happiness has pervaded
my life,
before, during and after
my time with
liz.
and since she died,
it’s been my friends
and family and stranger friends
and music and books and
travel and writing and
memories and photography
and baseball and cheeseburgers
and beer and this blog
and countless other things
that have all been
huge sources
of happiness for me.
and then there’s madeline.
what can i say about
her now that
i don’t think every second,
that i don’t write down
whenever i can,
that i don’t capture
on virtual film
every day?
well, she’s been
my biggest source of
happiness since
liz
died, my reason for
getting out of bed
in the morning,
the reason
i can pull myself
together after
finding a long lost
photo of
liz
in a box in our garage,
the reason i haven’t
fled the country
with just my ipod and wallet.
madeline is my everything.
without her, i would be nowhere,
but with her
i am here.
and now.
there’s another source of
happiness in my life.
her name is brooke.
and we’re dating.
if you’ve looked
at my flickr photostream
lately, that
may be rather obvious.
it’s weird how
things like this
can sneak up
on you,
but i’m happy it did.
we met briefly
last september,
a five minute conversation
that found me
teasing her
(that should come as no surprise to anyone who knows me).
we hung
out a couple of
times at the end of november.
and in december,
when maddy and i
were in mn for
the holidays,
we spent even more time together.
and now,
she’s been out to
los angeles to visit
us twice since
we returned here at the
end of january.
she makes me smile,
and maddy
really loves her.
how do i know?
because madeline hates
most women, yet
she lets brooke do
her hair without
putting up a fight.
but this…
this relationship,
it’s something i’ve
been reluctant to talk about.
why?
because it’s hard
enough to discuss this
with my friends
and family, face-to-face,
let alone
with strangers
on my blog.
plus, i’m pretty
sure this is gonna
change the way
that some people view me.
there’s a line in
conveys my feelings
better than i could.
and widows and widowers,
the people that
i’ve committed to helping,
both through my words
and through the foundation
i started in
liz’s
name, may think
i no longer “get” them.
i assure you,
i do.
finding another source
of happiness does
not mean that i
have moved
past the pain,
’cause i still feel
that pain on a daily basis.
and this doesn’t mean
that i have replaced
liz.
the way i look at
things is that when
liz
died, i died.
but i was reincarnated
a moment later,
and i’m
lucky enough
to have the memories
of my previous
life still with me.
these memories,
both good
and bad,
come to play in my
everyday life,
and it’s these memories
that will keep
liz
alive for madeline.
she will know
her mother through
my memories of her,
through the photographs
i’ve taken,
through the family and
friends that i
hold dear,
and it’s these people who will
remain in her life,
and my life forever.
and i see this
whole thing
as an evolutionary process,
a process that has
me moving through,
not moving on,
because moving on
is impossible.
but happiness…
it’s been here the
whole time,
even in my darkest,
most fucked-up
moments, yes, there
has been happiness.
and with brooke
now in our lives,
there’s even more happiness.
and i don’t see
how that
could be anything
but positive.
(here are some photos of the last week).
1219 Comments
Congrats!
Happiness is always a wonderful thing, Matt, and I’m so happy you’ve got it back in you life.
That is awesome Matt. I am happy for you. I don’t think anyone would expect you to live in a cave and you have certainly done some serious grieving that may never stop. If it makes you and Maddy, then that is great.
PS-Brooke looks really cute and her style totally goes with who you are (at least from what I can tell from your blog)
Everyone looks brilliantly happy. And that’s all anyone should ever want for you and Maddie.
Good for you, don’t worry about what other people think. Liz would want you to find happiness again. Best wishes
Yay Matt! I’m so happy for you. I’ve been wondering when this would happen. I can’t wait to hear the rest of this story!
Sometimes being honest is one of the hardest things in the world, even if it’s the best thing you can do.
I wish you well as you continue on your journey.
we all deserve to be happy, matt.
happy. & loved.
be happy.
*
Congratulations, Matt. Really, truly, deeply…Congratulations. Now go buy a horse.
good for you! you deserve all the happiness!
If this makes you happy, Matt, then I am happy for you – and Madeline!
(((hugs)))
Matt, that’s wonderful. You deserve all of the terrific things happening to you right now.
You deserve to be happy just like everyone else, so good for you!! Happy thoughts for all!
anyone who cares about you and maddy should be excited to read that you’ve found this happiness. plus, she’s totally adorable!!
Congrats, Matt. We’re all here to love and to be loved. xoxo
I am so happy for you; you deserve to be happy Matt!
Cheers from Winona, Minnesota!
Congrats Matt! You and Maddy BOTH deserve to be happy!
Matt,
I am really happy for you. Simple as that.
Also, Madeline has taken leaps and bounds towards totally growing out of baby hood, what the heck? didn’t she get the memo on her twitter not to grow up so fast?! Brooke looks like a sweetie, can’t wait to “get to know her”.
Your words for everything in life inspire me. As someone who knows both you and Brooke, I wish you all the best. Happiness, Kindness, Love and Understanding in all situations! I like to see you smiling and I know those who love you will all agree you smile alot more now! MUCH LOVE TO YOU!
Matt, I’ve never posted before, but I wanted to say I’ve never lost my parents, but I am a child of a few divorces and I know what it means to see your parents happy. I’m sure Maddy likes Brooke because she feels that you do too.
Seeing my parents go through the “grieving” process of divorce and moving forward made me appreciate the people that made them happy.
Best of luck.
Stephanie
So so happy for you! I’ve never commented before but have lurked since the beginning. You are the bravest person I (don’t) know.
I’m really happy for you. There have been several people in my life who have lost their loved one at too early of an age – and while it always seems impossible that they can want or learn to love another, it does become a need and desire and that is good, right and healthy.
Be well my good friend, you continue to amazing and inspire me.
David D from NB
Had a hunch there was a story behind the recent pictures…..congratulations Matt! I am so happy for you and Madeline!
MATT!! That is so awesome! I know I don’t know you, but I think about you all the time and I’ve been praying for this for you and Maddie. I love your explanation of it and I hope for nothing but happiness for all of you. Those are some beautiful girls you’ve got in your life there.
I’m very happy for you, Matt. Grab happiness wherever you can find it. Hold on tight to it. Never let it go.
For the record: This doesn’t change how I “view” you at all. You’re still the snarky father and brilliant writer that I come here to enjoy in the first place.
I am just tickled for you! It doesn’t change the way I view you whatsoever, I think it is wonderful….you deserve happiness and love in your life, and anyone that has anything negative to say is an asshat. Brooke is lovely, and one lucky lady! Thanks for sharing your happiness with us.
We all wish you NOTHING but the best! I think most people will be thrilled to see you start a new “chapter” so to speak — a chapter beyond the “devastated widower” chapter, altho that was certainly entertaining.
Sending much good juju!
Oh Matt, Brooke is beautiful, and Maddy seems to really, really like her! I am happy for you, that you have this new source of happiness in your life. I hope others will feel the same way. Congratulations!
I am so utterly pleased for you , you are all lucky to have each other . super happy
You sound better in your life now than what I have ever read. I’m sure when Maddy looks back when she becomes a mother herself and she will truly understand and be thankful for everything that her parents have given her, for the strength you shown her and for the biggest sacrifice her mother made for her. She will be an amazing person because you have shown her how to find happiness in the smallest of things during in the hardest of times and how to overcome where many fail to thrive.
Thank you for sharing your life with us.
Lily
you’ve given and given since liz died. it’s wonderful that you’ve found someone who brings you happiness. you 3 make an ADORABLE photo!
you shouldnt ever have to feel like you need to explain yourself to the internets.
there are those of us out *here* that are pulling for you matt, & to hear about your happiness is a wonderful thing. so glad to hear it & cant wait for the book!!!
You go, girl.
You deserve to be happy Matt. If this changes anyone’s views of you, then so be it. It is so easy for people to judge. Just be thankful that you aren’t one of those people, smile and keep going. It’s none of thier business anyway.
You are a great dad, Maddy is a fantastic little girl and the two of you have a lot to give. It would be a shame not to share that with someone else.
Really beautifully said. Well done, sir.
My mom died when I was 16, I am now 25 and for the first few years I didnt think my dad was going to go on. And the one thing I always wanted for him was to find his happiness agian. I always felt I was only getting to see the sad half of him. He has now being seeing a woman for the past few years and he has found that side that I had missed. He still talks about my mom and her pictures are still in the house. But he is able to move on with his day to day life with a smile on his face and know that he while he was lucky to have her while he did, that the last thing she would have wanted was for him to stop living when she did. Maddy deserves to have a “complete” dad. You happy is going to give her a more fulfilling life. Congratulations
Strong, Honest, & Wonderful!
Congrats, you three.
It’s nice to see you smile. I mean really smile.
So happy for you.
Matt, that totally rocks! I am so happy for all three of you. You are such a cool guy who is so open to share your feelings as evident through your blog and I personally would feel let down if you did not share that with another woman out there. There has been a definite change to your pictures lately, a different smile across your face and know we know why. It was a surprise to read it but again, I am so happy for you!
It does change the way I feel about you though, it makes me think you are that much more rad for sharing this with us. I wish you and Brooke nothing but happiness together, you are both really lucky to have found each other and Maddy is so lucky to have her Daddy happy in this way.
Awesomeness…..just pure fucking awesome Matt
XOXO
Matt,
I think that all of this is great!!! So excited for you and everything that is to come!!! Follow your heart like you have been and everything will turn out just as it should! :-0
Matt, that’s wonderful! I am so glad that you are finding happiness.
Congratulations, Matt! That’s wonderful news about Brooke and a new relationship! Regardless of what happens in the long run, I think there’s a part of our widowed selves that can’t quite come back to life until we do start dating again, until we realize that we’re able to care about someone new and be happy again. I felt normal again, happy again, funny, interesting, and like I was more than just a sad, grieving widow when I started dating someone about 19 months after Charley died. And as you’ve already found, it didn’t mean I stopped hurting or stopped missing Charley, but it definitely gave me something to look forward to each day and week. My relationship only lasted 6 months, but it gave me back a precious, important piece of myself…and I realized very literally that no new relationship could replace what I had with Charley…but it was such an astonishment to also realize that some pieces of a new relationship could be better than what I’d had with Charley too…and it wasn’t a betrayal to realize it either. Every relationship is different, just as your relationship with Brooke will be very different from what you had with Liz. Good luck to the 3 of you!
I don’t often comment, but I have followed your blog and story since very early in Madeline’s life because our babies are three weeks apart. I am so happy for you, and Brooke is a very lucky lady! Both, you and Madeline look so happy in the pictures and everyone needs to feel like that. Maddy is getting to be such a big girl and of course, she is absolutely beautiful!
I’m happy for you and Maddy Matt. Everybody deserves happiness in life.
WOW WOW WOW! Such incredible news! I am so happy for all 3 of you! Losing someone the way you lost Liz has to be one of life’s most horrific tragedies. However, you’ve endured, you’ve survived, your an amazing daddy, an amazing writer and an incredible human being. Now, you get the chance to be a partner again, to fall in love again. Nobody deserves it more and I couldn’t be happier for you!!
Oh, Matt,
This news makes me very happy. May your life grow richer and fuller every day. You couldn’t possibly believe that anyone wouldn’t want this for you. My best to you and Maddy and Brooke.
How is it that your 2 year old has better style then me, a 23 year old. Im not going to lie, im seriously jealous of your little fashion girl, (although I know your the one who dresses her in the morning and picks out her clothes) IM STILL JEALOUS! :]
I’m happy for you! Congratulations! Its just as important to Maddie for you to find love again as it is for you to keep Liz’s memory alive. I don’t think the way I said it makes much sense, but I hope you know what I mean. Bottom line is yay for you (and Maddie. and Brooke)!
Matt.
I am a lurker every day on your blog yet have never posted. I think of you both often and am so glad that you have found someone that brings so much joy into both of your lives. Liz would want you both to be happy!!!! Hope I get a chance to meet you on your book tour in Florida. Enjoy the happy moments..we only live once!
Amy
That picture of Brooke and Maddie on the couch needs to win some kind of award. What a great photograph!
You all look so very happy.
)
So happy for you!
Matt,
I don’t normally comment on your blog or twitter posts, but I’m so happy for you and Maddy.
Unfortunatly there will be those who will feel that you have betrayed Liz and her memory by moving on and I’m sure you’ll catch some shit for it. which isn’t fair. Liz wouldn’t have wanted you to spend your entire life greiving.
You are, and always will be, a widower. Maddy will have always lost her mom too soon. those are events that have shaped who you both are today.. but life goes on. people come in to our lives for a reason. grab onto this happiness with both hands and DO NOT LET GO. life is to freaking short to worry what other’s think..
I am so.happy.for.you! Hurrah!
The way I see it….Makes you happy so much the better…also if you keep a camera in Brooke’s hands also We get double the Maddie pics!!!
i’m sorry… i always spell maddy with an “ie” here! Sorry Maddy!
Oh Matt I have so happy for you! Liz would want this!
My mother passed away when I was 7. When I was 9 my Dad started dating a wonderful woman named Ines. I am forever thankful that Ines entered our life. She brightened not only my Dad’s life, but mine too.
You, Maddy, and Brooke look so happy together.
Best of luck for the future.
-Allie from Canada
Matt, First of all… I love the pictures of Maddy. She’s getting sooo big and she is so beautiful. Thanks for your honesty! I am truly happy for you and Brooke… Congrats! You’ve come a long way…and I’m happy you and Maddy have that someone to share special moments with…make new memories… and share happiness. Liz will always be a part of your life…through Maddy and through all of the memories… I’m so happy for you!! XXX Have a great weekend!
Happy for you!
Thank you for sharing this with us. We all have to continue living and I’m glad to see that is what you are doing. I love the phrase “moving through” not “moving on”. I’m going to share this post with a good friend that lost her husband 5 mos ago. She is 35 and has a 4 yr old daughter & 18 mo son. Someday she will need to read this and understand she deserves to be happy again.
Thanks for sharing this with us, and glad there is somebody making you happy.
I’m so happy for you. Life has seasons and I’m happy you have found a way to cherish every second.
I remember her at the Gala. She was mega cool. Congrats!
She was my first stranger comment on the pregnancy.
Wow, what a great post. I am so happy for all three of you. Maddie is one lucky lady. Her mommy looking out for her in heaven and you and a beautiful lady, Brooke, here on earth watching out for her.
I didn’t know Liz, but from your posts, I think she would want you to move through. I am super excited to see where this takes you.
Brooke-way to go lady!
SO SO SO very happy for you and your family. you deserve some fucking happiness.
I had a feeling:-) So happy for you all.
We love you.
Ahh. . . Good for you Matt. Happiness is everything, and you deserve it so much.
Glad to hear you’re all happy.
Is this the same Brooke who wrote in my LLF thank you card? If so, she has wonderful handwriting!
Seriously, though.. I’m happy for you. I don’t believe that you can really CHOOSE when or how any of these things happen. And if it makes you happy? Well, that’s all that matters.
not that you need mine (or anyone’s) permission or approval, but i think it’s wonderful! much happiness to all of you.
