Monday, December 01, 2008

On the Road...again

I'm sitting in the green room of our first Christmas show here in Louisville, KY.  We were picked up at 5:30 this morning in Nashville.  Early mornings are not fun, people.  Especially when...well, let me tell the story.

We had a great time over Thanksgiving...we went to Greenville and saw family, hung out with friends that we haven't seen in a while, etc.  It was great.  We were going to go to Seacoast on Sunday, but then figured out that with leaving at 5:30, we were going to have to pay for another day with dogs' kennel stay, so we decided to leave in time to pick them up last night.

We gave ourselves six and a half hours to get to Nashville, what is normally a five and a half hour drive.  Then, we lost an hour and a half on I-40.  It narrowed down to 1 lane for literally a quarter of a mile.  A quarter of a mile cost us an hour and a half.

Then traffic was pretty incredibly high volume.  That slowed us down.  All in all, it took us almost 8 hours to get home.  That kinda sucked.  We didn't go to Seacoast and we didn't get the dogs...lose-lose.

We stayed up washing all my clothes and getting the merch ready for the tour, etc. and finally got to bed about 11:30pm.  4:30 of sleep later it was up and to the buses downtown and off to Louisville, where I'm sitting now.

So...

The Christmas EP is out this week.  It'll only be at shows.  So, contact those members who are going to shows and have them pick one up for you!  It's the 4 songs that I let you hear the demos for earlier...all mixed and mastered!  They sound really good!  In fact, it's encouraged my label and management to be okay with me producing the next album.

Speaking of that...this year has been pretty remarkable for a new artist: January and the beginning of February were spent finishing the album.  Mid-February, I finished mixing the album 1 day and drove out with Jon Skaggs to start the promo/radio tour the next.  That lasted till April.  Then GMA week.  Then, more promo.  Then the first leg of the tour.  Then vacation.  Then touring, touring, touring!

This year will end with me playing 117 real shows.  On top of that I've made about 150 appearances on tv, radio, websites, interviews, etc.  That's the ones I can count.  I feel like there've been more that I just didn't keep track of.  I'm tired, to be honest.   But I think the NewSong Christmas tour is going to be pretty restful, even though we're playing almost every night!  At least I get to sleep on a bus every night instead of trying to lay down in a van!

Next year...well, next year is looking to be pretty crazy.

In January, I'll record the majority of the 2nd album.  What?!!!  I know I haven't even let you guys know about this yet!  I have 13 songs that we're going to record, plus the Requiem and there may be more later!  But we feel like we need to be ready to release in September of 2009 if we HAVE to, even though we probably won't release it till some time in early to mid 2010.  So, I'll be hitting the studio the first 2 weeks of January to track the songs.

Then the next 2 weeks, in between weekend shows, I'll be producing a band out of Colorado called Rough Draft.  We're gonna be doing an EP of 6 songs or so to try and help them get signed.  I'm excited...I really like their stuff and I think they have a great possibility to be great.

Then in February to the beginning of March I'll be hitting the road on a headlining tour with Meredith Andrews and possibly Phil Stacey (depending on his schedule with recording his new album and such).

Then in March I hit the road with Natalie Grant.  We're doing 35 or so shows through April and into May a little bit.  That'll be fun.  We're doing 1500-2500 seat places and I'll be going on right before Natalie every night, doing a 35 min set!  So, that'll be really fun!

Then in May, I'm working on a couple of bands with major labels...I'll be producing them hopefully around that time.  

In June throughout the summer, I'll be headlining the faith nights at about 35 minor and major league baseball parks before games.  I'll probably have an opener, though I'm not sure who that will be.  And that will be booked around festivals all summer long.

Then in Sept - Oct, I'll be hitting the Back to School tour again!  I'm excited about that.  This time, we have a lot more time to organize and we'll make it an actual tour with an opener or two and it should be really cool.

Somewhere in there, I'll be finishing recording the Christmas album, doing auditions for tv/film (we just signed with a new agent in NY) and producing as many acts as I can.

Next year is going to be busy, busy, busy.  

So, all that to say this: thanks so much for helping me have the year I've had.  It's been really great and you guys have had much to do with my success this year!

125 comments:

Cathy Storms said...

Wow...You are one busy dude...
All the touring coming up and the new album, amazing....
It sounds like next year is already going to be major crazy for you.
I'm very excited for you.
Maybe one of those tours will finally make it to California...please...please....

risalea said...

OK, I'm going to make this offer for any of you that want Chris's EP. I will be seeing him in Paragould on Wed. night. If you want a copy, I will buy it and ship it to you. Email me off the blog at mkismybiz@aol.com with your mailing address. Chris, how much is the EP? Just add the postage cost to that and you can send it after you receive it. Please email me no later than Tuesday night, Dec. 2, as I won't be going home on Wed. between a school visit and hitting the road. It's a good little drive from here.

Chris, are you going to be able to save a weekend for the picnic? It sounds like your schedule is very busy. (of course, busy is good!) Time is coming up soon that we will have to reserve a park, and let folks know the date so they can make their plans. (Wouldn't it be glorious if the gas prices stayed as low as they are now?!) Let us know what you are thinking about that.

It all sounds exciting! Glad you had a good visit with family and friends.

EmilyBoo said...

Risa, THANK YOU! I will email you momentarily about the EP. And I too would like to know if Chris will have time available for the picnic! Also, your tree is beautiful!

