I feel deeply for ur loss. I too loss my daughter, Annie at the tender age of 17 to a car accident.  I Know it is hard to go on when u feel so alone.  My family too has moved on and I findit very hard to believe she is gone.  If you would like to talk sometime, u can reach me at katherinesgranny@yahoo.com. I would like that... it is 5 yrs on May 24th . 

Dear Mr Hallmark,

I am witting to you from heaven, and though it might appear.
A rather strange idea, I see everything from here.
I just popped in to visit, your stores to find a card.
A card of love for my mother, as this day for her is hard.

There must be some mistake I thought, Every card you could imagine. Except I could not fine a card, from a child who lives in heaven.

She is still a mother too, no matter were I reside.
I had to leave, she understands, but oh the tears she's cried.

I thought that if I wrote you, that you would come to know,
That though I live in heaven now, I still love my mother so.

She talks with me, she dreams with me, we still share laughter too. Memories are our way of speaking now, could you see what you could do.

My mother she carries me in her heart, her tears she hides from sight. She writes poems to honor me, sometimes far into the night.

She plants flowers in my garden, there my living memory dwells. She writes to other grieving parents, trying to ease their pain as well.

So you see Mr Hallmark, though I no longer live on earth.
I must find a way to remind her of her woundrous worth.
She needs to be honored, and remembered too.
Just as the children, on earth will do.

Thank you Mr Hallmark, I know you'll do your best.
I have done all I can do, to you I'll leave the rest.
Find a way to tell her, how much she means to me.
Until I can do it for myself, when she joins me in eternity

Do not stand at my grave and weep,
I am not there, I do not sleep.

I am the thousand winds that blow,
I am the glints on fallen snow.

I am the sunlight on golden grain,
I am the autumn's gentle rain.

When you awaken in the morning hush,
I am that swift uplifting rush

Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.

Do not stand at my grave and cry,
I am not there, I did not die.

Dear Amanda,

Hope you had a wonderful Birthday with all our Angels, lighting up our skies with your celebrations.

Please stay close to your dear family, leaving them small signs of your love, peace and strength.

Love and Blessings Denise mum to James. http://james-kneale.memory-of.com xxx

I am just visiting here, your beautiful daughter's site. I am very sorry of the loss of her to your family, Bettie, and I am glad that you can remember her with such beautiful memories and photos here. Thank you for sharing your beautiful child's life. Visha

Dear Amanda,

Happy Birthday in Heaven. I have ask my son, Chad, to ask you to share a birthday dance. His birthday is in a couple of weeks. You can celebrate together. I know that you will enjoy his company. He is such a gentleman and always looked out for the girls. He will watch out for you too. It is how he is, my Chad. Enjoy your birthday in Heaven and come see your Mom in her dreams.

 

Thoughts and prayers are with you Amanda and with your loving family,

Rita Edmonds-Norris.

Mother of Chad Norris

www.Chadly-Do-Right.virtual-memorials.com

A birthday up in heaven....
Imagine all the joy it brings
To blow out all your candles
And not wish for anything.

To hear the angels sing to you
A happy birthday song.
To know that everything is right
And nothing ever will be wrong.

To eat as much cake as you want
And not count the calories.
To open up your present...
A big box of memories.

To reach out from above the clouds
Retrieving a balloon.
To see it came from those you love
Knowing they will join you soon.

To realize on your birthday
You won't be counting years.
To smile and laugh and giggle
Never shedding any tears.

To travel down to earth again
As they celebrate your day.
To help them all to understand
You really didn't go away.

To finally have the one you've missed
Come running when you call.
A birthday up in heaven
.Is waiting for us all.

I am so sorry for the loss of your precious Amanda and I, too, know your loss,

loss of my 30 year old daughter, Kanda.  It seems we are both members

of GP and I want to again thank you for emailing the remembrance of Kanda's

anniversary date of 4/13/04.  I also noticed that Amanda was born in May,

same as my daughter and you lost her 10 months after we lost Kanda.

 

It seems life can be so cruel and out of control, to lose a child, grandchild

and sibling is the worst loss of all, we can't help but wonder why.

 

I do very much love this wonderful website, have never seen one like this

one, love the way Amanda's pictures flows gently over the the home page.

 

My dearest hugs to Amanda's family

Dianna

Kanda's Mom4ever and Kanda4ever 30

God's love is all around us and beautiful it is to see,
Like Autumn leaves a'falling and the rippling of the sea.
Like flowers in full bloom with colors glowing bright,
Like fireflies all around us, just lighting up the night.

