it took me a while to go through all of the comments, but here is my best attempt at answering some of the questions you posed about about my book. there were a few questions that were asked multiple times, so i chose to focus on those.
here goes…
question: why write a book?
answer: for madeline. for her future so she can know our past. and for liz. as i said before, this is my monument to her (that sentence will make even more sense when you read the book). for our families, for our friends. for you and the other “yous” out there who haven’t found my blog.
question: will you just be printing your blog? if not, will your book be written in the same style as the blog?
answer: no we will not simply print my blog, bind it and sell it as a book like some bloggers have been known to do. **ahem** and to quote john berryman’s poem, message in the book, love & fame
well, hell. i am not writing an autobiography-in-verse, my friends.
i couldn’t have said it better myself. and yeah, there are many reasons for this.
1. the book would be like, 678,225 pages long.
2. this is what the publisher wants.
3. this is what i want.
really. through this book, i have an amazing opportunity to share our story with a (hopefully) huge number of people. i would limit my ability to reach these folks if i continued to write like a third grader. plus using a more prosaic approach will allow me to present you with a narrative rich in detail. that said, the book will be written in my voice. if you want a preview of how that will read; copy one of my blog posts, remove the line breaks, and convert the verse into complete sentences.
statement: but i really like your third-grade verse style of writing!
statement: well, you’re in luck! i plan to use some of the blog-style verse interspersed throughout the book because of the emotional weight it lends to our story.
question: what is the book going to cover? is it going to be a time-line of sorts, documenting your adventures or will it be more of a life lessons work? are you going to talk a lot more about liz and a lot of background story on both of you so we understand the memories you encounter on your every day life?”
answer: that’s a combination of a bunch of related questions. the book is going to be all of that. it will cover roughly the first year of my life with madeline and will be less of a day-to-day account of our lives since liz died (like the blog) and more of an in-depth look at some of the significant events in our life since march 25th, 2008. there will be lots of flashbacks to moments with liz and lots of memories, including the story of how we met, our time together before we were married, before madeline arrived, etc. those memories are so very important in my everyday life, and they are crucial to our story. and yeah, there will be some life lessons in there, but i have no plans to beat anyone over the head with them. again, very similar to my blog in many ways.
question: will you continue to swear?
answer: yes, i will continue to swear (the publisher has given me the green light to do so).
question: will your book include photos?
answer: maybe. we’re still working out some details.
question: do you have a release date?
answer: very tentatively scheduled to be released in the spring of 2011. the book is due to grand central far sooner than that, but printing, marketing, etc take some time. oh. and i have to write the damn thing.
question: have you chosen a title?
answer: that’s something else that is still tentative. the working title is: “adventures with maddy: a memoir of love, loss and the extraordinary community that healed us” fyi, the title was never, “maddy and me” (though i joked about that one with my literary agents at one point). that was simply the headline that publisher’s weekly used when they wrote about the book.
question: will you still work outside your house or will writing be your full-time job?
answer: being madeline’s dad is my priority.. i also have a full-time job with a rather large internet company, plus a blog, and of course, my book. i will do it all, i just won’t sleep very much.
question: will proceeds go to the liz logelin foundation?
answer: yes. i plan to donate a portion of my proceeds to the foundation.
question: are you going to be continuing the blog?
answer: at the very heart of everything, this blog is something for madeline and my family and i will continue it until i no longer wish to do so or my family no longer wants me to write it. rather than require me to stop, grand central has actually encouraged me to continue to blog.
question: are you taking down old posts in order to “save” material for the book.
answer: no.
question: did the thought of writing a book ever cross your mind before you were approached by publishers?
answer: no. i never, ever could have guessed that i’d be writing a book. i was contacted by multiple publishers and agents and with each e-mail/phone call i gained confidence that i could actually do something like this. funny thing about the book proposal i submitted to the publishers…first line was, “i am not a writer.”
question: what are your fears, if any, in writing the book?
answer: i don’t want to disappoint anyone.
question: (two, actually). i would love to read extended thoughts on how you reconcile the amazing experiences you’ve had over the past year with the extreme loss you’ve experienced. and how are you different than the guy who unknowingly walked into the hospital last year?
answer: great questions. i think the blog answers the first question very well. the book will answer it more in-depth, and it will most certainly will answer the second.
question: will the book be distributed outside of the us?
answer: foreign rights are negotiated separately. this is already in the works and we have been approached by several foriegn markets for rights to my book (holy shit!).
question: will there be a book tour?
answer: i sure hope so.
questions not related to the book:
question: how in the hell do you get to travel so much?
answer: i’ve worked for the internet for 7+ years and the internet is generous.
question: do you have a record player at home that you actually use?”
answer: yes. two of them.
question: do you ever plan to move back to mn to be closer to your family?
answer: as of now, i have no plans to leave los angeles. luckily i get to see liz’s family and my family quite often.
question: who’s gonna play liz, maddy and you in the movie?
answer: what movie?
question: how can we, your faithful readers, support you?
answer: keep reading the blog and keep encouraging me. oh. and it would be nice if you bought a copy or six of the book when it comes out. oh. and tell your friends.
question: how many crazy people have you had to deal with because of the blog?
answer: a few, but most have been amazing, generous, kind wonderful and all the other superlatives you could think of. there’s a reason i still try to meet up with anyone who wants to meet us.
question: do you ever worry about exposing madeline to too much public attention?
answer: not sure what i should be worried about…
question: a turtle loses its shell, is it naked or homeless.
answer: vulnerable.
259 Comments
I’m so excited for you, Maddy and this book. I hope it is everything you want it to be an more. I’ll definitely be buying a copy the day it comes out! Thanks for the Q and A!
Very excited for the book Matt! Congrats again… just pissed I wasn’t in the CA for the Weinermobile…
Thank you for answering our questions Matt! I am looking forward to watching this process. And I will definitely be buying a copy when the book does come out
keep doing what you do.
we’ll be here.
Awesome of you to answer people’s questions Matt – I can’t wait to read the book – I will buy a copy or six
Matt it sounds great! What a great oppertunity.
http://sprucehill.typepad.com/
Awe, man, I am so happy this book thing is rally happening!
Thanks for answering all those questions…I wish you well in this new endeavor.
You are very talented and I am excited to read the book in a year or two.
Thanks for sharing your life with us! We love you and Maddy
poor turtle
Matt,
WTF…………You didn’t answer my question….Just kidding…I am excited for you and Maddie and can’t wait for the book to come out, & the book tour to follow soon after.
I cannot wait until this book comes out. i can assure you that i’m going to be buying a few copies. 1 for myself to read. 1 to be autographed by you and maddie… eventually. LOL and some for my dear friends that don’t know about you/this site. i think everyone in the world should know about you guys. *smiles*
thank you, once again, for sharing your lives with us. you’re truly inspirational. 
you continue to be a great daddy, first and foremost. and maddy is so lucky to have such a devoted father.
Super duper stoked. We will be buying 6 copies thankyouverymuch!
I love that all my favorite bloggers…especially the ones with real stories to tell with real emotions…are writing books. You should tell your story. Boldly and loudly. You should be really proud of what you have done and are doing. Liz would be proud beyond your dreams. You have done what all of us who have lost a spouse and are raising kids have always wanted to to: let them live on so that our kids really know the person that we loved and who loved them so desperately.
