we’re back in los angeles.
the last week was an interesting one to say the least.
mexico on saturday.
objectives accomplished.
fun:
relaxation:
a birthday party celebration:
some tears:
and some reminiscence.
all in a beautiful place.
(more on all of this soon)…
then on thursday we went north.
to chicago.
to meet oprah.
we taped an episode that will air sometime in the future.
i will let you know when that happens.
(had to mention this now because a few people were on to me).
then back to mexico on saturday for 27 hours.
then a flight home.
everything here is the same.
something, someone is still missing.
i expected nothing less.
just didn’t think it would hit so hard.
(photos here).
249 Comments
motherfucking OPRAH! Dude, you know you’re big when she doesn’t pull that Skype bullshit – you actually WENT to Chicago. I need to know how she smelled, Matt. I need to know!!!
OMG OPRAH! YAY! Way to go Matt & Maddy! Congrats! Loving the pics!
Good to have you back. She’s as gorgeous at one as she was at zero.
Glad that y’all got some time to relax in Mexico. Maddy looks so happy in her very cute birthday outfit. Some reminiscence every now and then can be a good thing. I can’t imagine what it is like for you when all of the memories come flooding back. I’ll be looking for your appearance with Oprah. I’m sure Maddy stole the show! By the way… I am very impressed with your fashion choices for Maddy. I love the outfit she is wearing on the plane! I say this a lot…but I don’t ever want you to forget… Good job Daddy!
heather said it first — fucking oprah! it was just a matter of time you know…
your pix are gorgeous. thanks for sharing. so glad you were where you needed to be.
oprah, hmm? that’s super exciting!!
& Mexico looks amazing. glad you guys had fun! hope your 25th wasn’t too bad.
WOW! Oprah! Wow. Oprah aside…glad you were able to get away last week and that you had a good trip! Beautiful photos as always!
I have followed your blog for a few months now. What a beautiful little girl. The love you have for her shines out in every picture. Thank you for sharing your journey with us.
I’m gonna just go with what Heather said, cause being on Oprah = pretty freakin awesome. I hope it gets the word out even more for the foundation.
Hope you both had a great time in Mexico (by the looks of the pictures, it seems you did – the one of Maddy “crazy with sugar” is cracking me up! ), and that it brought you some measure of peace when you needed it.
It’s okay, Maddy, sometimes you have sombreros and sometimes you have tears. Either way it’s all v. exciting. Happy Birthday, pretty lady!
love the pics…. she is getting so big!
whats your secret on energy and do you workout, etc? I’m worn out between one child and two fur kids! take care and most importantly, welcome back!
I’m happy you both made it home safely!
I’ve been giggling for days about the sugar high kicking in photo of Maddy!! (ya, I check your flikr page and twitter when I want to see what you kids are up to)
Good work on year number 1 Maddy’s Dad!!
You are such a cool dad who doesn’t obsess about your daughter eating sand. Congrats on the Oprah appearance.
She looked scared in that first pic, but super psyched in most of the others. Hope Oprah was fun!
Happy Birthday to your little princess. She has such a joyous aura surrounding her, even in just pictures. <3
Oprah = big time.
Hugs to you and M. I’m glad this week is finally over for you.
Your daughter is beautiful. So much beauty has come out of something so sad, but it would have been that way if Liz had been here or not. I hope what is set in motion helps your lives….and of course, having good taste in art and music doesn’t hurt!! Keep sharing that with Maddy and everyone around her. That’s awesome about Oprah…
Wow, Oprah is soooooo lucky to have met you guys. I can’t wait to see the show. Maddie is an absolute doll.
Fantastic. I wondered why Maddy was springing for business class.
I would like to be one of those to state that I read you before you were famous. As if that makes any fucking difference whatsoever.
OMG!!! she’s getting so big already!
esp. on that 2nd photo.
belated happy birthday maddy!
glad to know you both had a great time in mexico and you made it through those 2 worse days.
oh, and can’t wait for that oprah . hehe
Maddy is such a doll! Makes me want to squeeze her! She is just too cute for words and looks more and more like Liz! You’re going to have to kick some guys asses when she’s older!
Can’t wait to see you on Oprah!
You are an amazing guy! You’ve done so much in a year and I KNOW Liz is smiling at you thinking of how proud you are making her!
Holy crap…OPRAH?! You’ve been holding out on us! I can’t wait to see it! I got giddy like it was ME meeting Oprah when I read that. I need to get a life.
Glad you had a good trip! I was thinking of you guys!
Now you are officially super-famous! We have Oprah delay here in Australia so I will have to wait damn it.
That photo of Maddie perched up on the seat with the big proud smile is SO gorgeous. It gave me a HUGE smile.
What beautiful pictures! I’m glad you two had such an incredible adventure once again in Mexico. No doubt Liz was looking over the both of you during this time.
And jeez…I can only imagine the smile on her face knowing that you and Maddy are going to be on Oprah! Now, I’m not a guy who normally watches the show…but I think I’ll have to tune in for you.
Madeline is just breathtaking, such a divine little baby. Can’t wait to watch your episode … we get Oprah down here in Australia.
Love to you Matt, you really have done inspiring things.
How cool is THAT?? OPRAH! I totally agree with Gale in MN: Oprah is lucky you said yes. I can’t type her name without it looking wrong. Odd. Happy Birthday Maddy!!
i just read that you met Oprah and it’s not even what I want to comment about.
Something,someone is still missing hit me like a slap in the face. Your one liners always bring me back to your reality with you. I truly can not imagine losing the love of my life and everytime I think about it happening to you the teary eyes show themselves.
You have heard it many times and even several times from me but you did an amazing job with Maddy her first year. I’m sure Liz is proud.
Glad a good trip was had by all. You needed it.
(Can’t wait to see the Oprah appearance!)
Oh my God, Oprah?!?!?! No shit….WOW! I am so thrilled she got to meet one of my favorite bloggers and his daughter. Hope she helps get word of the foundation out there.
Wow – Oprah, really? That’s amazing! Speaking of amazing… Madeline in her cute little monogrammed dress!
Been thinking about you guys this weekend. Sounds like you had a good trip.
Also – OPRAH? Holy shit!
Oprah!!! Holy shit! Dude, you are huge.
Welcome home.
OMG! Oprah!! WOW!! Maddie is still such a doll! You’re still in my prayers!
Love, Mere
Welcome home! Oprah huh? I was wondering about that!
Can’t wait to see it!
Hey, welcome home Matt and Maddy. Getting to see your beautiful pictures is, for me, the next best thing to being away on a trip! I really enjoy the subjects, the settings, the details…you do a great job! You look so *in your element* in Mexico. Good on you for taking care. Love your smile and your pretty little girl. Maddy is never blase about travel, is she? I suspect she enjoys it all, is really curious, interested and happy 98 per cent of the time. I am very pleased you were on Oprah and that she got to meet you two in person. I hope this kicks your Foundation into a higher gear than you even thought about!! However, I especially hope you are able to give us more notice than Rachel Ray’s event….I’m not sure I can luck out again and stumble onto your appearance like I did last time!! Lol. Keep on keeping on : )
I am glad you had a good week. She looks so grown up. Miss and love you both. xoxo.
WOW! Oprah!
I can’t wait to see it! Most of your first stranger friends like me, knew this would happen. So very proud of you!
I will be looking forward to seeing you guys on Oprah! I’m glad to see you back home safe and sound. I know it’s hard getting back to the daily grind. Maddy’s going to look at the pictures from you trip one day and see how much fun you guys had. She’s lucky to have you for a daddy!
