December 25, 2009
Merry Christmas!
...to all of you from Natalie's family. Thank you for all you have done to welcome us into your hearts. Just as you did for our Nattie.
May all your kindness be returned a hundredfold. God bless!
'til we meet again...{{{{{Y'all!}}}}}
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 12:00 AM | Comments (1)
December 15, 2009
Happy 36th birthday, Natalie
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 08:24 AM | Comments (1)
December 02, 2009
A change in plans
For some reason that was never clear to me, Natalie did not go home on Tuesday. Then I got a call from her mom at 1:42 on Wednesday afternoon. I was still convinced that Nattie would be cured or healed, or at least be with us long enough to get hospice care at home, but Mary's words at least partially penetrated my fog; her organs are shutting down. I needed to get to Indianapolis.
I called a couple clients with jobs hanging over my head and begged for a little more time—how much I did not know. Ran a piece of Express Mail to the Post Office, then checked to see if my sister could take me to Indianapolis. At 2:55 I called Mary to tell her Roger, Anne and I were on our way.
Still I believed that this episode, as with the one on Sunday night, would pass. Soon Natalie would be sitting up in her own bed, eating Jello and reading books that had been delivered by the library.
I stopped in her room. She said, "Hi." But Wes was there, too. Why? As far as I knew, he hadn't visited before. Mary told me that he wanted to talk to Natalie in private, so I went down to the visitors' lounge to make a pot of coffee. I barely recognized Wes' mother; she was crying and saying, "I'm so sorry, Geoff." I still hadn't grasped what was happening.
Jonathan and Anna had been in the lounge, drawing pictures and writing messages to their mom. Wes brought them in; Jonathan handed his card to Natalie then turned and looked out the seventh floor window. Anna wouldn't look at all.
Karla stopped back to say they were going to take the kids to get something to eat. "Don't worry, Natalie," she said. "We'll take good care of your kids." I still refused to comprehend.
A nurse appeared. "My kids are gone, now," Natalie told her, and the nurse administered another dose of pain killer and tranquilizer. Before she fell asleep I said, "I've told everybody else, but I don't know if I ever told you how proud i am of you."
She whispered, "Thank you."
"I love you."
"Love you, too."
By the time my friend Boyd called at 7:06, reality had begun to sink in. (Ironically, he would fall ill scarcely six months later and pass away in February of the next year.) Natalie was clinging to life only as long as her heart held out; virtually everything else had given up on her. All the tubes and wires had been disconnected and the monitors removed. Only the oxygen feed remained.
As the night wore on, her pastor arrived. Then other family members and friends. I got up, from time to time, to walk the halls or visit briefly, but mostly sat at Natalie's bedside and held her hand. At some point that I failed to record and can no longer recall, it seemed that her sleep had become a coma. Her breath became more labored. She no longer made any other sounds or changed her position in the bed.
At 6:41 a.m. just as daylight was coming to the rest of Indianapolis, she drew her last breath.
The hospital chaplain came and offered a comforting prayer. We stood around and spoke quietly. Eventually we gathered her belongings and left her body in the room. It had failed her. She had gone and left it behind. Those of us who remained on Earth will miss her until we meet again.
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 06:29 PM | Comments (1)
November 30, 2009
What would you expect?
Natalie was moved to ICU on Sunday night, June 3, 2007, after an emergency episode with her blood pressure. On Monday morning I met her oncologist, and first impressions were not good. Until that moment, I had not heard the word "hospice" used in regard to her prognosis.
"She doesn't want to be here. She wants to go home," he said. What I heard was, "Get her out of here; she's wasting my time."
From his detached position, he could see that the end was near and providing for her comfort was not the hospital's job. They had plenty of patients who might yet respond to their ministrations. I, on the other hand, refused to see the hopelessness of the situation that stared me in the face.
Despite some other words that I had heard—"inoperable," "terminal," "chemo as a means to prolong her life..." The end, if it came, was still far away. Hundreds of people were praying, literally, all around the world. She could not die if I refused to let her go.
Within minutes she was returned to the oncology floor, and her mom was making plans for their return to Alexandria on Tuesday.
The news did appear to bring some strength. Once she was settled in her new room, Natalie dictated another entry for me to post here the next day. And when I left that evening she was sitting up in bed, eating jello and informing all within the sound of her voice that as soon as she got home she was going to call the library because the bookmobile would deliver!
Suddenly the world looked much brighter to me, too.
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 08:04 PM | Comments (0)
November 12, 2009
Hindsight may be 20/20...
On the date that yesterday's post was originally written—May 16, 2007—I was still trying to deal with the month-old news that a former co-worker and protegé had died a year earlier of lymphoma and multiple sclerosis. I well remembered the day he presented himself at my office door, fresh from college, overflowing with raw talent and enthusiasm.
I thoroughly enjoyed the next couple years, watching him grow in the job as I fed him what little I had learned about the business, but I could not stand in the way of progress. Before long he had moved on to bigger and better positions. Still, I enjoyed the delusion that I had made some significant contribution to the launch of his career.
I could go on about how I came to hire him, and the heights he subsequently reached, but this isn't about him. Nor me. Nor the 1980s. It's about an irony that strikes me whenever I remember the days of Natalie's blogging. Since learning on April 17, 2007, of Steve's passing I had wondered why and how a 44-year-old with a wife, two sons and hundreds of friends around the world, could be so unfairly stricken. But "now" it is Thursday, May 17, 2007...
If hindsight is 20/20, foresight must be total darkness.
Perhaps it is better that way.
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 01:47 PM | Comments (2)
November 11, 2009
tired of being poked and prodded
(Originally published by Nattie on May 16, 2007)
I've had blood work done. I've had a gall bladder ultrasound. I've had an Upper GI done. Now I have an endoscopy scheduled tomorrow at some horridly early hour. They must fix this soon because I am at my limit.
Copyright Natalie Rose York
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 09:49 AM | Comments (0)
November 05, 2009
Life goes on
Yes, I have missed a few days. No, I didn't go anywhere. I have been staring at the dwindling list of archived entries that remain. And wondering what I can do to halt the march toward its inevitable conclusion.
As of May 4, 2007—the date of Nattie's previous post—a mere two weeks remained before we all got the terrifying diagnosis. And no one guessed that we had but three weeks after that to share her earthly presence.
The detailed reminders of those days remain to be published. And the events they describe painfully remembered.