Way to be brave.
So exciting! And I am going to continue to bug you to do something fun Aug 6-9 when I am in LA! If the publishers can bug you until you agree, so can I!
Congrats!! I’m super stoked for the book and all the greatness it will bring you and Maddy.
I just can’t wait to read it! Looking forward to hearing more of the backstory and hopefully of your travels. I will buy one for myself and a bunch as gifts, I am sure. Congrats!
Have no fear, Matt. You could never disappoint. The very, very best of wishes with the writing. Looking forward to reading the book. And in the meantime, I’ll keep enjoying reading about your adventures with Maddy here.
Awesome!! Good Luck!
I can’t wait to read your book! I love reading your blog so I can only imagine how wonderful your book will be!
Wow!
I hope it is available in Australia!! I’d buy a copy (or six
all the best!
I can’t wait! I wish you luck with the book!
Great answers! – which of course prompt another question from me (and probably a reasonable chunk of your other readers): will the book be distributed outside of the US? I know it’ll be available on amazon.com (the US site), but that doesn’t necessarily translate to it being readily available on the .co.uk site or other overseas bodies. Plus, we need you to come to Dublin for the book tour so that we can have you in a curse-off with Shane McGowan and give Maddie a Guinness moustache…
I promise to buy at least six books and put them all together on my bookshelf so I get weird looks as to why I have six copies of the same book.
Thanks for answering the questions! Very insightful and rather amusing.
Congrats on the book! 
I don’t think I can wait until 2011!
Such wonderful news, Matt.
I anxiously wait its arrival…
Such great answers, I’m really looking forward to the book! Will definitely buy a copy the day it comes out, just tell me when!
I can’t wait to see the book. Good luck with the writing. I hope it is a fun experience for you
your story continues to inspire me, make me laugh and make me cry. I look forward to buying and reading your book. thank you for sharing your life with us through this blog and your incredible photographs.
Matt- Thanks for taking the time to answer as many questions as you could. I can’t imagine how many you got. And BTW your blog has encouraged me to start one of my own…just for the kids really and I LOVE LOVE LOVE your third-grade verse style of writing. Hope you don’t mind but I am writing my blog in the same style. Thanks for letting me pirate that.
Also, gonna be in LA in a couple of weeks with my hubby and my chillins’…maybe we can meet up at Griffith Park (train area) or observatory if you are around? Email me if you’re available in the evening on 8/1/09.
Excited to read the book. And while I will only be buying one copy, you can be sure I will refer as many people as possible to pick up a book and support the foundation.
This is such a fantastic idea. I can’t wait to read the book! I’ve been following your story for quite awhile and I’m excited to hear even more about it.
Don’t know how I can wait until 2011 when I know NOW that the book is coming, but I will most definitely be there to buy 1 or 6
Loving that you are staying true to self with all the publicity going on — it’s why people read —
the swearing rocks – sometimes I feel like there are no other words to describe how I’m feeling in a moment -
Sounds exciting… It will be on my for sure to read list!
@Sarah in Ireland-
i updated to post to answer your question on foreign rights.
(i knew i forgot something. sorry about that).
The book (as well as the blog) will be an amazing gift for Maddy when she gets older. Can’t wait to buy a copy. Wishing you both all the best.
P.S. the tentative title made me tear up.
I cannot wait….. I’m going to read it non stop but first I’m reading your blog through again
Keep it up Matt…all of us strangers are out here cheering for you and Maddy!!
Wow! People sure asked a lot of questions. Good job with all the answers. I am looking forward to the book and will do my part to buy 6+ copies. Good luck with the writing and the goofy pony sprouts in Maddy’s hair (not enough hair to quite be a pony tail). I think you’re channeling her inner Cindy-Lou-Who.
One more ?….what are all your tatoos of? Can’t read some of them in pics and I (being the blogger stalker I’ve turned out to be in recent months) haven’t been able to find it in the archives.
I, for one, can’t wait to buy the book! I applaud your efforts and strength and your love for your precious little one that shows through it all.
Matt, I can’t wait to see and buy and read your book (or all 6 copies I’ll buy). I can only imagine both how painful and gratifying the writing of it must be and will continue to be. Writing flays you to the bone – and the discoveries we make along the way change us, hopefully only for the better. Best wishes to you. And by the way, you ARE a writer.
Matt this is wonderful and I will continue to support you by reading this blog, sending positive thoughts your way, and buying your book when it comes out. One of these days we will meet, I was bummed I missed Sunday!
2011?? that’s almost 2 years from now! shite! i am not a patient person…..uggh!
and this “questions answered” post was a pretty good “soon”, as far as your “soons” go! HA!
i guess i’ll stick around for a couple of YEARS, reading your blog, waiting for your book……(hell yes i will…)
2011?? I don’t think I can wait that long!!
I hope the writing is coming along well. I’m sure Maddy is a great muse….
Great q & a’s… cant wait for the book…hate that it is two years away… but I know it takes time !!!
Matt, I will definitely be buying the book. I love your blog and Madeline is just precious. It warms my heart that she will have this blog and the book as keepsakes of her mother and your family’s journey. All the best. Mary
Wow… I had no idea it took so long to write a book, publish it, print it and market it!
Can’t wait to read your book Matt! I’m glad so many good things are happening to you and your family. You guys deserve the best.
I started reading your blog after I saw you on Racheal Ray. My husband’s cousin died shortly after childbirth in September 2008. She died as a result of HELLP. So your story touched my heart. I so enjoy following you and Maddy and your travels. We all have a story and I look forward to reading your book and learning more about yours.
so excited for the book! congrats, matt. you’re doing it all and most importantly, being an awesome dad to your maddy. you rock.
Thanks for the Q & A, can’t wait for the book, 2011 isn’t too far away! I am sure it will be as heart felt and honest as your blog. I look forward to reading more about you and Liz; your life before Madeline and during the pregnancy!
Congratulations again!
Can’t wait for the book – congrats!
I will most definitely buy a copy of your book..I graduate from college around the time the book comes out so I will request it as a gift. I will continue to read your blogs and keep track of Maddy. I am sure I speak for everyone when I say that I feel like I know her and have watched her grow up. If I ever get the opportunity to meet the two of you I will feel like a family friend..keep on being the wonderful dad that you are!
Matt I am so super happy for you. Sign me up to get one of your first copies. I can’t wait to read it. I don’t think I can wait that long…….
I cannot wait for the book. I will buy many and refer lots.
You inspire me every day, thank you!
My family and I would love to meet you and Maddy if you are ever in NYC
Jessica
I still expect to wake up one day and discover this was all a dream. And hell — it’s not even happening to ME!
I’ve been following your blog for a long time and can’t wait to read your book.
Please consider making your book available in an electronic format. Lots of Kindle and other e-reader owners would love to read your story.
it sounds lovely, and just perfect. i can’t wait.
What an exciting, busy time for you and Maddy! I’m really looking forward to being able to read your book…I check your blog almost daily just to keep up with the two of you! Is one of those foreign markets Australia? I tell my family about you both all the time and I’m sure they would love to read your book too!…If not I guess I will be buying more than one copy!!
Well… I’m Brazil
2 years waiting for a book
There’ll be lots of things to add
I can’t wait to read the book
I can’t wait for the book. Maddy is going to thank you so very much when she is grown. On so many levels.
