today.
march 24th, 2010.
two years ago,
the happiest moment of
my life.
i’ll never forget
the moment we met…
it was a couple of
days before the photo
above was taken.
at 11:56am on a monday.
you were tiny.
your eyes were closed.
your mouth,
well,
it was wide open.
(it really never closed, and nowadays, there’s never a moment of silence between us).
two years ago,
i couldn’t have imagined
where life would take
us.
i swore the next day
that you would see
everything you would
have seen if things
had turned out differently.
but some months later
i changed
my view…
i decided you would see
more than you ever would have seen
if things had turned
out as expected.
this doesn’t fix things,
i know.
because some things
in life cannot be fixed.
a tough lesson to learn
at 27-hours old.
or at 30-years old.
or at any age.
but.
your happiness is
mine.
and i will forever
work to bring
you the happiness you deserve.
as i write this,
you are asleep at the
foot of my bed,
inside room 502
at the normandy hotel
just two blocks from the louvre.
(yeah, the one in paris).
if my math
and my memory are correct
the plane that
brought you here
was your 35th
round trip flight.
you’ve been to
four u.s. states,
(some of them multiple times).
three indian states.
two canadian provinces,
one mexican state
(three times, including for your first birthday, see below).
and a total of six countries
(not including the one in which you were born).
you’ve seen a lot
in these places,
in your first
two years,
more than i ever thought
i’d see in my lifetime.
but you’ve seen an
equal number of
amazing things
when we’re not traveling.
at home,
we go to the park.
we play with our friends.
we visit our family.
and sometimes
we
just sit on the
couch, reading a book,
watching a movie,
or simply
laughing at one another.
all of these places,
all of these experiences,
all for you.
(well, too be perfectly honest, doing all of these thigns makes me rather happy).
all done so that you will
have as much happiness
as possible,
so that when you wake
each morning, you
will wish for little,
except the one thing
none of us can give.
you may not remember
all of these memories
we’re making,
but slowly,
they are becoming part of
you.
(and i’ve taken tens of thousands of photos to someday help jog your memory).
two years since,
you’ve lived a lifetime.
but there are many
more lifetimes to go.
thousands of places to visit.
millions of new friends to make.
and an endless number of happy memories
to fill your dreams.
happy birthday, madeline.
470 Comments
Happy Birthday Maddy!
Happy, happy birthday Madeline. What a lifetime you have fit into your first two years. And, what an amazing father you have.
Wow. Happy Birthday Madeline. Enjoy your day!
I’ve been staring at this comment box trying to think of the right thing to say.
There is no right thing.
So Happy Birthday Maddie! I can think of no better place to spend a birthday.
Best of luck to both of you on getting through tomorrow.
Happy 2nd Birthday Madeline! Beautiful post Matt.
Happy Birthday sweet, sweet, sweet Madeline. Your daddy is doing a fabulous job raising you.
Amazing. Beautiful. Breathtaking…
Crying, of course, for what has been lost… and as I join in celebrating your girl, her life, the amazing father that has introduced her to all of us. Happy Birthday to Madeline…and Matt, seriously, may you both be blessed and kept and brought much joy in the exciting years to come.
So beautiful. I love how you said she may not remember these trips but they are shaping who she is. Very true.
Congrats to you for finding happiness in an impossible situation. Cheers!
Matt, what a beautiful post for a beautiful girl. Hoping this 2nd birthday is everything you imagined it to be for Ms. Maddy and then some more! Hope you are all having a great time in Paris. XO for Ms. Maddy!
Okay.
Crying now.
Happy Birthday to daddy’s best girl!
Beautifully written as always. Happy Birthday Madeline!!!! Have a great day in Paris!
Beautiful. Happy Birthday, M!
I am in tears reading this right now – great post Matt! Happy Birthday Madeline!
Happy Birthday Maddie. Have a great day sweetie!!!
and never forget the countless friends..
all of whom are better off because today- two years ago you were born!
Happiest Birthday Madeline!
Outstanding. Happy Birthday, Madeline!
-Chris
Weather Moose
I am crying again. the part about wishing for the one thing nobody can give made me lose it. Happy Birthday Maddie!!!
Beautiful dude, beautiful. And I love the fact that you’ve acted out a plan, and seen so much together, without that being all important, if you get my drift.
Awesome x several.
Happy Birthday Madeline!!
Happy Birthday Madeline!
Happy Birthday beautiful Madeline. I have watched you (and your Daddy) grow over these past two years with amazement, excitement, happiness and most of all, complete joy. Thousands love you (and your Dad) and wish you nothing more than a life of happiness. Enjoy Paris, and your second birthday. xoxoxo
Tears to my eyes…again…your writing is unbelievable!
Happy Birthday Maddy!
Safe travels and wishing you both another great year!
Happy Birthday to the youngest world traveler I know virtually. What a beautiful place to celebrate. Matt you should be proud of being such an exceptional father.
Crying at my desk. What a beautiful tribute for your best girl’s second birthday. (And WOW has she grown … that picture from her first birthday really shows it.)
Happy Birthday, Maddy! You are one of the luckiest two-year-olds in the whole world … and not because of all the amazing places you’ve already visited (although that’s pretty awesome), but because, no mater where you happen to be, you have one heck of a dad always in your corner.
Outstanding!
Happy Birthday, Madeline!
Happy Birthday, Miss Maddy! Enjoy Paris!! Beautiful post.
Happy Birthday Maddy!
What a sweet note to your little girl, Matt. It had me in tears as usual, but keep making these memories!
Absolutely breath-taking post. Happy 2nd Birthday Madeline!
You’re doing a fantastic job Matt!
Happy Birthday Madeline. Welcome to 2 years old, give em’ hell.
Absolutely beautiful. You are a gifted writer and I can’t wait to read your book.
Happy birthday Madeline!
what an awesome summary and testament to your unconditional love you give to your baby girl! We love you both…Happy birthday, Maddy! You are helping to fill your daddy’s dreams too! See you soon…have a blast!
Beautiful.
Happy Birthday, Madeline!
Happy Birthday, Madeline. My son is eleven and still asks about “when he was little” so it’s wonderful that you’ll have all this recorded history when you are older–the good stuff and the bad stuff.