Welcome back home. Wow, Oprah!!! That is ::awesomesauce:: Now we gotta get you on The Ellen Show. That would be really sweet.
It looks like you both made the most of your trip to Mexico (not to mention the little side trip to Chicago – wow). Madeline looks so grown up, and truly breathtakingly beautiful.
Just to rub it in – you are doing an amazing job with Madeline and really showing her the meaning of love and family. Great job Matt.
C’mon Oprah…here!! I would have loved to go to that show! Well, I will look forward to watch it. Glad you guys had a great time. Good luck getting back into the routine!!
Awesome!!! Oprah! That’s awesome!!! Looks like she loved Mexico!!!!
Glad you were able to have some R&R time, though I’m sure parts of the trip must have been quite difficult for you.
Maddie continues to be gorgeous. Truly, she is just beautiful! Looks like she had a wonderful birthday.
Oprah—awesome! Can’t wait to see the episode!
First of all, I’m glad that you had a wonderful trip and were able to do all of the things that you needed to do. That’s most important.
SO excited to watch! Don’t forget to let us know when it’s going to be on!! I’ll make sure all my peeps watch. 
Secondly….holy shit…OPRAH??? I was secretly hoping that you’d get to do her show.
Haven’t checked out all the pics yet, but the plane pics where Maddy is in a giant seat, were you on a private jet? Or did Oprah fly you first class? Awesome!
I know your hope is not to be famous but to spread the word about your foundation so you can help others and there may be no more perfect outlet than Oprah – she certainly has a large following! I hope you guys enjoyed the experience and were able to tell the seven people who don’t yet know about the foundation what it’s all about!
Lots of love from the MN!
It’s tough wishing things would change, but knowing they’ll be the same… Hang in there!
What a beautiful little girl!
And you know what, she looks very, very happy.
You’re doing an amazing job
Shut the front door!! You’re going to be on Oprah?! That’s fucking sweet.
I’m happy your trip went well. And so starts year 2. Congrats for you and the Liz Logelin Foundation on your Oprah appearance. Here’s hoping the raised profile of the Foundation and the Oprah effect result in a lot of funding for a lot of good work.
OPRAH…wow. Does she look fake (I always think she must look fake because of all the makeup she wears)! Sorry that was such a weird question…I haven’t had my caffeine yet!! YOU GUYS ROCK!!
oprah? oprah?? o m f g – OPRAH! i figured it would have to be something pretty serious to take you two away from mexico for two days….it doesn’t get any bigger than oprah in the world of television! i mean – rachael ray was pretty awesome….but holy crap – this is oprah frickin’ winfrey!! congrats – you deserve the props for your amazing blog (though as so many have said before – i wish the circumstances could be different…it feels a little weird congratulating you knowing part of all this includes liz being gone….but as you have said before…this is your story now… and you are kicking ass with it)
i am afraid it is going to be harder for a while now…..there was so much anticipation with the anniversary…and it has come and gone…and now what? liz is still gone. that’s what – and that totally and completely sucks.
keep on keeping on…and i will be here reading all about it – cheering you and maddy on. i can’t wait to see you on oprah – gale is right. she was SO lucky to meet you and maddy.
Wow Oprah dude! Did she say your name ‘Here is Matttt!”
Yeah let us know in advance when it will show, I would love to dvr it and see little madeline! The pictures are awesome. It looks like her birthday was fun and with an awesome cake nonetheless.
Wow, Matt! You and Maddie on Oprah! So cool- please keep us posted when you’ll be on. I don’t always get to watch, b/c Eric’s usually waking up from his nap right at that time, but I will at least remember to DVR it. So glad you had a great time in Mexico. Maddie just is incredibly beautiful- more and more beautiful everyday, as my dad would say. So many of us were thinking of you last week, all week, knowing that no matter where you were it wouldn’t be that easy. A geographical change, however helpful, is hard to come home from. Thinking of you and Maddie and sending good thoughts your way.
Oh my goodness, you met God (Oprah, lol)? That is awesome Matt and Maddie!! I can’t wait to see that show!! I’m glad you guys had a relaxing time in Mexico. Happy belated birthday Maddie!! it’s hard to think that she is already a year old. Take care!!!
Wow,oprah can’t wait to watch the show ,saw the photos on flickr …all i can say is they are awesome
I assumed that this past week would be ridiculously difficult. The fact that even “you didn’t think it would hit so hard” saddens me terribly (coming from a complete stranger). What a crazy life…chillin on the beach one minute and then hangin with Oprah the next. All of this while experiencing the one year milestones in your life. I really don’t know how you do it all, but I’m glad you do.
Wow – Oprah?? I was watching her show a few weeks ago and actually thought how you and Madeline needed to be on her show. How great!! Can’t wait to see it!
Been thinking of you both so much as I know this hasn’t been an easy time. Madeline is as cute as ever!!!
Oh, come on. We all knew it was only a matter of time before Oprah came calling!
Cannot wait to see you and Maddy on the show. Welcome back from Mexico!
Matt, the photos from Mexico are beautiful, as always. Hope you and Maddy had some much needed r & r! Looks like it was paradise! Congrats on Oprah…will stay tuned.
OMG, Maddy with her birthday cake….she is precious! I wish I got that excited about things!
Glad you had a good time and that all of the flights went well.
FUCKING OPRAH!!! HOLY SHIT!
Glad you are home, so we can get updates. Wishing you were still in a beautiful place… for your peace. I’m sorry that you even had to face this milestone, but I’m glad its in the past now.
Blessings to you and Madeline
Fabulous! I guess that interesting email that you twittered us about was to see Oprah…..very cool. I hope all this exposure helps your foundation. Your not doing this for fame, as this will never bring your Liz back and I know that is all you wish for. Rock on….
Oprah…she must’ve loved Maddie…who wouldn’t. Sorry your time away was interrupted…but I bet it was worth it. Hope you had a chance to???? do whatever you wanted to do. Again the picutres are beautiful. Please keep us updated as to when the show will air.
I can’t believe I “know” someone who’s gonna be on Oprah. That is SO cool! Let us know when it’s gonna air, for sure.
Congratulations Matt. You’ve navigated your way through year one with strength, love, humor and generousity. You’ve taught so much to so many.
Madeline shines. She simply shines and that speaks volumes for what you’ve accomplished this year inspite of your heartbreak.
As the others have said it is awesome about Oprah. Hope you guys had a great time in Mexico and that it helped you to get away.
You are lucky to have missed our snowstorm in Spring we had Saturday night.
i agree with gale. yeah, oprah is lucky to have met y’all. maddy is beautiful, riding in style there in first class!! how awesome. hope you had a spectacular week in the midst of some spectacular remembering. bitter and sweet.
such is life, i guess.
Pictures of Madeline — what a great way to start the week.
I just said to a friend yesterday that I think you’ll be on Oprah next…didn’t think it would be this soon. Can’t wait to see the show!
Glad you had a great time on your trip!! Madeline is gorgeous.
Christine D.
Christine D.
Wow, Matt- Oprah! That’s great! I hope Mexico provided what you needed, and that being on Oprah will provide even more (on a totally different level of course)! Her show actually is shown here in Greece, so I can’t wait to see it! Once, again, give lots of kisses to beautiful Maddy for me.