The last Q/A was rad. And true.
Will definitely be keeping track of the book release; same time Im taking the Bar. Cant wait for both!
Congrtas on all your success! I will definitely be buying some copies of your book. Good luck!!
I am so excited about your book. I will buy at least one but probably more. Has anyone asked you about a book of your photographs? You have an amazing talent there.
I can’t wait! I can’t wait! I can’t wait!!
Did I say I can’t wait?? Because I can’t.
I have a question: Will you be reading the audiobook yourself?
Some of your answers are cracking me up…specifically the thrid grade writer one. I love that you can make fun of yourself. Mark me down for four books…I’ll be buying one for myself and one for each of my sisters and mom. So that we can start a book club and be amazed and cry and shake our fists at our husbands while screaming “WHY CAN’T YOU LOVE ME THIS MUCH!?!!?!”
bastards.
I don’t think our husbands will be buying the books.
oh my God…so so so so excited Matt!! what an amazing guy you are!! and father!! Congratulations! I will be eagerly awaiting your book!
thanks for the updates! cannot wait to read your book.
How exciting!! You are very inspiring and I can not wait to read your book. =D
Your story has touched me more than anything else I’ve come across in years. Thank you for being so candid and for sharing so much of your daily activities with us interweb stalkers..er fans.
I have on a few occasions, when having a rotten day, gone into your archives and read a few entries. Brings me back to a place of gratitude immediately.
I nearly dropped my coffee when I read your post about you writing a book. I can’t wait to read it and I’ll be the first in line to buy one (or six) when they are released.
Keep writing. You’re good at it. We’re all rooting for you and that adorable, ridiculously cute kid.
I am sorry you plan to continue to swear. Now you don’t want sweet Madeline to grow up and marry a swearing man do you?
I will most definitely be buying a copy. Can’t wait till 2011!
2011? OK, so time flies, but what do you do with those of us who are impatient?
So happy for you and Maddy.
I cant wait to read the book! You are a great father and you should be proud of yourself and your sweet baby girl! I know Liz would be!
Thanks for answering our questions. This is really exciting – what a great tribute! Not sure if you’ve heard of a little movie called “Dear Zachary,” but if you come across it, it’s quite moving like your own story. Not that you want to be exposed to anymore terribly tragic shit, but when I watched it I thought how wonderful it would be for you to be able to put something similar together for Maddy. Something where you and all of Liz’s friends could share their memories for Maddy. You will be creating such a precious gift for your little girl. Don’t forget to add Wash, DC/Northern VA to your book tour!
Book beats the hell out of a reality show–those suck. Best of fortune to you and Maddy with your book!
Awesome, thanks for the Q&A. Good luck with the writing, I think you’ll do just fine. Although, I too will be one that starts reading the blog over again, because 2011 is just way too far off. I do hope that they put Dallas on your book tour!
Hope you and Miss Maddy are having a great week.
I will be first in line at the bookstore. Seriously. I’m getting excited just thinking about it!! YOU CAN DO THIS!! I’ll be praying for and supporting you from TX!!!
Love, Mere
Dude, you’re so awesome! Can’t wait to read the book and thanks for staying true to you. I can’t imagine it any other way.
I’m very much looking forward to your book. And I will continue to support you, Maddy, and Liz by stopping by here lots!
woohhhooooo can not wait to read your book and happy that you will continue to blog
hope i never come across a vulnerable turtle. what an “awkward turtle” moment (google it)
Very cool
I do hope the book has pictures, because the pix are like the punctuation marks to your text.
matt, i’ve been reading your blog for about eight months now and i always ask myself “why are you so intrested in this dude and his daughter?” i have found the answer my friend! through all the sad shit that has happened to you with the loss of liz and the continued grief of it all one thing always astounds me,,, you always find the funny side of it all. you make me laugh and cry all in the same blog! this my friend is truly a gift.
as far as the questions go.. well my fav has to be the vulnerable turtle. now that’s good stuff! irrevelant but funny still. and i will absolutly buy the book. rock on man!
I am sorry you plan to continue to swear. Now you don’t want sweet Madeline to grow up and marry a swearing man do you?
Yes, because her mother married a swearing man, and we know how THAT turned out.
Love the turtle question!!
I’m looking forward to reading the book. I think you might underestimate how much people who read your blog feel like they know you. Strangely, you were in my dream the other night. I was visiting LA (which never happens) and my husband and I visited you. You and I sat around and drank bourbon on the rocks and talked. (I don’t drink bourbon in real life either.) Very strange.
Anyway, good luck with the writing! Let me know if you ever drop by Iowa on your many travels and I’ll try to develop a taste for bourbon.
Awesome-ness!!!
I was so excited about reading this post! You answered so many important many question
Gezzzz 2011!!! I dont think I can wait that long!! We blog readers should get it earlier!!! lol!
I must say I love the fact that you can be you in the book and swear!
Plus your biggest fear….no worries!
I think you are a beautiful writer and the emotion you put into your blog writing is touching, so I cant imagine the book would be anything but…. Amazing!! You are never disappointing!!!
One more thing…
I always wondered those unrelated questions?!?!?!
Especially the “do you meet a couple crazy’s” and about moving home? Thank you for answer our questions~
Thanks for being so awesome and sharing your life, love and loss with us!
I hope we help you as much as you help us readers! oh and I love Iron and wine…and now my in laws and family do too!! Thanks to your awesome music suggestions!!!
PS. Gidget is so right..your pix’s are like the punctuation marks to your text!! hope there are a couple ones in there…maybe in the back of the book???
I am so excited for you! You will do an awesome job with the book. I can’t wait to read it!
Awesome! I can’t wait for the book and I sure hope a city near me is on that book tour! I think this will be an awesome opportunity for your readers to get another look in to your life (and brain!) and something incredibly special for Miss Maddy. How exciting!
Can’t wait to BUY your book! Will look forward to this….
All the best.
I can’t wait to buy your book! I look forward to it!
I love to read the comments section after your blog entries. ‘The Bastard’ was right on! My kids knew from the beginning that mommy always says ‘shit’ but they can’t.
Seriously, you did an amazing job of answering the questions. Maddie is such an awesome little girl because of her daddy. Keep up the great lessons with Miss Maddie. Looking forward to seeing you guys in the MN in September (if not before).
Hi Matt – Loved reading the Q and A blog and will definitely promote your book! I sent you an email last month to your hotmail account, but I’m not sure if it’s still active so will repeat here: I am offering to proof your writing–for free–before it goes to your editor/publisher/whoever. I am very good at this–love to do it–recently retired young–don’t comment much on here but follow your blog and Twitter daily. If you decide to take me up on this, consider it a donation to the foundation. You have my email if you’re interested . . . I think your book will be a huge seller. Your story touches so many people’s hearts–can’t wait for it! What a gift to the world. Thank you in advance for writing it.
Can’t wait for your book! Oh, and I’ve already told EVERYONE I know about this blog, hahaha. I seriously could be your salesperson.
Thank you once again for sharing so much, you have touched so many people.
I am excited for the book! Now I have to keep checking the blog to know when it is going to come out (not that I was planning on stopping anyways!!)! You are definitely an inspiration to everyone Matt, and I plan on sharing your book once it comes out.