God's love is in a RAINBOW shining in the sky,
and with the little birds that are ever flying high.
In our little children, precious one and all,
In Winter and the Springtime, the Summer and the Fall.

God's love is on the mountain, where the trees are very green,
and down in the valley where much of life is seen.
In a time of sorrow God's love is surely found,
When all your friends and loved ones are come to gather round.

God's love is not just things that we can see or own,
It's also what's inside us...
to help to take us home...

Please, everybody, don't feel sad. I understand how bad you all feel inside. I know it must seem so awful to you, but there's no reason to be blue. Everything's okay, don't you see? Turn that frown upside down. I'm in Heaven now, singing with the pretty angels.

I'm so very sorry for your loss.  You have a very beautiful daughter. I know my son is watching over her, that's his nature. God Bless you and your family. You are in my heart and prayers. xxoo Susan

 

                   

 

 

                              

 

 

                                           

 

 

                                 

 

 

 

 

 

                              

                       

 

 

I saw Amanda site and was drawn to it she was the same age as my Brittney and was also lost the same year. Maybe it's true only God chooses the best, I know the pain never seems to get any easier. I have questioned all that I believe in. I will never understand the reasons for losing for losing a child. Please know you are not alone. I will pray for you and that maybe someday we will both have peace.
Tammy Bastin www. brittney-shoap.last-memories.com

It's me again from Heaven
With a message from above
Feel my spirit all around you
As I sprinkle you with love

I have watched you as your tears flow
I have heard your silent screams
I know you sleep with visions...
Of me visiting your dreams

I have come and sat beside you
Placed my hands upon your face
Wiped away the many teardrops
I so wish I could erase

I have watched you every day now
Seen such pain within your eyes
I just wish that there were some way
I could help you realize...

I am happy up in Heaven
In this peaceful loving place
Where I will be here waiting
To welcome you with my embrace

You will join me here in Heaven
When your time comes you will see
Leave your Earthly cares behind you
Travel on to where your free

I have heard you ask to go now
But there is more for you to do
I promise I'll be waiting
In your time to come get you

Until that day does happen
Feel the love I send your way
Every single moment...
Of every single day

Hello Bettie,

I am so, so very sorry that I didn't come here and send words of comfort for you on Jan 17th.  It's very difficult to explain, but the birthdays and the day that our children left us, are simply unbearable at times.  Andrew has been in Heaven for two and a half years now, so we're approaching the 3 year mark in July.  I wish you hugs, prayers, love and an everlasting shoulder to cry on if you need a friend, an open ear to listen when you just need to unload, but above all, I wish you inner peace in learning to "live again."  I agree with Garth Brooks..."Learning to live again is killing me."  Just know that I understand.

Be Blessed,

Debi

http://andrew-collins.last-memories.com

Don't think of her as gone away...

Her jouney's just begun.Life holds so many facets...This earth is only one.Just think of her as resting fromthe sorrow and the tears.In a place of warmth and comfort,where there are no days and years.Think how she must be wishing,that we could know today.How nothing but our sadness canreally pass away!

And think of her as living in the

hearts of those she touched.For nothing loved is ever lost...and she was loved so much!

amanda you and sherry are with all the angels in heaven.. send angel kisses and hugs to everyone. the both of you's will be always missed and loved

Little angels in the sky bring your rainbows from the sky plant it deep in our soul so we know your angels light Guide us when we need to know show us all the way to go light beside us every day angels guide us every day many paths we walk and know rainbows dream we all know when it's time to make or break stay with us and guide us all rainbow angels light the sky then the children won't cry many souls have come and gone light the darkness were it mourns shine the light in angels path light beside us now contained spark the light every day then take those souls away Angels guide us through our path keep the sun on out path spark the rainbow every day then the sun won't stay away

amanda you will alway be in all the hearts of everyone you touched.. god bless you... 

amanda you will always be a angel.. watch over the ones who love you.. your smile will last for ever

