 |
| Best things that ever happen to me. |
 |
| First day home from the hospital |
Monday, May 7, 2012
Yeah, I Said That
Today was a fairly normal day at the Cooper house. I mean there were no traumatic experiences, and no one was hurt beyond minor scrapes and scratches. HOLLA!!! I count it a success everyday that I can say that and go to bed at night thanking the dear Lord that he gave me these beautiful babies and that we survived another day. Which I should say that I always thank Him for my babies, I just sometimes beg Him for more energy and wisdom. With that being said, I was thinking about some of the things that I actually said to those beautiful babies, and yes they are sure to need therapy. I decided to share just a few with you.
"Quit stealing dough out of the refrigerator. I promise, Lee, I will feed you!"
"No, you can't eat that it is still hot."
"Okay, just sit there and cry. CRY CRY CRY. AHHH"
"Lee, please please go get the broom out of the van."
"When, will your daddy learn to pick his own shoes up."
"You are my best friend too."
"What is wrong with you people?"
"What do you mean you see a fire?" (This was said by Lee as he is playing in his room. He started yelling fire and then when I take off running to his room he tells me he was just pretending.)
"No more screaming in this house." (This was said in a slightly elevated voice.)
"Put your balls in that bucket."
"I don't think we really need a base drum. Maybe one day."
"Quit slamming the door."
"Close the door."
"I love you baby."
"Quit scratching your sister with the dish scrubber."
"Will you come scratch my back with the dish scrubber."
"No! No! You can't unplug the dishwasher."
"Don't eat that diaper." (Said to Jake.)
"You look pretty, pretty, baby girl!"
"Kate, please put mommy's phone back on the counter and close the curtain and let me finish my shower."
"Do y'all want to watch Nick Jr."
"Lay there and watch your shows. You don't have to sleep."
"Okay, I'll lay down with you. You little mush face."
"NOOOOOO!! STopp! Waitt!"
"Oh well, we missed the garbage man."
"No that isn't guacamole that is old yogurt."
"Please don't drag the wet mop through the dirt pile."
"Agent land is a cool place to live, Lee. Now can we clean it up a little."
"I had a great day, babe. How was your day?"
Hope y'all have a great week!
"Quit stealing dough out of the refrigerator. I promise, Lee, I will feed you!"
"No, you can't eat that it is still hot."
"Okay, just sit there and cry. CRY CRY CRY. AHHH"
"Lee, please please go get the broom out of the van."
"When, will your daddy learn to pick his own shoes up."
"You are my best friend too."
"What is wrong with you people?"
"What do you mean you see a fire?" (This was said by Lee as he is playing in his room. He started yelling fire and then when I take off running to his room he tells me he was just pretending.)
"No more screaming in this house." (This was said in a slightly elevated voice.)
"Put your balls in that bucket."
"I don't think we really need a base drum. Maybe one day."
"Quit slamming the door."
"Close the door."
"I love you baby."
"Quit scratching your sister with the dish scrubber."
"Will you come scratch my back with the dish scrubber."
"No! No! You can't unplug the dishwasher."
"Don't eat that diaper." (Said to Jake.)
"You look pretty, pretty, baby girl!"
"Kate, please put mommy's phone back on the counter and close the curtain and let me finish my shower."
"Do y'all want to watch Nick Jr."
"Lay there and watch your shows. You don't have to sleep."
"Okay, I'll lay down with you. You little mush face."
"NOOOOOO!! STopp! Waitt!"
"Oh well, we missed the garbage man."
"No that isn't guacamole that is old yogurt."
"Please don't drag the wet mop through the dirt pile."
"Agent land is a cool place to live, Lee. Now can we clean it up a little."
"I had a great day, babe. How was your day?"
 |
| Makes everything worth while. Love them. |
Hope y'all have a great week!
Thursday, May 3, 2012
A "Weighty" Issue
Okay, so last summer I started Diet Center. Basically, I watched how many starches I ate, ate lots of veggies and fruit, and was sure to exercise. By Christmas, I had lost 60lbs. Yay me! Since Christmas, however, I have gained about 20lbs back. Scary! Yesterday, I started back. I walked my 2 miles and did good on the diet. It is just always going to be something that I deal with. The main thing to me is I want to be a good example for my kids. I want to teach them that you have to exercise to stay healthy.
