like the last update,
there’s a lot
to cover, and i’m
gonna let
a lot of the
photos do the talking.
so…
we’ve settled in.
(somewhat) normal sleep
schedules, plus a
daily routine equals a good
thing for all of us.
we’ve been here
long enough now
that all the things
that at first were
unfamiliar have
become the norm.
well, maddy still
goes crazy when
she sees a
cow or a monkey,
but everything else
is pretty much normal
to her now.
so (almost) every
morning we start the
day by jumping in
an auto rickshaw
and heading out
for breakfast.
usually it’s in
the spot where
i do my writing,
but we switch it
up from time
to time in order
to have a little
variety in our lives.
breakfast is a
break for all
of us.
why?
because one of
the services that
restaurants don’t advertise,
but almost all provide
without hesitation,
is free babysitting
while you eat.
it’s totally
and completely awesome.
(this happens at only one restaurant in los angeles).
after breakfast we have a
little play time.
maddy has a new
morning routine…
instead of
apple throwing,
she throws sticks
into the koi
pond at the oberoi.
after play time,
rachel and maddy
head back to our
apartment to take
a nap, while i
spend the entire
day working on
my book.
according to rachel,
madeline is down
to one, two-hour
nap per day,
which is awesome.
after nap time,
rachel and maddy
walk to the
park, window shopping
along the way.
at the park maddy
asserts her independence
and walks where ever
her curiosity takes her.
sometimes she
climbs things,
but most of the
time she just walks
around and makes
new friends.
her favorites are
still the men,
and for
good reason, i guess.
the women
poke at her
and pinch her cheeks.
afterwards, they often
try to pick
her up.
and when they
do these
things, maddy usually
takes exception and
smacks them around.
(i know it’s sort of self defense, but i’m trying to discourage such behavior).
most of the time
she loves kids,
but there was
once instance that
left sort of
a bad taste in
her mouth.
meet some kids
who wanted to
be maddy’s friend:
the little boy
was a sweet and
gentle little thing,
his sister appeared
to be the same.
well.
she wanted to pick
maddy up and
bring her over
to her parents who
were sitting
on a nearby bench.
maddy was busy,
watching a caterpillar
inch across the
walking path.
despite repeated attempts,
the little
girl just could
not divert
maddy’s attention away
from the caterpillar.
so she walked
around madeline and
stomped on the
caterpillar, killing
it right in
front of my child.
maddy said, “whoa!”
and just stared at
the girl.
satisfied, the girl
turned around
and walked away.
one of these
children may
end up to be
a serial killer,
but i don’t
think it’s gonna
be mine.
back to our daily routine…
after playtime in
the park, rachel
and maddy find me
in my writing
spot and then
we take off
for dinner
we usually
dine with friends,
all of whom
are excited to
spend time with madeline
while tolerating
my incessant
talk about my book.
when i’m not
writing we try to
get out and
explore the city.
we ride around
town in auto rickshaws,
and i take photos
of the things
we see.
we have auto
rickshaw dance parties
we buy ridiculous things
we go to
the places that
liz
loved,
and i
tell madeline all
about her mom.
mostly we just
have fun.
…
last weekend i
decided that we
needed to get out of
bangalore for the weekend.
i’d been staring
at a computer for
far too
long and there
were a few things
that i wanted
madeline and
rachel to see and
and experience.
besides, saturday
was the 24th,
and sunday was
something else,
so it was a
good time for us
to get away.
so…
saturday morning we
jumped in a
car and headed
toward mysore.
we stopped for breakfast
but we were distracted
by monkeys.
i took a lot of photos
out the window
of the car.
and we stopped
at places of
historical significance
and it was hard
to be in the same
places i visited with
liz
fewer than three
years ago.
but it was necessary.
and it was great
to have maddy
there with me.
at one point
i saw maddy running
because the ground
was hot
(settle down, i wasn’t abusing her poor feet. shoes must be removed in most of these religious places, even for kids).
as i watched her
run to get
her feet to a
cooler spot,
i thought about
a photo
i took of her
mom doing the same
thing in the
same place.
but the trip to
mysore wasn’t
all hard.
it was after all,
maddy’s 19 month birthday,
so we had
as much fun
as we possibly could.
on top of seeing all the
great sites,
we rode:
a horse.
a camel.
and best of all,
an elephant.
she seemed to love
her joy rides
until was accosted
by an elephant.
the elephant was only
trying to be
nice when she placed
her trunk
on madeline,
but maddy didn’t
see it that way.
and when the
elephant tried to attack
me, well, she
gave it the same
treatment she usually
reserves for women.
(rachel also got accosted by an elephant)
that night we stayed
in an old palace
overlooking one
of the most
incredible gardens
any of us
have ever seen.
before dinner,
we played for
a bit
then we took a
long walk
through the garden.
i hoped that
the walk through
the garden
would help maddy
burn some of her energy,
but when bed time
came, she was the
only one not ready
to sleep.
she ran around
the hotel room like a
crazy person, climbing on
chairs, switching the
lights on and off
and poking me until
i opened my eyes.
not fun considering
we had to be up
and out of
the hotel
by 6:00am.
the next morning.
october 25th.
19 months
earlier i never
would have guessed
we would be where
we were at that moment.
that’s both literal
and figurative.
6:00am.
standing outside
of a palace
converted into a hotel,
waiting for
our driver to
pick us up so
we could go
bathe elephants.
yeah.
seemed like the
best way to
forget about
a horrible anniversary.
we watched the
sun rise
over the fields
then we all
feel asleep.
i woke up
somewhere along
the way, and
saw fog
covering almost everything.
and soon enough
we were there.
maddy was still
in her pajamas,
which i thought
looked pretty awesome.
we took the
boat across the river
and wandered around
the elephant camp.
rachel helped me
get maddy into
her swimsuit,
and not a moment
to soon, ’cause
the elephants
were on the move
and ready to
be bathed.
we read a couple
of warning signs
before we got started.
i snapped some
photos as rachel
and maddy watched
the first elephant
go in.
soon enough they
were in the water
and working
hard to clean
the giant beasts.
rachel had a
great time getting
up close and
personal with her
new friends
while i helped
maddy get used to
the water.
eventually she got
really excited
and started trying
to swim out
to the elephants.
we had a great
time hanging out
but eventually bath
time was over
and maddy was
ready to climb.
maddy laughed at
me as i mourned
the loss of
my favorite shoes
(that’s mud, not elephant shit).
we spent a
bit more time
with the elephants
before heading back
across the river.
it was a short
walk back to
the car
then we were
headed toward
a buddhist monastery.
took a few photos
along the way
before finally arriving.
we went inside
and all were
in awe of what
we saw.
maddy even managed
to be quiet for
a few minutes
we went outside
and she tried
to hide from
some women who
wanted to
take her photo.
we continued our
tour of the grounds
then maddy started
stealing shoes.
the time came
to get back on
the road to bangalore.
maddy and rachel
slept almost the
entire trip.
i rested a bit
but woke up
in time
to capture a
few more photos.
we got back to
bangalore later than
we hoped.
we were supposed
to catch up for
tea with a
few friends and
then go out
to dinner.
well.
when we got
to the tea shop,
i walked into
a surprise party.
yeah.
it was my
birthday.
and i can’t think of
a better
way to have
spent it.
this week…
now is a good
time to discuss the
word explosions
going on here
in india.
first.
the words i’ve
had in me,
mostly unspoken and unshared
for 19+ months,
are spilling forth
from my head
and landing
on the page.
it feels better than
i could have imagined
to finally
commit them to
my hard drive…
i hoped that this trip
would bring the
words out of me
but i didn’t
think they’d come
this easily.
call it exercising demons
or whatever,
but if you see
more smiles
on my face
in the photos i
post, well, this is
part of the reason.
(let’s just hope my editor likes what i’ve sent thus far).
the second word
explosion is coming
from maddy.
she says something
new almost
every second that
she’s awake
(and i caught her at saying actual words in her sleep the other day).
eshwari swears that
maddy even speaks
a little tamil.
it’s amazing to
hear what’s coming out
of her mouth
these days,
and it’s been
so much fun
to see her growing up
right before my eyes.
i wrote all
day monday,
trying to get
to a place
i needed to be,
and tuesday i
took a break
to see some more
sites with maddy,
rachel and eshwari.
we had been
here before.
and we’ll continue
seeing what
we saw,
so that maddy
can have something,
come connection.
and we’ll have
tons of fun
doing it.