Chris, blessings on all these new projects, especially recording again (already?!) in January. I hope to see a few Michigan dates on your schedule next year, and I don't mean Traverse City, it's TOO FAR. :P Would you by any chance be doing Lutheran Night at Comerica Park (Detroit Tigers?) Our church teams always make it a group outing!

Ben said...

Wow, you are extremely busy! That is very exciting that you have that much going on. I went to one of your concerts a couple months back. I had a blast and can't wait til your back in the area.

You said something about doing faith nights at ball games. Are you going to do anything at Christian Family Day at Busch Stadium (St. Louis Cardinals)? If so, that would be awesome...

DJ in AL said...

Risa,

Needless to say, I want one, probably more than one depending on price. Thank you!

I gotta bad feeling about the picnic after looking at Chris's 09 schedule! I also have a feeling this is the way it's gonna be for years to come and I'm seriously happy for you Chris!Your life sounds pretty fun right now, I hope you are able to enjoy it.

Anonymous said...

Wow-- just...wow! A year at a glance, that's crazy. You will be one busy dude! I guess tho, busy is a good thing. :-) Sounds great!

I hope the season ahead is a wondrous one. Being on a Christmas tour is kind of sweet, you know?

Cathy Storms said...

Risa~You so rock girlfriend. What a nice thing to do for the "Fro Patro" family. Chris~make sure you take enough of the Christmas EP...

I am also wondering about the picnic. The time will be here before you know it..

Anonymous said...

Well, I wish you a great 2009 then!

I too was on I-40 on Thanksgiving eve, and after 2 hours of going at glacial pace, I can't properly describe the angst I felt at seeing a briefly coned off section of interstate that seemed to be perfectly drivable. About an hour later, I realized that I could have been a superhero by pulling over after the cones, then grabbing each one and tossing them into the woods. Much like George Constanza, I simply realized too late what I should have done.

In other news, I rear-ended someone on the way back, also on I-40. Good times!!!

Rebecca (Ramblings by Reba) said...

Chris, I caught a few moments of a TV Guide Channel special on what some of you AI dudes are up to.

The part about the woman who wanted to sleep with you was funny... not THAT she wanted to sleep with you, but HOW you told the story...

You manage to keep a sense of humor in many situations that aren't funny on its face. Good for you. :)

Anonymous said...

I'm very excited for you. I won't be completely satisfied until we can walk into any music store and find your smiling face on a CD. I really think you deserve to be there.

Hischild said...

Thanks for the update, Chris. I was dying on the vine here.
Glad you Thanksgiving could be spent w/old friends.
Wishin' I could get to one of your Christmas concerts BUT a HUGE thank you to Risa!! I will at least be able to own a piece of it to play at will.

Risa, just want to say, you are awesome! I'll email you.

Anonymous said...

I have Christmas-fied the MS, and Chris's songs are up there! Now's the season, so put them up there, for your peoples to hear! :-)

There has been a bit of a tussle going on of late, about Christmas spirit, and songs, and all that. I personally think that while some years Christmas spirit may be harder to generate, it IS there to participate in, and share with the ones around us. By Chris being willing to embrace the meaning of the word in July or whatever it was, we now have it and feel it.

Thanks for that.

Carmen said...

Chris,
Wow your 09 schedule sounds intense! I am so glad your dream of doing what you love for a living is coming true but please be careful and don't over do it. We all want you to to make sure to take care of yourself.

I am with Randy, I too am waiting for the day when I can walk into any music store and see your face on a CD. That would be heaven!!

Risa, girl thanks in advance for getting me a copy of the CD. You are a gem! I am going to try to make it to the Lakeland show but it isn't until about 10 days before Christmas and I want my EP sooner. So thank you, thank you.

DJ & Cathy,
I am with you two. I hope we can have the picnic this year but totally understand if Chris's schedule is too tight for it. He's got to do what he's got to do.

Carmen

Megan said...

Wow, you certainly are going to be busy! Wishing you the best of luck in all the things you will be doing. Thank you for letting your fans into your life! Hope that you come to Michigan on one of those tours! <3 Megan

rosalee said...

Maybe we'll still have the picnic - but will it still be in Nashville?

Speaking of the schedule - me and Harry are looking to go to the Albany, NY WinterFest on Dec. 27th to see you, Brandon and Blake. Yes - it's another 3 hour drive, unfortunately. But if the weather holds up, we will come.
GDA - you are welcome to join us or meet us up there. I am still trying to arrange your official "blind date" so that the two of you can finally meet (and us, for that matter - LOL)

Cathy Storms said...

Rosalee~Winterfest sounds like fun. GDA~hope you can make it to go with Rosalee and Harry.
Chris is still Deliah's best friend but Harry holds a very close second...

We could have the picnic in California...The weathers perfect and we could even have it at my house. I know it's way on the other side of the United States but I would love to have all the blog family visit....

risalea said...

Oh, blind date...you can't leave us hanging, Rosalee! GDA, you need to meet up with them. Sounds like a fun night.

I was supposed to go to a school today and leave from there for Paragould, but my DH was stressing over the Christmas boxes everywhere, so I stayed in to help him finish decorating, and plus, I won't be so worn out driving back late tonight. Luckily, they don't know when I am coming when I do a review, so I have a little flexibility.

OK, got to take care of some work things and then get ready to hit the road in a little while. Y'all take care. Chris, I hope you've got plenty of EP's---I've got quite a list of folks who want them!

chamilton said...

Risa,
safe travels to you and thanks so much for being the one to get us all Sligh goodies. I know that will make my season brighter. Enjoy the show.

Candy

rosalee said...