I guess I have always been "fat." I just didn't know it until the fifth grade. My mama and daddy had done a pretty good job at keeping that little secret from me. They always made me feel beautiful even at a young age. I can still remember the exact day that I found out that I wasn't like all the other "little" girls. We were playing kick ball in the gym, and it was my turn to kick. This was a bad enough day already. I hated kick ball! When you never make it to first base, it really isn't all that fun. Anyway, the pitcher on the other team didn't know who to pitch the ball to, and a kid said, "Throw it to her. The one with the pot belly." Ouch! I looked around to see if anybody else had heard. They did. Oh dear Lord get me out of here. Which he did. I was out by first base and was able to go back to the back of the line and sorta blend in. Now, I have no ill feelings toward the little boy that told me I was "fat" because he was just a kid too. He didn't know the damage he would be doing. The funny thing is that I never talked to anybody about it. I didn't want anybody to feel sorry for me. (I still don't, so it is kind of hard to share now.) I don't know why I didn't tell my mama though. She would have made it better.
Another time that I was reminded of my imperfection was when an older boy made fun of me from the back of the bus. He was a year or two older than my sister, so I didn't know why he was picking on me. That was maybe the worse. When I got off the bus at the church, my mama wasn't there to pick me up, so I quickly started walking home through the alleys so that nobody would see me. To my surprise, when I got to the corner of the street, there was that boy's mama in a truck with the boy. She was offering a ride. I said, "No, that's okay. I'm almost home, and I don't really mind the walk." She said that she insisted and to hop in. It was a single cab truck, so I had to sit next to the boy. Secretly, I thought it was kind of funny because the kid was a nervous wreck that I was going to tell on him. I also was thinking, "See you scum bag. Even though you are 5 to 6 years older than me. I am more mature than you will ever be. I'm not going to tell on you. I'm not going to get you in trouble because I don't really care what you think of me." That is what I told myself anyway.
There are other little moments or flashes of being picked on as a child that I remember. There was one time after I had lost a bunch of weight, was a cheerleader, and once again thought that I was finally like all the other pretty girls, when a girl said about me, "Of course Elizabeth is eating pizza. She is always eating." I only know this was said because I was standing behind the group of girls and heard my name. I heard the laughter and noticed that my best friend wasn't laughing. This told me something was going on, I was the target, and it wasn't nice. I made my buddy tell me later what was said. She really didn't want to tell me, but she did. She was so sweet about it to. She said, "Elizabeth, so and so was just being mean because she is jealous of you because you are one of the sweetest funniest people in our class, and she is not." I'll never forget that feeling of knowing that my best friend felt that way about me. It made me not really care what the old meanie had said.
I guess I have always been "fat." I just didn't know it until the fifth grade. My mama and daddy had done a pretty good job at keeping that little secret from me. They always made me feel beautiful even at a young age. I can still remember the exact day that I found out that I wasn't like all the other "little" girls. We were playing kick ball in the gym, and it was my turn to kick. This was a bad enough day already. I hated kick ball! When you never make it to first base, it really isn't all that fun. Anyway, the pitcher on the other team didn't know who to pitch the ball to, and a kid said, "Throw it to her. The one with the pot belly." Ouch! I looked around to see if anybody else had heard. They did. Oh dear Lord get me out of here. Which he did. I was out by first base and was able to go back to the back of the line and sorta blend in. Now, I have no ill feelings toward the little boy that told me I was "fat" because he was just a kid too. He didn't know the damage he would be doing. The funny thing is that I never talked to anybody about it. I didn't want anybody to feel sorry for me. (I still don't, so it is kind of hard to share now.) I don't know why I didn't tell my mama though. She would have made it better.
