tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31810036.post4749360137425542566..comments2024-01-19T07:58:25.455-05:00Comments on From My Mind To Your Eyes: AmandaChrisSlighhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05081118898217527399noreply@blogger.comBlogger41125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31810036.post-7854872253561226142008-06-23T06:51:00.000-05:002008-06-23T06:51:00.000-05:00As mostly a lurker here I didn't interact with Ama...As mostly a lurker here I didn't interact with Amanda, but her posts filled me with admiration. There are people three times her age who don't face illness and death with a fraction of her courage and good humor. It's wonderful that she found friends in all of you here- my heart and prayers go out to all who knew and loved her. May she rest in peace, free of pain at home with God.juliehttps://www.blogger.com/profile/11860030152801109505noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31810036.post-55848882637711903642008-06-22T20:37:00.000-05:002008-06-22T20:37:00.000-05:00It's hard to believe it's been a whole week today ...It's hard to believe it's been a whole week today since Amanda passed on. I'm posting under here, so as not to be a downer under Chris's other blogs. It just is so hard and yet, what I feel is but a teeny fraction of the grief her mom and other family members must be feeling. I'm glad I'm working all this week, and have the picnic preparations to keep me busy. And it's really a blessing that Tammy is coming. Somehow, I think it will help with the grieving/healing process.risaleahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/00754939096270758631noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31810036.post-64814492277102841032008-06-20T09:47:00.000-05:002008-06-20T09:47:00.000-05:00I wish you could be there, too.I wish you could be there, too.risaleahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/00754939096270758631noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31810036.post-44231224720381864742008-06-20T08:17:00.000-05:002008-06-20T08:17:00.000-05:00Risa,Thanks for your report on how the services we...Risa,<BR/>Thanks for your report on how the services went. It sounds like it was a lovely sendoff for Amanda. It's also nice to hear that Tammy and her friend and daughter plan to come to the picnic. I must say for seemingly the thousandth time, I really wish I could be there.EmilyBoohttps://www.blogger.com/profile/08255284738814205194noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31810036.post-89896381632805537012008-06-19T20:17:00.000-05:002008-06-19T20:17:00.000-05:00Risa - My link works. It looks like it's cut off, ...Risa - <BR/><BR/>My link works. It looks like it's cut off, but it's not. You have to highlight more than is necessary. Always highlight the next line below it as well (in this case, it's the timestamp), before you copy and paste.rosaleehttps://www.blogger.com/profile/02008139855126202575noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31810036.post-81075571303909407412008-06-19T20:11:00.000-05:002008-06-19T20:11:00.000-05:00Yes, Clarissa, Jeff did use that passage. I wish ...Yes, Clarissa, Jeff did use that passage. I wish I could remember everything he said. The thing I won't forget about Amanda was her fighting spirit. <BR/><BR/>Those balloons going up were a beautiful representation of Amanda leaving the restraints of this earth and her disease and her new eternal life.risaleahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/00754939096270758631noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31810036.post-59895175505840840682008-06-19T20:07:00.000-05:002008-06-19T20:07:00.000-05:00http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb163/risalea/0...http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/<BR/>bb163/risalea/0618081232c.jpg<BR/><BR/>Darn this blogspot and the cutting off of links! Trying again.risaleahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/00754939096270758631noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31810036.post-87599625046755333292008-06-19T20:02:00.000-05:002008-06-19T20:02:00.000-05:00This comment has been removed by the author.risaleahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/00754939096270758631noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31810036.post-72389448452087025862008-06-19T08:06:00.000-05:002008-06-19T08:06:00.000-05:00Here's the link to the photo of the balloons being...Here's the link to the photo of the balloons being released at Amanda's gravesite:<BR/><BR/>http://s240.photobucket.com/albums/ff4/rosaleeNY/Balloons_for_Amanda.jpgrosaleehttps://www.blogger.com/profile/02008139855126202575noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31810036.post-55555239477998882782008-06-19T02:04:00.000-05:002008-06-19T02:04:00.000-05:00Risa,Thanks for the report of the service. I've h...Risa,<BR/>Thanks for the report of the service. I've had a very long and busy day and just now getting to my pc but all day I've been looking forward to coming home to read your post. <BR/>I know you were a great representative for the Fro Patro and am glad we can meet Tammy's friend and daughter at the picnic.