OMG! You’re going to be on Oprah! I’m so excited for you guys. Glad to see that you’re back home safe and sound. Hope your week in Mexico was just what you needed. Maddy looks like she enjoyed her first birthday. Well done Daddy!
OMG, I can’t wait to see you guys on Oprah. The pictures were all just beautiful, thanks for sharing those with us. I also wanted to say thanks for letting us all into your life over this past year. I started reading probably in early April, and I feel like I know you guys, even though you don’t know me. That must be a strange sensation…having so many who know you, that you don’t know. Anyway, thanks for letting us into your life and sharing your innermost private thoughts and feelings. It’s been a combination of ups and downs with the bonus of watching Madeline grow and become more and more beautiful each day. I’d like to think that what you’ve shared has benefitted so many people in so many ways and Liz would be proud.
Now please give us ample notice to watch the show!!!!
She’s so damn adorable!
Congrats on the Oprah trip. Totally kickass.. I’m sure every housewife in America is jealous of you meeting the O.
I woke up this morning and thought about this post first thing…
what went through my mind?
First you have Robot Pissed.
Next you discovered Medicine Pissed.
And now Maddy has given you Sombrero Pissed!!
<3
LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the pictures!!! She is absolutely adorable!!! It looks like you guys had a great time! And OPRAH!!!, I’m jealous! I can’t wait to hear more about your trip!! Glad you made it home safe and that Maddy had a fabulous first birthday!!!
oprah?? holy buggers. Uff-Da!
I love the water and hammock pics. So amazing! Has anyone mentioned lately what an awesome kid Maddy is? I mean falling asleep in all those places.. you are one lucky dad!
OMG OPRAH!!! That’s so Freakin awesome!!! I laughed so hard at what heather… (your 1st comment) said!! Its so true~ I was looking at your flickr photos b4 I noticed you had a post and thought “is that an Oprah bear??”
I am so Happy for you Both! I hope this really helps your foundation!!! You know she is so freakin powerful, seriously people will eat shit if she said too!!! (not me..lol) But No Kidding, I use to work at Nordstrom and if she had a product on her show we had to be prepared for madness and at least 1000 phone calls!! Always sold out and went on back order for at least 6 months!! So congrats to you and Maddy!! Keep us updated on when it airs~
Now on to Mexico….I am so happy you got what you both needed from there~ Maddy is 1!! Hip hip hooray!!! The pictures were great updates while you were gone!!! (from twitter and flickr, thanks) You two are so adorable!! Now back to reality…booo!! Life goes on, same as usual…but you two are never alone!! You have amazing family and friends~ And don’t forget us strangers
Holy smokes – Oprah! Wowsers. Can’t wait to see you guys on tv once again! I bet this will do wonders for the foundation.
The pictures from Mexico are amazing, as usual. Maddy looks so full of joy. You are doing an amazing job.
Oprah? OPRAH?!
Don’t forget about your stranger friends when you’re famous. This is going to do so much for Liz’s Foundation, wow.
Your blog has become as important as my morning coffee. I stumbled upon it casually and now rely on it to start my day. Madeline is perfect and beautiful. Liz’s smile reveals a fun loving personality that must be missed by everyone who knew her. Your strength is inspiring. Everyone has a story. Thank you for sharing yours. Keep smiling!
Oprah?!! That’s so freaking cool! Can’t wait to watch!
The pic of Maddy with the cake is adorable! Hope you guys had a great time!
Matt- welcome home! Can’t wait to read more about Mexico. I am a little jealous- I’ve only been to Mexico for one day. I love the photos on flickr. She is going to love them all when she gets older. I hope Maddy had a great first birthday!
Maddy in her dress and jeans makes me want it in adult size. Dang she is adorable! Congrats on Oprah! What an incredible journey you two have been on!
Matt,
Liz will always hold a huge room in your heart. But someday, God willing, you will meet another who will begin to build her own room. Her room will take nothing away from Liz’s room. Liz’s room will take nothing away from hers. When that time happens, just remember this…”Remember the good….accept the bad….and Move On.” I pray for you and Maddy always.
Oprah!? Wow. Congratulations. I feel like a know a celebrity!
You guys came to Chicago and we didn’t get to have a playdate with all Maddy’s Chitown friends????? Not fair!
So excited about Oprah. I knew it! I knew it!
Love the cake photo! I can’t wait to hear more about the trip, to look at the photos when I get home from work and see the Oprah episode. I will echo everyone else: Holy shit! Oprah! You’re in the big leagues now!
Glad you had such a great time (for the most part) in Mexico!
Love her Birthday cake picture!!! Can’t wait to see the result of the Oprah interview. Exciting stuff!!
Madeline is awesome. That’s all.
Oh Matt…Oprah!!! That is awesome..I knew it was just a matter of time. Is that what the weird email was about??
I loved looking at the pictures from your trip. As always, Maddy looks perfect!
I hope your trip is just what you needed. You might need a vacation from your vacation this week.
Thanks for sharing Madeline with all of us!
We thought of you and Madeline on both of your big days last week. I hope your time away was peaceful.
Oprah! Wow! Can’t wait to see it – I wonder what type of jewelery Madeline “borrowed” from her? Did you tell her to go for something with diamonds and not just a wooden bracelet like on her last talk show appearance?
OPRAH!? I never even watch but to see you & Maddy I will totally watch. And hell yeah, I hope that you get tons of donations to For the Love of Liz with being on Oprah!!
I KNEW IT!!!! If you look back at my past comments, I called it! Yeah, I am done bragging, I will stop being full of myself. Seriously, Oprah is cool but the reason why sucks! I am glad you got away for awhile. I hope you were able to relax and have fun. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers, it sounds like this week is starting off a little rough. Take care!
Oprah Fucking Winfrey.
I can’t fucking believe it.
Welcome home!!! We missed you.
Mexi-pix are GORGEOUS!!!
What a wonderful trip, beautiful pictures, gorgeous and happy Maddy, and on top of that Oprah! Congratulations Matt and Maddy! YOU BOTH DESERVE IT. I was so much looking forward to this new post, but let me tell you that you made my day the day you posted a picture of Maddy on the airplane wearing the dress I sent for her, WOW, I felt honored, I even woke up the next morning thinking of that, not knowing that you were on your way to see Oprah, I’m so happy you liked it, I know you have a wonderful taste when it comes to Maddy’s clothing, so meeting you standards was not an easy task. I thought about you guys yesterday knowing you would be back home, but forgetting how hard that would be on you, just wanted to tell you that you and Maddy are in my prayers, I’m always thinking of you both, wishing each day when you wake up to your sunshine, you get the strenght you so much need, wishing one day your pain disappears and only beautiful and calming memories come to your mind and heart when you think of Liz. Hugs.
I am so glad you had this vacation, Madeline looks so happy, so loved.
It’s weird, but in a way, for a long time, I just knew Oprah would happen. I knew if she heard about you, she would get you on the show. It is still a HOLY SHIT thing, though. But I know you and Maddy were awesome, and it is great for the foundation.
Matt, you are doing an amazing job.
Well, butter my butt and call me a biscuit; Oprah? She was lucky to meet you two. Oh Matt, better times ahead. Glad you are home!
Wow, I didn’t know you were going to Oprah. Look forward to seeing the segment.
I hope your time away was what you needed. The pictures were great. Maddy is a doll & I loved her birthday outfit.
What beautiful photographs ~ I have admired your inspiring story and what you have done for your beautiful daughter!
Isn’t it amazing that when you leave,sometimes, somewhere in your mind, you might return to something different. . . I wish that could be.