Hi Bettie,

I just wanted to stop by and visit your beautiful daughter again. You are in my thoughts and prayers and I know how devastating your loss has been.  Amanda went to her Heavenly Home about six months before our Andrew did. Does it seem possible at all, that over two years have passed?  In my heart, it is tougher emotionally as time moves forward, primarily because it has become evident that going back is NOT an option.  Andrew won't be back; he's not away at school or visiting a friend...he died in a car accident.  I know that many people can't bring themselves to say or write the word "died", however,working in hospice as I do, I have found that some people, especially children, have difficulty with understanding the word "passed away." (passed away?  Who did they pass?) And the word expire..Lordy, I just don't like that word at all.  It seems so cold and just doesn't fit when I think of our son.  It really doesn't matter how we, as grieving parents refer to our losses; what does truly make a difference, is the way that we cope.  I'm not sure that I'm ever going to make it to that "place."  Just know that you are in my heart and prayers.  Take care of yourself and just feel those beautiful eyes of Amanda's looking down and you.  Hugs always..Debi

http://andrew-collins.last-memories.com

When you feel a gentle breeze
    Caress you when you sigh
It's a hug sent from Heaven
    From a loved one way up high

If a soft and tender raindrop
    Lands upon your nose
They've added a small kiss
    As fragile as a rose

If a song you hear fills you
    With a feeling of sweet love
It's a hug sent from Heaven
    From someone special up above

If you awaken in the morning
    To a bluebird's chirping song
It's music sent from Heaven
    To cheer you all day long

If tiny little snowflakes
    Land upon your face
It's a hug sent from Heaven
    Trimmed with Angel lace

So keep the joy in your heart
    If you're lonely my dear friend
Hugs that are sent from Heaven
    A broken heart will mend

Betty,

 

Alicia was such an amazing girl.  She had a love for life and lived each day to the fullest.  She would always go out of her way to make someone feel good about who they were.  She was filled with life.....you gave that to her!  You made her the incredible individual that she was and because of that she has touched many lives. She loved you so much Betty, and I know that she is with you everyday for she is an angel among us!   You and your family will always be in my prayers and if you need anything just give me a call.   May God bless you always

May God bless and comfort you on the loss of your beautiful Angel Amanda.

May He grant to you some peace of mind and heart.  May Amanda send you

many signs of her presence.

I went to school with Alicia, and she was an incredibly beautiful girl. She was quiet at school, which is why I think me and her got along because I was the same way. I just found out today about her passing away, no one informed me. I was incredibly shocked to hear the news. She was a great girl...and now she's an amazing angel. Know that she will be in my prayers...I'm getting ready to have my first baby, and I can only imagine what you are feeling. I know how I would feel if something were to happen to mine. But, know that she is in a better place, and she's looking down on all of us who knew and loved her...just as she loves us :O)

bettie, its ladawna, matthews wife. i know its a little late but i just found the site. alicia was such a beautiful person and you did such a wonderful job raising her she was beautiful inside and out. reading the things people wrote and the candles you lit for her made me realize to live everyday as your last. i believe it was alicia who gave me my family. she helped me get to matthews house that day. and because of that i have noah, jade and number 3 on the way and if it is okay with you if its a girl don't know yet i would like to name her after alicia.  i can't imagine what you go through every day bettie but know she is in a better place now and she is watching over you and she wants you to be strong. alicia never was one to like people in pain and i am sure she doesn't want you to cry over her but to remember the good times you shared as mother and daughter.

In a blink of an eye
Not a chance for goodbye
You were gone from this earth...
Now what is life worth?

I have cried all these tears
For countless past years
Forever to mourn
My first child that was born

Live a life that I mask
Many questions I've asked
In a blink of an eye...
Why did you have to die?

No answers will come
Although there are some
That will say it's Gods plan...
That I must understand

I should somehow accept
This traditional concept
That in a blink of an eye...
I should never ask why

It has come down to this
I shall just reminisce
For in that blink of an eye
My whole life passed me by

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say.
But first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness;
Here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I am with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through.
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you.

It's good to have you back again,
you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, They'll be here later on.
I need you here badly, you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man,"

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years.
Because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry: it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
If I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is over.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
But together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too;
That as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain;
Then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented...that my life was worthwhile.
Knowing as I passed along the way I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low;
Just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street
and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go....from that body to be free.
Remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Go now, my child, the time has come.
All tasks today are done.
There are others waiting there for you,
And songs yet to be sung.
Go quietly, go softly,
Leave all pain and fear behind.
Today has left a part of you
In our hearts, our souls, and minds.
I’ll remember you, my dear one,
As I lay down to sleep.
I’ll remember that you made me smile,
Although, it makes me weep.
As you go to face your future,
As you go to touch the sky
Know that God makes all things possible,
Angels never die.
Go now, my child, the time has come.
All worldly tasks are done.
There are others waiting there for you,
And songs yet to be sung.