The way you have persevered in the name of love is so admirable. Spring of ’11 can’t come soon enough!
Awesome awesome fucking awesome
I hope you come to Tampa on your book tour.
Thought I would come out of ‘lurker’ status to say CONGRATS on the book!
Hi Matt and Maddy,
I have been reading your blog for awhile now, but never commented. But I just have to say I am super excited about the book! I will definitely be buying a few copies for myself and some to hand out (I tell everyone about you guys). Thanks for sharing the plans.
I can’t wait to have a copy of your book!
And I just have to say this because I’ve thought it for some time but never felt ballsy enough to say it … *IF* there is ever to be a movie made about your life, hands down, Ryan Gosling would have to have the starring role. There, I said it.
Many congrats to you on all your achievements!
Hello Matt,
First of all I am very excited for you. This book is going to be amazing for Madeline to read when she is old enough to. Good luck with the writing, I know it will be exhausting, but so worth it. And I will be buying a copy of your book for every member of my family, really I will.
Will you be releasing an audio version of your book?? This would be wonderful, especially if you provided the voice. You see my Mother has Multiple Sclerosis and she has problems reading. We rent audio books from the library, and I know she would love to (audio) read your book. Please consider this if you haven’t already. It would be a gift to so many people who cannot read a book with their eyes.
Big hugs to you and Madeline!!
Dee
♥
I hope your book will be release in Canada. The book Rattled of your friend Chrissy is in my personal library and was buy here in Canada
So I hope I will be able to buy youir book here.
Wow I can’t wait for sping 2011, I will graduate from college and your book will be out
You didn’t answer my question about the Twins locking up both the M and M boys. Do you think they have the means to do it? Or should they dish one for some top notch prospects?
Kudos, kudos, kudos to you!
I think what you’re doing is amazing Maddy will be so proud when she looks back and is able to see what you’ve done. I think the book will be fantastic because your story is fantastic. I hope that you keep your voice and style throughout the book because it is beautiful.
I would pre-order now if I could! I look forward to meeting you on your book tour Summer 2011
THANK YOU THANK YOU MATT! – for answering all of our burning questions.
I’m sure we are ALL very PUMPED about this and for madeline, too! I will be buying multiple copies, I’m sure. Please come to Nashville! My son likes blondes
As always….Keep up the great work! Hugs and Strength everyday XOXOXO
Matt — to you, I know these words may become diluted among the many, many people who feel the very same way and say the very same thing, but the feeling certainly isn’t diluted among each of us that you’ve touched in some way. You are an incredible father, an incredible person. And an incredible writer! Third grade? Psh. And Maddy is one sweet little girl! Thank you for sharing your story with so many of us strangers. Means a whole lot. Can’t wait to get my hands on this book! Oh, and I’ll spread the word, for sure. Presents for Christmas of 2011 are already chosen. (And thank you for that!)
Spring 2011 can’t come quickly enough! I love books and read most things I can get my hands on, but there are only a select few authors that I anxiously await their next (or in this case first!) publication. I can’t wait to read the book and hope it opens up even more doors – and hearts – for you and maddie. Please do let us know if at some point we can pre-order!
Wishing you and Maddie all the best – hope you’re having a good summer!
Matt, I am very excited for you. Who knew that the guy that answered the door to a dorky high-schooler for an interview for a paper, would be a world famous author years down the road! Hopefully we can meet up again someday, maybe during your book tour!
Can’t wait. I’ll definitely pre-order it.
never commented on here before but have been a reader for a very long time. just wanted to let you know that i can not wait to get the book!! looking forward to buying several copies and giving them out to friends! best of luck!!
~jamie
So very happy for you!! Good luck with the book (though you don’t need any). What a wonderful gift you are giving to sweet Madeline! Blessings to you both~
LOVE the turtle question & answer!! Though I an not sure if I can wait until 2011.
Hi Matt! Long time reader. So excited about the book! I will certainly buy a few.
I have a weird, random, totally unrelated question. Is Maddy on an American Geetings card? I saw this musical birthday card and I know it’s her on the front. Maddy/random girl is sitting sideways in a wooden highchair slumped over sound asleep. If it’s not her then just know she has a twin. I bought it and I can send you a picture of it (I don’t have a flicker account or anything). It’s been driving me crazy thinking I might “know” this child. Hell, I probably sound like a crazy person (for the record I’m not).
Again, can’t wait for the book. Your story gets me everytime.
Well Fuck! It sounds like it will be an amazing book!
Looking forward to it and as always I will continue to read the blog with tissues in one hand and a cocktail in the other… well when I am not breast feeding of course, because that is just tacky.
Congrats! Can’t wait to read your story. And don’t worry, you won’t disappoint! It will be awesome.
I will so be there when the book releases. I cant wait to read it. I have been following ur blog ever since i read ur story in…? I believe it was people magazine or US (oh well i dont remember). I love to see all the nice pics of ur beautiful daughter and the way you write about your wife is so lovely. Im sure liz is looking down on you now and is so taken back by what u have accomplished in the absence of her presence in the last year. You are admirable on so many levels and I am a big fan of you and your blog.
can i just say that i’m thrilled about the book? i will be buying one for me, one for my sister and maybe a few for my friends. everyone needs to hear your story, see liz’s beautiful face and also pictures of her mini me, maddy.
sorry about my rant…i truly am…but i feel much better for putting it out there.
i hope you don’t get pissed but can i just say that i may die the day that there is another female in your life other than maddy. how shitty is that? i don’t even know you (well, i feel like i do but ..you get the drift) yet i’m already thinking of (and dreading) the day that there is someone in your life and the day that this blog goes down. i cannot imagine what i would do without any more maddy pics or cute stories about what is happening in your lives.
i suck!
i hate myself for being this vested but i can’t help it. i am betting tho that i’m not alone. it is shitty and i know it…i should want only the best for you…and i do….but unfortnately nothing you, me, or anyone else can do to bring that back for you.
So happy for you, and yet still so sad…
Can’t wait for the book..So no movie??Oooo Maaan
Can’t wait for the book, Matt! I know this sounds so, so lame, but I am incredibly proud of you!
Take good care of yourself and give Maddy a huge hug and kiss from your friends out here in Richmond, VA.
Looking forward to the book. I may even PREorder it.
Hope your book tour brings you to Indianapolis. If so, I will be there to introduce Hadley who shares Maddy’s birthday within a few hours and to introduce myself who suffers the same horrible pain you do. And good luck at the conference this weekend. I’m sure you will be fantastic!
wow matt so exciting~~when can we start buying signed advanced copies esp for people who live in bumb fuck eygpt state like arkansas?
so happy for you~~it will be such a great healing tool~
you do such a great job
cc in motion @twitter
For someone who’s not a writer, you sure are one heck of a writer.
…And husband.
…And photographer.
…And storyteller.
…And inspirer. (Is that a word?)
…And father.
Can’t wait to pre-order my many copies of the book and meet you (two?) in Atlanta on your book tour!
Thanks for the insight.
Can you tell your publisher we expect LOTS of photos? Your photos are always an important part of what you’re telling us. Especially the photos of you and Liz at places, it’s never just “we went here” it’s always a emotion accompanying your writing, not just a “Who, where, why” photo.
PS. You’re looking healthy.