Rachael, Oprah and all of those people will help bring donations in to the foundation – which is a phenominal dedication to Liz and your generosity – that is awesome! And to be completly honest, many many months ago, when I first met you, I emailed Oprah to tell her that you are someone she should talk to. I am sure that my email had nothing to do with it, but glad to hear that she can lend a hand to your goals. We love you!
I have had a feeling that you would be meeting Oprah! Happy Birthday Madeline. You rock, Matt.
Thanks for sharing your photos. Maddy is such a cutie!
You are such a great Dad and she will be so thankful for all you have done for her. I bet LIz is just smiling down on the two of you.
After the Big O I am sure your blog following will increase 100 fold. I agree with others that Oprah is lucky to meet you and Maddy. I hope it does wonders for the foundation as well.
Thanks for being such an inspiration!
Damn that was some lil detour! Oprah…I was wondering if she would ever call you guys….holy shit. Guess I will be recording that to go with my Rachel Ray show lol
Seems like you two had a nice lil getaway and I’m glad. Can’t wai tto hear more about it.
I’m sorry that it still hurt so bad coming back…not that I thought it wouldn’t, I mean it doesn’t just magically go away after the 1 year mark right? That would be fucking fabulous though, if it did. Someone should work on that. I’m still sorry for your pain. <3 <3 <3
xoxoxoxo,
Tricia and Bella in the So.Cal
So glad that you all had a great trip to Mexico! And OPRAH!!! Hell yeah!! That is so fucking awesome! As lots of others have said, this will do wonders for Liz’s foundation!!
Love all the wonderful pics, Maddy is such a beautiful baby!
I knew it! I wrote Oprah about you months ago b/c I knew your story would touch so many (more) people…now with the foundation…Oh my gosh, hopefully this will bring in a ton of donations!
I thought about you and Maddy a lot while you were gone, the updates on twitter were great and let us all know that you were both doing okay. Maddy is beautiful and it looks like she had a lot of fun…she is the big 01 now!
happy to hear from you and thanks for sharing!
Thoughts of you and Maddy last week. I hope it was a peaceful trip for you.
Congrats on Oprah I can’t wait to hear about it.
THE O called??!! Matt you are officially the father of a Super Star…
Oh, yeah and you are pretty awesome yourself!! I can imagine Oprah was as impressed with you guys as all of us creeps are.
So glad you made it home, as usual you managed to stay busy AND take great pictures of you and Miss Maddie. Hope it was a great vaca…take care!
Oprah is lucky to have met you and Madeline. Welcome back to CA. Your pics are amazing.
Just keep moving forward, eventually it gets a little easier. Surely Madeline brings you joy everyday. Hold on to that, with all you’ve got. She is a treasure.
Welcome Home Matt Maddy, Hope you had a great time in mexico. Happy 1st B-day Maddy
LOVED the pictures, more amazing ones of Madeline and the two of you. What a nice, relaxing trip-you both needed it. Always in my thoughts and prayers….
OPRAH???!? Frakkin’ OPRAH?!?!? Holy cow! I bet Madeline had her completely wrapped around her adorable finger : )
“There are things that we don’t want to happen but have to accept, things we don’t want to know but have to learn, and people we can’t live without but have to let go. ”
Glad you had a good trip, congrats on Oprah.
While being on Oprah is amazingly exciting, I sure the fact that it was a day (or 2) after the anniversary of Liz’s death was amazingly hard. I’m positive you’d give up Oprah in a nanosecond if it meant Liz was still here.
You’re handling this very, very well and I’m sure returning to your house was a tough one. I wish I knew what to say to ease that pain but I can’t. Nobody can.
Yet, yet…. I look at those amazing photos of Maddy on your vacation and the shots of you, too. You both look happy.
And that’s a good thing. Liz would want it — no, need it to be — that way.
I also noticed your repeated mantra: we’re where we need to be.
And so you are.
Hugs and prayers to both of you.
she wore that dress on oprah as well…i just never changed her out of it.
Oprah!! Wow, can’t wait to see the episode. Glad you guys are home and I really hope you were able to find fun and peace while away.
WOW–Oprah! Thank You as always for sharing your life with all us stranger friends.
You truly are a wonderful father, Madeline is so lucky to have all these treasured moments. You’re an inspiration Matt, Take care…
Matt I Live in Los Angeles where do shop for maddys clothes i have a 16 month old and 2 yr old she always looks so cute
WOW…Oprah!! That is awesome!! Can’t wait to see the episode…WTG Matt and Maddy…I am sure you guys stole the show!! What great exposure for the foundation for sure!!
Welcome back you two!! The pictures, as always, were beautiful…looks like you guys had a nice relaxing break being where “you needed to be”…and I know Liz was with you all the steps of the way!! And you made it through the 2 worst days of March…..can’t wait to hear all about the Oprah show and the rest of your vacation. Thansk again for allowing all of us “strangers” to continue along your journey with you….I know we were all going through withdrawl while you guys were away!! Glad you made it home safe and sound and that Maddy had a great first birthday!!
I love Maddy’s one year outfiit! Where did you get it?
WOW, what an awesome FIRST Birthday for Maddy!!
She is so beautiful.
I just found your site and have been reading it for the past few hours.
Take care
Welcome home! Looks like Maddy had a wonderful birthday. Can’t wait to hear more about your trip and hear more about Oprah!
Hi Matt,
I’m Carolyn, I met you in the airport in Cancun. Sorry if I looked so awestruck (dumbstruck?), I couldn’t believe it wass really you and Madeline! There were so many things I wanted to say to you. You are so inspiring and such an amazing Dad. Maddy is even more beautiful in person than in photos. I sasw her sleeping on the chair, but didn’t realize it was you guys. I thought she looked like the most peaceful little traveler asleep in the airport. I realized after we talked that it was the “week”. The birthday week, the one year…
It made me so sad. How fast a year flies.
I also realized I must be about as pregnant as Liz was when she gave birth to Madeline. It’s amazing how much she has grown in a year. Congrats to you guys for the Oprah thing. That is a big deal! I hope you had a relaxing vacation. You two are truly amazing and just know that you have another stranger friend in Southern Cal that loves your blog.
It was great meeting you! Good luck with everything.
-Carolyn
I’ve kept up with your story through the media, but actually have just started reading your blog. Spent the majority of yesterday reading and crying. You are AMAZING. What you’re doing for Madeline is indescribable and she’ll cherish this forever I’m sure. Keep up the good work daddy.
Congratulations on Oprah!!!!
you are certainly a Wonderful example- One day at a time. Sometimes celebrations are filled with memories of lost souls but that makes them more special in my opinion.
Happy Birthday Madeline and Happy ‘anniversary’ to you both.
Wow – can’t wait to see the Oprah interview. One question for you….where did Madeline’s birthday outfit come from…..it is just too cute!
Congrats on Oprah!
Matt and Maddy,
Glad to know you made it safe back home. Loved all the pictures of Maddy, especially her b-day dress! She is as gorgeous as her mommy! Can’t wait to hear more and see you on OPRAH!
Take care,
Debbie
SHUT UP! OPRAH! I’m sure that had to be a surreal experience. So excited for you….Oprah’s magic touch will have For the Love of Liz innundated with donations. Your good work continues. What a rollarcoaster this past week must have been. Glad you are home safe and sound.
So glad to hear that you guys are home safe and sound! I hope that the Oprah interview produces LOTS of support and donations for the foundation. I can’t wait to see it. You and Maddy are such fabulous people!!! Thanks for allowing all of us share in your journey.
