so…
we made it to
the doctor and
maddy spent some
time waiting,
staring at the fish
tank in the waiting room
while i filled
out a little paperwork.
(it’s so nice that she can sit up on her own…it’s really freed me up to do things like, uh, paperwork).
soon enough madeline’s
name was called and
we were led
into one of
the exam. rooms.
i got maddy
undressed for her
her measurements.
first her height:
27.25 inches tall!
liz
was 59 inches tall,
so maddy is 46%
of the way
to her mom’s adult height.
then it was on
to the scale…
holy shit.
18 pounds, 10 ounces.
my child has
put on almost 5
pounds since her
last check-up.
no wonder i’m
having such a hard
time carrying her around
(when is this child gonna learn to walk?).
just think how much
my back would
hurt if she hadn’t
thrown up nine
times yesterday.
updated growth chart
to illustrate her progress:
after sorting through
a ton of comments,
it turns out
that no one guessed
her height and
her weight dead on.
a few folks
got her height correct,
but that’s
not enough.
sorry.
the nurse said goodbye
as i worked to
put another
diaper on madeline.
as i tried to
put it on, it seemed
that it was
a little tight.
then i noticed
that i grabbed the
wrong size when
i left the house.
sorry, kid…
sometimes daddy fucks up.
as we waited for
maddy’s dr., i took
a few photos
while maddy talked
to her new
best friend.
the dr. arrived and
we chatted for
a bit.
as always, she
asked how i
was doing, and
it’s immediately obvious
that she really,
truly cares.
we talked about
madeline’s height/weight
stats, then
she looked her over.
“she’s doing fabulously well.”
i really think
i should come
in here at least
once per week
just to hear
this kind of validation.
i thanked the
doctor for everything,
and soon enough
we were out the
door and back home.
we both took a
nap on the couch
and woke up
in time to read
about the small
earthquake that shook some
parts of the so.cal.
(we didn’t feel it).
after a quick
dinner, we did a
little reading before
heading off to bed.
friday.
how can it already
be the 9th?
maddy is feeling
great and i somehow
managed to avoid
her vomitty illness,
so it was back
to daycare/work for us,
but not before
a quick photo shoot.
i dropped her
off and spent
my day working away.
i managed to make
it to 5:30 without
a call from maddy’s daycare.
success.
we drove home,
stopping long enough
to pick up a
bottle for maddy,
before heading out to
hit our favorite
record store for
some new music.
maddy (sorta) sang along
to one of her mom’s
most recent fav. songs.
we arrived, stopping for
a few photos on
the sidewalk,
then went inside
and spent an hour
searching through
the record bins.
during checkout,
maddy got a view
from the other
side of the counter
but did not
extend to me
her employee discount.
on the way out,
we stopped for a
few photos in the
coolest elevator in the
whole world.
maddy fell asleep
in the car seat
on the way home
so i was left
to sing to myself.
she didn’t wake up
as i pulled her
from the car
seat and changed
her diaper.
i spent the evening
listening to some of
and reading this article
by my friend
chrissy over at storked!.
finally went to
bed at 2:00am,
thinking about tomorrow…
woke up early,
gave maddy a bath
and got her
dressed up in the
hippest outfit
i could possibly
put together
(again, can’t believe i’m doing this, let alone writing it)
and took a few
photos under our
apple tree.
so why did she
need to look
her best today?
well…
earlier this week
she got an e-mail
from jayneoni moore
that went something
like this:
Hi Matt,
My name is Jayneoni Moore and I am a fashion commentator in Los Angles my company The Boom Boom Room is a children’s product marketing company and every year we hold the Boom Boom Room Pre Golden Globes Gifting Suite where we have over 60 children’s vendors come out to gift A-List celebrities the new hot products in baby land. I have become a loyal reader of your blog and I would love to have you and Madeline come out to this years suite to stock up on the new and latest kid products. It’s free Swag as they say in Hollywood! I have attached the invitation to this email so you can check out all the cool brands that will be there – if you and Madeline come, be sure to bring a big car (smile)! The event will be held at The Century Hyatt Hotel in Beverly Hills, please feel free to contact me on 555-555-5555 if you have any questions. Let me know if you will be able to make it!With Warm Regards,
Jayneoni
wow.
madeline got invited to
a star-studded hollywood event
and she is not
even 10 months
old yet.
(i am strictly her driver and chaperone).
liz
would be so fucking
thrilled about this.
now…this is not
something that i would
normally be interested in,
but with thoughts of
liz
bouncing around my brain,
i jumped at the
chance to take jayneoni
up on her offer.
i called and she
was so amazingly kind,
even allowing me to
bring a friend
along to help me
carry all the loot.
so…
i talked to
auntie anya,
and she agreed
to meet us at
the event.
we drove to
the hotel and found
jayneoni almost immediately.
she was even nicer
in person.
she asked someone to
show us around,
introduce us to
the vendors and
carry our bags.
maddy, anya and i
went from room
to room, meeting
people and picking up
all sorts of great
baby gear.
maddy, of course,
looked great and posed
for mulitple photos
and i, of course,
was dressed as usual,
so i ruined
her chances to
appear among the
folks pictured here.
not only
was this a fun
event to attend, it
also benefited
the jayneoni moore children’s fund.
the foundation is
dedicated to changing
the lives of children
living in foster care
in los angeles.
and to do our
part, we will be donating
some of the items
we received to a
local women’s shelter.
after the event,
we drove home and
took a long nap.
that evening we
went to pasadena
to a little shopping for
our upcoming trip
to mexico.
i got a photo
of maddy hanging
out in an alley
before heading home
for the night.
madeline fell asleep
on the floor,
playing with her
musical instruments,
and i spent the
rest of the evening
listening to some music
and responding to e-mails.
finally went to
bed around 2:00.
sunday.
11th day of the
new year.
out of bed by
6:00 and cleaning up
the house by 6:01.
figured i should
do something productive
while madeline slept.
she woke up around
8:00, once again
wearing the same
outfit she had on
the day before.
i decided
we should take
advantage of the
beautiful weather and
go on a little
stroller ride.
we went down
the hill
(i always have these thoughts that somehow i’m going to lose my grip on the stroller and she’s going to go flying down the hill…luckily that has only happened in my mind)
and down the
street to the new
coffee shop in
our neighborhood.
joined the yuppified crowd
inside and had
a cup of tea
and some breakfast
while maddy played
with a little girl
seated at the
table next to us.
then we headed
back up the
street and up
the hill to our house.
as i walked up
the hill, i stared
at our house…
liz
fucking loved this place.
fell in love with
it the second
she saw it.
it’s hard to
look at, knowing
that she can’t
enjoy it with us.
we got to
our stairs and
i didn’t want to
go inside.
for some reason
i just couldn’t
do it.
i pulled madeline
from her stroller and
took a few photos
of her playing
in the leaves
and with a
grapefruit from the
tree in our yard.
then i watched as
she tried to
decided which one
to put in her mouth.
we spent about
an hour outside,
just enjoying life.
then i realized
that i better
figure out how to
be okay with
being in the house,
’cause i had a lot
of work to do.
the most pressing
issue was that
i needed to seal the
tile on my counter tops.
this proved to be
a difficult task,
because as madeline has
developed object permanence,
she doesn’t want me
to be out of her sight.
and i can’t have
her breathing in
the chemicals, so
having her in
the same room with
me is impossible.
i put her on the
floor with some
of her favorite toys.
she did well
for awhile, but
then she started crying.
shit.
how are single parents
with young children
supposed to
get anything done?
i rushed to get
the work done,
hanging out with
her while each coat
of sealer dried.
she finally went
down for a nap
about the time
i finished.
perfect timing…
we were supposed to
be on our
way out the
door to see auntie
anya and her mom.
i put a
sleeping maddy in her
car seat and
made our way
to the gardens.
she woke up when
we arrived, and showed
me a little attitude
(i think she’s still mad that i left her alone for so long).
we found auntie anya
and her mom and
went into the garden.
madeline kept up
with the attitude,
refusing to smile for
the first 10 minutes
of our walk.
eventually she came
around, and we stopped
to take some
photos while she
was happy.
i covered her
in leaves,
and let her
chew on a few.
then she found
a stick
and, as predicted,
spent some time
chewing on it.
(i’m not sure liz would approve of this).
we spent a bit
more time playing
with the leaves,
and hanging out
on a bench.
then we wandered
a bit,
checking out the gardens.
it started to
get a little cold,
so we said
goodbye to anya
and her mom
and headed home.
exhausted after a
long weekend,
we both took a
long nap, ate dinner,
and went to bed
before 10:00.
monday.
january 12th already.
woke up at 4:00am
and went back
to bed.
finally woke up
around 6:00,
but maddy slept in
until 8:15.
i found myself
talking to her,
telling her that she
was making me
late for work.
she just smiled and
laughed at me,
as if she understood
everything i said
but didn’t care.
i made it to
work a little
later than i hoped.
by the time i
arrived, i had
already gotten some
good news…
a few months ago
we hung out
with a guy named
lorenzo and a
few weeks later,
we did a photo
shoot with a
freelance photographer.
well…these folks work
for people magazine
and yes, this is
the week the article
is gonna be published.
look for it on
newsstands this friday,
january 16th.
(sorry for teasing everyone for so long…had to keep it quiet until the article was actually published).
at lunch i heard
from a new friend
in the nyc about
about something else,
and then talked to
creepy rachel about
some of the final
things we need in
place to get the
web site for
the liz logelin foundation
up, running, and ready
to accept donations.
by 5:30 i was
at maddy’s daycare,
trying my best
to not throw up…
it seems that
i’ve got what she
had late last week.
we got home
and spent the
rest of the night resting.
we both fell
asleep on the couch
around 8:30.
i moved us into bed
around 1:30am.
i spent the next
half an hour,
staring at madeline
then at the photo
of me and
liz
from our wedding
that sits on
the dresser, right
next to all of
her perfume,
then back to maddy,
then back to
that photo,
thinking about just
how fucked this
whole situation is.
there are lots of
good things
happening, but everything
feels so terribly
incomplete without
her.
on wednesday morning
we’re off to
meet her family
in a place
we used to visit
every year.
there are so
many memories tied
to this place…
memories i’ll carry
with me the rest
of my life.
i’m not sure
how it’s gonna feel
to be back there.
i do know
that having maddy
in the place
that her mom
loved so much
will make things
at least a
little better
for all of us.
353 Comments
You are doing an amazing job raising Maddy. She is so darling and growing perfectly! I have never commented before but felt led to today. Keep up the good work!
Matt, totally kick ass about the Hollywood swag! And CONGRATS! to the article in People Mag. I will most def be picking up a copy. You’re doing an amazing job. I think about you and Madeline often. Liz is proud of you, I’m sure. And yes, I slightly giggled at the site of Maddie chewing on the stick and your comment about Liz. I would totally be saying that from heaven to my husband LOL Many hugs.
can’t wait to get my copy of PEOPLE! i’ve been thinking about you guys, hoping things are moving along well with the foundation. let me know if you guys need any help!
awesome pics, by the way!!! get madeline out of the alley before that car comes:)
People magazine?? We can all say we “knew” you when. Have a wonderful trip, sand and sun sound wonderful, it is cold in Texas.
People Magazine? Well look at you! Have a great holiday – can’t wait to see the pics.
WOW-so very sweet!
And how awesome to get all that “Hollywood Swag”!!
I will def. go and buy that issue of PEOPLE JUST to read the article.
Congratulations!!!
I found this blog yesterday and I just can NOT stop reading.
Your are awesome, your courage, strength, just blows me away!!
And to top it all off-you take the most gorgeous pictures with the most cutest little girl!! She just is too stinkin adorable!
Cant wait to read more!!
I am new to your blog. I discovered your blog yesterday. I was actually looking forward to an update. So thank you! I truly adore the pics of Maddy. I hang on to your words and feel the Love you have for Maddy. Love…is truly special.
Enjoy your evening.
*CHEERS*
I heart People but not as much as Maddy is cute.
I kind of figured that’s what it was when you alluded to being bumped by a death (Travolta’s son) and a birth (Romjin-O’Connell twins). Can’t wait to pick up my copy on Friday!
Safe travels to Mexico!
you and maddy deserve all of the good things that have been coming your way lately. i’ll also be buying a copy of people, and i’m glad that it will give more people a chance to learn about the joy that was liz’s life. loving the pics of maddy!
You are doing such a fabulous job with Madeline, and she is SO CUTE I can’t even stand it! I’m excited to pick up my copy of People this Friday!!
She’s cute – even with an attitude.
Have a good trip and take care.
in regards to all the good stuff coming up – it’s all so fucking cool.
travel safe – and hell – i am trying to think of something helpful to say – but i don’t know what. just keep on doing what you can. and loving that girl of yours. not surprised the dr. was so impressed. you are doing a great job.
18lbs! Look at her go! She is such a healthy happy little girl. Yay for all the free stuff and People, have fun in Mexico!
Oh my Gosh!!!! I am so excited for you guys!!! I don’t think Friday can come fast enough. Matt you are an amazing father and should be so proud of yourself!!!
she is seriously the best-dressed baby around! And wow – five pounds, huh? That’s awesome! Can’t believe how quickly she’s growing!
Maddy got so big, huh? <3 chubby babies!!
the feature in people will be awesome – i may even have to buy one! i’m still wondering what the surprise that chrissy teased is…is there something else??!?!
Matt…People, seriously?? That’s awesome! I’ll be sure to pick it up!! Can’t wait to see it! And hangin’ with the celebs and getting all the swag…what a little star that little girl of yours is!
Wish I lived closer…I would have come over and did your countertops for you. It’s definitely not easy to get done on your own when you have a little one around.
You’re doing an awesome job and great things are happening for you guys. I know that none of it will bring Liz back and none of it helps the fact that she can’t enjoy it with you, but enjoy each day for what it is and take it as you can. She’d be so proud of you for what you’re doing for and with Maddy…I’m sure she’d probaby even forgive you for buying that fucking robot.
Enjoy your trip to Mexico and make some awesome memories with your sweet girl that is the spitting image of Liz. Liz is still with you every day. You’re doing great Matt. Stay strong and keep doing what you’re doing…Maddy couldn’t have asked for a better Daddy.
That is so cool that you are going to be in People, neato! And all that swag is awesome. Liz would be proud
Oprah here we come! Congrats on everything. I hope you have a relaxing time in Mexico. You are doing a great job with Madeline!