I don’t understand why people would think any differently of you, or any less of you, just because you are finding a new form of happiness! I’ve never met you or Liz, but from reading your blog, I cannot imagine that Liz would want you to remain alone just because she is gone. I’m sure she would want you to be happy and live your life. You are not diminishing anything about Liz or your life with her just because you have found someone who makes you happy (and you do all look very happy together). If people think any less of you, then they just don’t really get it.
Congrats and keep writing!
Congrats! I think no less of you – in fact, I think it’s wonderful to see you and Maddy so happy. Best wishes!
So happy for you and Maddy… Wonderful!
Matt,
You should never give a damn what any of us think. None of us are in your shoes—even those who think they are.
If you are happy and Maddie is happy and Brooke is happy—who gives an f what we think.
However, I am thrilled that you are happy and are seizing each day as it comes with whatever it brings. I can’t even imagine what you have gone through these nearly 24 months. Nor, to be honest, do I want to.
Continue to be happy and letting us view a bit of your life.
I don’t know why, but this post made me cry.
For some reason, I think it brought your loss back to the forefront for me. The fact that you even have to worry about justifying moving forward in your life is painful to me. But I think I am just overly emotional!
The other part of the tears is just relief and happiness for you. I knew this day would eventually come and I was looking forward to hearing about it. It’s almost like witnessing a “rebirth” in some way, and I guess that is what has me fighting crying over here. You so deserve happiness… both you and Maddy. This is what Liz would want for you.
I can’t believe that there are people who will feel differently about you now. I honestly wonder what their expectations are, because I can’t imagine anyone wishing that you would NOT find happiness. You don’t get a “GOLD STAR WIDOW BADGE” for living the rest of your life alone and in mourning.
I know that Liz will always be a part of you and Maddy. I know that Maddy has been the light that has gotten you through your darkest times. And I’m so, so glad that Brooke is now a part of that, too. Congratulations, Matt.
Matt.
I am a lurker every day on your blog yet have never posted. I think of you both often and am so glad that you have found someone that brings so much joy into both of your lives. Liz would want you both to be happy!!!! Everyone deserves to be happy and I wouldn’t worry about us ‘internet stranger friends’ just live your life. I love to read about your journey everyday. You truly have a gift for writing and photography. Hope I get a chance to meet you on your book tour in Florida. Enjoy the happy moments..we only live once!
Amy
“…and with brooke
now in our lives,
there’s even more happiness.
and i don’t see
how that
could be anything
but positive.”
I totally agree! The more happiness the better. Whether it is from friends, family, children or lovers it is all something we need and deserve to have. I didn’t know Liz but I don’t think she would want you to sulk in sadness for the rest of your life, I think she would want you and Madeline to be the happiest you could ever be. I wish nothing but the best for you and hope you continue to find happiness every day. Liz is in you and she is in Madeline and she will be with you both for the rest of your life. I truly believe that when you find people and things that make you happy and help you move through, like you said, Liz and the ones you loved that have now passed on helped to bring those bits of happiness to you.
Much love and happiness! And if you are ever in San Diego and need a babysitter I’m here
I love the picture of Maddie splashing in the water. Great shot!
I hope that everyone will understand that your new relationship with Brooke has nothing and everything to do with your relationship to Liz. Nothing because this is new and wonderful and you and Maddie deserve this and Everything because if you hadn’t had such a great relationship with Liz then you likely wouldn’t even be open to developing this new and different chapter in your life. (Did that all make sense? It did in my head.)
Congratulations to you all. You have my best wishes for much happiness in the future. Looks like you’re off to a good start.
Matt, so happy to see you happy. You deserve it. I don’t think that anyone would expect you to be alone the rest of your life. Brooke is beautiful!
it’s been a while since i had last cried reading your blog.
no idea why that was. i guess i just felt kind of weird crying for you, you seemed okay. and this made me cry again for some reason. i guess it’s because i’m now sure you’re okay.
i don’t know if you notice the impact you can have on people. on me at least.
i make no sense at all.
but i am terribly happy you’re happy. in the best way possible.
Matt,no one knows better than you that life is short. Good for you. Enjoy.
Matt – I imagine it took great courage to write this post, and even more courage to open yourself up to a new relationship in the first place. I commend you. You set such a brilliant example for Maddy, and for us all. We can’t control many of the things that happen in our life, but we can control how we respond, what we make of it. I think I speak for many of your readers when I say that we welcome Brooke to your life (and by extension, to our lives).
Gah – misspelled Maddy as Maddie. Sorry. My niece is a MaddIE and I just go on auto-pilot when I write that name.
This made my day, Matt. We have all been supporting you from a distance for awhile now and those of us who have experienced loss know that healing feels impossible at first. You deserve this for yourself and for Maddy.
now i can tease you openly about how i like brooke more than you
and yes, when it’s time, i’ll call and tell you “you were right.”
love you guys! (all 3 of you!!)
I am so unbelievably happy for you. My eyes teared up as soon as I started realizing where this post was going, and the full blown tears of happiness fell when I saw the happy pictures of your family. All my best to you, Matt!
I am so happy for all of you. It makes me think even more of you, knowing that you see that happiness she brings to both of your lives.
good for you Matt! anyone with sense should realize you can love more than one person at the same time.
p.s. those green shoes of Maddys are so adorable!
Another beautiful post.
And I think Lauren up there took the thoughts out of my head:
we all deserve to be happy, matt.
happy. & loved.
be happy.
Lastly, the photos with the bigass frame and the couch? THEY ROCK MY WORLD.
@Rachel
yeah…that’s her. she volunteered for the foundation before i even knew who she was, and she continues to work hard to help us out.
cheers to smiles and laughter, my friend. (and is that a hoegaarden i see in that picture that she is drinking??? only my FAVORITE beer of all time.)
my my is maddy turning into quite the little lady… and with a big birthday coming up soon. cake and ice cream for our spring toddlers who will be 2!!! (and a hoegaarden for me…. i’m totally spelling that wrong, aren’t i??? and if it’s not even a hoegaarden, then i will really be embarrassed.)
nevertheless, your happiness is contagious and i thank you for sharing it.
I have always wondered when this would happen, knowing that you would be hesitant to share with everyone, but I cannot be more happy for you. I think you will be surprised to hear that everyone wants you to find happiness and that we all understand that Liz will always hold a place in your heart and be a part of your lives. I wish you the best with Brooke . Remember that you don’t need all of us to approve your choices, but I think that everyone who loves you and Maddy is happy that you have found someone to share happiness with. Congrats!
i haven’t commented in about a year but love the updates and still feel attached to your family, without ever knowing you.
our daughters are very close in age and we both live in la and you remind me quite a bit of my man. i have made him promise me that if anything were to happen to me, he would continue to live and be happy for our daughter’s sake. that he owes me that.
if anyone wants to give you shit for allowing some love and happiness in your life then they don’t deserve your shit.
from what you’ve written of liz, i reckon she would kick your ass if you wallowed in pity and didn’t live the best life you could for yourself and for maddy.
congratulations on your new relationship and thank you for continuing to share your story with us.
you’re quite an inspiration. whether you ever meant to be or not, you’ve done a whole lot of good.
What wonderful news, I’m so happy for you, and I am sure Liz is too!
Good for you, Matt. We all want you to be happy- that’s what life is all about, and you deserve everything that is good. And anyone who knows Brooke knows she is a sweetheart. Happy for all three of you! xoxo
OOPS! i wrote ‘they don’t deserve your shit.’ um, TIME. i meant they don’t deserve your TIME.
crap.
oh…it’s a hoegaarden (i had to look it up to spell it correctly).
not quite sure how to put this… I cannot speak for Liz, but as someone who is with a person who makes me so happy, whole and replete I would want this joy for him and our children should I pass.
Your life is a beautiful, bittersweet journey to watch. I am so grateful to you for sharing with me. I wish you all nothing but sparkles and colors (as my six year old says when something is utterly amazing).
That is great!!!. I knew it would happen eventually. You are too great a guy for you not to find somebody special. I completely understand. I was widowed on October 14, 2000, the result of a car wreck. I never got to say goodbye. I think of Scott all the time, but it doesn’t consume me anymore. In the beginning, like you, I thought I could never ever love anyone ever again. But I found out that I could love again and still not tarnish my memories of my deceased husband. I remarried on September 19, 2004. We have two beautiful children, Ethan 4 and Katie 2. My husband, John understands my need to do things like go to the cemetery or the crash site. I was not in the vehicle when it happened. I try to do these things while he is at work, but he knows that I do them and is not bothered by them.
If your happiness changes the way some people view you then fuck them.
BTW: Brooke is beautiful!
If anyone views you differently for finding love again then screw em. Seriously. I think it’s wonderful that you know what love is and that you want to experience it again. How horrible for Maddy if you holed up and never loved again. I don’t for one second think that you will ever stop telling her how wonderful and great (and short) her mother was and how deeply you love(d) her. but Maddy will also be able to see how you deal with death… you march forward and find your new happiness. That’s a damn fine message! Excited for you in this new phase and can’t wait until the book comes out!
Wishing you and Brooke the best!
Just to add my good wishes to the many here, you deserve it.
You rock Matt!
Matt, I’ve been reading your blog since day one and have never commented. But today I feel compelled. I could see a difference in your face in the pictures lately and knew something had changed. The best way to honor Liz is to surround yourself and Maddy with love. So happy for you all.
I don’t know how any rational person could begrudge you dating again. I wish all three of you all the happiness in the world.
fuck anyone who thinks you should wallow in despair the rest of your life. if it changes the way some people think of you, then they don’t think of you as an obviously great guy who deserves to be happy.
the description of you dying and being reborn a moment later with memories of your past life is perfection. perfection. it explains that kind of death – one so close to your soul – better than anything i’ve ever read.
GREAT!!!
GOOD FOR YOU…
You all look very happy.
…and I am sure Liz is looking down smiling, filled with joy to see you happy.
hot damn, that’s excellent. continued good wishes to all of you.
wow. i love this post. love that you are happy. but that you are still honoring the life you had with liz. and now building a new love with brooke. it’s hard for me to wrap my head around. can’t imagine how it is for you. happy for you all!
So glad that you feel comfortable sharing this good news! Continue to be happy in this new relationship. Enjoy this new adventure!
Congrats and best wishes to all of you, it’s exciting news! The way that you live your life is so beautiful.
Hi Matt! I’ve never commented on here either, but I’ve been reading you blog since I saw you on Oprah. Your news definitely doesn’t change how I view you. I will still read you blog and enjoy it as much as before. I will still buy your book when it comes out… Can’t wait for that! Even though we’re strangers, we do care about you and want you to be happy. If you’re happy, then I’m truly happy for you. Congratulations!
So lovely. Happy to hear that you’ve found another source of happiness – sooooooooo important.
Aloha.
Beautiful! I wish you much happiness!
I am all weepy because I’m so happy for you! I really hope people don’t judge you for choosing to find happiness again. You are such an amazing husband and father and deserve such good thingsm Brooke is incredibly lucky as I’m sure you are as well because you have her in your life!
Fuck the naysayers. You deserve happiness, hope, and Brooke! Congrats on, er, “coming out.” Whatever. You know what I mean.
Squeeing with happiness for you.
Lots of depressed women are reading this right now and sighing sadly that they missed their chance – for you are teh awesome.
Oh, before I forget to tell you…my son is ruined for all women now that Maddie kissed him (at the 5k) AND gave him his first cookie.
Congratulations on your happiness Matt. I’m so excited for you and Madeline (and Brooke too!) I’m sure Liz is smiling down on you
I’m glad you are happy and have found a new source of happiness. You deserve to be happy. The photos are brilliant and show just how incredibly happy you all are.
Well, I never knew Liz, but I fancy myself a lot like her in terms of sassy-ness, and all I have to say is good for you.
This blog and the book are both amazing ways to remember Liz. Maddy will never NOT know what her mom was like. She’ll be able to look in the mirror and know that she has her mom’s eyes. She’ll be able to know that her little quirks come directly from the mother she never got to know. She can’t ask for a better gift than that. And Liz? She’s probably beyond pissed in the afterlife that it took THIS long for you to finally feel like you can move on. I don’t need to tell you–life is short. You’ll feel pain and you’ll probably miss Liz everyday for the rest of your life, but you can’t dwell and you can’t be sad. You can be wistful and think about what might have been, but you can’t feel guilty for being happy, and you can’t allow yourself to NOT be happy. Life has a way of happening around us no matter what, and your life is a good one. Keep it up.
I’m glad you’re happy. You’ve earned it.
Congratulations and SO happy for all of you. You deserve happiness and I would bet, Liz would want that for both of you.
Nice work Matt. And for the record, she is way cooler than you.
Matt I have been following you from the beginning…
I think that it is awesome that you have found someone to share your “new” life with…
Happiness is always AWESOME…
Best wishes…always…
I am truly happy for you Matt. Brooke is beautiful! Please don’t worry about what other people think. Happiness is something everyone deserves and everyone goes about it in different directions. Who are we to judge! I will say a little prayer for you and Maddie so that you can continue on this wonderful, happy, road!
Always read – but never comment, just had to say that you made my day, I am so happy for you. Happiness is a gift and I’m so glad it found it’s way to you.
Matt, I didn’t read what everyone else said because I wanted to say it anyway, even if it’d already been said:
I don’t for one second think that Liz would have wanted you to spend the rest of your life alone. Without knowing her, I have the feeling she would have told you to let yourself love again. You deserve to be happy and we all know that you will never “replace” Liz… and Maddy needs someone, too. Be happy and if people say crap, then you don’t need them.
Congrats Matt! I’ve been waiting and hoping you’d find a new special someone when you were ready and things were right for it to happen. She looks and sounds like a lovely lady. I wish you lots of love and happiness. From all I’ve read – I’ve been following you for over a year now – you are an amazing guy and she’s one lucky lady for sure. Enjoy every day because as you know all too well tomorrow is never a guarented. I look forward reading what your future brings…
I don’t think there is a reason you should feel guilty about this. I think you should and deserve to be happy because Maddy deserves to be happy too. You’re her whole world and if her daddy does not come out of his cave, she won’t be able to see her great father in the sun with her, enjoying life next to her without guilty.
And I don’t even know you well, I hardly know you in fact, but I’ve been reading your blog for a while now. It’s got me into it because it’s real. What you go through everyday is real, and there’s countless number of people going through the exact same thing. All the effort you’ve been doing so far to capture all Maddy’s moments and bring it closer to Liz’s moments is more than a proof that the woman standing next to you now is not going to replace Maddy’s mom. In neither of your hearts. And I’m honest when I say that I feel that Liz is happy with this, with this situation. Because it’s a chance to be even more happy. When you love somebody that much, it’s all that matters. I’m sure Liz is smiling up there and is glad that you and Maddy can now have somebody else to count on. And she’s smiling because she wants you both happy, I’m so sure of that. It’s what makes her happy too.
You’re a great father, Matt. You really are. Give yourself the chance to come out of the cave so you can play with your little daughter and your girlfriend in the light. I wish you nothing but success, happiness, health and love. To you, to Maddy and to Brooke.