It is often said, "if only we had known." But if we had, what could we have done? What could we have done differently? What words were left unsaid?
And why can't we just make it stop?
It is too much to comprehend. Too much to consider. And life goes on.
Thank you for caring.
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 11:20 AM | Comments (6)
November 03, 2009
Wordless Wednesday
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 09:44 AM | Comments (1)
September 10, 2009
Stop the whirlwind! I want to get off!
You may have noticed the rapid passage of these archives. It was only about a month ago that we posted Natalie's June 6-8, 2006, entries. Only God knew at that time that we had but one fleeting year to enjoy her earthly companionship. And because the scarcity of money became more and more of a problem for her, she and her blog were offline for longer and longer periods in those closing months, making the end come even more quickly.
As we are now able to gaze into the past we can see the first few months of 2007 roaring toward us as a giant snowball, an avalanche, faster and faster, ever larger and more ominous. Destructive as a volcanic mountaintop that flattens everything it meets. And as all of this is happening, we lie in the sun at the bottom of the hill, blissful in our ignorance.
I can do nothing to stop it. In a few days we will have re-posted all of the "Nattie Rose Writes" archives that we have been able to salvage. But I can slow it briefly when little things such as this enter my life.
This article came in an email newsletter yesterday. And every time I stumbled over it throughout the day I wanted to share it with Natalie. I know she would have loved it. It isn't at all inspirational, but it still made me feel as though we were able to connect again, if only for a moment. I hope you enjoy it, too.
Love you, little girl! And miss you even more!—Daddy
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 12:04 AM | Comments (1)
June 08, 2009
Things you might want to know
It was purely by coincidence that Natalie's "Happy Birthday to Me" entry came around the day before our local ACS Relay for Life. And that just one day prior to the second anniversary of her passing. Some might call it ironic. I guess i would as well. But I post them as they come around, and that's the way it rolled.
Regarding the June 5 "Happy Birthday" post and the June 7 anniversary, please read Heather's beautiful letter on her site.
If anyone else has written "a letter to Nattie" this year, please send me a link to your blog or a copy that I may post here.
Meanwhile, this year's Relay was the polar opposite of last year's.
None of the out-of-towners could make it, and it didn't rain. Scattered clouds and a light breeze kept the 80-degree temperatures and 50-percent humidity from becoming oppressive. Between laps of the track I sat comfortably in the shade while Anne knitted socks for soldiers. Several larger groups conducted raffles, bake sales, and other fund-raising events, but as most of our members live at least 100 miles away, I was satisfied with our effort.
Hundreds of participants continuously circled the track, and the crowd built as the day went on. And when the sun went down I was actually able to get some photos of the luminaria. It was one of the few times I had wished for one of my old 35mm Nikon film cameras, lately. Perhaps if I knew my digital "point-n-shoot" a little better I might have gotten better low-to-no-light pictures...but maybe you get the idea.
Thanks to all of you who contributed to the American Cancer Society this year in support of our team "Remembering Natalie Rose York." Due in large part to the Alexandria Nazarene MOMS, we collected $592.89. Thank you for remembering Nattie so generously.
((((((Y'all!))))))
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 08:24 AM | Comments (2)
June 03, 2009
Rose Reading Garden update
Thank you for your response to our report on Sunday's dedication. Some of you inquired about donating books or money, so I asked Jen to write up the particulars. Here is her information.
...We would love donations of books. Everything donated, either the books we receive or the books we buy from the money we receive, will be marked with a sticker saying, "dontated in memory and honor of Natalie Rose York."Donations can be sent to or dropped off at:
Church of the Nazarene
1401 S. Harrison Street
Alexandria, IN 46001Please make a note on the donations that these go to the Rose Reading Garden or c/o Missy Beeman.
If you are doing a check donation, please put in the memo: donation to Rose Reading Garden.
And, if that seems like too much effort, the children's pastor has registered several books that you can purchase for the librry in one quick visit, right here on the Internet. See Missy Beeman's registry at 
Thank you for helping to grow the Rose Reading Garden in memory of Nattie Rose.
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 11:09 AM | Comments (0)
June 01, 2009
the Rose Reading Garden is now open
The Sunday morning library dedication far exceeded my expectations. Thanks to Jen, Missy and Pastor Mark. It was an emotional service...at least for me.
I was proud of my daughter for fatherly reasons. I never knew her the way other people did. Hearing her friends tell how she affected them as a woman, mother and fellow church member, will never cease to amaze me.
This area was virtually destroyed by water damage a few months ago. Volunteer members did an excellent job repairing and remodeling everything.
The rosebush the church gave to Jonathan, Anna and Wes in memory of Natalie Rose is kinda hard to see there on the table.
I had Jonathan and Anna stand here for a photo. Then after they had moved on I noticed the picture of their mom -- reading, naturally -- and Jen's framed presentation above their heads. Here are those words that she wrote, and read in the dedication service.
Natalie Loved To Read. You often found her with a book in her hands, sitting with the kids at the library or blogging about the many books she was reading or re-reading.Natalie Loved Kids, especially her own. She was involved in our Children’s Department; on the Building Blocks committee, working in the nursery, teaching VBS and Caravan.
Natalie Loved Her Friends; remembering birthdays and anniversaries. She could be found encouraging friends during trying times, crying with them during times of pain and rejoicing with them during joyful times.
But Most of All, Natalie Loved Her Lord. She trusted HIS Will, HIS Strength, HIS Love in all she did. She didn’t have a lot in this world, but she had a lot with her LORD. She knew no matter the need, HE would provide and HE did.
Today, we dedicate a library in our Children’s Department in Natalie Rose York’s honor. We have beginning readers, chapter books, children’s bibles, a computer station with fun and educational games, movies and music.
We thank Natalie’s Mom and Stepfather for giving us our starting capital for the library and also to everyone who has donated a book, money, movie, cd, or anything to make the library continue to grow and thrive.
Today, May 31st 2009, we officially open the Rose Reading Garden in honor and love of Natalie Rose York.
Jen, I want you, and everyone else who participated or donated, to know that we appreciate your efforts very much. Either the library alone, or the most generous gift to Relay for Life in Natalie's memory, would have been a wonderful honor, but both... Our gratitude exceeds my vocabulary.
