tuesday.
20 days into
a better year.
back to our real
lives at
daycare and work.
maddy was happy
to return,
but i could
have used a
few more days off.
lots of things
happening as a
result of the
people article.
calls, e-mails from
lots of different folks.
gonna try to
plug away at
my work, ignore
everything for now
than catch up
with the e-mails
and return the phone
calls later.
that night, maddy
passed out early
and i got to work.
i stayed up
way later than
i should have,
but by 3:45am
i realized that i
needed to take
care of some of
this face-to-face.
3 hours later
we were both up,
and starting day
#21 of 2009.
i got maddy to daycare
and i made it
to work.
i talked to my
manager about my
need to leave
the next day.
he was extremely
understanding, which
is such an amazing
thing for a manager
to be.
the good news is
that it’s kind of
quiet for me
at work at the moment
and i have tons
of vacation time,
so much
that i’m close
to reaching my limit.
the days have
to be used up,
so i used some of
liz’s
airline miles to
book a flight
to nyc for the
following morning.
that night maddy
went to bed early
and i worked
to unpack the bags
still packed with
our clothes for
mexico, and replace
them with clothes
better suited
for the cold of
the nyc.
thursday morning.
5:30am.
january 22nd.
about to run away
from it all again.
another trip to
the nyc and
another full day
of travel.
we got to the
airport where i
continued our quest
to get through the
security line faster
than the fastest
well-seasoned
business person.
waiting to board
the plane, a man,
a father of two,
started talking to
me as i mixed
a bottle while
holding my
squirming child.
“you’ve got your hands full there.”
you’re fucking right i do.
i thought,
but said,
“i do indeed.”
a bit of conversation
and then the question
dropped from his mouth…
“traveling alone?”
“yes.”
“you’re a brave man. meeting your wife in new york?”
“no. she passed away.”
“oh. i’m so sorry.”
“me too.”
then a few
seats away
a woman says,
“are you matt?”
“uhh…yeah.”
“i’m a friend of a friend of your in-laws and we were just talking about you yesterday!”
i think the guy
with all the
questions was a little
relieved that this
woman jumped in
and saved him.
the two of
us talked about
commonalities until
the flight was ready
to leave.
we boarded the
plane and took our seats.
as i tried to finish
up my phone call,
a flight attendant
tapped me on
the shoulder
and whispered,
“let me take her for you.”
so awesome.
i finished my call
while maddy smiled
with her new
best friend.
she was back
in my arms
right before take off.
that squirmy, whiny
child from the return
flight from
mexico is back,
and she made
the flight
to the nyc
kind of a pain
in the ass.
has my luck
run out?
i fucking hope not.
i did a lot
of walking up and
down the aisle,
and of course maddy’s
new bff held her
whenever she wasn’t
serving drinks.
5.5 hours and
a bout of
short-term deafness later,
i was outside
the terminal with
madeline, waiting
for a taxi.
our family friend
offered to share
the car into the
city, and ultimately
refused to take
my share of
the cab fare.
we dropped our
stuff off at
our hotel and made
our way up
broadway for tea
with cara d.
both knowing the
pain of losing
someone close to us,
we had a nice
discussion about pasts
and futures.
after tea is was
dinner with kate c.
(the woman who took the photo asked, “would you like me to take a family portrait?” she had the camera in her hands before i could even start my explanation).
we shared some
laughs and
some stories,
and then it was
time to say goodbye.
maddy and i
have a full day
ahead of us
tomorrow, and it
starts really early.
maddy was asleep
by the time
we got to our
hotel room.
i fell asleep,
listening to this.
friday.
january 23rd.
inching closer
to a day
i want to celebrate
and one i don’t
want to think about.
up by 6:00
(is that really 3:00am where we’re from?)
and in the shower
while my
favorite daughter
continues her sleep.
she was still
out of it
when i walked
out of the shower.
i got myself dressed
then did my
best to change
her diaper and
get her dressed
without waking
her up.
success.
i try to let
her sleep as
long as possible
on these trips to
the east coast,
in hopes of not
messing with her
concept of time.
7:15, and it
was time to
get her in the
carrier for our
very long day.
i woke her
up as i always
do, by slowly
rubbing her back,
until she goes
into a full,
arms-over-head
stretch, then placing
my palm on her
stomach and gently
shaking her into
uncontrollable laughter.
that shit makes
my day.
jacket, winter hat
and shoes on
(both of us),
we hit the streets,
walking north
to our first meeting.
i thought about
liz
a lot as
we made the trek
to 58th between
8th and 9th.
thought about
all those stranger
smiles she’s missing
out on,
the ones i get
as i walk up the
street with a
happy baby strapped
to my chest.
thought about how
happy she would
to see how
well our child
is doing.
made it to
the breakfast meeting,
and had a conversation
that could very
well change our lives.
after that, we headed
a block east
and a few blocks
south to another meeting.
another great
discussion that made
me look forward
to a new
and unexpected future.
from there
we were off to
44th between
2nd and 3rd
to meet the folks
from rachael ray
to discuss our upcoming
(now past)
appearance on the show.
madeline impressed
everyone with her
smile and unbelievably
happy demeanor
(both of which she got from her mother).
then we were
off to 9th st.
between 4th ave. and broadway
to do an interview
with aol.