OPRAH!! Yay! I’m so excited for you guys! What an amazing opportunity for the organization. I can’t wait to see the episode!
Oprah huh…talk about exposure, hope the site can handle the airing day. WOW! How cool for the foundation.
Love Maddy’s dress and jeans, it has become her signature look!
Glad you had a good time in Mexico, hope the bug issue was resolved.
Really wish there was a way to reach through this computer and give you a hug. Hope that the hurting continues to sting a little less each day.
Almost a year of following your blog over lunch — sitting here at my desk, crying less than I used to in the beginning, but sill just as amazed.
And as far as the Oprah thing goes, I was so NOT onto you… I figured you guys had traveled an hour north in Mexico somewhere. I guess my first thought just was not that you went north to Chicago to be on Oprah!!
Your vacation looks sooo relaxing. Maddy just gets more beautiful and sweet…I always thought to myself that Oprah was taking too long. People and Rachael Ray hopped on the bandwagon first! I hope I run into you two one day.
I’m glad you’re getting so much positive press these days, it will really help Liz’s foundation get HUGE! I can’t wait to see the segment on Oprah.
Maddy looks so stinkin adorable on the plane and wow, first class? The only first class I can afford are postage stamps.
Stay well.
Congrats on Oprah! Now on to Ellen…had suggested you and Madeline as someone they should have on! (through their sites) Im sure many people did the same but its exciting anyway!
People bring up a good point… make sure the foundation’s website is prepared for the huge RUSH of Oprah viewers that are sure to visit it after the show! I’m sure you have probably thought of that already, but as a frequent Oprah watcher, I can attest to the fact that everything she touches turns to gold. Hope that holds true for you and Maddy, too.
HOly shit! Oprah! Awesome! But im sure you;d much rather not have it that way! Your pics are amazing as usual and so glad you got to get away!
maddy and that colorful hammock.. oh, so my style..
congrats on Oprah! good stuff….
~g
That’s SO awesome you went to Oprah! I have emailed their show several times telling them that they have to have you on there! I bet a ton of other people have as well. I can’t wait to see you and Maddy on the show!
I agree with the above poster-Ellen needs to have you on her show! You’re amazing, Matt! All the lives you’re touching is incredible! I also can’t wait to hear (and see) more about the trip to Mexico!
Glad you made it back safely!
I knew it was only a matter of time until you made it to Oprah. Way to go!
OMG that is awesome! I emailed Oprah’s webiste a while back alerting her show to you…hope that helped. Dude, you need to let me know when you will be back in Chi-Town! I would love to grab a drink or coffee. Maybe bring the kids to meet you and Maddy! Cannot wait for a vacay update!
Oprah! So awesome! So great for the foundation! Your photos of the trip and her first birthday are spectacular! Looks like fun. Can’t wait to see when you two are on Oprah! Congrats!
I am not sure how you keep these things secret….seriously if Oprah wanted me on her show I would not be able to contain myself & would be telling everyone I know & dont know for that matter. How amazing. Cant wait to see the episode. I mailed you a little something today….not much…just somehting I saw that remided me of you. It looks like you had an amaxing time in Mexico. Hugs.
Happy birthday beautiful baby… and many thoughts for you, Matt.
Hi Matt…I don’t know if you got my email early on (amost a year ago now…but I never heard back from you)…but I had sent Oprah a letter requesting they highlight you months and months ago…I am glad they finally figured out how important your story and foundation is. I would love to keep in touch with you more often. I am in Phoenix (just a hop, skip and jump away) and just had a baby girl of my own!
Your cousin, Chantelle (Botkin), now Lassak
chantellelassak@gmail.com
Beautiful pictures of Madeline celebrating the big 1!
Hope your vacation was exactly what you needed.
OMG, Oprah, seriously awesome!
OMG! I can’t believe you 2 are gonna be on Oprah! That is freakin awesome!! I can’t wait to see the show! Glad you are back safe and that you had a great trip. Love the photos as always!
Glad you had a good time in Mexico…although I know it wasn’t all easy. Beautiful pics of Maddie…she is a gorgeous baby girl. Was looking at your pics on Flickr and noticed you had posted one that said Sloth or Anteater? I was recently in Mexico and inquired about what that creature is. They called it a “Mexican Racoon” but one of the ladies with us said she thought it was a COTIMUNDI. I looked it up when we returned home, and indeed, that it what it is. Can’t wait to see you on Oprah. Keep up keeping on….you are doing a great job!
Hi Matt: Welcome back home. Hey I just read your post about Oprah. That is great. I wrote to Oprah back in January and suggested that they do a show on you and also on my brother. I am happy for you Matt, I am just dumb founded that Oprah would not include my brother and his daughter Sophia in her show since he is going thru the same situation as you and the fact that they live in Chicago. My brother is having such a hard time with everything. He was suppose to take my niece on her first trip but he cancealed again. Like I said it is great that Oprah is doing this show and I am sure she is going to push Liz’s foundation and that will help alot of people. I think that is great but would of loved to get Jackie’s story out there too. Like I told you, you are keeping Liz alive thru your posts and foundation and I think that is so great just wish there was away we could keep Jackie alive too. Hey once again I am posting a link to her video maybe some of your readers will take a look at it. Matt were you able to look at it?
Rosann
http://www.onetruemedia.com/shared?p=786083f5ea3aa9a2227af5&skin_id=1704&utm_source=otm&utm_medium=text_url
Hey Matt & Maddy- Can’t wait to see you on OPRAH!
And BTW…what’s up w/ all the ‘1’s’ to the left of all the comments?!??
ok – i just want to say this, and please – no offense to anyone….
i think some people may wonder or ask, why matt? why all this attention? and they think…he is not the only one in this situation, this same thing has happened to many others, (as we have read through links and comments on matt’s blog)
my take on it is this – it’s matt’s blog, his writing, his choice to share his story in this way that has set him apart. not taking away from what anyone else has been through….but that is what makes matt’s story a little different. his amazing writing through his blog has captured thousands of minds and hearts around the world…and thus the attention from the media. like i read somewhere before…the readers came first, then the media (although the media has no doubt generated many more readers!)
and – he is doing it to help everyone else in a similiar situation through the foundation…i don’t think he could be any more caring or gracious about anything…just my 2 cents.
Congratulations on making it to the one year mark. I know it was the worst and the best year of your life. I am glad that Mexico was everything you needed it to be. The years really do get easier to “deal” with as time goes on, although you may not think so yet. Eventually it won’t seem so all consuming
I think Oprah could have waited until after your sabatical though. LOL Looking forward to seeing the show. And I usually don’t watch Oprah but I WILL make an exception this time.
I wondered the other day when Oprah was going to get wind of you.. I was totally uninterested in who was on, and thought how much I’d like to see you interviewed instead of them. I wonder if it was the day you where taping.
i posted a birthday present for maddy last week on her birthday. only way i could give her a present with out giving her a present. check it out if you get a chance. here ya go
ok – 2nd comment….
so let me get this straight….you were in mexico and left to go to chicgo to tape Oprah? then you went BACK to mexico for 27hrs…..then back home?!?!?!??? that’s crazy, matt!! lovely, lovely pictures…madeline is growing up so fast and beautiful!
Can’t wait to see the Oprah airing. I’m a huge fan, and was in the audience last week. Too bad I missed your taping, would have been amazing. Look at lil Maddy flying first class!