Congratulations.
We’re all happy for you.
What wonderful news. You look so happy… and you deserve this. I am sure that Liz is smiling.
Ditto Adam in SLP!!! =P
Matt ~ What wonderful news!!! With the pain and loss you have suffered, you deserve all the happiness in the world! If anyone were to give you a hard time, they ought to be ashamed of themselves! You owe noone any explainations. The pictures are wonderful, and you guys looks great together! It’s awesome to see you happy!
i am so fucking happy for you. i know, that is some strong language. but it is true. i am.
going Through is the hardest part; coming out the other side is sweetest. descibing it as a death of yourself; i can relate to that. i live in a Before and After myself; but the new normal, over 3 years later, is pretty nice. The insight I feel I continue to gain through this period of loss and darkness, this cocooning phase, really is worth the brightness I now feel towards the future. I thank being done most of this period of Through, and I wish you the same.
& look at your beautiful girl grow!
Same for me – always read, but never comment. But, this is was a great post. Everyone looks so happy! Brooke is beautiful. Lucky guy to have such lovely gals.
Long time reader. Very infrequent commenter.
I just want to wish you happiness. In any way you can find it. Finding another love honors Liz. It honors her by continuing to find love and happiness in your and Madeline’s lives.
May you continue to move forward, with her memory forever with you, sharing love and joy.
GOOD FOR YOU!!!! Whether Brooke is the one that will always stand by your side, or one that will be here just for now, doesn’t really matter. You are happy, it seems she is happy, and Maddie is happy too. GOOD FOR YOU! I wish you all the best.
I gotta admit, I’ve been secretly waiting to see if you would find a woman to (hopefully? maybe?) share your life with, and share your experiences with Madeline with. I don’t know anything about being a widow or widower, but I have lost loved ones and I know it’s hard to imagine “replacing” them — but you’re absolutely right. It’s not a matter of replacement. It’s about taking life one day at a time, and accepting each person who comes into your life as a new opportunity to love and be loved.
And look how many of us are saying “I’m happy for you”… happiness just keeps on giving.
I am super happy for you. Brooke looks gorgeous, Madeline looks wonderful as always, you look so contented…those are some super happy photos.
I have been follwowing since your People article and feel like I know you and your family from all your posts – you deserve this! You all look SO, SO happy. You are a young guy with a young daughter and you both deserve to have a 3rd partner in your lives – it seems everyone is very happy for you in your decisions – it is quite obvious you loved and will forever love Liz, but you also deserve to go on in life to love again…
Great News!
yes!!!!!!! i got hoegaarden right!!!!! that means i can haz one now???
cheers, brooke.
This brought tears to my eyes. I am so happy for you and Maddy. Liz would want you to find happiness. Of course children bring happiness, but companionship is different and I am so happy to hear you found that with Brooke. I can’t wait to hear more about her in the time to come.
I’ve been reading you for a long time, but I’ve never commented, but this is something I’ve wondered about you for a while – could someone so obviously and lovingly dedicated to Liz, raising a child who bears a very close resemblance to her, who rightly wants to raise his child to know all about her mother, could or would that man be open to falling in love with another woman?
I’m glad to see that your heart is open, and it appears that Brooke has been good for both you and Madeline, and for that I am so happy for you.
As for whether other widowers or widows think you still “get” them, all I can say – not having that experience myself – is that there isn’t any one “right” way to live after the loss of a spouse. Some people remarry very shortly after, some never do, and they all have their own reasons for making the choices they do. Your choices are your own, and you don’t owe anyone any explanations.
I wish you, your sweet little girl, and Brooke all the best.
I also covet Maddie’s tiny, green, NB sneakers!
I’m just a lurker. Never commented. But this post made me happy. I’ve been wondering when this was going to happen (as I see theres a lot of us whom have been waiting for this). I am so happy for you Matt! I’m excited to see you new “adventure” with Brooke and I’m glad to hear Maddy loves her!
So happy for all of you!
Gosh, Maddy gets more and more beautiful each day!
Having a new relationship is a good thing. Congrats. *hugs*
So happy for you!! You and Maddy deserve to be happy. Be well!
You shouldn’t have to defend yourself or your happiness, but to be honest, when I started reading this post, I was like, ‘who the hell is brooke?’ And to admit this next bit it is lame because I don’t even KNOW you, but I looked at flickr and I didn’t like her.
BUT, and this is a big but, as I finished reading the entry, I realized there was no reason not to like her and the only reason I was immediately turned off was because Liz wasn’t in those photos. I was upset that it wasn’t Liz and it never could be, which again, I don’t even really KNOW you guys other than this blog so my feelings about it kinda of don’t make sense.
However, maybe if others are turned off by this it’s because they feel the same way? They wish it was Liz there and it’s not so that’s why they have a problem with it? It doesn’t have anything to do with you or your happiness or Brooke, but with Liz. I don’t know if any of that makes sense and I hope I don’t get flamed for it.
I just wanted to be honest with you because you’re so honest with us, Matt. And I’m really glad you’ve found some happiness. You definitely deserve it.
So happy for you and Brooke and for your darling girl! I certainly doesn’t change my view of you. (and I’ve got the happy tears to prove it!) We all deserve happiness and while I don’t doubt you had moments of happy before, I think that as you “move through” it’s only right that you have someone to share it all with.
And I totally agree with the posts that said Brooke seems to fit your style! Congrats again!
Congrats to you Matt. Brooke is gorgeous and you all look VERY happy. May the happiness continue for all of you. :0)
Plain and simple… You deserve to be happy, Matt. You deserve it.
Happiness is a gift. I’m so glad you and Madeline are happy. Enjoy every minute.
That’s great news! My father passed away 9 years ago, my mother has since remarried and I am so happy for her. Life is for the living but in no way does that mean we can’t remember, love and cherish our memories of those who have passed.
Being happy is awesome. I wish everyone were happy in some way. Love is the only thing that really makes anyone happy… well, that and laughter. So be happy!
AWESOME! Nuff said.
I am so happy for you and Maddy and Brooke! Glad to hear that you are moving through the loss of Liz. Listen to your heart and ignore the haters!
I am sincerely happy for you Matt, Maddy and Brook!
Matt, It was bound to happen and I thought it would be difficult for you to speak of once it did. I don’t think anyone will think poorly of you – your life had to move on and of course that includes sharing it with someone. It is difficult to do for both you and those around you – I’m sure at times you will feel guilty, or feel like others think you no longer care about Liz. Your blog is a testiment to how untrue that is. You have given your daughter the greatest gift possible with this blog – the opportunity to get to know her mother and how the people in her life felt about her.
I wish you every happiness and if it works out with this girl that is great – and if not it will be someone else – and that’s okay!
This post warmed my heart and made me smile….happiness, much deserved. It’s the beginning of something pretty wonderful, that’s for certain! Congrats and Cheers!
I’m really happy for you Matt! You deserve all the happiness in the world!
I don’t know why, but I feel as if I lost a lot of respect for you. Your wife isn’t even dead two years yet. You should be focusing on your daughter. But that’s just my opinion..and you know the saying, eeeeveryone has one. If this is the best for you, then that is great. You need to be happy for your daughter. I know my comment is uber contradicting, but I guess it just goes to show you that it really does not matter how others feel – at the end of the day you need to make yourself happy, nothing more. And, ill even add in…it doesn’t matter what people (including me) think.
I seriously just cried because I am so happy for you. You & Maddy look so happy to have a lady in your lives!!
Good for you! Whatever happens, you have a lot of people behind you. Brooke is a lucky girl, you are an amazing person. I’m pretty sure everyone is happy for you, as long as you (and most importantly, Maddy) are happy, that’s all that matters!
YEAH for you. I am so happy for you.
You deserve every ounce of happiness Matt. And for that, I am incredibly happy for you and for Madeline.
Matt,
I stalk you from afar here in Canada and comment only occasionally but I just cannot resist now. Much like most of the commenters thus far, I am so completely and utterly happy for you and Maddy both. You both deserve the stars and the moon, and to see you happy, and in turn see Maddy happy because she’s happy to see her Daddy happy, it’s just beautiful.
Don’t let anyone bring you down, you don’t have to justify anything to anyone.
Best wishes on your journies, as always and much love. I can’t believe it but Maddy gets more and more beautiful every day. Oh how she’s growing up! I wish you all much love and happiness, forever and always.
I am so happy for you three. My father passed away 2 years ago and I find myself hoping she will find someone else to spend her life with. You deserve it.
I am SO HAPPY for you, Brooke and Maddy!
The pictures are great! Maddy is a beautiful little girl! I love the one of her playing in the water – she reminds me of my little girl!
Happy for you. I mean, really, really, really happy for you! I can’t imagine that anyone can read what you’ve written about Liz and think that you’re dishonoring her or have forgotten. good luck!
@hannah: You mentioned that “Liz hasn’t even been dead two years yet” – is there some predetermined length of time that someone is supposed to wait after the death of a spouse before they should feel ready to have a new relationship?
And you say Matt should be focusing on his daughter, as if that hasn’t been practically his sole purpose every day of the last (nearly) two years.
Of course you’re entitled to your opinion, and I don’t say any of this with any malice, I am just honestly curious about your position.
I’m a long time lurker drawn originally because of the robot ( sorry) but I stayed because of your writting! I think it’s important for you to know that as a complete stranger i don’t think or view you as any different! Your just a man living laughing (sometimes cryin) & loving! Life moves on & sometimes we sit it out for a while but eventually we have to get back on the journey or it’s wasted!
It’s ok to be happy even when you’ve lost so much. Seeya hugya *G*
SOOoooo happy for you! It’s amazing & wonderful when we get to experience great joy after great sadness!!
Never be ashamed of happiness! You and Maddie both deserve it and I am so glad for you that you have some added joy in your life.
So happy for you – congrats!
A wise soul told me people who have known true love and happiness with another person quickly find it again after the death of their partner. They know how good a relationship can be. In fact, a dear friend began seeing an old high school classmate just six months after the loss of his wife of forty years. In no way did this negate the love he had for his beloved. While he still openly mourned his wife, he had a more hopeful presence.
Many blessings on all your new adventures!
Matt, I’m so happy for you. As a couple of others have said, I always knew this part of the story would come some day. And I’m so happy you chose to share her with us.
And I love the fact that she works for LLF. It’s as if Liz brought her to you. I’m sure Liz is as thrilled as the rest of us that you have been able to continue to have happiness in your life, even in ways you never expected.
Cheers to you and Brooke.
I’ve been following you from the very beginning, but rarely comment. That being said, I actually clapped when I got to the part about you two dating. (I may need help…)
Here’s wishing you, Maddy, and Brooke all the happiness in the world!
Congrats!! So happy for you!! you deserve happiness just like everyone else in the world does!
Congrats! I’m so happy for you!
So happy for you!!! I wish you & yours a long and happy life in the Garden of Awesome.
My face hurts from the perma grin this post has given me. I am SO happy for you, Maddy and Brooke!
Much love!
She is beautiful and you deserve whatever happiness you find out of life. I couldn’t imagine anyone begrudging you this. This is a new chapter in your life, not one that erases any of the old ones. I wish you all the best
Good for you!
Robyn Hitchcock did a song – My Wife and My Dead Wife that really hit a chord with me. If anyone had told me how much my late husband would still be a part of my life after 11 years, I would not have believed them. I have a great life now but I still love him.
I’m so glad you have found someone else to make you happy. Life has dealt you such a crappy hand and you deserves to be happy. Wishing you and Maddy the best in what looks like an amazing bright future!
Congratulations! I couldn’t be happier for you and Maddy!
Whooo hoooo!!!
Congrats Matt. I am so happy for you guys! While I want to say “I was wondering when this coming” I know that having someone enter your life in this capacity must have taken a lot of thought and courage.
You should never have to feel the need to justify your actions. You have shown time after time what an amazing father, friend and person you are. Anyone who would judge you for finding happiness in Brooke and moving forward either isn’t ready to move forward from the grief in their own lives, or just doesn’t get it.
Yaaaayyy! Congratulations and wishing you much happiness. And Matt, don’t you worry, all of us who have “been through it” would only want you to be completely totally happy, in whatever direction your life leads you. Your marriage taught you that love is wonderful, joyous, and life affirming, and you are living that way now. Your finding happiness and love again can only give others hope.
I’m a long time reader and this has brought me to my first comment!
I think this is lovely.
Yay for you and Maddy – and yay for Brooke! If people think differently of you in a negative way – screw ‘em. I couldn’t stop smiling as I read this post – I feel so happy for you all to be together, making each other happy. Brooke is lucky to be part of your adventure, and you all deserve to be happy as you move through…
i’ve often wondered how the fuck you’d go on and take a step back into a relationship. you deserve so much happiness and i’m glad you have found a bit more. you have a great head on your shoulders and an amazing grasp of your life. and i want maddy’s green new balance. so so happy for you and maddy.
I was just wondering about this today. Glad to hear you are all happy.
Can’t wait to meet her
Miss you guys!
So Happy for you. You desereve this.
I haven’t commented here very much, but I wanted to say Congrats! It’s great that you all have found happiness. And, wanted to add that I love Maddy’s kickin’ green New Balance sneakers! My daughter Molly (26 months) is a shoe connoisseur already and would definitely demand those if she saw them!
Wow! I was wondering throughout this week when you would be ready to take this next step. As your blog has progressed, you’ve evolved and I had a feeling this kind of news had to be coming soon.
My husband told me very early on in our marriage that if something should ever happen to him, and I was left alone, he wanted me to find happiness again with another person – not to merely exist for the rest of my life alone grieving and wishing for what was. That was definitely something I didn’t want to think about then, and I try not to dwell on now, but I agree with most of these posters…Liz would want her daughter to know who she was, how much her mom loved her and her daddy and how much she meant to you, her friends, and her family.
As it appears you’ve come to discover, cherish what was but live with what is. I can’t help but think that Liz would want the love of her life to find happiness again.
Good luck on this next chapter – happy for both you and Maddy! And let’s face it, you’re a pretty hip dad who’s done an awesome job managing her wardrobe, but it’s always nice to have some female help there every once in a while!
…now it’s time for me to duck out of my office and go find some tissues. God, I hate not having a cubicle or office.
And this is how it should be. Life goes on. You were not meant to be idle in yours once Liz’s ended.
Matt- Be happy. Make Maddy a happy child. Fall in love. Life is simple.
Be happy. Liz would want you to be happy.
Brooke looks like a nice girl!
Good luck to you two!
I am so happy for you Matt. I would hate to think that anyone would be anything but happy for you. The love you have for Liz shines through in every post, she will never be forgotten. You deserve this happiness Matt. Congrats!
You have a way with few words tha makes me feel like you’ve just told me your whole heart! I’m guessing that she’s a MN girl, by the way you referenced her visiting…and well, MN girls are usually pretty darn sweet!!
Enjoy every bit of happiness that these days are bringing you because you deserve them!!