Another time that I was reminded of my imperfection was when an older boy made fun of me from the back of the bus. He was a year or two older than my sister, so I didn't know why he was picking on me. That was maybe the worse. When I got off the bus at the church, my mama wasn't there to pick me up, so I quickly started walking home through the alleys so that nobody would see me. To my surprise, when I got to the corner of the street, there was that boy's mama in a truck with the boy. She was offering a ride. I said, "No, that's okay. I'm almost home, and I don't really mind the walk." She said that she insisted and to hop in. It was a single cab truck, so I had to sit next to the boy. Secretly, I thought it was kind of funny because the kid was a nervous wreck that I was going to tell on him. I also was thinking, "See you scum bag. Even though you are 5 to 6 years older than me. I am more mature than you will ever be. I'm not going to tell on you. I'm not going to get you in trouble because I don't really care what you think of me." That is what I told myself anyway.
There are other little moments or flashes of being picked on as a child that I remember. There was one time after I had lost a bunch of weight, was a cheerleader, and once again thought that I was finally like all the other pretty girls, when a girl said about me, "Of course Elizabeth is eating pizza. She is always eating." I only know this was said because I was standing behind the group of girls and heard my name. I heard the laughter and noticed that my best friend wasn't laughing. This told me something was going on, I was the target, and it wasn't nice. I made my buddy tell me later what was said. She really didn't want to tell me, but she did. She was so sweet about it to. She said, "Elizabeth, so and so was just being mean because she is jealous of you because you are one of the sweetest funniest people in our class, and she is not." I'll never forget that feeling of knowing that my best friend felt that way about me. It made me not really care what the old meanie had said.
The only reason I'm sharing this is to say, that this is something I have always dealt with that I feel like I'm finally figuring out. Most overweight people have major issues. I do not. It is just something that has always been. My sister and I were talking about why we can't just accept ourselves for who we are. (She is a bean pole by the way, and is currently running so she can be in shape. I'm so proud of her commitment to it.) These are my goals: get healthy, teach my kids healthy habits, accept myself the way I am. (Which shouldn't be hard when you are as smoking hot as I truly am!!!)
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| Elizabeth Lee |
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| I am fearfully and wonderfully made (even with no make-up) because Christ made me. |
Monday, April 30, 2012
Date Night
I found out at Lee's school party that the Fresh Beat Band was coming to Shreveport. This is a very talented group of twenty somethings that sing and dance on Nick Jr. Almost every time Z watches this show with Lee Cooper he says, "Who are these people? What is wrong with them? They seem a little off." I always laugh at him because to him it would be torture if someone told him he was going to have to sing and dance for a bunch of kids. The thought of it cracks me up. Anyway, I decided I would try to take Lee to see them. We went. We had a great time together. Lee is always a little nervous when he experiences something new for the first time. He sits back and takes it all in until he feels comfortable with his surroundings. (He is his father's son!!) I did make some observations last night.
#1. Some people do not mind breaking in line to get a Fresh Beat Band t-shirt. Even when their child points out to them that they have bumped in line. (This was not me.)
#2. Some people smile at everyone they see in a very crowded place to make sure they know that they are trying not to break in front of anybody. (This was me.)
#3. The Fresh Beat Band kids must be rich or they are getting taken by Nick Jr. because everything cost a small fortune.
#4. Daddies that sing every word of "It's Been a Great Day" to their daughters is somewhat enduring, but also a little hilarious.
#5. Mommies that get a little teary eyed at a concert while singing, "You Can be Anything You Put Your Mind Too" are just weird and way too sentimental. (I'm not saying who this was. I plead the fifth. Of course, I did not cry at a concert with my four year old.)
#6. My four year old is a dancing maniac! Very little of it is on beat, and even less of it is anything I have ever seen before, but it is absolutely my favorite dancing to watch!
Here are some videos of Lee Cooper telling you about his date, and some pictures too.
This post was very, very irritating, so don't judge!!!
#1. Some people do not mind breaking in line to get a Fresh Beat Band t-shirt. Even when their child points out to them that they have bumped in line. (This was not me.)
#2. Some people smile at everyone they see in a very crowded place to make sure they know that they are trying not to break in front of anybody. (This was me.)
#3. The Fresh Beat Band kids must be rich or they are getting taken by Nick Jr. because everything cost a small fortune.
#4. Daddies that sing every word of "It's Been a Great Day" to their daughters is somewhat enduring, but also a little hilarious.