312 Comments
It’s quite remarkable just how much like her mum Maddy is. Remarklable.
You are giving her the most amazing life. What more could she ask for? You are doing an incredible job.
Wow.
I dunno what else to say.
What a great post.
Liz looks like an angel in those photos.
Maddy is more precious than ever!
Thank you for sharing so much with us. I can’t wait for your book.
Did Maddy really slap that lady? So freaking awesome!
Every single word, in this post, was wonderful to read,and all of the photos are beautiful! You are definitely a hit as a writer, Matt!!!!
love it all – thanks for sharing!
What an amazing journey! I love the photos of Liz and Maddy at the same place! She is going to love those when she’s older.
P.S.
The photo comparisons of Liz to you & Maddy give me chills. But, at the same time, they are truly wonderful!
Holy crap. Seeing the pics from a few years ago and the ones from now has me in tears. I have noticed you smiling more in pictures, which is good to see. I can’t wait to read your book!
These pictures are just fantastic! Keep them coming! BTW…we share a birthday! Happy Birthday to you!
Lisa in Pittsburgh
This blog is amazing… thanks for sharing such intimate moments with your daughter here for the world. I was moved by everything you said and all the pics and video you took with your little cutie pie!
Thanks again for sharing
::gasp::
Matt Logelin – you make me proud!
What a wonderful post. Glad to see you’re having such a good time — and being so productive to boot!
What an amazing trip! You are creating awesome memories!
What a great update Matt. Im not a religious person persay but the close up photo of Liz and then Maddy right under it honestly gave me a feeling that she is smiling down from heaven watching the two of you explore the world together.
It brought tears to my eyes.
Looking forward to your next update.
Beautiful post Matt! What a wonderful thing you are doing for Maddy, and I’m glad you’re finding peace through your writing. Thank you for sharing your journey.
F*cking incredible…
WOW Matt! This is such a great post! So glad to hear everything is going well and the words are just a flowing! I cannot wait, repeat, CANNOT wait to read your book! I can’t beleive how much Maddy reminds me of Liz! She is just too precious, Matt! Congrats on being such a wonderful father! Can’t wait till the next post! Much love to you all!
These photos are stunning and Maddy looks like she’s having a wonderful time. You are doing such a great job.
Thank you for sharing this. What an awesome experience you are all having. I never thought I wanted to visit India, but these photos have changed my mind.
Loved the post Matt! The pictures of Liz and then you and Maddy in the same places are so great. They put tears in my eyes. You are giving Maddy such a gift. Can’t wait to hear more about your journey.
The photos of Liz in the places then the photos of Maddy, makes me want to cry.
Everything is great.
I feel LIke I have been to India!!
thank-you, Matt. more than you know. your words are healing. I am SO glad the writing is coming. I have always been able to express myself through writing, and it is healing indeed. how amazing you can be there, just where you and LIz were!
oh-and happy birthday!!!!
you are all 3 looking amazing!!!
blessings,
tami
I have been reading your blog since you were in People magazine and I must say it has been an honor to be a part of yours and Maddy’s life. My husband and I have a three year old daughter and, well, your blog makes me feel so lucky that we have been able to raise her together. It is easy to take that for granted. This post in particular made me tear up, seeing the pictures of Liz in the same places Maddy was now standing. I know Liz is looking down and smiling at this. You are an inspiration, I think of you two often and always look forward to your blog posts. And I can’t wait for your book! Good luck and keep up the amazing job you are doing with Maddy. Thank you so much for your words and your pictures.
Wow, love everything about this post. Maddie is so adorable and so grown up. I love seeing all of the pictures of her and then Liz. Maddie is going to love that, knowing that she walked in her mother’s footsteps. Your India pictures are amazing; I’m going to share this with a friend who’s daughter lives in India. She goes there probably once a year so I’m sure she’ll love the pictures. Maybe the next book should be photos of India. Can’t wait to read the book!
amazing times…maddy is beautiful. 18/19 months was my favorite time by far…SO much learning going on. congrats on the word explosions of your own, it seems the trip has been good to you…
Beautiful.
Matt, I’m so glad that you are able to take this wonderful adventure and to show Maddy the world. Your pictures are wonderful and I feel like I’m there with you.
Glad to hear that the words are flowing and your getting some relief from the writing. I’m sure what you’re writing is wonderful and your editor is going to love it. I can’t wait to read your book!
Maddy is looking so much like her mama. They’re both just stunning.
Maddy is so so so beautiful! I have been following your blog for some time now & just admire so much at how you are raising her! You seem to be doing an amazing job and Lil Maddy is so lucky to have such a great “daddy!” I can not wait to read your book!
beautiful. the place and Maddy and Liz. So great for you to give her this gift. Sharing all you can of her mom with Maddy. Keep up the wonderful adventure called life.
Beautiful post, beautiful baby I mean little girl. I can’t wait for the next one.
Amazing post and awesome pictures! I so want to go visit India! Nice to see you smiling so much and so obviously at peace and content. You and Maddy deserve it all. Love all the comparison pics of Maddy and Liz – stunning, simply stunning.
Love all of the photos, especially the connection ones. The last one is REALLY cool. What a cute little swimsuit, too. I’m glad you’re finding some therapy there with your little girl.
She looks so much like her mom. You make me want to visit India so very badly. It’s a good thing that when I finally do, I’ll know exactly what to do.
The series of pictures of Liz and you and Maddy in the same places is amazing. Truly touching. Maddy will cherish those pictures some day.
Remarkable post. So glad you both have such great experiences. LOVE Maddys dance moves. Cracks me up. Be well!
I love the pictures. I am always anxious to check my twitter for updates from you or Rachel. I am glad that the writing is coming easy. I am excited for the book. Maddy looks like she is having a GOOD TIME!
Enjoy these times. And happy belated birthday!
I’m very glad the writing is going well.
Happy birthday a few days late!
You aren’t missing much with the World Series, at least not yet.
Peter is still lonely for lunch friends.
I loved all these pictures. Beautiful.
Of course, tears were streaming down my face as I saw the photos of Maddy & her mommy in the same place.
So glad this trip is theraputic for you.
first of all, maddy is gorgeous. when you put their pictures next to each other its so clear how much she looks like liz. second – its amazing that you’re doing this with her. these experiences are going to be so important to her as she gets older. keep it up!!
it’s not too surprising that the emotion and words are each flowing. no doubt you are inspired.
what an incredible journey you are on. literally and figuratively.
blessings to you, maddy and rachel.
You have one of the most gorgeous, engaging children I have ever seen. You are doing a great job with her.
Those photos are powerful of Liz at the same sites you are visiting with Madeline. What a treasure you are giving her. it most certainly is a Taj Mahal for both Liz and Maddie. i am so happy that you are able to release all that you have been holding onto for the past 19 months. You can see it without a doubt, on your face. Keep doing what you are doing!! You are still in my prayers!
F’ing beautiful on so many levels!!! Glad to see that smile coming back, I can’t think of anyone that deserves happiness more!!
All of picture’s that you and Rachel are taking are just amazing!!!
What a wonderful post!
The auto rickshaw video had me scared to death! How fast is that thing going anyway? I saw you reach your hand out and touch that other vehicle. Holy crap!
I love the picture of her drinking out of the straw! She is growing so fast – I’m glad you are getting to witness nearly every second of it. So precious!
Congrats on flowing words, getting them unleashed after 19 months. Must feel a bit relieving. Can’t wait to see more smiles and read the book!
Love the pictures of Maddy standing in the same places her mom stood. It’s a pilgrimage of sorts, and I love that you have taken her along with you. I think she’ll treasure these photos, your words, and your book someday. I can’t wait to read it.
So awesome Matt! And yes…there are a lot of smiles in these pictures.
Looks like India is just where you needed to be.
I absolutely love the pictures. I am a little jealous of the 19 month old that has been on more plane rides and has seen more of the world than I have. Oh well, she has an awesome daddy to thank for that.
Matt, you and Maddie’s bond shows through your pictures. I love looking at them and I know where you are brings painful memories of Liz but Maddie and you are making beautiful memories together.
Keep writing because I am already for your book? Will you sign it for me?
I am amazed at all you do with that little girl! She is going to be such a well-rounded and interesting person because of all she has done with her daddy. To be able to see and touch and experience is the best thing you can do for your children. So excited about the book. I can’t wait!
Oh and Happy birthday. Your cake was awesome!