Chewing on sticks is one thing Matt….
but leaving your little girl alone in a dark alley?
(I trust you hear the sarcasm and jest in my words).
Congrats on keeping on…I know how hard it can be.
wow! she’s bigger than I expected! way to grow pretty lady!
My son started walking at 10.5 months and was running by 11 months… things get much more difficult when they start doing that lol.
Awesome on all accounts
Not so awesome, I was the closest to HT/WT
You are such an inspiration Matt!! Maddy is so lucky to have you. I have been following your blog for some time now and I had to finally delurk. I will be checking the mailbox on Thursday for my People magazine. Way to go!! Liz would be so proud of everything you do.
Wow…People magazine. When I read the article I will feel like I “know” someone that was in People. Liz would think this was the best.
Great taste in clothes. Can’t wait to see Pictures of Maddy in her swim suit.
awesome photos as usual!
aww Maddy is becoming quite the little celebrity!!
cant wait to see People this Friday!
How could you have reached this Jayneoni person with such an obviously fake phone number?
Madeline is literally the cutest baby girl I’ve ever seen. I’m sure I’m not the first person to say that either, but wow! I love all of these great pictures of her, and the two of you. It’s going to be so cool when she’s older and she has so many fantastic pictures of herself growing up.
I don’t know how you do it. I’ve spent a lot of time (since discovering your site) thinking about how I would feel in your situation, and I just don’t think I could do it. I think I’d shut down. You’re doing remarkably well raising your lovely little girl.
PS-love her clothes. Love, love, love, love. Baby/Kids clothes have come a loooong way in the last couple of decades since I was a kid.
Dang!! I was close on height and weight. Guess I listen to some more Jack Johnson. : )
She’s such a doll. She’s got something special for sure!
Excellent daddy skills. You’re good Logelin, you’re really, really good!
LOL @ The Bastard!
Congrats on all, Matthew! So freakin’ exciting. I feel so lucky to be a part of it.
Have a bueno tiempo en el Mejico! We’ll miss you!
Hi Matt and Madeline! I comment every once in a while sending love and warm wishes. I’m writing today to agree with everyone above, you truly are an inspiration. In the face of tragedy, you still are able to reach out and touch other people that need help. You are a true blessing to the world. And awesome photos too. I love photography also, but you are way better at it lol. And Madeline will love and cherish the photos when she gets older. Thinking of ya’ll every day- Kimberly
Maddy’s hair is getting so long. She is such a big girl. Have a great trip!
Matt you and Maddy rock! As a mother of two I could never do what you do daily! You are doing a wonderful job with Maddy and I hope one day my sons will have the same courage and dignity that you do. Good job, way to go.
wow, those last few thoughts in the post really hit me. i love every single liz story you share and get emotional (as i am sure you do) every time you share another one with us. maddy is a beautiful little girl and i am in awe of her pictures everytime i go stalk your flikr site (heehee).
i can’t wait to see the article in people mag, and, i am sure like lots of other creeps, will be so proud of you (and a wee bit protective perhaps) as i read it.
thoughts always…
People! So so awesome. Can you believe all this is happening? Congratulations, you will (and already are) doing awesome things out there. Liz would be so so proud.
OMG People Magazine!! How kewel is that=) I can’t wait to see the article.
All the pics are so darling of Maddy ~ she’s absolutely adorable.
Hugs to you Matt, Lorena
Matt – there are some really interesting and positive goings on in yours and Madeline’s life right now. She is growing and thriving so well thanks to all of your hard work. What really touched me about this post is how you make such a point to bring together Madeline’s life with her mother’s. That truly reflects the genuine and unrestrained love you have for both of them.
Keep up the excellent work and, if at all possible, enjoy your time away with Madeline and the family.
Glad to hear Maddy’s feeling better. And holy weight gain…clearly you’re doing a wonderful job , keep up the good daddy skills!
ROTFL at the Bastard! Seriously awesome all around. You are blossoming whether you know it or not. Or whatever non gay way of saying a guy is blossoming. And Maddy it goes without saying.
I am totally pissed I didnt guess, because I think I would have won this time. Though you like weird music so no loss
– Loving the SWAG!
As always you rock.
Such good news! It sound like you guys have all your time filled up with such positive fun things and that is sooooo important!!! always think of you guys day to day when I feel over stresses with my 2 yr. old and posts like this remind me to get through it…waiting for each new post has always been exciting! Maddy looks so genuinely happy!! CAN’T WAIT to see the people and am sure we will have hundreds of nice new readers to join the creepy club!!!!!!
Maddy is so delicious. That pic of her w/the grapefruit in front of her mouth is gorgeous. I hear ya on the stomach bug situation – we’re going through the exact same thing this week – and as I sit here and type this I am trying to ignore the fact that I’m really starting to feel nauseous. Anyway, yaaay!!! about the People story – can’t wait to see it!
Wow Matt! People magazine! If there is anyone left who hasn’t fallen in love with Maddy, it’s all over now!
What a great way to reiterate what a wonderful job you have done (and continue to do), and what a great family you have! Can’t wait to see it!
Also, pretty sweet about the event you and Maddy were invited to! You even have celebrity creeps in your corner! Have a great time in Mexico!
Matt-the pictures of Maddy are adorable. Congrats on the People issue-I will be picking one up!
matt-can i buy a print of the tree from you? i love it. You need to start protecting your photos on flickr. you are really good!
and as always, you are doing a great job. really.
Congrats on the continued success of your blog and the People magazine spread! Can’t wait to see it.
I continue to be in such awe of your awesomeness.
Oh yeah! She is getting so big! Good job man! I saw your pics from the event and was wondering if you got to go to the Boom Boom Room swag event… so fun! Also, can’t want to see you in People mag… that’s so awesome!
Matt,
I am so excited to get my weekly People on Friday….cannot wait to see you and Madeline! She is getting so big and just wait, the attitude will increase. My son is 14 months and boy can he throw around some ‘tude! It is hard not to laugh at him…so little yet so big. Sorry that Liz cannot be with you and Madeline on this journey…I feel she is looking over you and smiling that beautiful smile of hers. You are a great father and an amazing person. Thank you again for letting us in on the love story.
Thank you for finally giving us creeps some info!
Amy from Louisville in the KY
WOW!!!!! what an amazing event… and can’t wait to read the People article. That’s amazing! I’m sure Liz is giving you and Maddy one of her big smiles that lit up the room! she’d be soooo fucking proud of you! Keep doing what you’re doing Matt! and enjoy your vacay @ Mexico! Can’t wait to hear all about it and see the pics! XO
Great pictures, Matt. The lift (wow!), the alley, the leaves and Maddie — all wonderful.
The days keep shining, and yet it’s raining in your heart. I wish it were easier for you, and yet there’s hope and love ahead. All kind regards from England, and spirits up.
I’ve never commented on here, though I’ve been reading since the beginning. Madeline is such an adorable baby, and traces of Liz (and you, of course!) are already visible all across her. I know it might be hard sometimes when she is older and resembling her mother more and more, but I hope (and I’m sure it will be) a beautiful reminder.
Congrats on People and the clothes! Can’t wait to see what happens with the foundation.
wow matt, congratulations on people magazine…i can’t wait to read it! i’m sure you’re going to have thousands of new stranger friends by the time the weekend is up. the latest batch of pictures are precious, maddy gets cuter by the day. safe travels!
Wow – 18lb 10oz, that is pretty amazing. I figured it was going to be high, but not that high. Though if you would have posted those nekkid pictures first, I bet people would have gotten closer. Good job Daddy on your healthy, thriving baby!
Lookin forward to Thurs when my People drops in the mailbox. And celebrity swag – I’d love to see what you guys got!
Have as much fun as possible in Mexico, hopefully you’ll be feeling better!
Hi. I haven’t been here in a while…been busy electing a new president.
Then, in the midst of planning to go to the inauguration, a friend of mine was hospitalized with a pulmonary…well, you know.
He made it. Thankfully.
Anyhow, you are doing SUCH a great job Matt! I’ve done the single mom thing, but can’t imagine having done it through the extra grieving.
I’ll look forward to People magazine…there’s something I’d never thought I’d say.
Matt and Madeline….i’ve been reading since mad’s was a few months old. i can’t even remember how i got here! it’s my first time posting, however. just want to say, i think you are a great dad! liz would be so proud….parenting is so hard and to parent under the circumstances which you have found yourself….well, the thought practically brings me to my knees.
i have been known to rarely buy “people” mag…..but just might have to get this weeks’ issue…..just so sick of hearing about brangalina…..
18 lbs!! Hollywood swag party and PEOPLE magazine!! Amazing!! Have a great weekend in Mexico!
Great post. Cannot wait til Wednesday. And Just sayin. I had a 14 yr old babysitter tell me she thought my then 9 month old needed the next size diaper. And I could not use the excuse that it was the one I grabbed. We all *^ck up. You are doing an excellent job….she is so lucky!
Oh, score on the SWAG! Even awesomer that you donated some of it. Wonder if those hollywood-types did that!? (ok, maybe a little harsh). Love the pictures once again. I cant wait to buy the new People Magazine. How exciting!
Rubbing shoulders with the stars and People Magazine. Wow. The same wow goes to Madeline and her rapid growth in the last three months. Liz would be so proud of the amazing job you are doing, not only of raising Madeline, but of supporting others who have been through what you’ve been through.
Your pictures of Madeline outside in the leaves make me sooo jealous. Here in Wisconsin we’re looking at highs in the single digits below zero, and snow every other day. Enjoy your trip, and when all the memories come back tell Madeline about them (she can’t talk back, but that doesn’t mean she won’t listen), and remember she’s there to help you make some new ones.
Wow, that’s fucking awesome. A swag suite!!! Can’t wait to see her modeling all her new stuff. And People magazine? It’s a very unfortunate way to get into a magazine but think how excited Liz would be to see Maddy in print. Take care and have a good time in Mexico, can’t wait to see the sunbathing beauty pictures.
Rosie
Congrats Matt and Maddy
You deserve the attention.
And letting her eat the leaf? Awesome intuitive parenting. Some things are better learned by doing
Well I didn’t guess the height or weight correctly! But it’s great how much she is thriving. Will look out for the People magazine article!
Wow,you are Awesome! Great post Matt. I am RUNNING to the newstand friday. I don’t normally buy it, but I will, cuz I gotta see that girl! Ok, her dad is cool too! Awesome! Can’t wait!
Great Job Matt! Maddy is gorgeous! I can’t wait to get my People mag and see more pics of precious Maddy. I seriously think you do more in a week than I do in a month. Keep up the fabulous job!
Oh, and for what its worht? Leaves DO taste good and Fish really are cool to stare at for ahile. Really, they are!
Well it’s about f-ing time that article comes out!
So, so excited to be a part of everything that is happening…amazing things are going to come of this fucking shitty situation. All for the love of Liz.
Have a great trip Matt, travel safe, enjoy your time away from it all.
::hugs:: to you and Maddy
Finally! Thank you ~ As usual the wait was worth it…I swear she gets more beautiful every day – and if I might say – I’m glad she learned a little somethin’ somethin’ from my young uns about picking stuff up off the ground and putting it in her mouth! It builds the immune system – or something!! HA!
Have a safe trip to Mexico ~ I know you’ll be thinking of those of us stuck here in the MN with minus 200 below temperatures!!
It’s so funny to see Madeline playing in leaves, chewing on sticks and grapefruits, while I am sitting in this -30 degree weather in Wisconsin! You are a great father!
I clicked on the link for Christine’s article and minimized it to read later. The words on the bottom of the screen read “Dear Ann Coulter”. My husband was worried why I might be writing her a letter so I had to explain. Ann has become one on a very, very short list of the people that I cannot stand of one second. She burns my ears . . . No wonder why politics can be so screwed up! Not to mention she was being rude to my boyfriend, Matt Lauer. Enough about that. Can’t wait to read People! Liz is beaming her beautiful smile!
Holy shit! I was right about the swag suite?!? How can that be? I’m never right about anything! (But fuck free shit — you were in the same room with Scott Baio??? You lucky dawg.)
[Sent you an email earlier today with a guess and question about something else -- would be fantastically cool if I came close about that, too! I'm sure you're swamped, but let me know if you can... ]
So sorry everything good is so bittersweet — but better that than no sweet stuff and lots of just plain bitter, I guess. Sounds like even getting bumped was fortuitous, since now the foundation will be ready to accept donations by the time the issue hits the stands? Very cool, and a perfect way to get it off to a roaring start. I can’t believe how much larger your audience, and reach, is going to be in just a few days.
Hope you enjoy Mexico! I love that area, too, though I haven’t been back in a long time and I’m sure it’s changed a lot. Met such wonderful people there — including some guys working out of a hut on the beach in Playa del Carmen who taught me to scuba dive about 20 years ago. My “instructor” was only 11 then (for real), so he’d be about your age now. (Hmmm, wonder when I got so fucking old.) Anyway, que te vayas bien, amigo — hope we get to see Maddy atop the Pyramid of Kukulkan!
Super-excited to read the People article! And I still hope the secret about the new friend in the NYC is that she’s working on a book deal for you!
WOAH! what a post!! HOW EXCITING!!!
Hollywood Baby Parties, People… you are quite the A-List family now eh?
I am just THRILLED for everything, and i will certainly be buying me some People. Maddy was definitely the best dressed baby there! You are such a ROCKIN daddy.
i hope you kick back and relax in el mehico. (oh, and wear sunscreen!!
) we will wait patiently for your return!
give miss maddy some love from us!
love the mn shirt, matt
can’t wait to read all about you in a trashy magazine! liz would be so thrilled!! 
Obviously (as assumed by a complete stranger) you’d dump all your newfound “fame” in a hot second to have the love of your life back…but seriously, people magazine…that’s pretty fucking cool.
The earlier quote from Roads in the London is amazing.
Take care of yourself (and of course your beloved child)
Many good things for you Matt. – That was my New Year’s wish.
I don’t “do” resolutions.
Great post today.
Keep on keepin on.
I’ve been reading since you wrote your first blog post for Glamour but have never commented. I figured it was time to pass along my good wishes in writing as well as congratulate you on the People article. I look forward to reading it. Madeline is beautiful and my wish for both of you as well as your family is good times and great memories.