(results here).
madeline was very
active during our
meeting, testing out
her happy screaming voice
(i sort of feel sorry for the person who had to transcribe that interview).
in the middle,
a woman peeked her
head into the interview
and asked if she
could take maddy
for a walk.
“sure.”
20 mins. later the
interview was over
and maddy was
still making her
rounds through the hallways.
i found her
a little ways down
the hall, in the arms
of the woman
with whom she
left, and talking
to another.
as i approached, the
woman said,
“i was walking down the hall, heard a baby, looked up, and immediately recognized madeline’s outfit from the blog, so i decide to stop and say hello.”
wow.
we talked for
a bit, but
i had to cut
things short ’cause
we were late
for our next meeting.
we headed north
to park ave.
somewhere around 45th.
had a very
interesting conversation
over a beer,
promised to stay
in touch then
headed a few
blocks west
to meet up with
our friends lauren
and melissa so
we could go
to dinner.
the long day
seems to have
worn maddy out…
she was a little
fussy as i
tried to eat
my dinner.
i gave her
a bit of my
food and then
let her chew
on my phone
for a bit,
which made her a
happy baby once again.
after dinner,
we met up with
a few more
folks for a beer
at a place
down the street.
maddy took a
nap on the
padded bench while
we all talked.
a little while
later i felt
like madeline looked,
so i decided it was
time to head back
to the hotel
for the night.
got maddy situated
and sat on the
edge of the bed,
just looking
at her.
the best part
of my day was that
maddy joined me
for all of
these discussions.
she is my
#1 priority for
now and forever,
so everyone who
wants my time
gets the package
deal that includes her.
(and i think they prefer it that way anyway).
175 Comments
I’m exhausted reading everything that you pack in a day! Maddy is a trooper!!
I can’t wait to see what is in store for you two! Whatever it is…you deserve it Matt and Maddy too!
Haha! That one picture with her head crooked made me crack up!
Keep up the good work busy bee
The adventures of Maddy and Daddy continue. The Blackberry as a teething ring thingy is too cute- RIM’s marketing those things to the wrong age group, the under 2 crowd should be their target
Lol @ madeline chewing your blackberry! It won’t be long before she starts asking for her own! Good job on RR show btw!
So mysterious! I can’t wait to hear.
great that some good is coming out of all of this. Can’t wait to see what you guys have in store next.
I haven’t commented again in a while, but wanted to let you know I dvr’d the rachael ray show & my mom watched it too…I hope so much good has been brought of that! You are an amazing dad, & I too am looking forward to what is coming next! Thanks again for sharing, Kalena from the Ohio.
That last picture is just adorable
I love whatt you said in the end. It sounds like your trip to NYC was extremely busy but productive.Cant wait to see what comes of it all.
You are on such an amazing journey. I am glad you are sharing it all with us.
I’m sure you know this already but you’ve got an awesome daughter. I can’t name many kids who seem to just go with the flow, mine included. I loved watching you guys on RR, Maddy’s just as cute on tv as she is in her pics and video. Wishing all the best for you both!
Cried my eyes out watching the Rachel Ray show, but it was so adorable to see Maddy get excited when people clapped. She’s getting so big! Can’t wait to hear more about the things you have going on.
Even tired she looks gorgeous! Can’t get enough of you two.
Best wishes from the Wolf Pack, again.
Oh, and I meant to let you know earlier — great job on her hair! Her little bows and things are always so cute. My dad was hopeless with mine at first but by 1st grade he’d mastered the french-braid and learned to let professionals trim my bangs.
So good to read another post. As always, loe to see what you’re up to.
got that right
when are you head back to the greatness of the MN
Holy Moly!
Sometimes it makes me tired just reading your blog Matt.
How you keep up with it all amazes me.
Thats sounded like one busy day…I’ve never been to NYC but you seem to make the most out of those trips of yours! Can’t wait to hear what’s next for the two of you!
good stuff. excited to hear more about your plans…
and, fyi – sometimes i am still just completely struck by how seriously cute maddy is.
That’s what I always say too… Benjamin and I are a package deal. And I too think he makes me SO much cooler. Without him I’d just be a boring single chick.
WOW. Busy three days! Maddy has the most beautiful eyes. Hope you are having a good day with that little bundle of joy
Maddy is so freaking cute! And you guys certainly do pack a lot into your days
Keep up the amazing work, you are awesome!
Congrats on NEW endeavors! =)
how do you remember all this? did you write this stuff while it was happening or can you remember?
I can’t wait to hear what all of these meetings are about!! I have been catching up on all of your older blogs the past few days at work and literally have been crying at my desk. I had to tell my boss that I just sneezed when he asked why my eyes were red! You are so amazing and even though I know you have heard it a million times….Maddy could not have a better daddy!!
Madeline’s beauty and normalcy continues to amaze. I’ll include your parenting skills in that amazing category. Well done, Matt. Looking forward to her birthday, as it’s one I share with her, with many many moons between the years.
I agree with Chris..I am tired just hearing about your day. You have an awesome boss, circle of friends (new and old), and the supportive family a guy could ask for!
Looking forward to hearing what all those important discussions were about!!
I want to put the Liz Logelin foundation button on my blog. how do I do it? Anyone?