So, I’m not sure if I’ve ever commented before, but I’ve been reading for a long time. Our girls are close to the same age, and every time I read a post, I imagine how my husband would be handling it alone (with 2 other older kiddos to boot)….. and every time, I pray that he would handle it as well as Matt.
I am a Labor and Delivery nurse, and I have seen a handful of women die as Liz did. You remind me to pray for and think about those daddies every day. I hope they have found you. I hope they read your book.
Hi Matt…
1st – I sure hope that you include some photos of you, Liz and Maddy in the book! It adds such a “real” and “personal” touch!
2nd – I can’t think of any actress beautiful enough to play your wife, (in the event of a movie deal), nor your daughter for that matter!
3rd – I will be buying multiple copies of your book…I think EVERYONE should know your story! What you’ve gone through and what you’ve done to get through it…You are such an incredible Dad…and Liz would be unimaginably proud!
Last – If you’re ever in the MI (southeast, around Ann Arbor/Detroit area)…I would LOVE to meet your sweet little punkin…and you too, of course! You are an inspiration…that there are Husband’s/Dad’s out there that really are amazing!!!
I am so excited for your book Matt and to read all about the adventures of you and your sweet girl…
Well I sure hope you’re kicking off your book tour here in MN!! I want a signed copy for sure. Best of luck to you on your writing adventures!
I am STILL so very excited and 2011 is too DAMN FAR AWAY!!!!!!!!!! Get to writing, I want it before then!
haha Just kidding.
AND, if I EVER get to CA to see my family, I am SOOO emailing you to meet you and Maddy! I doubt you will ever travel the south to Mississippi so I will see what I can do. I am NOT A STALKER, your story has just helped be a healing part of my wounded life.
I am going to buy a copy or 6, PROMISE and so glad you are NOT editing out your language because it just wouldn’t be YOU.
I used to be surprised when I’d get goose bumps or a bit teary or actually laugh out loud when I read your posts. Now I get it though. Reading your blog is to learn and get inspired and get those goose bumps right along with you. Thanks for letting us in, Matt. So looking forward to your book.
I can’t wait to buy AT LEAST six copies!! So excited for you!! And maybe even meet you and your best girl on the tour!!
what the fuck is wrong with swearing anyway?? it makes me feel good to get a shit and a fuck in somewhere at least a few times every day. it’s kinda like a natural high, maybe it releases some endorphins or something. try it jill – you might like it! and for me personally, i may have felt just the opposite about my husband while we were dating if i had never heard him swear….i might have thought he was a little “stuffy” or some fucked up shit like that………
I will be reading the book and supporting you. You’re amazing in many ways! I know this isn’t what you wanted or asked for but you are an inspiration for all of us. Thank you for sharing maddy and yourself with us.
Question #4 from the bottom:
Will do.
Eagerly.
Hey–When you vidit Chicago on your book tour, do I get a VIP/All Access pass???? I am a MN girl living in the Chi-Town burbs and would love meet up and go to American Girl with my little girl!
Cannot wait for 2011 and the book, this is gonna rock!
Congrats, Matt (and Maddy)! I’ll buy a copy or six. And I hope you guys come to Austin on the tour… You should try to swing it so that your visit coincides with SXSW!
Awesome. Looking forward to your book and always enjoy your blog in a strange stalkerish kind of way. You, Liz and Maddy make a whole lot of us strive to be better parents, partners and friends. Thank you.
I will buy everyone a copy of your book as a present! i love your blog, you are an amazing guy and have one very cute little girl – thanks for sharing it all with us
i am so excited for this book. will have to schedule time off work just to read it right as soon as i get a copy. reading your blog makes such a difference in my day, you have no idea. i will always be an advocate for you and your work.
come visit seattle sometime. (( it photographs well, specially when it is cloudy out ))
oh and gotta love the bastard ! you go bastard….
You are so rad! I am definitley going to keep reading your blog, totally down to buy a bunch of books and have already told everyone I know about you…you are an amazing man! Thanks for being you and sharing yourself with us.
Hope it is released in Australia!!! Any chances of a book tour here
!!!!Australia would love to have you.
BUT if it is not released in Australia I will definitley be ordering one off the net!!!
Best wishes
Em
from Australia
I will be anxiously awaiting the release of your book! It’s gonna be awesome!!!!
P.S. I am glad you will be swearing in the book..duh that’s a part of who you are it wouldn’t feel like a book written by you if there wasn’t some swearing in it!
Seriously. So, so amazing that you’re writing a book. I’m confident that your book will be awesome! I will buy a copy for me. Then I’ll buy several more for friends and family. I can’t wait!
Matt and Madeline-
I could read this blog forever. You are a very talented and well spirited person. I am 24 years old & had a baby girl one year ago. Her name is Maya. I cannot imagine what you have gone through but I admire your strength and I understand now that I have a daughter of my own where that strength comes from- Your goal as a parent is to give your child the best life you can possibly give them. You are doing a great job. It is truly the best thing that I have ever experienced– JUST WATCHING her grow everyday. Thank you for being an inspiration and keeping Liz alive.
Love,
Cassie
WTG.
I will buy one. Or six. It better not suck!! haha. I love your blog and your style of writing, makes me feel emotional and melancholy and then I laugh my ass off every time you swear over something you or Maddy did or some demented toy. I hope you keep up the blog…not forever, but at least until we all tell you it’s ok to leave us
Matt,
Can’t wait to pre-order my copy (or six) from barnes and noble, but I guess I will have to wait…A YEAR AND A HALF! lol Congrats!!
Awesome!!! Can’t wait for the book and I will definitely spread the word! Congrats to you AND to Maddy! Definitely the most precious & priceless gift she will ever be given!
Cool, crack open a PBR and toast to yourself and Madeline for all that you’ve accomplished in the past year or so! You deserve it.
PS- hope the conference goes well for you this weekend! Say hi to Jackie for me
)
excuse u
pls don’t say no to the movie, as i posed you should be played by ryan goslin…
please, please, please have it distributed OUTSIDE of the US! PLEASEEEEE!!!! i know it’ll be available in US online sites, but it might not be available in other countries, you know.
heh.
and if by some bad twist of luck it won’t be available here (in the philippines), can you just send me a copy matt?
question: will your book include photos?
answer: maybe. we’re still working out some details.
Matt, I cannot imagine your book without photographs that tell the rest of the story every time. I truly believe your photos are so intrinsic to your story that to not include them would be a serious publishing error. (Yes, a stand-alone book of your photos would be very welcome. Next time.) But Liz’ sweet face – adoring, laughing, being patient at ‘another picture’ – is vital to help bring her to life for all of us. Maddy’s remarkable similarity in face, stature, beautiful eyes and hair, her expressions of intensity, whimsy and joy need to be seen as well. And you: your courage, determination, humor, love, shyness, sincerity, friendliness – that is who you are. Not just words…style. Your photography reveals your attention to detail, balance, color, and creative artistry in a way that no ‘snapshot on the cover ‘ could possibly convey. It’s part and parcel, Matt. I definitely hope ‘to hear’ your voice both in prose and photos. Whatever is decided, I will buy many books, tell many people, and wait many moons. Oregon awaits. Hurry.
P.S. Thanks Bastard! – you said it well, for all of us creeps!
I can see why you picked that publisher. They seem to be people that get the whole emotion thing. What an opportunity. Instead of all the grief books out there…I think yours could become a much better example. How to survive, with grace and dignity. Congratulations on this huge achievement. Anja.