I’m not a magazine reader…I’m a blog reader. But now I’m gonna have to be a magazine reader…cuz I’m pickin’ up People on Jan 16th! :O)
I want to know how in the world you carry your camera around with baby in tow. I would like to…but I just can’t do it. Too many other pieces of luggage in tow on a regular basis. Not to mention her complete UN-cooperation when I do try to take pics. I do see in some of your photos…like maybe you have a remote to your camera. That would be a nice thing to have. Because I don’t have many pics of me and my little miss together… (fellow single handed juggler) and I definitely need more. She’ll be 2 in a week and a half and I feel like I’ve lost so much already because I haven’t been able to capture us TOGETHER.
I’m so excited about seeing you guys in People! And the pictures of Madeline and the stick were adorable. Then again, all pictures with Madeline in them are adorable.
Love the leaf grimace. Can’t wait til Friday!
Matt- you’re so awesome.
I love this little girl like she’s my own.
I’m one of those incognito readers (I check in daily-yet I’ve never posted- creepy! lol) that keeps u and maddy in her heart daily.
Congrats on PEOPLE- so excited to see my “friends” in print.
If you ever find yourself in Michigan…please let me buy you a tea. My daughter is about Maddy’s age and they would be so cute together!
GET SOME SLEEP ALREADY!
xx, Rach
I’ve never commented before, but just had to say thanks. Thank you for sharing your heart and being so vulnerable for all of us. We lost our son, Hans, to stillbirth on 9/1/07 and my pain was still very fresh back in Spring of ’08. A friend in S. Cal new your photographer and suggested I visit your site. I realized that life wasn’t only unfair for my family, but for others as well and that this terrible thing called death was ripping at families every day. It helped me to look outside of my heart and not only think of my grief. I cried many times reading your site wishing that you had your beautiful wife/mommy in your arms and I had my precious son. I appreciate what you say on the Youtube clip about doing what you need to do that’s right for you after a loss. It’s so very important and it’s so different for each person. My two young sons ask to picnic at their baby brother’s grave sometimes. I can’t believe that this is even part of my life, but it’s what we need to do once in awhile. Thank you for sharing from your heart. Please keep it up. Your daughter is so beautiful and she has an amazing Mommy & Daddy.
Thank goodness you finally updated us!! Whew! I was honestly about to go crazy!
P And wow, you always have so much to tell!
Your life is a whirlwind, ya know? And People magazine no less! I’ll have to scope it out over here…hooray!
Love the pictures of Maddy in her diaper at the doc’s office. She just looks so sweet & innocent and all babyish. Little gummy bear toes and pudginess…what’s not to love??
PS- I’ll be in Vegas the weekend of March 25th and then in Denver after that…any chance you guys going to be there too? Long shot, I know, but hey- you guys travel so much I thought I’d give it a try since I guess it will take you awhile to come to Berlin. :O)
Whoa, she’s getting so big! Keep up the great work Papa!
Congrats on the swag and the People article. I know it’s not the same without Liz here to share in the enjoyment, but try to enjoy just the same.
I love when you post pictures of Ameoba. If it weren’t for a small child’s bladder, I think my husband and I would have stayed there until closing time the day we spent in the Hollywood!
Oh good, you must be awake over there since you’re approving comments. Another late night I see.
I think I need a runner up or “damn, she was close!” prize since I guessed height 26.1 and weight 18.8. Whaddya think? How about an autographed picture of Madeline?
) her signature of course!
Slap me please. I’m so sorry Matt. i just re-read my first post and the date. That will be the first anniversary of Liz’s death….so no, I don’t think you’ll be in Vegas. I’m sorry if what I wrote just stung you….you know I didn’t mean that. I was just hoping to see you guys and was only thinking with half a brain….happens all too often I’m afraid.
Can’t wait to read the article in People magazine! And yeah, I’m not surprised to read the bit about looking at the wedding photo, Maddy, and thinking how fucked up it is that all these wonderful things are happening but Liz can’t enjoy any of it.
What’s even more fucked up is that it’s only happening BECAUSE she died. I hated that fact the most with Charley’s death. Yes, I could be amazed at some of the amazing, unprecedented, unexpected good things that were happening then…but the price was far too high. I would have traded it all in a second to have Charley back.
I still would.
Best of luck to you, my friend. Hang in there. I imagine this upcoming trip will be pretty tough, but I hope you have enough moments of peace, smiles, and good thoughts of LIz to help you get through the awful patches where even Maddy’s smiles and antics can’t quite fix it all.
Hugs,
Candice
Congrats on everything Matt! I can’t wait to see the People Mag. I hope you guys have an awesome trip to Mexico! You are the best daddy I know Job Well Done!!
@Kathryn in Berlin..take me with you Please!!
Madeline is growing into quite the belter Matt.
Will look out for the People piece online.
Have a great time down south.
Hi matt. im from the philippines but i’ve been following your blog for sometime now and i really got to say you’re doing a very great job!
)
we know maddy will grow up a great person coz she has a great dad.
im a single parent myself but i bet its much more difficult for you, esp. that you became one the hard way.
Good luck and be safe always!
Fuck man, I hope it goes well. I am just now getting to the point I can be around Andrea’s stuff and not just dwell, I hope that is “normal”. I am glad things are going well, as I am sitting here hoping my heat doesn’t get shut off, its too cold for that. Nothing feels right without her, Maddy has some kick ass eyes! They stand out like crazy. I should take more photos, but then I would have to coordinate K’s outfits more. Almost a year and a half, and almost all of her stuff is still here, I just returned a bunch of her photos and books to her parents. Fuck man, this sucks! You got yourself a beautiful girl, as with mine, it has to be all Mom! lol, just playing, Take care
Maddy is gorgeous, she’s always so fashionable. I absolutely love her koala shoes. Super cute. She looks like such a happy little girl. And feel better!
Thanks for the fantastic pictures and the great music links. I don’t know how you do all you do *and* manage to get into People and a swanky H’wood swag party! You are doing an amazing job with Maddy- she is so happy and healthy- and growing like a little champion. I know you are so proud of her. And I absolutely know Liz would be blown away by all you’ve done (and continue to do). Have a wonderful trip.
Love the swag stuff!
I am o buying the people magazine. I have treid so many times to explain to my 12 yr.old daughter and husbnad ( mine not her’s)
about you and I can’t bring the right words out about how marvelous you are and what a WONDERFUL job you are doing with Madelyn.
Look forward to People mag this week!
Can’t wait to get my People magazine in the mail! Love the pictures of Maddy under the tree, she is beautiful.
I don’t usually read People Magazine, BUT I WILL THIS WEEK!!!
I haven’t been a long time reader but I just wanted to say that it’s easy to tell from your posts that you love Maddy very much. I have a 2 year old daughter and I can’t imagine being a single parent as you are. You are doing a wonderful job. Just remember that all Maddy really needs is love and quality time with her Dad, which you’re already doing. Reading your blog has really made me step back and do a little more Rose smelling and a lot less rushing.
Thumbs up on your parenting!! You let her explore the leaves and stick. Setting her down on public sidewalks and such….wonderful! So many parents are freaks when it comes to dirt, germs etc…Congrats on all!
Wow Maddy got big! You ARE doing a wonderful job with her. Every time I read a new entry I once again realize how strong you are. Being a single parent is hard, losing the love of your life is hard, and yet you get through each day with your beautiful daughter and always have at least one positive thing to say. I know you say that Liz was the optimist, but you’re doing a great job at it too. People magazine huh? I will actually buy the issue. (normally i just read People while standing at the check out line.) Mexico? wow you guys travel a ton! Lucky Madeline, she’s going to get to see more of the world than many Americans ever get to. One of the things I loved very much about my childhood is how much I got to travel. It’s a true gift you’re giving Madeline. Make sure you keep a list of all the places she’s been for her to look back on. Have a great rest of your week!
hugs from NJ,
erica and Landon
shit matt! madeline weighs a bit more and is a bit longer than ry at 9 months. wowsers! she is way on the charts now. what are you feeding that girl? besides leaves and sticks?
and another holy shit for all the stuff going on. fucking amazing! the event looked awesome and madeline looked stunning, as always. i’m happy that i will finally be able to get that people mag with you two in it. lastly, have a great trip! hope it’s wonderful.
@nate can they really shut your heat off? they have things against doing that in the mn when it’s cold winter. and sorry what you’re going through sucks, but kudos on going through some of her stuff. hope you have a good day.
I think you did a great job with the throw up situation. I do not think I would have been able to hold it together quite as well. I love this blog and love that when maddie is older she will be able to understand the depth that you love her and liz. She will get to know liz and understand how much you think about the decisions you make. This creep in NC is quite proud of everything you are doing and how you keep going.
I love all the photos…and every kid has to eat leaves and sticks at some, Madeline is a lucky girl to have a daddy that lets her do all kinds of neat things.
She is the best dressed baby around…very cool about the People mag…I can’t wait!
Matt as usual you are doing an all round fantastic job
You are doing AWESOME with Maddy – she couldn’t look any happier! Congrats on People – can’t wait to read it!
Hi Matt:
I am new to your blog and I have to say you are doing an amazing job. I have been reading all the updates. I know how you feel losing Liz and it is a tough time in your life. The loss of a loved one is something you never really “get over” but more that you learn to live with it. In my situation Mike and I had been together 11 years when he was taken from me from kidney cancer…he was 32. To be all alone after 11 years really sucked so I am really glad you have Maddy to remember Liz by. God bless you both and I am forever a new fan. People magazine here I come.
Can’t wait to pick up my copy of People! Congrats to both of you on the Hollywood Swag! How exciting!
You are doing a fantastic job Matt!
everytime I check your updates I get more impressed with Madeline. She looks so sweet and so nice to everybody… I think she’ll become a star soon (smiles).
You rock man. People magazine and FREE SWAG. Sucks how you got to this point – but the fact is you’re here, and you’re kicking ass.
Can’t wait to read the People mag w/ you in it…. sorry you got sick, and keep on keeping on. You’re doing AWESOME. Sending hugs from the armpit of America.
sending you warm greeting from the freeeezing cold mn! lurker/reader/fan since the strib article. maddy is so lovely and precious…how lucky she is to have such a fab dad. congrats on the people article…i figured that it would either be that or oprah
can’t wait for my issue to arrive on friday! does this make you totally hollywood now?! thanks for sharing your journey with everyone–it often makes me smile and puts alot of things into perspective when you are dealing with the day-to-day things in life.
People Magazine?! WOW! I cannot wait until my issue comes in the mail Friday
You are an incredible dad to Madeline. I am continually awed at how well you are doing with everything.
Can’t wait to get my copy of People!
I wil be at my news stand Friday~ You, Maddy & the jeans/dress combo rock!
WOW, 5 lbs! That’s great! Go Madeline!!!
People Magazine too! WOW! I can’t wait for that!
Oh and that baby event with all those celebs… good times, I’m sure!
You are so busy! I love that you are always doing something new… I bet Madeline will look back at her last 10 months of life and just think… WOW, I’ve got a great dad that just does SO much for me. More than I could ever imagine.
You’re doing great!
Keep on putting bows in her hair, every day. That way she gets used to it and won’t pull them out in a few months. Then you can start with the tiny pig tails!
I usually change my desktop with each entry you post but I can’t let the one in the blue dress and jeans, reaching for the door curtain, go just yet.
Boom Boom Room. Sweet! I read just before your entry about Anne Heche being there. Go Maddy (and Daddy!).
When you look at your house, know that even though the time Liz spent there was way shorter than intended, I am sure her days there were happy like she wanted.
This week’s PEOPLE may be one of the most sought after issues ever Matt. Maddy will totally trump Brangelina’s twins- I can guarantee that! Think of the people who comment every day and there is a lot! But probably 10 times that amount come to your blog every day. I’ve just been hoping you’ll gain national notoriety. You do so much to help people even if it never got this big. Even if there wasn’t a foundation, or the singlemoms gift fund, or baby swag… the way that you help people who are grieving and who are dealing with their every day struggles is an amazing thing you’ve done Matt. I am very happy for you. You probably don’t want to be the poster child for the widow-er-ed? but what you are and what Maddy is…is the voice for those who have hope and who want great things for their children. That’s what you are.
Thank you for sharing your everydayness with us.
congratulations on all of the wonderful things happening. I am sure it is bitter sweet. You are an awesome father and I LOVE LOVE LOVE all of the amazing pictures you have of your daughter.
haven’t posted a comment before but felt compelled to today…
I’ve been reading your blog since last summer and it is so inspiring to read about your life. You are an incredible dad and Madeline is so blessed to have you!
I can’t wait to pick up a copy of People this Friday!
p.s. your posts are the only thing that get me through my microeconomics class!
I love the badass outfit combined with the girly bow, very cute! I know it’s hard but you keep pushing on and getting through, thanks for sharing it with us. If you’re ever in San Diego, give a shout.
I can’t wait to see the article in People! I have been a long time lurker and love reading your blog. I admire your strength as you get through each day and think Maddy is the most adorable baby! Thanks for sharing your life with us. Oh, and I have to say I am very jealous of how beautiful the weather looks there…since we are in an arctic freeze back in MN!!!
I can’t wait to get People on Friday! I think that you and Maddy more than held your own with the “fancy” people at the baby swag party. I know you would give this all up in the blink of an eye to be a quiet family of three….but how you have chosen to live out loud shows what you are made of. You are changing people’s lives everyday. Just know that when you are not feeling so strong we are all here to hold you up!
Wow… People?! I’ll definitly be picking one up & saving! I just want to say, good for you for following what Liz ‘would have wanted’! I think we all know that she is smiling down on you from heaven. And I would bet she is still in disbelief about your ‘baby free spree’ and your ‘people’ article. In case you havent heard it enough, you are doing a great job, Matt. And if you ever doubt you parenting… well… dont. Have fun in Mexico!
Matt, I just started reading your blog via my sisters blog “One Breath at a time” And the reason for this is because she gave your blog a fabulous award and I must say I love you blog. You openness with Maddie who by the way is freekin adorable!!!!! I am so sorry for you loss. She sounds like she was an awsome woman. You are doing a great job with Maddie so keep up the good work.
A lot of people get scared about letting go of a stroller on a hill. There are what look like leashes that you can attach to the stroller at one end and put around your wrist at the other end so even if your hand lets go of the stroller, it’ll just yank your wrist about a foot.