Beautiful post. Happy birthday Madeline!
Happy Second Birthday!
Happy Birthday, Baby Girl! Congrats Daddy! Very special day for the proud Father. Lots of (((Hugs))) and Kisses XXX from Dawn, Dan and Megan in Milwaukee, WI.
My favorite:
“you were tiny.
your eyes were closed.
your mouth,
well,
it was wide open.
(it really never closed, and nowadays, there’s never a moment of silence between us).”
That says it all. Pun intended. What a beautiful girl you have raised…and even more beautiful is the bond you have with her. Happy birthday, Madeline!
Happy birthday, Madeline! Matt, you are such an amazing father. As the mother of a boy that’s just a few weeks older than your girl I am inspired by all that you are teaching her and doing for her. Enjoy your adventures in Paris!
Happy Birthday, Maddy
What a beautiful post, and beautiful tribute to Maddy. I love reading your blog, and learning about the fantastic life you give her every single day.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MADDY!!!!!!!
That was beautiful Matt. Thank you for taking us on all of your journeys, it has been a wonderful ride.
Oh the tears have started. What a beautiful message to give to Maddy on her second birthday. I’m sure Maddy will remember alot more then you realize from all her travels, especially celebrating her birthday in Paris. Hope you are all having a wonderful time, Happy Birthday Madeline!!!
Happy birthday Maddie! You are such a sweet little spark, and I have loved reading about your adventures these past two years. You are so loved, not only by your supercool daddy, but by a whole host of internet strangerfriends!
Hope you’ve had a wonderful toddly birthday!
x
Happy birthday, Madeline! You have an incredible father (but I think you already know that). May only wonderful, amazing and joyous things come to you in the coming year! Hoping the 3 of you are enjoying your time together in Paris!
Happy Birthday Maddy!
And…Matt, you’re a great dad.
Happy Second birthday to you sweet Maddy. I kind of hope you get a few terrible two’s moments in you’ve been pretty easy on that dad of yours!
Happy birthday, Maddy!!!!!
And happy birthday to you, too, Matt – because that day, you were born again in a way, too. Madeline has forever changed you.
What a wonderful post. Beautiful tribute to your sweet daughter.
Happy birthday, Maddy! What a wonderful place to spend your birthday – one of my favorite cities in the world.
It’s my once-little guy’s 10th today. His life in brief photos on my blog today, too.
Such a beautiful post. Happy birthday little girl. I hope today is a beautiful memory.
Happy Birthday sweet Madeline! And thank you Matt for sharing your journey with us…it is inspiring in so many ways! I have been thinking of you both all day today and I don’t even know you!
Happy Happy Birthday
I hope your day is as beautiful as you !!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MADELINE! Your mommy would be so proud of how wonderfully you and daddy are doing! Wishing you many more wonderful years of memories!
Happy Birthday to a beautiful wee thing.
And congratulations dad for making these 2 years the best possible.
Happy Second Birthday, Maddie! Thinking of you and your Dad on this joyous day and will keep both of you in my thoughts and prayers tomorrow. Bittersweet…
Matt, this is beautiful. You are such a great parent and Maddy is a lucky, lucky girl.
Happy Birthday, sweet baby girl!
Happy Birthday Madeline!!!
how much longer on your book??? can’t wait to go buy it!!!
To making memories..
Happy Birthday Madeline,
Happy Birthday Madeline! Beautiful post, Matt. My favorite line “and i will forever work to bring you the happiness you deserve”.
My baby is exactly one week older than Maddy, and as I watch him grow, and see the world of opportunities you seek out for Maddy, I stop and remind myself how precious life is, and how the opportunity to parent is an amazing priviledge. One that you have done with such amazing grace and strength and courage.
happy birthday madeline.
and may the memories and experiences you have had continue forever!
Wow, 2 years already. Happy birthday, sweet girl!
Happy Birthday to Maddy! She is such an amazing little girl. Two years after her way-too-early-birth, you could never tell how early she was to look at her. She is also absolutely beautiful. Despite your terrible misfortune, you are a lucky man indeed to have this little lady in your life.
You’ll be in my thoughts tomorrow. Fuck the 25th.
Happy Birthday, sweet girl, and to her daddy, too.
Happy Birthday Madeline!!!
Happy birthday to you Madeline! You grow more beautiful every day.
Thinking of you guys, and loving the photos of Paris. If you get a chance, check out Auberge Nicolas Flamel, a cafe in Paris that dates back to 1407, the oldest restaurant in Paris.
Happy Birthday Maddie !!
Happy birthday, Madeline.
Beautiful post, Matt.
I’m sorry for the circumstances that brought you and Madeline into our lives, but it has truly been a pleasure reading about all of your adventures. All girls should be so lucky to have their dads take them to Paris for a birthday. And Matt….good luck with the “terrible two’s.”
Once again you made me cry Matt. You and Madeline are two of the strongest people I know, especially you. You have come through so many hard times but you still smile and that shows true strength. I hope Madeline has had the most perfect 2nd Birthday – she is lucky to have you as her father and her best friend.
happy birthday! i used to send a thank you note and flowers to my parents on MY birthday… M will be thanking you every day of her life – for her life… good job at living, matt.
Happy Birthday Madeline! You have an amazing father! Wishing you many many more amazing travels!
Happy Birthday Madeline! A beautiful post, once again.
Happy Birthday, little girl!
Happy Birthday…what a great Daddy.
You have such an amazing way with words
Happy Birthday Maddy!
Happy birthday to your precious Maddy! You are such an awesome father. There is no way Maddy is not going to turn out to be an intelligent, funny and loving woman with great taste in music.
Happy Birthday Maddie. Congratulations Matt on making it through some of the hardest months of your life. May life on continue to get better for you, Maddie, and Brooke.
*sniff, sniff*…..totally gave me goosebumps. Happy Birthday, sweet little girl!
Happy Birthday Maddy!
Happy 2nd Birthday Madeline!! My baby, Zoie, will turn 2 on April 18.
Happy Birthday Madeline!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I Really Love This Post!!!
Happy 2nd Birthday Beautiful Madeline!!!
