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December 31, 2008
Happy B-day, Mrs. Potts
(Originally published by Nattie on December 31, 2003)
Another Birthday! Today it is my friend, Skipper's birthday. Happy Birthday, Mrs. Potts. (She is the pot and I am the kettle).
Love, Sister Kettle
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 10:07 AM | Comments (1)
December 30, 2008
April showers
(Originally published by Nattie on April 21, 2004)
We are getting our april showers. Actually I don't know that shower is the appropriate word. I think april the-sky-has-split-open-and-we-are-building-an-ark-ers would be more appropriate. No flooding yet. We needed the rain, but my son is running around singing, "rain, rain, go away" and wondering why the sky isn't listening to him. Then he has to ask me why over and over and over again. So if you see a woman running screaming down the street because someone asked her one too many "why" questions, that would be me. Don't worry, I'm sure my sanity will be restored at some point. Maybe when the kids are in college. Maybe.
Copyright Natalie Rose York
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 08:20 AM | Comments (0)
December 29, 2008
AACK!
(Originally published by Nattie on December 29, 2003)
I forgot my amiga's birthday! *slaps head* Go wish,Angie, a happy birthday. She is getting closer to the big 3-0!! I think this year she is 29 and holding. Happy Birthday, Amiga!
Copyright Natalie Rose York
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 08:51 AM | Comments (0)
December 27, 2008
The whiny nattie
(Originally published by Nattie on April 19, 2004)
...has taken over my body. So I might not post for a bit. I don't want to listen to myself whine and I doubt anyone else does either. LOL! So once I kick the whiny nattie out of residence, I'll try to post something inspiring or funny...or at least something not whiny.
Copyright Natalie Rose York
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 03:26 PM | Comments (0)
December 26, 2008
Answers
(Originally published by Nattie on April 17, 2004)
I know everyone else answered their questions in their comments section, but I like to be different so I'll answer them here. :-)
Chris asked:
1. How are you feeling? Pretty good minus bad blood pressure and allergies. At least my moods are fairly stable.
2. Are you going to homeschool your angels? Not formally. I'd love to, but don't think I have it in me and hubby isn't for it. He's of the mind that public school was fine for him so it is fine for his kids. I'm praying though. ;-)
3. Did you know that there is a new Miss Julia book out? Yes! I'm reading it right now—Miss Julia Meets Her Match by Ann B. Ross. I love Miss Julia.
Melissa got brave and asked:
1. Pretend you have one complete free hour. What do you do with it? I always feel like I should be cleaning, but lately if I have a free hour I go outside on my back patio. I sit in my plastic chair and prop my feet on the kids' little chair. I lean back, close my eyes and soak in the sun for a bit then I...read.
2. Who's your favorite author? Hmmm...all-time favorite, never written anything bad...Rosamunde Pilcher—hands down. But there are many others that I love just as much. :-) You know how it is.
3. You have one wish. What'll it be? Currently my one wish is to wake up one day and no longer have to take any medication and no longer be hampered by my extra weight. I'd just like wake up one day and unzip this fat suit. I can dream, can't I? :-)
Kim asked:
1. What shoes are you wearing right now? None. Just Gold Toe socks. Usually I go around barefoot and don't put shoes on till I have to go out the door. Flylady I am not.
2. If you had to do one or the other, which would you do, give up TV forever or give up the computer forever? That is a hard one. I'm becoming less and less enchanted with the TV. There are few shows I watch regularly. I would miss videos though. But the internet links me to my friends. So if I had to choose, I'd probably pitch the TV.
3. Favorite potato chip? Last night I tasted the best chip—Guacamole Doritos. Yummy.
Jeanne asked:
1. Have you seen "The Passion of the Christ"? Yes!
2. If so, how has it affected your outlook on life and your faith? Definitely. I can't even explain it.
3. What would you change about your life if you could? It sounds trite, but my weight. We aren't talking just a few pounds were talking major weight and it is slowing me down.
Naomi asked:
1. What's the craziest most scariest thing you've ever done? Getting married. Just kidding. Having kids? Okay, I'll try to be serious. I don't know that I've ever been crazy. I'm too...boring. At the time though, rock climbing seemed pretty scary. I didn't do the rope and rappeling thing. Just hands and hiking boots and it was exhilirating. I'd love to do it again.