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 08:24 AM | Comments (11)
May 02, 2009
Relay for Life
As previously stated, this year’s Relay for Life will be on Saturday, June 6. I renewed the team "Remembering Natalie Rose York," but I seem to be unable to adequately handle more than one thing at a time and have let arrangements slide. Consequently, we now have barely one month remaining and I have done virtually nothing about it in the past two. So we're back to the old familiar mode of stamping out fires.
Pattie made these luminaries for her hometown Relay for Life. Thanks for sharing, Pattie.
First fire: I need T-shirt sizes ASAP. In March I promised to send a "Relay for Life" shirt to anyone who donated a minimum of $20 to the American Cancer Society at our team site. Then I lost track of time. Now I need to turn in shirt sizes and I haven't even asked for your money yet. So here it is.
Please go to the "Team Nattie" site and donate as you are able.
Nobody is keeping score. I don't know if anyone other than I can see the amount of individual gifts. If for some reason you cannot make your donation now, but intend to before the event, please email your size to geoffc AT gearanon DOT com and I will go ahead and add it to the list. If you are completely undecided, shirts are always available at the event, but I can't guarantee your size selection.
Second Fire: I also promised to mail a luminary to anyone requesting one with a $10 donation. The idea is that you will decorate it in any way you wish, and return it to me before June 5.
Then I will put sand and a candle in it for the Luminaria Ceremony at the end of the Relay. And, if I don't lose track of where it is, I will email you a photo of your luminaria illuminated and in place after dark at the event site.
So, let's say, I need those requests as soon as possible, too. I was able to pick up only a dozen luminaria sacks at the meeting this week, so let me know ASAP if I need to call in and ask for more.
In both cases, I need your snail mailing addresses. You may be asked for this information when you visit the site, but I can't find it, so please email it to geoffc AT gearanon DOT com, too.
Finally, this is almost irrelevant at this point, but maybe I should mention it. Next year, the word from on high is that the minimum donation for anyone requesting a T-shirt will be $50. For what it's worth.
Also, don't forget the dedication of the library being constructed in Nattie's honor at her Alexandria Nazarene Church on May 31.
Is that enough information for now? If you have any questions, either put them in the Comments to this entry or email them to the address above. Just change "AT" and "DOT" to the appropriate symbols. I'm sure you figured that out already, but didn't want anyone to have a problem and think I had no idea what I was talking about. I mean, I don't, but I try not to make i that obvious!
I'll be talking to you again, soon! (((((Y'all)))))
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 02:52 PM | Comments (2)
April 13, 2009
Current News
This is largely irrelevant as almost all of you live elsewhere, but another team in our local "Relay For Life" has announced a fund-raiser for the American Cancer Society. Here are the details:
2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Marion Lanes
705 W. 37th St.
Marion, Indiana
2 Hours of Bowling and Shoes $5.00 (per person)
Striking Out Cancer: Priceless!
Hosted by Liz (Coopie) Williams, Family and Friends
Of course, this has nothing to do with raising money in Natalie's memory, but anyone in the area next Saturday afternoon who feels like bowling for a couple hours is invited to join in.
And if this gives you any idas about ways we could beat last year's total, let me know. Thanks!
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 08:24 AM | Comments (0)
April 01, 2009
My apologies...
I haven't been able to keep up with Natalie's blog this week. I'm trying. Honest, I am! Back to "normal" next week...maybe!
Thank you for your patience!
(((((Y'all!)))))
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 11:16 AM | Comments (1)
March 27, 2009
Just in case...
entries seem spotty next week, my schedule will be very different from the usual. I should have Internet access most of the time, and I will try to post and approve comments daily, but I will be in a different place with different demands on my time.
When I get "back to normal," I'll try to start updating everyone on the plans for our team "Remembering Natalie Rose York" and the 2009 Relay for Life this coming June 6. And your suggestions are always welcome.
Meanwhile, (((((Y'all)))))—ND
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 10:52 PM | Comments (0)
March 19, 2009
Library update from Jen
Hi all,
We have a date for our library dedication for Natalie Rose. It will be on Sunday, May 31st beginning at 10:30am.
Our children at our church have starting taking over the worship part of the service on every 5th Sunday and it just so happens that May 31st is a 5th Sunday. So our worship portion will be conducted by the children's department and we will then do a dedication presentation of the library. After the service is completed, we will be having cookies in the library.
I am not going to tell what the name is going to be as it will be announced officially library dedication day.
If anyone wants to donate books (children's books) we will be putting a sticker in them reading "Donated by.... in honor of Natalie Rose," or if anyone wants to donate monetarily for books and anything else needed for the library, we would gladly accept that in honor of Natalie Rose as well and all the money collected will be spent in the library.
If you would like to make a donation, please make checks out to Alexandria Church of the Nazarene and place on it "Natalie Rose Library." Books and donations can be sent to Alexandria Church of the Nazarene at 1401 S. Harrison St., Alexandria, IN 46001 (please mark it "to Missy Beeman for Natalie Rose Library"). Thanks so much. Any questions, or more details, please contact me at jslewis2001 (AT) att.net.
God bless,
Jen
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 08:04 AM | Comments (1)
March 11, 2009
Pardon the interruption.
I’m breaking in today to catch up on preparation for a couple events which will be happening in early June.
In case you didn’t catch Jen's comment, I'll repeat it here:
Thanks for posting the call for a great picture of Nattie. I have saved this photo on my computer and sent it in to get processed. It didn't turn out too bad. If anyone has found a good picture of Nattie or was able to break into her photo files, please send me some.A library update: We have the bookshelves up and are starting to fill them with books currently. They look a bit bare, but we will get there. We have a computer for all to use, some lounge chairs and a couple of smaller half-round tables in there. We are still working on pegs for hanging jackets and stuff like that. We have someone painting roses in the room (as she is Nattie Rose). We are planning the dedication to be done during children's week which is the first week of June.
Thanks again for all your help. I will keep you posted on the progress.—Jen Lewis
Thanks for the update, Jen. Please let us know the day and date of the dedication as soon as you get it.
I do know that this year’s Relay for Life will be on Saturday, June 6. Nattie’s Aunt Anne and I attended the "kickoff" meeting last week, and I have renewed the team "Remembering Natalie Rose York" for another year. I haven’t yet decided exactly how I want to personalize the team page, but you can reach it at http://main.acsevents.org/goto/TeamNattie
As I did last year, I will send an event T-shirt to anyone who donates at least $20.00 to the American Cancer Society in support of Natalie’s team page. This year I've also decided to do something else.