What a wonderful tribute to both Madeline and Liz. Happy birthday, peanut!
Annnnnnnnnnd I’m crying.
Matt, you’re a great Dad.
Maddie- You should know that you are loved by more people than you can ever meet.
Including me. a friend(stranger).
Happy Birthday
Happy Birthday Maddy! Thinking of you today ~ And of just how far you have come in the last two years…
I can’t wait to see you guys next week!
xoxo
Happy Birthday, Maddy!
Beautiful as always. Love that you are raising a citizen of the world. She’s a doll!
Enjoy your time in Paris!
Happy birthday, Maddy! Watching you grow has been wonderful! I hope you have a wonderful day! Such a beutiful post, Matt!
happy birthday, beautiful girl! what a life you’ve had already at just two years young. not the one anyone expected, but so incredibly beautiful all the same.
bon anniversaire!
Happy Birthday, Madeline!
happy second birthday, sweet madeline.
Happy birthday Maddie!
And Matt even though I dont know you- you are doing an amazing job with that little girl. Enjoy Paris!
Happy Birthday to Miss Madeline!!!
Happy Birthday Maddy!!!!
This made me cry.
Happy birthday, Maddy.
Happy Birthday Maddy girl!
Happy Birthday Miss Madeline! You have an awesome daddy who has done amazing thing for and with you.
Can’t wait to keep watching you grow.
Happy Birthday Madeline!! Hoping you three are having an awesome Birthday week across the pond! Matt-thanks for making me cry at work, AGAIN!! You’re doing a fantastic job with her!
Much Love,
Angie-From the Mpls (GO TWINS!!)
Happy Birthday, dear girl.
A beautiful birthday for a beautiful girl.
Happy birthday, Maddie.
Happy Birthday Maddy! I’ve followed your little life for 2 years and it is so exciting to see you turn into the little lady that I see now. Have an amazing time in Paris Matt! Like i’ve said before, you are an awesome dad and Maddy is beyond lucky to have you in her life.
My son was born 6 months after Madeline, to the day, just after we returned from living in Paris for 2 years. I am sure you are giving Maddy a wonderful birthday in that beautiful city. Here’s to another year of travel and adventure!
A very happy birthday to you Madeline!
Happy Birthday Maddy! Cheers to you and your Dad for all that you do!
Happy Birthday Maddie!
As I sit here nursing my little one in tears after reading that heartfelt post. You have both lost so much but have still managed to create a beautiful life. I wish happiness and joy for you both.
And 2 really isn’t so terrible, it is 3 you better watch out for!
My students are wondering why I am tearing up…I really should wait to read your blog until I get home. You are amazing! Madeline is one lucky little lady as you are one lucky guy! Thank you so much for sharing this journey with us. I can’t wait to see what the 2′s have in store for Miss Madeline!
My daughter was so easy and well behaved, but when she turned 2, she morphed into a little girl that wasn’t so easy and not so well behaved. She is back on track, but the 2′s were fun…but challenging! I hope Maddy doesn’t turn on you!
Happy Birthday Madeline and keep up the great work Matt!
Beautiful.
Happy Birthday, Madeline!
Happy birthday, Madeline! I hope your daddy buys you something frilly, very girly and pink! I hope you get some cake, too!
Happy Birthday, Madeline!
Happy birthday Maddy!!
Happy Birthday Maddy!
What a beautiful post. You are an amazing father and I wish more parents were like you. I think it’s really neat what you are doing for her and I hope that she treasures all the photos and memories you are making for her.
Hope to meet you folks in person someday…
Enjoy the birthday!
So I didn’t think I’d be crying while reading this post…wrong, wrong, wrong. That was fucking beautiful and so sweet and….wow.
Happy Birthday Sweet girl! Lucky us to have you both as our dear friends.
xoxoxoxoxo,
Tricia and Bella
Beautiful sentiment. Good daddy. Happy birthday, Maddy.
Happy Birthday Madeline!
another beautiful post. thank you for allowing us to share your life. enjoy Paris!
Joyeux Anniversaire Chère Maddy !
Happy birthday, sweet girl! (((HUGS))
Happy birthday sweet baby girl! You were such a tiny, precious love bug and have grown into such a radiant, beautiful toddler. We can’t wait to hear about your trip. XO – I, A, E, and Reagan
Joyeux Anniversaire, Madeline! Wishing you both many more years of exciting adventures and love.
Happy Birthday Sweet girl!
beautiful. made me cry
Dearest Maddy,
Wishing you the happiest birthday precious girl! It’s unbelievable that you are already 2!!! I’ve enjoyed watching you(&your daddy)grow these past two years.
Love to all three of you. Enjoy Paree
OK…so now I am bawling. Happy Birthday Beautiful Maddy!!
Happy Birthday Maddy! I hope your day is awesomely fun!
To the luckiest girl in the world, doing things that so many others dream about, with a dad that would do anything to make these things possible…
Happy Birthday Madeline! You are so deserving of this birthday trip and all the surprises along the way.
Congrats to you Matt for doing such a great job and making it through 2 years with your dream girl!
Happy Birthday Maddy!
That was beautiful! You always bring tears to my eyes.
Happy Birthday you amazing/wonderful/beautiful little girl!
You are one incredible father.
Madeline, you are one LUCKY daughter.
Happy Birthday!!! What an incredible life you both have with each other (and now the fabulous Brooke!)
Blessings!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MADDY!! You are such a lucky little girl to have such a great father!
happy birthday madeline! much strength to you both for tomorrow. enjoy your trip and take in those amazing sites and make lots of new memories to share…
Annnd here come the tears. Maddy will love to look back at this heartfelt post when she’s grown.
Happy Birthday Maddy!
Happy birthday sweet Madeline! You seem like a happy little girl, with an amazing daddy!
Happy second birthday to Madeline and happy second daddy day to you. (Just something silly my kids dad says each year on their birthday.)
crying…
Happy Day Maddie!
Happy Birthday, Maddy! Enjoy Paris, enjoy your wonderful father and know how loved you are around this entire massive planet!
Happy Birthday sweet Maddy!!!!!