2. Where do you go to get away from "IT" all? When I lived in California, I went to the beach. I've yet to find that place here. I do like to go to a B&N or a local coffeshop called Bixby's. I can sip my mocha and read to my heart's content and no one is yelling out, "Mommy!"
3. As a kid where you shy? Painfully. I still am. I have a hard time looking someone in the eyes if I don't know them.
Dana asked:
1. How high do your heels have to be before they become hazardous to your health? They don't even have to have heels to be dangerous. I'm a danger to myself at any altitude. :-)
2. When are you starting school? *sigh* I haven't told you gals, but hubby isn't being all that supportive. He doesn't understand the need for knowledge if it isn't going to lead to more money. So I'm going to try to just take a course at a time at a community college if I can find the money and continue to pray for God to change hubby's heart.
3. What do you want to major in when you go back to school? I'm torn between English, History and Christian Ministries. I really want to study Greek and Hebrew. I have felt called for a long time to the ministry, but I've been denying the call. We'll see where God leads.
Pattie asked:
1. Do you like the theatre? Love it! But we don't have much theatre here in Small Town, USA. When I lived in California, my mom had season tickets to a community theatre. I loved going with her. I also went to a "performing arts" junior high and enjoyed performing in musicals and plays.
2. You've tried a bunch of different journals--which one is your favorite? So far, I love the Rollabind journals. They are so versital. I have a black leather one and it is heaven.
3. What is your favorite Yankee Candle scent? I don't know if it is my favorite, but it is my old stand by if I don't know what flavor I want—Banana Nut Bread.
Copyright Natalie Rose York
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 08:15 AM | Comments (0)
December 25, 2008
Merry Christmas!
Thanks to each of you for honoring Natalie's memory and helping to keep it alive in your hearts and ours.
Peace on Earth, Good Will and Blessings to all!
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 12:37 AM | Comments (3)
December 24, 2008
Crazy Busy
(Originally published by Nattie on April 16, 2004)
I've been crazy busy in a weird sort of way, if that makes sense.
I continued my cleaning spree yesterday and tackled some big projects. I also spent a lot of time outside with the kids. Then I went to a Pampered Chef bridal party this morning. The rest of the day was spent outside. I read while the kids played. It was nice to take a break from cleaning. We are expecting some rain so I'll have plenty of time to continue my spree then.
I will be back Monday to answer my questions. So if you have any more throw 'em at me.
Copyright Natalie Rose York
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 09:00 AM | Comments (0)
December 23, 2008
Come one, come all...
(Originally published by Nattie on April 15, 2004)
and ask me THREE questions.
I found this on Heather's Site.
***************************************************************
I want everyone who reads this to ask me three questions, no more no less.
Ask me anything you want.
Then I want you to go to your journal, copy and paste this allowing your friends (including myself) to ask you anything.
***************************************************************
This could be dangerous. Very dangerous. Especially if Jojo gets involved.
TTFN,
Copyright Natalie Rose York
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 08:21 AM | Comments (0)
December 22, 2008
just swingin'
(Originally published by Nattie on April 14, 2004)
I'm trying to get back into the swing of things. Isn't it funny how a couple of days of illness can totally throw your house into disarray?! Well, there is a reason for that. God love him...my hubby.
Tuesday when I couldn't scrape myself off the bathroom floor I had my daughter bring me the phone and I called my hubby. He called the greats (the kids' great grandparents) and they took the kiddies for the day. So I had all day to puke as I pleased. Ha ha!
Then hubby took off work Wednesday. I wasn't puking anymore, but I was still weak and wasn't on solid food yet. Sometimes I wonder why I allow him to take the day off work because he does none of the work that I do in a normal day. I think he really thinks I sit on my tushy all day long.
So this morning I woke up to a double sink full of dishes, laundry that had bred to a the size of a small army in two short days, and general clutter. I'm still gaining my strength back, but so far today I've...
~ gone to the bank
~ gone to the grocery store
~ taken my son to speech therapy
~ taken the kids to the library
~ fixed lunch
~ fixed up an area for son's "new" Super Nintendo so it is out of my way (it was in the middle of my kitchen—aargh!)