If you donate $10.00 and request a luminaria, I will mail you one of the special ACS luminaria sacks that you can decorate in any way you wish. Then send it back to me and I will put sand and a candle in it for the Luminaria Ceremony at the Relay. Then, if I don't lose track of where it is, I will email you a photo of your luminaria illuminated and in place after dark at the event site.
Thanks to Pattie for sharing these photos of the luminaries she made for her hometown Relay for Life.
There will be deadlines for both of the above. I'm thinking we'll need your donations by the end of April to get the luminaria to you and back. And I'll need sizes for the shirts and such by mid-May, if not sooner. So don't take too long to think about it. I'll try to have a little clearer plan in the next couple weeks. If possible.
Attention, Amy Henry: Plesae contact me if you and your friends at Nattie's church still want to participate in fundraising for her Relay for Life team this year.
Meanwhile, Angie, BlondeBlogger, Cathie Jo, Cynthia, Dana, Heather, Jen, Maria, StephanieG and all the rest of you who visit, read and comment, it's been almost two years since I took over this job, and nothing makes it any easier than does the knowledge that you share in the knowledge and appreciation for the memory of our Natalie Rose. Thank you!—Nattie's Daddy
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 11:07 AM | Comments (3)
February 04, 2009
Validation
As the days turn into weeks, months and now more than a year, one thing hasn't changed. I will always miss Natalie very much, think of questions that I wish I could ask, and see things that remind me of her.
Natalie's friends have told me how much they appreciated her supportive attitude and philosophical outlook on life. How much they were helped by her blog posts, emails, phone calls and cards. I thought of these things when my lifelong friend sent me this video. I hope you like it!
Now back to regularly scheduled programming.—ND
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 09:08 AM | Comments (2)
January 30, 2009
Photo call
First, thanks to Heather, Jen, Nattie's Mom (Happy Birthday!), Skipper, Cynthia, Maria, Cathie Jo, StephanieG, Aunt Anne, Dana, Becky, Lizas' Eyeview, Pattie, Heather R, Mary Lynn, BlondeBlogger, Joy, Wendy, Cheryl, Jane, Dawn and everyone else who has vsited and commented recently.
Some of you may have missed this comment that was added to a recent entry.
Hi Natties dad,I go to church where Natalie went to and also started the MOMS group there. I work in the children's department and on the children's ministry team and we have been discussing the library we are going to do in Natties honor. We would like to call it the Natalie Rose Garden Library or something along those lines and once completed we would like to do a dedication of the library in her honor. We would like to have a picture of Natalie to frame and put in the library. Might you be able to get us a picture of Natalie that you would like to see put up in memory of her in her library? We would really appreciate any help.
Thanks so much. Just so you know, she is not forgotten and she is thought of often. I miss her and what strength she showed and stood for. I only hope I am living a life like hers, faithful and pure of heart.—jen lewis
Jen, that is a great idea. Unfortunately, most of what I have are low-resolution jpgs such as the one above—which may not be the best, but certainly is appropriate. I don’t know if I have anything that would print larger than a postage stamp. If anyone else has a negative or a high-res scan that could be printed to 8x10 or larger, please let me know.
Thanks!
ND
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 02:05 PM | Comments (5)
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 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)
July 31, 2008
Happy Birthday...
Jonathan Russell!
...10 years old today.
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 09:47 AM | Comments (2)
July 18, 2008
Happy Birthday
Annabelle Rose!
...eight years old today.
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 08:52 AM | Comments (2)
July 09, 2008
A letter of thanks
For a brief change of pace, here are excerpts from a letter I recieved today from the chairwomen of the local American Cancer Society "Relay for Life" in which our team "Remembering Natalie Rose York" participated. Because so many of you supported our effort in Nattie's memory, I thought I would share it with you.
Dear Everyone:Many thanks to you for...the Relay for Life of Grant County 2008. Your 2008 Team Total went over $100,000...
We raised much money in a county that has so many issues, we should be proud of all of the work that has made this successful since January. What a tremendous achievement it was. Even with the rain, tents going down or blowing away, we had an amazing day filled with great ceremonies including the Survivors/ Lap, Ms Relay Contest and the moving Luminaria Ceremony. It was such an inspirational event where over 1200 people came to show their support in eradicating cancer.
You have made such a difference in the lives of those who are battling cancer! We appreciate your commitment to the American Cancer Society so very much.
We value this relationship tremendously and value the loyal support of your team in the Relay for Life's continued fight to cure cancer. We look forward to seeing your enthusiastic team again on the track!
...We want to make each year bigger and better and can’t do it without your help.
Warm Regards, and remember
THERE IS NO FINISH LINE UNTIL WE FIND A CURE!
The 2009 "Relay" is tentatively scheduled for June 6. Amy has already reported that several friends from Natalie's church want to join in. I will let you know more after the "kickoff" meeting in March of next year.
Thank you all so much.
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 10:06 AM | Comments (1)
June 15, 2008
One year ago today...
...we took Natalie's ashes to the cometary. But I am growing weary of recounting those sad milestones. If you want to read about that, it's here.
Still, I can't avoid noticing one more moment of personal melodrama; we buried my only child on this date last year...and today is "Father's Day." Nothin' I can do about that. I know we all have days of grief...and life goes on.
Although we will never forget Natalie, we slowly become accustomed to her absence. We have resumed the posting of entries from her own writings and observations. We see reminders of her life morning, noon and night--here, there and everywhere--but reality dawns. Our earthly meetings are over.
I am sure others would rather not hear me say, "Natalie loved that book," or, "The last time I was here was with Natalie..." But I still enjoy reading your assurances that she was a positive influence on your lives. That makes me proud. It makes me feel good. It brings tears to my eyes.
Onward and Upward!
(((((y'all)))))
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 11:27 AM | Comments (5)
June 08, 2008
Remembering...
One year ago today we were making Natalie's funeral arrangements. Today, her church held a memorial program for the seven members who passed on last year. Nat was, of course, the youngest of these and, alphabetically, the last one "eulogized."
The words were, as in her Life Celebration of last year, mostly her own, and you have read them here in recent days. It was a lovely moment that reinforced what we already know. Nobody knew all there was to know about Natalie because she was a unique inspiration to each individual with whom she came in contact.