Happy 2nd Birthday Maddy! Here’s wishing you a wonderful birthday!
happy birthday maddy!!
hope you two are having a lovely time in paris.
Happy Birthday, you are growing up so fast!
Well done Matt.
Our daughters are the same age and mine has been on a plane once. During that one flight I wanted to drink myself into a coma until it was over.
*bowing down to the greatest Dad in the Universe*
Maddy will eventually figure out how darn lucky she is to have you.
incredible! happy birthday maddy! i will be thinking of you guys….
HAPPY BIRTHDAY SWEET MADDY!!!!
There are so many people that never even leave their state…it’s amazingly awesome that Maddy has done SO much in just 2 years!! Thanks for sharing her with all of us Matt!
As we say here in Deutschland “Alles Gute zum Geburtstag!”
Happy Birthday, Maddie! What a wonderful life your daddy has given you. Enjoy Paris!!
Happy Birthday Madeline!
And thank you, Matt, for sharing yours and her story with me. I’m inspired often.
beautiful post. Happy birthday maddy!!!! You are one lucky little girl to have such a wonderful, loving daddy!
Happy Birthday sweet girl. I can’t believe how much her baby picture looks like her now. Love to you both.
Happy, Happy Birthday Maddy!!
Happy happy Birthday sweetheart!!!
Beautifully written, Matt! Happy 2nd Birthday, Madeline!!
Happy Birthday beautiful little one! You hug your Daddy tight.
Happy Birthday to a sweet little girl. You are blessed with a father that loves you beyond anything in this world, and I know that he will ensure that your birthday is amazing.
Happy Birthday Maddy!
Happy Birthday Maddy!!!
Matt, you have given your little girl such a wonderful gift.
Love reading your blog … wishing you happiness and Madeline a wonderful birthday!
Breathtaking – so beautifully written! Happy Birthday Madeline, and Happy Birth day Matt!
Happy 2nd Birthday Madeline!!! Sending you many hugs and birthday kisses!!! xoxoxo
This really touching, and so sweet. I’m actually crying a little.
Happy birthday, Maddie – have a wonderful time in Paris!
That was a beautiful post Matt. A love letter to your daughter…
Bonne Fete Madeline! Daddy is going to have a tough time trying to top this one next year!
)
Happy birthday Madeline.
Happy Birthday to her!!! I wanna go to Paris for my birthday…
Happy Birthday, Maddy! What an incredible journey it has been in the past 2 years. I can’t wait to watch you grow up more and see what else you will experience in life with your Daddy.
What a beautiful post! You are both so lucky and blessed to have each other.
Happy Birthday Madeline!!! Hope the rest of your life is as amazing as your dad has made it so far!!
Happy Birthday adorable girl! My son just turned one and this post made me cry. So well written and I am sure something she will read when she is older and know just how special she is to you.
Happy, happy birthday Maddie!! Beautifully written, as always.
Happy Birthday sweet girl!!!
Happy Birthday Madeline!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Happy birthday Maddy!
Happy Birthday Maddy! You are a Beautiful girl and Im sure your Mother is very proud of you already! You are doing an amazing Job with her Matt and Liz is smiling down from Heaven You are a great Daddy!
You were dealt a crappy hand…but out of the ashes, you have risen and are living a wonderful life…and I am quite sure it hasn’t been easy. Matt,you are as much a gift to your daughter as she is to you…
Happy birthday, sweet girl.
Happy Birthday, Princess Madeline!!
Happy Birthday dear Madeline!!!!!!!!! May you grow and be happy and fill your heart with joy.
Matt, you are a wonderful dad, a awesome human being and someone that makes the world a better day, every day.
Maybe I should have read this at home..happy b-day sweetheart!! XOXOXO
Simply beautiful, just as she is…
Now that there is an official section for her second birthday i wanted to once again wish her a very happy 2nd birthday, your post brought tears to my eyes. May god always bless your daughter with good health and may Liz always smile upon her from heaven. Have a great birthday and enjoy the rest of youe trip.
Rosan
That was really well written Matt. Maddy is very lucky to have you as a father. You have taken her to some pretty incredible places. Have a great trip in Paris. I can’t wait to read and see all the pictures from your trip.
Happy 2nd Birthday Maddy!! You’re turning into a beautiful young lady.
A beautiful birthday post for a beautiful little girl! Happy Birthday, Maddy
I read this at work with people giving me strange looks for the tears streaming from my eyes. you are a wonderful father, Matt. you have taken an entirely impossible situation and given your best girl everything you can. father of the year award goes to you, from this year forth. no one will ever compare. happy birthday to Madeline and many good thoughts and prayers to get you through tomorrow.
Happy Birthday Madeline!! You have been to more places in your 2 years then most people will in their entire life. You’re a lucky girl with an amazing Daddy. Your Mommy would be so very proud.
Happy Birthday, Maddy! Wishing you both “many more lifetimes” of happiness.
Happy Birthday Maddie!! Love the picture at the end of the blog! Have a wonderful time in Paris!
Happy birthday, Maddy! You have so many amazing people who love you deeply, more than you’ll ever know.
And Matt, it’s starting to annoy me that with every post, I fall in love with you a little more
So glad you guys are enjoying Paris!
Happy Birthday, Madeline!
Happiest of Birthdays, Maddie. You are so blessed! Have a wonderful trip, eat some yummy jam and french baguettes for me (ok, and some crepes, too..I miss Paris). Oh, and thank your daddy for sharing you with all of us. We are all better people for it!
Happy Birthday Madeline!!!
Great Present, but from 2 till about 24 she will just scan over it, throw it to the side, give it a quick “uh, thanks” and wonder where her “real” present is. But just wait Matt! When she is 24 this will be a great present! I hope for your sake you got a tricycle, ball popper, or new baby doll just in case she doesn’t appreciate the letter yet or she eats it! (My son has litterally eaten my daughter’s homework at 2)!
What a wonderful post for your baby girl (or should I say little lady). I have followed you both for the last two years and I am amazed at your growth and journey(s). You continue to inspire me Matt and Madeline. Thank you.