Reading this made me tired
I love your description of waking Maddy up, there is no better way to start the day than with your daughter’s smile!
Matt — you crack me up with all of your foreshadowing. Keep on keepin on!
You’re a wonderful dad and Maddy is a wonderful baby… you’ve done a great job Matt. That’s all =)
Dropping in to say hello once again! Madeline is growing so much, she is so beautiful. Sending lots of love and prayers.
What a busy day Matt & Maddy! Been reading since People Mag article & have told all my fellow blog readers to read your site & also donate to the Foundation =). I loved the Rachael Ray segment – glad I was able to see it. I’m glad things are happening for you two that will bring great memories for you to share with Maddy someday. Keep up the awesome work of being a great father! You’re doing a fantabulous job!
I am so excited to see what your new future may be. I love the photo of Madeline with the big blue eyes and the rosy cheeks. She gets more beautiful each day!
I love the way you write about your interactions with complete strangers. We are all connected and it comes through in your writing. You and Maddy are a beautiful set. Keep on keepin’ on…
Wow! It is exhausting to read about just 1 day! So excited to hear the news about your future!
Take care,
Debbie
Wow! It all seems so exciting.
I can’t wait to see what happens for you guys. Whatever it is, you deserve all of it…and them some
Also love the photos at the top of the page! Looks great!
She is really the cutest baby.
I love reading your stories and hearing your adventures. You are an amazing dad and Maddy is one lucky chickipoo.
haha great pic, I bet she slept really soundly that night! Sounds like you two have a bunch to look forward to!! Can’t wait to see what’s to come!
I was so bored tonight. I was hoping that when I clicked on your link, saved in my favorites list, there would be an update
Thanks,
Lisa
That last picture of Maddy is exactly how I’m feeling at the moment too…mind you, it is 3.30 am here in the UK.
I’m not sure if I’ve ever commented here before, if not then I’ve been lurking far too long!
I just wanted to say that I think Maddy is a simply beautiful little girl, and that I really wish you both all the best for the future!
I live 2 hours away from NYC and have never been, and you live across the country! Guess I better get crackin’! It’s nice to see you and Maddy enjoying yourself!
Once again, you have demonstrated what a truly wonderful father you are!! Every child deserves a daddy like you!! =) Thanks so much for sharing with the world. You are amazing!!!!!
love from the Cleveland, OH to you and Maddy.
I’ve been reading for quite a while now (found you via Lauren on tumblr) and truly do have a lot of love in my heart for you two.
Wow! Whether you know it or not, your are an amazing dad. It’s harder than you think to not only set priorities but to follow through with them as well. I love that you said that you and Maddy are a package deal because that is exactly what families are. I just wanted to throw in some positive feedback from one single parent to another. Love the blog!
Definitely an exhausting, but productive time! You both deserve some more relaxation.
Wow! I hope my kids can travel that well someday. I’m sooo excited for your future! Sounds like you must have some great plans.
ps Loved you on Rachael Ray-Maddy is just beautiful!!
Love the photo of maddys bright eyes! Yup, that’s it my friend. Parenthood+ package deal. Tea for two! You two are adorable!
Looking forward to hearing whats in store for you and Maddy!! I think you are doing a great Job!!
I don’t know how you do what you do! All those late nights and all those hours of travel and doing it with a baby too. Major props to you super dad! Madeline is as always adorable. And congrats on all the shows, magazines and other great events coming your way.
Thank you for sharing your days – and late nights, as a single mom its nice to hear a dads side of the story.
You are amazingly strong. Thank you for continuing to share your story. It’s a wonderful thing to be able to touch so many lives.
Wow…I can only imagine just how worn out you would have been after that trip. Also looking forward to seeing what comes out of some of those meetings (if anything).
Nothing wrong with a “package deal”, either. As a single parent, that’s just the way it has to be.
Oh…and awesome pic of Maddy with the phone. Great stuff.
I think Maddy is a bonus in that package deal. Your blog is beautiful.
It sounds like you had a good time in NYC. I hope that whatever has the potential to change your life works out just the way you want it to!
She’s getting so big!! I’m on pins and needles waiting to find out all of the amazing things in store for the both of you.
wow what an amazing dad you are. Maddy is such a trooper. You derserve all good things coming your way. I love reading your blog and cannot wait for the next to read. I look forward to seeing more about Maddy growing up and the next chapter in your lives.
what a sweet daddy…and that last photo! man, that IS what a full day feels like at the end of it when you’re out of your schedule!
I think it is awesome that you are including her in everything that is going on. Her travel skills are amazing, even if every flight isn’t perfect. I couldn’t do what she does.
Wow, an action packed day for an action packed duo!! I hope that all of these opportunities work out as you hope. Madeline deserves the best, and it is obvious that you give that to her! What a great dad you are. Now go and get some damn sleep will you!!
“conversation that could very well change our lives”= book? reality show? exciting!
Wishing you happy and safe travels Matt & Madeline!
I love all the new pictures. She’s beautiful. Sounds like you guys have been busy, hope whatever it is works out wonderfully for you both.
It sounded like a wonderful trip. I’m so excited for you and Maddy and all of the new things that are coming your way. Can’t wait to hear all about them!