WinterFest is an afternoon gig. They have 2 shows at the Palace Theatre - at 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM, and then another performance in front of City Hall at 5:00 PM.

http://www.dailygazette.com:80/news/2008/dec/02/1202_winterfest/

I notice that Albany has a "Capital Buffet" restaurant that has a Mongolian Grill. There is also an IHOP.......

Have fun later, Risa.

ChrisSligh said...

Uh oh...bad news!

The EPs were supposed to get here today...we didn't have them last night...but the reproduction people for some reason didn't realize there was a rush on them. So, we have no EPs.

This really sucks.

So, what we can do is I'll go ahead and have Risa buy them and then I'll actually send her how ever many she needs.

Chris

Cathy Storms said...

Oh that is bad news. No worries...
At least we know they are coming...

Thanks again Risa for doing this for us...Safe travels to see Chris.

risalea said...

ROAD REPORT-Chris is in awesome voice tonight. Videos will be up tomorrow. The whole show is great-see it, even if you have to drive to Montgomery (DJ!)

Amy's Purple Poodles said...

HELLO! Guess what I finally got from my brother? My pictures! There was also a video but he couldn't get it on the CD.

Chris-you sound so busy-you've already got next year planned! You're way ahead of me-there is no way I could plan that far ahead into the future. Speaking of the future-I hope you are still planning to have the picnic-I have been thinking about it since reading about the last one.

Risa-thank you very much for getting Chris's EP for us! I hope I can still get one-I didn't read this blog until 12/3. I'll e-mail you my address.

I also saw the same clip that Rebecca had seen on TV Guide channel where Chris is telling the story about the woman that wanted to sleep with him. I thought the way he told the story was funny. That must be one sick woman-she said she was married too-how can someone have such little respect for a commitment they have made to another person. I'm glad Chris is true to himself and would never do something like that to his wife.

Hope everyone had a great turkey day! Chris-I hope you didn't have to eat turkey and stuffing for Thanksgiving! I remember reading one of your blogs where you said you hated turkey and stuffing and just writing about it made you sick! I thought that was funny. I don't like turkey either.

risalea said...

Back home, and let me just say, the Lord looks after crazy women who don't have any better sense than to go 2 1/2 hours to a concert and drive home alone and get home after 1 am. It was raining tonight, but by the time I left from visiting with Tammy and Lindsay for awhile afterward, it slowed down and was clear most of the way home.

The Christmas concert was fantastic...you must go see it if you can. As you've already seen from Chris's post, the EP's weren't in, but as soon as he is able to get them to me, I will turn around and mail to those who wanted one. I did purchase extra, as I had two more requests for them tonight, so if you want one and haven't told me, I probably can help you out.

OK, videos tomorrow...too tired tonight. Later, friends!

Carmen said...

Risa,
Glad you had a great time at the show. I can't wait to see it. I am either going to the Savannah show or the Lakeland one. Glad you got home safe & sound.
Carmen

rosalee said...

Driving long distances late at night alone is a dangerous thing to do! I could never do that.

Could you tell us his full set list?
Also, how were the other artists?
Where did Chris play in the line-up?

Glad you had a good time!

EmilyBoo said...

Oh, what a bummer that the EPs weren't in on time. Thanks so much Chris, for allowing Risa to buy them for us anyway! I hope others who attended the concert still have the opportunity to get it too, though.

Risa, I look forward to hearing all about the Christmas concert! None of the dates are remotely close to me, the closest being Cincinnati, a 5 hour drive in good weather (and let's face it, it's December.) Even if it wasn't quite so far though, I still wouldn't be able to make that concert because I sing in my church Christmas concert on the same day. Someday I'll be able to make a Chris Sligh concert!

chamilton said...

Risa
Glad you made it home safe and that you had fun. What a bummer that the EP's were not in I was totally looking forward to it soon.
Thanks again for getting those for us. Get some rest. talk to you soon.

Candy

Cathy Storms said...

Risa~glad you made it home safe and sound. You are one brave lady..
It sounds like the concert was awesome.

gdahimself said...
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gdahimself said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
gdahimself said...

Risa,

I'm glad you had a good time, especially after all the driving.

Chris,

"...the reproduction people for some reason didn't realize there was a rush on them. So, we have no EPs."

When did the reproduction people think you needed them? To given them out on Christmas Morning.

Don't they have any perception of getting things available for the limited time before Christmas?

DJ in AL said...

Risa,

Details please once you are recovered.

risalea said...

No time for recovery...I'm working! Trying to prepare for an after school program review today (which I've not done before) I'll try to get on here tonight, after Bunco. I'm uploading videos and it's taking FOREVER!

Cathy Storms said...

At my radiation treatments they play music. Some good, some pretty sucky, so I asked my tech if he liked Chris Sligh. He asks "The guy from AI season 6'? I say yes, he's the one. He said he loved him!! So I asked if I could donate Chris's CD for the collection and if they would play it. He replied with "Heck Yeah." So starting tomorrow all the radiation patients will be hearing Chris during their treatments. WhooHoo!!!! That should brighten all of their days.

DJ in AL said...

Cathy, so is so cool! Promoting Chris in the ahem, most unusual places! Hey if his voice can't lift them up a little, nothing can:)

risalea said...

OK, first of all, a couple of songs from last night....

"When You Come Home Again"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=82Z2TUyTRwI

and one you probably wouldn't expect, with a little Chris Sligh twist--
"Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0OOo8e76nZs

I've got some more, but they are taking forever to load...I'll try to set up some to load overnight.