Happy Birthday little one!
may you only know the love that brought you into this world dear Madeline …and the dreams and wishes of your beautiful mama (and your daddy, too) that were realized when you were finally born. Happy Birthday pretty lil lady!
Happy Happy Birthday Madeline. Love and hugs from Texas all the way to Paris. Can’t believe it’s been two years.
love love love. the way you express yourself is beautiful and amazing. happy happy birthday maddy! i hope you are all enjoying paris!
Wahoo, the big 02!! Happy Birthday Maddie, way to go Matt…..
Happy Birthday Maddy
*~** Happy Birthday Miss Maddie **~*
Aww !! Loved the blog today !! I wish I had something like that from my father.
Happy Birthday Maddy !!
wishing you a very happy 2nd bday miss maddy!
And I’m weeping again.
Hope you’re having a wonderful birthday, Maddy! Obviously we don’t know each other, but I’ve read and been moved by it all-sending big (((hugs))) and lots of love to you both for today and tomorrow. Enjoy Paris-what an amazing place to spend your 2nd birthday! <3 
Joyeux Anniversaire Maddy, You have one the most amazing in the world as your dad and I’m sure you will be this awsome… oh wait, you already are
Beautifully written. Happy Birthday Madeline!
Happy Birthday Maddy!
Happy Birthday Maddy!!
Thank you for sharing this precious soul with the world! I’ve enjoyed the journey so far and can’t wait for the book.
You are an amazing father and have given Maddy a beautiful life.
“In an old house in Paris that was covered with vines lived twelve little girls in two straight lines. The smallest one was Madeline.”
Happy 2nd birthday sweet Madeline! So much to see! Have a great one sweetheart!
Happy 2nd Birthday Dear Maddy. What a gift your Daddy has given to you and to thousands of others by sharing his story. How wonderful for you to be loved by so many “strangers”.
Happy Birthday, Madeline! Enjoy your vacation with your daddy and Brooke!
Just another heartfelt Happy Birthday wish for you Maddy!
Matt – hurry up and get your book in my hands. I love the way you write (even though I will be laughing through tears the whole time).
Happy Birthday Maddie. Enjoy Paris. My husband and I stayed at that same hotel. Have you tried hot chocolate at Mariann’s (across from the Louvre)? It is the best!!!
Happy Birthday Maddy! You’ve got the best dad in the world! I only wish I could give to my girls what your dad has given to you.
What an amazing 2 years this has been for you both. Thank you for sharing your journey with us. Happy Birthday Madeline, and many more.
WOW… you had me in tears Matt….
Happy Birthday Maddie, you have an AWESOME life and an even more AWESOME father!!!!!
Maddy, it has been a joy to watch you the past couple of years grow. Your Daddy has been amazing with you and all us us stranger friends are proud. You are a beautiful little lady and I hope you have a wonderful 2nd Birthday in an amazing place I have yet to visit.
xoxoxo Molly
If I may add, you changed and touched thousands of lives, you and your daddy. From people you have never met but people who learned (and are still learning) about you and fell in love with you. I hope some day you can feel these divine waves of positive vibes and blessings going your way. You and your daddy’s.
Happy birthday, little girl.
Happy Birthday Maddy!! Celebrating 2 years in one of my favorite cities in the world
“so that when you wake
each morning, you
will wish for little,
except the one thing
none of us can give.”
this really really got to me in a way i cannot describe.
it’s weird, you know, you’re in all of this places and doing all of this things and meeting all of this people because you somehow want everything for your kid. and everything is not possible. and it’s so upsetting and it sucks. but you’re happy now, and she’s as happy as anyone can ever be and you’re making a life out of this piece of shit thrown so unfairly at you and your baby.
and it’s such a beautiful thing that you’re doing and somehow this just now hit me with this one sentence.
i don’t you to be depressed in any way but rather i wish you and your kid all the happiness you can have in spite of everything. keep doing what makes you happy and what makes maddy happy and this will not make up for her mom’s death, but make it meaningful and make it less of a toll on you lives.
i just wish you all the best in the world in a way you can’t imagine. happy birthday maddy.
Matt,
I’ve followed your website from the day after Maddy was born having received the news about your wife through a prayer chain. I’ve never commented,but have marveled at the wonderful father you’ve become and the life you’ve provided to her. This post sums up all the pain of the past, while wrapping it in the bright hope of the future you have for Maddy. I wish her a Happy Birthday and congratulate you on where you are and where you are going. I pray for you regularly as do many others, both known to you and unknown.
I was my dads favourite girl too for 50 yrs of my life till he passed away 3.5 yrs ago.
Love between dad and me..phenomenal, just like you and your daughter.
Happy birthday, baby girl.
Happy Birthday, dear Maddy!!! I am looking forward to follow your story over the next couple of years.
Holy geez I’m bawling over this. (Granted I’m exhausted from 3 days – or really 2 weeks – of moving and prep, but ya know, whatevs.)
You’re a wonderful father, and a great blogger/writer. Thank you.
Happy birthday Madelaine….all the best wishes for a safe, happy, and fun filled trip. we’ve enjoyed watching you grow into a little lady and hope we can continue to watch you grow….there are many more sunny days ahead. enjoy paris and matt, take both girls shopping for girly things!!!! after all it is paris!!
Happy birthday dear, sweet Maddy!
And to you, Matt: you are amazing and a wonderful father.
Happy Birthday, Maddy! A beautiful birthday letter, Matt.
oh my goodness, this made me teary eyed!! what a sweet daddy you are!
HAPPY 2ND BIRTHDAY, MADELINE!!!!Hope it is fantastic (and ever so fancy in France)!
Happy birthday, Maddy!!
the relationship between father and daughter is so special. my dad wrote letters to me every year of my life and gave them all to me in a book when I graduated college. its something I’ll cherish forever. have an amazing time in Paris!
Happy Birthday Sweet Madeline! You are a very lucky little girl!
Happy Birthday Maddy!!!
happy birthday maddie!! rock on little one, keep on keepin on.
Beautiful as always, Matt! It can’t be said enough…you and your writing are truly a gift. You are an incredible father, and I wish nothing but the best for you and Maddy in the years to come. You both will be in my prayers tomorrow. Enjoy your time in Paris making such wonderful memories. Happy Birthday to your best girl!!!
happy birthday maddy! {{hugs to you matt}}
What a beautiful gift Daddy! And Happy Birthday Maddy, you are your Daddy’s beautiful gift!