Take it from a mom of 4….having a baby make it through that day (hair bow intact I might add) as well as she did is AMAZING. Different time zone, different bed, different people….Maddie rocks!
i loooove reading your blog!! you are such an amazing dad, madeline is lucky to have you!
“she is my
#1 priority for
now and forever”
…you are an amazing Dad. All the best to you and your #1 girl!
Hi Matt,
I am a new reader, thanks in large part to the RR show. Since meeting you and your beautiful daughter in that episode, I have become a very avid reader of your site here. You are nothing short of amazing! What you are doing for Madeline is just spectacular! Liz (although I never had the opportunity to know her in life)…I have to believe that she would be so unimaginably proud of the wonderful father that you are for your child! My heart & thoughts go out to you and Madeline. Thank you so much for allowing us, would be strangers to travel your journey with you!
That is one gorgeous baby you have! Good luck with all the possibly life-altering activities you’ve got up your sleeve.
i’ve been reading your blog for months now but have never commented.
you continue to amaze me each time i stopy by though. and hope that if ever placed in a similar situation that i could survive (and much more) like you’ve done.
you hear it all the time but thank you so much for sharing all this with the whole world.
I’m tired just thinking about that day with my daughter. Phew. You’re awesome.
You are such a Hoot!
I hope that you and Maddy are going to be
around when I fly out in July.
Going to Lompoc!
North of you about 1hr 20min
I like the picture of the 2 of you here at the bottom
in the mn. The hat and attire really fits.
Well waiting to hear what tomorrow has in store
for you and Maddy.
Rachel from the mn
love the last picture of madeline! she’s a doll.
you’re an awesome father. thanks for all the updates for us daily readers. best wishes.
i couldn’t sleep. thought i would come by and see how you two are doing. seem to be great
I know you get this a lot but you are doing a great job with Maddy. I heard about the blog from the RR show and I literally cried for an hour before my son#2 woke up from his nap… . You’re a stong person, Matt… . I know I couldn’t do it alone and you’re doing it. You’re awesome and that little darling you’re raising is proff of it. I just wanted to say that… until next entry…
I have read your blog for awhile now and never commented. One thing that has really impressed me is that you try to do things for Madeline that Liz would want. And it caught my attention on this post that Madeline had a barrette in her hair. I don’t know any man that would do that, and it’s just a little thing but it’s a big thing too.
btw, I know how to spell… typing is a hard issue since son #1 stuffed paperclips into my keyboard…
Wow Matt. Liz would be so proud. You are doing an awesome job. The balance must seem so out of control sometimes. I can’t imagine how you get through it, I guess you just do. Glad the trip sounds like a success, I know all of those things that will happen for you and Maddy you totally deserve. HUgs to the little one. HIgh Five to the dad. If your ever in Atlanta hit us up. We’ll take you out for a beer and let the kids play.
I have insomnia – and have a bit of an Ambien buzz – so I think I will take this time to “de-lurk”. I read your entire blog in one day. You and Madeline are an inspiration. Your writing almost makes me feel like I know you, and knew Liz. Your raw emotion and honesty are breathtaking. Your taunting people with talk of “life altering” events is nothing short of nail-biting excitement. You are to be commended for the message of hope you are spreading and to the amazing way you have adapted to being a single father in a busy, crazy time/life. Madeline is stunning, as was Liz. I know what it’s like to be a single parent – and you are definitely kicking adversity in the face. Blessings to you and your sweet Madeline…
You are a wonderful father. Maddy is a very lucky girl to have you! She always looks so darn cute! Can’t wait to hear what you’ll be up to next.
Keep doing what you do best: Lovin that little girl of yours.
oh her hair is getting long squeeee! Keep up the good work!
oh my, that look just made my day! she is SO adorable, and beautiful.
and btw, that clip about your story on rachel ray was just heartwarming. my prayers for your and maddy!
keep up the great work!
Asalamu Alaykom Mr. Matt,
I just watched two parents bury their 6-year-old today.
You have to come to a Muslim funeral and see from your sociologist point of view how we cope. It was actually my first one. Avoided all the others. Couldn’t avoid this one.
Listen dude: live it the way you want to. Your life with Miss Madeline is meant to be extraordinary. Some lives just ARE like that.
But you might have to rewrite the above wording:
“so everyone who
wants her time
gets the package
deal that includes me.
(and i think they prefer it that way anyway).”
just caught up yesterday on reading all past posts (twitter abeille19 – and no you didnt send me to the DR lol) have never commented before but now that I have caught up I just wanna say that you and Maddy amaze me everyday. I am sure Liz is so proud of you for stepping up and being a AWESOME dad!! Glad to hear good things are coming out of the people and the Rachael Ray show!!
cant wait to hear more from the Matt and Maddy adventures!
I definitely agree w what a few others said. I am very anxiously anticipating what is going on for you and Maddy, as always, I hope that it is nothing but the best. Your travels just amaze me, traveling, taking care of a 10 month old, having time to still breathe…simply amazing. I also hope that you have some kind of book, maybe? As always, amazing pics…Madeline is so pretty, hairbow and all
You’re a travelin’ man! I can’t wait to hear what’s in store from all of these meetings you had. You’re already impacting so many lives and I know that it’s just going to continue. You’re an amazing person and that little girl is just precious.