It’s amazing to me how much personality Maddy already has, as well as how much like Liz I think she probably is (having not known Liz.) She’s just gorgeous!
I’m glad your stay in India is helping you write like you need to. I pray it’s bringing healing to you.
*Hugs*
Matt you made a great decision going to India. You three look incredibly happy. Madeleine is getting so, so, so much out of this trip.
I love the photos and the photo comparisons. Madeleine will have such a ball looking at these photos when she’s older.
Keep up the great work. The world needs more parents like you.
Love the blog! I love seeing this side of India thru your eyes. It’s just amazing.
Are you eating in India?!?! You look SO skinny!!
This trip is going to be so special for her as she gets older. Especially all of the photos that retrace Liz’s footsteps in India. You are a rad Dad for doing it!
Natalie
Scripps Class of 2002
The pics are amazing and I love how you are taking pics of Maddy in the same places her mom’s photos were taken. I am glad to see a smile more redily on your face and this may just be the therapy you needed.
Can’t wait to see it in print. Blessings to you and Maddy and Rachel (i think that’s her name)
It’s amazing how much Maddy looks like her mom. Those comparison photos are really something else. Very happy to hear that you are accomplishing just what you set out to do – and that you are smiling more. Love the updates!
Amazing! Maddy is one blessed little girl to have a daddy like you, and a beautiful mom like Liz, whom she looks JUST like:)
I am grateful for this experience for you both and soo look forward to your book.
I have a little one just about 5 weeks older than Maddy. She too has blonde hair blue eyes and those little heart shoes:) And she too prefers men over women.
Great entry, Matt. The pictures are amazing. It is so special that once Liz walked the same steps that Maddie is taking now.
When I see such long blog entries on other blogs, I usually skim a little and then close them out. With yours, I read every word. I am sure your book will be more of the same.
Looking forward to seeing more smiles on your face!
What a fantasticly written post with all the beautiful photos. It is amazing how much your little one looks like her Mommy. How many 19 months old little ones can say they have bathed with elephants. What a joy. Can’t wait for your next installment.
Thanks for sharing your amazing experiences! Loving every minute of my vicarious trip to India!
“but most of the
time she just walks
around and makes
new friends.”…Just like her dad!
What a wonderful quality to share with her!
Sounds like this trip is healing for you…so glad.
Peace.
Good job Matt.
Sounds like such a great adventure that the 3 of you are having, I know it would be complete if the 3rd one was someone other than the nanny…(no offense Racheal). I am very glad to see all the smiles of both you in the beautiful pic’s. I am sure that your editor will love your writing & I can’t wait for the book to be complete & hot of the press. Continue with your wonderfull journey whereever tomorrow takes you. From your stranger, friend & follower…. Stephanie
AMAZING! That is all I have to say.
Great post! You can see Maddy changing and growing in the photos. She is the spitting image of her mother and is beautiful. And you all three look like you are having a good time. I noticed more smiles in your photos. Glad this trip is bringing you what you needed.
Thanks for taking me to India…your photos and videos made it feel as if I were really there. Hard to explain, but the sites and sounds were almost tangible.
So glad to see you all having a good time. Best of luck in your writing.
I was hoping you were gonna do that with the pictures (post photos of Liz next to the ones from this trip w/Maddy). So glad you’re smiling more, too! =)
Simply Precious. I hope that once the book you are writing is finished, you will think of doing one of your photographs that are Stunning!!
Beautiful post, beautiful pictures! This post alone could inspire anyone to see India.
Good luck with the rest of your writing, I’m sure it will be phenomenal!
Great to see you smiling as well
Anothet great, sweet post. I really enjoyed looking at the pictures of the beautiful Liz and then of you and Madeline in the same places. The two of each of them running over the hot sidewalk are my favorite. And I really loved the picture of Madeline in her swimsuit-that face she is making made me laugh so hard; and the one picture of Madeline sitting on the ground and the elephant peeking over the wall is so awesome! Hope you had a great birthday and you can totally tell that the words spilling out of you are making a BIG difference
Just incredible!!! I am sure Liz is with you and Mady in every step of your adventure. Love the posts and the pictures!!
Love the update! It is amazing how much she looks like her mama. I am glad that the writing is going well.
So amazing in every way possible.
i was starting to get upset by the lack of posts but can’t bring myself to yell at you after that. how could i? you’re being happy, you’re living your life, you’re giving your daughter an awesome start on hers.
i couldn’t ask for anything more than that from you.
enjoy the journey, matt. and not just that india one.
I can hardly wait for the book!
I love the photos and videos!! I had no idea that India was that beautiful. Maddy is looking more and more like her beautiful Mommy in every picture!! Its so nice that you are able to bring her to the same places as you and Liz once visited together! One day when she is older and can see this, she will feel very close to her!
I will say that you do seem so much happier! Not that I know you personally, but I definitely see more happiness in you!! Its nice
Its so Awesome that the words are flowing! I cant wait to read your book, I am sure it will be breathtaking!!
All of this is so awesom. I love reading your updates and I can’t wait to read your book.
Peace and Blessings to you guys.
Jodi
awesome. awesome. awesome. what a fantastic journey you are on…thanks for sharing.
I love this post for many reasons!!! Beautiful!
Thanks for the fix! Nice to see you all are doing well. Happy Birthday! I have a few questions… are there a lot of citizens there that speak English? Do they have american food anywhere? Those auto rickshaws (driving in general) are crazy! Do they have many accidents? You said you had to get shots to go over there. Is it a clean place?
Awesome. I love the side by side pictures of Liz and Maddy. She is so beautiful, just like her Mommy.
What a special time to revisit all these places with Maddy at your side. Oh, how I wish Liz was with you. My heart aches for you, tears come easily because I can feel the emotion behind your words and in the pictures. You are so strong. So brave.
I’m so glad to hear the words are coming easily to you. I’m sure it feels like such a huge relief to get it all out. I know your editor will be very pleased. I’m looking forward to your book so much and will be in line for my copy to be signed!
Thanks for the updates! For bringing us all along on this journey.
The pictures you took of Madeline and her mother LIz in the same places brought a tear to my eyes.
When she’s older these photos will help give her a connection to her beautiful mother.
Very sweet and excellent post.
Hauoli La Hanau (Hawaiian for Happy Birthday)!
Amazing! I LOVE the pics!! I am so glad things are going to good for you guys. You look really happy. I can’t wait for the next update!
Have a great rest of the week!
Andrea
Just wanted to let you know as a mother, that Liz would be soo incredibly proud after reading this post. You are exposing maddie to all the things that you and Liz loved so much and it’s just great to see Maddie in the same places as her mom once was and enjoyed. You have gone above and beyond good parenting and are now at the extraordinary parenting level.
Keep it up!
I’ve been following your blog for months now and all I can say is, well done! You are giving beautiful Maddy an extraordinary experience that she’ll be able to look back on for the rest of her life. You are an amazing man and father, bless you and your family!
What an adventure maddy has been on. Glad the words are flowing and can’t wait to read your book. Enjoy the remainder of your trip continue to send us great photo’s and awesome updates.
Rosann
Oh Yea HAPPY BIRTHDAY TOOOO!!!!!
Wow. Looks like good times. She is sassy! Just like her momma i bet!
this post leaves me speechless.
matt, you fucking rock.
its wonderful that you are able to take maddy to all the places you have been with her mom. i’ve noticed how happy you look in your pictures recently, i’m glad that writing & india has done that. have more amazing adventures!
I love that you are enjoying your time with Maddy in India. It has got to be tough, but enduring the pain only makes you stronger. Not to mention how much it will mean to Maddy when she can look back at the photos of her mom in the same places she has been.
What a fabulous idea.
I am also glad to hear that the writing is going so well!
Good luck with the remainder of your novel.
wow it’s almost like being there. Great stuff and Happy birthday.
you are giving your daughter so many wonderful memories (of your travels and of her mommy) to treasure. What a great job you are doing Matt…you should be so very proud
One of the first things that I noticed was the ease of your smile in these pictures. Best wishes to you, Rachel & Maddy from Minnesota!
The more I read, the more I look forward to your book. It really sounds like the writing is cathartic and as the words come out your smile is returning. Your eyes are finally starting to smile.
I just thank you for sharing this journey with us. That doesn’t seem like enough of a word to convey the gratitude for letting us peek in on your life with Maddy, but it’s all I have, so thank you.
i love the picture of you holding maddy pointing up at something…my sister told me about your blog 2weeks ago, i have gone back and read everything..YOU are amazing! I am so sorry for your loss, but you are doing a great job! Maddy is precious, she is very lucky to have a father like you. Take care.