Much love from the frozen tundra to you all!
wonderful
Matt! That is so wonderful!! I am so happy that you have found more happiness. I know that Maddy is the light of your life but this is great. Thank you so much for sharing this with us. Most of us may not “know” you but we feel like we are somewhat part of your life. In no way should you feel like people would look at you any different. We aren’t except that you have found someone to make you happy again and understand you. Everyone deserves that no matter what has happened in their life. You are truly an inspiration with what you have been through and accomplished over the almost 2 years that have passed. Don’t be afraid to be happy!!
I just smiled and said YES- when i read the news!
I know you only through your writing, but I can’t tell you how relieved I was to read this. I always kind of thought that there must be moments in your grief when you must need someone there who could help in a way that writing can’t. This means that you’ve succeeded in stopping your grief from consuming you completely, leaving you a lost soul. It means that not only have you succeeded in raising a little girl who is beautiful beyond belief, but you’ve managed to take some steps to heal yourself, too. You may just be okay, after all. Never the same, but happy again.
Yay, I am crying tears of happiness for you. You deserve to have someone special in your life and am glad you have found Brooke.
This will in no way deter me from supporting the foundation you set up for Liz, the foundation is in her memory but serves a much bigger purpose.
Keep on doing what you do, you’re an amazing person!
being with brooke doesn’t mean that you didn’t love liz with all your heart and that you won’t still love her for the rest of your life. it doesn’t make liz any less maddy’s mom. it doesn’t mean that you aren’t capable of understanding the pain widows and widowers are going through. it just means that you’ve met someone to give kindness to you the way i’ve seen you give kindness to countless others over the past months on this blog. i wish you and brooke and maddy all the best – you seem to be such a wonderful man and deserving of all the good things love has to offer.
If I do say so myself.
I have always thought you were fucking awesome!
Congrats!
I have been following you for a longtime but have yet to post. However, I wanted to congratulate you on your new addition in your life! I was soooo happy for you when I read about Brooke:)
No one can comment on your decisions unless they have been in your shoes! Everyones path is different and I think it is wonderful you found Brooke who makes you happy! You deserve it!
Liz was and is so very proud of you and that will never change! She trusts you in your decisions and knows you only do what is best for Maddy.
I am guessing she is from MN and we have some lovely people in this state:)
I have been following your blog for as long as Maddy has been alive and this is my first comment. The first time I read about your story, I cried at my desk. I want you to know that you have once again brought tears to my eyes, but for a whole different reason. I’m so happy for you and Maddy! I wish you all the happiness you deserve.
I was having a shitty day at home sick with my one year old. Feeling bad that we weren’t outside enjoying the first day of beautiful weather in months. Your post made my day filled with sunshine even if we are not outside. You and Maddie deserve so much love and happiness and I know that Liz is filled with joy that you are sharing your life with someone you really care about. PS come to Charlotte NC for your book tour pretty pretty please
Matt, I am so, SO happy for you. You shouldn’t have to explain your happiness to us. I understand why you did, but you shouldn’t have to. We know you that you will always love Liz – but how wonderful that you and Maddy have another lovely lady in your lives. Best of luck!
Amanda
I have noticed her in your pictures, but thought it might be Nanny Rachel. Goes to show how closely I pay attention!
I’m happy for you, Matt. Very surprised, but glad that you and Maddy are so happy. Liz would want you to be happy and for Maddy to be happy.
You need to get with Kleenex and endorse some tissues-I cry every time I read your blog and I know I’m not the only one.
It’s the best news I’ve heard all day! You can never have enough love in your life
I’m so happy for all of you!
Congratulations Matt! I wish you and Brooke much happiness – together and separate from each other too!
Matt-I have been lurking for some time and your post has me feeling so excited for you that I had to finally post! After losing my father, it was greatly satisfying to get to watch my mother fall in love all over again with someone else, who continues to love her endlessly to this day 17 years later. Everyone of us deserves to give love and be loved. God Bless you always.
Matt,
Liz will never leave you. She will be a part of everything, including your life with Brooke. She is gorgeous, man! I am so happy that you are happy!
There is a reason it takes two to create a child! Raising children is exhausting, but with two parents you have a tag team. When one parent becomes overwhelmed, the other parent can step in and the child gets the best of both! Being a single parent is difficult even in the best situation, but when a situation is not great the stress on the parent (and child) may feel overwhelming. I am so happy that you may have found someone to share with the joys and tribulations of parenting! And Madde may have found yet another person who will love and adore her. Congratulations on your new relationship.
Matt, I have followed your blog for awhile now and have never commented. I had to today though, because even though I have never met you I am so incredibly happy for you and Maddy. I wish you and Brooke the best!!!!
SO Happy for YOU and Maddie!
Don’t listen to any negitive feedback…no one expects you to live alone for the rest of your life. Than would be an injustice to Maddie and you. I have no doubt that you will keep Liz’s memory alive and strong. I think she’s in Heaven, saying….its about time!
Best of luck to Brooke and you! I am so happy for all of you guys! Love, Brandi
Kinda thought this was coming for a couple of reasons…
1. There’s been a really darling girl showing up in your Flickr photos,
2. Your eyes have been smiling a lot more in recent pictures,
3. The various pieces haven’t been that hard to piece together.
Still, even though this wasn’t completely unexpected, my heart skipped a beat reading it. I’m so happy for the three of you. If you are enjoying yourself and Maddy’s happy, then that’s all that matters. Reach out and grab happiness with both hands! Carpe Diem!
So happy for you Matt!
And so happy that Maddy likes Brooke as well. When I started dating my husband, my kids took to him immediately. I took that as a very good sign!
As always, Maddy looks so gorgeous and grown up!
Matt, a few weeks after my daughter was born (3-24-08) I googled her birthday (because I’m a dork) and came across your site. I’ve been following your story ever since and rarely comment. Today warrants a comment-I’m so happy for you stranger!!! Embrace the love in your life— figuratively and literally!!! You, more than most, know how precious that love is.
I was so happy after reading this post… that’s all I wanted to say
Happy people make happy parents. And that makes happy kids.
Brooke: Thanks for making our Matty and Maddy happy.
I have been reading since June 2008 and this is my first time commenting. This post brought me to tears and I had a huge smile on my face. I am so happy for you and Maddy and I wish you the best. I think that moving through and not staying stagnant is the most beautiful tribute you can give to someone you love.
I’ve never commented here either, but have read your blog since the beginning. Maddy and my daughter are only a few months apart, so I love watching how she’s growing up too! Congrats on finding new love. My husband lost his wife in 9/11 and we went through the emotional roller coaster you’re going through now…new love, holding on to someone that he and the kids loved so dearly, learning to love someone new, learning how to love and laugh again, without feeling guilty… We got married three years ago and we have a wonderful, happy blend of his life, my life and now our life. I know it’s not easy having to find a way to fit your “before” into your “now” (especially when it comes to Liz’s family)…but just know that since they truly love you and Maddy, they will eventually let someone new come into your life with open arms. Good luck with this new journey. Enjoy every moment!
Hiya, Matt – haven’t posted in awhile but am always reading your updates. It’s been amazing to see where you’ve been since I first starting reading over a year ago.
Wonderful news! You and Maddy deserve all the happiness you can find! I, like many others, had tears in my eyes reading this. Tears of joy, happy tears, relieved tears. You have so much to offer – it should be shared with someone special – and obviously Brooke is. Life is a journey – let it lead you where it may.
As far as Hannah “losing alot of respect for you” I say bah. (Actually, I’d direct alot of stronger words towards her but not going to waste my energy). You don’t need anyone’s respect and by that I mean the virtual and real stranger/friends here and in your life.
We’re all pulling for you, Maddy and Brooke – just keep on keeping on!
Congratulations-I don’t feel entitled to give an opinion on this but I’m glad you’ve found MORE happiness in life-love and a partner are the best kind of happiness. I’ve been a lurker since the OPRAH show yo.
Reading your blog has brought about some very difficult and honest discussions with my husband about the “what ifs” of life. I always tell him that life is meant for the living. While we remember, love, and learn from those who leave us here, we must continue to live. I read your blog and I write this through tears. Thank you for sharing with us how to live, even through the worst of it. I really appreciate how you have shown me to capture and appreciate the best of my life…the life before and after loss.
Long time reader, first time comment. I am so happy for you and for Maddy! Brooke is beautiful and Maddy looks very happy with her. You and Maddy deserve this new found happiness. I cannot believe that someone would change their view of you or of your love for Liz. Your life is devoted to Maddy, but you deserve happiness beyond Maddy, too. I hope that your happiness just continues to grow!
I’ve been a silent lurker.. for awhile now. I just wanted to tell you I’m so so happy for you and for Madeline… I love the way you put it.. Reincarnation is absolutely the perfect term for it. May you all enrich each others lives.
Matt, what a happy day! I’m just so elated for you and Maddy. Awesome.
Matt, I am so happy for both you and Maddy. You deserve a lifetime of happiness and I have often hoped that you would one day meet someone wonderful enough to share your life and daughter with. It brings me peace to know that you’ve found joy and have healed enough to once again experience the magic of sharing a part of your life with another someone special. Peace and blessings. Sara
First, I have to say that I love Brooke’s clothing choices in those photos more than I love some people.
Second, my mother died when I was a tot. I’m 31 now. I don’t remember her. People never talked about her to me, so I cannot applaud you enough for letting Madeline know who Liz was. Please, please never stop. I have such a desire to know if I am like my mother, yet have a tough time asking those who knew her.
My father remarried shortly after my real mom died and I could not be more lucky to have the stepmother (my mom, never really my stepmother) I do. She made my life beautiful and still does. My dad died 13 years ago. Without my mom, I’d be lost.
I can understand your worries about what people will think. But I think you explained yourself beautifully in this post (to those who might not want to understand it). I could not be happier that you found a piece of happiness via Brooke and had the courage to hold onto it.
xo.
In all likelihood, this process of starting to date again has been much more difficult for you than for those around you. While happiness is a very strong and powerful emotion, I’m sure there have been other strong emotions that come along with it in this new stage in your life. Above all else, I’m sure those that really care for you just want you to be happy. Best of luck to you as you continue your journey!
You deserve happiness. Enjoy!
I am so excited for all of you! So wonderful. Big smiles all around!
I’m so happy for you guys! You are such a wonderful man and deserve to be happy. Good luck to the three of you =]
wonderful. so happy for you both. you all look very happy – and you’ll never lose the thought of liz…how can you when you look at her little twin
I find it all very bittersweet. Bitter that another woman will be holding and loving the child that Liz never even got to touch but sweet because you deserve to be happy, Maddy deserves to be happy and if Brook makes you happy I say go for it. Life is short and time is a thief.
Life is for the living and Liz wouldn’t want you to spend the rest of your life in pain and sorrow.
She will always remain in your soul and no one can ever change that or take it away.
Good luck to you, Maddy and Brook.
All I can say is good for you Matt. I’ve been hoping for something good to come along for you and Maddie. While you will both always miss and love Liz, it is right that you have present happinesses to enjoy.
THRILLED for you AND Maddy! What a gift – happiness!! I am so encouraged by people like you who are willing to live life in front of the entire world. I consider that a gift. To be able to share in your journey – the sorrow and the joy! So, thanks, Matt. I wish you nothing but the best!
She is beautiful Matt. I am happy that you have found another happiness in life!! It is beautiful to see!
(((HUGS)))
I am very happy for you, Matt & Maddy (& Brooke)!!
I don’t like those who say that you are “dishonoring” someone who has left us by adding more joy or love to your life. Love and joy doesn’t take away from what is lost, it only adds to your life. Congratulations!
Matt,
I am so happy for you! I agree that you can still feel pain, but also find happiness! I could not be happier for you and Maddie! (And Brooke is very pretty and I’m glad she makes you smile)
~Lauren
(AKA Avid Blog Follower)
yay for y’all. hope life continues to be beautiful.
Live your new life. Couldn’t be happier for you.
So happy for you! You deserve happiness!
Beautiful post Matt.You and Maddy deserve Happiness and it shows in those great photos of all of you! Congratulations on you and Brooke.
Congratulations. Happy is good.
Maddie’s green sneakers. *swoon*
fucking awesome. congrats.
“Little darling, the smiles returning to the faces
Little darling, it seems like years since it’s been here
Here comes the sun, here comes the sun
and I say it’s all right”
This is such great news! Liz would be so happy for you and Maddie. You know that she wouldn’t have wanted you two to be alone and now, you aren’t. Congrats to you and Maddie and Brooke!! Looking forward to hearing how this new adventure unfolds!
I have cried SO many times here reading about you and Maddy and Liz. Today I found myself again wiping away the tears but this time not only touched by the words you speak about Liz and Madeline but for the happiness and companionship I have been hoping you would allow yourself to feel again! I wish nothing but the best for you and this new chapter of your lives together!
I am very happy for you! My mother died when I was 3 and I don’t remember her,but my dad remarried when I was 5 and she loved us all like her own. Life goes on and Liz, I believe, wants for you to go on, grow and love to show Maddie that life does go on. I hope it works out as it should for you.
I know that this is a very different kind of happiness than you thought you’d have two – or even one – year(s) ago, but such is the the unpredictable nature of life. I hope you, Madeline, and Brooke continue to be so very happy
it’s great to see you have a new source of happiness…before my mom died she told him that she wanted him to find a new partner. i know it was beautiful, scary, painful, amazing process for him to begin a new relationship after she died. he too has passed now, but i have comfort knowing he had a companion for the rest of his days. i think you say it best, you died and than you were reincarnated…i hope for you much love, joy and laughter in your new relationship and journey…
Oh my heart just leaped when I read about Brooke. Happiness is what life is all about and I am SO happy that you and Maddy are happy. Someone said that lately in your pictures your eyes have more joy in them- I agree- while I couldn’t pinpoint what caused it- I am so happy to see that you are back
and she has the best name ever!!
i am usually a lurker, but couldn’t resist this one. i am so glad you have more happiness in your life. you deserve it and so much more! and brooke, welcome and thank you for sharing your life with us too.
You and Maddy deserve happiness. So glad you found some more.
I hoped no one expected you to be “alone” in that area forever. You deserve all the happiness in the world. Here’s wishing you all the universe can offer!
Matt – I am so happy for the both of you – I am married to gentlemen who lost his wife in a terrible accident at their home and we met each other at church and we started dating and now we are married – it took 3 years of dating and then we got married – like the one person said – don’t worry with everyone in what they say as long as you and Maddie are happy that is all that counts – Tell Brooke she is a very lucky young lady to have the both of you. God Bless all of you.
I’d guess that dating/loving after losing a spouse is similar to having a baby after you’ve lost one. People think that you’ve forgotten, gotten over it, moved on etc but the opposite is true. There will be many moments of pure joy in your life where there will still be that pang that Liz isn’t there. You can love someone new and still love Liz at the same time. Moving forward is NOT the same as moving on. I’m thrilled that you’ve found happiness with someone and wish nothing but happiness for you and Maddy!
p.s. where did brooke get her red dress? i want it!
Oh, and can I just say, those green new balance sneakers on Maddy’s feet rock.