Matt, I continue to be amazed at your strength. We will continue to support you through reading your blog, buying your book and sharing your story, just like we have done – only ten times more when the book comes out! And you are a writer, you just don’t realize it. Your words come from your heart, which is a very difficult process for many.
Keep on keeping on – Maddy is doing awesome, and that is a tribute to your excellence in parenting. It’s a tough age, that’s for sure, but you’re doing it. Nice work with the hair – my dad was with me when I was little and I had many hair-dos where it was just swiped over to one side. He mastered a braid in no time… I have faith in you
Can’t wait for the book!
Matt,
Thankyou for being so open with your life/experiences/feelings/thoughts. You have got to be so proud of yourself (and we all know that Liz would be) that you have taken the time to channel your energy in ways that can help to heal people that you will never meet, while you are healing yourself. Isn’t that so cool? This challenging legacy is allowing you the opportunity to comfort and heal and change the outcomes of countless numbers of people? Your blog has changed the way I view everyday activites. I am much more aware of savoring the “small” things in life. And I have you to thank for that. Speaking as a person who lost a parent as a child, I can tell you, without a doubt, that Maddy will cherish the blog & book for her entire life – just as she will cherish you for being the kid of daddy who would take the time to be sure that she knows her mother.
Great post! Thanks for sharing your life with all of us. You’re an amazing father and husband and I dont know how you do it all and stay sane! Would love for you to incl. Jax, FL on the book tour. One question: are you guys planning another 5K for Liz this year??
Woo hoo! I can’t wait to buy my copy of your book in 2011! Hopefully your tour will come to Dallas/Ft. Worth so that I can get you to sign it. I have been following your blog since it pretty much was started and I just love your witty and honest style of writting. I have been telling friends about your blog for a long time so I’ll be sure to tell about your book. I can’t wait to hear more about it!
Matt you crack me up. I think you’re great. I don’t know how you do it all.
As far as the cussing goes, you go right ahead. My husband has Stage 4 recurrent Colon Cancer as well as Cystic Fibrosis. He is now on Hospice. His time left here is very limited. We have 2 sons Jacob is 12 and Calob is 10. I find that I too am taking on a serious potty mouth. Think it has to do with all this shitty stress that comes along with knowing that your spouse, your one true love is dying and eventually going to be gone and there isn’t a damn thing you can do to stop it. It sucks.
Hi matt, dont stress about negative comments! if they wont leave name etc, then you know, they are not worth you!
Sending love to you and Maddy!!!
I can’t wait to read the book. I have loved reading your blog, this is my first time posting anything at all. You are one amazing person and father. I am so glad that you have shared your life with us.
I’m so, so, happy that the universe (insert deity of preference here) saw fit to bless you with such amazing experiences and opportunities (OBVIOUSLY, you’d give them all back to have your wife back). I can’t help but feel intense joy about the fact that good things somtimes do happen to good people. The time, energy and emotional resources you’ve put into sharing your story with the world definitely makes you “good people” (in my, don’t truly know you, but feel like I have a decent snapshot of your character, opinion).
Continue to take care of yourself as you put your tale to paper!!!!
I have been reading since the Star Tribune article and will continue to do so. I’m glad to hear all the good news about the book. I think you have a fabulous style of writing and I’m guessing your book will be fantastic. Congrats.
Matt:
I have to disagree with you–you are a writer! I am excited about the book and will be waiting for it. I check your blog daily and watch for new pictures of Matty. Thanks for the answers to all our questions. Congratulations Matt.
2011? Well Shit! Hellofa long time away! But I’m so excited for you and Maddy. I can’t wait to put it next to my other book of Photos by you!!!
I’ll be buying it for sure, and if you need help translating it into Greek you know who to call!
ps Nicole: your comment made me lol…
Congrats again on the book, I’m so so excited about it, can’t wait to buy a few copies, hopefully you will publish it in spanish as well, so I can share with my family, I have tried to explain to them in my own words the feelings and emotions you have transmitted to me through your blog, but I can never seem to be able to express it as well as you do, and I tell them, “I wish you could read Matt’s blog”. I’m glad to see you got the package I sent for Maddy, and that she is wearing some of the outfits I sent to her. It is such a great feeling to be able to do that, specially for such a sweet precious girl like her. I hope you keep this blog for as long as you can, I can’t imagine not being able to read it every morning like I do now. Take care
I will be buying multiple copies of the book.
I do hope a book tour happens and I really hope you come to Philly!
I can’t wait to buy the book!! Hopefully you’ll come to dallas on your book tour!!
I think the book will be a great read and inspiring to many. Saving now for my copy (or six!)
Yay! I can’t wait for the book! The tentative title of the book is really great, I teared up when I read it. I wish you all the best in your new adventure. This is something that you and Madeline can share and I think that is so awesome. I look forward to upcoming updates about the book. BTW, the wienermobile pics are so freakin cool! Definitely one of the best events ever! Thanks for sharing!
Wow! Sounds terrific. Can’t wait to read it…
HI Matt, Awesome! So excited for you and Maddy! I’ve been reading for the past 13 mos since I came across your story on Storked! I will definitely buy more than ONE copy, and will definitely LOVE to meet you and Maddy at one of the book signings! I can’t wait! Watching you and Maddy grow is amazing and an inspiration! Liz would be so proud of you! Keep doing what you’re doing and keep writing the blog, because I check in every day to see if there’s a new post. Wow! I can’t wait till 2011!!!!XXOO
I can’t wait to read it!!!! YAY!! SO excited for you guys!
You know where to come if you need some book art, yo! So, so excited for you! We would take out stock in your book, if we could! We are proud to be your friends; your energy and spirit inspire us everyday and you set the highest example of what “fatherhood” should be! Now, if we would just leave you alone so you can write the book! Love, the Rose’s
let us know when we can preorder your book! so exciting! also…is the picture on the bottom of your page on the banks of the mississippi here in STP? they took down that xcel smoke stack in the background this year…not sure if you heard. skyline isn’t quite the same without it.
I will be buying multiple copies of your book. Good luck.
Best of luck with the book! Excited about your opportunity. I know you’d rather have Liz than a book but it’s really, really great that you can tell your story and that you have the foundation and book as a lasting legacy.
Off to MN next week. It’s SO hot in Houston and my Mpls inlaws have a FIRE going today. Seriously.
I’ve been following your blog for awhile and am beyond thrilled for you with the book. I can’t wait to read it and spread the word. When do the pre-orders start?
Matt, I’ve never commented but check your blog daily. Your journey has been incredible…incredibley sad and incredibley blessed. I’m so happy you are writing a book. You are an encouragement to all of us. None of us knows what’s behind corner as we go through life and you are living proof that God never gives us more than we can handle. Thank you for sharing your story.
I think we’ll all be buying the book. And you’ll be autographing them for us, right?????
BTW, check out my blog today, I have a funny sex story. Totally unrelated to your book. LOL But just amusing in that “everybody has a story to tell” way!
Seriously…you’re awesome! I love the question that you ended this post with and I love the answer you gave. I am for sure buying your book and I talk about you to my friends all the time. It’s funny how much I reference your blog in my day to day life. I call you “my blogger guy”. Hope I have introduced at least a couple people to you and your awesome daughter! Good luck with the book Matt! And I hope you keep blogging!