<BR/><BR/>II Tim 2:6-8 was perfect for the occasion. Was that what her youth pastor shared today?? This passage always comes to mind when I think of my father-in-law who lost his battle w/cancer in our home a few years ago. On Sunday when reading of Amanda's passing, I also thought it applied so aptly to her. They both were a testimony to me of how we are to finish this race - not with bitterness and fear but with love and grace and dignity.Hischildhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/08010526734500894545noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31810036.post-1703665631568621762008-06-18T23:13:00.000-05:002008-06-18T23:13:00.000-05:00Oh wow, Risa. That entire thing just touches my he...Oh wow, Risa. That entire thing just touches my heart and it was hard not to tear up reading it. I can't even imagine how hard it was being there. It's really exciting that Tammy will be at the picnic. I'll try not to cry there because apparently I cry a lot haha. But that's such a great way to honor Amanda and I know she'll be watching us all during the picnic.Carriehttps://www.blogger.com/profile/16938628110502581436noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31810036.post-32358303528401020542008-06-18T23:08:00.000-05:002008-06-18T23:08:00.000-05:00I wanted to share a little with you about Amanda's...I wanted to share a little with you about Amanda's service today and some good news I got this evening. <BR/><BR/>The service was hard, as you can imagine, but also had moments of laughter as Amanda was remembered. The chapel was full. It was indeed a sea of orange.<BR/><BR/>Amanda's youth minister performed the service. He had a hard time getting through it and broke down several times. He was very close to her. He drew smiles and laughs talking about her stubborn streak and her "stalking" of the American Idols. Chris, your song would have fit in perfectly as Jeff talked about the race Amanda ran, how she never gave up and finished with the greatest prize ever. (Tammy was able to listen to "I'm Ready" tonight--thanks, Rosalee, for posting the link.)<BR/><BR/>2 Timothy 2:6-8<BR/>6As for me, my life has already been poured out as an offering to God. The time of my death is near. 7I have fought a good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. 8And now the prize awaits me—the crown of righteousness that the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on that great day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his glorious return. <BR/><BR/> <BR/>Amanda asked that everyone write a note to her which were released inside orange balloons graveside. I have a pic of that and I've sent it to Rosalee....Rosalee,can you put it on your photobucket and put a link up? I can't do it from here.<BR/>I neglected to mention another E-Trainer, Barbie Valeri, who drove up from Huntsville, AL. It is absolutely amazing to me, how many lives Amanda touched.<BR/><BR/>And now, I have some wonderful news. I went back over to the friend's house where Tammy is staying, and right after I walked in, Tammy asked me when the picnic was. I told her, and she said, "we're coming." She's bringing her good friend Paula, and her daughter, Lindsay, who was Amanda's best friend. She said Amanda wanted to come so badly, she's coming for her. I am absolutely thrilled. You guys who are coming will love her and I know you will make them feel welcome.<BR/><BR/>That's it. Thank you for all y'all's kind messages and for the love and support you gave Amanda through our little group here. Chris is right, he has the best fans ever (the best people ever!)risaleahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/00754939096270758631noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31810036.post-10640144378835652442008-06-18T17:48:00.000-05:002008-06-18T17:48:00.000-05:00Also wearing orange today for Amanda! Her family m...Also wearing orange today for Amanda! Her family must be so proud of their daughter. Think of how many lives she has changed. Risa, you are a great representation for the Fro Patro. I hope as sad as today is you're holding in there.