*Note to self, have husband pick up People Magazine on Friday morning after he gets off of work…* that is SOO awesome to hear!!! And her first Hollywood event, Miss Madeline how exciting is that!
WOW She grew!! My daughter Lilly did that once. Grew really quick after starting solids one time. It amazed me. lol Now she’s only in the 10th percentile for her weight. Which I swear to the doc I feed her. She is constantly having food in her mouth! lol
You are doing such a fabulous job with your daughter! If you have any doubts always come back and read your comments!
I’ll be sure to pick up People mag on Friday before I start work! Wow on the weight! She is getting huge! Everything looks great, and I hope you feel better soon!
Thanks for all the sunshiny pictures of the outdoors. Being in the MN today makes me long for some sunshine and outdoor air that doesn’t freeze my lungs. And you do realize that Maddy is rediculously good right? Must be that steller parenting.
Matt, I am so excited to pick up the issue of People and see the article and Maddy in it. Going to pick up all the Hollywood swag with all the celebs looked like fun too. Oh — Maddy looked wonderful in all of her outfits, well done Mr. Stylista. Hahaha.
You’re a great dad Matt!!
OMG, People? Seriously? I.Cannot.Wait.Til.My.Issue.Arrives.Friday!!!!!!!!!!!!
I haven’t been this excited since…welll…your last post! haha
Wow…did she ever grow! 18+ pounds?!?
Congrats on the People article. We’ll definitely look forward to picking up a copy.
You continue to be such an inspiration.
So bittersweet. I know Liz is so proud of you and Maddie.
The shots in the leaves are gorgeous.
Especially with her breathing in the grapefruit.
Matt, I’m loving all the fashionable outfits you’ve been putting Maddy in lately. Not many guys could do it. The bows are adorable. Maddy will think you’re the coolest dad when you pull out these photos from her baby time when she looks so hip. Can’t wait to get the People issue!
Wow… this is great stuff. She is absolutely gorgeous… but you already know that.
Your blog is moving in so many ways. Thanks for sharing all you do with us… the outside world.
i love the picture of maddy with an attitude. just wait until she’s a teenager!
glad to see you got to spend some time with auntie anya. i was wondering about her. haven’t heard about her recently!
have a safe and wonderful trip to mexico. can’t wait to see the pictures!!
you guys are my favorite! i can’t take how cute she is! can’t wait for people!!
That gorgeous child of yours is growing like a weed! Five pounds since her last checkup! I never get tired of looking at pictures of her. She is so beautiful!
my 10 month old is totally jealous of the Hollywood swag and would love to know where you get some of Maddy’s outfits.
Ann Coulter is a horrific bitch. And Kelly Rutherford from Boom Boom still breast feeds her child at 2 yrs old. Sorry I missed her, Stephanie from Full House, and Chachi.
I’m excited to finally see People! XOX
Funny…I have the same fear of losing our stroller everytime I’m out with the kids. Everytime. Madeline is so beautiful, and so blessed to have you.
So much is happening and so much I could comment on but what I really want to say is Holy Crap! is Maddy ever chubby in those doctor photos! And I mean that in the Healthiest-Happiest-Chubby baby kind of way. She looks so good and strong Matt and look how far you have brought her from her Premie days.
I can’t wait to see the People article.
Maddy looks beautiful. And as for the most recent pics of you, you look good, and your smile says you have joy in your life.
I can’t wait to see your article in People magazine!!!
sweeeeeeeeeet.. again….
People magazine, seriously?? That is awesome. But I’m sorry for the reason behind it. I wish you safe travels and a good trip. Madeline just gets more beautiful each day!
Hi Matt–I’ve read your blog for over a year, but have never commented. I love your pictures of Madeline; she is such a beautiful baby. On Mother’s Day of last year, I bought myself a camera because I was so inspired by your photography. I wrote about you on my blog and now my whole family is keeping up with you and Madeline. I think you are such an inspiration in so many ways and are doing such a great job.
I don’t know if you have the children’s CD by the Barenaked Ladies called Snacktime, but there is a song that is great for all fathers. It’s short, the lyrics are:
There are things that make me mad,
but you are not one of them.
There are things that make me sad,
but you are not one of them.
There are things that make me dad,
you seem to be all of them.
Thanks for letting us into your life and Madeline’s.
I loooove Maddy eating the leaves! So adorable. And the look on her face afterwards that said “Yeah, not so good!”. So cute!!
Dude! I never buy People, but I will this week.
By the way, your kid, who was a preemie and is two weeks younger, out weighs my kid. Mine was just 18lbs 6oz at last weigh in.
I love the outfit Maddy wore to the Dr’s. Just the right touch of attitude.
People! Holy smokes!! That’s so exciting. Can’t wait to buy it hot off the presses!
It was so hard to read the last part of your entry. Can’t imagine what it’s like to actually experience it. It’s heart breaking. As usual, there is nothing to say to lessen the pain. Thinking of you.
Asalamu Alaykom,
I WILL pick up People Magazine AND put it back when I’m done looking at you and Miss Madeline. Sorry. I love ya, but a buck is a buck.
Your life is so full of life. Glad to see so much happiness in counterbalance.
Let me answer some of your questions:
Yes, intrusive thoughts of causing accidental harm to your baby are prevalent even in “normal” parents. I kept worrying I’d drop my first born…until I really thought about how very seldom I accidentally drop things.
Yes, you do all the home repairs during naptime.
And finally: your child is going to learn how to walk once you have built up your biceps. It’s Miss Maddie’s work-out routine.
I am so excited for my People Mag this week!
You and Maddy deserve all the wonderful opportunities that come your way.
Hope you have a great trip to Mexico!
Matt, I saw People. Holy Shit Matt. It’s amazing and I know what you mean about awesome shit happening and how it is kind of laced with something off-putting (and I know are situation are SO EFFING DIFFERENT–but I get it), but Matt, you’re doing it. You’re breathing bud. About getting shit done when you’re a single parent–I mean I gave JD every pot and cooking utensil I owned sans the three I used to cook us dinner. I cooked. He played/threw a lot of expenisve cooking shit in the garbage. You figure shit out along the way. JD sends Maddy a big kiss-a-roo! Have several Coronas in Mexico. Byeee Bud.
Matt, you looked better than all those ‘celebrities!” I have to tell you again, you truly are an awesome father. Don’t ever doubt yourself in that regard. The tremendous love you have for Liz and Maddy is so obvious and so wonderful. I’m so very sorry that you have to do it alone but Maddy will grow up to be a great woman because of you.
I love the picture of Maddy in the alley. Your creativity never ceases to amaze me. Don’t worry about the diaper screw up, it’s not like she’ll remember it ! I am sorry Liz isn’t here, however know that you are honoring her with your life. Can I tell you again: I love that kid!
Hey, I don’t know you but I really like you and I think Liz and I would have been friends. I’m so sorry for your loss. You are a rockstar dad. I love People and now even more. Thank you for sharing your life with us.
Sincerely,
Katie
Wow 18 lbs..she is growing so fast!
)
And People Mag- I will be picking up a copy!
Hope you and Maddy have a great trip
I think my favorite photo this week is the one of her cute little butt cheek hanging out from her diaper
Your daughter is beautiful and you are an inspiration. It’s nice and bittersweet to read about your daily life….she is so freakin’ cute, and your personality comes forth so much in your writing….thank you for doing what you’re doing. I haven’t been reading too long, but when I drive past the bridge on 6th that you and your daughter took a really cool photo on when I’m on my way to and from work, I always think of you guys.
Hey Matt and Madeline, I wanted to comment before the site is inundated due to the People article (which is so awesome, I will definitely be reading it). I have been reading for quite a while and just have to say you are an awesome dad. Madeline is one lucky little girl. I have a son born 2/25/08 so I feel like I know somewhat of what you’re going through, kidwise anyway.
Liz was a beautiful woman and at least from what you’ve written about her, I imagine she is smiling down on you, so proud of what you’ve accomplished and how you’re taking care of that beautiful baby. Keep up the great work! Oh, and I must say, I’m so jealous of Maddy’s sleeping ability…please tell her to send some of it to Quinn!
If you’re ever in the FL, you have some “friends” in the Tampa Bay.
Madeline is seriously the best-dressed baby ever. You definitely have an eye for fashion!
Hell, she dresses better than most adults I know!
Hey Matt, I was at the LAX yesterday and saw the People article. All I can say is WOW! I have been following your story since the Star Trib article and I can only imagine how much Liz is beaming at all the great things you have done and accomplished…the most impressive of course being the most fantastic Daddy to Maddy. Enjoy Mexico…
..ok I travel too much, I was actually in JFK…they had the new People out….at any rate the article was beautiful.
She’s looking darling as always, Matt. Bigger by the day! I will now have to buy People magazine…which issue?
Read the article in People today- you guys look great!
Matt
1.Eat
2.Sleep
3.Besides Baio, you were by far the coolest Dad at The Boom Boom Room
4.People+ M&M= RAD!
5.Try to enjoy Mexico, let the sun hit your face, shut off your phone and email, and listen to the ocean!
Safe travels!
I went to my local super market to get the first PEOPLE out. The stocking lady was late today. Drat. Off to the newstand by my house ( won’t usually go there because of the garbage in the “Little back room”, however I was determined to keep my eyes on the People . Grabbed a copy and told the clerk ( who really didn’t care) that my FRIENDS were in the magazine. Got to my car, spilled my hot McD coffee on my lap, and looked for the article. I was thinking it would be under ” Heroes” because that’s what you are. I finally went directly to the front pages and WOW I saw your picture. What a great spread! All of the pictures are beautiful and I think they really captured your story. Get ready to receive about a million hits a day. Oh, and I was thinking to myself that I so quickly said my “friends” were featured in the magazine and thought about the fact that I have never shaken your hand , or held Maddy. Yet because of your honesty and allowing us a glimpse inside your life,I feel like you are a friend. I am proud to call you friend. Have a great time in Mexico and don’t drink the water. Don’t worry about my burn, I heal quickly.
Stranger lurker, first time poster here. Screamed out loud when my People mag came today and saw Beautiful Madeline on page 4 (haven’t read the article yet) . My husband asked why I was screaming and I said “I know this baby” Well not really, but I feel like I do. Thank you for allowing me to read your touching story everyday and I think of Madeline often.
Checking the mail on Friday is my most favorite part of the day because I know my People magazine will be in there. How cool that there will be something in there about you! That issue will be a keeper.
I’m so glad you’re both doing well. You are a great Dad. And Maddy – she’s growing like a weed! I just love her big blue eyes!
Hey Matt,
this is Silvio (friend of Chrissy’s) we met over brunch when you came to New York. Just read your people story. Just wanted to say Maddy looks adorable and has gotten so big. And you are doing a great job of dressing her stylishly. Hope all is well.
Best,
Silvio
p.s. next time you are in nyc we will have to brunch again.
Wow! Maddy is looking so awesome! It’s funny how I feel like I know you both so well (been reading this blog since May/June) when I’ve never even met you. Matt, you’re doing such an amazing job. I know you hear that here all the time and probably think, “Uh huh. Okay. Thanks.” But seriously, you are.
Holy crap, People Magazine?! ROCK ON! Good for you! I can’t wait to get my copy. Maddy is getting so big and those blue eyes are to die for. Love that pic in the AWESOME elevator. Sorry you got sick, hope you feel better soon. You are the best daddy EVER. Keep on hanging in there and doing what your doing.
matt and maddy, just know how much we appreciate being given a glimpse into your lives. youre an awesome dad and maddy is an awesome baby girl.
wow about the hollywood swag…and so awesome you are donated some. but that is what makes you who you are. and why we love reading about you and maddy.
I absolutely love the polaroid of maddy with all the leaves…it looks like a timeless classic photograph.
I am waiting anxiously for my people to arrive in my mailbox.
amazing work you do, daddy.
People Magazine! You and Maddy are stars!
Congratulations!
Na na na na na naa…I got my PEOPLE today! Great article, Matt!! You and Madeline are stars- How fitting that the cover reads “TRUE COURAGE.”
I’ll be in touch soon, as we’re planning a trip your way. We would love to see you again, and hopefully meet Madeline this time.
The People is out in Minnesota — great article (and pictures) and hopefully it will bring more people to your website and the causes you are supporting.
great read in people, my friend…. just got my copy… see you real soon…
~g.
YAY! Loved the article! I got teary eyed all over again and I had to share the article with all my co-workers!
Awesome article!!!!!
Hi Matt and Maddy -
I just finished reading your article in People, and then promptly spent the last 4 hours reading your entire blog. Let me tell you if everyone in the world had a Dad like you, it would be a wonderful place to live. I’m sincerely sorry for your loss.
I look forward to following your story. I can’t contribute financially, but will offer prayers as well as forward your story to people who have money!
I have been reading your blog for quite some time, I just don’t comment much at all. Maybe once.
Congrats on the People article – mine should be coming in the mail tomorrow so I am very excited! I feel like I know you, even though I don’t!
You are an amazing father. Maddie is absolutely adorable and she looks like she really enjoys life! Good job!
Totally spelled Maddy wrong. I am soooo sorry!
omg, people magazine?!?!? That is so exciting!!! Maddy is beautiful and can’t wait for the world to meet her! Getting a copy first thing in the morning!!!!!!
Hii. This is my first time reading- I recieved People at work this morning and read the article. It made me immediately log onto my phone and view your blog- poorly though because it was on my cell… however, I love your blog. Your amazing. Good job, and keepit all up!
Matt,
I have been reading your blog for a little over 2 months, I love your blog and the way you write about life with Maddie, she is so beautiful. I am so sorry as to the reason for the blog, but you have touched so many lives. I got my issue of People today and I was so thrilled to see you 2 on the inside cover! I have tried to spread the word about you and your blog, and now the world can know you too and be fans too! Congratulations, its a great article!
Got my copy of People today! Beautiful article. Can’t wait to show everyone!
I’m a new reader/fan/wannabe friend. I power read through Maddy’s life from day #1 in about 3 days, neglecting my two fosterbabies while I sat here glued to my computer. Through the sadness, I had to chuckle at your experience leaving the hospital with her. My personal favorite was leaving one here 5 months ago. I’m sure those in the waiting room laughed as a senior citizen overweight woman was wheeled out holding a tiny newborn girl. Thanks for your commitment to foster kids and other kids in similar situations. I’d like to think that all fosterparents are committed to providing the best life possible to their kids, but I know that’s not always the reality.