What an amazing entry. You are working through things at your own pace…it’s your and Maddie’s destiny. So inspiring. I know a little about the journey aswell and wish you peace. Enjoy your time with your daughter and Rachel, how precious a time this is.
More smiles? I am thrilled that the world is looking a little brighter for you. Amazing post.
I’m speechless. What a incredible journey you are taking your precious daughter on.
You are all in my prayers to keep you safe and to write the story of your life.
God Bless
Matt, you’re doing an amazing job with Maddie and giving her so many experiences. I have tears in my eyes after this post…seeing all the photos of you guys in the same places as Liz. I look forward to reading your book…
Much Love and Safety…
Best post ever.
The pics of you and Maddy / Liz look like they were taken during the same trip. If somebody didn’t already know, well, then I guess they’d never know.
She was there with you in the pictures.
And she was there with you.
Asalamu Alaykom,
OK, I choked up looking at the mini-me pics. Still no tears. It’s not mandatory that I cry while reading you and perhaps now it’s impossible. I can’t cry when someone is happy. Mashahallah, it’s good to hear you happy.
I did have a BIG THOUGHT about your turban attire at the restaurant: woulda looked good with your Snuggie.
Enjoy!
Great post. You are an awesome father! Lucky little Maddie. She looks like Liz. Glad to hear that your words are flowing. You should somehow ask your blog readers to pre-order your book. That would get your editors attention.
WOW! Your pictures are stunning! India looks amazing! I’m so glad everything is going well for all of you. This is going to be the best gift ever for Maddy!
By the way…love the Nye’s shirt! I was there that night…they truly were a badass polka band
Incredible pictures- love the ones of you and Maddie standing in the same places as Liz. What a blessing she is. Thanks for sharing- thinking of all of you on this amazing journey.
FABULOUS POST !!! Love all of the pictures. So glad that you are having such a great time !!
Love the pics of Liz mixed with the ones of Maddy !!!
After the first few pictures, I thought, “It would be so cool if he took pics of Maddy in some of the same places that he took pics of Liz.” And voila. You are a truly gifted storyteller, even though this is no story. Thanks for sharing the special moments of your life.
How amazing of a parent you are…just amazing.
You have always known the value of place. In these places Matt, Liz lives on. On in your heart, your memory and now through Madeline in the exact places. She will learn, just how you have learned, just exactly how to find peace in her heart and soul. May your days continue to trigger the warmth of a memory and the joy of what once was in India.
I for one can hardly wait for your report from Cat-man-doooo!!
Carry on my friend, carry on
Maddy is looking so much like her mama. Looks like a wonderful time is being had while you also work.
Amazing stuff. Thanks so much for sharing…gosh I almost feel like I was there with y’all. Can’t wait to read/see more.
What wonderful photos and videos. You all look so happy very nice to see
Keep on writing your book I cannot wait to read it! Take care.
What an amazing adventure for you all. You seem somehow more at ease Matt, there is a sense of peace surrounding you. I’m happy for you that the words are coming.
The Maddy/Liz photos are so precious, seeing Maddy in the same places as her Mama must make your heart stop.
She’s one very special little girl indeed.
Maddy is the most styilsh dresser I know! Looks like you guys are having fun. So nice for her to have these photos in the same spot as her mom.
I think my favorite is the picture where Maddy is hiding behind the curtain with beads…how precious. Just looking at these photos brings tears to my eyes – tears of happiness that Maddy gets to experience all that you are offering her – tears of sadness that this time with her couldn’t be spent how you’d envisioned it to be. Thank you for sharing.
The connection you are creating for Maddy with her mom is pretty remarkable. When she is older, understands a little more about what has happened and can look back and see that she walked in the same footsteps as her mother, she will be forever grateful that you took the time to do all of this for her. You’re a pretty amazing dad!
Oh, and I think all of your readers are enjoying seeing you smile a lot more. I am in awe that you can be in all of the same places you shared with Liz and revel in the memories instead of letting them make you sad. I am sure Maddy sees it too. I’d tell you to enjoy the rest of your time there, but I think you’re already doing a pretty good job of that.
Happy belated birthday to the both of you.
just loving the sights and sounds… i especially love the dancing. i love to hear the laughing and see the smiles upon your faces. thank you for bringing us all along on your journey. you are telling a beautiful story.
thank you so much for sharing this time with us. these pictures are amazing!! maddy is looking more and more like her mama every day…what a treat for you!!!
Hi Matt and Maddie! Well, I actually thought to myself, when you and Maddie were being accosted my the elephant, that I saw some joy….and whatever it’s taken to get to the joy..even for a moment…must feel a bit freeing or lovely…and also I’m hoping the elephant bathing experience has taught you, and I almost universally against this apparral item as well, maybe a bathing suit or shorts, wet jeans, hot weather not a good combo.
All the best…
It is so wonderful to see that smile Matt! Very touching post. The pictures you took of you and Maddy in sync to the ones of Liz are amazing {brought tears to my eyes}. I am so thrilled for you that everything is flowing beautifully like you had hoped for. So glad to hear you are having the time of your life
wow the photos are fantastic. Maddy is really getting to connect to Liz in a really special way. Happy belated Birthday! Keep on writing. I can’t wait to order your book. Oh, and that photo of Maddy in her bathing suit posing for the camera, so so so cute!
Hugs from NJ,
Erica, Landon and Owen (born 10/23)
What a great post. I love seeing the photos of Liz and then you guys there, in the same places. Those are amazing, and Maddy will be so happy she has those photos. I’m sure she’ll even return on her own one day, knowing how special those places were to you and her mom. Maddy sure looks like Liz, her expressions, and she looks so wise in some of those pictures!! Glad the writing is going well, and that it is cathartic for you. Looks like the whole family will benefit, and Maddy is doing so well! Love her dancing videos, too cute.
Good Work! i noticed the change … a little … something different in the pictures in the last post… I’m glad you notice it too. That’s the important part right! Good luck. Stay safe and Have fun!
I’m glad to see and hear that you are all having a great time! Maddy seems to have grown some too since your last post!! I was also glad to see you smile more in some of the photos!! I think my favorite is of you and Maddy on the boat on the way back from elephant bathing. Frame that one!!!
Thank you for sharing your story with us. Watching Maddy grow has been amazing. It is unbelievable how much she looks like Liz. Happy Birthday – so glad to hear it was a good one.
Beautiful, every word, every photo, just everything!
I feel so special to be on this journey…
Seeing her in places that her mother has been previously totally choked me up.
What a sweet gift you are giving to her.
I know that devestation has struck your life and Madeline’s (in ways she may never realize), but your determination to give her the most amazing life she could ever have is so incredibly inspiring. You have lost so much but have found a way to take that loss and turn it into something extraordinary.
I commend you. And so will she when she grows up and realizes what you have done for her. Even with the loss of her mother, she is cleary a very lucky girl.
You exude hope.
Absolutely beautiful Matt. I am loving following your travels (both literally and figuratively), and can’t wait to hear more.
So great to see the photos and hear about your trip so far. I can’t get over how much Maddie looks like her mom, beautiful.
Glad to hear the writing is coming along well. Can’t wait to read the finished product.
I don’t think I have ever done any of the things Maddy has done in the last week…AWESOME! I can’t wait to go to India, it looks amazing!
fucking amazing Matt
I so look forward to reading about your new adventures. India seems like such an amazing place. Can I say that you look really happy there with your best girl. By the way, can’t wait to read your book when it comes out!
Love love LOVE the photos of Liz. So glad you mixed them in, that was perfect. Happy belated Birthday
You are an amazing man and father
But mostly you are an amazing human being
Thank you for sharing
I just can not get enough
Liz would be proud
Yes, I did notice the smiles. And they are wonderful.
Wow! So good to see you smiling in these photos. I never really was interested in visiting India, until I saw all there was to see and experience in your photos, Matt. I can’t wait to show my girls these photos tomorrow. They are loving learning about your family and your travels to India. My kids (7, 7, and 3) will find me checking your blog and say, “Oh, look! There’s Madeline!” Keep writing, loving your new experiences with Madeline!
wow. the pictures of liz mixed in with the recent pictures make it seem like she’s there on the trip with you now.
also, you’re such a cool dad. when i worked at a zoo in college, my mom freaked out about me getting tested for TB because of the elephants. yea…i worked in ticketing.