Such a busy man you are, Matt. Always on the go. *smiles* but that’s good… maddy will get to see a lot of things most people never do and never will. i loved seeing you guys on rachael ray. i’m praying that all this will help the foundation, which is what i know you’re hoping for, as well.
you’re both amazing.
Can’t wait to hear of what’s in the works. Loved getting to see Maddy on RR. She is amazing.
She looks more like her mommy every day. You are sure a busy guy, you deserve all the great things happening to you. Thanks for the update…
“…#1 priority…”
So beautiful, Matt!
Such a sweet little girl.
My 18 month old son and I will be at the picnic with Alaina in a couple of weeks and we can’t wait to meet you two.
Great pics! Madeline is soooooooo cute!
I say a prayer for you and your daughter everynight!!!!!Liz is surely watching over you both.It is nothing short of magical to watch you grow and learn right along with your baby girl.Bless you both
You are amazing Matt….
Keep up the hard work.
LIndsay
http://www.rememberingavi.blogspot.com
I love how you wake maddy up.
What a busy time for you two!! I always say that traveling with a baby younger than a year old is the best and easiest time.
P
I can so see all this turning into a movie deal. Love story, tragedy, beautiful baby, the twists and turns of life, the ups and downs, the life of your blog, you learning how to become a father overnight, all your travels, etc. But no one would be fit to play the part of Liz. I can’t think of any actress that radiates the way your Liz did.
Let me know when you make it the Cannes film festival…we’ll meet up! :O)
Maddy is a cute lil doll! She is gorgeous!
you are such a busy guy! Good luck to the things that could potentially be a big change for you guys, can’t wait to hear what that could be.
You are and awesome daddy!
I had to LOL at the “I felt like Madeline looked” comment. Too cute.
Your show with RR was good. I definitely didn’t have a dry eye watching it. It’s one thing to read each of your post, but another to actually hear you talk about losing Liz. It broke my heart all over again (from the first time I ever read your blog) You’re doing a great job Matt.
Wow…you don’t mess around. YOu decide you need to take care of things in person and days later you have more meetings than I can count. You are doing amazing things with Maddie and amazing things in memory of Liz.
first of all your manager is awesome. second you had a serverely busy couple of days there. third (but really first) your line about Madeline being your #1 priority now and forever and that you are a package deal brought tears to my eyes. i’m so sappy.
hugs from NJ,
erica and Landon
You certainly pack it into your days.
That routine of bedtimes past 3am and up again at 6am is well-known to any lone parent of tiny children — I know it well.
And it’s amazing just how energising it can be to live on pure adrenaline.
At least the upside of sleeping so little is that your sleep rarely gets interrupted…
Best wishes from the London.
Busy days!!! Love the picture of Maddy with the wide eyes!!! She’s so stinking cute!!!! I’m exhausted just reading about your adventures!!!!
Your description of how you wake up Maddy was very cute! I bet she loves it too! Hope you have a rad day.
*a new and unexpected future*, yeah!
You were right in my hood! I work at 57th and 7th…..wish I could have bumped into you guys!
Hi Matt,
Just found your blog through another blog. Just wanted to tell you that not all men could do what you are doing. You are definitely special and your daughter is beautiful. Good luck with your future endeavors.
Barbi:)
Matt-
Your daughter is so precious! I’ve been reading your blog for the past three months or so and have just caught up-to-date. You’re an amazing person and a wonderful Daddy. I’m most amazed how you get out and about traveling with Maddy. My twin boys will be 1 in March and I mainly stay in the house. You’ve really inspired me to start having more outings with them. Thank you!
I have no clue how you do it…. the traveling…. the staying so dang busy…. but I’m thankful that your life is being blessed, even through all of the darkness. There is light. Bless you and Madeline. I will continue to pray for your strength.
“made me look forward to a new and unexpected future.”
I’m so glad you have these kinds of moments amidst the continued sadness and grief.
Take care of yourself
Hope the future is as bright and promessing as it can be, you and Maddy deserve that and more. Again your writting brought tears to my eyes when I read: “I thought about how happy she would to see how well our child is doing” Liz must be very impressed and proud as everyone else is, but she more than anybody, she did not have time to tell you how should would like her child to be raised, but I bet you are doing it just the way she would have wanted it to be, if not beyond that. Take care, hugs
I love the way you wake her up. If I have to wake my 16 month old I do it the same way…
There is a lot of love for the “dynamic duo” of Maddy and Daddy. I so enjoy reading about your adventures and all of the things you have accomplished in the last year.
You continue to inspire me to hold on a little tighter and love a little longer each day. I know you have heard it a thousand times, but you are doing such a wonderful job as a Dad and a Husband. I imagine Liz is quite proud of all you have done, but more importantly what a wonderful job you have done with Maddy.
Much love~
Best 2 for 1 deal around! People that don’t appreciate you all showing up together are missing a beat or 7. But you know that.
(((hugs)))
Definitely sounds like there are some positive and happy things just around the corner for you two. I will be anxious to see what comes of it all.
You have such a busy life. I am sure you make it that way on purpose. I would recognize, hell my 3 year old would recognize you and Maddie if we saw you somewhere.
Thinking of you guys….