#5. Mommies that get a little teary eyed at a concert while singing, "You Can be Anything You Put Your Mind Too" are just weird and way too sentimental. (I'm not saying who this was. I plead the fifth. Of course, I did not cry at a concert with my four year old.)
#6. My four year old is a dancing maniac! Very little of it is on beat, and even less of it is anything I have ever seen before, but it is absolutely my favorite dancing to watch!
Here are some videos of Lee Cooper telling you about his date, and some pictures too.
Date Night w/ Lee Cooper (Take One)
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| Dancing to the Fresh Beats |
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| Waiting with excitement |
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| Self-portraits. Kate is posing, and Wade is trying to focus. |
This post was very, very irritating, so don't judge!!!
Thursday, April 26, 2012
Oh the Little Monsters
Ok, so a quick blog about some of my day yesterday. Just random things that happened.
So when we first got up yesterday morning, I was telling Lee that today was his Spring Party. Yay! (Translation, Mama has ALOT to do this morning before 10:10.) Well, typically, Lee was not wanting to get up and move. He doesn't want me to brush his hair anymore because he "don't look good when I part his hair." (Actual quote from my 4 year old. I'm in trouble with this one!) I poured some dry Apple Jacks in a cup for him to eat in the car on the way to school. (He doesn't like milk with his cereal. I promise I have tried to give him milk with it and he WILL NOT EAT IT.) He says to me, "Oh great Mama! You made it wet." I say back, "Lee I don't care if it is red. It taste good and you really need to eat things that are different colors. (I was thinking even though this is sugar coated cereal, here is the time to teach him the importance of color in your diet.) He looked at me like I was crazy, and insisted that he doesn't eat WET cereal. I still started listing off all of the good things that were red that we eat. Strawberries, apples, tomatoes.....Finally, he says, "MAMA, IT IS WET NOT RED!" (Well, whatever. I was really on a roll with the whole diet colors and you just ruined it. You little monster.) I quickly traded bowls with Kate whose was wonderfully dry, and we were off to school.
Now, after dropping Lee off. I debated at the stop sign for a little while. To go to Sonic for a big diet coke or to return home. (I really don't have much time.) I tell myself that I deserve the Diet Coke and to "make time for me." I head to the Sonic order my drink, which takes longer than it should, but okay. Get the drink. Start pulling back onto the busy Shreveport street, when I take my first big gulp at the red light. It has cherry in it. I HATE cherry. (Whatever, it's red and I don't like them!) So now do I go back and get them to fix it or do I just go home. (I don't have much time.) I decide it was nearly two dollars. I need to go get it right, so I can enjoy my drink. Turn around, which takes five minutes to make a loop in Shreveport. Tell the Sonic girl that they have made a mistake and put cherry in my Diet Coke. The say they will send another one out, which takes too long. I finally get my Diet Coke and tell the girl thank you and try to smile extra so she won't think I'm mad. (I AM mad.)
Now, we are back home and I'm drinking my Diet Coke. (Oh, it was a good one.) When I noticed that Kate now has the Diet Coke, I quickly go to get it from her. Her sweet baby brother notices that his sister is getting to swig on a Mama drink, so he goes to get it. Kate drops the drink, and Wade then rams the straw through the bottom of the cup. My Diet Coke is now all over the floor and trickling through the house as I run to the sink with it. (Uh....you little monsters!)
Okay, so Lee's party is today. We have to get ready and go to the store to get a fruit tray. I'm running around the house like a crazy lady. Getting things a little straightened before we leave and getting babies dressed. We all get dressed. ( I must say that I look pretty cute! Feeling good about that!) Get to the school. Get the kids loaded in the stroller. (They are looking pretty cute, too. Feeling good about that, also.) Rush into the school office. "Hey Mrs. T. We are here for the party." The school secretary has a very puzzled look on her face. "What party?" Well, duh the spring party. "Mrs. Monk's Spring Party." I said oh so happily. "Honey, the parties are tomorrow." I faked a laugh and said, "OH! I guess I'm early."
