I just found my way over here from what I think was the original Melinda Backups forum (melindafan.net)...and I wanted to report my wonderful experience with Melinda yesterday when she was here in Portland. I have loved her since day one when I saw her on Idol (as I'm sure is true of pretty much everyone here!). So when my partner told me she'd be here in town, I was thrilled! Then I realized I had to work that night, and was so disappointed. Obviously, I ended up being able to go, and had a wonderful experience. When I told Melinda that I'm one of her Backups, she grabbed me and gave me a HUGE, real hug (I even got a picture of the hug!), and said, "I didn't know you were coming!! Nobody told me you were coming!" Then she called Kelley over and said, "Kelley!! It's Jamie!!! She's a Backup!" I was so impressed with her and felt genuinely appreciated!! Melinda is truly one of a kind! And Melinda, in case you read these messages,
for being such a sweetheart...and for being an inspiration.