<BR/><BR/>And anon, that is so true.Carriehttps://www.blogger.com/profile/16938628110502581436noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31810036.post-4625731949322306992008-06-18T10:39:00.000-05:002008-06-18T10:39:00.000-05:00I have on my orange shirt as well.Here are a coupl...I have on my orange shirt as well.<BR/>Here are a couple of items on Amanda:<BR/><BR/>From People Magazine 2006:<BR/>http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,1221981,00.html<BR/><BR/>A notice from her college:<BR/>http://www.wbcoll.edu/news/viewnews.php?id=000000001132rosaleehttps://www.blogger.com/profile/02008139855126202575noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31810036.post-69647821141457005922008-06-18T10:36:00.000-05:002008-06-18T10:36:00.000-05:00This comment has been removed by the author.rosaleehttps://www.blogger.com/profile/02008139855126202575noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31810036.post-45696214285378074882008-06-18T08:31:00.000-05:002008-06-18T08:31:00.000-05:00I'm so glad so many people were there. I can only ...I'm so glad so many people were there. I can only imagine how many will be there today.<BR/>I have on my orange shirt...<BR/>Risa, thanks for being there for all of us.Cathy Stormshttps://www.blogger.com/profile/02581096318771432003noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31810036.post-74022217756436159942008-06-18T08:20:00.000-05:002008-06-18T08:20:00.000-05:00I am a nurse and often questioned why young people...I am a nurse and often questioned why young people die. I finally read something that made sense; its not about them, its a lesson/message for people around them. Lke be kinder, or more tolerant, or say and do things now so you won't regret later not saying or doing it. So I guess she did her "job" here on earth, she touched all of us and taught us to reach out to each other.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31810036.post-81566773999332424682008-06-18T08:17:00.000-05:002008-06-18T08:17:00.000-05:00Risa,I'm not surprised by the multitude of people ...Risa,<BR/><BR/>I'm not surprised by the multitude of people who came to honor Amanda, as you and others have said what a testament to a life. If we all could touch others with the same grace and loving spirit wouldn't the world be a better place?<BR/><BR/>Sending you love and strength to get through today.<BR/><BR/>Love you!<BR/><BR/>DJDJ in ALhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/10688855990272617413noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31810036.post-23802964033589658322008-06-18T01:29:00.000-05:002008-06-18T01:29:00.000-05:00Wow Risa!Thanks for posting tonight's events. I'm...Wow Risa!<BR/>Thanks for posting tonight's events. I'm sure you were very tired.<BR/>Your last paragraph especially got to me. Amanda DEFINATELY went "into the ministry" didn't she? God's ways are not always understandable OR to our liking but they ARE always perfect.<BR/><BR/>Wishing SO much that I could join you tomorrow to represent.<BR/><BR/>~clarissaHischildhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/08010526734500894545noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31810036.post-3407080588652773322008-06-17T23:30:00.000-05:002008-06-17T23:30:00.000-05:00Just wanted to let you guys know about some amazin...Just wanted to let you guys know about some amazing women I met tonight. For those of you who visited Amanda's caringbridge journal, Janice Durand from AZ, Mandy Meanes from VA, and Glenna Sawyers (also VA) flew and drove (in Glenna's case, drove 900 miles) to be here for Amanda. They knew her from the Richness and the E-Train. They are just as sweet and wonderful in person as I knew them to be through their posts. <BR/><BR/>Tonight was amazing. Literally hundreds of people came through the chapel for Amanda's visitation. It started at 5...I got there at 6 and waited at least 45 minutes in line. The line never stopped and it was almost 9 before the last person got through.