I knew Oprah would come calling!! I am a huge Oprah fan and a huge Matt, Liz and Madeline fan so It will be one of the most perfect hours of tv for me! I dvr ‘em all so I’ll catch it whenever it airs.
Oprah!! That’s amazing, can not wait to catch that show! Welcome home by the way! Love the pictures as always, Madeline looks so cute sitting in the airplane seat with her ever so big smile! As always God bless!
First thought… spoken out loud… to myself…
“NO FUCKING WAY”.
I love these pictures! Where is that water? I would love to go there! It looks heavenly. And, let me just say that last photo of Maddy on the plane is priceless. Look at that smile!! She is the happiest baby!!!!! You should make that photo big. It just captures her joy and the fact that she’s quite the well traveled lil girl!!!!
Thanks again for sharing!
Glad that you had a fun time in Mexico…I love the pics. The dress that maddy wore for her first birthday is so pretty! I wish that I would have had one for my daughter’s birthday. I hope that the fun you had on the 24th spilled over to the 25th and that it was managable.
I can’t wait to see Oprah!!
Can’t wait to see you on Oprah…even if I only read your blog I feel like “I know you”
Being on Oprah will be WONDEFUL for the foundation!
Wow! Oprah?! Can’t wait to see that!!
Glad you made it through the week, even though it was hard.
Glad to hear you made it through the week, even though it was hard.
Wow!! Oprah?! That’s fantastic!! Can’t wait to see that.
Holy Shit!!! OPRAH!!! This will do amazing things for the foundation!! Way to go dad!
Jesus Christ – As if your life hasn’t changed considerably as it is. This can only blow open your foundation. Let women unite, and all Oprah followers conquer!
oprah???!!!!!
holy crap. that’s huge matt.
Welcome home. =)
And didn’t we all say it was only a matter of time…Now that Oprah’s come calling, can a Movie of the Week be far behind…? I think Harrison Ford should play you.
Can that POSSIBLY be Maddy who’s getting so big…?!?!? Look at her, she’s huge! She’s practically grown up. Sigh…I feel so old.
Saw “Heavy Metal Parking Lot” like, 10 yrs ago…laughed my ass off! Enjoy the artistic integrity…
P.S.- If you are a Kevin Smith fan, see “Zack & Miri Make A Porno”…
I laughed until I cried…
Wow, Oprah! Can’t wait to see that.
Can’t wait to here more about your trip. Maddy looks adorable and like she was having a blast.
I just found your site today & read your story. My heart is aching for you & Madeline. Many, many hugs to you guys.
sorry you have had some bad notes sent to you…as if things are not difficult as they are.
Oprah is an exciting thing. Congratulations!!!
Your daughter gets cuter by the day!!
I love it when you post on your own blog.
wow Oprah!!!!
My mouth dropped open !
Can’t wait to see it.
OPRAH! that is amazing – congratulations. I know none of it would be happening if Liz were still here, but the way you’ve turned your situation into something good for others is inspiring. Also wanted to say that I was thinking of you last week, and I’m glad Mexico was everything you and maddy needed it to be. Oh – and I love the photo shoot video (delayed reaction I know)…so beautiful of miss madeline – how old does she look these days! I hope you are having a nice week. Take care…
Amazing! I knew you’d be on Oprah in no time! I can’t wait to watch!
Somehow I knew the day with Oprah would come. Like someone above in a post commented, yes, this has happened to many other men and women, why the attention, why Matt? its the way you tell your story. The way you write about your love for Liz and now Madeline. We see it and feel it in your powerful way with those words! You really have touched so many people with sharing your life in such an open way. Wow, this will draw so much attention to Liz’s Foundation. Think of all the families it will benefit! Yea M & M!!
Happy you all made it home safely, and Madeline in her little birthday dress – adorable!!
Note to AJ –
Are you ready for the onslot of Oprah fanatics?!?! We know that you wouldn’t make us regulars miss out on our Matt and Maddy. Hey, I am just looking out for all involved!
Either way, you do a great job on the website and appreciate how nicely it is layed out. What an awesome friend you are. Hope all is well with you and your little family!
Oprah, huh? You know, I’m not all that surprised, given the precedents of People, Rachael Ray. I hope it went well. So other than surreal, how is it being on these shows? Does it make it harder when you get home, or is it always just a continuation of the bizarre new reality you live every day?
Hang in there. Hugs.
You left Mexico for Oprah? You left that gorgeous blue skied place with clear waters and white sands for OPRAH?
I think I would have told Oprah to stick it.
Other than when she was Sophia from The Color Purple, do I like her, but that’s IT.
Now, if she promised to spout off some lines from the movie for me, THEN and only then would I consider coming on to her show. But that’s just me.
By the way, your pics are beautiful. I soooooo long to go on vacation!!
No more “The” LA, “The” Chicago?
Hello, endowment!!! Great news, Matt…for you, the foundation, Liz’s legacy, and all the young parents in similar situations.
I’m so glad you made it through your personal March Madness, and I hope the rest of Liz’s family and friends fared well, too. Now back to day-to-day life, I guess. Ah fuck.
Don’t know what to make of all the Oprah talk — I suspected your “interesting” day up North was going to be something like that, but I still can’t wrap my brain around what it says about our culture, or even the big O herself, that she’s seen as the natural go-to person for tragedies such as yours AND that appearing on her show is considered a dream come true for so many. I mean, shouldn’t it be the last fucking place on Earth you’d ever want to see yourself or someone you care about?!? I’m going to have to think on that one some more…
But of course, I’ll be watching. (Fun fact: I think your Rachel Ray and Oprah appearances, and the annual Times Square ball drops, are the only times our TV’s been on since 2003.) Anyway, now that someone mentioned it, I AM a little curious about how she smelled, but what I’m really dying to know is whether she handed you one of those of big-ass posterboard checks. I have so always wanted one of those.
Be well, Matt. Hope you get back into the swing without too much difficulty, and that you have more adventures lined up to distract and amuse. I’m guessing if you don’t, before long, you will! Take care, xo
Wow, a whole year. A bittersweet year.
A good friend of mine just lost her nine year old son 3.14.09. He became ill one year ago on March 24th 2008 He was diagnosed with a brain tumor on March 25th. Your world, and theirs, turned upside down and inside out, one year ago, and then again after that, a year later. One year, 365 long days. You are not alone, you grieve with others who feel your pain but you are all still here after one year. Still here to carry on in their memory, to remind people that Liz and Cody existed and were here for a reason.
Keeping moving, one year at a time.
I fricken called it, Matt. Remember…at the playdate…RR and then Oprah…I think you thought that since Oprah owned Rachel it wouldn’t happen…ha! So awesome! Make sure to give us notice, so we can catch it. I missed RR.
Congrats on Oprah- WOW! Maddy is too cute with her piece of cake.
Christ. I’ve been reading your blog for about 6 months. And now I find myself missing Liz and feeling your sadness when looking at the photos.
I’m eternally sorry for what you are going through.
Beautiful little girl in her pink dress..love it!!
And Oprah, woo hoo can’t wait!!
Matt-
It was so nice to meet you and Maddy in the airport in Mx! My girls had a ball playing with her! Hope all went well with Oprah and can’t wait to see the show–I’ll let my team know in case they don’t already! You got out just in time as the weather was brutal here in Chicago on Sunday!
Maddy has grown SO much in one week!!! Love the climbing pics. (Love ALL the pics). Can’t wait to see Oprah. Keep doing what you are doing Matt. You are an amazing dad and writer.