Chris did a solo part on "Oh Holy Night", and I'm sorry to say I wasn't ready to roll as the whole group came out and did that number first, but I do have part, and that's one I've got to get up. I believe that's the highest I've ever heard Chris sing, and he hit every note. He also did "Empty Me" and "Vessel", and there were other whole group numbers.

Everyone was great....I had no idea Newsong had done the song "Christmas Shoes"--call me slow--and the most precious young boy came out and helped them sing it. Of course, you can't listen without bawling, and I was by Tammy, and well, you can imagine. I enjoyed Ayiesha and Rush of Fools as well.

Well worth the trip, and again, go see the show if you can. Rosalee, I guess I've always been pretty independent..if I have somewhere I want to go, I just pick up and go, though it would have been smarter to leave as soon as the concert was over, timewise, but then I couldn't have visited with Tammy. And I probably would have run into more rain.....Gaylon said it poured here, so it all worked out. As long as I've got my cell phone and my AAA card, I don't worry too much. My mama drove alone to see my sister when she was still in Atlanta until she was in her later 70's--I guess it's genetic. LOL

BTW, please keep Tammy in your prayers on Sat. That's the St. Jude Walk/Marathon and she's walking in Amanda's memory along with several of Amanda's friends. It will be an emotional day for her.

Night, all! p.s. Chris, Nikki was very grateful for her picture of you with the birthday wishes for her fiancee.

EmilyBoo said...

Thanks for the videos, Risa!

"Christmas Shoes" is THE song I know Newsong for! I cry every time too! Have you seen the movie based on the song? It stars Kimberly Williams Paisley as the mom.

Anonymous said...

Cathy-- re: the cd? Talk about a "captive audience!":-D LOL. seriously though, I'm sure lots of people will enjoy hearing it, that's a great idea. Inspired, even. What a nice way for him to reach more receptive(we hope) ears.

"Christmas Shoes" is almost un-listenable for me. I hate it when people sing about such sad things.I know there's a corner of the market(and poetry) where they dwell on the morose, but I just don't want to go there.

Everyone starting their Christmas Card list? Hmm? The festivities have begun!

Cathy Storms said...

Risa~Thanks for the videos. I love them. Rocking around the Christmas tree was awesome. Had me dancing in my room....Sounds like a really good concert to go see over the holidays.

rosalee said...

Thanks for the videos, Risa!
That was very entertaining!

HstryQT said...

Thanks for filling us in! Everything sounds so exciting - especially the Natalie Grant tour and a possible Phil Stacey tour. Looking forward to it all!

It's awesome hearing all of your numbers - like over 150 appearances, etc. - it's cool quantifying your hard work this past year!

Take time to enjoy Christmas! I'm hoping one of my Fro Patro ladies can come through with a cd for me, as you won't be near Indy - I can't wait to have that EP!!! You have one of my favs on it; so I'm thrilled! (Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas).

Hope everyone's having a stress-free December so far!

Lori

risalea said...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FZXuP3PL88I

Oh, Holy Night--sorry it doesn't start at the first of the song, but I got Chris's solo part.

Off to a Christmas party...later!

Cathy Storms said...

O Holy Night ~ Awesome!!!
Thanks Risa

Amy's Purple Poodles said...

Risa-I'm glad you had an awesome time at the concert! Wish I could go but Chris isn't going to be anywhere near CO-neither is Amy Grant. Boy, I was really mad! She came to Denver about 10 years ago but by the time a friend and I found out about the concert it was already sold out. I hope and pray that one day I'll get to see her in concert again (I've been once), and I'll be waiting for the day I get to see Chris again-hopefully that won't be ten years from now! I'm glad you had a safe trip.

Cathy-I think it is awesome that you are promoting Chris by donating one of his CDs to the place where you have radiation. At least people will have something great to listen to while they're getting treatment.
I am wearing my Fro shirt from Chris's concert in Littleton. I love it-it's so cool!

Unknown said...

hey ya'll! i got to see the new song christmas concert last night in kinston nc!! i wasn't sure if i was going to be able to go. it was truly awesome!!

robyn said...

chris,
do you think you will be going on the winter tour?

live for Christ said...

Our family saw you in Paragould, AR Dec.3rd. The performance was far above our expectations! We bought your CD & love it. Thanks for coming to our town! May God give you the strenth to accomplish the goals you've set for 2009.
Merry Christmas!!!!!!!!
Richard, Linda, Brittney & Brandon

risalea said...

Robyn, so glad you got to go!

Richard and family, welcome! and hope you got a chance to see some of the videos taken that evening.

Speaking of which, here's the last two:

Empty Me, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FK3M3MOV4m4

Vessel, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hD2Q209G__Q

Anonymous said...

I saw the Lakeland date & it's about 4 hours north of me, as always :( I don't post as much as I used to because I usually don't have much to say but I still check the blog as always. I truly don't believe there is a more genuine, friendly, passionate fanbase out there for any artist than everyone in here is for Chris, I love it.

Risa, I'm going to watch the videos now! :)

Carmen said...

Tawny,
Yeah Lakeland is a pretty good drive for me too! Not that I am usally willing to make a drive but being on a Sunday night and then driving the 3-4 hours home and trying to get up in the morning. Yuch! I am going to the one in Albany GA on Monday night. It is closer for me and will make driving home a lot easier.

Cathy Storms said...

Richard, Linda & family ~ welcome to the blog and thanks for sharing about the concert. So glad you got to go.

Robyn~How cool that you got to see the show.