<BR/><BR/>I didn't come prepared because I didn't know until I got here, but Amanda wanted everyone to wear orange shirts (the color for leukemia awareness) and jeans to the funeral. So I ran to Lane Bryant after my meeting today and got the brightest orange shirt I could find (not my best color---only for you, dear Amanda) and a pair of jeans. I imagine it will be nothing but a sea of orange in the morning. <BR/><BR/>Tammy sends her love and appreciation to all who have supported Amanda throughout the past months. She said tonight that about 3 years ago she was talking to her youth minister about going into the ministry. Her dream was fulfilled, but in a different way. She certainly ministered to everyone she met, through her smiles and her joyful attitude. <BR/><BR/>Risarisaleahttps://www.blogger.com/profile/00754939096270758631noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31810036.post-80361181546545225452008-06-17T20:43:00.000-05:002008-06-17T20:43:00.000-05:00Sligh, that is why I love you. I keep reading her...Sligh, that is why I love you. I keep reading here although I seldom post. I love reading your blogs with the updates, music, happenings, thoughts & ideas. You express yourself so well & your Fro Patrol is a terrific group of peeps - witty, sassy, smart & loving. <BR/>I share everyone's mix of sadness and joy at having lost our Amanda for the time being, and just wanted to send some love this way from a fellow Sligh, Chris Rich, & Amanda fan.<BR/>You all are in my thoughts and prayers as well as Amanda's family. And Chris, thanks for such beautiful words. God bless you for the gift he's given you.<BR/>Love,<BR/>kooshesAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31810036.post-37818898047131949472008-06-17T18:11:00.000-05:002008-06-17T18:11:00.000-05:00First Tim Russert's sudden death now Amanda. I've...First Tim Russert's sudden death now Amanda. <BR/><BR/>I've been MIA but I always take the time to drop by to see how the the Fro Patro is. <BR/><BR/>If there is any comfort it is knowing that Amanda and Tim Russert lived their lives to its fullest. <BR/><BR/>Amanda's family are in my thoughts and prayers. <BR/><BR/>-Diane.Anonymoushttps://www.blogger.com/profile/01401187753191002180noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31810036.post-21096345410991572002008-06-17T13:50:00.000-05:002008-06-17T13:50:00.000-05:00Amanda has left us? I'm so sorry. She was a kick i...Amanda has left us? I'm so sorry. She was a kick in the pants here; she jumped right into the party. At the same time, she was a straight shooter about her fight. I am grateful for her candor; it is helping me get my mind around my brother's battle, which has really just begun. Thank you, Amanda, for touching our lives here, being such a bright light, and a kick-butt warrior. I am glad she is at peace now and out of pain.Unknownhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06145475069043933460noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31810036.post-63110327616283671412008-06-17T12:34:00.000-05:002008-06-17T12:34:00.000-05:00Chris,I thought I was done crying until I read thi...Chris,<BR/>I thought I was done crying until I read this. Thank you for posting, it was beautiful and you knew exactly what to say. The top 10 Season 6 Idols have done so much for Amanda and her family, some that you probably don't even realize.<BR/><BR/>I have known of Amanda for quite some time, as my best friend Sam was friends with her. She taught me so much and inspired me to be a better, stronger person. I had the opportunity to meet her once, when she was at St. Jude's. That girl..her smile lit up the room as she talked about Idol and all the friends she made at St. Judes. She asked us about you, Chris. It was a time when she wasn't able to use the computer or phone much, and she knew I read your blog. So she asked me how you were doing and how all the bloggers were doing. I gave her a full report and she was so excited. <BR/><BR/>Thank you for the beautiful post Chris!<BR/><BR/><3 MeganMeganhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/01024074128993087748noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31810036.post-22332365119637387412008-06-17T09:52:00.000-05:002008-06-17T09:52:00.000-05:00Chris, I've been lurking around your blog since la...Chris, I've been lurking around your blog since last fall sometime and today I am coming out of the shadows to say something...THANK YOU! As a worship pastor, I felt more of a connection with you on Idol than most, I suppose. Double that with being on Don Chapman's email list and hearing about you from that angle and I feel like you're an old friend. So I want to say THANK YOU...for not being ashamed of the gospel...for your testimony...for choosing the CCM route (although I would have supported your music either way)...for impacting my teen boys (who love your CD, especially Loaded Gun)...for your music!<BR/>Looking forward to seeing you in Houston on 6/28!<BR/>-sray<BR/>P.S. Would be fun to follow the Adventures of Sligh on Twitter.com!Steve Rayhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/09725730154225063084noreply@blogger.com