~ taken out four bags of garbage and two boxes of clutter (this is hubby's "job" but I got tired of waiting for him to do it)
~ organized my CDs (hubby had knocked over the CD tower a while back and hadn't put it back together—like I said, God love him cause he's trying my nerves)
~ listed some old CDs that I don't listen to on half.com
~ decluttered my desk and surrounding area (a major hotspot)
~ done a load of dishes
~ done a million loads of laundry (okay, maybe not that many, but quite a few)
~ decluttered the top of the refrigerator
~ took a shower (cuz I was stinky after all that work)
Now I'm getting ready to fix dinner. Thank God for Hamburger Helper. The kids love it and ground chuck was on sale—buy one package, get one free (I feel like Kim).
I have a "Ready to Learn" workshop at the library and then home again for me. "Friends" is a repeat tonight, but the "American Idol" results show is on so I guess my evening won't be a total wash.
TTFN,
Copyright Natalie Rose York
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 08:34 AM | Comments (0)
December 20, 2008
Back from the dead
(Originally published by Nattie on April 13, 2004)
1. Grab the book nearest to you, turn to Page 18, find Line Four. Write down what it says. "We don't have to seek some other means of satisfaction or a substitute that never fills us." ~ From A Woman And Her God by Beth Moore and others.
2. Stretch your left arm out as far as you can. What do you touch first? A lamp shade.
3. What is the last thing you watched on TV? "American Idol" (I wish Quenton Tarantino wasn't a guest judge. I'm not a big fan of his)
4. Without looking, guess what time it is. 8:50 pm
5. Now look at the clock, what is the actual time? 8:53 pm
6. With the exception of the computer, what can you hear? The dryer and a commercial on tv
7. When did you last step outside? What were you doing. Went to get Chinese food. The first "real" food I've eaten in almost 48 hours.
8. Before you came to this website, what did you look at? I was reading Sara's Blog.
9. What are you wearing? Blue sport bra, white ribbed tank top, charcoal grey stretch pants, white Gold Toe socks and my flowered robe. Classy, eh?
10. Did you dream last night? I had weird post flu dreams. Nothing exciting.
11. When did you last laugh? When my son groaned and shouted, "Mom, I got killed." (he just inherited his dad's old Super Nintendo and he is learning the joys of Mario Brothers games)
12. What is on the walls of the room you are in? Too much stuff to be mentioned. I'm in my living room and I have loads of family pictures on the walls. And I do mean loads. I'm an amatuer photographer and my family members are my favorite props.
13. Seen anything weird lately? Pam Anderson before silicone overcame her body. She was actually prettier, IMO. (I was watching some silly show on ET)
14. What do you think of this quiz? It is...unique. :-)
15. What is the last film you saw? In the theater..."Lion King 1-1/2 (cute)
On tv..."Forget Paris" (one of my favorites)
Rental..."Something's Gotta Give" (loved it—want it)
16. If you became a multi-millionaire overnight, what would you buy first? After paying off my bills...I'd buy a house or a bookstore. Can't decide. I also always wanted to set a trust fund up for all my family members so they could pick out what they wanted.
17. Tell me something about you that I don't know. Dang...after that Dayquil episode where I spilled my guts I can't think of anything you don't know about me...hmmm...I don't like to clean, but I love the smell of bleach.
18. If you could change one thing about the world, regardless of guilt or politics, what would you do? I'd want world peace. LOL! Howz that for a beauty queen answer? Nah, I'd just banish nosehair, ear hair and chiggers.
19. Do you like to dance? Usually at home alone and in my underwear. (don't laugh)
20. George Bush: is he a power-crazy nutcase or some one who is finally doing something that has needed to be done for years? *sigh* Let's not go there.
21. Imagine your first child is a girl, what do you call her? Audrey Rose (yes, that is the name I chose for my first child)
22. Imagine your first child is a boy, what do you call him? Jonathan Russell (yes, that is the name of my buddy)
23. Would you ever consider living abroad? But, of course. At least a winter home or summer home or fall home or spring home somewhere exotic but America would always be my home home. :-)
Copyright Natalie Rose York
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 02:36 PM | Comments (0)
December 19, 2008
don't miss me
(Originally published by Nattie on April 12, 2004)
I might be offline for a few days. I've got the stomach flu.