The following verse is from a service her mom attended in California several months ago, but I saved it for this occasion. It just seems to fit.
We will always love you, Natalie.
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 09:08 PM | Comments (0)
June 07, 2008
Has anybody seen my ark?
The 2008 Grant County "Relay for Life" did not fare well, weather-wise. After everyone else left, "Team Nattie"--and a few volunteers--made a couple of quick laps of the track before it seriously started raining. Pictured in no particular order are Amy, Paige, Anna, Nattie's Mom, stepdad John, Aunt Marty, cousins Joy and Steve, Uncle Bill, and other friends whose names I have already forgotten...sorry! Jonathan was present, but had run ahead of the marching band.
First Saturday in June, 2009...we can't get rained out two years in a row, can we?
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 08:15 PM | Comments (2)
We all miss you, Natalie Rose
Thank you, Becky
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 06:41 AM | Comments (0)
May 31, 2008
from Pattie
Pattie participated in her local Relay for Life last night. She sent this photo of the luminaria she made. The other side says, "In Loving Memory of Natalie Rose York, December 15, 1973-June 7, 2007."
Thank you very much, Pattie!
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 03:26 PM | Comments (1)
May 30, 2008
"Team Nattie" updated again"
I attended my first "team captains' meeting" last night. It was also the last one of the year. If you ordered a shirt, it is in the mail, and should be to you by Wednesday or Thursday. I hope you can wear it on June 7, wherever you are.
Earlier on Thursday--thanks to the generosity of Brian, Cynthia, Amy, Cathy, Pattie, Anne, Lesley, Jennifer, Sara, Erik, Maria, Jack and Rich--I doubled the team goal for the second time. We are currently at $665.00, and with the help of some other co-workers, friends and family members, I hope to see that rise a little more before the event
It's never too late to register or to donate...but many T-shirt sizes are sold out, and I won't be making another mailing until after the event.
Remembering Natalie Rose York -- for the Grant County (Indiana) Relay for Life in Marion on June 7, 2008. Anyone who wishes to participate, either locally or at a distance may register at the team website.
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 04:22 PM | Comments (2)
May 25, 2008
The race is on
Although the date is different, it was last year, as thousands sat on the west side of Indianapolis in eager anticipation of "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing" that a handful of others scattered around the world paced in hope of a good word from Indianapolis Methodist Hospital. Natalie had been in surgery since 8:00 a.m. When the word came, alas, it was not, "Gentlemen, start your engines!"
On this holiday we traditionally pause in remembrance of our nation's military heroes. Today we remember the fight that Nattie put up in the face of insurmountable odds. A few days later, she would win the eternal prize.
Love you, girl...miss you more!
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 10:20 AM | Comments (4)
May 22, 2008
"Team Nattie" update
Thanks to Maria, Amy and her mother, Sara, Cynthia, Lesley and Anne, "Remembering Natalie Rose York" has already passed its initial goal. I think I'll double it and send a letter to some corporate friends...
I have been asked what is the difference between "Joining" and "Donating." As for dollar total, there seems to be no difference. However, it's nice to watch the number of team members rise, so I recommend that you click the "Join a Team" link, if given a choice.
Regarding deadlines for registration and donation, the "Grant County Relay for Life" is June 7, so you'll have to beat that date if you want your memorial to Nattie to count in the team total this year.
If you want to wear a "Relay for Life" T-shirt on June 7, but will not be here to pick it up at the event, I will have to get it for you no later than May 29.
All things considered, I recommend that all transactions be completed as soon as possible...say by Monday, May 26, if you can. If you can't do that, your support is welcome at any time, I just can't promise that you will get proper recognition before the fact. I hope you understand.
(((((Every one of you!)))))
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 10:16 AM | Comments (3)
May 19, 2008
"Team Nattie"
I have formed a team -- Remembering Natalie Rose York -- for the Grant County (Indiana) Relay for Life in Marion on June 7, 2008. Anyone who wishes to participate, either locally or at a distance, may register at the team website. I set the goal low enough, I think, but will gladly raise it if need be.
I will apologize in advance for the generic appearance of this page. I am still working on some persoalizing changes, but the options are limited.
If you want a T-shirt, please donate at least $20.00. ($50.00 is requested, but I don't want anyone to go hungry!) I will mail it to you on or about June 1. I should be able to get a list of donors' names and addresses when I pick up the shirts, but it would help to have those in advance. Make your donations to the above link, then send your USMail addresses to me at the one address I have been able to count on lately: brownhound1 at yahoo dot com (that's a Number One after the dog's name).
Note that you can also purchase a luminaria for $10.00 and your own memorial to Natalie will be printed on it.
And don't forget, if you want a "Letter to Nattie" posted here on her blogsite, I will do that through June 6. No charge.
(((((Y'all)))))
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 08:19 AM | Comments (1)
May 18, 2008
Another one of those days...
Tomorrow I will post a link to the page where you may register and donate--if you wish--to the team "Remembering Natalie Rose York" in the Relay for Life to be held on the one-year anniversary of the day we said goodbye.
Meanwhile, I continue to wonder at the string of events that played out one year ago. I can not reverse them any more than I could stop them. But they happened as they are written here, and all we have now are these memories.
And the promise that we shall meet again.
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 03:51 PM | Comments (0)
Her Life Flashed Before My Eyes
May 18, 2007, 11:43 a.m. From this moment forward, life shall never be the same.
I began a journal on this date, one year ago. Took many notes that make no more sense today than they did when written. Maybe someday I will be able to put them in readable order. Maybe not.
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 10:37 AM | Comments (2)
May 09, 2008
So Near and yet so Far
Only one more month remains before the first anniversary of Natalie's passing. As Heather has said, "Feels less and more at the same time."
Thinking of such things always brings back the sad feelings that we have worked so hard to overcome, but we are equally inspired to do whatever we can to keep Natalie's memory alive. And to call even further attention to the wonderful ways that she touched each of us.
Nattie's Mom and I have tossed a few ideas around, but decided nothing. So let's have your input. Not that we could ever do all that we wish, but to get a feeling for what you want or think appropriate.
One item that has already been mentioned briefly (also by Heather) is for you to write letters to your friend Nattie. Tell her how you miss her, and what has happened in your lives since she left us. Or whatever touches your heart. Then send them to me -- webmaster at nattierosewrites dot com -- and I will post them here.