Beautiful post and a beautiful message to your beautiful 2 yr old daughter!! Love the last picture…no words can describe it!! Happy Birthday Madeline! Have a great trip!!
happy birthday maddy.
matt, you remind all to do what we would’ve, should’ve, and ought to do while we still have those around us we adore. thanks for this.
Happy Birthday Madeline!! Matt, a beautiful post to such a beautiful little girl!
what a beautiful post – brought tears to my eyes! happy birthday maddie and thinking of you both tomorrow.
Happy Birthday Sweet Maddy! Well done Matt!!! Gorgeous pic of the two of you…
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MADDY!!!!!
Happy Birthday, Madeline! I know Liz would be so very proud of her little girl!!
I know you hear it all the time, but I will say it again: You truly are an amazing father to Maddy. And she will no doubt come to love and appreciate everything you have done for her.
Happy Birthday, Maddy!!
Great post, Matt! Happy birthday, Maddie!
You’re going to grow up to be one awesome, cultured young lady!
Happy Birthday,sweet Madeline! You are an awesome little girl with an awesome Daddy.
Crying…. again. But happy tears; you’re beautiful girl is two! Happy Birthday, Madeline!
Happy Birthday, Madeline!! You are a blessed girl to have such an amazing and loving father!
Happy Birthday!! Have a fabulous time in Paris. Will be thinking about you guys…
Happy Birthday maddy!!! Beautifully written Matt!
HAPPY, HAPPY, 2ND BIRTHDAY, MADDY!!!! You have the best daddy any little girl could possibly want, and oh,,,what a great life he is giving you. Again, happy birthday beautiful baby girl!!!!!
Ha ha, you’re the dad of a two-year-old. You’re in for a world of shit now. Actually, maybe you’re not, since you’ve got what, a year or so at most of baby shit to deal with.
Two years into this parenting thing, you’re still doing a fuckin’ great job my friend.
Happy birthday to Madeline!
awesome.
Beautifully written as always! Happy Birthday Madeline!!!!
Liz is smiling down from heaven at the wonderful job you have done so far. Twenty Seven hours from today i am sure will be a very difficult day for you, i will keep you in my prayers.
What a wonderful tribute to both daughter and mother. Happy Birthday, Madeline. You have the world.
A little teary here…Happy 2nd Birthday sweet Madeline!!!
Happy 2nd Bday Madeline…
Matt – what a beautiful post.
I hope you all (all 3 of you) are enjoying your trip and the new memories you are making on this special day, while at the same time celebrating just how far you and Madeline have come over the last two years.
Happy, Happy Birthday!
Happy Birthday Miss Maddy!
Precious.
Happy Birthday, Madeline!
Beautiful, amazing & heart wrenching all at the same time. Happy Birthday Maddy!!!! Your father is amazing beyond words. Here’s to many more awesome & timeless memories!!!
Matt, I lost my mom 20 years ago, and it was the most terrible thing to happen to me in my life. I always wondered…why? Before my mom passed, I had a non-existant relationship with my dad. Over the years we dealt with her passing together, and today have a fantastic relationship, one that I fear would not have been had my mom not passed. Though I am extremly thankful for that relationship with my father, I feel that it came with a price. Would we have had that relationship eventually? I have learned not to ask the question…why? and just learn to appreciate the great relationships I have. I know you and Maddie will have the most awesome relationship, one that cannot be easily duplicated or matched. She will appreciate that so much when she grows up and learns all that you did for her. Happy Birthday to dear Maddie! You are such an excellent father, job well done!
Happy Birthday Maddy! You are loved the world over & beyond; never forget that!
Happy Happy Birthday Maddy!! You’re such an amazing daddy Matt!
Happy Birthday Madeline!!!! And Congratulations Matt on the 2nd birthday of your little best girl. Hope you guys enjoy Paris.
Happy 2nd Birthday Maddy, hold each other a little tighter tomorrow, then go make wonderful new memories.
Happy Birthday Madeline!
Thanks for another amazing post Matt. I can imagine that when Madeline is older, she will look back at posts like this one and will treasure these snapshots of moments in time.
FELIZ CUMPLEAÑOS Maddy!
She has grown up to be an amazing little person!
I’m thinking of you both and i’m sending the best vibes tomorrow!
Always in my thoughts and prayers
Besos y abrazos
Sol from Argentina
Maddy will look back one day & think “my dad gave me an amazing childhood”. Because of the excellent dad you are & because of the “experiences” you have provided her (& because she will always be Liz’s daughter) Maddy is going to be one amazing women someday. Happy 2nd Birthday sweet girl.
happiest wishes on your 2nd birthday, madeline.
enjoy every moment!
*
Wow, what a post. Maddy is the luckiest girl in the world to have you for a dad. Enjoy your trip and Happy Birthday to your beautiful girl. Hope the flight over was quiet.
Happy birthday beautiful girl!
Happy Birthday Madeline!! May you enjoy this day, and all of those to follow knowing you have the love of your father, and the world, lifting you up. All the best sweet pea!
Happy Birthday Madeline! Beautiful Matt, simply beautiful.
Hey Matt,
I heard somewhere once, though I don’t remember where, of a father that took his daughter on her first trip to Paris, the city of love. It was important to this father to be the first to take his daughter there so that the first person to show her the magnificent city of Paris would be someone who would love her forever and always for the rest of her life. And that is something no one can ever take away.
This seems to be true for so many of your adventures with that precious little girl. I hope you have a marvelous birthday baby girl filled with more love than you could possibly ever comprehend.
What a great 2 year birthday present! I may have to consider that for 42!
Michelle, Maverick & Radley
Happy birthday!!! Today is my little guy’s 4th birthday. What a wonderful day to celebrate!
You are truly giving her the world. Thank You for sharing this with us! Happy, Happy 2nd Birthday Maddie!!
I woke up yesterday and I KNEW it was a special day for more reasons than one. First, my sister’s wedding anniversary, second, one year since I found out I was pregnant with my son (after losing my first child, a little girl, a few months after you lost Liz) AND of course miss Maddie’s birthday.