M & M,
As I sit here in my warm house as the snow keeps falling (we are spose to get 14 inches with 35 mile hour winds, gotta love the MN) and living 1 hour from the Red river as it is flooding Fargo/Moorehead I find myself reading your blog understanding just how good I have it. I read your blog and I am inspired to be the best person I can be. I can’t wait to see the two of you on Oprah. Hopefully this will generate more awareness and funds for the foundation.
welcome home, matt and maddy.
glad to hear from you. i checked everyday.
can’t wait to see that episode. i cried when i saw you on rachael ray’s show, so i know i’ll cry when i see you on O’s show.
i have the blue polka dot gymboree dress for my little zoe to wear once it warms up. i hope she looks as cute in it as maddy does. *hugs and love* God bless both of you. I’m sorry you’re having to go through what you are, but you have each other.. and that says a lot 
oprah, huh? wow. that’s just amazing.
i love the pics.
i grew bored of it. i will only use it with acronyms from now on (the mn, the la, etc).
I WROTE OPRAH LIKE 3 TIMES AND BEGGED HER TO HAVE YOU BOTH ON HER SHOW…..I AM SOOOOOOOO HAPPY YOU GOT TO GO…CAN’T WAIT TO WATCH!!!
hi i was randomly flipping the channels one day and came across a Kevin Bacon movie (TERRIBLE MOVIE) but had to stop and watch because of a song on it. “This Womens Work” by Kate Bush.
my friend, also a reader of your blog, said “man, that song makes me think of Matt, Liz and Maddy. And it does. I dont know why, but its beautiful, haunting and makes me tear up and think of you every time I hear it (its now on friend’s ipod and we listen to it in the car). (oh, the movie was she’s having a baby). I hope mexico recharged you, and i know that the memories you make with maddy keep Liz alive in your hearts.
Looks like you both had a very good time!
Madeline is as adorable as ever! And oprah? Sweet! I record that show on my DVR. I totally missed the People magazine one (we were so broke!) so I’m happy we’ll get to see you on Oprah!
*HUGS*
Woohoo! I emailed Oprah MONTHS ago about your story. I’m sure I wasn’t the only one! Can’t wait to see the show!Glad you had a good time in Meh-hee-co! And Happy belated Birthday. Her kindred cousin William had his birthday that day too. Where are the sloppy cake-on-face photos? I know you have some!
We will miss you when you are here in Hawaii! What are the odds?
I can’t wait to see what being on Oprah does for the foundation.
Everything that Oprah touches turns to gold…seriously. It’s crazy how she can mention a business, product, etc. and her fans just flock to it. I’m hoping for oodles of donations for you! 
I was wondering when you’d get on Oprah! I think it’s great you’re willing to share your story with so many people. I look forward to seeing the episode
Wow, that Kate Bush song is something else.
Matt Please know that we are all here for you, wheather you know us personally or just thru this blog, we are all on this journey with you. Thank you for letting us into yours and Madelines lives and your families life as well.
Hang in there…
From one Minnesotan to another,
Jen
She looks so perfectly, perfectly happy in the second photograph =) Happy birthday to your beautiful little girl!! I hope she’s always so full of joy!
My thoughts are with you and your family and Liz’s family going forward into the second year without her in your lives. Again, I am so sorry.
I like how you just *kind of* threw Oprah in there like it was nuthin. See how you are?
I’m so paying attention.
Maddy looked so happy. She seems bigger! Hope you are doing okay.
Very cool about Oprah!
I figure you’re not yet ready to compete, but thought this might give you a goal to train toward, for your next MN visit:
http://twincities.metromix.com/bars-and-clubs/bar_club_event/snuggie-pub-crawl-msp-downtown/1065372/content
The picture of the birthday celebration cracks my shit up!!!! I can’t wait to see you guys on Oprah.
Awesome about Oprah! I was wondering when/if that would happen. Loved the pics of Maddy – she’s a cute one year old!
And I wanted to say how awesome your blog readers are – gifting MckMama a night at the neighboring hotel for a much needed night of sleep!! Awesome generosity!
Matt, I just read that some of your readers donated a room at the Sheraton Hotel for the night to an exhausted mom and dad whose baby (Stellan @ my charming kids) has been in the PICU for 10 days. What a wonderfully, kind blessing they have given. People, you are awesome!
Madeline is beautiful!
Sorry to say it, but seeing Oprah pales in comparison with what you have accomplished this past year – in fact, my youngest kids (6 & 5) wouldn’t be able to recognize Oprah in a line-up . . . but they both can instantly recognize Maddie. (ahem, not that I don’t TIVO Oprah daily, but THEY don’t know who she is!)
All I had to do was mention that it was the day after their great-grandfather’s birthday, and my six year old said, “That means that Maddie is ONE!”. So glad, yet sad, to have spent this year with you and Miss Maddie . . .
Liz would be MORE than proud . . .
What a beautiful little girl. I found your blog through MckMama’s. I will be back.
I have literally just spent the last 2 hours reading your life story…I didn’t get through even half….and I could spend 22 more hours here on your blog reading the rest! You are amazing! Honestly, your story is so touching and your daughter is so beautiful! She truly looks so much like Liz…what a wonderful blessing despite the heartbreak. I have added you to my google reader and plan to keep up with you and the lil one!
She is nothing less than beautiful.
Happy Belated Birthday Madeline
You are beautiful and so obviously loved and adored by your Dad.
Oprah? Whoot! Haven’t watched her in years but give us the heads up Matt and I will be watching!
welcome home..
so you can’t even travel across the continent to make international television appearances without being outed by bystanders?
So Oprah isn’t much of a leap…
Well i am glad in the midst of your stardom we still get to enjoy Madeline and she isn’t covered up with veils hidden away behind unfeeling body guards…if you change her name to blanket- I think I will stop reading your blog.
okay- that is Michael Jackson reference.
alright now *that* was a bit of a leap on my part.
hopefully.
Woah. Oprah.
Love Madeline’s birthday outfit. Can’t wait to hear more about your Mexico trip. I just returned from Mexico today
If you ever wonder if this blog is making a difference, just look at what your readers did for Jennifer and her family tonight. A night of rest from the picu. I am proud to *know* such a wonderful group of people. And proud to *know* you and Madeline.
Great pictures, Matt, and I really love the light on the beach within your latest set. Back where we should be was my favourite.
Yes, it’s very hard to come home on your own — somehow it just kind of rams the truth down your throat each time — and after a while you get to expect that.
But it still hurts. It bloody hurts.
Go sock it to Oprah!
Hi! i just found your blog through MacMama’s blog. You have such a beautiful little girl. I am so sorry for your loss. You are a great dad and your daughter is very lucky to have you.
Love the last picture of her sitting in the airplane seat!
I followed the link from MckMama. Man, I didn’t need to cry again today! I watched the video… you are a great dad! I don’t even know you, yet I know that your daughter is lucky to have you as a father and that Liz is smiling on you!
i was following your story before you got all famous
even though i don’t know you, i can tell that you are doing an AMAZING job at being a daddy and when you and madeline see liz in heaven, she’ll tell you the same!! glad you got to go to mexico for a get a way and OPRAH….wow!!! that will do wonders for your organization and you can help even more people!
Hey, the “creeps” who gave MckMama the hotel room are just the sweetest folks ever!!! I have been following both blogs for a very long time and was so happy to see the connection! What a wonderful, technological world we live in!!