Can Maddy seriously get any fucking cuter? And who could miss her outfits? She’s the most fashion forward baby the world has ever known! Take care!!
I am so jealous that you have one of those kids who can fall asleep anywhere. I am really hoping my next one will be like that!
Sounds like you had an extremely busy and productive trip to NYC. Can’t wait to hear what other amazing things are happening in your future!
I love your writing style and that you are completely honest with us readers, “Your fucking right I do”…have your hands full with your daughter. This blog amazes us readers, but I do wonder how this blog impacts you. I think the readers understand that as Maddy gets older, she will take even more of your time, which means less time in sharing with us. I took my daughter to Disney and an old high school friend worked at Disney so he got us in free. He followed us the whole day, and people were asking if we wanted our pictures taken together…The answer was no, I wanted my husband, not some guy who was a bit off. I guess that was the price I paid by saving some money to get into Disney…I kept thinking the whole day, “never again”. I rather be alone and be in a funk than saving a few bucks. The last trip our family took before my husband died was Disney….Talk about visiting a place that you have been together…tough, very tough going back alone with child.
You keep dangling that carrot in front of us Matt! I cannot wait to hear what is in store for the dynamic duo!
Kudos to the boss for being so cool. As always, you are AMAZING and Maddy is so lucky to have you (and vice versa). Sending you good thoughts and prayers.
Amy from Louisville in the KY
How do you do it…seriously. I have a 1 yr old and I have help, but I am still tired all of the time!
I love that you guys are a package deal…that is just the way it should be!
Thank you for sharing and have a great day. I hope the rain has stopped and the sun is shining on you and Maddy today!
Michelle in Denver
I am new to your Blog and it has taken me days and lots of tears and smiles to catch up with your amazing life…What a wonderful world you are providing for your sweet Maddy.
My at what a long day that must have been! A new and unexpected future~can’t wait!
Wow, what a crazy day that was! Also the picture of Maddy is looking all frazzled and surprised is too cute. There have been a few days I’ve felt the way she looks. Here’s to new (and sometimes f-ing scary) adventures!
I’ve been reading this blog since 04/2008, and I never comment. I just wanted to say… Maddy is soo cute, Matt!!! She is very lucky to have such a great person raising her. You are doing an awesome job being her daddy. Good luck with whatever is to come out of those meetings!! I pray that all works out for you two. Take care of yourself and that beautiful baby!!
You know, I wonder if some of the problem with Maddy and flying might be the age. The one and only time I flew with Anna as a baby was when she was 11 months old, when I flew down to spend some time with Charley’s family about a month after he died. She was okay (but exhausting for mommy) on the flight down, now that she could crawl and get into stuff in her normal day, so being contained for a flight was tiresome for both of us.
The flight home, however, was a different story. She screamed her fucking head off for the entire 2 hour flight. She was exhausted but overstimulated, out of her element from the vacation, being off schedule, from having a frazzled, exhausted, grieving widow-mommy. And I got the dirty looks too, and some patience from most neighboring passengers, but no offers of help. (Maybe mom traveling alone with screaming baby looks like she needs less help than dad with screaming baby?) So I’m feeling and remembering your pain…literally…on all baby/widowed/single parent/traveling fronts. Maybe she’s just needing the routine and sameness now, more than she did when she was younger (I know Anna was the same, after several months of my widowhood, and as she got older–she just didn’t do as well with Mommy carting her around everywhere at all hours, like I had when she was younger and freshly widowed).
Glad that the trip went well and that it sounds like you had some amazing, new potential opportunities. I’m keeping my fingers crossed for you both. And as I read your entry, I realized that Maddy is (was) almost exactly the same age as Anna was when her dad died…and I’m so sorry for you, and Liz, and Maddy, that you didn’t have those precious 10 months together…and I treasure what I DID get to have with Anna and her daddy together.
Hugs,
Candice
I am really excited to hear about all these changes going on and how it all unfolds.
Hey Matt and Maddy – that pic of Maddy with the rosy cheeks is the best. I always know when Zoe is at her limit cause her cheeks do the same thing! The RR show was great – I have saved it on my DVR so I can show people when they come to the house and I posted a link on my FB page – I just don’t think too many people can know about the Foundation and what a great cause it really is.
Love all of the updates – hopefully you can all slow down soon – that is if you want to!
Take care of the two of you!
Jen and Zoe in the MN
What a day you guys had! Can’t wait to hear all the good stuff coming your way.
Good for you!!
I love your comment about the package deal. You are such a good daddy…that’s the way it should be!! (((HUGS))) to both of you! Glad this year is going well for you so far.
madeline is beautiful baby… ^^ n u is his hero of her life…..
Ah! I can’t wait to hear about what’s in your future! Sounds exciting.
You’re a great dad, Matt.
You are so amazing. It’s exhausting to think about all you do in a day. Maddie is so lucky to have you. She is going to have a fantastic life with no fear and no hesitation. She’s going to be wildly successful at anything she wants and it will certainly be thanks to all you do for her, but mainly WITH her. Beaches, cities, planes, cabs, friends, family. This is what will build her to be something the world has never seen. I hope you blog forever, because this child is going to CONTINUE to be something so very incredible.