All I have to say is Yipee! Life is for living, sometimes we learn that from the most painful experiences, so live, live live!
Melissa
Hey, if you’re happy & Maddie is happy- then I’m happy for you = ) I think it’s great!
(And by “maddie” I meant “Maddy!” Sorry! I have a “Madi!” It’s hard to keep up!)
congrats matt…for finding happiness while moving through these times. Madeline’s smiles seem fuller and more rich in the photos you posted…like there’s something that was once missing that is now being fulfilled. best wishes to you and brooke…may your adventures together build on what you have already provided for little miss. m.
Having Brooke as one of my dearest friends, I had tears of joy streaming while reading your blog today! Brooke is one of the most amazing people in this world…she radiates with joy, is overflowing with love, and so full of life!
You are one lucky guy Matt and I’m so glad you found each other! I can only imagine how naturally she is fitting into you & Maddy’s life…what a perfect combination!
Savor every moment together and know that you & Brooke have the hugest fan club ever! Can’t wait to meet you someday…
such a beautiful post! i dont know how anyone could feel anything but complete elation for you. Those who think this diminishes your love for liz are crazy, your blog is a testament to that love and to your gorgeous daughter.
More happiness, I’ll toast to that!
I’ve never commented but read forever. Just wanted to say this post made me smile. You deserve happiness, everyone does. She’d want you to be happy. Good luck to you!
I have been reading your blog from almost the beginning of it and I’m so very very happy for you. My mom’s first husband died young, leaving her with 3 children. She said she would never marry again, but luckily for me she did otherwise I wouldn’t be here today.
Congrats Matt – way to go!!
This post gave me a big, fat smile. So happy for you. Brooke is one beautiful, lucky woman, for sure! You shouldn’t have to defend yourself for one lousy minute. It’s an undeniable fact Liz is, was, and always will be the love of your life. But that doesn’t mean that there isn’t room for more love in your life. What a sad place it would be if love didn’t grow, multiply, expand, and blossom through all of the tragedies and sorrow that come our way. Thank you for sharing Maddy and your life with all of us stalkers. The book tour really better include DC (and Maddy…and Brooke).
As I said a few a nights ago in your backyard “right on, and I’m happy for you.”
Also, please let Brooke know my mom is still trying to place a face to the name for Disco Night back in the ’70s.
Now sit the fuck down, get back to writing, and finish that book!
I am happy for you.
I am so so happy for you. You and Maddy deserve all the happiness in the world. Can’t wait to hear more about Brooke!
As the daughter of a widow I say thank you! Thank you for being honest. Thank you for taking the risk to really know and be happiness in all the beauty and messiness of life. Thank you for continually surrounding Maddie with strong, positive women and now providing Maddie glimpses of what a relationship can look like and the gift it is. You have to walk through the fear to get to the love – congratulations!!
This email made my day. So happy for you!
Oops, I meant “post”, not email. Gah
Hi Matt,
I’ve never commented before, but I’ve read you blog since the beginning. My son was born on Maddy’s due date. I am so happy for you. You and I have very similar tastes in music, and while you may have already heard this song, it makes me think of your journey. Best wishes.
“The Weary Kind,” by Ryan Bingham
YOU DESERVE THIS.
Fuck anyone who says otherwise! I’m so happy for you.
Hi Matt, I totally lurk on your blog every day, and I talk about your story with my friends and family. I think you are an amazing inspiration and an awesome dad, I often wish I had a dad like you when I was a little girl.
Anyways, I am so friggin happy for you. You’ve come such a long way.
Thank you for sharing your story, and for letting me watch little Maddy grow up.
You both deserve the best.
You deserve it. Be happy.
I am so happy for you and Maddy! Liz would certainly want you both to have happiness in your life. My sister lost her first husband when their daughter was only 7 months old and after seven years she met a wonderful man and they married and had 3 wonderful children. There is happiness after such tremendous loss.
thats so wonderful. i wish you nothing but the best.
Brooke means “water, small stream” (http://www.thinkbabynames.com/meaning/0/Brooke). Water often represents good health and new life (http://www.pureinsideout.com/water-myths-mysteries-and-symbolism.html). I think Brooke has come into your lives to help “wash away” the pain and is the start of something new and amazing for you and Maddy. I have been a long time reader and had a big smile when I read this post…
Wishing you much happiness Matt.
…another one of you loyal lurkers, who just had to post today! You have moved up yet another rung on the “really evolved guy” ladder. You are so emotionally open, it was just a matter of time until love found you again. So happy for you! Many many thanks for including us all on your journey. Your experiences and insight have helped me. Thank you … I’ll go back to lurking now…
Congratulations for taking a huge step! I look at it as Liz sending you someone that she thinks can take your crap:) And also sending someone that will love Maddie and you the way that she did.
I think this is wonderful! Some may find it strange and hard to swallow. Hell you probably ran thru those same emotions on your own. But moving forward towards complete happiness for both you and Maddy is what is ultimately important.
Holy Crap Maddy look so much like Liz in the picture with the dandilion! She is SO cute!
I think that in life, we are dealt many cards, most of which we DO NOT choose. You were certainly dealt one, one that you were very much not expecting. You have certainly made it more then clear to the world, most all of us strangers at one time, how much you love Liz! You, I am certain, always will. If you are able to find happiness in this world that, let’s face it, is sometimes hard to walk even under the best of circumstances, then I for one, and very happy for you. I know full well that Liz will always be kept alive for Maddy, through you, and having said that, she will ALWAYS be a happier, more content and confident person if you are happy! That is all she will ever want! Much love from Seattle!
I was hoping when you were ready you would have found me first…But I suppose I’m still super happy for you!
OMG..I am so freaking happy for you Matt. I got goosebumps reading this. I squealed like a little girl too..but that’s a whole other story.
All the best to you and Maddy.
I am one of those strangers who has smiled & cried as a result of your story & the way you tell it, and here I sit again.
My dad was widowed before he married my mom & had my brother and me. Sometimes I forget about that part of his life. He was 27 when his first wife died. I look at him and just see my affectionate, cheesy ‘Dad’ – not some guy who suffered one of the most horrible sorrows I can imagine. But I know that he is the kind of dad and man he is because of what he lost… and what he gained after.
I know I am just one among many, many who wishes you EVERY kind of happiness.
Good for you! I am sure Liz is so happy for you and Maddy. Do what is best for you & your family & ignore the negativity. Congrats!
You continue to inspire me. Your words and photos are wonderful.
CONGRATS MATT! I just found your blog a few weeks ago. You are awesome and your daughter is precious. So glad you are experiencing more happiness in your life! Also, since I am more of a recent stalker – I wanted to add I think it’s so cool how you have taken Maddy pretty much everywhere and anywhere with you. She is your buddy, not just your daughter – AWESOME!
hey matt-
like many others, i have not commented on your blog before today, even though i have been a long-time reader. i must admit that i read your post today, and then had to re-read it just to be sure i’d read it right. congrats! i’d like to wish you, maddy, and brooke the best of luck in your new adventure together! you’ve got some pretty cute ladies in your life:)
quick side note: maddy is adorable – her clothes and shoes are amazing; i love the green nb’s!
can’t wait for your book.
This is your best post yet. You’ll never forget Liz. She is in your Maddie every day. So happy to hear a real happiness creeping back in. Your friends, “strangers”, and family who truly care about YOU will want to to find a new normal and be happy. : )
You definitely deserve to be happy. Wonderful news – Congratulations!! =)
The important thing to remember is that love expands and hate contracts.
You will never love Liz less but the thought that you can’t find love again is absurd. And, frankly, Maddy deserves it, too.
It is so clear in everything you’ve written over the last two years how much you love Liz. That will never, ever, change. But you will love again.
I noticed Brooke in the flicker pictures and was waiting for a post. I’m glad you’ve met her and that she’s in both yours and maddie’s lives. wishing you all the happiness you deserve.
Jasmin in NJ
“so, I kinda have a crush on Brooke…”
and now look at where you are…could not be happier for the 3 of you. It’s been fun to be behind the scenes and watch all this develop. Love you all and so happy to have you in my life.
oh and I agree with Adam in SLP…she is way cooler than you.
I’m a longtime reader who rarely ever comments but I felt I should today. Yay! The more happiness you allow into your (and Maddie’s) life the better. Wishing you all well.
Hey Matt, congratulations on beginning the next chapter in your life. I met Brooke while working on the LLF Gala and she is a ray of sunshine.
I hope she helps your healing process. Liz will also be in your heart, but your heart has room for many different people.
I’m sad that I won’t be helping with the gala or walk this year. I hope to attend though. I’ll have to think about it. I do love the mission of LLF and hope that there might be another way to help.
Take care.
I meant “Maddy” not “Maddie”. SO sorry!
So, so, fucking happy for you.
This announcement may have broken the hearts of single moms everywhere, though:) All the Matt lovers will be crying into their PBR’s tonight;)
Fuck. Does this mean I no longer have a chance with you?
Thank you for sharing this with us. Wishing you happiness!
i remember when i told the world of my new love after my first love passed away: i was scared, but elated.
those who really had my happiness at heart rejoiced.i thought finding the love of my life once was wonderful, i never imagined finding it twice. moving on, we now have two beautiful children. i have to pinch myself often.
Matt, this is incredible news. i wish you all the best & like everyone says, the picture of Brooke & Maddy on the couch ? Awesome.
Congratulations! You and Maddy deserve to be happy! I want my husband to find someone else if something happens to me. I’m glad that you have.
I think it’s absolutely wonderful. The pictures show a woman, Brooke, taking very tender care of a very beautiful little girl. I imagine she takes such care for you as well. I am thankful that your days are filled with a little more sunshine after such tragedy. I am sure losing Liz was painful for a multitude of reasons, not having someone to parent with and to be a mother to Maddy being among them. It just makes beautiful sense that eventually someone will come along to share in this life with you, to share in parenting with you, and to love Maddy the way she will want a mother to love her, and the way that Liz would want Maddy to be loved by a mother. Matt, I am so encouraged by your words, your thoughts, and your incredible love for your daughter. There has never been a moment that your love and desire to have her enjoy life has not been evident. If there is someone out there who can match you in that love, and provide the same for you, that is a blessing and not one to be taken for granted. Love is amazing. Partnership is amazing. Children are, yes, amazing. Having all of that together is just wonderful (and amazing:). Brooke is beautiful and her beauty clearly starts from the inside. You can tell from her smile and her eyes. Enjoy every moment of this very special time.
While I understand why you’ve felt you should justify it, I really hope that no one who reads this would ever feel that you’d have to. Like you said, nothing but positive.
I can imagine it strange, moving forward in this way again, and I wish you, Brooke and Madeline, nothing but happiness in this new chapter.
i’m a loyal lurker. i have never commented. but i just wanted to say that i am so happy for you and maddy, that you have both found happiness, and the ability to love another in spite of the fact that you have experience so much darkness in your life.
i think that liz loves/loved you both so much that she would have wanted you to fill the void in your lives, while never forgetting the memory of her. & if brooke is the person who can do that for you both, then that is fantastic.
She is lovely, and you deserve EVERY happiness.
I’m so happy that you’ve found happiness! Madeline looks really happy too!
YAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!! First of all, much happiness. Second of all, the reincarnation bit of this reminded me of Dr. Who.
It’s like the mind knows what’s right but the heart is always being retarded and still aches…
I knew you would find love in MN!!!
as far as I can tell, she stood up for the cause you started…the foundation, she ran the 5k, she loves maddy, maddy loves her..
at the end of the day thats what matters…
oh…now you can go buy the horse..
SUCH wonderful good news…
Hi Brooke!!
I am happy for you Matt! =)
You deserve all the happiness …i have huge smile and tears in my eyes typing this ..wishing you and maddi all the happiness and liz would have wanted this too,i am sure she is smiling from up there
I have been following your blog for a long time now, and I’ve never commented until now. I’ve smiled at your photos and watched your journey through India. I’ve watched your daughter grow and I’ve cried for your loss (and Maddies loss too).
I had to post a congrats to you Matt! I am so glad you’ve found another source of happiness. That makes me smile!
I’ve never posted because what do you say to someone who has been through the things you have? I could just never find the words. Inspired by your bravery to share this news, it’s time.
I have never suffered the kind of loss you have, but I do believe life is for living, love is for sharing and happiness is for the taking. Enjoy this time and don’t let guilt creep in the cracks. Your happiness is Maddy’s happiness and that’s what we all need more of. Cheers to you and to finding your new normal.
Your beautiful love for your daughter and Liz has made me realize over and over again how life should be for a girl. I know that Brooke is a lucky lucky girl to get to be loved by you, and Madeline is too. She’s gotta be the coolest kid I know. Best clothes, best taste in music…and she’s not even old enough to go to most of their concerts yet!
Part of me still grieves for the love you and Liz had, and the love you still have for her, but the majority of my heart is so incredibly happy for you and so excited to see where this new journey takes you.
What people don’t realize is that you never love two people the same way, and especially not when one of them was the love of your life in a way that another can never be. This is not to say that you can’t love them just as much, it just means it will be in an entirely different way. I hope this new and different journey is wonderful for you, you definitely deserve it, and it seems like it is the right time in your life.
I know you’ll never quite fill the void Liz left, but I also know you will never try to, and you’ll always remind Maddy of who she was. Hell, she looks exactly like her.
Just happy.
Life is too short to be alone and you deserve to be happy….wishing you continued happiness.
Fuck ya!
Fantastic News!
Matt – I’ve followed your blog for a long time and I’ve wondered if this would happen. I’m so happy for you. Liz would have wanted you to find happiness again. Like those above have said – everyone deserves happiness. You will never close Liz out of your life – but open a new chapter that she would be proud of. Maddy just looks smitten and that’s a major bonus!
Congrats! Brooke is adorable!
I am so very happy for you and Madeline (& Brooke)! I cannot even tell you how happy I am for y’all. It’s weird how you can feel that excited for a total stranger.
But honestly, it’s just so awesome. And the pictures are beautiful!
Wow, this post was incredible! It’s the first time I read every single comment. Someone earlier wrote “Embrace the love in your life”, I couldn’t agree more. I love to see your smiling face. Wishing you, Brook and Maddie all the best that life has to offer.
Tears of happiness for you Matt…Brooke is an answered prayer. You have loved so truly and so deeply. I am thrilled you have a lovely lady in your life. Been noticing her on your blog and am surprised how many photos I favorited because she is such a natural fit. (My most favorite? Maddy and she sitting in the sunshine on the stairway. The pink coat, the play of light, the tender connection between them, Brooke’s smiling, relaxed pose, Maddy drawing you back into the circle.) I am so very happy for you.
We live in the present. Soak in all your blessings Matt – you being happy makes me happy. Makes all of us creeps and stranger friends happy!! From the first blog my heart went out to you and you have been special and important to me. Maddy is a beautiful, charming, precious little girl and the joy of your heart. Now you have added an entirely new dimension—and I am excited to see what is next!! Thank you for feeling ready to share her with us. Isn’t it great to have someone who is already up to speed on your world? Knows the ins and outs, the whys and wherefores and totally gets it? Already a part of your life and now . . . .right there. A gift for both of you. and us.