I propose to do this in the 21 days between May 18, when she got her diagnosis, and June 7, when we said goodbye. You may send your letters at any time between now and then.
We may come up with other things to do through the tears, but one will require some advance planning.
Purely by coincidence, there will be a Relay for Life event near her hometown on June 7. Her mom, aunt, cousin and kids are planning to participate. Natalie did not live long enough to avail herself of any American Cancer Society's services, so I don't feel a personal obligation to repay them, but it is too great an opportunity to honor her memory by supporting this event and its worthycause.
I know that each of you has other obligations and I will not ask you to give any of your money or time, but I did want to tell you about it. If you wish to do this of your own free will, please comment accordingly. We would love to have you here, or to add your names to the list of Relay supporters, but will only start a "Team NattieRoseWrites.com" if a significant number of you tell me of your intent to participate or donate.
Let me know what you think...(((((y'all!)))))
PS: Our server has been a bit wonky of late, so if the above email address goes bouncy on you, use brownhound1 at yahoo dot com. It should work as long as Microsoft keeps their hands off it.
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 04:23 PM | Comments (8)
May 07, 2008
"Under the weather"
If you're into nostalgia, this is what Natalie posted here on May 4, 2007.
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 10:50 AM | Comments (4)
April 10, 2008
I could sit here all day...
waiting for inspiration, but I doubt that there is any other way to say it.
Natalie and Wes were married ten years ago today in Las Vegas.
Recognizing anything about which to be happy is difficult at times such as these, but we continue to be uplifted by your regular visits and comments. I want each of you, individually, to know that we appreciate your support beyond our ability to express.
Hugs.
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 09:40 AM | Comments (1)
February 29, 2008
Credit where credit is due
Back when I started posting archived entries, here, I told you this would always be Nattie’s blog. It will never be about me. Consequently, I considred not approving Uncle Brian’s comment. But it’s about her, too.
I did help publicize Boyd in the early days, but he was destined for fame and greatness before I met him. Some of his works had already been featured in print, and he was well on his way, even while working on one car at a time, with part-time help, in the garage behind his house. He would have been just as big if I had never come along...but this isn’t about him, either.
Somewhere there are photos of a junior-high-aged girl, bored out of her mind, sitting patiently in Boyd’s body shop while her daddy took pictures of Boyd, and (Ford Mustang) designer Larry Erickson, ZZ Top’s Billy Gibbons, and assorted camp followers, as they pored over the progress being made on Billy’s CadZZilla.
When Nattie’s Mom decided to stay here last summer, as long as she was needed, she borrowed a car from Wes’ mom. Realizing that Boyd might be able to bring Mary’s car in one of his trucks when they came to a show at Indianapolis in June. I asked a mutual friend to track him down--turned out he was more than willing to help, but his trucks had already left Anaheim.
He did phone to see how we were doing. Caught me at Natalie’s bedside on June 6, only 12 hours before she left us behind. He offered his sincere sympathies, thoughts and prayers. He said things were going great, and he enjoyed his frantic pace. And that was the last time we spoke.
I heard last month Boyd had been ailing, but never dreamed his condition would take such a drastic turn. There’s sadness everywhere. Now, our prayers are with the Coddington family, and our thoughts are of better days.
Hugs all around.
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 04:12 PM | Comments (1)
December 24, 2007
Good Tidings We Bring...
Melanie (left) and Natalie celebrated several colorful Chtristmases in California. Mel and Nat were best friends for more than 20 years.
And Thank You very much
...to all responsible for compiling and preparing the "Beautirul" book that arrived on Saturday.
Because of Natalie's eternal optimism, we were not allowed to say proper goodbyes. Nonetheless, on that last evening I did get to tell her, "Maybe I never told you this, but everyone else sure knows how proud I am of you."
She said, "Thank you." shortly before passing into her final sleep.
That overwhelming pride has been refreshed every time I hear or read how much my little girl meant to each of you.
Merry Christmas--Nattie's Daddy
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 09:59 AM | Comments (7)
December 15, 2007
25 years ago today...
My, my, how the years do fly, never to return.
Happy Birthday, Natalie. Thank you for the memories.
All my love -- Daddy
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 07:55 AM | Comments (18)
December 07, 2007
Anniversaries
While the rest of our country pauses to remember the bombing of Pearl Harbor, 66 years ago this morning, I feel compelled to point out that it has been half a year since, in the early hours, we said goodbye to our Nattie.
I feel as though I should be able to express myself more thoroughly, but today--as most days--words fail to keep up with my thoughts.
Natalie, I know you have enjoyed your first six months in heaven. Why couldn't you wait for me? Love you--Daddy
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 09:10 AM | Comments (2)
November 22, 2007
Thankful Thursday
I am thankful that my baby grew up to be a better writer than I. If not for Natalie's ability to reach out and connect with the world as she did, I would never have "met" so many of you who have helped me bear up under the grief of her passing.
As difficult as that has been to understand, it is no easier to express my gratitude to and for each of you.
Have a Blessed Thanksgiving Day! And hug your children...early and often!
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 06:00 AM | Comments (8)
November 14, 2007
Wordless Wednesday
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 12:48 PM | Comments (6)
October 17, 2007
Wordless Wednesday
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 10:23 AM | Comments (6)
September 27, 2007
Nothin' but a party!
Sunday was the long-awaited "official" celebration of Jonathan and Anna's July birthdays. Life for them, as for all of us, is very different than it was when the previous school year ended, but they seem to be doing well, considering...
They are now in their new home, attending their new school, and still "growing like weeds."
As always, a sincere thank you to each of Natalie's friends who continue to visit, read, comment, and offer their prayers and words of encouragement.
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 09:24 PM | Comments (7)
September 19, 2007
A Night at the Library
On the 28th of April, 2007, I got a text message from Natalie:
ÒJames alexander thom is going to be @ my library on 7-17. want to come?Ó
I have been a fan of ThomÕs work for several years. His meticulous research of our nationÕs history is obvious in the novels he crafts around the lives of real people and the events that touched their lives and formed the future of our country.
I had heard him speak once, and at another time accidentally discovered him signing books in an Indianapolis mall. On our Tuesday night outings in Southern California, Natalie and I often prowled the racks at various libraries and bookstores, always on the lookout for another book by James Alexander Thom.