Also, last night while I'm cooking supper. Lee asked me, "Mama, where do babies come from?" I ignored this question. "I mean Mama, how do they get in your tummy?" I start singing a silly song to the top of my lungs to try to distract. Nope. He persisted. I answered with, "Babies are gifts from God, Lee." (That have a no return policy.) Lee says, "I know that Mama, but how do they get in your tummy." The only thing I could think of was through your belly button. I knew I couldn't tell him that, but of course I wasn't going to tell my 4yr old the TRUTH! Anyway, after several questions that I ignored about babies in Mama's tummies. He asked, "So how do they get there?" I turned around to him and said, "Oh Lee. God gives us babies, and they are such wonderful gifts, and he puts them in Mamas' tummies very, very carefully." To my surprised this answer worked. He walked out of the kitchen saying, "Oh. very, very, carefully."
This is just the highlights. There was also dirty diaper fiascos. Screaming fits. Hair bow dilemmas. You get the point.
I wanted to tell all of you out there that I just started reading the book, "Heaven is for Real." If you haven't read this book, you should. It is really simple book to read, but it is truly amazing. I think sometimes we talk about heaven like yeah, yeah, yeah, it's that place we go when we die. However, it is a REAL place where people are. I can't wait to see Bebaw again. I also, can't wait to see the blood stained scars on my Jesus's hands, and see Him face to face.
So when we first got up yesterday morning, I was telling Lee that today was his Spring Party. Yay! (Translation, Mama has ALOT to do this morning before 10:10.) Well, typically, Lee was not wanting to get up and move. He doesn't want me to brush his hair anymore because he "don't look good when I part his hair." (Actual quote from my 4 year old. I'm in trouble with this one!) I poured some dry Apple Jacks in a cup for him to eat in the car on the way to school. (He doesn't like milk with his cereal. I promise I have tried to give him milk with it and he WILL NOT EAT IT.) He says to me, "Oh great Mama! You made it wet." I say back, "Lee I don't care if it is red. It taste good and you really need to eat things that are different colors. (I was thinking even though this is sugar coated cereal, here is the time to teach him the importance of color in your diet.) He looked at me like I was crazy, and insisted that he doesn't eat WET cereal. I still started listing off all of the good things that were red that we eat. Strawberries, apples, tomatoes.....Finally, he says, "MAMA, IT IS WET NOT RED!" (Well, whatever. I was really on a roll with the whole diet colors and you just ruined it. You little monster.) I quickly traded bowls with Kate whose was wonderfully dry, and we were off to school.
Now, after dropping Lee off. I debated at the stop sign for a little while. To go to Sonic for a big diet coke or to return home. (I really don't have much time.) I tell myself that I deserve the Diet Coke and to "make time for me." I head to the Sonic order my drink, which takes longer than it should, but okay. Get the drink. Start pulling back onto the busy Shreveport street, when I take my first big gulp at the red light. It has cherry in it. I HATE cherry. (Whatever, it's red and I don't like them!) So now do I go back and get them to fix it or do I just go home. (I don't have much time.) I decide it was nearly two dollars. I need to go get it right, so I can enjoy my drink. Turn around, which takes five minutes to make a loop in Shreveport. Tell the Sonic girl that they have made a mistake and put cherry in my Diet Coke. The say they will send another one out, which takes too long. I finally get my Diet Coke and tell the girl thank you and try to smile extra so she won't think I'm mad. (I AM mad.)
Now, we are back home and I'm drinking my Diet Coke. (Oh, it was a good one.) When I noticed that Kate now has the Diet Coke, I quickly go to get it from her. Her sweet baby brother notices that his sister is getting to swig on a Mama drink, so he goes to get it. Kate drops the drink, and Wade then rams the straw through the bottom of the cup. My Diet Coke is now all over the floor and trickling through the house as I run to the sink with it. (Uh....you little monsters!)