Way to go creeps!
Like many on here I have never left a comment on your blog let alone any blog and like everyone says Maddy is beautiful and you are doing an amazing job. You have also made me photograph my son much, much more.
But I wanted to let you know that Liz has touched me and made me a much better mother. My son was born on 3/26 and because of Liz I hug him a little tighter, kiss him a little more and just appreciate being his mom and being here a little bit more…so thank you for sharing your story.
i was wondering when “Oprah” was next. you truly are an AMAZING father, you are an Inspiration to many.
As always, you and maddy are in my and many others, thoughts and prayers today, tomorrow and always.
(finally i figured how to leave a comment, i just needed to scroll down the page.)
just wanted to say…happy april.
You’re gonna be on Oprah??? Holy hell, man. That is so amazing. Please post the date (as I often miss it) when/if you can. Oh, and Happy (belated) Birthday to your gorgeous daughter.
oprah! wow! can’t wait to check that out
glad you had a good celebration in mexico. the pics are beautiful
aw I love the pics on Flickr!
Those chairs in Mexico have some memories hanging on them.
I was wondering if you knew Mckmama being that you have MN in common and largely popular blogs! I was excited when I saw the tweets to eachother last night…yes I am silly!
So Oprah eh…that’s crazyness! I can’t wait to see it.
Maddy’s hair looks longer–less baby, more little girl!
You made it one year man. I’m thankful to have been a part of it. Thanks for sharing.
Oprah? Sweet! I record her show every day. Can’t wait to see you on there.
Wow. I just came to visit from MckMama’s blog and read a little bit… I know no words can comfort you, so here’s my half attempt at saying something remotely comforting…
I really am so very sorry to hear of Liz’s passing… I am so very sorry this world is cruel and not fair! I am so sorry that Madeline will grow up not knowing her mom… You seem to be one amazing father though and thanks to the blog and your stash of Flickr photos, Madeline will be able to create memories for years to come becuase of you… She will thrive off stories you tell her and the time you two spend together. You have done a wonderful thing in starting the foundation to help so many others that are finding themselves in your same shoes!
I applaud you. You are one strong man. I will certainly keep you and Madeline in my thoughts and prayers and will continue to follow your blog!
Found your blog today through My Charming Kids. Thanks for putting her up in a hotel, very thoughtful. Your ’story’ has touched my heart and I will continue to follow your journey. May God bless you and your little girl
Happy Birthday to little Madeline! I’ve loved watching her grow up this past year—thank you for sharing her (and you) with all of us. And thank you for sharing your memories of Liz.
DUDE!! I know it has been said like 292 times already but f’ing OPRAH!!! Hell yah!! Can’t wait!!
Thanks for sharing the best and hardest year of your life.
Cheers!!
Oprah?!?! Holy shit! That’s awesome. Did she give you any of her favorite things?
Madelyn is getting SO big! She looks like such a little girl now. Good job daddy. Liz is so proud of the job you’ve done.
HEY MATT! MY NAME IS DENISSE AND IM FROM GUADALAJARA, MEXICO… CAN U BELIEVE HOW FAR U STORY HAS COME? IM GLAD U CAME TO MEXICO AND THAT U LIKED IT, WHERE WERE U AT? I LOVED THE PICTURE OF MADELINE WITH THE SOMBRERO! HAHA ANYWAY I JUST WANTED TO TELL U HOW MUC I ADMIRE U, I WATCHED U ON OPRAH AND I THINK UR SUCH A STRONG MAN AN UR AN EXAMPLE FOR EVERYONE INCLUDING ME, IM 21 AND IM GETTIN’ MARRIED NEXT YEAR AND I THINK THAT RIGHT NOW LOSING MY FIANCEE IS MY BIGGEST FEAR, BUT LOOKING AT U AND UR STORY IT REALLY MAKES ME FEEL STRONGER… THANK U FOR THAT =) LOTS OF KISSES AND LOVE FOR U AND MADDIE, I HOPE U COME BACK TO MEXICO AGAIN SOON! TAKE CARE
Welcome home! I love Madeline’s birthday shirt
And meeting Oprah…wow. I imagine that was a bittersweet kind of moment.
Hi Matt- I found your blog through Jennifers… wow such a journey you’ve been on… one that I am way too familiar with! My hubby died in april 03 and also my current hubby’s wife died (during childbirth) with 03. We’ve found each other (WOW) and now I’ve found you! Cool thing, I have a baby girl who is 1 on mar 28- like your lil maddy! Anyway- I so know what your going through, the 1st year was hell but the 2nd year was just another battle I was left to fight… So I’m h ere if ever you need a chat!
Maddy is just so beautiful! Can’t wait to see you both on Oprah.
Lots of hugs to your guys!
You are simply amazing! In the last 5 days I have read through your entire blog (or at least I think I have) I keep coming back to check and see if I missed anything. I have wept, smiled and laughed. I’ve gone to bed at night and prayed and cried silently for what you have and what you have lost. March 22, 2001 I suffered a brain injury and my husband watched me start slipping away. After 8 years, numerous surgeries, seizures and medications I am back! But reading your blog makes me realize what life would have been like for my husband. We have 4 children and our youngest was 2 at the time. You are simply amazing. God bless you and Maddy. Take care and I will check back frequently.
Hearts and Hugs
Marie Wimsett
wow…feelin the jason mraz hate from your tweet loud and clear! good thing you can’t hear me and my three boys when we’re cruising the streets in our minivan, (yup i said minivan! – completes the picture i think….) blaring jason and singing along at the tops of our lungs….
ha! awesome.
I’ve read every post on your blog, but don’t comment (mostly b/c I don’t feel like I have anything worthy to say). But when I first discovered it months ago, I went to the Oprah site and sent them your link. I told them they had to read about you. I think it’s great that you were on. Madeline looks like she was born to fly first class in that last photo.
Ah, Maddy’s polka dot dress is adorable! ANd the cupcake birthday outfit. Can’t wait to see her Oprah debut.
You are a beautiful Father. Madeline is a very fortunate child to have you and I would like to hope Liz is looking at you with an unbelievable sense of pride.
I cannot get over your twitter note about the organ donation people…can’t you get off their mailing list?!?! How could they think what they were sending was even remotely appropriate?!?!
your baby is so sweet,,,,,,
You guys are amazing and inspiring. I have a 2 1/2 year old and a 2 month old, and I can’t imagine for a second what you’re going through. When I saw you guys on the Rachael Ray show, I thought about my own kids, and what a blessing children really are. They can turn any situation around for their parents, however tough it may be. Best of luck to you, and a happy birthday to Maddy
i wrote to oprah about you and your blog not long after liz’s death…i knew what you were doing was much bigger than liz’s story – you were giving voice to so many single parents dealing with the loss of a partner. i am glad that you are giving voice to so many. liz is proud, no doubt.
Happy Birthday, Maddy! I don’t post often, but I think of the two of you often.
Hei Matt!
I just surfed around today at the internet, and somehow God sent me to Your blog.
I have three marvelous children at home and the youngest is a littlebit older than Maddy.
It has not been easy to grow up all those little and big angels, but itś a big blessing to have them, even if they worry us sometimes.
I see You have already done a great work, because Your Love works for You.
Martin Luther said, that if we really belive in Love and God, then we become a love canal in His Hands. He is speaking and loving thru You, I can see it.
So I really love Your site, wonderfull photos and inspiring writings.
God Bless You and Your Angels, both in Heaven and on Earth!