You’re a wonderful father and I hope you have the opportunity to be a role model to other dads raising their kids alone. Have you decided who you want to play you and Maddy in the movie?
So – I picked up a copy of People today and crazy – there you were – it was weird – here is this person that I feel like I know because I read his blog on a regular basis – in a magazine….. Great to see you in print!!!!
I read about you in People and felt compelled to look up your blog, as I am also a blogger, blogging about something that pulled the rug out from under me and my family. I’m so moved by what you write. Your daughter is beautiful and it sure looks like you are doing an amazing job. So glad to see all the love and support you seem to be surrounded with.
Instead of repeating the whole “you’re doing a great job” thing, I just thought maybe it would be nice to hear how wonderfully sexy this all makes you look to the women of America. We all know how hard it is, even without the extra grief and desperation you must feel at having lost your partner, lover, and best friend. I wanted to say you’ve taken a tragedy and turned it around. There is alot of truth in the saying it takes a village to raise a child. I know the pain you are going through, and though it doesnt seem so now I promise it will get easier.
Be strong Matt, you are an inspiration.
I read your story in People. You and Maddy touched my heart. I wish you the best life has to give.
So, my friends all said I was crazy when I told them I started reading blogs. (Some of them did not even know what a blog was!) I mentioned your story and starting crying as I told them. It was then that I realized how much words can touch someone. Your emotion and pure honesty are reflections on what life is really like, i.e. “This is fucking hard.” No sugar coating. Just the truth. We all need that. We don’t need the pleasantries and auto-response that people spit out without even thinking about what they are saying. You speak from the heart, even when it hurts. I applaud your courage.
I picked up PEOPLE yesterday, and I was beaming as I showed my friends. The spread is great. Maddy is a star!
Hi Matt! I’ve never posted before, but have read your blog from the beginning. I saw you in my People mag. today and said outloud, “Hey! That’s Matt and Maddy!” I felt like I knew you! Kind of funny.
Anyways, I have to say that you are truly an awesome, awesome father. All of the memories you’re creating for Maddy are wonderful. She’ll be able to look back on all of this one day and know how much her Daddy loved her Mommy and how much her Mommy was looking forward to having her in her life. I know through all that you do for Maddy she WILL know her Mommy.
Stay strong and enjoy every day with Maddy. They grow up so quick! Thanks for allowing all of us to be a part of your life, too. You are amazing!
I just read my people magazine! Great job!
I saw you guys in People. Greate article! Keep doing what you’re doing…Maddeline is a lucky little girl!
People magazine? Hollwood swag? Good for you guys! Couldn’t happen to a pair of more deserving, wonderful people. I haven’t commented before, I did send an e-mail, but I have been reading this blog for about a month and you are just so inspiring. Maddy is beautiful and getting so big! You are doing a fabulous job, keep it up! And the new foundation in Liz’s name is awesome. Take care! Sending lots of love and strength your way. <3
I read the article too in people magazine I was never aware of your story. It could happen to any of us. I myself am a runner so I am sure Liz was in GREAT shape. I am so sorry for your loss. Your daughter is so lucky and will be SO very proud of you someday. How AWESOME. keep up the good work. Maddy is absolutely adorable.
wow you rock. i am raising three on my own. went to college and worked when two youngest were little. got an aas in office systemes tech. i am a part time mail carrier, hostess at a resturant and work in a library. my s/o’s didn’t die but we dont’ live together and they do what they can as far as dads go they aren’t bad but not like you. i get very little in monatary support from them next to nothing. i OWN my home in these times that is a big deal, i am puttin in a wood stove i live in Missouri (cold winters). i pay my bills and work hard. my kids are 16, 12, and 5 till march yeah all march birthdays. i almost died a year and a half ago but doing well now after surgery. i have helped others get on thier feet when they were down open my home to others for a night to a year . It helps to know others are out there doing good in hard times too. May god bless you and Keep you!
Well I’ve been reading your blog since this past summer. In spite of the obvious sadness – you always manage to put a smile on my face. As others say over and over (but you can’t hear enough I’m sure) you are doing an amazing job as a father, your daughter will one day know just how lucky she is. And congrats on the People gig – how cool is that?!?
Matt – I just got my People magazine and I literally squeeled when I saw you and Maddy on it. I love the article. But after following your blog for nearly a year, I feel it hardly does you, Liz, and Madeline justice. Thank you for sharing your story. Its a blessing to know that a father like you exists, and that people can still be inspired.
Matt,
I read your article in People and I am so sorry for your loss. Your daughter is beautiful and extremely lucky to have such a wonderful father like yourself. You are an inspiration to me.
I lost my husband Noah 6 days before our daughter Hannah turned 2. He suffered from OCD and depression and took his life. This was 3 months ago. Obviously, our circumstances are completely different. But the grief is very much the same.
I just wanted you to know that I am thinking about you and your daughter and hope that over time your pain and grief soften.
Hugs,
Holly
My Mother is an avid fan of People Magazine, so she went out today and bought the new copy and (as she always does) let me read it first. I came across your article and it touched me to the point of tears. I hurried online just to come to your site and see what a wonderful job you are doing. I too am a single parent.. and I know how hard it can be. You are an amazing father! And Madeline is just adorable!!
Damn it!!
I went during lunch and bought what I thought was the most current People copy and there was NO MATT! Ugh! I’ll have to search around town after work.
I would have to say that I dont know what I would do with out my husband of 18yrs. I read what was in people and I would have to say. Love the one you have and love the one you had. And always remember her, never forget her. Be sure to tell Maddy That her mom loved her with all her heart and she will always be there in yours and her heart.
Take Care Matt, your doing a great job and always be there for Maddy no matter what.
Hi Matt, I haven’t posted in awhile, but am still reading!! I have to say that when I got my People today I actually let out a little scream when I opened it and saw the pic of you and Maddy in there. I had read that it was going to be in there, but forgot as I was opening it. How great- I hope many wonderful things come your way. Congrats on the Liz Logelin Foundation- I’m quite sure that all the love for Liz will be continuously poured out through that outlet. Blessings to you both~
I have never commented before and I didn’t know your blog was here either until I read your article in People about 20 minutes ago. Tears started welling up in my eyes. You are a strong man to be doing this. Not many men would take on the responsibility of fatherhood, especially after losing their wife. I am a single mom of three, my youngest is three months old today. My husband left me with the two oldest. Last year we got pregnant (uh-oh) with our baby boy, Jadon. He is not claiming him because he doesn’t want another one. So I am in school full-time, raising three kids (4, 3, and 3 months) and hopefully in the next couple weeks starting teaching at the local school. It is a full-time job…very stressful, yet very fulfilling at the same time. You are doing an awesome job. Maddy is beautiful and looks so happy. You are camera-crazy like me. I love cameras!!! They capture so many moments that would be forgotten with just memory. Maddy will be grateful to you for doing this and for remembering her mommy in all of it. Keep up the GREAT work. It will all get better and become so much easier in time.
What is on the cover of the issue? The one I bought today had no Matt in it! Can anyone share?
Matt-
I read the article in People today and I was completely heartbroken when I read about what happened to your wife, Liz. I am a nurse and I am aware of this type of problems that can happen. I adore what you are doing for your daughter and yourself. I am sure that Liz is so proud of the father you are becoming to your daughter. Parenting is a learning experience. There is no right or wrong way about it.
Hi Matt, I read the article today in People Mag. I am so sorry to hear about your wife. You have a georgeous daughter. It seems like you are doing a great job with her. You are an amazing person. I really enjoy reading the blog. Congratulations on the foundation. God Bless.
Hi Matt & Maddy,
I just read your article in People magazine and of COURSE had to come check out the blog! You are doing a fantastic job with that beautiful daughter of yours. I’m terribly sorry for your loss, yet I’m positive she is looking down from Heaven right now smiling at her 2 favorite people in the world.
I’m a 37 yr. old mom of 2 teenage sons from Wisconsin who has been married twice, cheated on twice, and divorced twice. Guess I’m just meant to share my bed with my dog, huh? I’d like to add one more thing, you are an extremely handsome gentleman, so it’s surprising that women aren’t beating each other to get to your front door!
I wish you and your beautiful little Maddy only the best!
The People article is great. Just read it and that’s how I came to find your blog. You are an amazing father! I’m an elementary school Principal and I can tell that Maddy is going to grow up feeling so loved thanks to your wonderful care. Keep up the great work, and don’t forget to take care of yourself too!
It’s been a while since i’ve posted, but like so many today, turned People to the article on you and Maddie. I’ve been a stranger/lurker/friend since the beginning and posted a few times in the spring. I check in frequently to be updated on the two of you. It’s amazing the different, unexpected directions life can take you on. Maddy is absolutely beautiful and you are clearly doing a wonderful job with her. I laughed about the Hollywood swag, because I thought – that would be freakin’ sweet. It’s been interesting to see your posts evolve since April as well. As always, I wish the two of you the best from the Minnesota.
HI Matt…. I just read about you in the People Magazine, and just think you’re amazing. I give you props for being such an amazing and awesome father, you put Maddy as your priority at all times and that is GREAT!!! Keep up the good work and I know when Maddy grows up she will really appreciate it and will feel so loved by her dad because everything you do is from the bottom of your heart. YOU ARE DOING A GREAT JOB AND KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK…AND DON’T FORGET TO TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF!!!!!
Awww. She’s really beautiful. You’re doing an amazing job…and you probably hear that a lot here, but some things you can never hear enough.
She is the cutest little girl!!! I just read the People Magezine and read the article in it and came to your website. This is such a good idea and Maddie will appreciate this as she gets older. You are an amazing dad and I give you all the credit in the world. Lis is watching down on you and Maddie both. I can not wait to read your next post. God Bless
Patrick Swayze is on the cover. Matt and Maddy’s picture is on the inside cover I think the date on it is Jan 29.
Matt, I have been following your blog since almost the beginning and it was so weird seeing you guys in people magazine today. I’m not involved enough between one of the creeps but I would love to be considered a stranger/friend ( I am not going to even attempt the strikethrough ) The article is great. Be prepared you are going to have a ton more readers. The pictures of course were wonderful.
Hope you guys are having fun in The Mexico.
I get a kick out of the fact that you feel entirely comfortable setting that babe down in the middle of an alley….or say, a graffiti covered elevator. She looks smokin’ no matter where you put her! And oh, shoot, my People Magazine quota of one every two months has been filled, but I am going to break the rules this once and go for extra this month. (seriously. I have an ongoing People Magazine diet going on)
i’ve been reading your blogs since the strib article. so when i saw the people article today it felt like seeing a friend in print. it’s amazing to see how much maddy has grown since then. have fun in mexico.
Darn, I am sick and can’t get out to get my People magazine! I can’t wait to read the article!
Your amazing. Your daughter is beautiful and thriving. Through heartbreak, and heartache you have touched more people than you could ever know. Sharing your story is brave, daring and powerful.
I have been a doula and childbirth teacher for years, I am glad to hear that a doula stepped forward in the early days when you really needed it.
Auntie Anya hits home as my DD is named Anya, she was born Preemie the end of March, so many of the “dates” that are of signifigance are in our lives. I have cried, smiled, laughed and wondered at your photos and your words. May music help carry you through all the days to come.
What a tease you are! When you said you were going to be in People, I just naturally assumed it was time for the Sexiest Man Alive issue…darn.
It’s a nice write-up, Matt — congratulations! But while I’m thrilled for what the exposure will mean for the foundation and your writing, I just don’t think it holds a candle to your own words. The most touching part for me was actually the reference to your blog title, because it brought back my memory of when you changed it from “she’s finally here.” I so remember wincing back then thinking how utterly devastating that small step — and every other — must have been. You and Maddy have come so far from there to here — sucks that you had to travel this road, but it still boggles my mind how much optimism and strength you’ve done it with (even though it might not feel that way).
So, are new blowjob offers pouring in? I suspect so. It’s fascinating to see the comments the feature is prompting. I’m so glad you’re out of town for the initial blast — will probably make it much easier to handle. Then again, I’m thinking there’s really squat you can’t handle gracefully.
Hope you and your family are enjoying Mexico and Maddy time as much as possible. Can’t wait to see your photos — bet they’re exquisite.
i read your article in people today. your daughter is absolutely beautiful! and i think you are doing an amazing job. this is the first entry i have read, but i plan on going back and reading more. kudos to you for being such an amazing person.
great article in people Matt!! Madeline is getting so big.. She is absolutely perfect!
I am a People magazine subscriber and just received my copy this Thursday. I read your story and couldn’t wait to log on and find this blog.
I think it’s wondeful that you have an outlet like this to help you thru your grief and gives you a community of online friends that helps support you emotionally. Looks like you are doing a wonderful job parenting this beautiful baby girl.
God Bless you!
I’m a long time reader, first time commenter. I saw the article in People last night-so cool! The pictures are great-Maddy is the most beautiful baby and you’re doing an awesome job with her. I’ve spent a lot of time on here reading/laughing/crying; this is a wonderful thing you’re doing. God bless!
I am truly inspired
Your daughter is absolutely adorable – God bless you both!
I just read the story of you in People Magazine and am literally moved to tears ..I am also a widow, and now remarried my daughter is 10, I can not imagine how difficult it must be to find the energy every day …you are incredible and I am inspired to be a better mother by you.
I got my People magazine a couple days ago and read your article last night. What great pictures! You’re such an awesome Daddy – Maddie’s so lucky to have you.
Hi, my name is Ashley, I’m 13 and live in Minnesota. My mom works with Mike Hedstrom, (he is also our neighbor at our cabin) Liz’s uncle. I think what you have done is unbelievable, and from what I read you are an amazing father to your daughter. I hope you can make it thorough these tough times!! You’re doing great!
I have been keeping up with you and Madeline ever since I read the arcticle about in the Star Tribune. Your story brought me to tears and now as I read I sometimes find myself laughing and crying. You are truly an inspiration after such a difficult time. I went out and bought People Magazine today, such a wonderful article. I wish you and Maddy well. God bless you both.
I’ve been reading your blog since May (I think). I almost felt like I was reading about a friend in People magazine. What a nice story and what a nice thing for Maddy to be able to have when she’s older. My best to you both.
I totally dig Maddy’s t-shirt! You are doing a great job!