This is the first time all day that I've been out of bed and have not been hugging the toilet. I don't think this reprieve is going to last long.
Copyright Natalie Rose York
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 08:27 AM | Comments (0)
December 18, 2008
The day after Easter...
(Originally published by Nattie on April 12, 2004)
and I think plastic Easter grass should be outlawed and abolished. I didn't even buy my children Easter baskets. Why didn't I buy them baskets, you ask?
- They are spoiled rotten! They got baskets from their Grandma Mary, their Nana, their cousin Joy and went to two family easter egg hunts!!!
- As if Number One wasn't enough, I'm tired of the commercialism. Just like Christmas I have to battle what the world says about the holiday with the true reason we celebrate.
I'm hoping that, as I did as a child, my children will discover that Santa is only Mom and Dad wrapping presents after they are in bed. That the Easter Bunny is really Daddy coloring eggs in the middle of the night and then hiding them where no one can find them. ;-) And that the Tooth Fairy is just Mommy tucking a quarter under the pillow while tucking the tooth in her memory drawer (okay, I haven't had to do that yet, but I don't know if I could throw that little tooth away *sniff*). But at the end of the day there is one "fairy tale" or story from childhood that is constant and real—Jesus.
~ Off to vacuum up more pink and purple grass while trying to keep the kids out of their candy stash.
Update—
BTW, I posted this at 1pm. It is now 5:15pm. I have vacuumed twice and I'm still finding plastic grass. We won't talk about the fights over the candy. :-)
Copyright Natalie Rose York
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 08:18 AM | Comments (0)
December 17, 2008
Happy Birthday to my Soul Sis!
(Originally published by Nattie on December 17, 2003)
It is my Soul Sis, Leann's, birthday today. Wish her a happy birthday!!!
Copyright Natalie Rose York
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 08:24 AM | Comments (1)
December 16, 2008
I think a lightbulb just turned on
(Originally published by Nattie on April 8, 2004)
Since becoming a mother, I have had many ah-ha or lightbulb moments about my relationship with God. Being a parent really is the perfect place to learn about our Heavenly Father. There are so many moments when I get frustrated with my kids and then...ah-ha...poor God. If I'm frustrated with my two children over this issue, how much more frustrated must he feel because of all of His children.
But God isn't wired that way. I may get frustrated and get angry and act on that anger. God gets frustrated because He loves us and wants the best for us. He may get angry especially if we have been banging our heads on that same wall, but thankfully He is ever patient. He just doesn't want to see us hurt ourselves needlessly. Sound familiar? Instead He reachs out to show us how he feels. I had one of those moments yesterday.
I went to the bathroom and locked the door. Of course, Immediately I had two faces pressed to the crack under the door, "What doing, Mom?"
I sigh, "I'm going to the bathroom." I'm thinking...why do I need to explain why I'm in the bathroom? Why isn't it just enough for them to know that I am in here? Why do I have to explain each bodily function?
Or if I'm doing the dishes. "What doing, Mom?"
I sigh, "I'm doing the dishes, Sweetie." As if they can't see, in this instance, what I'm doing.
Then. .ah-ha!
I cry out, "What are you doing, God?"
He sighs, "My child. I am here. Isn't that enough for you."
Why isn't that enough for me?
Well, I do come by it naturally. Mankind as a whole hasn't been that patient. Think back to the Old Testament times when Israel wasn't satisfied with the high priests and the temple. They wanted a king. They had a king, but they wanted a king that they could see. *smacks head*
Do I really want to go down that road again? I don't think so.
So, forgive me, God. I will try to be satisfied with your presence. But if you feel so inclined, I'd love to know what you are doing. :-)
Copyright Natalie Rose York
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 08:21 AM | Comments (1)
December 15, 2008
Our Christmas Child
I don't suppose Nattie would approve of this photo—but it's the only one I took on her last birthday, two years ago today. She said she didn't know if she could eat anything, but she loved red velvet cake so that's what her Aunt Anne and I brought (along with pizza for Anna and Jonathan). She was very sick, so we didn't stay; if only we had known how sick and why...and how little time we had left.
The sadness we feel is for ourselves. She is so much better now, it is beyond our imagination.