Hoping it was a magical day.
It is the 25th now on my side of the world, so my thougths will be with you all today as you continue to mourn and remember beautiful Liz.
Happy Birthday, Sweet Girl!! You’ve seen more in your two years that many people see in a lifetime. You lucky girl, you! =)
Wow! Happy Birthday Maddy!!I hope one day she knows what an awesome daddy she has!
Reading this brought tears to my eyes. You are the most amazing dad I have ever “met”.
Happy Birthday Madeline!!!!!!!
Holy robot, I can’t believe she’s 2!
Happy Birthday Madeline!
ahhhh Paris! How exciting! What a perfect trip for her birthday and the anniversary. You are making more than memories, you are making an unbreakable bond.
Keep on keeping on
Beautiful post, Matt. I knew her birthday was coming up, so I looked waaayy back in the archives to find out which day. Can’t believe shes TWO! Happy birthday, sweet Madeline!!!
Happy Birthday Maddy and continue the great work daddy you are awesome.
Happy Birthday Madeline!! The most beautiful girl in Paris. Blessings to you both of you.
Happy Birthday Maddie. I’ve enjoyed watching you become a two year old!!
Happy Birthday Maddy!
A beautiful post Matt. Through it I can see just how far you have come in your grief (and in your writing!) I hope you are having a wonderful time in Paris and as always, thanks for sharing.
Happy 2nd Birthday Madeline!
Happy Birthday beautiful!!
happy HAPPY 2nd birthday Madeline! you don’t realize it now but you are extremely lucky to have a father like yours who loves you so. i wish you many, many, many more wonderful and happy birthdays.
More than the trips, and the pictures, Maddy is going to apreciate your words more than you will know! Such a sweet letter from an adoring daddy! Good job Matt!
Felicidades por un ano mas!
(Congratulations on another year
Happy birthday Maddie.
For me, having followed your for almost the entire two years since Maddie was born, I say thank you.
Thank you again, as I’ve said a few time before.
Thank your for bringing us along on this journey.
Happy Happy Birthday Maddy! Enjoy Paris
Great post Matt! Happy Birthday Sweet Maddy! May your year be filled with happiness, love, and laughter!
Happy Birthday Madeline!!! Matt, Liz would be so proud of all you’ve done and all you do. You are a fantastic father, and I know you are fulfilling all of Liz’s dreams for Maddy.
Matt,
Our daughters share this day as their birthdays, mine 3, yours 2! Beautiful words to honor your relationship with your special little girl. You’ve both come a long way! You are helping Maddy become an amazing girl and creating lasting memories!
Enjoy Paris!
~Liz
Happy 2nd Birthday Miss Maddy! I lost my Dad 7 months ago and he loved me like you love your Maddy.. oh, this post just did it to me, excuse me while I get a tissue..you have a way with words, an amazing talent! Have you ever considered writing a book?!
Beautifully written! Happy Birthday Maddy!
happy birthday baby girl! matt… this was beautiful. you are such a great father.
Wow! Amazing to watch her two years go by as I’ve been reading since almost the beginning and have a daughter just a few months older than Maddy.
Thank you for sharing your lives, Matt. Thank you for trying so hard for that beautiful girl of yours.
Happy Birthday, Madeline!! May you have many, many more memorable birthdays!!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
I have been reading your blog since I saw you on Rachael Ray. It has been quite a ride with you and Maddy. Happy Birthday to Maddy! Have a great trip.
Happy 2nd Birthday Madeline!
Beautiful post, Matt. Happy birthday, Madeline!
Happy B-day Sweet Girl. You are such a beautiful combination of your mommy and daddy.
It amazes me that I have been following you two for 2 years. Matt, you have done an awesome job with your little cutie. Enjoy Paris!
Jen
Beautifully written, Matt. Happy 2nd birthday, Maddie!
Happy Birthday sweet baby girl.. it has been such a pleasure watching you grow up these last 2 years! You are one lucky girl!
Matt, I’ll be thinking of you tomorrow. Hope it goes by ok.
beautiful. as always. so proud of you two. so happy you are welcoming happiness back into your life. i can’t believe i’ve been following your blog nearly 2 years (my guy turns 2 soon, also)
happy birthday beautiful little Madeline!
book coming soon? update please!
This stranger has been thinking about you guys all day today. Happy Birthday to Madeline and all of my (OUR!!) best to you.
Happy Birthday sweet Maddy!!! In two short years, you have inspired more people than most do in a lifetime. Hope you have a wonderful day…I mean, who gets to go to Paris, France for their birthday?!?
Oh, Happy Birthday Madeline! Your birth has created quite a sensation. But 2 years in this world is another huge milestone. Tomorrow, your Dad will be sad, not so much what is gone, but what was suppose to be. Matt, you can travel the world, meet new friends, make new adventures, but what Madeline will remember is; you were there. You laughed and you cried. You held her when she was scared, and sick. You will say “no” when appropriate, and yes to everything else. Maddy, though gifted with over 1,000 pics of her trips will remember, you loved her mother, and you loved her. God bless you two, today and tomorrow. Thank you for allowing us to be a part of this journey. My best to Liz’s parents tomorrow, they will be on my mind. Have a wonderful trip, the best is yet to come. Lori
This post is filled with nothing but love..completely awesome. Happy birthday Madeline!
HAPPY 2nd BIRTHDAY MADELINE!!!
Matt, I think you are an amazing father and your writing really touches so many people. What a gift.
Enjoy that precious 2 year old!!!
Always brought to tears…not sure if it’s the sincerity in your writing, the sweetness in that precious face of your daughters’…or a combination of the 2, I’ve been a reader since your stint on RR, and I am positively in awe of what you do for your daughter! And of what she does for you…both, clearly apparent in your writing! I cannot wait for the book! Matt, you are still amazing – you are an extraordinary father; and your daughter is just as precious as they come.
HAPPY 2nd BIRTHDAY MADELINE …thank you so much for sharing her with us Matt!
Happy Birthday sweet Maddy! May you enjoy a lifetime of happiness and good health.