Oh, and I love the “package deal” thing. That’s what I tell my girlfriends who don’t have kids when they invite me to lunch. lol
I just read your entire blog from start to finish! I saw you on the Rachael Ray Show and have become obsessed lol! I just wanted to say what many others have said, you are just an amazing father and a very strong man. That baby is absolutely precious and beautiful…good work! I’m an Elem Edu major at the University of Alabama and I have ALL of my friends stalking you now! We can’t wait to see what happens next! If you’re ever in the AL, let us know so we can see you, Madeline, and the infamous robot! Take care!
Abso freakin lutely!! it is a package deal! And those who don’t get it, don’t deserve your time
. Good for you Matt!
DVRed the Rachel Ray Show and when I watched it the whole thing was eaten up by a bad weather bulletin. Oh well, I was able to watch it online. You guys did great! It’s wonderful to continue to watch your journey unfold. BTW, I think you you a little virtuoso on your hands!
Yeah– actually they want her time, not yours….get used to it.
Seems like you had a good trip then?
Wow, busy trip!! You’re everywhere now, its crazy!
That last picture had me cracking up, poor Madeline sure looked fried. 
maddy is such a seasoned traveller, i should take some tips from her!
all these meetings have me very intrigued…
If I saw you on the street I would feel too guilty about taking your time to say hello!
Sounds like you had an exciting trip! I just spent many nights reading your whole blog after seeing you on rachael ray. My heart goes out to you Matt. I think it is incredible how you are stepping up. I know you always think what else could you have done? But trust me there are things you could have done instead. I am so happy that you decided to be an amazing father. I lost my mother to cancer when I was 13. My father didn’t step up like you did. He fell back into his drug and alcohol addiction (he had been sober for 12 yrs) and ultimately he killed himself a year after my mother died. Your blog has helped me see how he probably felt. It has really been therapy for me to read everything you have written. It has brought back alot of pain but I think now that I am in my twenties I need to deal with the pain again as an adult. You are doing such a great job with Maddy. My son is 2 months younger than Maddy!
Matt, I first learned your story when you were on the Rachael Ray show and have been addicted to your blog since! I am so sorry about your wife, but I know she is smiling down on you and Maddy. You are an amazing dad. Feel free to contact me if you ever need anything.
seriously matt…you need to do a book of nothing but maddy faces. dear lord that baby is cute. and some of her expressions are hilarious. I don’t know how you stand it.
Busy, busy…
Just viewed the results of your aol interview and was even more saddened. As a mom, I am sad for what Liz is missing out on and sad for Maddy. You really are doing a great job, Matt, we’re all proud of you! You’re doing exactly what any parent would hope they could do if faced with a similar situation. Thank you for sharing.
Hi Matt- I have been following your blog for almost 3 months now, and never commented until now… can I just say that I think that you are doing a wonderful job with Maddy, and she is gonna appreciate every little thing that you are doing for her… I cant wait to get to work everyday to find out what what you two are up to
Keep up the awesome work, Maddy is Beautiful, Liz is Beautiful and you are amazing.
Wow have you guys been busy! I’m excited to hear about your life-chaging news!
who wouldn’t want that adorable little Maddy in their life too?!
Hi Madeline & Matt- I was given your blog address a few weeks ago by a friend who thought I could use a little ‘uplifting’. I have to say, when I first started reading your story I thought, “Is She crazy? How is this Uplifting?” But after reading ALL of your story I wanted to thank you for sharing so much of your life with us. Without explaining a bunch of ‘ stuff ‘, I wanted you to know that your story has inspired me to be the best that I can be for my children, as well as the very special children I work with. I thank you and Maddy both! I wish you and Maddy the best in your adventures together!
So good to see all is well. Man, I don’t know how you do it! You both are just busy, busy, busy! The articles are great, and the interview on RR was awesome as well. GREAT JOB! You are truly an amazing person and the best father I think I know!
wow, you did pack it in on that trip! Of course, now my inquiring mind wants to know what may come of those mysterious meetings…whatever it is, I hope everything works out beautifully for you and Madeline! You deserve all the best.
I sure hope you can find some time to catch us up on the last month sometime soon!!!
Hello Matt, hope all is well in your world…
You made my heart hurt today when you mentioned the smiles that Liz is missing these days. The hardest part for me when reading your blog is knowing that Liz doesn’t get to watch Maddie grow up and see all of the good you are doing. As a Mommy, I know that she would be bursting with pride, regarding both Miss Maddie, and YOU.
I know that you will continue to keep swimming…there is TOO much good that is coming out of this, for you to stop. As usual, thank you for reminding me of how lucky I am to be able to see each day with my little rays of sunshine.
ALSO, I love the wake up routine for Miss M…the smiles and laughter in the morning is the purest, most beautiful form of joy, isn’t it?
I love that you take her with you no matter where you go.
And I mean Liz, too.
You’re awesome! That’s great that she’ll be forever your #1 priortiy and anyone that wants time needs to accept the pkg deal! Way to go! Because you will always be Maddy’s everything too
That’s great that 2009 will be an amazing year for you and Maddy! Greater things to come! I’m so happy for you and Maddy 
XO Is it a book deal? Wow! I’d definitely purchase it!
Seriously I can hardly make a trip to Target and to get gas without it feeling like a major production with my baby! I dont know how you and Maddy do it but you both should be commended daily for all you do!