Risa~Thanks again for all the videos.

Anyone else planning to go see one of the shows?

rosalee said...

Hey Risa -

Thanks for the rest of the videos.
Was Jon Skaggs there?

Cathy -
That was a very novel approach to promote "Sligh music/CD awareness".

Cathy Storms said...

Just doing my part..lol..
Plus, then I get to listen to Chris during my treatments. That has to make them a little cheerier...

DJ in AL said...

Yeah Robin for getting to see Chris, good for you.

Welcome, welcome Richard, Linda, B & B, glad you loved Chris, we do too! You have friends here.

Tawny we have missed you, but know you are here in spirit, as is Lori! We know you drop by when you can!

risalea said...

Jon was there, and I enjoyed chatting with him, as always. He wasn't playing, as Chris was doing his album numbers acoustic. He was in charge of the merchandise this trip.

Haven't heard yet about the EP's. It looked like they are getting a few days break after tonight's show before heading out again...maybe we'll hear from Chris on the status of those. Chris, are they on the way yet, or soon?

Tawny, it is always good to hear from you!

I put a few pics up on photobucket. I don't know why everytime I get a picture with Chris it turns out blurry...but, it is what it is. Tammy and Lindsay are with me in that one, and there is one of Jon and me and a few stage shots. And my magnificent mantel and tree. Thanks, honey! LOL

http://s211.photobucket.com/albums/bb163/risalea/Christmas%20concert/

chamilton said...

Carmen,
I just previewed the book!! I am LOL that is wonderful. You go girl!!!

risalea said...

I think the rabbit is the cutest character, don't you, Candy? LOL

Anonymous said...

Check this out

www.youtube.com/watch?v=Us-TVg40ExM

They unite through music

www.youtube.com/user/PlayingForChange

chamilton said...

Risa,
Without a doubt the rabbit was the cutest but D.J the deer and Cathy are too cute too.

Cathy Storms said...

Did you all notice the pink scarf on Cathy the Cardinal? Carmen's special message. Way to go Carmen..

Today at radiation they played Chris's CD. It made it so much more enjoyable. And when I left I could still hear it playing through the walls. WhooHoo!! Now thats the way to liven up a very sad and dreary room...

Amy's Purple Poodles said...

Rabbit? Deer? I'm confused-something about a book? And where was the Poodle?

I am glad everyone who is going to the Christmas concert is having a good time?

risalea said...

Amy, it's a children's book Carmen wrote. Go to www.chris-sligh.info for more, well, info!

Carmen said...

Amy,
Sorry no poodle. I started writing this book some time ago-- before the poodle. If any of you want you can preview the book at: http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/invited/287272/36ab6155cb5623d4565ec58f48464c62

or you can just go the fan site and scroll down to the pic of me and Chris with the book. Rosalee has provided a link to preview and order if you are interested.
Personally I love all the characters. There is something special about each one. Cathy Cardinal has a pink ribbon, DJ Deer is a guy (Thanks DJ for being a good sport about that one! I still laugh everytime I think of Chris thinking you were a DUDE!) and Risa Rabbit is always giving great advice.

I really enjoyed writing the book & illustrating it. Maybe someday Chris can write a song to go with it. That is when he is not so busy!! LOL

Carmen said...

Here is the link again:
http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/invited/
287272/36ab6155cb5623d4565ec58f48464c62

Sorry that did not come through. You can hit the preview button and it will let you see part of the book.

rosalee said...

I bought 2 books - one for us and one for the grandchildren.
Carmen - feel free to add info on the message board threads.

Randy -
Interesting "Stand by Me" video. What I found amusing was "Santa Monica Sligh" (in black, leaning against a tree) at the :07 mark, 4:52 mark and 5:02-5:07 mark. Separated at birth?

Cathy Storms said...

Carmen's book is the perfect gift for any "Sligh" fan.
And you can bring your book to the picnic next year and have Carmen sign it for you. Way Cool....

Carmen said...

Yeah I will be more than happy to sign any books at the picnic. There is also a nice photograph of all the characters at the end of the book. Kind of cool to put the faces with the illustrations.
And oh the the rabbit is pink because everyone knows that Mary Kay is all about pink!!

Amy's Purple Poodles said...

Carmen-I think its cool you wrote a children's book! Can you get the book at bookstores or just on the internet-always worried about using my credit card number on the web. I'll have to look at the preview at Chris's website. If you write another one don't forget the POODLE! (just kidding!

Speaking of the picnic, has anyone heard anything about it?

risalea said...

Amy said: Speaking of the picnic, has anyone heard anything about it?

We're on go, just waiting to see if Chris is going to be able to work in a weekend for it.

Anonymous said...

Carmen-- looking forward to previewing your book! Preview temp disabled--but I'll check back later. :-)
I seriously doubt there was a dumb fluffy Horse in the story, but you know she was there somewhere, lurking.

Rosalee-- *pokes* You got my joke, anyway. I think Cathy sharing the music with other people, (even if it is in a medical scenario) is a wonderful idea. Yup.

Looking forward to viewing O Holy Night, as it's one of my favorites.
I have been in a pretty festive Christmas mood this year, and sentimentally enjoying all the little things of the season. I hope you all are having your share of joys, too.

Cathy Storms said...

Well at radiation, Chris's CD is in the mix that plays all day. So cool...Certainly makes radiation a little more pleasant. The hardest part is you have to be very still and I keep singing along and tapping my toe. Luckily the tech's just laugh and say "Be still".....

EmilyBoo said...