WOW, awesome post. Happy BIrthday, Matt. So glad to hear the writing is going well. Can’t wait till your next post. The series of pics of Maddie standing where Liz stood just took my breath away….The last pic was my fave. I have really enjoyed witnessing your journey so far….(((HUGS)))
I’m loving your pictures! Maddy looks so at home there, and so do you. I’m so glad this is a defining time for you.
Every time I visit your wonderful blog, you crack my heart wide open. Blessings to you and yours.
Fantastic photos! It looks like y’all are having an amazing experience.
The pictures are wonderful. I love how you took pics of Maddy in the same spots as you took pics of Liz. That is so wonderful and meaningful for both of you. Glad you had a nice Birthday.
Thank you for sharing your adventures with us. What an amazing thing to be sharing the same places with Maddy. and I’m so glad you take so many pictures then..and now.
Is it just me or does the “evil” little girl remind anyone of Wednesday Addams??
Oh Matt!
Love reading about your travels with your gal. You are so brave!
How is your book coming along?
Best wishes
Matt,
So incredibly happy for you!
It is so amazing to hear that the writing and the trip are going so well. I hope your time in India is better than you ever could have dreamed.
Lots of love to you, Maddy and Rachel!
Thinking about you all all the time over here in the U.S.
Much love,
Sarah S
Well, I can officially say that I want to go to India now, everyone seems so incredibly nice, not to mention all the beautiful places. Love the dance party atmosphere of the auto-rickshaws, how fun!
Mostly, it is awesome to hear how well you are doing. It sounds like everything is going even better than expected. Keep up the good work!!
Happy Birthday, belated.
I know how different three years can be. Three years ago I was about to be engaged. Now look at my life…
Wow Matt…the side-by-side pictures of you and Maddy next to the pictures of Liz are breathtaking. Especially the close-up of Maddy next to the close-up of Liz, just stunning. It has been such a pleasure to be able to share in your adventures, and to notice the additional smiles in your pictures. Take care!
What great pictures. I love all the different people and all the different colors. That looks like a wonderful place to visit. My favorite pics are of Liz, and the you and Maddy do the same picture. That’s frickin’ awesome! Find lots of frames to display these side-by-side. Keep up the good work Matt. Can’t wait to read the book.
I love seeing India through your camera lens. My son is asking all the time if we can check if there are any new pictures of Maddy, he adores looking at her pictures and we must have watched the dancing videos twenty times, it just cracks him up! So glad to see you enjoying your time with Maddy..and how great is that Rachael?!?!?!!!
What an amazing trip and what a little beauty you have in Maddy. I am so glad this trip is proving to be everything you hoped for and more.
absolutely breathtaking to see the pictures of liz and then maddy in the same places. what an opportunity you have made for yourself as well as your daughter.
I loved the update, so glad that those words are coming so easily for you, and that you are feeling better by doing it.
I was floored to read about the girl squashing the caterpillar, who does that???? Other people’s children I guess, not mine that’s for sure.
Keep em coming, I love reading the updates, and living vicariously through you all.
Enjoy!
You amaze me every day. What an awesome gift to give to Maddy – love this post with all the pics of Liz and then Maddy
Happy belated birthday. Those are great pictures and it all looks fantastic! It sounds like you’ve found a wonderful healing place for you and your soul. Maddy is beautiful and you do look less sad. Enjoy the rest of your time in India. Hope all of your travels are safe.
What an amazing experience for Maddy. Even if she only remembers bits and pieces of this trip (first of many, I’m sure), the proof through your photos and video will mean so much to her. I’m so glad to hear the words are flowing – you two deserve nothing but the best after everything that’s happened.
Awesome.
I hung on very word and every picture….the ones that touched me were the ones of Liz and then seeing Maddie in the same spot. She looks so much like her mom. I wish for you to continue on your journey of showing Maddie her mom. She is learning so much for such a young little girl…you are a wonderful dad…
You look great-but maybe a little tired? Maddy looks wonderful and even more like her mom. What a wonderful experience for both of you and something Maddy will treasure when she is older.
curious, what do your tattoos say?
Maddy looks just like Liz. It’s great to have pictures of Maddy in the same places Liz visited. Thanks for sharing!
So beautiful to have “matching” photos of Maddie and Liz. What an amazing gift you are giving to your little girl. Wishing you, Maddie, and Rachel much happiness and safe travels on the rest of your trip.
Amazing…thank you so much for sharing your lives with us. What an incredible journey you are on. I’m truly speechless…
This post was incredible. I thought I understood before why you wanted to go to India, but NOW I understand. You are giving your child such an amazing experience, and she is going to be all the better of a person for it. You are doing EVERYTHING right when it comes to raising Maddie in a way that would make Liz SO incredibly proud. Yowza. I am just in awe of you!
I am so enjoying the pictures and blog of India. I don’t think I had any idea what India was really like and I’m getting more of an idea following your stories. Maddy is as cute as ever.
The pictures of you and your Maddy, that are the same as your dear wife….wow. Beautiful, amazing. I promise you, your daughter is going to be in awe of these someday. And, I have a feeling these won’t be the last photos of her that we’ll be seeing in these places. You are doing a wonderful thing.
I knew I saw something different on your face….so so happy for you.
Love how you are sharing the same moments you shared with Liz with Maddy. Hope Rachel is getting use to pictures, they are turning out great as always. Love the one with Maddy just got in her swimsuit, so cute. Like seeing the smiles from everyone
Glad to hear things are going well. Good luck with the continuing of you writing.
Awesome!
I am so proud of you!!!! You have (well someone has) been buying Maddy a bunch of new SHOES. LOL I remember when she was just a little younger and she never had on shoes. She is growning into a lillte lady. I also noticed she is looking a little more like you!!! Keep up the good work, your doing a better job than MOST mothers out there.
SUCH a great post, thank you. Madeline looks so much like her mom these days it is incredible.
Love the shots of Madeline contrasted with the ones of her mom. Gorgeous.
Thanks for taking us all to India!
these experiences that you are giving your daughter are simply amazing. I think it took a lot of courage on your part to decide to make this trip, and I so aplaud you for it! clearly this was the right thing to do for you and for Maddy, and I’m so grateful that you are sharing it with us, I almost feel like I’m there when I read your words and look at your photos, which have been totally rad, btw! I lovelove that one of Maddy with the huge chess set, the one where you can see her face, it’s really got a surreal quality to it, just awesome!
I can’t wait to read your book! Looking forward to your next update.
I am so in awe of the photos.. its just breath taking. Im glad you are getting some of the words out, thats always great.
also, I looove maddy’s pink flowery shirt! I want one!
I can’t believe you mentioned your smile, it is so different than the old smile. I thought it was just me noticing it-guess not!
Party on!
Matt,
I have been keeping up with your blog for quite a while, but this is the first comment I’ve made. After reading this post, I just wanted to tell you what an amazing father you are, and what a beautiful daughter you have. I love that you aren’t afraid to let Maddy try different things, and are exposing her to so much culture. I know your wife must be so proud of you.
There’s one photo in this post where you actually look purely *happy*. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a photo of you looking truly happy. It’s really nice to see. You are so lucky to have Maddy, and Maddy is so lucky to have you.
Glad the writing is going well.
Beautiful!!! The pics and your writing, everything is just awesome.
Those photos of Liz and Maddie in the exact same places brought chills to me!! How beautiful…she is definitely like her mama
What an amazing journey you guys are on and what beautiful memories you are making for that sweet girl!! 
I have no doubt that Liz is following you guys on your journey and is truly smiling down on you both!! I can’t wait to read your book and am so happy that you are finding peace on this adventure. Can’t wait to see more pictures and hear about all your adventures!!
Lovin the smile! I has been noticed…and it is so wonderful!
Maddie’s hair is gettign so long!
What a journey…sounds like it is so worth it!
Epic.
Love the photos of Liz and Maddy in the same places. Maddy looks so much like her Momma.
I can’t wait to read the book. You better come to Denver on your book tour!
amazing entry Matt. Amazing pictures. Amazing kid you’ve got there. Amazing journey. Just awesome! (and it’s great to see you smiling)
your words and pictures are so beautiful. in some of your pictures in your eyes i can see your sadness and it breaks my heart.and it’s great to see you smile too:O)
to see the pictures of liz than maddy is WOW!! maddy is growing up so quickly and looks so much like liz.she’s so precious and the love you have for that little girl is so evident in all your pictures of her. wishing you a belated birthday!!