Normally, I would have jumped at such an invitation. This time, however, I hesitated. Where I might have mentally noted the date, nearly three months hence, was a black hole. I had no premonition, but found myself unable to simply say, ÒAbsolutely, count me in!Ó
I replied to her text with words to the effect that it sounded interesting and I would try to keep that date open. I was aware that something was not as it should be, but couldnÕt determine what it was.
She had been having car trouble and was looking for a replacement; perhaps that was the source of my apprehension.
Also, it had been but 11 days since I had been shocked to hear the news of one young friendÕs passing. He had been somewhat of a protege, some 20 years earlier, and I took a bit of pride in his career success. Although we had not kept in constant touch, our paths would cross every year or two. Those occasions did seem to be coming more often, but I fear that was an age-induced delusion.
I had last spoken to him on May 11, 2005. He was at his job of editing books, and I had several questions about a project I was considering. He answered all my queries, then emailed a detailed follow-up.
There was no mention of illness or symptoms, yet I learned on April 17 of this year that scarcely 13 months after our conversation he had died of lymphoma and multiple sclerosis. He had passed on the day after my 60th birthday. He was 44.
No doubt I was still a bit dazed when I got NatalieÕs message regarding one of our favorite authors. That may be what clouded my perception, causing me to reply with such ambivalence, Probably, I will never know.
Of course, as you are aware, something did happen to alter those tentative plans.
On May 18, Nat got her own diagnosis of cancer. As her condition worsened, I feared that she might not be strong enough to keep our date for the 17th of July. Then she died on June 7...six days before my 61st birthday.
I did not know if I would want to attend Mr. ThomÕs lecture without Natalie, but as the date approached I learned that it had been postponed a couple of months. That may be what made it possible.
Last night, September 18, NatalieÕs Uncle Roger and I went to Òher library.Ó We entered through the doors that she had used so often. I had never been there before, but I knew she had touched nearly every shelf and book in the place. I couldnÕt see her, hear her or feel her, but I knew she was there.
We enjoyed an hour-and-a-half talk by Jim Thom on the researching and the writing of his New York Times bestseller, Follow the River. And then we left.
I sure wish I could have seen her smile, heard her chuckle and given her a hug...one more time.
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 02:00 PM | Comments (1)
August 08, 2007
Wordless Wednesday--1977
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 10:19 AM | Comments (10)
July 31, 2007
Jonathan Russell is Nine!
"Old" photos are a mixed blessing. The good side is obvious; sadly, they also remind us how fleeting life can be. I would not have enjoyed much of the past year had I known how quickly Natalie would be taknn, but hindsight can be overwhelming, just the same.
Happy birthday, Jonathan!
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 09:31 AM | Comments (5)
July 18, 2007
Almost Wordless Wednesday
Happy Birthday, Annabelle Rose!
Never take a year for granted!
Love you!--Grandaddy Geoff
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 09:04 AM | Comments (11)
July 09, 2007
From the fog...
...wherein Nattie's Daddy vacillates between, "What happened?" and "I know what happened, but I still can't believe it!" here are some random, sometimes rambling, thoughts.
Natalie will always be my baby girl, but that beautiful child didn't die. She grew up. Sometimes I feel myself wishing for the return of those early days, but it is more for my own vanished youth that I mourn than hers.
Keepsakes of the era--the Fort Wayne Komets T-shirt I made for the 10-day-old hockey fan to wear on her first Christmas, the Christmas Rose book her grandmother gave her on her second, the Raggedy Ann doll her babysitter made for her third, photos of other moments of our younger lives together--bring moments of sadness, but not in the way that reading her blog posts do.
These are actually small pieces of the young lady I miss. The "realness" of her writings causes feelings that approach those of one taking Communion.
The little girl I miss is the one who left us--the mother of my two grandchildren, the reader, the writer, the 30-something "God's Girl" who departed her body on the oncology floor of Methodist Hospital.
I am reminded of a theory discussed by Dr. Wayne Dyer. He opines that everything is thought. Everything that we see, hear, smell, taste or feel--in other words, everything we know--is merely the manifestation of mental images.
You may think your tongue, your ears, your nose and your eyes are talking to you, but is the brain that processes--and stores--all the data these sensors transmit. And virtually everything you hold true is the result of the accuulation of this data.
If we accept this, we can project that the people, places and things in our memories are also real. We may no longer be able to exchange messages, phone conversations, or hugs with our Nattie, but as long as we can hold on to the memories of our previous contacts, she will live.
This is some--albeit small--consolation for Natalie's grief-stricken survivors, for barely an hour passes that I don't think of something I want to tell, show or ask her. And the disappointment that comes with the realization that I can no longer do this is palpable.
But I guess you already knew that.
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 12:23 AM | Comments (9)
June 27, 2007
Wordless Wednesday
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Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 04:22 PM | Comments (6)
June 21, 2007
Is that all there is?
Thank you (have I said that before?) for continuing to visit NattieRoseWrites.com. I had no intention, I can assure you, of becoming a blogger when--less than a month ago--I posted my first update in my daughter's stead.
Many of you have thanked me for continuing to post. Surely you have noticed that I lack a certain quality that made this site so popular and its author so well loved. I ain't Nattie...OK? (Insert smile, here.)
Sometimes, we parents tend to think of our children as extensions of ourselves. Although we know better, we expect them to adopt our friends, adapt our logic, to assess their situations and make their decisions in the same ways we would. This, however, is rarely, if ever, the case.
Our offspring are the products of their genes and environments, not ours. My Natalie did not get her sweet optimistic spirit from me.
But Natalie isn't blogging anymore. And, now, the updating is done. Although we will continue to grieve indefinitely, we have said our goodbyes. her "Hobbit House" is empty, her accounts closed, her books donateed to her church and her library.
Jonathan and Anna miss their Mom, to be sure, but they now live with their dad and look forward to their birthdays in July.
All we have left are memories, a few photographs...and her written words. All I have left to say is a polar opposite to what you have come to expect to read, here.
I know that Nat is having the time of her life, but all I want to talk about is how unhappy I am. I feel sorry for myself--to say nothing of her mom, her kids, her extended family and all her friends--because the world just isn't the same without her.
Because many people still visit daily, I don't intend to remove this blog anytime soon. Fortunately, I am a minority investor in the box that serves the site, and the domain is registered for a few more years.
But I also know that those readers will soon fade away if new material is not added frequently, so I had an idea...