Happy 35th birthday, Natalie Rose. Love you!—Daddy
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 06:38 AM | Comments (7)
December 13, 2008
His Mercies
(Originally published by Nattie on April 7, 2004)
his mercies never come to an end;
they are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness."
~ Lamentations 3:22-23 (NRSV)
I thank God that not only are his mercies new every morning, they are new every minute. Like that day I wanted to do-over. I had another morning like that today. Actually, I was guilting myself because sleep won out over getting up early today and yesterday. I'm a night owl so it hasn't been easy. I think the lack of sleep just caught up to me. I haven't been going to bed all that much earlier and was getting up early. So I felt guilty. That's not of God.
to the very end of the age.
~ Matthew 28:20b (NIV)
Not, I am only with you when you wake up early in the morning. I am with you always!
Then there is Psalm 139...
and you know me.
2 You know when I sit and when I rise;
you perceive my thoughts from afar.
3 You discern my going out and my lying down;
you are familiar with all my ways.
4 Before a word is on my tongue
you know it completely, O LORD.
5 You hem me in—behind and before;
you have laid your hand upon me.
6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,
too lofty for me to attain.
7 Where can I go from your Spirit?
Where can I flee from your presence?
8 If I go up to the heavens, you are there;
if I make my bed in the depths, [1] you are there.
9 If I rise on the wings of the dawn,
if I settle on the far side of the sea,
10 even there your hand will guide me,
your right hand will hold me fast.
11 If I say, "Surely the darkness will hide me
and the light become night around me,"
12 even the darkness will not be dark to you;
the night will shine like the day,
for darkness is as light to you.
13 For you created my inmost being;
you knit me together in my mother's womb.
14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well.
15 My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place.
When I was woven together in the depths of the earth,
16 your eyes saw my unformed body.
All the days ordained for me were written in your book
before one of them came to be.
17 How precious to me are your thoughts, O God!
How vast is the sum of them!
18 Were I to count them,
they would outnumber the grains of sand.
When I awake, I am still with you.
19 If only you would slay the wicked, O God!
Away from me, you bloodthirsty men!
20 They speak of you with evil intent;
your adversaries misuse your name.
21 Do I not hate those who hate you, O LORD,
and abhor those who rise up against you?
22 I have nothing but hatred for them;
I count them my enemies.
23 Search me, O God, and know my heart;
test me and know my anxious thoughts.
24 See if there is any offensive way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting.
Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I go from your presence? He is here when I fixed the kids' breakfast. He was here when I folded laundry. He was here when I brushed my teeth. *sigh* Thank God, for His mercies. He is here when I'm groaning about my sinus headache. He will be with me when I'm pushing the kids in the swing at the park. Thank you, Lord, for overcoming death and for saving me from a life devoid of hope and light.
Here is a quote from Dietrich Bonhoeffer that I read today and it really got me thinking...
We pay more attention to dying than to death. We're more concerned to get over the act of dying than to overcome death. Socrates mastered the art of dying; Christ overcame death as the last enemy. There is a real difference between the two things; the one is within the scope of human possibilities, the other means resurrection. It's not from ars moriendi, the art of dying, but from the resurrection of Christ, that a new and purifying wind can blow through our present world. Here is the answer to Archimedes' challenge: "Give me somewhere to stand, and I will move the earth." If only a few people really believed that and acted on it in their daily lives, a great deal would be changed. To live in the light of resurrection--that is what Easter means. ~
So today, I will strive to live in the light of Jesus' resurrection, not in the light of guilt and condemnation. He bore that all for me and for you.
Have a blessed day!
Copyright Natalie Rose York
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 08:29 AM | Comments (0)
December 12, 2008
I am blessed
(Originally published by Nattie on April 7, 2004)
It is silly how the little things do make a difference.
~ Firstly, we had a nice day playing in the back yard in the beautiful 70-degree spring sunshine.
~ Secondly, I was the first one to check out a new book at the library. I've been waiting for it. What book was it? Should I tell you? Okay, I will. It was Miss Julia Meets Her Match by Ann B. Ross.
~ Thirdly, a book I had on hold was in. They didn't even have to call me. It had just come in. Talk about timing. What book was that? Life Goes On by Phil Gulley.
~ Fourthly, I won a prize for the library's Winter Reading program. I totally forgot about it. It was a $50 gift certificate for Family Christian Store. Wahoo!