So great to see so many pictures of Liz. Maddy looks exactly like her. What a fantastic adventure for all of you and I for one cannot wait to read your book!!!
Awesome!
Loved the Miss Sassy Pants pose in her swimsuit
Happiest of Birthdays, Matt. Thanks for taking time out of your writing to share the blog posts with us.
Been following the Flickr images/notes and did notice more smiles – glad the experiment…and experience…is doing what you hoped it would.
What an amazing experience you are giving her. She looks so much like Liz.
Gorgeous photos as usual. The sets of Liz then Maddy in the same places made me cry. Especially the close up (god you had a beautiful wife). It’s great that you’ve always documented your life in photos. You have made some wonderful memories for Maddy to grow up with, and I know she will thank you for it someday.
Is amazing to see what a little lady Madeline is becoming and she looks just like her Mommy. She will be very grateful for everything you do for her.
Okay, that picture of her in the big shoes and in her bathing suit…how freaking cute is that?!?! Wonderful writing, you and your joyful little kidlet bring so much light to this crazy world!! Love to you…
Wonderful photos, as usual. Bathing the elephants looks like it was a blast! Maddy looks like she is having fun at every turn, and glad to see writing is going well.
I was hoping for an update…:)
You didn’t disappoint. TY TY TY for sharing everything and the photos are made of awesome. (I love how the folks crowd around Maddy with such wonder…)
Happy Birthday Matt!
I love the picture of Maddy in her swimsuit. The look on her face and the pose she gives is priceless.
Love it all! So happy to hear that you’re writing well, doing well and enjoying India.
Maddy is the spitting image of Liz – both are just beautiful. Maddy is really going to appreciate the pictures you took of the two of you in places that you had photographed Liz. Love hearing the updates – best wishes on finishing up the book! Can’t wait to read it!
What an amazing life you are giving your daughter.
Beautiful post. I’ve been reading your blog since the beginning, and the journey has been remarkable. Maddy will treasure these memories. Keep it up, Daddy-O! You’re doing an awesome job.
I’m sure people say this all the time but “wow”, she is a spitten image of Liz. Some of the pictures are just remarkable. Those 2 pictures at the end where she is holding the paper are just precious! Looks like you are having a wonderful time and what a great tribute to your wife! Be safe and good luck as you continue to write.
What an amazing
journey.
I am
in awe.
Happy Birthday Matt!!
I love all the pics ~ especially the one of Maddy climbing on the fence ~ looking at all the women. Too cute.
I LOVE seeing pictures of Liz.
Hugs to you <3
Love, love, love. That’s what I feel when reading your blog. I’m so looking foward to this book. I think it’s going to be just as great.
When looking at all your pictures I like to believe she is right there with you guys. I can’t imagine anywhere else she would rather be.
Thanks for sharing Matt. Let’s keep those words a flowin’
What an amazing trip! It is remarkable how much Maddy looks like Liz. Beautiful, absolutely beautiful. Thanks for sharing all of the wonderful pictures.
It looks like y’all (yes, I just typed y’all; I’m from the south) are having a blast in India! Happy Belated Birthday!!
Hi Matt:
This post was one of the most moving yet, and there have been many. I don’t know you but I am so proud of you.
Seeing Liz in those photos and then you and Maddy in the next, in the same place, it guts me. I am so sorry for your loss. I wish you all the best in your travels.
AND I am so excited to hear the writing is going well! I can’t wait for your book!
Sincerely,
Tina
that’s pretty neat, but did you notice that in the one picture of you and maddy, the clouds spell “US”….. neato
Oh, man. I didn’t get it, but now I do. I understood that you might have the impulse to take Maddy to the places where Liz went, but I kept thinking, “She’s so little. She won’t remember. Why not wait until she’s older?” But I saw those picture of Liz, and then Maddy in the same place, and I got it.
Not that it matters one bit whether of not I get it. But I feel like I’ve made some sort of empathy break through or something.
Happy travels, and good writing.
what an amazing experience on so many levels! so happy for you guys! I am glad you had such a nice birthday
Couple things:
-Your bday cake is awesome!! (happy late bday by the way)
-Love that you have pics of Liz in the same exact spots you are today with Maddy. Maddy will be so appreciative!
-Maddy looks just like her mama!
Stay safe over there!
Love all the pics (so fun and so pretty!) but what I love most of all are those smiles on your face and all the fun you guys are having. India is doing you a world of good and that is so.fucking.awesome.
We miss you guys for sure but it’s so fun seeing your adventures. Just like your adventures with Liz. I’m glad that your book is coming along, that the words that needed to get out are and that this trip has been so great. Take care!
xoxoxoxoxo,
Tricia and Bella
ps. I wanna bathe an elephant! ::jealous:: hehehe
Just awesome!! She is soooo precious!
Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaand I’m bawling.
So beautiful.
She’s such a sassy young lady! And I love that you can tell she’s actually taking in all of these amazing sights- most toddlers would just wander on past.
and you know you’re going to have to redo this trip with her again when she’s like 19, right?
Keep taking such GORGEOUS photos (you have quite an eye,) keep on truckin’ with the writing, and keep on smiling.
The elephant bathing… amazing. They have always been my favorite animal. What a great experience you guys are having!
Matt,
The life you’re giving Maddy brings tears to my eyes. You have to be the world’s best father. I mean that. That’s all that I can bring myself to say…
Simply fabulous to see/read about my city in your description and awesome photos too ..ahh i miss the rickshaaw ride after seeing the videos
maddy will have great memories and connection to pics and places
you are a great dad
have fun next week when you travel north ..cant wait for jaipur/agra pics
Beautiful once again. I LOVE the close up picture of Liz. What a gorgeous woman.
Love hearing the experiences and life changing moments you are having with Mady. I cracked up over the woman hitting incident….thank goodness she’s bonding with Rachel!!
Dang. Double dang.
Incredible shit.
What sweet love in every sense. I’m glad your writing is going well, too.
Best,
Elizabeth Durel
Seeing the comparison of pictures made me tear up. Maddy will truly cherish those pictures and what a wonderful gift you are giving her! I am so happy that you are able to get everything off your chest and enjoy your time in India! And I am sure your editor will like what you have written! You are a great writer and all of us will still buy multiple copies of your book! Keep enjoying yourselves and keep the pictures coming!
on the first rickshaw auto ride video, ya’ll were sitting traffic for at least a minute and a half. And when you are driving, you’re going something like 80mph. Crazy. Love the elephant bathing!
Amazing! Maddy is so luck to have you to document this time in her life like this. The pictures of her and Liz in the same places are so special.
Thank you so much for sharing your adventures. I cannot wait to read your book when you are finally done. It really sounds like you are getting what you need from there to be able to write. I love seeing all the pictures and now I am dying to go to India!! Anyway, I LOVE the first picture of Maddy in her bathing suit!! It is so cute and really shows both you and Liz. She is such an adorable little girl and is so lucky to have you. The pictures of Liz in the same places are really awesome and Maddy will cherish them when she is older. She already has another connection and doesn’t even know it yet! Glad to hear things are going so well for you. I hope they continue that way and you accomplish your goals. By the way, Happy Birthday!
You have a beautiful life…I’m so glad I stumbled upon your blog!
i LOVE all the photos of liz and then maddy in the same spots. they are so connected it’s amazing. and you are doing all you can to keep that connection alive.
I’m so happy that writting your book is turning into such a cathartic experience. Besides time…it would seem that there are so few actions one could take to ease the pain of such a great loss. As has been posted a million times here, the comparison pictures of Madeline and Liz are crazy!!! The fact that you made a point of photographing the people in your life, not just things, is certainly a blessing to look back on.
Beautiful post. Simply poignant, breath taking, and joyful writing.
I’m sure that this has already been written many times above me, but I am SO, SO moved by all the pictures of Maddy standing just where Liz has stood before her. It’s like they’re crossing paths, in the very best of ways.
And also, on a much lighter note, what a damn amazing trip you are having. As someone who loves traveling, I am green with envy reading your blog from my little cubicle at work!!!
As i write this to you,
i am 9 months pregnant TODAY
and everytime i come on here to check and see if you have wrote something new,
i have to grab me a box of kleenex because the words you write break my heart everytime.
Anyways, going on.
I love how you have photos of Liz and Maddy in the same places…only 3 years apart.
They will both appreciate it.
BUT DAMN YOU MATT!!! You make me cry everytime i read your blogs. = )
Does that mean i am going to stop reading? Hell no.