Thanks to Heather, Joanne and Cynthia from W@H, and the internet "Wayback Machine," I have the posts puiblished on the original "Nattie Writes," dating back to mid-2003.
I also have some things she wrote in the years before blogging became such an important part of her life and yours.
If you would like me to periodically post this material--some of it previously published, and some of it not--let me know. Otherwise, I cannot imagine that you would be interested in anything more that I could add.
Thanks for caring! (((((Y'all!)))))
Posted by Nattie's Daddy at 09:17 PM | Comments (21)
June 18, 2007
A Card from a Lifelong Friend
I owe a debt of gratitude to each of you for your good wishes and wonderful comments in Nattie's memory. I also received the following by "snail mail," and now pass it along to you, her friends worldwide . (Thanks to Joy; credit to Hallmark)--Nattie's Daddy
A rose may lose its bloom,
But still the fragrance lingers long.
A bird may fly away,
yet we can still recall its song.
So when someone who is loved departs
to join the Lord above,
They'll live and laugh and be with us
in memories of love.
"Your days of moruning will come to an end."--Isaiah 60:20 (MLT)
Posted by nattie at 01:22 PM | Comments (8)
June 15, 2007
Ashes to ashes, dust to dust...
The sky was clear, the sun wa bright and the grass was dusty. A small group of Carters, Wootens and Yorks gathered this morning to say our ceremonial goodbyes to Nattie's earthly remains. Her grandmother Julia read the following words:
"We know this small urn holds no 'ordinary' ashes, darling. They're all we have left of your beautiful life, and we've come to place them where we knew you'd want them most of all--near your beloved Grandma and Grandpa Wooten.
"And, no, that isn't all we have left--we have beautiful memories of your valiant spirit, your wonderful testimony of faith and trust in God, and your radiant triumph over all the pain life brought you.
"The word 'beautiful' has been used with purpose--that is how we will always remember you--our beautiful little girl...our Natalie Rose.
"Rest in peace, darling; we'll see you 'in the morning.'"
Then we took some pictures, exchanged a few more words and tearful hugs, and went our separate ways. Angel and Karla are helping Mary clean out the "hobbit house" apartment.
Four weeks ago today, Natalie phoned to tell me she was sick. What happened?--Nattie's Daddy
Posted by nattie at 03:38 PM | Comments (22)
June 14, 2007
Letters from Mommy's journal
(Written the day before her surgery; Natalie passed on a week and a half later.)
Dear Jonathan,
You are my first-born, my precious baby boy. Yuo have gotten so big I can't believe you are almost as tall as me or that you'll be 9 this July.
I want you to know that I love you. I know I haven't always been the best mommy but know this much--no matter what--I will always love you.
You are such an amazing little guy. Never stop dreaming, imagining or being creative. I know that if you want to you can be a great artist someday. You already are an artist.
Believe in yourself. I do.
Again, I love you. Never forget that.
5/26/07
Dear Anna,
My sweet baby girl--being your mom has been a joy.
I am only sorry that I've been sick so much of your life. I'm sorry that we haven't cuddled more, that you haven't read more to me. You are such a smart little girl. Yes, I called you a little girl because even though you are almost 7--you are my baby girl.
You are going to do just fine--in school and in life.
Never forget that mommy loves you, and so does God.
Mommy
5/26/07
Posted by nattie at 02:15 PM | Comments (3)
June 13, 2007
Happy? Birthday
I just had to mention--if for no other reason than to try to get a little bit of this selfish grief for my loss of Natalie's earthly presence off my back--I also have to suffer another birthday, today. (No flowers, please!)‹
I think I shall, henceforth, swear off Fathre's Days, entirely; wish I could do the same with the annual reminder of my advancing years. And, Anne, if you tell any of these young ladies how many, you know what's going to happen on November 12!
Meanwhile, my amazement over Nattie's outreach continues to grow. As the subject hadn't come up in sevaral months, I had neglected the server logs for this site. I finally ran them last night, and to use a Nattie-ism, "It blew my socks off!" On June 7, 1,027 peopl e visited NattieRoseWrotes.com. I am sorry she can't tell you how much she appreciated each one of you...so I will try.
Thank you very much!Nattie's Daddy
PS: Angie, Cheryl, Cynthia, Heather, Joanne and Valerie--You and your companions are part of Nattie's W@H family, and we were more than grateful to have you represent the rest of your sisters.
Mark--We all appreciate the effort you put forth--along with cousins David (North Carolina) and Laurie (also members of John's family from Florida and Texas)--to attend. Your musical contributions, as well as your dad's, couldn't have been more appropriate. I do hope we have a happier reason to meet the next time..r
Posted by nattie at 02:45 PM | Comments (19)
June 11, 2007
In Memorium
Natalie's memorial service is over. It truly was uniquely a blogger's send-off.
Her former pastor Brent spoke almost entirely in Nattie's own words from this site. Her cousin Mark from Colorado Springs played the piano and sang the last song she posted here. Blogging buddies Heather and Joanne read a passage they had resurrected overnight from the crashed "Nattie Writes" on the Internet Archive. Another cousin, Laurie from Auberry, California, read several comments posted June 7 in response to the question on the W@H site--"What do you love about our Nattie Rose?" All brought laughs and tears in similar numbers.
Thank you to Nat's Internet friends Valerie (Missouri), Joanne (Washington), Angie (Indiana), Cynthia (Illinois), Cheryl (Missouri), and Heather (Mississippi), who traveled to help us celebrate her life. We also appreciate the rest of you who joined us and our Natalie Rose, in spirit.
On a related note, the funeral director told me that the only person to get more guestbook entries on the Home's website was Bill Gaither's dad. Rock on, Nat!
I still do not intend to make this my blog, but I do have a few more things that I want to post in the not too distant future, so check back at your leisure.
Thank you for your prayers and good wishes.--Nattie's Daddy
Posted by nattie at 08:11 PM | Comments (13)
June 08, 2007
A few necessary details...
A brief obituary and memorial arrangements are now posted. You may sign the guestbook, there, and/or leave comments, here.
As always, we thank you, sincerely, for all your thoughts, prayers, and expressions of concern.
Posted by nattie at 02:45 PM | Comments (3)
June 07, 2007
Natalie Rose "Nattie" York
delivered on
December 15, 1973;
returned to Heaven
June 7, 2007.
Posted by nattie at 11:17 AM | Comments (67)