Read about you in People yesterday. Your story has really touched my heart, and no doubt millions of others. I will be catching up on old posts and following your story from now on. I hope you don’t mind, but I’ll be adding you to my blog roll.
Hey, Matt:
I just stumbled upon your blog last week, and I saw the article in People yesterday. It looked really good.
Keep writing,
Taylor from Ohio
Hi Matt-
Great news on Maddy’s growth! You’re doing a fantastic job!!
We picked up People today. What an awesome article! I loved all the pictures and even though I knew the story and have seen a lot of those pictures, it was still amazing to read it again in print. You’re an amazing person, Father and friend. Keep doing what you’re doing. You’re always in our thoughts and prayers.
Matt, LOVE LOVE LOVE the article in People mag! You and Maddy got some serious pages in that bad boy!!!
More readers on your blog now my dear!!!
BTW, that pic above of sweet cheeks looking at the fishies is priceless! Awwwwww!
Great job as usual Matt. Hugs for little girl!
Picked up the People magazine. Great piece! But no mention of the robot! It was great to meet you at Social when you were in the New York City, Matt. I continue to read and be amazed at how well you are doing with Madeline. She just keeps getting more beautiful. And she’s obviously a happy little girl. Good job! And what’s so cool is that you’re just a really NICE guy. Hubby and I are both glad we met you and Maddy.
The People article was great. I loved that they used so many of your pictures. I have been reading your blog since June and don’t comment very often but I felt compelled to today. Maddy is such a beautiful girl and she is soooo lucky to have you for a dad. This blog will be a great way for her to learn about her mom and also learn what an amazing man her father is.
Congrats on all the swag and have an awesome time in Mexico with Maddy. I swear that girl has traveled more then me and she is only 10 months old!
Whooo Hoo Madeline’s in People ain’t she something! and her Pop’s not bad either. Long time reader…
Rooth
Found your site via People Magazine. Spent 17 hours yesterday catching up on all the blog. Enjoyed the ride, through tears and laughter. You are doing an amazing job.
matt what a beautiful baby and a truely wonderful father , thank god for a father like you. there needs to be more like you .best of luck with your baby liz is smiling down on you without a dought.
I read about you in People magazine. Kudos to you man. You are blessed to have a bit of liz in maddie. enjoy it. In all the pain, is joy. yeah, I know it sucks but it is all worth it. Stay strong…she will need you for that and I am sure that liz is wanting that from you!
Read about your story in People, and after reading through much of the blog.. you seem to be doing an amazing job. Its rough being a new parent in general, I can not even begin to imagine how you cope but thank goodness you do. Madeline seems to be thriving and that is a huge testament to you as a dad. You are building a bond with her that no one else will ever rival, enjoy every moment.
Hi Matt..
I also seen your article in People and looked your blog up online. I think Madeline is a very lucky little girl to have you for her Daddy. I know its tough, but I think you are doing a wonderful job of raising your daughter. God bless you Matt and Maddy, you are both much loved !!!
I read your artcle in People and looked your blog up.. You are doing such a wonderful job! Your daughter is absolutley adorable and the happiest little girl. No doubt that she is definitely daddy’s little angel. I am so sorry for your loss your wife is beautiful and she continues to live on in Maddy. I am now going to be a dedicated reader of your blog and look forward to future entries. Take care and you are doing an awesome job!!
Congratulation on the People spread!! I have been a “lurker” on your site for a bit now, and absolutely enjoy reading about you and your precious daughter. Keep up the good work!!
Is there a different place to write you? Well I am a mom of 5 12,6,4,2,and newborn. I was so stressed out complaing and ranting and BITCHING aboiut everything, then I sit down for my 5 seconds of silence, and I read about YOU and MADDDY! I am sorry … I am so heartbroken for you and I am sitting here trying to understand why I get so frustrated, then I read about you two and I see that I am so blessed and I bitch most of the time, YOU are this amazing guy who has lost so much yetyou have a blog about your beautiful baby and I can barely finish the laundry! If I could hug you I would. You have a beautiful family, I am shocked about what happenend to your wife! I never heard of that before! Do youhave EMAIL? YOu are in my thoughts and prayers NOW and every day from now on! I would like to help with the fundraising – I have alot of connections can you let me know if I can help you guys ! I have connections in the entertainment industry!
In fact TLC should do a show on you! EVERYONE needs to see what an amazing man you are with your little ANGEL!
I own a site for Diane Lane the actress, and It would be an honor to post some links to help you guys out if we can!
ALSO I love that sling!! the brown carrier u hgave where can I get one!
for my sister who has a scary pregnancy risk! You scared me man!
Hi Matt! I found your site because of the People magazine article. I was in the waiting room getting ready to get a massage and I started reading the article. By the time they called me in for my massage, I was in tears. Your story really struck me, as I can see it has done so many others. You are doing a fantastic job raising your daughter, and I am sure you are making your wife proud.
Just read the article in People Magazine and have spent the morning looking through your blog……kudos to you, Liz is smiling down upon you. You are doing an awesome job raising your daughter who looks happy and healthy. Thank you for sharing such a person and painful story you are an inspiration. Keep on swearing, plugging along day by day and being the best father you can be. This too shall pass and the sun will shine again some day.
Matt….
I have been reading your blog for the last few days. Funny that I was feeling sorry for myself b/c today is mt 29th b-day and I am still single blah blah. Not that I didn’t already know this but I have way too much to be thankful for to sit around feeling sorry for myself. You are, or seem to be an amazing daddy and man. Thank you for sharing your story! ~Kirsten
Matt- I normally don’t read PEOPLE magazine, but I snuck a peek at my wife’s issue today (I always do). I read your story and I cried like I have never cried before by myself. My wife was in the shower and came out wondering what the heck was wrong. I showed her your story (she cried as well). I have a daughter that is a few weeks younger than yours. Your story put a lot of things into perspective for me. You are a great man and Maddy is really cute! She’s blessed to have a daddy like you. You are amazing!
I read your story in People Magazine. I will keep you in my prayers. You truly are an inspiration to people who probably feel like just giving up. God bless.
Beautiful as always Matt!
You and Liz and Madeline are always in my prayers!
Congratulations on the People article. I just picked it up today and was so excited to see you even made the table of contents with a picture. Of course, I never knew Liz, but I have to think she would have been so proud to know her baby was in People Magazine. You have been an inspiration to me over these past 8 months since I found your blog – your story and your blog have truly illustrated the best of humankind.
Hello Matt!
I have been reading your blog ever since I saw your piece in People magazine. I think Maddy is so adorable and you are doing a wonderful job raising her. I also looked around your Flickr photos and saw Liz. She was beautiful and Maddy looks just like her. I am so envious of the love that you two had. You can see it vividly in every picture. I am very curious as to what job you have. You two traveled abroad and I have always wanted to do that. It’s also amazing how you spend so much time with Maddy. I know friends who love their kids just as much as you do, but barely have enough time to spend with them. It’s great all around Matt and you should be very proud. Liz would definitely be. I am looking forward to seeing Maddy turn one. I will definitely remember because my mother’s birthday is the same as Maddy’s. Well, I hope you have a wonderful weekend and holiday Matt and Maddy! I will try my best to visit your blog everyday. God Bless!………..Love Krista.
Finally got my copy of People (who knew like no stores around here have current ones?? we’re in boston!). Amazing spread, congrats! Loved seeing your pics that I recognized from the blog.
I’ve loved getting to know you and Maddie since Storked!, and look forward to reading more of your adventures! Liz is certainly watching and smiling.
Hey M&M! I picked up the magazine and the article was great. You really are an inspiration! Keep up the great work!
I picked up my copy of People today. It’s a great article. You are amazing, Matt!
Matt- Congrats on the people magaine issue!! I’ve been a lurker since about april or may and this is my first post
I think you are an amazing father and person. You really are a great dad! Maddy is very lucky to have you!
is there a more recent one that you would be in? can anyone help? 
thank you in advance.
Just a quick question on the Peoplemagazine, I’ve looked in the Jan. 12th and 19th one and I dont see you in it
I just found you via people magazine I have to say I am so inspired by your story. I work in child abuse and have seen people drop their kids in foster care in circumstances like yours. Good for you for making some good from so much bad.
Maddie is gorgeous.
Saw you in People magazine…God bless you, your beautiful daughter and your family. Keeping you in my prayers!
Matt,
I can’t believe Maddy gained 5 pounds! That is awesome! That is so cool you guys were invited to the Boom Boom Room. I hope you got lots of great stuff. I love the leaf video and pictures. Maddy looks beautiful as always. The People article was great. I loved it! You are going to have lots of new fans now! Hope you and Miss M are having fun in Mexico!
Matt – I am sure you have heard this 1,000,000 times, but wanted you to hear it once more – you are an amazing father and doing a great job with Maddy – Liz is so unbelievably proud of you. Every Mom wonders/worries what would happen to her husband/child if she were gone and you can rest assured that you are surpassing her every hope and expectation. Keep on keeping on and thank you for sharing your beautiful daughter with the world.
Congrats on the article Matt! The world needs to know about you, Maddy and Liz, and what a wonderful dad you are! Now they can!
I love how seriously she is studying the fishes.
matt, i just wanted to say i saw your story in people magazine and i was touched by it. i’ve read a lot of your posts and your doing such a great job!
also maddy is sooo cute! and i love all the pictures of her. i especially love the picture of maddy in your flickr account the one where she is “conducting an imaginary orchestra” ahh so cute
Hey Matt, Just trying to catch up with you two. Boy oh boy is she cute. I have my two girls that you’ve meet and they are the cutest but “your” Maddie comes in at #3. Hey let my wife Andrea V know when you’ll be back we would love to get together again and see G Brocolli and Candy and the whole gang. Hope to hear from you soon. Take care, keep on keeping on, your an insiration to fathers everywhere. Love you man.
Ahhh…. I submitted your name and blog to People too!! So glad that I will be able to read the story, well, that is, when I can find a copy. I’ve been to four stores already and NO ONE has it on the shelves!! Guess you and Maddy have already sold them out!
Good job with the vomiting situation. Don’t think I would have
been able to handle that. And, no, you’re not a bad father. If I had kids, I’d probably put them to bed in their outfits for the next day too.
Lastly, I’m looking for a way to volunteer. I would love to help you out, so please, let me know if there is a way to help the Liz Logelin Foundation in NC. In horrible, tragic times is when good arises. Much love to you and Maddy.
Hey Matt,
I’ve been following your blog for several months now, but I’ve never commented. I read your article in People tonight and wanted to say congrats! You are doing a wonderful job with Madeline and I am keeping you both in my prayers.
Robyn
Hi – I read your story in People magazine and I just thought you and your daughter were so sweet together. I have a friend that lost her husband in a car accident on the day she gave birth to her fourth child. It happened about a year ago. You seem to be doing very well and are very strong.
I just read your article in People magazine. Madeline looks like she is happy and thriving. She is lucky to you have you as her father. Keep up the good work!
I just read your article in People and thought I would check out your blog. I think your great, your doing exactley what your supposed to be doing~lovin that sweet baby! However, as a mother of 2, Im sure your wife would have kicked your ass for putting Maddy on the floor of that elevator! LOL:)!!
I am a regular reader, but don’t comment much. Just wanted to tell you that some strollers, I know the joggers for sure, come with a strap attached to the back that you can secure to your wrist… just incase you ever accidentally let go or the stroller got away from you! A great feature!
Matt, I just found out about your blog via a friend who reads people mag. My son who is 35 just lost his 34 yr. old wife to a similiar situation. Eight days after the birth of their 3rd. child his wife died very suddenly of SCAD. He has two other small children. He has been looking for someone to talk to that is in the same boat so to speak. You sound like a wonderful, caring young man, I will pass on your blog site to him. Take care.
Dear Matt, I read your article in People magazine and was very touched. Your daughter is absolutely beautiful, congratulations. As I sat and read this article, however, I somehow found myself feeling very guilty. Two years ago I took myself to the hospital with what I thougth was a pulled muscle believe it or not, but I ended up having multiple pulmonary embolisms. I had the warning pain for two days and I’m still alive to talk about it. The doctors looked at me like I had 2 heads because I was still alive. Reading your article made me feel terribly guilty to still be here when a beautiful, new mom was taken from you and her daughter. I just don’t understand these things. Even though she was taken too soon, Liz was extremely lucky to have a wonderful, loving husband like you. I would love nothing more than to have a man love me like that so, I’m sure you made her very happy while she was here. God bless you and your beautiful girl. I will keep you in my thoughts. I am very sorry for your loss.
Hi Matt – I’m a regular reader of yours and want to commend you on everything you’re doing with your precious baby Madeline. She’s an absolute ANGEL! I also just read your article in People Magazine – I feel like I know you! Keep up the good work and remember, Liz is always with you and she’d be very proud.
I just read your story in people it is very sad I think you are doing a great job with her. I know you had big plans to come back home from the hospital with your wife and child Im sure her passing away was not ever thought of. My heart brakes for you and your child. I really dont know what else to say to you may god bless you and your baby she is beautiful.
I read your story in People last night and while it had me in tears, it was also so heartwarming. Madeline is so lucky to have you and I wish you all good things in life! How you are handling yourself and raising Madeline is such a great tribute to your late wife! She would be so proud!
Dear Matt, I learned about your story in People Magazine today and my heart just breaks for you. I am hopeful that blogging continues to help you deal with the grief. This blog is obviously touching the lives of others in very positive ways. What a wonderful legacy to leave to your Beautiful girl and no wonder Liz chose you to be Maddy’s Amazing Daddy! Lots of Love from Anna’s Mommy in PDX, Oregon.
Dear Matt,
Just think about how you have grown since Maddy’s birth. The things that you have taught Maddy will be with her for a life time. One day I know that she will look back on this with great love. I have two children ages 3 and 6 and am a pretty much a single mom. I know that some days are so stressful that you just want your bottle (with vino in it) and your blanket. I just try and remember that I want to try and raise wonderful and caring kids. Maddy is one lucky angel.
matt,
awesome article in the people. how sneaky of you to keep that from your readers, you’ve must known for a while since there aren’t recent photos? well, you’re forgiven… can you tell us how many daily hits since the article? do you keep stats of the crazies for whom the disclaimers are really meant for? i bet both numbers are growing exponentially.
i’ve been reading your blog since may. you are an inspiration to all of us – you managed to make lemonade from all of those fucking lemons, while being the best dad ever.
tomorrow will be an awesome day. great new era is beginning so it is only fitting that liz’s foundation is also taking off. 2009 will be an awesome year.
best to you and maddy – can’t wait to see some pictures from mexico.