Ohh, sounds so much fun. And arent you the mysterious one!
Seriously, I am ready for a nap just reading what you and Maddy do in one day! I am a stay-at-home mommy and get tired just getting Noah outside for a little playtime in our cul-de-sac! I can’t wait to hear about all the new stuff that’s going on with you….all those meetings must mean something’s brewing! Love you Maddy….hugs from us here in Ohio!
I think Liz would be happy to see how well BOTH of you are doing. Your daughter is lovely and happy and growing so quickly, and you are providing her with an awesome father.
Your trip to NYC sounds busy busy!
life altering new york meetings huh?
that sounds exciting.
although I am sure “life altering new york meetings” could technically mean any wide assortment of things…leading my mind down a somewhat ignoble- fun and sleazy path.. but that’s me.
As long as the “altering” isn’t PR attempts at creating ‘Matt’, the new smarmy-hipster…
…than good on ya.
heh
It is nice you let that beautiful girl of yours grace so much of our world.. we can always stand for such improvements!
hope you are well Matt- HF
Seriously, you are the BEST Dad! I loved the People article and had a friend record the Rachel Ray show, can’t wait to watch it.
Maddy seems like an excellent little traveler
Im looking forward to see whats in store for you guys in
the future. It was so great to hear that Maddy is your number one priority now and forever. I hope that one day
i can meet you and Maddy. I know i’ve said this alot but you inspire me so much.
Thinking of you and Liz.
Best Wishes from the OK.
I know it must be a seriously hard job to have Madeline along on all your adventures but I am so very proud of you for doing it. My Mom drug me everywhere, she never left me with a sitter, etc.. She always had us in tow. I’m just flat out proud that you incorporate her into your everyday life. I know it may make things a little bit hard to get things done but you get WAY more done than most people would. If you ever doubt yourself and your abilities, go back and read your posts. You are way stronger than you think. Keep it up, you are an inspiration, now and always!!
I’ve been reading your blog for a bit now, but haven’t got around to commenting. You truly inspire me.. I’m not a single mom, but my husband has been deployed pretty much all of our daughter’s life (She’s about to be 13 months). So I’ve been doing it all on my own, but it seems like you’re doing a TON better than I could ever do. I wish nothing but the best for you and beautiful Madeline. She’s lucky to have such a great father..keep doing what you’re doing and everything will be alright. (Well, not alright..because Liz isn’t there.. but as good as it can be
)
What a beautiful eyes Maddy…
)..
u still luk cute eventhough u open ur eyes like that ( I don’t know that mean u angry coz waiting daddy or u tired?
i love ur chubby cheek with that red colour..so cutee..
u know Maddy if i wanna have that red colour i have to use blush on first hehe..
mwaah for Maddy
Dear Matt-When do you sleep? Also, your luck isn’t running out on the airplanes she’s just getting a little bigger. They get more restless as they get bigger. She’s going to be very flexible though because of all of the traveling that you do with her. As always, awesome job Daddy.
Come visit Ohio!! Stay with us & meet all your Ohio fans – you’re a freakin’ celebrity in the Midwest!!
Miss you…
WHEW! Just reading how busy you were made me a bit tired! lol Of course I’m already exhausted from my 6month old son. Keeps me up all day and night. He is teething. Joy! LOL Sounds like you are doing great, as always and little Madeline is as cute as ever!
oh matt,
i’m losing all hope… you’re such a horrible dad. somebody rescue that poor child, she’s not having any fun at all. plus you’re killing us with all this vagueness. somebody stop this madd(y)ness…
holy fucking shit. i blame it on the quick scrolly mouse but i meant my comment to go with your latest vid… i know you won’t take my comments wrong, but i seriously don’t want the wrath of some of your creeps. they’re tough cookies sometimes
Wow you guys really get around
Love the picture of Maddie, the one with the look. That glazed over look that all kids get when they are done. Her eyes are so blue.
The whole flight thing… you might be at that point where it’s worth the extra $ to just buy the second seat, bring the car seat, and just buckle her down.
Kids tend to be less jumpy in a place they are used to being in.
hi..
i read bout ur fam’s story in 1 of magazine @ Surabaya city, Indonesia. so amazing!! too rare 2 find single parent (esp:father) like u who want 2 struggle through life. ur daughter so lucky 2 have a daddy lake u.. 
n ur wife so pretty..
ur story make the people become stronger than before..
God bless u n everything was happen in ur life bcoz God has big plan 4 u.. :p
Gosh Blarm It! Now I wanna know what’s goin’ on… Color me enticed.
You should add “non-interested hipsters” to that list too!
Matt I never got to read the ‘People’. My mom has a subscription at her business and I went visiting thinking I could read it and someone had walked off with THAT particular copy. I’m sure they took it for your story!
Hi, Matt….
I haven’t written in ages with all that has been going on in my life. I think my sister, Patty Bratten, has told you about my nephew. I have been in N.C. for over two weeks and don’t know when I will go back home again.
Anyway………..I saw you and Maddie on Rachel Show. She was adorable and you looked very handsome.
You are STILL doing a great job and Liz is smiling down on you and Maddie. You are an amazing man. Karen-Patrick Huey
ps…your and your friends prayers for my nephew would be appreciated.