My sincere congratulations on this new beginning. Much happiness to you three =o)
Wow! 309 comments already! Geez, you have quite a following.
I am happy for you too. You seem to be an awesome guy and any woman would be very lucky to have you. I hope that this relationship is everything you want it to be. Don’t ever be sorry for finding love and bringing happiness into your life. Best of Luck!
You don’t know me Matt but I have been reading since the beginning. I am overwhelmed with happiness for you and Maddie. Yo deserve to be happy. Enjoy every minute!!!!!
Matt, no one here wants you to suffer. I’m sure everyone is happy if you are happy. Your ability to have such a loving, healthy relationship with Liz is a testimony to your ability to love. It’s wonderful to be able to love and to share that with your daughter, family, friends and whoever else you choose. Enjoy.
May the present and future bring you only much deserved happiness, and hopefully love.
if someone begrudges you a chance to be happy again in a relationship they’re projecting their own issues…it has nothing to do with you. It’s nice to see you smiling and happy and Maddy deserves all the love and support in the world so enjoy and don’t worry about judgement.
I was looking at your flicker photos yesterday and was wondering!!!! Your post made me tear up, I’m so happy for you all.
I am so utterly happy for you and Maddie. I wish you nothing but wonderful times in the future as you create new memories, never forgetting the old ones!
mazel tov. and minnesota? fucking awesome.
GOOD FOR YOU! Good for all of you! You deserve much happiness!
Matt, I have followed your blog since April 08, and am truly happy to hear you have met someone. Life is full of change, and I don’t think it is fair to think if you lose the love of your life before your life with that person has really even begun that you don’t get another shot at finding love again. I am glad you have allowed yourself the opportunity to experience happiness with another mate again. Maddie is a beauty, I have a daughter just a few months older than her and I bet the two could get into some trouble! If you’re ever in Louisiana, look us up…
Cearley
SO happy for all three of you!!! YAY!!!!
Matt and Maddy: First of all I am so happy for you Matt, I wish you nothing but the best. I am sure Liz is smiling upon you and your daughter. As a mother, I would definately want a mother figure in my daughter’s life if something ever happened to me.
Thank God that Brooke is so photogentic because she is going to be in more pictures that she could of ever dreamed of. Matty looks so grown up, she looks happy and healthy. You did a great job over the last 2 years.
We finally took our trip, Sophia loved Puerto Rico, the sun and the beach. The plane ride her first went great, she slept most of the way there and three hours on the way back. I pray that in the near future my brother too finds someone to share his life and his daughter’s life.
Once again, great news!!!!
Rosann
Also, I lvoed the line where you said you died with Liz… and then you were born again in the next moment.
Awesome. So real and true.
Have a good weekend, Matt!
Like the many of the previous posters I have been following you from the begining, but have never posted. I am so so happy for you. I’m so glad that you have found happiness in your life again. Thank you for continuing to open your heart and soul up to all of us. Oh and one little request- are you ever going to have a post that doesn’t make my cry?! haha Congrats!
HOW AWESOME, MATT (AND MADELINE)!!!!!!!!
I am so thrilled for you two, and for Brooke!!! She is one lucky lady to be a part of your life with your precious daughter. And kudos to you for sharing with your “strangers”. You guys deserve so much happiness! I feel like Liz sent her to you and Madeline, and I bet she is smiling down on you all now.
No one will ever replace Liz (nor should they), Liz was your best friend and wife for so long and is the mother of Madeline, no matter what. But you two deserve some more bright light shined onto your lives and if Brooke does that for you guys, then welcome, Brooke!!
Hooray!!!!
Hope you find happiness with Brooke as you did with liz… God bless Maddy!
P.S. now I understand why a few weeks ago you & Maddy were cleaning the house…it was due to Brook’s inpending visit…nice touch my friend, nice touch
Well I am absolutely thrilled for you. You deserve to be happy and that fact that maddy really likes her is an added bonus. How great
Hi Matt! This post just made my day!!! It is so awesome to hear this news. If Brooke brings this much happiness to you and Maddy then that is a testament to the wonderful person she is. It is clear how much she adores both of you from the pictures. You certainly do not owe anyone an explanation but we are so happy and blessed to be part of your life through this blog. I could not be happier for you and Maddy. Much love to all of you!!
Congratulations! You deserve it!
you have been so honest with us, your loyal blog readers. thank you for, once again, putting it all out there for us. you deserve someone to listen to music with…enjoy great (or not so great) beer with…and someone to talk to in the wee hours when maddy is asleep and you don’t want to be alone with your thoughts.
thank you for sharing, though i secretly always hoped you’d date chrissy from storked. KIDDING, i kid!
much happiness to you, maddy and brooke.
Im so incredibly happy for you!!!!
you’ve got great taste.
she seems awesome. maddy seems happy. you seem good, better.
all i could possibly ask from you.
also, people can be jerks. and sure you already don’t, but just reinforcing it for you here, don’t listen to them. don’t listen to them for a second.
you’re a great dad.
I’m crying and I don’t even know you. Some may think that’s weird… for you, it should show you how thrilled I am for you and Maddy!
Matt, it doesn’t matter how other people view you, only how YOU view you, which will reflect on how Maddy views you. You deserve all the happiness in the world and I’m in tears for your joy.
Congratulations on finding happiness in your life again!
Matt,
I’m a long-time reader, first-time poster. But I had to comment. I’m married to a wonderful man, and we have a daughter just a little older than Maddie. I can honestly say that if something were to happen to me, I would want my husband to find happiness with somebody else. The thought of him being lonely just breaks my heart. And I trust him to choose someone worthy of having a relationship with our beautiful daughter. The only thing that matters to me is their happiness, and from reading your blog, I’m pretty sure Liz would feel the same way.
Find that happiness where you can, Matt.
How wonderful for you and Maddy! (and Brooke!) Looks like an awesome weekend spent together… here’s hoping there will be many more of those for you three.
I’ve been waiting for this post for a long while. Be Well. Be Happy.
Thank you for sharing, Matt. You didn’t have to tell us about Brooke–but you did. It made me smile to read this post.
Never apologize or offer excuses for happiness. You deserve every ounce of it that the world has to offer.
xoxo
YAHOOOOOO!
WOO HOO!!! I am so happy for you Matt. No judgment here… just pure joy for your joy. I do not doubt for a second that the memory of Liz is alive and well. Brooke is an addition, not a replacement. Enjoy every second. You deserve it.
All the best to you.
Rock. On.
Amazing news. You are an amazing father and have honored Liz in so many ways! I am sure she is smiling down on all of you. The level of love you had with Liz is inspirational. She would want you to love again. I am so thrilled and excited to watch this new chapter of your life unfold. Thank you for inspiring us with your actions, words, and good deeds.
Matt –
This is awesome news — I’m so happy for you! Wishing joy and happiness for all three of you.
All us strangers out there reading your blog know that you loved Liz and she loved it. That is apparent. I didn’t know Liz (obviously), but I’m sure that she would have wanted you to be happy. From where I stand, Brooke is a good thing.
this post makes me all kind of happy. I’m really happy for you all, Matt.
Thrilled for you and Brooke, as well as Miss Maddy.
You don’t owe anyone an explanation. You deserved to love and be loved. Liz would want you and Mads to be surrounded by someone who loves you both. I am SO happy for you and Maddy that you found someone who cares for the both of you! I think that all of us that have been following your story all want for you and Maddy to be happy, and in the end that’s all that matters!
Oh my awesomeness. The end.
I’m so very happy for you, Maddie and Brooke. You deserve it.
I’m so fucking happy for you.
So.Fucking.Happy.
I am teary eyed with happiness for you Matt!!! Weird though…. I started following your blog in May 08. I was pregnant. We both went back to work on the exact same day in Oct 08. I felt a distant connection to you having to leave our babies at daycare to return to work. My baby, her name is Brooke. You have found a real gem Matt!!! I am so so happy that you are happy in your new life. Congrats and best wishes in the future.
I’m another long time lurker commenting for the first time. Your heartfelt writing often brings tears to my eyes and this post did also – - but for the first time it was tears of joy. You (and Maddy) deserve to be happy and don’t for one second worry about what anyone else thinks about your new relationship with Brooke.
So happy for you guys!!
Love isn’t rational or linear. It just is.
Blessings to all three of you!~
I can’t imagine anyone not wishing you well Matt. You deserve to have happiness in your life, it’s just that simple.
Yay!!
So happy for you. Hope to hear more about your (and Maddy’s) adventures with Brooke!!
Matt,
I never comment, but this post was so beautifully written. I am so happy for you, and know that Liz is too. You are a wonderful father and person, and I just love reading this blog. Best wishes.
awesome…
YAHOOOOOOO!!! I was so looking forward to this time for you. It’s good for Maddy and it’s good for you and Brooke. Liz would want you to be happy and for Maddy to have an encore mom (ooops, am I jumping the gun a little?). Now I’m going to go read all of the other (300+) comments and feel the love…
This is most excellent news. Congratulations!
What a beautiful thing. ♥
Best of luck and well wishes to you all.
Just curious to know, how did Liz’s family take the news?? I’m sure it’s bittersweet for them…..keep up the good work with raising that adorable cutie-pie!!!!
@liz
you know, they’ve been amazing.
i consider them to be my parents, and they will forever be that for me.
they will remain in our lives no matter what, and brooke agrees.
bitchin news! i’m thinking the only disappointment for people is that you’re off the market. and i agree with what many of the other commenters said about your apparent happy twinkling eyes as of late. i almost commented last week that you look HOT with such a big smile, but figured i’d be judged for crushin’ on a widower, so i refrained
anyway, I have definitely noticed your (and Maddy’s) joyful expressions on your flickr stream and could not be happier for the 3 of you.
i don’t know brooke, but i already love her!
happiness is a great thing.
Yay, more happiness, there is nothing wrong with that! I love the picture’s with the frame, you are so creative.
Cpngrats, Matt! You deserve every happiness and yes, you are still the shiznit in my book.
Matt- I kind of guessed from your flickr account ;0). The thing I noticed the most, honestly, was how happy Maddy looked in Brooke’s arms and just being near her. That is HUGE.
I am so thrilled for all three of you. What a lucky woman, and how lucky for you and for Maddy to find someone so special.
You deserve this–and I know those first steps must have been terribly hard.
Good for you! Don’t know how to express how happy this makes me. Look forward to more!
Hi Matt,
I am another lurker – don’t normally post comments but I had to tell you congratulations! I think it is wonderful news. Not only that Brooke will be good not only for you but Maddie too!
I don’t know, Matt. The reaction seems pretty positive so far, but I suppose those who disagree probably won’t post a comment since they’d get SLAMMED from all of us “strangers.”
I can’t say it any better than those who have come before me …..
AWESOME!
Beyond thrilled for you, Maddy and Brooke!! Congratulations and thank you for continuing to share your story with us.
I’ve always been a lurker…never a commenter but I wanted to say congratulations.
One more thing …..
You’re an amazing daddy. Maddy is an amazing child. Brooke must be amazing, too!
And I’m so glad Tom and Candee are on board with it. I know they wish you all the happiness in the world. I will NEVER forget the warm welcome they gave me last year. NEVER. Give them a hug for me.
Oh boy, this puts a big smile on my face and brings happy tears to my eyes. Wherever you find happiness Matt, you deserve it, and so much more! My best to you always, and your ladies.
Matt, I am happy that you are happy. I don’t think anyone would think of you differently or less of you. You deserve happiness just as much as the next person. Madeline is as adorable as ever. Congratulations.
I too smiled all the way through this post knowing where it was leading to…what great news Matt! I am (as are many others) completely elated for you and Maddy! Brooke is a lucky lady.
Congrats Matt and thanks again for sharing your life with us!! I believe we have several soul mates in our lives and I’m so happy you have found one who makes you and Maddy Happy!! Continue to write and share you story cause you know we love it!!!
Matt, this is amazing, wonderful news … and anyone who thinks otherwise is going to have all us stranger friends to deal with!!!!
No one (especially Maddy) will EVER question how deeply and completely you love and honor Liz.
But there is also no question at all that Liz would want you and the smart, gorgeous, incredible girl she made with you to find and hold on to every bit of happiness that you can.
Brooke and Maddy look like partners in crime already, and the group shot on the couch is awesome.
I am SO happy for you.
Congratulations Matt. I have been reading your blog for a long time and never commented but this is wonderful news. I wish all 3 of you the best of luck and lots of fun!
be happy, matt. i think that’s everything all of us here and everyone that knows you want. you deserve it so amazingly much.
i was just wandering, how does brooke feels about the whole thing? the crazy creeps and liz’s family and your family and you and all that?
i’m trilled that you’re, as you said, starting to move through. i hope that someday, in this new “reincarnation”, you’ll get to be as absurdly happy as you were in your previous life.
Yay!! You can’t worry about what other people think, but it’s easier said than done. I have been reading for over and year and was hoping you would one day decide to date again! congrats!!
You and Maddy deserve every happiness! Thank you for continually being so honest and open and sharing your life with all us strangerfriends.
I know I don’t know you in real life, but I’ve followed your journey on your blog for quite a while now. I am so thrilled for you and Maddy. Brooke is a beauty and it’s wonderful that she has brought you happiness and Maddy as well. Looking forward to continuing to follow your journey!
I haven’t read each comment, but the ones I DID read all seemed to echo my thoughts. Strange how blogging opens you and your life up to the world to critique, huh? I’m sure Brooke understands that she’ll never replace Liz nor fill her shoes, and that she’s probably helping you mourn in ways she may not quite understand. Your life isn’t for us to understand and you never need to justify your actions, but I appreciate your openness and willingness to share such a big hurdle!
Congrats to you and Maddie, and a huge welcome to Brooke as she joins you on this amazing journey!
)
I just discovered your blog last month and have gotten so much from reading about your journey. I recently married a man with 3 children (only two at home when we met) who lost his wife to cancer the year before we met. The situation is so different in that he knew for almost two years that she would die; but your perspective has helped me understand how my husband transitioned from grief to being ready to love again. After working hard for two years to build “our” life, which included moving into “our” home, we and the one teenager still at home feel like family. I hope the three of you find that too!
she’s a beautiful girl and i’m glad maddie likes her!
That’s awesome matt!
This is WONDERFUL news.
I have been reading your blog for a long time now and have never commented but this post really left an impression on me. Your attitude and strength are so, so amazing. Your thoughts about reincarnation and moving through left me in tears, but I’m so happy to see how well you (and Maddy) are doing.
absolutely thrilled for all 3 of you. Life and living such an incredible gift- I can not imagine anyone NOT being so glad and happy for you! And if they aren’t, I just hope they keep it to themselves and not feel the need to share of themselves
Matt I am so happy for you and Maddy. I am sure Liz would be super happy for you to. She knew you loved her and still do. I am glad you have found that happiness again.
Best of Luck and can’t wait to hear more about your adventures.
Loveeeeee the pics from the past week. Maddy is getting so big. And those bright blue eyes. Love em.