Dear Matt, Thank you for sharing your story. You are a very strong and courageous man. I know Liz is watching over you and Maddy and is very proud of the job you are doing raising her. You and Maddy are so lucky to have each other. She is a precious little girl. Enjoy your life with her. She’s a gift. God bless you, Maddy and Liz.
Yay for People Magazine! I would have never found your site had I not read your article in my subscription. I cried as well and then obviously had to come out and read some more, and cry some more. I am such a sob. You are doing a great job with everything from what I can see. Be proud and stand strong.
Hi Matt and Maddy. I just got wind of your story through the article in People magazine. I can’t even imagine the emotion highs and lows you continue to go through. I’ve never lost someone close to me, but my heart certainly goes out to those who have. When children are involved my heart aches. Maddy is very blessed to have such a loving father to bring her up and tell her about the mother that brought her into this world. Through your tragedy came this little life; a little piece of you and Liz; a miracle. She’s a beautiful baby girl and you have to see Liz in her every second of every day. I appreciate your honesty and your willingness to put all your thoughts and feelings into a blog. While sad and exciting in the same right this blog is your therapy, your outlet and maybe the key to your recovery. Thanks for sharing your love for Liz and Maddy. I think you’re amazing.
Hello Matt and Maddy, I read your article in People. It was amazing and of course made me cry! I am so sorry for you loss of your wife. I am really happy that Maddy will be there to get you thru this. It made me remember Dec of 2007, My baby girl Ryleigh was only 4 weeks old and I was sent into the ER with severe pain in my back. I almost put off going to the ER. Luckily I did because I almost died from a kidney blockage my urologist said that if I had waited I would be dead. And all I could think of was, what would happen to my 4 week old daughter and my husband. What would happen to them? All of these questions haunting me. So to hear your story really shakes me to the bone! Luckily I am much better now and my daughter is wonderful!! she will be 15 months old on Feb 6th. I cherish every magical moment with her. Hugs!
You are doing so awesome as a single dad.. my mom raised 4 kids on her own so we know how hard it is.. Keep your Chin up Time heals..
Hi Matt! I absolutely love the leaf pictures…your sweet girl is getting so big, I can’t believe the it, but “the chart don’t lie”. Keep up the fabulous job of being #1 Daddy.
I hope that TODAY, is a day of positive change for you and the rest of the country! Did you sneak off to Washington D.C with the other 97 million people? The way you two go, I wouldn’t be surprised!!
Take care!
Love the jean/dress combination. I have tried it on my little babe today. You sure have a fashion trendsetter on your hands. No if only I could find those adorable shoe shocks we would be all good. Congrats on getting the foundation up and running and on the article as well.
Hi my name is desiree i read your story in people… so sad. I can never say i feel your pain or fully understand. i am lucky not to be a single mother my son has a great dad. We do have a few things in common and from your story i wish i would have known more. My son Tristen was born 9-11-08 he was 6 days late and only weighed 4lbs 15oz, i also lost all my fluid but didn’t know untill the ultrasound the morning of my c section at 9 that morning i had 9% and when the dr busted my water there was nothing so after they tried to induce me and no progress my son was taken at 11:24pm, he was perfectly healthy thank you God. It’s kinda funny i was reading how Maddie went to the dr for her check up and in sep and weighed 13lbs 13oz on 1-12-09 we went for our four month and Tristen weighed 13lbs 12oz, he caught up fast. i just wanted to say you have a beautifull little girl and you have done a great job being a mommy and a daddy and sometimes Tristen wears the same outfit two days in a roll too lol. it’s people like you and your story that make life so much more worth while you sure have made you spot in heaven right next to your beautifull wife, but remember you have a whole life with her through your daughters eyes.
I have just read the article about you and Maddy in People. My heart breaks for you, yet I so admire you. I wonder if your wife had Factor V leiden? Both of my daughters have this blood disorder which causes blood clots in high hormonal situations. My older daughter almost died from blood clots after giving birth. My younger daughter was checked and had it also. She took injections daily during her pregnancies to keep her blood thinned out. This condition was discovered at Duke in the mid 90′s. It is senseless that young women continue to die during childbirth when a simple blood test could prevent this. All doctors should have patients take this test upon finding that they are pregnant. It could save many lives! You are a wonderful father-Maddy is blessed to have you as her dad. Liz would be so proud of both of you.
Matt & Maddy, I just read your story in People Magazine… Unable to finish the article I rushed to my computer to find your site. Reading your entries completely broke me down. I realized that the pain I felt is not even an ounce of what you’ve had to endure. Matt, I praise you for taking on fatherhood with no hesitation and keeping such an incredible record of your days with Maddy. I believe in my heart that Liz is in her glory watching you two in your day to day. I’m completely addicted and have shared your story with my friends via facebook. They too marvel at Maddy’s big blue eyes and your awesome shots (btw, what camera do you have!!). As a mommy myself, I really took to your story. Thank you for sharing your world with us. I hope single daddy’s around the world see how raising a child is not just a mommy’s role and that through rain, stands a rainbow. God bless you Maddy, Matt & Liz.
My coworker saw your article in People Magazine and showed it to me. I’d told her that I read your website, way back when you started it. They did a great job on the article and I bet you’re getting lots of new visitors now!
Stay cool, we’re still readin’!
Hello,my first time here and on any bolg spot for that matter. I just read the article about you and your beautiful little girl in People and had to take a look. I was amazed at how emotional I was reading about somone I knew nothing about. I honestly don’t even know what to say after reading. All I know is that it took my breath away both good and bad.
You are doing a wonderful job as a mother and a father to your very special little girl.
I can’t wait to see more of your beautiful pictures. And laugh at your funny blogs
Matt – I read the people article on Sat while I was in Costco. Tears streaming down my face, sorry for all you are going through but at the same time, so proud for all you’ve done since Liz passed, not only for you & Madeline, but also to help others. Wishing you peace and lots of snuggles tonight from maddy.
keri
Matt, I read your article in People magazine. Wow, you are doing a wonderful job with your daughter. She will so enjoy all the pictures you take of her when she gets older. I am in awe of your strength and perserverance and wish you and your daughter the best. I am the caretaker for our family, I have a 3 year old little girl, while my husband is in Medical School all day and studies all night. I know how stressfull and joyful it can be. I really had to learn how to except help from others. It was hard at first because I thought I can just do it faster or “better” myself but as the days went on and grew longer I was completely exausted. You are definantly an inspiration to the world, as well as, your daughter. Thank you for sharing your story!
Jen Myers
Does her shirt say “Your favorite band sucks”? Cause that is just awesome.
WOW! I read the article in People magazine today and immediately felt compelled to log on to the website. I am so glad I did. I cannot stop crying because my heart aches for your loss of Liz and the beautiful love you share with her and on the other hand I am humbled by the truly amazing father you are. Maddy is such a lucky little girl and your wife is always with you both. Keep on moving forward. You are amazing and I will keep you and Maddy in my thoughts and prayers!
Just read your story in People. My neighbor, your age, also lost his wife during birth of their first child a couple years ago and was left to raise his son alone. So tragic.
Moms of the world are singing your praises (my husband could never dress our daughters as well as you dress yours!!!…you should see the mismatched outfits). I know your wife is looking down on you and is so proud. It breaks my heart though that she is not able to see her little girl grow up.
Hi Matt and Maddy! I am a NICU RN and have only seen such a tragedy twice in my 20 yrs. in practice. My heart goes out to you. I can see the bond and love in each of your eyes. Maddy is truly blessed to have you as her dad! During the most difficult times in my life, the greatest gift I was ever given is prayer- you both will be in mine.
Hi Matt and Maddy I am new to the site I just read your article in People magazine. I admire you for being so strong for your little girl, It is so hard to lose the one you love. Im sure Maddy will appreciate the things you do for her and how you stayed strong for her even though you may have thought you couldnt. Thank you for sharing your story with People magazine and I now bookmarked your site and will check back for updates! p.s. Maddy is adorable.
Hi,
I normally don’t write to people on the internet, but I wanted to tell you I read your story in People magazine this week and it tore at my heart strings. I also had a friend pass away after giving birth to her beautiful son many years ago and was heartwrenching, but the pain is now just a slight throb. I think the job you are doing raising you beautiful daughter is absolutely remarkable. I dont knnow how you have time to take at the pictures and then write everything going on. You should feel wonderful about what you are doing for you, your daughter and take special pride in knowing that your lovely wife is watching all of it with a great smile on her face and tears in her eyes, missing both of you. You are a very special man to be doing what you are and I take my hat off to you!!
Hi Matt & Maddie! I came across your article in People and I was so impressed by your honesty, courage and love for that beautiful little girl~You’re doing an amazing job pops! Keep up the good work….little girls need their daddy’s……more daddy’s should be like you. You should be very proud of yourself. Looks like Maddie is growing up happy & healthy! I love the pictures!
I enjoy reading your story, Im a single mom, its nice to hear a dads side of the story too.
Take care~greetings from Minneapolis, MN
Hello, My name is Tammy I read the article in People magazine on Tuesday. It brought tears to my eyes. I just added you to my favorites so that I can keep a check on you two. Maddy is so cute. You are doing a wonderful job raising her. I know that you get a lot of advice. My only advice to you is enjoy her while she is still small. My girls are 16 and 10. I will keep you in my thoughts.
Matt you are a wonderful father and Maddy is beautiful!
Matt,
Your daughter is so sweet. She looks exactly like her mommy. I hope when you look at her, you see Liz and know that one day, all of you will be reunited. You will have so much to tell Liz! After reading your blog, I know she will be extremely proud of you!
(I saw your article in People and I am a fellow blogger so I will be stalking your blog, as well…tee hee)
I seriously do not know another dad like you…you’re amazing!
Just wanted to say I loved the article in People.
Take care
Matt, It’s Sarah. I am Heather’s friend. I was around during the time Susan died. I am so sorry for your Liz. I have been following your story and talking to your mom. I am planning on running the 5 K next fall. You are an amazing dad. I am a mother of 3 and a daycare provider. Ask me anything. Sarah
Matt, I just read your article in People magazine and I couldn’t believe what I read. A friend of mine gave it to me and told me to read it! It sent chills down my back, because my wife died also after child birth. We are also young, I was 28 yrs. old and she was only 27. She also gave birth to our beautiful daughter and just like you I was caught in the moment of having a beautiful daughter and then she passes out and dies in front of me. I was shocked for weeks and then it hit me as my family drove out my drive way 3 weeks after everything happened and I was left alone in my house with this new baby! I didn’t have a clue on what to do, but as I tell folks now you take each day at a time and you enjoy what God has given you at the moment. My daughter is 3 years old now and she is so beautiful! Every day I see her mother’s smile and spirit, which makes me happy! I was so a lone after it happened and often I wondered if there was another man out there that has experienced what I have been going through and I guess there is! So thanks for the comfort of not feeling a lone. Your daughter is beautiful and I can tell she is a blessing to you! The ironic thing about everything is, I thought I would never be fixing hair every morning and picking out dresses all the time! LOL! Now I do it so quick I don’t even think about it. The questions I get are so funny, when folks ask me, Oh, Jonathan! Who fixed her hair or who dressed your daughter? She looks so cute! I’m always thinking, yeh, I have a lady that I hire that lives in my basement and she does it all for me as I sit back and watch my football or morning news! HA! Actually, I just smile and say thank you! Hopefully, I’ll be able to keep in touch with you. Have a great day, jon
I read about your story in People magazine and had to come and have a peek. Your daughter is beautiful! And you are obviously doing a great job raising her. Keep up the good work.
just wanted to say i read your story in people. it saddened me how you lost your wife but through it all i think its amazing how strong youve become and it looks like your a GREAT father.
I too read about you and your lovely family in People. Tragic and heartbreaking and I FEEL your loss in your words and pictures. You are a wonderful, giving man and father also loving husband.
When we mutter about our lives not being what we want it is truly an eye opener to see how in a flash a loved one leaves us. Alone. You are an angel on Earth and while I know there are single mothers everywhere, it is different for a man and you are doing an amazing job with your precious one.
Treasure every moment.
Siuzanne
By the way.. checked out Liz’s fav song and was shocked that it was Falling Slowly. I feel in love with that song from the movie ONCE. Set in Dublin ( my absolute fav place in the entire world) it is such a passionate and lovely tune! Liz had some great taste!
I forgot to say in my last post that
1. your dress sense for Maddy is phenomenal
2. she is stunningly cute!
3. you do men proud I am sure
4 keep on blogging.. your daughter will feel the love later
Cheers
Siuzanne
I read your article in the people magazine and immediately went to the computer to check out your website!!!!! What a Beautiful little Angel Maddy is! I am heart broken for you, this is a cruel unexpected nightmare but I must say you are handling it like a CHAMP!!!! It sounds to me like Maddy could not ask for a better daddy than you!!! You are so Precious together!! I have a 17 year old son and a 14 year old daughter and I could only wish that if anything would have happened to me my husband would have done such a great job as you are doing!!! I will follow your blogs as long as you have them posted and tell all my girlfriends about it . We will pray for guidance for you in this adventure the two of you are sharing!! Stay strong and positive and know that Liz is looking down on you Every step of the way!!! I’m sure she must be so VERY VERY PROUD of the Daddy you have become and little Lady you are developing in Maddy!!! You are going to be just fine, God will Bless you in many ways , even though you may not see it now please keep your eyes open for there will be many signs along the way!!! Please keep the pictures coming they are so Cute and show the funny side of you!!! Try and find some time for you,so you don’t loose yourself along the way , you are still so young you deserve to be happy!!! HAVE A BLESSED DAY!!!!!!!!!
Hi Matt. I just read your article in the People magazine and have spent the last 3 hours reading your blog (to which my employer would not be very happy about). You truly are an amazing person. Your little Maddy is a doll and though I obviously didn’t know Liz, she sounds like an amazing person that touched a lot of people’s lives, just as you are doing. I will continue to be a faithful reader.
just thinking about ya’ll…and seeing some comments…you are in people mag??????
anyway, can’t wait to hear how you spent the inauguration!