So I got four things off my wishlist—
- Making Your Home a Haven by Cyndy Salzmann
- Girl Meets God by Lauren F. Winner
- Mudhouse Sabbath by Lauren F. Winner
- "The Other Side of Something" by Sara Groves
~ All around a good day. I'm tickled pink. :-)
Copyright Natalie Rose York
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 08:07 AM | Comments (0)
December 11, 2008
just a short entry
(Originally published by Nattie on April 7, 2004)
~ I did not die during my pap, but I did think I was going to. ;-)
~ I got put on blood pressure medication. This is so wrong for so many reasons, but my bp keeps going up rather than down. It was 150/90.
~ Even though I've been exercising like it is going out of style, I gained 14 lbs.
~ I'm considering wiring my jaw shut or something drastic.
~ I miss my little princess. She spent the day and night with the "greats" (great grandparents). She doesn't want to come home, but her brother and I miss her. Jonathan was forlorn yesterday. The only thing that eased his pain was spending two hours at the park with two little boys from preschool, then spending three hours at home playing with the neighbor boy and watching "Brother Bear" while eating gummi bears. He was that bereft. LOL!
~ I watched "Somethings Gotta Give" today and it was hilarious. LMBO! I've gotta have it.
~ It is going to be 70 today so we are spending another afternoon digging in the dirt in our back porch as soon as the princess gets home.
~ Oh, the princess is home and Jonathan is sharing the candy from his school egg hunt.
~ Life is good even if my health is kind of sucky right now. :-)
Copyright Natalie Rose York
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 08:24 AM | Comments (0)
December 10, 2008
I want a do-over
(Originally published by Nattie on April 5, 2004)
I've only been up two hours and I'd already like to do the day over.
~ I got up at 5:30 for a quiet time. I discovered that I was in my bedroom alone and I must have shouted hallelujah because not more than five seconds later my son came in saying he missed me. *sigh*
~ My husband woke up crankier than all get out because his shoulder hurts. It's not my fault! I swear I didn't kick him, hit him or wish pestilence upon him so quit taking it out on me!
~ My son got mad because his sister got the bunny plate for breakfast. Oh, the tragedy. The horror!
~ My allergies are acting up and I'm getting a headache that I hope doesn't run into a migraine *knock on wood*.
~ I didn't sleep well last night. I kept having silly nightmares. Silly, but still terrifying as most nightmares are.
~ But the biggest reason why I'm grouchy... I have to have a PAP today. Ewww!
~ Think I can ask for a prescription for an attitude change while at the doctor's office?
Copyright Natalie Rose York
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 08:23 AM | Comments (0)
December 09, 2008
Assumptions
(Originally published by Nattie on March 24, 2004)
My friend, Stacey, was talking about assumptions awhile back and I got to thinking on them today.
When you look at me, what do you assume?
- Many people would assume that because my skin is white that I'm a racist.
- Some would assume that because I haven't finished my degree that I'm stoopid.
- Others would assume that because I'm against gay marriage that I hate gays and would stand on a corner with a sign that says "Fags are doomed." (THAT is sooo wrong, btw - but that is another blog for another day).
- Many would assume that because I'm a Christian that I'm...what did I that article say?...Oh, yeah. I'm uneducated and simple-minded.
- Some would assume that because I'm a stay-at-home-mom that I'm nothing more than a glorified maid (they wouldn't be far off *wink*).
- Others would assume that because I go to a Nazarene church that I'm against dancing and drinking.
- Many would assume that because I live in a small town that I am not aware of world affairs.
- Some would assume that because I'm overweight that I don't exercise.
- Others would assume that because I'm blonde, you have to spoon-feed me information and I'm unable to decipher Shakespeare.
- Many would assume that because I have chronic depression that I don't believe in God or believe in hope.
- Some people assume that because a person wears glasses that they are smarter than the average person.
- Others assume that because a woman wears a skirt she wants to be whistled at and ogled by men.
See what I mean? You can't assume much accurately other than surface things when you first look someone in the face. Please do everyone a favor and look deeper. Get to know a person before you lump them in with the masses. But the same goes for me. I shouldn't assume that someone with a nose ring is a hooligan. I shouldn't assume that a young mom's parenting advice isn't any better than an older mother's. I shouldn't assume that all people who say they are Christians are nice, either.