Yay! Thanks for answering all the questions! I swear from the time I started reading your blog, I always knew someday (as I am sure many others have) I would be reading your book. I can’t wait to get my copy (plus a few more for friends and family)!! Christine D.
“i will do it all, i just won’t sleep very much.”
—You don’t sleep much now! lol
Waiting with anticipation
I can’t wait to get your book!!! I’m very grateful you’re writing it. I hope your tour leads you to St. Louis! My family would love to meet you and take you both to dinner and you must see Forest Park!
I was wondering if you will update Liz’s photo section with more photos? I would love to see photographs of both of you at Maddy’s age and so forth.
Congrats again!
Lori
I cannot wait to read the book. Please come to Philadelphia on your book tour!!
I love Q&A!
Hope the tour makes a stop in Jacksonville, FL!
I seldom comment, but I think of you and Maddy often. I would have loved to have known Liz, and I look forward to reading your book. Thanks for sharing your life with all of us. You are doing a great job, and I’m sure Liz would be very proud of you.
and now all you have to do is let the thoughts and words flow, right? easier said then done. I always think that it would be great if someone could download my brain because i’ve written a million little things in my head since the loss of my partner, as I’m sure you have too. I wish you the best of luck and the peace for you and your sweet little girl.
Well, I knew the answers to most of the questions.
Glad to hear about the swearing. You want Maddie to learn about swearing in context at home! Not on the playground.
BTW, waiting for the video of Maddie saying “Dada.” (I’m sure eventually there will be video of her swearing, but that won’t be for at least a little while.)
I have never commented before. I have been one of those silent readers since your very first article in the MPLS Star Tribune. I have faithfully read your blog and looked at photos and can never wait to hear the progress on Madeline or what you to have been up to. You are an inspiration and an amazing father! To be able to come as far as you have come after all that is happened is just simply amazing. I CANT wait for your book to be released. I will be first in line at the bookstore to buy it!!!!
could i pay you to not write the book? i’ll pay double if you stop the blog as well.
Thanks for the Q&A. We’d love to meet you if you are ever in south Florida. Keep up the good work – you are an excellent father.
So excited fo you and Maddy. What a terrific treasure for her to have for her lifetime! And amazing coming from someone who is “not a writer”. Good for you, can’t wait to read it!!
I am a mom of triplets and I just came across your blog. I am amazed at your strength. Your daughter is a very lucky lady to have such an amazing dad. And I’ll def buy the book when it comes out!
When I buy a copy will you sign it please?
Matt you are a great inspiration to parents all over the world. Your love for Maddie is such an awe inspiring thing to see. Thank you for sharing Liz, Maddie and yourself with the world. I am looking forward to your book.
Oh yeah, we have the same flower dress that Maddie has. My daughter is a few days older than Maddie and has the same white hair.
I have followed your blog since you were on Oprah. We have a very similar story, we lost my sister during childbirth with triplets. It has been very difficult for our family. My nephews all survived but my sister was taken off life support a few days after they were born. My sister was 40 years old and her death was very unexpected. I read your blog with tears in my eyes on most days. I appreciate you being able to turn this into a postive part of your life for you and Maddy.
No Doubt it will hit the best seller’s list. I watch everyday for you to write more. I hate the waiting and hate that we have to wait untill 2011 for the book. But I will wait and I will faithfully read your blog in the mean time. You are doing an amazing job. Keep it up!!
I am so happy for you.
Congrats Matt.
I can’t wait til 2011…
Is there a chance I could just go ahead and pre-order it?
:-p
I’m so excited for you and for all of us who can’t wait for the book to come out. Thanks for answering so many of the questions on everyone’s mind. Sign me up for a book or six!
Very happy for you and very happy for Madeline. Your book will be great.
Thanks for sharing all of that info. Thought I would share this with you:
http://www.startribune.com/local/51055497.html?elr=KArksLckD8EQDUoaEyqyP4O:DW3ckUiD3aPc:_Yyc:aUUX
Funny stuff!
Brilliant answer to the turtle question.
You bet your ass I’m buying the book! And one for all my friends! Keep it up, man!
How exciting for you and Maddie! I love reading your blog and I find it to be very inspirational. I’m looking forward to reading the book. I know you said the title is still tentative, but I love it. it brought tears to my eyes. I’m sure your book will be a success. Its obvious you have an amazing amount of people who are very supportive of you and Maddie.
The book will be wonderful. Congrats! You probably won’t get a wink of sleep until it’s out!
Can’t wait for the Canadian leg of the book tour!
)
two things:
1. i think you’re amazing.
2. are you secretly john mccrea, lead singer of cake?
Very happy for you and Madeline! Can’t wait for your book. I will definitely buy one. I’ll also tell my whole family to buy the book x’s 100
So glad this didn’t happen last weekend. Phew…
http://www.channel3000.com/news/20093771/detail.html
Great post. You have an engaging style, great humor and some really touching insights drawn from raw emotion. Beautiful memories to share… and more to make with Maddy at your side. What a journey the book writing will be. Sending encouragement now and throughout the process. Congrats.
I am so excited for you guys…I can’t wait for your book to come out….I will definitely buy multiple copies for everyone!! Your blog is amazing, and I look forward to reading about your new adventures with Maddie and seeing your gorgeous pictures!! Hopefully you don’t forget your Canadian “creeps” on your book tour…we would LOVE to see you and Maddie…Victoria BC is gorgeous, and I have an 18 month old girl who would love a playdate with Maddie
I am so happy and excited for the both of you!!
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090718/ap_on_fe_st/us_odd_wienermobile_wreck
Oh, and I’m really looking forward to the book!
Oscar Mayer Wienermobile crashes into Wis. home….. that sucks
Obviously, others have posted about the wienermobile before I got the chance to mention it…bummer, eh?
I’m SO damn excited about the book! I’m sure you won’t disappoint. It will be wonderful and I do plan to by a copy…or six
to give as gifts. I’m so very happy for you and Maddy…what a gift you will be giving her with this book.
I’d send you some sleep if that was at all possible…you’ll probably need a lot of it. It will all be worth it in the end though. Good luck, guy!! Hugs to you and Maddy!!
I’m very excited about your book! Looking forward to purchasing one and fingers crossed you are somewhere near me here in the middle of nowhere Illinois on your book tour! Much luck!
Matt –
Some devastating/shocking/hilarious (you pick the word) news for you re: the Wienermobile:
http://www.lohud.com/article/20090718/NEWS05/307180019
Matt, your book will be pure”Awesomeness” nothing less. I can not wait for its release. Congrats.
Pam Briar 59
I can’t wait to read the book..
Looking forward to your book. Are you gathering emails to remind us “older” folks about the book’s release date? If so, please add mine.
Congrats on the book! I am excited for you and I will be buying a copy! Hope you come to the Chicago ‘burbs on your book tour!
I can’t wait to read the book!! It will be nice ( not even close to the right word) to see the whole picture since most of us can’t even begin to imagine what it’s like for you.
all books get turned into movies lately…
I’d watch a movie about your life if there were one!
CONGRATS, Matt and Maddy!