How strange my day was today. I am a nurse and mother of 3. I was at a physician’s office conducting a normal business day for me and picked up People magazine and happened to read the article about you. I then took my youngest (16 month old) to the doctor for a check up. Came home decided to check out your blog and…saw the pictures of precious Maddy at the doctor’s office. I said “wow, those fish look familiar and so does that quilt hanging in the background”. Then I realized we take our children to the same doctor’s office. What a trip, anyway just wanted to share the strange coincidence with you and let you know that I believe you are truly inspiring!!!! (PS- saw Dr. Bursch today as our favorite Dr. Henry was busy)
oh shit now i have to go get people mag., dang it matt, keeping us in the dark. you inspires us. i threw that in there, because i like to think that with such crap that happened you still LIVE. And that deserves all the “Extras” you get in life.
Hi Matt! Wow, I read your story in People Magazine and I have to say your story is truly incredible. I’ve been reading your blog whenever I can & I think Maddy is absolutely adoreable!! =) I think you are so inspiring, for dealing with a birth & a death practically in a day. I’m sure it’s hard to be a single father – juggling your job & your daughter. But, I think you’re doing an amazing job! All the best! <3
WOW! I’m a 18 year old mother of a 7 month old daughter, & as i sat at my desk in my office, reading the article in “People Magazine”, i wonder how you do it!? First let me say that you are doing an AMAZING job! & your daughter is BEAUTIFUL! I think documenting everything is awesome! and you are truly an inspiration. Can’t wait to keep reading!
Hi Matt! My name is Becky. I read your article in People and I am so inspired by you. The article was great! I am so so sorry for your loss, your wife is beautiful and Madeline…wow! What a doll baby! The first thing I did was jump on your blog and I closed my eyes and kept hitting next until I got to the beginning because I wanted to start from the beginning and read it all. I love this blog and you are doing such an amazing job with Madeline! I was just reading your post about your trip to Banff and those pictures look so much like where I live. In WA state. Have you been to WA before? If not, I think you should make a trip here. Seriously! I would LOVE to show you around and see this beautiful state. Plus, I really think you would love the city of Seattle. I can send you some pictures too that I have taken of WA. Let me know if you would ever consider making a trip up here. Thank you for letting us into your lives! Keep up the amazing job and just know you have a HUGE support system if you ever need anything.
We need an update! You are the man in demand!
Once again, I am mesmerized by your story, your strength and your love for your wife and child. She is so proud of you in Heaven!
Matt, you’re doing a great job. Single parenthood is HARD! I know, I’ve got three kiddos. I do have a spouse, but he works out of town and is only home on weekends. Even on weekends he’s working. Even though you’re missing Liz terribly, you seem to be living life, or at least, allowing Maddy to experience life. The loss of a loved one is quite challenging (this I know too) and will hit you ever so often when you least expect it, even 10, 20, 30 years from now. But it’s OK. You can make it.
I found you from the People article. A few things:
1) Thank you for your liberal use of the swears…it’s fucking awesome.
2) I found your poetic style jarring at first, until I realized how powerful the single word–name–”liz” can be. Though I can’t say I understand exactly what you’ve been (are going) through, I can say that, for a moment, I felt it.
Thanks for sharing. I hope that each day brings a new sense of healing.
Hi Matt and Maddy,
I just found this site today and I spent hours already reading through it. You have a beautiful daughter and you’re doing a good job! I’ll be bookmarking this website. Stay strong and hugs for that beautiful little girl of yours!
Just saw a story on you on WCCO news. I bet it’s nice to see your hometown is still pullin’ for ya. Great pics of the vacation, we will be there in a few weeks. YOU are really doing a great job!
Hey Matt. I have been reading your blog from the beginning and adore it. My son is 17 months and I can really feel all your ups and downs on the parenthood front. So excited about your People article. I was actually reading my People the week before and thinking that I was surprised they hadn’t picked up a story on you yet. Then what do you know . . . next week there you are. Keep up the good work!
Hi Matt!
Your pictures are beautiful. I am so touched by your blog as well as your story in People. The other day when you twittered about being on the beach with your precious daughter early in the morning I could actually picture you there.
God bless you both!
You are awesome, she is so stylish—you will have to share your tips!
Wow, I can’t believe how many comments are on here now! It was sort of surreal seeing the article about you guys in People, since I’ve almost come to feel like I “know” you and Madeline after reading here since she was about a week old.
I know we’re all looking forward to reading a new post soon when you have a chance, and I hope that the People article has helped your foundation grow to enormous proportions!
By the way, why is there a 1. next to everyone’s comments?
I love the way you blog, it is so fun. i just found your site after reading People mag. I love the way you let maddie explore things, like leaves and sticks. i wish i wasn’t so uptight and let my daughter do that when she was little. If you ever need someone to visit in Idaho I’m here.
My mom had a link to your Liz’ website on her blog. I had not heard you story before. I cannot believe how much I was touched by your Liz’ smile, Madeline’s beautiful eyes, and your wonderful personality and the views from your camera lens. You are a wonderful dad and Madeline is going to love you so much for keeping memories alive of her mother and memories alive of her childhood. I look forward to following your blog as Madeline grows and you grow as a dad. Bless you!
hi matt, i just read the article today while at my physical therapist office. come to think of it, the aches and pains that i am going through right now is nothing compared to what you have been through….but your story is such an encouragement to me….i laugh and cried reading your lates calendar, everything has a reason…..i like maddy’s pics at the doctor’s office…i currently work at a pediatrician’s office – she’s so cute while in the waiting room…. you are amazing – i have a 5 y/o boy and a 2 y/o girl and it’s hard to take care of kids esp when my hubby is away – so you are going a great great job….goodluck to all your everyday quality times with maddy,…
This is the first time I have visited this site. I saw the People magazine article last night and after reading this one post, (the first one I read) I am totally, irrevocably convinced that Maddy is one very lucky , very loved little girl.
I just read the article about you and Maddy in People magazine and had to come check out the blog! Your little Maddy is so adorable (and very well dressed!).
Sending you and Maddy the very best!!
What an incredible journey you have begun with your daughter, Madeline, Your story, as published in “People” magazine, had me in tears, as I sat in a downtown Toronto cafe with my fiance and 11 month old son. Your courage and strength would make your lovely Liz so proud…and beautiful Maddy is really going to appreciate this account of your adventures together….your pictures captivate the essence of your love….I will continue to follow your blog, as I am truly touched by your story.
HI Matt,
Just wanted to say that you are an inspiration. we have a 10 month old daughter too! You remind me a lot of my husbad who is a photographer and loves to be outside with his daughter. Thank you for sharing your story!! If you would like to see some photos of our family, http://www.thehellings.blogspot.com
xoxo E
MATT & MADELINE
Hi i am from AUSTRALIA (the land down under)! I stumbled across your blog today well actually yesterday (its 3am here) and have not been able to stop reading (ive read it for 10 hours straight)! You are one truly AMAZING & INSPIRATIONAL guys! Madeline you are so lucky to have a daddy who loves you as much as he does! Your blog is AMAZING and Madeline is going to have great memories in the future. I can not wait until your next post! You are doing an AMAZING job & Madeline is absolutly GORGEOUS! Not Sure what else to say but Hi from DOWNUNDER! (will probably be a frequent commentatorLOL)
Matt~
I’ve been reading your blog for a while and finally am getting around to comment! I caught the article in People while at the nail salon and felt like I really knew you as I was showing the article to everyone around me. Keep up the good work. Liz is SO proud of you and Madeline is the luckiest little girl to have a father like you. ~Megan
Dear Matt,
I read your story, as so many others have, in People magazine. I decided to look up the site and started from the beginning blogs. Your story has truly touched my soul. I wish you and Madeline all the Love and Happiness this world has to offer.
Peace,
Moon
Wow! what a story i was so touched my baby is now 4 weeks old and it makes me think of Liz and how she would so proud of you and what a great father you are am sure it is hard sometimes but remember she will be small for just a short time enjoy every moment and know liz is smiling at you from heaven
Matt,
I recently read your article in People magazine. I cannot express the amount of sorrow that I feel for you. Every time I read a blog that you have written, I cry like a baby. I am amazed at the strength and love that you have during this extremely hard period in your life. Whether you realize it or not, you are an inspiration to everyone who reads your blog. Madeline is very lucky to have you as her father. When she is older, she will realize just how lucky she is. Having someone so precious taken away from you is something that only those who are strong can prevail through. I am sure that Liz is looking down from Heaven, thinking of how precious and sweet you and Madeline are. I know that she is very proud of you and wishes that she could be with you both. Realize that Liz was taken for a reason that sometimes only God knows. Continue to raise this precious little girl with your abundant amount of love, and never under estimate your power as a father. I will remember you in my prayers, and hope that your life is continued to be blessed as it is now. God Bless you and Madeline.
Matt, I read your article in People magazine and tried to send you an email earlier but for someone reason it didn’t take. What you have done for your daughter and late wife is amazing. I wish you the best of luck. I have been a single parent and it gets rough at times. Just remember your amazing wife and what you two set out to do,which was to have a child your wife’s memory will live on in your daughter. My thoughts and prayers will be with your family. Jennifer in Az.
Just met y’all today, wanted to say hello and thanks for sharing you and Maddy and Liz’s story with me, you have a pretty amazing daughter there!
Matt, I read the article about you and your beautiful daughter in People’s sister magazine Who weekly in Australia. You truly are in inspiration, whether you realise it now or not. I was truly touched by your story and was deeply saddened that your soul mate was taken from you both at what should have been such a happy time in your lives. Thank you for sharing your story with the world.
Sorry for the length……..
Reading your blog from the beginning, my thoughts and feelings keep tumbling around and I try and refrain from leaving so many comments that I start to look like a stalker. But I am just overwhelmed with so many feelings. Today I realized I’ve been missing a lot of your posts (my navigating is not very good I guess) , including the very first ones, so I started from the beginning. I got to the 24th and a part of me just wanted to stop right there and re-write history for you, Madeline and all of us. But since I don’t have that kind of super power I had to keep going. Meanwhile this lump in my throat hasn’t gone away. But at the same time I can’t help but smile and feel joy at the love that radiates through your words, photos and the love that surrounds Madeline, from your family, friends and strangers/ friends. I am struck by what an amazing father you are, and human being, which leads me to realize I would have been equally amazed and inspired by Liz because she did afterall choose you, not only as her life partner but also as the father of her child, the most precious thing. She would no doubt be amazingly proud of the life you are giving Madeline and her love for you would multiply. I am also struck by the importance of having a father to guide and support you throughout your life. Everyone talks so much about the importance of Mothers and how their absence in a child’s life impacts them. When I became a Mother I realized how not having my father around in my earlier years has impacted me today. When my daughter turned 2 I was overwhelmed with feelings of hurt, anger and confusion of how he could have simply (in my mind) abandoned his family and gone off to be with another. Don’t get me wrong, I am not full of resentment but it still hurts to think I wasn’t important enough. Madeline is going to always know how important and loved she is, by you, her Mommy and so many others. You have all been cheated so much, that words cannot express how my heart hurts by the unfathomable unfairness and pain of it all but I still can’t help but think how lucky Madeline is.
And on a completely other matter I am wondering if you have heard of the movie “Once” or it’s amazing soundtrack. I ask because it’s a great movie with great music and you, being such a music lover/connoisseur I wondered if you heard it, what you thought, and if you haven’t seen the movie or heard the music…….go now!
I read the article about you in People’s Magazine. It really moved me and touched my heart. Im so sorry for your loss. I think you are an amazing father!
Like so many others I read about your blog in People magazine. I’ve spent the last week catching up on your lives since the arrival of Maddy. This blog really reflects your love for your two favorite ladies. You are doing a fantastic job with Maddy — she’s an obviously happy, healthy and well loved baby. Come back to Chicago when it’s warmer outside!
How could I have missed that?! Not long after I left my last comment I went to the link I missed about one of Liz’s favorite songs. I’ll never hear that song now without thinking of her and the rest of you, and since I have the CD and the movie that will be plenty.
You have a couple of great ladies in your life. Maddy is so beautiful and Liz is the ORA around both of you! You are a wonderful father. I hope you know how much we all appreciate you letting us share parts of your life. You have touched my heart and I am greatful. Best wishes for love and happiness!!!
Matt, you fucking awe me. I found this blog by accident and you and your beautiful Maddy have touched my life in a way that I can’t put into words. You may not get back to me I may not post again (but I’ll be reading) but know that you, Liz and Madeleine are in my heart and in my prayers.
I don’t know what it is like to loose a spouse. But this year I lost my elderly mom and 2 weeks later I lost my sister, my bestfriend and my world ended, or so I thought. After reading your story, and the way you had to step up and take it all on yourself, my problems don’t seem so world ending after all.
You have a beautiful little girl and I am sure Liz is watching over you (and probably laughing sometimes) and beeming with pride.
You are a remarkable father and I am sure Maddy will grow up
knowing that you have done this wonderful thing and she will have your memories of Liz and she will be very proud of her father. The world needs more people like you.
a poem for you Matt and sweetie Madeline =)
Of course Maddy,
when i look at you
my world revolves.
it leaves me always,
but i live for you and me.
you instruct me everyday sweetie,
every single moment
is golden.
your touch makes me live
over and over again.
i believe you,
i believe the love in you,
for in you i am now a miracle!
in you i found a new self.
set apart, i will remain
your Matt, you hero everyday. =)
Stay strong Matt. God bless you
and Maddy.
~mheng from the Philippines
My Sister-In-Law found your blog for me. First and for most your daughter is beautiful and so is your wife. I am feeling awful myself. I just lost my husband on January 6th, 2009 to illness. We have an 18 month old Alek who was born on 07/07/07. You can read more about our story at http://www.thedupreyfamily.blogspot.com, if you would like. As I know you are very busy. Randy had a research based Stem cell transplant at Duke University from Jan 08-June08, it did not stop the progression of his disease (scleroderma). He was 26 years old and I miss him like crazy. People says it gets easier, but the more time that goes by the more I miss him. Thanks for sharing your story it gives me a bit of hope……
Trying to Smile
Kate
I actually found out about you from People Magazine! I think you are doing a wonderful job and I wish more men could see what kind of work a woman goes through to raise a child. I so wish Liz could be there with you though! I’m gonna go before I cry
I love the way she stared at the fishes.