Tuesday, June 12, 2007

in tribute

We've been so busy this past weekend that I haven't had time to post anything, but I did try to check in on everyone else's blogs at least once. I was so saddened when I went to Nattie's yesterday. She valiantly fought and lost her battle with stomach cancer. When I first started reading her blog just a few short months ago when Annie and I signed up for her Newbery Challenge, she was well. But during that short period of time, she became very ill, found out she had cancer, had surgery, and then passed away. When I say valiantly, that is an understatement. Nattie had such an amazingly positive outlook! Truly, truly an inspiration! I didn't even know her, and I will honestly miss her.

I had a hard time deciding what to do with the Newbery Challenge now. I just can't bring myself to tell Annie about Nattie. I don't know why, but I can't. Not yet anyway. And I'm guessing that Nattie would want everyone to keep on reading. So I am going to continue with the challenge, remembering Nattie with every book I read.

6 comments:

maggie moran said...

What a nice idea, thinking of Nattie as you finish the Newbery Challenge. If it helps, in Newbery winner Kira-Kira main character Kayte's sister dies of cancer. It is a VERY touching story and may provide you the needed opening to get a conversation started about Nattie.

kreed said...

That stomach cancer is just wicked stuff - it seems to be so aggressive. I am sorry I didn't know Nattie - she sounds like a wonderful person. As far as telling Annie, your mommy instinct is great - you'll know when and if the time is right.

We did get a DVD of the recital - I would never torture you by making you sit through it, but I do plan to torture Aaron since he missed the fun!

The Taco Packets were posted on someone's blog last week around Menu Planning Monday time - can't remember whose. Maybe they'll pipe up here! It is a great recipe - sliced potatoes, chicken breast, taco seasoning, shredded cheese and a couple spoonfuls of salsa layered on foil and baked at 400 for about 35 minutes. Top with sour cream. Very flavorful and no mess to clean up!

Debi said...

Maggie-
Thank you. I'm surprised I didn't think of that myself...we've actually already read Kira-Kira. It was such a wonderful, wonderful book, and it may just be the perfect way to tell her.


Kara-
Well, I'll just watch the part with Bryn! That wouldn't be torturous at all!
I'm sitting here practically drooling over those taco packets...you're gonna have to let me now how they turn out!

Anonymous said...

How sad. I just went and skimmed through Nattie's blog. My heart really goes out to her family and friends. She seemed like such a sweet/fun person. It's amazing how quickly life can change.

Stacy at Exceedingly Mundane said...

Oh, how very sad. I think you're doing right, in continuing to read and honor her, and to remember her as you read your challenge books. How incredibly sad.

Melody said...

That's so sad. My heart really goes out to Nattie's family.

Debi, I'm with you about continuing the challenge. I'd have done the same thing too.