Just some food for thought today.
Off to work on the challenge.
Copyright Natalie Rose York
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 08:24 AM | Comments (0)
December 08, 2008
Re-Reading
(Originally published by Nattie on April 3, 2004)
If a book is really good, it deserves to be read again, and if it's great, it should be read at least three times.—Anatole Broyard
I decided to start rereading some of my old favorites. Some to see if I still like them. Some because I know they stand the test of time and still bring me joy.
So on my re-read list right now...
Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery
The Secret of the Old Clock by Carolyn Keene
The Hidden Staircase by Carolyn Keene
Bunnicula by James Howe
I'll let you know how it goes.
Copyright Natalie Rose York
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 08:24 AM | Comments (0)
December 06, 2008
another day, another migraine
(Originally published by Nattie on April 1, 2004)
This migraine blindsided me last night. All of a sudden I got hit with it right after coming home from the library with the kids. I've still got it. My mother in law is coming over to distract the kids so I can get some peace and quiet in a dark room. Pray that this goes away soon. I was looking forward to some girl time tomorrow. My aunt and I were going to eat lunch at the local coffee shop and bookstore.
I'm going to the Dr next week to see if we can figure out why I keep getting these migraines again all of a sudden.
TTFN,
Me
Copyright Natalie Rose York
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 08:33 AM | Comments (1)
December 05, 2008
I declare today...
(Originally published by Nattie on April 1, 2004)
Dana has to have a repeat mammogram today. Let's cover her in our prayers. I'm also wearing a pink T-shirt and my "Race for The Cure" do-rag to support her. My daughter is wearing pink too. I think everyday should be Think Pink day because I don't know what I'd do with my Dana-bana. :-)
Copyright Natalie Rose York
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 08:24 AM | Comments (2)
December 04, 2008
Too funny
(Originally published by Nattie on March 31, 2004)
My daughter has added hand motions to her "song." She likes to stand in front of the mirror and do them. And now she has her brother singing it too. She made up a verse just for him to sing...
I! Love! My! Sister!
And he does sing it. That is the funny thing. LOL! I wish I had a video camera for times like this. :-)
Copyright Natalie Rose York
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 08:02 AM | Comments (0)
December 03, 2008
And another thing...
(Originally published by Nattie on March 31, 2004)
maybe I'm just a nut, but I'm noticing a trend here. I tend to become a slave to things rather than mastering them. Right now I'm a slave to food. But if I stop eating I become a slave to anorexia. Or I'm a slave to the tv. Or a slave to the computer. Why can't I do things in moderation and master the control of them? Why can't I just be a slave to God? I know that is what He wants of me.
The book I'm reading—Discipline—The Glad Surrender —really has me thinking. The book is almost 20 years old, but it is still very relevant to our Christian walk today. Hmmm...
Just thinking out loud here...off to do some reading.
If you get a chance, say a prayer. I'm taking the kids (five and three) to see "Lion King 1-1/2" with the kids' group from church tonight. The last time we tried to see a movie ("Jonah") hubby was with us and he won't be tonight.
Last time he had to take darling daughter to the car because she wanted to go up and down the theater aisles. Granted she is older now and this is an old small town theater so they have a mother s' room if worse comes to worst. But my five-year-old really wanted to go. Some of his friends from church and preschool will be there.
So I'm crossing my fingers and toes, saying a prayer, knocking on wood—whatever it takes to hope they will both be well behaved. Because when they aren't I tend to lose my cool. God love 'em.
Copyright Natalie Rose York
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 08:24 AM | Comments (0)
December 02, 2008
*sigh*
(Originally published by Nattie on March 30, 2004)
Why does God keep requiring more of me? :-)
He has been very quietly and patiently reminding me that I need to spend less time on extraneous stuff—like net surfing and tv surfing (Please God, don't ask me to give up reading. I think I'd die).
I've cut quite a bit of time down on the internet already, but I got bored one day and resubbed to some blogs I used to read (there was nothing wrong with them, but I just hadn't had time to read them in a while) and subbed to some yahoo groups. Well, *sigh* I unsubbed again. I'm down to my bare bones list of blogs and groups.