THE BROKEN CHAIN

We knew little  that morning that God was going to call your name,

In life we loved you dearly, in death we do the same.

It broke our hearts to lose you, you did not go alone,

For part of us went with you, the day God called you home.

You left us peaceful memories, your love is still our guide,

And though we cannot see you, you are always at our side.

Our family chain is broken, and nothing seems the same,

But as God calls us one by one, the chain will link again.

Eternal Rest

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

Betty, Thank you for sharing your Amanda.  She is lovely, just lovely.  Even as I approach seven years in September since my Michelle (also born in 1985) was taken my a drunk driver, I find little peace many days and so struggle to pick up pieces that fit into the person  I am becoming still.  Belle's two older brothers and her dad, Jim, and a large family and friends still miss her so.  I wish you well on your own journey.

Bettie,

Oh, what a lovely young lady your daughter is!  I realize that sharing memories and reliving so much of your life that revolved around Amanda, is so difficult.  You will meet so many wonderful, kind and caring individuals via this web site.  As parents, we know, we feel your pain, yet with each new loss I read...my heart breaks once more.  Yes, Heaven has another beautiful Angel, but those words don't always ease the void or stop the pain.  May God Bless you and keep you in strong arms always. Our son died when he was 18 years old on July 16th, 2005.  He died of blunt force trauma to his head following a car accident that occurred on July 12th, 2005.  I believe that he died the night of the accident, but I thank God for the four days with him, before he was removed from life support and gave his organs to 8 other people so that they could live on.  Please visit Andrew's site @ http://andrew-collins.last-memories.com  Feel free to contact me as the creator of the web site.

 

Take care,

Debi Collins

Saying Good-bye

Sitting here thinking about you, I here you call my name, mom.. mom As I turn to see who's calling me I see no one, only hear your voice. I glance across the room, To see if anyone else hears it too. But no one seems to notice the look on my face. I miss you so much, I keep telling you, But you don't seem to hear me. Still you're calling out my name, only louder, As the tears rolled down my face, I glance around the room, And see you amongst my family, and friends The look upon your face says you're peaceful now. I realized it was time to let you go. Although I will always love and miss you. I turn my head to see if anyone notices you. Then I turn back, and you're gone. I hear you, so very gently say, "I love you", "Good- Bye!" "Bye",

Bettie, thank you for visiting my grand-daughters Lakyn Rodgers memorial. Amanda is such a beautiful & very much loved young lady. I know your pain & I will keep you & all of Amanda's family in my prayers. I only wish I could in some way ease this pain for you, but as you already know there are no words. I can only pray that one day God wil give us "A Peace That Passes All Understanding."  Until we can hold our ANGELS again we will have to know that Amanda & Lakyn doesn't have to imagine Gods beauty anymore. They are being held by him for us!! May God give you the strength to make it through  one day at a time. God Bless You Bettie. Janice (Nana of Lakyn Rodgers on virtuial-memories.com)

Dearest Bettie;

 

Thank you for sharing your daughter with me.  I have to make comment that I didn't know that 11/17 was Amanda's anniversary day of her crossing over.  For reasons I won't get into here, that is significant to me.  In any event, I am so glad we met and you shared your experiences since Amanda went home.  She was a beautiful girl (but you already knew that) and I can tell by her mom that she has a beautiful soul. 

 

I know that yesterday must not have been an easy day for you at all, anniversaries are always heart wretching.  My wish for you is that each day brings you closer to knowing the why's, and that you are able to find some semblence of peace. 

 

Bless your heart.  My prayers are with you and your family.

 

Love, Cherylann

Bettie,

You are always in my thoughts and prayers as you forever think of your beautiful Amanda. I know she is proud of her wonderful site. You are not alone.

Natalie

Hi Amanda,

Just dropping by to wish you a Merry Christmas with all the angels in heaven.

 

Love,

Terrie (Joey's Mom)

Thank you for sharing your b-u-t-ful young lady with all of us!

 Mommy Dont Cry Do not stand at my grave and weep; I am not there. I do not sleep. I am a thousand winds that blow. I am the diamond glints on snow. I am the sunlight on ripened grain. I am the gentle Autumn rain. When you awaken in the morning's hush I am the swift uplifting rush Of quiet birds in circled flight. I am the soft stars that shine at night. Do not stand at my grave and cry; I am not there. I did not die.