Take care
I’m so glad that you have found someone to help put a true smile back in your life and heart.
There is no way you will ever forget Liz and I’m sure Liz would be happy that you aren’t sitting around mourning every second of your life until you are 100! She really loved you and would want the BEST for you and Maddy!
Maddy will be a forever reminder of Liz. She looks so much like her, and from what you say, she has many of the same mannerisms. You’ll only see more and more of that as she matures. You will never stop loving Liz, but your heart has room for more.
Just like a first time parent may never think they have enough space in their heart for another child – that there is no way that they could love another child the same, when the next child comes along, the love is just as much as for the first (Just probably a little different). Your heart has plenty of room to love and be happy.
I am SO happy for you!!
I have wondered to myself about when you’ll find someone and how it will come about. Following your blog, sure, this comes as a surprise. But a happy one. You do deserve to find love again!
I also know it has to be a special person to take you and Maddy on- and I truly mean that in a good way. You know what you are known for, and Brooke has to be able to handle that, and to handle the memory of Liz that will always be a part of your and Maddy’s life in a way that is really very unique.
I wish you the best of luck, and a world of happiness. You deserve it, and maddy deserves it.
I’ve been following for such a long time, but rarely – if ever – comment.
But today I just had to. I’m so pleased for you Matt, for you and Maddy.
I’ve been in a similar place – I lost my childhood sweetheart of seven years in a car smash, just before our wedding, and I thought that was it for me, that life was over.
But you’re right, and I used almost exactly the same phrase – you never get OVER it, but you get THROUGH it.
And I did. I’ve been married for ten years now to a terrific, loving, understanding man. It never goes away, but life comes up to fill the spaces around the hurt.
Reading this post has really made my day.
Be happy, Matt, and don’t ever feel like you have to justify yourself – you, Maddy and Brooke deserve it.
I wanted to add- you commented about widows and widowers thinking you no longer “get” them…
I went through 5 years of infertility treatments, and I’ve had the same issues and concerns once I got pregnant w/ my son.
Some people can “move on” in a way that does make them forget, that does make them no longer get it.
But I know what you mean. There is a part of me that will always be “infertile”. There is an emptiness in me that can’t be filled. The path I took sucked, and I know many women who are still dealing w/ IF think anyone who gets pregnant “forgets”. But… not all do.
Being infertile is a part of me, and it’s something that I actually hold close to my heart. I will never fully “cross over”.
As I know it’s impossible for you to ever do, either.
You deserve to be happy!
You loved your wife while she was alive and you love her now. What happened was a tragedy but you and Maddy both deserve to really live and to be happy. You don’t strike me as the kind of guy who would jump into something without knowing that you were ready and you know what’s best for you. I am thrilled that you are able to find happiness. Liz would want you to be happy, as do your many readers. Congratulations!
Ah-ha! I’ve had the sneaking suspicion there was a behind-the-scenes lady! I think I’ve been expecting you to mention it in the last few blogs. I’m so glad you finally did.
She’s really lovely. You look great together. AND, her clothes are awesome!
I am entirely too elated on behalf of a total stranger…
Matt I am SO HAPPY to read this. What an awesome thing that you have been able to find happiness again.
Best news I’ve heard in a long time!!!!!
EEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!! I am just so incredibly fucking happy for all 3 of you!
I kept wondering who the lucky girl would be. Glad you are able to share your heart again. She’s a beautiful woman, all the best.
Matt- I have been reading your blog for a long time. Your love for Liz and your daughter pores through every word you write and every picture you take. It has taught me so much and Im so glad you share it with us. That being said Im so happy that you have something else in your life to make you happy and madeline. There will never be a doubt how much you love them and Im so glad you are doing what is best for you. Thank you for sharing all of this and I cannot wait to read your book!
I’m sure my heart was racing as fast as yours was writing this, that had to have been so hard. Glad you “came out”
She looks lovely!
Oh and I LOVE the green tennies!!!!!! love love love them:)
You don’t know me, but I am so happy for you and Maddy. Keep smiling!!
Mattt, I have never commented before but having read your entire blog I feel like I have to. I just have to say that Liz never would of wanted you to be alone for your entire life. After reading the blog I can tell she loved you deeply and only wanted you to be happy. Maddy does bring happiness into your life but at some point you had to think of yourself. Im so thrilled you have. Liz will always have a piece of your heart but there is room to love another. Im so glad you finally found someone. May you find peace in your happiness. God bless you, Maddy and Brooke.
Brooke, you better be good to our Matt, or thousands of middle-aged housewives will be on your ass! so happy for both of you! enjoy life.
Matt-
I’ve been waiting for the day to hear this news ever since I started reading your blog, well over a year ago. Even though I don’t know you (in person) I’m incredibly happy for you. You’ve made me cry on several occasions, but this time they’re happy tears! My husband thinks I’m nuts. Anyway, CONGRATULATIONS to you, Brooke and little Madeline!!! (And thank you for making my day.)
With all that you’ve shared over the past 2 years, I feel like you are part of my family – like an older (or younger?) brother. So, I feel like ranting something about her being good to you and Maddie, but I will show some restraint and simply say that I’m happy for you.
You diserve to be happy! Congratulations to all three of you!!!
This is my first comment, just felt compelled to say, that while you fear widows/widowers won’t think that you “get” them, you are actually providing so much hope.
If anyone reads your posts from the early days, progressing to now, they will see that “getting through” is possible, difficult as hell, but possible. You continue to help people through that darkness. It’s amazing. This world is made better by people like you, people who are courageous enough to share themselves, good and bad.
Enjoy this. And best wishes.
Matt, that is wonderful news!! I am so happy for you and Maddy. You deserve happiness, and I’m sure Liz is looking down and smiling. She is happy for you as well!! All the best in your new relationship.
Matt, I’ve been following your blog ever since your first post to the Star Trib Crib Sheet, but this is my first post. I’ve cried so much with you over the last almost 2 years and today I find myself shedding some tears because I’m so happy for you. And I can only imagine some of the mixed up feelings you’re having through this, but in the end, I’m just so glad that a wonderful woman stepped into your life again. And it speaks volumes that Maddy has taken to her too. And Maddy is beautiful as always.
Doesn’t change the way I think of you at all. You’re an amazing father, photographer and writer. You deserve to find happiness and enjoy a full life. Congratulations!
You need to make it ‘official’ by posting a photo of Brooke and the robot…..Congrats!!
I don’t think anybody could possibly begrudge you of your happiness, past, present, or future. Personally, I’m absolutely thrilled! You and Maddy deserve all of the best things in life and I’m just so so so happy for you.
Matt,
As you know, I’ve been a reader for a long, long time…since just after Maddy was born and a little while before I mailed her the quilt with Liz’s photos on it. I’ve seen so much of you…the depair, the shattered heart, the undying love, the amazing father, the retracing of your steps on this earth with the one you loved, the uncertainty, the healing, the unmatched bond between you and your beautiful daughter and now…the happiness. You SO deserve this and I’m so crazy happy for you and Maddy!! Welcome to Matt’s blog, Brooke!! You must be a pretty wonderful woman to have opened Matt’s heart up again. Congratulations to all of you! Can’t wait to hear more about you all together. !!
Matt, I don’t know you, or Maddie, or Liz. But I certainly think that Liz would want the two of you to be happy. I like how you said you are moving through and not on. Good luck with this new chapter.
Congrats!! I’ve been reading your & Maddie’s story almost since the “beginning”. You have touched me with your emotions and honesty. Not even Brooke will scare me away! In fact, looking forward to read Brooke’s part in this new chapter of your life.
Matt,
I can relate to how it is so very awkward to talk to friends and family (especially my late husband’s) about this sort of thing… It was hard enough for me to come to terms with much less try to explain to so many other people about it. Unfortunately, I was swallowed up by guilt and it really made things much more difficult that it should have been. To this day (8 years, a marriage and baby later), I feel like I have to prove to others that my thoughts/feelings etc. have not changed for my husband.
I am so happy that you are finding happiness and that Madeline is so pleased with Brooke too! Like you mentioned, it doesn’t make all the rest go away but helps you to move forward with your life. I really hope that you receive only happiness and understanding from others!
I have also been wondering when you & Maddy would find someone special to share your lives with…it was only a matter of time. The 3 of you look very happy, and I am very happy for you. I look forward to getting to know Brooke through your beautiful words. Thank you for sharing this with us, your faithful readers.
wOOot…, you finally found someone!! I am broken heartt…lol. I am just kidding..:p
I am so happy you found someone, you go man!!! lol
I cann’t wait the new story, marriage? ehhmm did I say it to early?
Congrats and good luck
Matt I am sure that you do have mixed feelings when it comes to talking about brooke. My mother died three years ago from a pulmonary embolism and it ripped my father’s heart…luckily my brother and i were both grown….he just recently started dating again and at first it was hard for many but what made me decide that it would be okay was the fact that he was happy he still thinks about my mom and his the new person in his life was not a replacement but some one new….as long as you and maddy are happy that is all that matters…..so be strong and congrats…thinking of your family always because it hits so close to home for me!!!
Yay Matt!! That is so awesome! I’m happy to hear this news.
And of course, the pics are absolutely adorable! You daughter is so beautiful!
~AJ
How awesome and incredible! She looks like she has great fashion sense, just like Liz. It’s nice to see happiness and love flourish. Love triumphs all. Keep posting pictures of her and let us know if she has a blog because I seriously like her clothes.
Tara in Seattle
AMAZING!!! Bless you and Brooke! Not only do you have a BEAUTIFUL daughter who is full of great joy but Brooke is beautiful as well. I love the pictures of them together! And I agree with the others, no woman will ever replace her but some day the woman you spend this life with will be an additional blessing to Maddy as she’ll know 2 amazing woman love her dearly and love her daddy too! Congrats Matt
Hoping its great!
Cheers!
Matt, I’m delurking after many months of reading to say that I am so happy for you, and I LOVE Maddy’s awesome little green New Balance sneakers!
Matt, I’ve been following your blog for some time now and am happy you are happy. Thanks for sharing your life and the pictures are great! I don’t like to think about it, but it’s reality – if I died I would want my husband to find someone to share his life with and to be a mother-figure for our daughter. I am sure Liz wants you to be happy and that’s what you are doing! Good for you.
And you are right, no one or no thing can replace those who are gone. Our first child died before he was born and people would say ‘you’ll have more’ but our daughter could never replace our son. We just move forward – it has taken time but we are getting used to this life without him. And although he was not here with us long it is still something we have to get used to. Keep posting!!
Oh yippee. What a great post. So happy for you 3!
Hi Matt,
I’ve never commented here before, although I’ve wanted to many, many times. This time I can’t not write.
About a year ago I found out that some friends at work had been reading your blog (we work in St. Paul and they caught wind of it). Once they told me what it was about (and I stopped crying), I went back to your first post and took a few months catching up. Since then, we’ve been sneaking breaks at work to watch your TV appearances and checking for blog updates daily. We cry when you cry and laugh when you laugh. We can’t believe how beautiful your daughter is, how quickly she’s growing up, and how lucky she is to have such an amazing daddy. It sounds stupid, but we feel like we know you. Whenever you share something new and exciting, we cheer for you. Whenever you share a memory about or post a picture of your lovely wife, our hearts ache for you.
I could go on and on, but today I just wanted to say thank you, Matt, for sharing your life with us. You and Maddy have touched our hearts and our lives in ways that you can’t imagine. The pictures of you smiling were once few and far between, but in the last few weeks we’ve seen them more and more, and for perhaps the first time you look truly, truly happy. We are SO happy for you. (We just knew something was up!)
You remind us every day to be grateful for all that we have and not to take life for granted. Thank you. YOU ROCK!! (Oh, and Brooke is beautiful, by the way.)
How does a guy like you get to hang out with two beautiful ladies like that!!!!! I KID I KID
Matt I don’t know you but I have read your blog since Liz’s passing and I have shed tears from your words. I have smiled at Maddy’s milestones and loved every moment you have allowed us to enter into your life. YOU DESERVE THIS!!!! Don’t give a shit about who thinks what. If your family is comfortable with it and if Liz’s family is comfortable with it, then ENJOY this amazing ride! Not only do you deserve it, but little Mads deserves a pretty girl doing her hair! I mean seriously who does not deserve that!
HUGS to you! You look so happy, BROOKE is beauitful and I just want to squezze Mads…
Your stranger friend
Kayla
Seriously happy for you. And Maddie.
Much happiness for all three of you!
Ok, I’m smiling and tearing up at the same time. Life was meant to be shared and I am happy that you (a stranger–but not really) has found someone that makes you happy. Live on!
a nice minnesota girl! such great news.
Liz would want you to be happy and that’s all that matters. It’s fabulous that Maddy likes her too.
that’s great matt! happy for you.
Is “congratulations” the right word? That’s up to you, I guess, but God knows you’re due. I’m happy for you. And for Madeline, who deserves a happy father.
Matt, you and Maddy derserve every bit of happiness that comes your way! Over the moon for all three of you!
this just made my day. really happy for the three of you.
Good for you! You certainly deserve to be happy, and I’m happy for you!
Good for you. I am so glad that you have found happiness. Brooke is gorgeous and the three of you look super happy together. I’m happy that you realize that you can simultaneously miaa Liz and care for Brooke. Congrats.
I’ve been following your blog for awhile now, and I feel compelled to say – if you’re happy that is fantastic. I’m glad you shared your news with us, even though as you admitted, a few people may not be please. Just from your pictures over the past few weeks you look much happier in them and smile more. I’m so inspired that you found the strength and courage to open your heart again – she looks like an amazing woman!
I am so very happy for you Matt!
Well deserved, my friend. We all deserve to love and be loved.
I have read your blog from the very early days, and have held the notion that whenever a next love came ’round for you, she wouldn’t be able to help but fall in love with Liz, too… I think anyone who knows your story loves Liz by loving you and by loving Maddy.
All good things, Logelin(s.) All good things.
I’ve been following you since the beginning too. I cried many tears as I read your words. I cannot begin to imagine what you have been through. I am so glad that you have found someone else to share your journey and that you are happy.
I rarely comment on your site – 456 people have commented on this post already, so the odds of you reading this are slim to none. I’ve followed your blog for some time now, since just a few months after Liz died. From everything I’ve read, Liz would want this for you. You did your time in the deep dark mourning, living with that soul-crushing pain, and she knows she will ALWAYS be in your heart. She would not want you to be alone the rest of your life. And as a mother, she would want another female’s presence in her daughter’s life. So enjoy this time, and don’t worry about all of us out here, we’ve got your back.
How completely awesome for you and your daughter. Love in all of it’s forms is pure, and a gift from God. Bask in it.
Anyone who is not happy for you, or who would judge you based on this, is an unhappy person. They are dissappointed that they no longer have someone to look at that they view as being even less happy than they are. Misery loves company, and you my friend, are moving on. Good for you.
YAY!! This post totally made my day….if anybody deserves happiness it is you. As long as you and Maddy are happy, that is all that really matters.