Chris or Risa,
Any word on the EPs? I really hope to be able to add it to my Christmas playlist before Christmas! :)

Anonymous said...

:-) *Hugs Cathy*

Cathy Storms said...

Thanks Bully. That really means a lot to me...

risalea said...

Hey, guys, heard from Chris today and he plans on putting the EP's in the mail to me tomorrow. I'll turn around and get them to you as soon as I get them.

Risa

Cathy Storms said...

WhooHoo!! Thanks Risa and Chris

HstryQT said...

Thanks for thinking of me DJ!

Class ended last week and I was actually able to sit and read through some of the comments & saw your mentioning me - I am definitely here in spirit :).

I may have missed some info - can someone fill me in? Do we know if Chris' Christmas songs will be released to radio. Will we be hearing them on KLOVE? Or are they just on the albums available at the shows? I've been keeping my ear out on the radio, but don't know if it's in vain.

Cathy Storms said...

Hey Lori, it's good to hear from you.
I think their just available at his shows.
I saw some of your pictures on facebook of Teddy. He is getting so big and he is so cute...

risalea said...

Lori, just noticed he has your favorite and his "When You Come Home Again", up on myspace.

BTW, Lori is spending part of her time whipping my bootie on Facebook Scrabble! LOL

DJ in AL said...

Hey Lori, and all! I have been out of commission most of the week but am feeling on the mend today. Not much going on around here I see.

Guess I am going to have to break down and join Face Book, first MySpace and now this, good grief!

Happy Friday to all!

Cathy Storms said...

Thats ok..my grandaughters are whooping me at Pathwords. Arg.....
Their only 5 and 8...lol...

rosalee said...

FYI -

Billboard's 2008 year-end charts are in.

Chris's "Empty Me" reaches number 24 in the Hot Christian Songs chart:

http://www.billboard.com/bbcom/yearend/chart_display.jsp?f=Hot+Christian+Songs&g=Year-end+Singles

And number 22 on the Hot Christian Adult Contemporary Songs chart:

http://www.billboard.com/bbcom/yearend/chart_display.jsp?f=Hot+Christian+Adult+Contemporary&g=Year-end+Singles

EmilyBoo said...

Thanks Risa, I'm looking forward to seeing some mail from you! Also, I didn't know scrabble was back on facebook for American users! I was sad when they took it away several months ago.

Anyone who is willing, can you please pray for my friend Renee and her family? She just gave birth to her second child 3 months early. He is only 2 lb. 2 oz. The baby's name is Ayden.

Cathy Storms said...

Of course Emilyboo~I will pray for your friend and her baby...

Cathy Storms said...

Today is my grandaughter "Miss Rebekah"'s 8th birthday.
Happy Birthday Bekah...

risalea said...

Happy Birthday, Bekah! She's turning 8 and Ethan is 18 tomorrow. These birthdays so close to Christmas are challenging! Hope y'all have a fun day.

Cathy Storms said...

Happy Birthday to Ethan also...Yep these birthday's are way to close to Christmas...

HstryQT said...

Cathy I tried to start a Facebook Scrabble game with you and you ignored me :( ... :) - I'll try again - trust me, you'll love it!

And Risa, usually I'm horrible at Scrabble. I just got good letters this game. So far on Facebook Scrabble I've won 10 and lost 45. No joke. Oh and Clearsa and I have played a lot too :).

DJ you must come to Facebook - it's where I live. I upload Teddy pics there, not Myspace, because I can't keep up with both. Facebook's much more interactive and fun, IMO. If only Chris would go there more often! :( He never accepted my friend request from over a year ago but it's OK -no hard feelings. I know he likes me! haha.

Hope everyone is continuing to enjoy their holiday - rather than be stressed by it - Christmas is just the best.

Lori

PS: Thanks for the heads up on the Christmas songs on myspace!

DJ in AL said...

Happy Birthday to all the youngins!

DJ in AL said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Cathy Storms said...

Lori~I'm sorry if I ignored you. So I can assume game is on...I'm really bad at scrabble. I'm hooked on the pathwords and trying to beat you and Audra.

Cathy Storms said...

Man ~ we are having the storm to beat all storms here today. Rain and wind that I haven't seen in a really long time...Okay, so it doesn't even come close to the storms that some of you are having but this is California...We hardly ever even get rain....

risalea said...

Well, it looks like everyone is busy, busy, as it is around the Ratliff house. I've written nary a card, with good intentions the last two weekends. And I still haven't mailed my out of state packages, but hope to do that tomorrow, as I'm not going out on a review again until Wed. I did finish most of my shopping, though, and Christmas baking, well, that's left to be seen if that will get done. I'm actually trying to be good...took two weeks to lose the 4pounds I managed to gain Thanksgiving week (WHY is it so hard to lose and so easy to gain?!) I've got to get a Mary Kay order in tonight, and finish a review, oh yea, and put a word in on the Scrabble games I've got going with Clearsa and Emily...it's addictive!

I had a wonderful, relaxing evening last night. Jerome Williams is the worship leader at Pleasant Valley Church of Christ and he did a set at a coffee shop last night after evening service...Christmas songs and even a couple of church numbers we all joined in on (y'all know "These Are the Days of Elijah"?--love that song) Listened and sang and enjoyed my hot chocolate (love to smell coffee...can't stand to drink it!) Really had the Christmas spirit by the time I left.

Chris, hope the tour is going well...let us hear from you if you get a chance.

And one more EP report---Jon Skaggs, Chris's wonderful drummer, said he was putting those in the mail to me today. I'll turn them around asap. Thanks for your patience!