Just means that i’ll be crying a water fountain when your book comes out.
good luck!!!
Love from Lauren in Louisiana.
These cultural experiences for your young Maddy are amazing. If only we all grew up in an environment where we had such opportunities to love and respect our worldly differences. Her confidence to explore is a result of your love and guidance. What a great gift.
Outstanding post! You are doing such a great job!
effin awesome.
Wow!!!! I have to say that the auto rickshaws look terrifying!!! LOL Maddy is getting more beautiful everyday! The pictures and memories that you share are wonderful! It’s nice to see you smiling. Happy Birthday (belated)!!!
Thanks for the update!! Your pics are amazing!!
Maddy looks like she’s growing taller everytime you post a new picture. Her chubby leg rolls are almost all gone – she won’t look like a baby much longer! She’s beautiful! You’re doing such an amazing job with her, Matt. I hope you’re proud of yourself! The fact that you’re bringing Maddy to walk in the exact same spots as her mother is an amazing gift – and pics to prove it?! Unbelieveable!
)))
Continued luck to you re: your book! I can’t wait to read it!
Another great post! Thank you. I’m so happy to hear that the writing is pouring out of you and that it is having a healing effect on you. You do look lighter and happier. Another round of amazing photos too. Love so many of them, especially the one of you holding Maddy upside down and you only see your hands. Is that a new(er) tattoo on the inside of your bicep? Curious as to what it says . . . Horrible about the caterpiller! Happy Belated Bday!!
Liz would so love what you’ve done! Can you imagine her reaction to taking Maddy to India for a few months? First she’d be like WTF? But then she would love it. And she’s watching you now and she loves you for the way you’re caring for Maddy. You’re an amazing Dad. And such a great photographer!
Love love love this post Matt. Such a brave soul you are taking your daughter to the places you loved with her mother….you’re a good man…admirable how you make certain that lil girl will know how amazing her momma was and how much you both loved each other. Rock on pops~
I don’t comment often, but I’ve been reading since a friend passed the link in April of last year.
I think it’s amazing what you’re doing for Maddie and for yourself and for the world and for Liz. You are truly a remarkable person and I’ve really been touched by you, your story, and your spirit as conveyed through your words.
Happy belated birthday.
Madding is freaking beautiful.
I can’t wait to read the book.
Thanks so much for sharing with us. I love looking at all the pictures and so does my 2 yr old. He’s a big fan of Maddy’s so watch out lol. I’m glad you had a great birthday! BTW I love her little blue shoes.
Sorry… Maddie is my daughter’s babydoll (ha). Your MADDY is freaking beautiful.
So beautiful. The pictures of Maddy where Liz has been are just so sad and so happy at the same time and brought they tears to my eyes. Thank you so much for sharing.
Well the computer ate my post, but maybe it’s a sign that words hardly due justice to what an amazing journey you are on.
The smile is coming back to your eyes. You made the right decision in taking this trip–cathartic.
p.s. I just stumbled across some Ed Hardy sangria and just started laughing and thought of you and those t-shirts!
Your little doll looks so much like her momma! I love that you put pictures of Liz in with the pics of you in Maddy in the same places. I love to compare Maddy and Liz – and Maddy is going to be beautiful like her momma!
Happy Belated Birthday! Love the pictures, love your writing. Such adventures you are all having. Such a gift our memories.
Amazing photos of your daughter & you in India. Your blog touched my life today. May you Be Blessed. Isleen
Haven’t commented in a while, but I did just want to say that I’m SO glad you decided to do this. It sounds like this whole process is exactly what you need right now. I’m thrilled to hear that the thoughts are coming and the words are flowing.
I know your book is titled something like “…and the Community that Healed Us,” but it sounds like the real healing is just getting started. Cheers!
Also, we have those same jammies. : )
Gorgeous! Wonderful pictures and story. I love reading your adventure! I ADORE that photo of maddy with her swimsuit on, what face and pose. Too freakin cute for words.
I am glad you are finding peace in your trip and book. I could see it in your face, you look so much more relaxed. Hugs.
Wow. That’s all I can say. Wow. You are an awesome dad and Mady is beyond adorable.
What a wonderful then and now collection of photos. You look and sound so much more at peace in the last couple installments.
May your journey be complete.
These photos are simply stunning, Matt. Liz is lovely, and I’m beyond sorry that she is not here with you right now. Maddy is such a bright child, an adventurer, an explorer. What you are doing with her is magnificent, and I’m so glad you have this opportunity. I await your book eagerly.
–Kelley in Georgia
Your post gave me chills! Maddie is so lucky to have you and she will grow up knowing her mom and loving her as much as you do.
Wow. Wow. Wow. Those pictures are priceless. Your comparisons have me in tears. I only know your wife and daugther through your words and your pictures, and it is amazing how much alike they are. You are incredible.
Beautiful! All 3 of you look like you’re having a great time. I love how easily people are attracted to Madeline and her ease with strangers. She puts a smile on everyone’s face (well, except for the caterpillar killer).
Great job, Matt. Really excellent.
Wow. Loved this post Matt. As usual, I’m crying at the end. Such beautiful words, and such gorgeous pictures. She sure looks like her Mommy. I’m sure Liz is watching from above and is loving what you’re doing as a father. I know I would be. I’m happy to hear the writing is coming along and that you feel good about it. I can’t wait to read the book.
as always, your writing is beautiful…so is Maddy! also, Stellan is back in the hospital and not doing very well, please keep him in your thoughts
It is amazing to see how much Madeline looks like her mom. I have no doubt that she will begin to really take on more of her mannerisms. My mother died when I was extremely young and people will come up to me that I do not know and say that I remind them of someone, my mother.
You are doing such wonderful things for your daughter and for your wife. Because of your commitment, Madeline will never feel lost without her mother. She was truly given the right father to lead her through this life.
i’m so happy that you are feeling this way, matt. it does me good to know you guys are doing so well.
Good, I cry every time I come here. It’s mostly from being so happy that you guys are adjusting and seem to be doing well.
I should also say that I’ve traveled a lot of the world but never India, but now I hope it’s my next destination.
glad the trip is working out for you. Work+adventure sounds like a good combo. Liz and Maddy are so beautiful. Photos are awesome……
Matt, as usual the pictures were amazing…and ofcourse the writing takes one to another place..the cutest photo of Maddy is where she is kinda posing in her beach wear..so cute!
Hey, did you notice in one of the pictures, where Maddy is wearing big shoes, there is this guy standing behind her, with a big stomach in a yellow shirt. He looks so pregnant…Hyuk!..that was funny..!
Thanks for a great update – it’s always fun to hear what you guys have been up to. Maddy looks so big in some of those pics. She’s such a beautiful little girl, and these experiences you are giving her are incredible.
Happy belated birthday!
Just fantastic, fantastic, fantastic!!!
You are amazing and I say that everytime I write a comment. Maddy is so lucky and I can’t get over how much she looks like her mother. I can only read your posts at work otherwise I would cry through the whole thing. You are an awesome dad and Liz would be proud! Can’t wait to read your book! Have fun.
Amazing prose and photos! I have the feeling that your take on life (and death) and these amazing experiences are going to shape your little girl into a remarkable woman!
I love all the pix – especially the one of Maddy staring up at Burberry dude. Thanks for sharing all of this…really brings perspective to the crap I deal with each day. You are an amazing dad.
Took my breath away…
Hugs to all…
Matt, today I cried at my desk when I saw the pictures of Liz and the ones of Maddie and you in the same places. I know this trip is a beautiful thing for you, and I’m so glad that Maddie is going to have these connections to her Mom. You are doing an amazing job. Keep the smiles coming…
I hung on every word. What a great post, thank you for sharing it with us.
Hey Matt- What an incredible experience for all of you! Photos are great; videos are fun. Especially love the rickshaw ones, complete with soundtrack. Erie & so poignant the shots of Maddy where Liz once stood. You’re helping to build such memories for your beautiful girl!
Love & Peace, Cass & Tom Cheyney(neighbors)
It breaks my heart every time I see pics of Liz and then Madeline — and, as a mom, think about all Liz is missing. Life just isn’t fair.
i am very touched by your story. thank you for sharing. you have an amazing way to captivating my attention and wanting me to keep scrolling for more news and pictures. What a lucky woman Liz was to have found such a romantic,
maddy is a doll.
I would imagine lots of others have said the same thing, but as much trouble as you’re destine to have when the boys come knocking for Madeline; for now you should be nothing short of proud of yourself because you are so strong for her that she trusts in men. She is so lucky to have you.