Congrats on the book deal! Even though you don’t believe you are a writer, your words have touched many people across this country. What a wonderful tribute to your wife, and gift to your daughter. I will, along with 6 (just 6?) of my friends, be there to buy the book when it hits Indianapolis book stores.
i can only imagine how excited you must be. i must say, i’m excited too! (also, that’s an awesome-looking book collection you’ve got yourself there…i’m looking forward to adding yours to mine.)
have a good one!
ps- hope your speech went well!
Totally off topic: Where do you get the sippy tops for Maddy’s Born Free bottles? I have looked for them for Clare…no luck. (sheepishly saying….Clare still uses a bottle and I really need to get rid of it one of these days!!! She is a month older than Maddy so whenever I see her with a picture of your Maddy with a sippy cup, I get Mom guilt!)
Way to go! Can’t wait for it to come out! Maybe you could stop in SC on your tour?
Best of luck with your writing, Matt.
You have a fantastically refreshing style, and a lot to say. This book has important work to do. Rock on!
Can’t wait for the book!! 2011 seems so far away!
I can’t wait to get your book, Matt. Very excited for you!
Oh, and regarding the swearing? It’s apparently a proven fact that swearing helps with pain! Man, I’d much rather swear than take drugs!! So fuckin’ keep on swearing, Matt!
@Meg…CT
you can get them here.
I dont think you could possibly disappoint anyone with this
Matt…thanks. I will order them immediately so I can get rid of the bottle so her pediatrician doesn’t scold me!!
Totally unrelated but did you see this?! I thought of you guys right away!
http://www.comcast.net/video/crash-weinermobile-goes-wild/1188744538/Comcast/1188392831/
Matt, I saw you on Oprah and started reading your blog. After many hours of reading I am caught up to today. I cannot believe the journey that you have been on for the past year and a half. You can be proud of all that you have done. I am a 27 and have a husband and two kids, Charlize(3) and Brytan (.5). Since reading your blog I am living each day with a new found appreciation for my husband and children. Thank you for that. By the way, my sister in law lives in San Diego, and we are in Milwaukee, if you or we are ever in our or your area, I would love to meet you and Maddy! Talk to you soon!
Please tell the internet that I would be interested in some of its generosity.
Glad to read this Q&A, I can’t wait to read your book!
this is amazing. what you have been through, all the good that is in your life as a result of something tragic…it seems the love around you is Liz’s. How blessed you must feel to have the opportunity for this.
Been reading your blog for sometime now, since McMama first mentioned Maddy and you. Glad you are writing a book. Looking forward to reading it. Thanks for sharing your stories and life. Many blessings! Jen from Cali
Just in case you haven’t seen this yet… apologies in advance if you have seen this already…
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/31975215/ns/us_news-weird_news/
Oh yeah, and congratulations on the book!
Best of Luck with the book Matt!
You and Maddy are blessed by Liz every moment of every day, and, this book will surely be another blessing for Maddy and her future
I know I will be buying 1 or 6 copies
I think although people always say “life is so short”, they truly don’t even think about it sometimes…
Thanks for sharing your joys and your sorrows with everyone.
Best Wishes!
Shelley
So proud of you for doing this… you’re a hero. Really.
Matt, did ya hear on the news the weiner mobile was in an accident in a (scony)Wisconsin driveway? Yup, backed in to turn around and fucked up the house! GO WEINERS!
I love this shit. Wish I could be the navigator!
I cannot wait for your book!!! I love following you on Twitter. I’m bummed that I have to wait til 2011 to read it. But, I understand it’s going to take a long time to write it. I can only imagine how emotionally exhausting parts of it are going to be. I know you blog now but, going into those special stories of the past that you’ve merely touched on here will break your heart.
I will buy several copies because I know people in here at work are excited to read it too and I don’t want to share!
I’m so excited for it. I can’t wait.
As so many others are, I look forward to reading your book. It’s a powerful gift you give Madeline, this gift of her history.
Congrats on the book deal!! I’ll be sure to buy at least 2, one to read and one to hopefully get signed by you… but I don’t know if I’d be brave enough to ask you to sign it at a book signing… EEP!
) I already tell just about everyone that’ll listen about your blog/life/daughter/music taste (BTW, I “discovered Iron & Wine through you and your blog and am eternally grateful!! If you could, one day, post a list of your top ten fave bands I would be even MORE grateful!!) if I had your book to give away as gifts so that others could understand how brave you are and what a loving husband/father you are I’d totally do that! Thank you for continuing to share your and Maddy’s life with us!
Peace to you and yours!
Looking forward to an honest, raw, and real book about being a single dad. It will be refreshing to have a reality show in pages, not made up on a screen. Thank you.
The one question you didn’t answer…it was asked several times…was about your religious beliefs. That was one of the answers I was most looking forward to.
Congratulations on the book deal…I’m very much looking forward to reading it.
Congrats! I can’t wait to read the book. I’m even happier to know that you will be continuing to blog!
you are in my heart.
Every day I drive past the power plant in the picture at the bottom of your blog. And every day, I think of you. And Madeline. And Liz. I love that picture of the two of you.
I am one of those people that reads but rarely comments. Do you know how I found your blog? I saw Liz’s obituary in the Strib. I had been paging through, looking for a story. I saw this beautiful woman, and wondered how someone so vibrant could have died. I read through the obituary, and I said to my husband, “She must have died right after she had her baby”. And then I burst into tears. I was a new mom myself, and I felt so much sorrow for all of you. I googled her name so I could figure out what had happened. And I found your blog. I don’t know why I had to share that now, but I did. Madeline is growing into such a beautiful little girl. Thank you for sharing her and you with all of “us”.
as with everyone else, i am very excited about the book. the release date is farther away than i had hoped. so, yes, i will buy a copy (or six). also, i freaking LOVED the photo’s from sequoia… especially the one of you holding maddy up in the meadow (very tall trees)… and of lauren and maddy sitting on the ground (among the very tall trees). i went to sequoia for my 6th grade camp! long time ago… now i live among the very tall trees in the pacific northwest. anyway, glad you had a good time (sans the screaming).
Looking forward to reading the book and still hoping you are able to work the words “robot”, “bacon” and “fuck” into the title somehow.
Miss M looks more like Liz and Awesome Auntie Deb with every photo you take.
And I also will be purchasing your book! Have been following you for numerous months now, and love your blog!
you blogging about writing your book = getting me excited to read it!!
Keep up the great work! Always remember you are fuckin awesome!
I am so happy and proud of you for doing this book!
You are a great writer! I love your blog!
and your little girl is the cutest child ever!!!
Keep being a great daddY!
Tara Pakosta
Matt,
I’m so happy that the world has found you and is inspired by you and you in turn fueled by your love for Liz and “my niece”.
It is great to see you thriving and working tirelessly for that precious mini Liz.
I offer any editing you might want or need. Hope to see you both soon.
Love you mucho . .
Ari Mayer
PS I can’t believe I am not the only Ari on your blog
Matt, I am a retired third grade teacher and you are writing well beyond third grade with the insight you are providing your readers. You are writing from the heart and that’s what writing is about, write what you know and feel. You certainly are doing that. It’s just heartbreaking that it had to happen for you to become a writer. Now you are on a journey no one ever thinks will happen to them and raising that precious little gift will be your story forever. You take care and if you ever need someone to throw questions at about your writing let me know. God bless and may He give you all the strength you need to walk this journey.
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