Anonymous said...

Hi Mr Sligh

Ive been readoing your blog since I found out about it about a year and a half ago. Im thinking of trying out for X factor next year and wanted your advice on which song you think I should do. These are recordings with windows voice recorder there not the best but they should give a basic ideo of what I sound like


http://www.sendspace.com/file/w1le3f - me singing fields of gold

http://www.sendspace.com/file/myyn1x- overjoyed

http://www.sendspace.com/file/17xqhs and blame it on the boogie

Anonymous said...

Carmen, I checked out the preview for your book and I love it! I may buy it to give to Amelia as she gets older. She's already into books, she loves being read to.

rosalee said...

ChristianityToday.com recently held a Readers' Choice Christian Music Awards poll. Close to 6,000 participated. I was not aware of it, but we should be on the lookout for it next year. Chris came in 5th in Best New Artist Category.

http://www.christianitytoday.com/music/reviews/2008/2008readerschoice.html

risalea said...

I saw that Rosalee....perhaps foreshadowing the possibility of Chris being nominated for Best New Artist for the Dove Awards?

Sleet covered streets this morning closed schools (you know we come to a screeching halt in the South with a little frozen precipitation) and it is cold!

Hischild said...

Yippee! EP soon! Thanks Chris, Jon and Risa. Good team effort!

Risa,
I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE Days of Elijah!!! Wish I coulda been there with ya.

I have really exciting news about my upcoming Christmas Eve happenings but I'd better let you all know after it's over. Darn!

Carmen,
Your book looks cool! We have an author among us! Wow!

Rosalee,
Great news about Chris' rankings! I still think he can make the New Artist nomination for the Doves even though this seems like the year for LOTS of great new people/groups. 5th place is pretty good but we all KNOW he's the *true* leader of the pack.

Warning: Risa's a very skilled Scrabble player, you guys! Accept offers at your own peril.

Blessings to you all!
~clarissa or
(clearsa) :o)

risalea said...

Clearsa said: "I have really exciting news about my upcoming Christmas Eve happenings but I'd better let you all know after it's over. Darn!"

No fair! You can't drop that and leave us hanging!

And the Scrabble thing? Pure beginner's luck! Lori is out for revenge as we speak! LOL

Cathy Storms said...

Ok..so how do I get in on the scrabble game. I really suck at it but it sounds like fun.

I think you guys should get in on the pathwords game also. My daughter and grandaughters are kicking my butt at it...

Hischild said...

Risa,
I'm sorry. You'll understand later. If I can't get a thrill telling it, then I thought maybe I'd get a small release hinting at it. Ha ha.

Cathy,
Just download Scrabble Beta to your profile and you'll see how to invite a friend to a game. It's very simple. I'd love to play ya!

EmilyBoo said...

So far, I'm only playing scrabble with Risa, but I'd be happy to play with anyone who wants to. I'm going to have to find Lori on facebook too, I need to find out how good she is. I'm good at losing. :P A couple of my friends here at home are really good at bingoing and know all the two letter words so they can play words right alongside each other for more points.

I've never heard of Children 18:3 or Worth Dying For, the artists in the #3 &4 spots on that Christianity Today poll.

Anonymous said...

Hi everyone-- I'm here in pause to what I should be doing, like going christmas shopping, or vaccuuming, or doing my christmas cards, etc. Busy busy is definitley the buzzwords, risa! ah well, feels good to wander the internets for a few minutes.

The ice storm hit us pretty good this week, but now is just a soggy memory. Some of slipping-on-ice stories have been raucous! I myself found out firsthand just how slippery a gravel driveway can be. Mmm.

One of the things this month I have been doing, is watching the christian video shows, and getting a feel for what is sort of out there. I think it's good to expand my horizons a bit, and hear what it is my kids are listening to. It's diverting, having artists to check out, and new music to swing my feet to! :-) I hope everyone tried at least one new artist's christmas music, this season. It's nice.

Back to the hustle bustle. Take care--

Carrie said...

Carmen,
what a cute book!

I haven't been around here much and I have to apologize. I made a few... bad choices regarding myself and others and it kinda caught up with me. No, I didn't go to jail or anything LOL. I'm just sticking to facebook once in awhile and that's really it. It's nothing personal, I just need to re-evaluate myself and get back on the right path.

Love you all!

risalea said...

I'm sure many of us have been there, done that, bought the t-shirt and own the print shop, dear Carrie, so we can understand. The important thing is to recognize mistakes and learn from them. Sounds like that's where you're at. Hope you have a wonderful and blessed Christmas.

EmilyBoo said...

Carrie, do what you have to do, I'm sure you'll get everything straightened out!

I'm friends with a number of you all on facebook now! I like hanging out there, playing scrabble, giving pieces of flair. Anyone who isn't signed up yet should be!

rosalee said...

What might have been:

"Shrek" just opened on Broadway and the reviews are coming in:

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/thearts/2008526121_zart16shrek.html

http://theater2.nytimes.com/2008/12/15/theater/reviews/15shrek.html

http://weblogs.amny.com/entertainment/stage/blog/2008/12/theater_review_of_shrek.html

http://www.variety.com/review/VE1117939208.html?categoryid=33&cs=1

http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5jkW5fj0fBN1gwr6qABvUtrjnPdRQD952PU5G3

http://www.usatoday.com/life/theater/reviews/2008-12-14-shrek-the-musical_N.htm

Anonymous said...

Seattle Times?

DJ in AL said...