Okay, so Lee's party is today. We have to get ready and go to the store to get a fruit tray. I'm running around the house like a crazy lady. Getting things a little straightened before we leave and getting babies dressed. We all get dressed. ( I must say that I look pretty cute! Feeling good about that!) Get to the school. Get the kids loaded in the stroller. (They are looking pretty cute, too. Feeling good about that, also.) Rush into the school office. "Hey Mrs. T. We are here for the party." The school secretary has a very puzzled look on her face. "What party?" Well, duh the spring party. "Mrs. Monk's Spring Party." I said oh so happily. "Honey, the parties are tomorrow." I faked a laugh and said, "OH! I guess I'm early."
Also, last night while I'm cooking supper. Lee asked me, "Mama, where do babies come from?" I ignored this question. "I mean Mama, how do they get in your tummy?" I start singing a silly song to the top of my lungs to try to distract. Nope. He persisted. I answered with, "Babies are gifts from God, Lee." (That have a no return policy.) Lee says, "I know that Mama, but how do they get in your tummy." The only thing I could think of was through your belly button. I knew I couldn't tell him that, but of course I wasn't going to tell my 4yr old the TRUTH! Anyway, after several questions that I ignored about babies in Mama's tummies. He asked, "So how do they get there?" I turned around to him and said, "Oh Lee. God gives us babies, and they are such wonderful gifts, and he puts them in Mamas' tummies very, very carefully." To my surprised this answer worked. He walked out of the kitchen saying, "Oh. very, very, carefully."
This is just the highlights. There was also dirty diaper fiascos. Screaming fits. Hair bow dilemmas. You get the point.
I wanted to tell all of you out there that I just started reading the book, "Heaven is for Real." If you haven't read this book, you should. It is really simple book to read, but it is truly amazing. I think sometimes we talk about heaven like yeah, yeah, yeah, it's that place we go when we die. However, it is a REAL place where people are. I can't wait to see Bebaw again. I also, can't wait to see the blood stained scars on my Jesus's hands, and see Him face to face.
Monday, April 23, 2012
People I Love
When I first joined Facebook, people were writing notes about 25 things about them. I did it then, but that was before I had children. So much of my life has changed now. I was going to write 25 more things about me, but I just couldn't shake the feeling of it being a little narcissistic. However, I have decided to write about people in my life that mean the world to me. I find complete fulfillment in being a wife, daughter, mother, sister, friend. I'm not sure what that says about me that I don't feel driven to have a career, but I love being around the people I love. I just wish there was more that I could do for them. This is probably a pretty obvious list, but I'm an obvious kinda person.
1. God. He is the greatest constant in my life. I feel like my relationship with Him is always changing. Sometimes I feel closer to Him and feel His presence stronger than other times. I know that this is because of my weaknesses and not because of His. He is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. I am so thankful for his faithfulness to me, and everyday I strive to be faithful to Him. I also pray that in someway I can be used to bring Him glory and honor. There is such a peace I have in my life and that comes from Him.
2. Zachary Ryan. I don't really want to get too sappy here. I will say that he is my best friend. Nobody makes me laugh more than Z. He also is the first person I turn to when I need advice or someone to listen to my stories. I don't want to lead you to believe that our relationship is perfect. We are real people with real faults. Our relationship has been through a lot in its 12 years. We have been separated by war and obligations. Surviving the Marine Corps was just the beginning. If you have ever been in a relationship with a medical student, then you know how hard this can be on a relationship. I don't think people understand how stressful it is to be a med student. There were weeks when I would get a ten minute conversation about his day, and that is about it. I will say though through it all we have never lost sight of our friendship and our desire to be with each other. I love the boy, and he loves me. There is such comfort in knowing that we are equally devoted to each other, and I am so thankful that he decided to share his life with me. I can't wait to see what is next for us because it keeps getting better and better.
2. Zachary Ryan. I don't really want to get too sappy here. I will say that he is my best friend. Nobody makes me laugh more than Z. He also is the first person I turn to when I need advice or someone to listen to my stories. I don't want to lead you to believe that our relationship is perfect. We are real people with real faults. Our relationship has been through a lot in its 12 years. We have been separated by war and obligations. Surviving the Marine Corps was just the beginning. If you have ever been in a relationship with a medical student, then you know how hard this can be on a relationship. I don't think people understand how stressful it is to be a med student. There were weeks when I would get a ten minute conversation about his day, and that is about it. I will say though through it all we have never lost sight of our friendship and our desire to be with each other. I love the boy, and he loves me. There is such comfort in knowing that we are equally devoted to each other, and I am so thankful that he decided to share his life with me. I can't wait to see what is next for us because it keeps getting better and better.