I am also going to try to not keep the tv on after my show is over. So often I watch the show I want to watch and continue to channel surf even when there is nothing on tv. This habit has of course gotten worse since hubby decided we had to have cable again. So how am I going to accomplish these goals?
- I've unsubbed from all of those groups and blogs so now I'm going to start keeping a log of time spent on the internet. Then see if I can come up with a reasonable amount of time and a certain time of day to be online. The rest of the time I'll *gasp* turn the computer off. *sob* (Okay, maybe I'm being a tad melodramatic)
- I will stick to my Sunday computer fast. I don't get online most Sundays, but sometimes I do. I notice when I go without one day. It is easier to spend less time online the next day.
- I will choose the TV shows I want to watch and only turn the TV on for those shows. Then I will turn it off when theyare over.
- I will continue to ride my stationary bike while watching my shows, too. That has to payoff sometime. :-)
- I will work with the kids to pick out their favorite shows so they don't spend the day in front of the tv.
- I'll get outside more with the kids. I really enjoy sitting in my lawnchair with a book, getting some sun while the kids play in the dirt. And guess what? We don't miss the tv at all when we are communing with nature.
"See you later, galigator," as my sweet babydoll would say, "after while cwockodile."
Copyright Natalie Rose York
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 08:24 AM | Comments (0)
December 01, 2008
Can't stand it anymore
(Originally published by Nattie on March 30, 2004)
For a while now I've been seeing ads on the Fox network while watching "American Idol" for a new reality show called—"The Swan." They are taking 12 women and giving them nose jobs, tummy tucks, etc. Basically totally making them over.
I have to say that this show is just wrong. They have no right to call these women ugly ducklings. I'll admit that there are days that I look in the mirror and don't like what I see, but I know that isn't what God sees.
All women are beautiful in God's eyes. This search for perfect beauty has gone too far. I'll even admit to wanting a tummy tuck, but if nothing else in the last three years I've learned something. No matter what the scale says, no matter what the mirror says...I am beautiful in God's eyes. Nothing can change that.
There are days when I doubt that I am beautiful in my husband's eyes, but my children think I'm pretty. :-)
I have two new books on Mt. TBR (Mountain To Be Read)—
~ Beauty by the Book—Seeing Yourself as God Sees You by Nancy Stafford
~ The Ultimate Makeover—Becoming Spiritually Beautiful In Christ by Sharon Jaynes
I'm excited to read what these authors have to say on the matter. Sometimes it is hard to remember you are beautiful when you look in the mirror and see a zit on your chin, bags under your eyes and teeth that could stand some braces.:-)
Oooh, forgot to say...Thank you, Stacey! She sent The Ultimate Makeover and Seven Life Principles For Every Woman—Refreshing Ways to Prioritize Your Life by Sharon Jaynes and Lysa Terkeurst
Oh, for a book and a cozy nook (with no mirrors)
So, in closing, I will not be watching "The Swan." I won't watch a show that says women have to have plastic surgery to be considered beautiful. They were already beautiful.
Addendum—I added another book to my wishlist—Do You Think I'm Beautiful by Angela Thomas
Here is a review—from Publishers Weekly:
A title like this leads a reader to think that this will be a book about body image. However, it's more about understanding beauty and acceptance in the context of God's unconditional love, a poignant message that many women will appreciate. "A good man can be wonderful," writes Thomas, a motivational speaker and mother of four. "But he can never be enough, and he can never make you whole. You and I were made for even more. We were made for God." Although some readers may balk at the gender essentialism that drives this book (women are "wired" for relationships and beauty, etc.), Thomas spins compelling anecdotes from her own experiences and the lives of others. She builds a persuasive case for God as a pursuing lover who delights in each one of his daughters, even when they feel unlovable. She speaks honestly and with cutting humor about how Christian women appear to be all smiles, but "are dying on the inside." She also does an especially fine job of drawing on the prodigal son parable from the New Testament to demonstrate that although women sometimes feel like the prodigal and sometimes like the unappreciated elder son, God is waiting to receive them with open arms.
Doesn't that sound like a great book to add to my library? I am really feeling led to talk to teens and young women about self-esteem and true beauty. Hmmm. We'll see where God leads.
Copyright Natalie Rose York
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 08:24 AM | Comments (0)