Carrie, I hate to tell you this, but at 48 I'm still making mistakes. You never stop learning. You're gonna be ok I'm sure.

Sending you hope from a very soggy, foggy DJ in AL!

risalea said...

Well said, DJ. And don't be a stranger, Carrie.

BTW, it's extremely foggy here, too, and warming up, before another major dip on Sunday. We're heading to Branson and Sunday, the high is forecast to be 29, and low is 13. And we're going to Silver Dollar City. BRRRRRRR!

Rosalee, thanks for the links to the reviews. Interesting to muse about "what might have been", except the selfish side of me knows several of us would have missed some mighty good concerts if the Shrek thing had all come to pass.

OK, I've been up too late the last few nights. Off to bed!

rosalee said...

Risa -

You might have missed some nice concerts, but the selfish side of ME says he would have been here in New York! LOL

The reviews on the whole are pretty positive. I hope the economy doesn't deter people from going to see it.

Anonymous said...

Carrie-- I recently had an experience, where I think I learned a very valuable lesson. A girl I know is going thru some stuff because of a mistake she made, and where normally I would say what a mess and what a shame etc, she has proven to me that-- everything really is alright!

Sometimes God uses mistakes we make to bring beautiful changes in us, and the people around us too. I bless her for the silver lining she's given me, and the chance to believe in good.

risalea said...

Bully, you don't know how much your words meant to me, because of a situation in my own family right now. I know you meant them to help Carrie, but I just wanted you to know they were a comfort to me.

Rosalee, I wouldn't doubt that you'll still have a chance to see him on the Broadway stage at some point.

We'll be out of pocket for a few days. Y'all have a great weekend.

Carrie said...

Thank you, everyone. It's nothing big... boy trouble and such. It's just draining me emotionally and I'm stuck in a place where I don't know what to do. I'll figure it all out soon.

Anonymous said...

Hi, Chris. I must admit I've never read your blog or visited your fan website. But I've spent this evening on YouTube watching some fabulous AI performances and suddenly remembered you. You were most definitely a favorite of mine and I hope things are going well for you both personally and professionally. I'm not one to write fan letters but felt compelled to tell you something that was always on my mind as I watched you on AI. PLEASE consider doing a cover of Don Dixon's "Praying Mantis", you'd be great! It was a favorite song of mine many years ago. Best wishes for a bright and happy future.

risalea said...

I am back in the condo we are renting in Branson, and let me just say, I have never been colder than I was walking around Silver Dollar City today. Good grief! Magnus, Lindsay's friend from Sweden was with us, and he said you could go skiing there with less clothes on than we had to wear today. LOL. Is it too early to be wishing for spring?

Chris, if I am not mistaken, you did your last Christmas show today. I know you are ready to be home with all your family.

Got to hit the hay and get ready to be up bright and early for last minute Christmas shopping tomorrow. Night all!

risalea said...

EP's mailed out this morning...you got an email if you requested a copy.

Merry Christmas!

Cathy Storms said...

Thanks Risa...

Anonymous said...

Risa--Your words touched me. Thanks for telling me that. Sometimes, we just have to reach out in the spirit, and try to offer a comfort. I always hope I say it right.(because sometimes, I don't! the curse of being candid-natured)

Tomorrow is Christmas Eve! It is HERE! The italian anise cookies are made, the treats are bought, the gears already turning for our party tomorrow. It will be a whirlwind of activity and house cleaning and what-all, but oh, what a wonderful thing it will be!
God bless you all, and bring you nothing but wonder in the moments ahead. :-) ((hugs))

Best wishes, Chris.

Amy's Purple Poodles said...

I just wanted to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas! I hope you all have a great Christmas Eve and Christmas Day with your family and friends.

Carrie,
I'm glad you came back! No one here will judge you for your mistakes and God will offer you forgiveness-like someone said, sometimes mistakes are brought about to teach us something. I have made some big mistakes in my life-the biggest one landing me in my parents' basement-where I now live.

Risa-thanks for all the hard work getting out the EPs!

Cathy-I hope everything is going ok with your radiation treatments. I guess our family will be finding out all about radiation soon. My dad was diagnosed with breast cancer the first week of Nov. and is now going through chemo.

Chris-I hope your Christmas is awe-
some and you get to visit with friends, family, your dogs, and get some rest. Getting to see you in concert in Littleton was one of the highlights of this year-I still think about that concert. It has been one of the shining moments in what has been one of the worst years for our family. Thank you for enriching my life and so many others!

Cathy Storms said...

Merry Christmas Eve to all...

Chris~I wish you and Sarah a very Merry Christmas.

Amy~So sorry to hear about your dad.I will keep him in my prayers. Thanks for asking about my treatment. All is going well. Only 9 radiation treatments left. WhooHoo!!

risalea said...

Just wanted to stop the vacuuming and the dusting for a minute and say Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all the blogger friends.

Chris, just now have had time to put the EP on and you are right, what a difference mixing and mastering makes. Really outstanding final product, and wonderful holiday numbers from someone who self professes, "I don't really like Christmas music, most of the time, to be honest." Well, these are hard not to like. : ) And actually, they don't "scream Christmas" so I think y'all that got the EP will enjoy it even after the holidays have passed.

Amy, prayers going up for your dad.

Happy Holidays to all!

Cathy Storms said...

Wishing all the blog family a very Merry Christmas...

Chris~Hope your enjoying your time with your family and I'm wishing them all a Merry Christmas.

coskunlar vinc said...

do you think you will be going on the winter tour?