I adore these pictures and this experience for both you and Maddy! Liz and Maddy look so much alike. It’s remarkable how God has given you such a wonderul reminder of your love for your wife!!! Cant wait to see and hear more of yout adventure.
This is an awesome entry, thanks for sharing all the experiences and photos!
I love the two photos – one close-up of Liz and the next one of Maddy. She looks so much like Liz, so beautiful.
It is a wonderful journey you are taking, for your heart, and for your memories with dear Liz, for you and Maddie’s future. Rachel is taking such perceptive photos; the story told in your words and both your pictures is riveting and delightful. Such adventures! Glad you are able to write.
It is SO good to see your deep, loving smile.
Happy belated birthday, gentle hug in rememberance of your anniversary – how bittersweet, and 19m old Maddie!
AMAZING post!!! She (and you all) look like you are having the time of your life, what experiences she will treasure forever!!!! LLOOOOOVE the Rickshaw dancing, tooo cute, they have some good beats over there!!!!
By the way, I know this is random- I came across this website, you have to look at their dresses, they are totally Maddy!!! http://WWW.SHABBYAPPLE.COM SOOO freaking cute!! Style maven as always!!
The picture sequence of Liz and then you and Maddie in the same place gave me goose bumps. They are very beautiful pictures that I’m sure Maddie will cherish as she gets older and begins to understand. Thank you for sharing them with us. I’m glad to hear your writing is going well and that it’s been cathartic for you. Can’t wait to read the finished product. Best wishes.
If I was granted three wishes for ANYTHING… I would save one for my family, one for our planet and the other for you. And I’m sure you can imagine what that wish would be. Evertime I come here, I just can’t stop thinking- “It’s just not fair…. it’s just so goddamn UNFAIR….”
But the life and the love you are giving your little girl is beyond words- and you both deserve every minute of happiness that finds you.
oh my friend… what an adventure you are on. my favorite picture is of you with maddy in your lap… she is looking one way and you are looking the oppposite way, BUT, her smile is slightly open-mouthed, like liz’s and your’s is not… yet you and maddy have the same content eyes.
continued fantastic memories and safe travels to you and your’s.
She speaks TAMIL?! YAY!!!!!
Maddy ennaku unna romba puddikum! umma!!
I’m speechless…..simply amazing.
Every time I see comparison pictures of Maddy and her mom at different landmarks I start crying. What a wonderful gift. Liz would be so proud of you. Can’t wait to get your book. My daughter Aayla, 24 months, reads with me and is always asking about Maddy. She says “hi baby!” <3
Hi Matt,
I wanted to say that reading your blog has made me believe in something. I know Liz is smiling and laughing right along with you and Maddy, and seeing what an amazing job your doing raising Maddy and honoring Liz and the love you shared. Seeing all of that, she must be in a really amazing place, to be able to watch it all, and be at peace because I know she is.
And, Maddy is amazingly lucky to be seeing all of this, and especially with you.
Thanks so much for sharing all of this with us! And, please come to Colorado on your book tour
.
Shelly
It’s so great to see what a gift this trip has been for you. I’ve been reading your blog for a long time, and there are definitely differences in not only your pictures (the smiles), but the way you write as well. It’s wonderful to see and I’m grateful that you’re giving the world a chance to experience this journey with you.
Safe travels and smiles.
Glad that you are getting a routine down, it looks as if everyday is an adventure.
Matt –
Good evening. This post was great, thank you so much for sharing this journey with us.
Yolanda
Can i just say how awesome it is that you took her to bathe elephants!! I never would have thought that was an activity that apparently lots of people go to, I love it! After you’re done writing maybe you should think about making travel brochures to get people to visit places because I sure want to go to India after reading your blog. By the way, what are the tattoos on the inside of your upper arms?
Wow, Matt. These pictures are extraordinary…what you’re doing is so inspiring. Truly a reminder that life really is too short. I’m so happy this trip is bringing you some peace and that you and Maddy and Rachel are creating so many incredible memories together.
It’s going to be so amazing reading your book, knowing a little bit about what was going on around you while you wrote it. So. Awesome.
Happy Belated Birthday Matt!:) Hope you had a great day-Take Care
…The face was supposed to be happy:) Sorry.
Your life is beautiful! Maybe this could be closer with you and Liz. Maybe a new beginning for you and Rachel? You can see the love she has for Madeline. I wish you and your daughter the best!
You are an inspiration to us all and I feel priviledged to be able to go through your journeys with you and Maddy. You’re a great father and I cannot wait to read your book. Thanks Matt, and I hope you had a wonderful birthday!
I absolutely loved this post! It warms my heart to see you smiling more… I cannot thank you enough for sharing this experience with us! BIG hug to Miss Maddy and a big thank you to Rachel for taking care of the little princess.
What a wonderful post Matt – thank you for sharing it with us. Maddy will have some amazing memories when she gets older, your photos are just inspiring.
what an amazing journey. cannot wait to read your book, i am sure it will make me cry just like your blog. You are an awesome man and daddy.
The comparison shots are a really great tribute and will be really fun for Maddy later. Maddy didn’t seem too keen on that big black beast with the yellow streamers all over it.
What a rich dream life you are bestowing upon that girl.
I can’t wait to read you book – please promise you will do a signing in San Francisco!
Powerful photos of Liz in India, then you and Maddie in the same spots. I choked up.
I will write a better comment when I stop tearing….
one of my favorite posts yet.
the photographs and writing are both great.
glad you are having fun and doing what you set out to do.
beautiful. thank you for continuing to share your life with all of us.
What cool photo’s you have taken. Its sad to see the ones of Liz in the same places though although I can imagine this whole process is in some way theraputic.
You are also a great dad. Rachel is lucky to be able to tag alone on this adventure.
Really enjoyed reading this entry.
Regards from South Africa!
There are now words except thank you for sharing this post & pictures. Happy & sad tears to my eyes. Wonderful.
Have been following you for quite some time now and watched Maddie grow. She is an amazing little girl and will be an amazing woman someday just like her mother seems to have been. I have four children and youngest is just a bit younger than Maddie. You have inspired me to live a litte…lol. Just opened my own business online doing genealogy and census research. Have been doing this for about 15 years and as a business in the past, but just got new business and website up and running. Check it out if you get a chance hopefully someday I will be in a position to contribute a portion to the Liz Logelin Foundation…Just opened week and a half or so ago and numbers are already climbing fast…check it out…www.thecensusmom.com
It’s marvellous to see you having such fun on your travels — in this photo Maddie really does look just like Liz.
I’m so glad you’ve found the guts and spirit to go back to these places you loved so much on your visits with Liz. It’s not too much, I think, to reason that although it must be painful at times, by confronting this you really can do much to find her there.
It’s hard for me to express just how certain I am that Liz is enormously proud of you both, but regardless I’m going to say it clearly now all the same.
With all best wishes from London, and keep enjoying your travels. The world has so much to offer you both, if you can just keep going.
Maddy saying ‘please’ and ‘ready’ in the video…too cute for words!
Love all the pics. India is beautiful, and not at all what I imagined.
Happy Belated Birthday Matt!
Holy smokes, that girl’s got the moves! So funny to see her dancing with someone (something) her own size!!
I must say.. the caterpiller part of the story cracked me up.
Guess that’s one way to go about it
Great as always Matt
-M
I’ve been reading since Summer 2008. Every time, it breaks my heart and warms my heart at the same time. Enjoy India with your girl!
Amazing pictures amazing writings…..Madeline looks just like Liz!!
Matt,
Thank you. This is my first time to comment, but I’ve been following your blog since January. You are an inspiration.
Oh, Happy belated Birthday. Mine is Oct. 24!
One word describes this all: Amazing! You are truly and amazing person and father. Maddy will look back and love what you have done for her.
I’m glad the book writing is going well. Looking forward to more posts….
What an amazing post! I love checking in on you and Madeline
Hi Matt
learned abt yr blog fr Rachel Ray’s show last wk. Maddy was only 10 mths old then (: (now i know this is how late we get to view the shows in Singapore). anyway jus wanted u to know that u are doing an awesome job raising maddy. can’t wait to catch up on reading the rest of yr blog… btw Maddy is simply adorable…
Happy birthday!
I’m so jealous of your travels.
I love how you are capturing Maddy in the same places as Liz was… so cute. Gosh Liz was just stunning, no matter what….