Matt,
Is it weird that I called my mom and sisters to see if they checked the blog and knew you were dating Brooke? Oh my….so many happy tears! I cannot even find the words to express the joy I feel for you and Maddy. EVERYONE deserves to have love in their lives. I think everyone who reads this blog has fallen in love with Liz, and knows how special she was. She would want you and Maddy to live life to the fullest. How anyone could judge you for opening your heart again after a devastaing loss…..I can’t even comprehend. All my best wishes to the three of you. Oh, and could Rachel be any cuter? Love her style!
Well said. Brave man. Really happy for you, Matt. Hope to meet Brooke on our next visit to MN.
woops…my bad. I ment could BROOKE be any cuter! I was thinking of Rachel…how is she?? Miss her.
Matt this is my first time to post and I am so happy for you and Maddy, but being from a family where the daughters die young I only have one request and that is to keep the maternal family grandparents. and aunts, and uncles close in Maddy’s life she will thank you some day for knowing her birth family. I wish you and Maddy all the happiness in the world you both deserve it, you did not ask for what happened to Liz and you are a wonderfull father.
I’m so incredibly fucking happy for you and Maddy. I think you’ve done absolutely amazing these past two years for someone who has gone through the loss you have had to endure. It’s so apparent that you are a wonderful father, and that you were a wonderful partner to Liz. She would most certainly want you to share that part of yourself with someone else someday. Brooke, I’m sure, is stellar.
Awesome! I am so happy for you and Maddy! The fact that Maddy loves Brooke speaks volumes. Enjoy this new journey, certainly has started off beautifully!
thank you for sharing your journey with all of us strangers / friends! Can’t wait for your book!!!
#1, nice to see that I’m not the only one who doesn’t give a shit about what is on the side of the sippy cup boy or girl. Granted if I had a boy I might not be as bold to buy the flowered ones. However, since those cups are like gold around my area (or at least it seems since they NEVER have any in stock) we too bought the dinosaur ones.
#2, Nothing but good can come from you finding someone to share your life with. What more could anyone ask for in regards to your devotion and love for Liz? I am fairly certain that even though my husband loves me dearly he would never go through the lengths of creating a foundation in my name to honor my memory and help others. You and your daughter (who is thriving because of you and only you) deserves to have happy moments to share with someone. Someone who wants to be there for the right reasons and who can understand what you have been through. Your love for Liz will never go away and you are reminded of that each moment you have with Maddy. It will take a very special woman to understand that and respect that. I am glad that you have found her.
I don’t know you, and I didn’t know Liz, but I do know that when you love someone you want them to be happy, and I think if Brooke makes you happy then that is what Liz would want. Wishing you much joy.
Longtime lurker coming out of hiding. You deserve every happiness and I’m very happy for you. I’m certain that if something happened to me that I would want my husband to find happiness after I was gone.
How nice of you to share this good news with all of “us” out here. I wish you nothing but happiness!!
So very happy for you and Maddie. Your beautiful post brought tears to my eyes.
i admit i have been waiting for this day, knowing that it would come, it was inevitable.
like many others, i have been following your lives since reading about liz in the minneapolis paper back in april 07.
from time to time i would wonder when this day would come because i knew that it would. i knew that you had too much love to give and that someone worthy of it would eventually appear when the time was right.
all i know is that brooke must be one very special person to be accepted by maddy and you. i know you want nothing but the best for her and you would not settle for less. this brings us to the next question….will you be moving back to the Mn???? a fresh start?
whatever you do, please do not cut us off from your updates. if you have to change the blog or separate it with this new chapter of your lives, that’s fine…i just can’t imagine not seeing pics of maddy as she matures…
I am so happy for you. What a wonderful past you have behind you and what a wonderful future ahead – not to mention that the present looks pretty good too.
Thank you so much for opening your lives and your hearts to the world. I can’t wait to read more in the book. I swear I will be the first person in line in St. Louis to buy it.
Congrats.
SUPER stoked for you… seriously that’s really exciting.
and i love the picture of madeline pulling herself up on the railing looking down into the water… cute moment to catch
Good for you Matt. You put it so eloquently in your post.
Life is amazing! We can love and lose, and love again.
Congrats on your new source of happiness! It’s deserved and it’s good.
Hoping that you can all continue to live this amazing life together.
Thinking of Kahlil Gibran and “the deeper that sorrow carves into your being, the more joy you can contain.”
Matt, I imagine that your joy will be more than abundant and overflowing. So happy for you and Maddy.
I was wondering why your posting had suddenly dropped off like it had. I’m sorry you didn’t think people would understand.
I think most people who follow your blog have come to care about you and Maddy (uh, not to sound too creepy or anything, but I’m just a strangerfriend you’ve not yet met), and anyone who cares about you, wants you to be happy. I can’t imagine that anyone would want you to be alone for the rest of your life.
I’m so glad that someone else has come into your life to bring you joy.
And I’m kinda hoping that you’ll get back to posting more often now.
I am so pleased for you Matt. You deserve happiness and it is wonderful for Maddie to have the happiest dad she can have. Wishing you nothing but the best of wishes.
I am so happy that you have taken this next step. I have been reading your blog for a while and just waiting and hoping that you would start to date. Everyone has their own timing but I just didn’t want Maddie to be 20 before you started to date:)
I’m so, so happy for you.
I think we all have two great loves available in the world. Maybe more. But one at a time, please, in my corner of it.
I’m sure Liz would have wanted you to find love again, because she really really loved YOU.
X
Supa
Congratulations!!! She’s beautiful!
And Maddy is stunningly beautiful, as always.
I’m glad you and Maddy are both happy.
Matt, there was a time–probably during some of your darkest times–when I wondered if you would ever be willing to open your heart to loving again. I felt the pain when you once wrote that when Maddy is a certain age (12+?), you will have been WITHOUT Liz for longer than you were with her. And I hoped at that time that you wouldn’t still have the pain of loss as a primary focus in your life and that you would allow yourself to love again. I am so glad that you are.
Hi Matt-
My parents had a love like you and Liz…”movie love” he called it. I once asked him if he would ever remarry if something every happened to my mom and he said he would be “open” to it…and only because he was already older, not because he was skeptical. He said, once you have that “great love, even when you lose it, you want that again”…that always stuck with me, I dunno why.
My dad died suddenly and unexpectedly a month ago….come to think of it, on the 23rd, the 24th it is all a blur…..and I remember that now so very much.
Even when you had that “movie love” your heart is open to it again. The next woman in your life is just as meant for you as Liz…..they are all part of your plan, and the plan with Madeline.
Hugs to you!
Love multiplies, it cannot take away.
Oh. Yeah. Great news and what a beautiful woman Brooke is! She is an absolute contrast to Liz, tall and dark. Your relationship will probably also be a constrast to what you had with Liz. It won’t be less, only different. Enjoy every moment, you already know how short life can be.
Maddy looks beautiful and so happy in Brooke’s presence. There’s your answer if “it’s the right thing to do”.
Matt, I’m so happy to hear that you have a bit more happiness in your life
Lord knows we could all use some! All the best to you and Maddy as you write yet another chapter in your lives! 
-jen in bangalore
Awesome!!! So glad that you are letting the love into your life. I like your analogy of being reborn like a phoenix.
Mercedes Lackey used the analogy that love and friendships are like hearth fires. Just because the largest one you have goes out does not mean you can not warm yourself at others.
I thought her hair was looking super cute lately, not that you didn’t do a good job! Happy to hear the news! You deserve to be happy and to smile!
Take care,
Debbie
Oh Matt!!! That is WONDERFUL! I am SO happy for you and Maddy!!!!! Congratulations!!!!! She is just beautiful <3
I have been following you and Maddie since the big Oprah show. I couldn’t be happier for you. I have a feeling Liz would be happy too (I feel like I know her through all your posts). And hey children are the harshest critics…if Maddie loves her then she must be great!
P.S. I can’t wait for your book!
I was wondering when you would find a new love! I got a little choked up reading this..and no, I dont think differently of you. We all need love. And Maddy now gets to have someone there who will comb her hair like only a woman can..hehe.
so happy for you!! you deserve every moment of happiness. beautiful pictures.
so very happy for you matt. you deserve every freaking bit of happiness. maddy too.
@ Cathi
i read and appreciate them all.
seriously.
Couldn’t be happier….I’ve wanted this for you and Maddie so much! I even think I’ll sleep better!!! Best of everything to you.
Awesome news. Just awesome.
I don’t know if you are familiar with them, but there’s a line in a Yeasayers song that says
“The world can be an unfair place at times
But your lows will have their complement of highs”
So glad to see that you are adding to your highs.
Fantastic news! I think we have all been waiting for this for you.
Yay! I am so excited and happy for you all. I just thinking about that the other day, as strange as that may sound
I really enjoyed this post (and every post for that matter).
I now have a girl crush on Brooke…She’s Hot
Congrats!
My first though, Wow! My second though, So Awesome! (yes, I think and write like you now)
You not only have to worry about how your friends and family feel about you in your real life, but then you also have the stress of sharing this news with your online life. Kudos to you Matt for this post. Was it harder to share with your blog community than it was your own family?
All the best, always. Everyone here just wants you and your daughter to be happy.
Fuck yeah! Congratulations!
i’m yet another lurker, first time commenter, who has been in rooting for you for a long time.
seizing happiness and accepting new love in your life celebrates your love for Liz and sets a great example for Maddy!
i’m thrilled for you!
(thank you for sharing your story, btw.)
If you are ready and Maddy approves (and clearly she does
than that is all that matters. Liz wants you both to be happy and I have no doubt that Maddy will know her mother through memories and photographs. We love seeing Maddy grow up and hearing stories about Liz, but you also shouldn’t be hesitant to share this kind of stuff with us – especially if it makes you happy! I once heard a great quote from a widower that said that it will just feel right (or you will know) when it is time to start dating again.
I was a little suspicious too when Maddy’s hair was being styled, lol.
Matt,
A fellow former-Minnetonkan here just wishing you well. I started reading your blog just days after Maddy was born and have cherished each post and admired how poignantly and honestly you tell your story…
My heart swells for you, Maddy and Brooke. And for Liz, since her memory is honored not only by the Foundation but also by the L*O*V*E your pour onto her daughter each day.
Congratulations to you three.
I have been following you as well and my first post here. My first reaction was what??? but that was for Liz’s family not for you. They must have gone thru hell as it was their first grandchild and some where in their grief would be wondering when the bonds would slip away and you and Maddi were not in their life. (i nannyed a family that lost thier birth mom and the father refused all contact with the moms family) But as i glossed thru all these posts, i saw a post from you that gave me the biggest smile! You are never going to leave Liz’s family and I think that is so great!
I am so pleased for you and Maddi, hope you post for many more moons. I enjoy watching Maddi grow up.
Can’t wait for your book Matt.
I have been a reader (my husband calls me a stalker) since the very beginning and I just have to tell you how happy I am for you. I want to thank you for sharing your life with us. Madeline is beautiful and you are doing such an amazing job. It sounds like Brooke is just as amazing. I wish you guys the best of luck.
This doesn’t mean your going to stop blogging does it?
I AM SO HAPPY FOR YOU!!!
Wow…I am extremely happy for you! Your heart is so full and it’s awesome reading about it. I hope that you continue to be abundantly blessed. You deserve it!
Reading your post has made my eyes fill with water. My children were born the day after Maddie (25th) I know bad day. But I follow your blog weekly. I am so happy to read you have found happiness and Brooke is able to share the lives of you and Maddie. Your little girl is growing up and is absolutely adorable!
Screw what everyone thinks.
Michele Wallace
As a mother and a wife I know that if I were to leave this world prematurely the one hope I have is that my husband would find love again and be able to share all things good and bad with another person who loved him. And I would hope my girls would have a role model to look up to and help them through all the challenges we know life holds for us. I’m sure Liz feels the same way…. be happy Matt.
My reaction was SHOCK!
My jaw hung open, ‘he did what?’
I still have a lump in my throat.
I’m happy for you though as everyone else is. Just didn’t see it coming…..I figured sometime soon there would be a post about how long is long enough before you open the doors again. You skipped that part
Congrats though you need even more smiles in your life.
I’m curious though, what does Liz’s family think of all this?
Congrats. I wish all the best to you. (I love your pics from The Huntington. It’s my favorite place to go…just to think and breathe)
I’m not going to lie
I wish Liz were here instead of
what’s happening now
But
don’t we all
And
so it goes.
Yeah, I know I already commented once but that comment was just focused on your happiness. I also wanted to say how much I loved this post… “moving through”… I’ll remember that always.
Just as so many people have commented before me…I’m really happy for you.
The happiness is shining through your words and photos and it’s a great thing to see.
You won’t forget Liz and neither will Maddy, or in fact the rest of your readers. It’s an amazing thing to share your private journey with us in such a public way.
Your comments of reincarnation make a lot of sense to me. When Liz died, there is no way your life could ever be the same again. I’m pleased that Brooke has come into your life and helped you find more happiness. It’s a fantastic sign that Maddy is comfortable with her too
You and maddy deserve the best–so happy for you!!
What a beautiful post. I’m so happy you have found someone who brings happiness and joy to your life. Maddy is blossoming, you can see it in the pictures – you are doing such an amazing job.
Thank you for continuing to share your journey with us.
Beautiful pictures and wonderful news! Congrats on everything. You and Maddy look so happy and Brooke is the icing on the cake. We are thrilled for you!!! Best wishes!
Another long time reader, first time commenter on here. I know you’ve gotten a ton of “way to go’s” on here, but I still feel compelled to add one more! So glad that you’re finding the happiness you so deserve! I must admit, I saw the photos of her on your Flickr page and hoped she was a special person in your life! As a mother of two, I know that if anything were to happen to me, I would want my husband to be open to finding love again and having a female role model in my boys’ lives. Just because someone is gone, doesn’t mean that life has to stop for you and surely people can understand that. And if they can’t, fuck ‘em.
So looking forward to your book!
YAY!!!! It is totally ok for you to find someone new and most certainly for you and Maddy to be happy!
Congratulations!
Wonderful pics!
Seriously, what kind of lurker stranger friend am I when I didn’t even realize you had a flickr photostream until today? I could have had so many more Maddy fixes! Thank God I know this now. Fuck.
What can I say that hasn’t already been said by so many here so perfectly? I’ve been following you and Maddy daily as one of your many silent cheerleaders for over a year. My heart was instantly drawn to this little angel child of a girl who, like me, lost her mom far too soon. My mom died when I was 11, and my dad died 2 years later. I can’t say I’ve walked in your shoes as a single parent or a parent at all, but when you shared your grief in all it’s raw reality, I recognized it as if it were my own. More than that, I was blown away by how you turned this shitty, shitty situation into something so freaking beautiful (LLF, your book, and Maddy for goodness sake!). When she’s old enough to understand it all, Maddy has so very much to be proud of in her dad.
So when you share that there is someone new in your life who makes you and Maddy happy, who am I (are we) to question your judgment? You’ve done a damn good job with everything else so far in just about one of the most messed up life experiences that anyone can survive. Love and be loved, Matt. Just keep doing what your doing. It’s working for you.
Congratulations. ♥