3. My parents and sister. I am one of the lucky ones. I have really great parents that I would not trade for anybody else in the world. We have always been a close family. We all like to be around each other. My parents have always been there for me. My mama is the person I can call to get sympathy and someone that will listen. My daddy is someone I can call for advice and solutions. I would be lost with out either one of them. My sister has been someone that I have admired my whole life. That is still true. She is the greatest mom and wife. She works so hard and has so much stress in her job. She still finds the time and energy to make sure her kids have the attention they need. I really don't know how she does everything she does. She is my friend, and I love her.
4. My children. I don't think I really need to tell you how much they mean to me. I think it is pretty clear. My life would be nothing without my babies.
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| Lee Bradford Cooper January 4, 2008 |
Lauren Kate Cooper Wade Harmon Cooper
May 12, 2010
5. Everybody else. There are so many people in my life that mean so much to me: grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, the family that I joined when I got married. I love all of my family and friends and so thankful that God has placed them in my life. I hope that I can give to them as much as they all give to me.
Thanks for stopping by and reading the blog. I get to see how many people read it everyday, and it is very exciting to me. It doesn't tell me who reads it. Just how many people look at it. Very glad y'all are stoping by to see us! Hope you have a great week, and now I must get to the laundry that has piled up over the weekend. Thanks again!!!
Thursday, April 19, 2012
The Crossroads
Z and I are at a crossroads in our life. Well, about to be. Well, in a year we will be, but for a mama that is married to a med student, that before that was married to a college student, and before that was married to a MARINE, this is EXCITING! He has decided what field of medicine he is going to practice. Well, he has it narrowed down. Who cares that the list of options still has about five things on it. What is important is there is something on the top of the list that has very high favorables for me. (That's what matters, right?!) Anyway, I'm excited, and I'm ready for the next move in our life. However, I find with that excitement brings large amounts of anxiety. Where will we live? Which residency program will Z like? How close or far away will that be from our family? What will schools be like for the kids? Will I need to go back to work? Is the van going to last through residency because there is already an odor when you get in it? You know....ANXIETY. Don't get me wrong. This is ultimately excitement, mixed with a dash of anxiety. I just really wish we could fast forward the next year and get on with the next chapter, so we can see how it turns out. Did you see that? What did I just do? The one thing I really dont want to do. Rush through a year of my life just because I want what is next like a spoiled child. When I say I just want this year to be over, I don't really mean that because this next year is going to be great. Z has a lot of time to be home, which will be wonderful, and I don't want the babies to get any bigger. So here's to the crossroads......I'm very excited for you, but you can wait until I spend some time with my family.
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
No Vacation for Mom
Okay, so here I am again. Trying to become a regular blogger. This time it's the real deal!
Z was on vacation last week and guess what?? He has a whole week left of time off! It has been so nice having him home with us, and honestly having his helping hands. However, last week I slipped into some form of denial that told me because he was home I also have the week off. This is NOT true. By Friday of last week, I thought I was going to go crazy! The house was a wreck, laundry was no longer confined to baskets, and dishes were piling up. I will not make this mistake again. Life as a stay-at-home-mom means that there are somethings that must get done no matter what. Just another lesson learned. In a future post, I'm going to make a list of all my little lessons learned. The internet will probably crash....don't think that can happen but you get my point.
Z was on vacation last week and guess what?? He has a whole week left of time off! It has been so nice having him home with us, and honestly having his helping hands. However, last week I slipped into some form of denial that told me because he was home I also have the week off. This is NOT true. By Friday of last week, I thought I was going to go crazy! The house was a wreck, laundry was no longer confined to baskets, and dishes were piling up. I will not make this mistake again. Life as a stay-at-home-mom means that there are somethings that must get done no matter what. Just another lesson learned. In a future post, I'm going to make a list of all my little lessons learned. The internet will probably crash....don't think that can happen but you get my point.
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| Easter 2012 |
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