Great post. What an amazing city to spend such a bitter sweet moment. Happy birthday Miss Madeline!
I loved how, at the age of 2, she has already experienced a lifetime of memories. Her daddy sure has learned the value of just one day.
God Bless you Matt, and I’ll be thinking of you and Maddie tomorrow.
What a wonderful post Matt.
You are right…..everything Maddy may not remember now is Shaping the lil girl she is becoming. Someday she will be a woman and look back at everything you have done for her…..and she will be in awe of everything and be so grateful she has sucj a loving father.
Matt you are doing a wonderful job raising her and I cannot imagine a better place for Maddy to be on her second birthday then in Paris.
Happy Birthday Maddy you sure are a cutie and growing up so fast.
Also matt I personally want to thank you for allowing us your readers to follow in your life with Maddy.
I hope that tomorrow isn’t a bad day for you. I know liz would be very happy for all you have done with Maddy and the things you are continuing to do for her.
Take care and safe travels and again
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MADDY
Happy Birthday sweet sweet girl! May it be filled with lots of love, kisses and cuddles.
Happy 2nd Birthday Dear Sweet Madeline–you are loved by so many, and we are having such fun watching you grow up!
Happy Birthday sweet girl. Congrats Matt, you’re doing an amazing job.
Happy birthday to a beautiful child. Happy birthday to a beautiful father. It must feel good to trust Brooke so much that you would bring her on this trip to celebrate your daughter’s special day, and celebrate a life well lived, albeit short, of Liz.
Peace.
happy 2nd birthday maddy
Dear Maddy – we love you so much and we hope you are enjoying Paris in the spring time.
Happy 2nd Birthday and we can’t to see you and daddy back in Mn.
You sure are a world traveler for only being 2 years old. You’ve seen more places in 2 years then many people in a life time.
Love
Grandma Bev & Grandpa Tom Logelin
Wow, everytime I come here, I cry. Happy Birthday, Miss Maddy, and Happy 2nd Anniversary of becoming a DAD, Matt!
I pray that you have a safe, lovely trip, it gives you some space, some peace, some memories. I will be praying for you both tomorrow.
Blessings, Megan
Wow, I can’t believe it’s been two years! Happy birthday, Maddy.
Happy Birthday, Maddy!
Two years… really? Already? Oh my goodness… Happy Birthday Sweetheart, you are one special little girl!
Happy Birthday!!!
Amazing how you always have the best way of describing things Matt.
Maddy is so blessed to have you, and you’re doing a damn fine job too.
Happy Birthay to a precious little girl…thank you for sharing her and your continuous memories with us. I feel privileged…truly, I do.
Happy 2nd b-day maddy
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Happy Birthday, Maddy.
xoxo
Happy Birthday, Maddie. You are one blessed little lady to have such a great Daddy who can express his thoughts in such a powerful way. Traveling mercies be upon you both.
How lovely for Maddy to have a father that understands how special she truly is. She is lucky that you realize right from the get go how important it is to have a close relationship with her.
Happy Birthday Maddie. And gratz, Dad, on a wonderful job done!
Happy 2nd birthday Maddie!!!
Happy birthday Maddy! You, without a doubt, have a daddy who loves you. Cherish him always!
P.S. – my kid turned 2 in France also! Although I don’t think she appreciated it sufficiently (we all went out for an overly formal lunch and it was hard for her to sit still) Joyeuse anniversaire!
My heart cracks open with every word you write. I have a 2 year old little boy who is the light of my life. I completely understand the love you feel for this little being. It’s a beautiful thing. Your grit and gusto to pick up the pieces of your life is something to marvel. Happy Birthday sweet girl and congrats to you Matt on a job well done these last two years. I can’t imagine how hard it’s been… Enjoy Paris and the memories you get to keep. Will be thinking of you tomorrow…
Happy Birthday Madeline! What a fun adventure for your 2nd birthday!
I just posted a blog this week with another letter to Johnny and now I read this in tears…everything you write is absolutely stunning. She is so very lucky to have you as her Daddy!
Happy Birthday Darling girl!
Happy Birthday, Maddy! And a very happy daddyversary to you, Matt. Thank you for continuing to share your lives.
Happy Birthday to your beautiful Madeline <3
Love it!
Happy birthday darling girl!
Such a beautiful post…Happy Birthday Maddy! Enjoy your trip to Paris and the wonderful memories you will make.
Happy Birthday Maddy!
Your gift has been your daddy… your life, his words have touched the lives, souls, hearts of many. Your life, your incredibly sad loss has impacted stranger/friends across the world.
Your mother would be proud, although not surprised, that your dad, and you his best girl have changed this world one photo, one tear, one word at a time. Be blessed little one!
Wow…that one has me bawling! Thanks, Matt.
Madeline, I hope that your birthday was as beautiful as you are! Wishing you many, many, MANY more!
Happy Birthday, Madeline. Have a wonderful day.
Happy Birthday Precious Girl!!!
Big Hugs to you!!!
XOXO!
Erin
Happy Birthday Madeline! You are one beautiful and lucky little girl!
Happy Birthday! She is totally beautiful and you are a great dad.
Congratulations Matt and Maddy! A father’s relationship with his daughter creates the template for her life regarding her future relationships with men. There is nothing better than to read about a father who loves and adores his daughter as much as you do. You are raising a daughter whose heart is whole and therefore she will always be adored by the loves in her life, as she should be. Congratulations on a wonderful 2 years and many more to come.
Happy Birthday Madeline!! I wish you only the best now and forever!
Happy Birthday Maddy!
Matt, I’m hoping you are feeling peace and love over the next couple of days. I’ll be thinking of you.
As usual you managed to write an amazing tribute to your little girl – you are very skilled in the art of writing tear jerkers!! Maddy is incredibly lucky to have such an amazing dad and to have all this written down for when she’s older. It will mean so much to her I’m sure.
Happy Birthday Maddy! Have a wonderful time in Paris and a great year being 2 – now the fun really starts!!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY SWEET GIRL!!!!!
Today, like every birthday you are gonna have, should be brilliant and wonderful! (Just like you)
I am not sure you’ll ever understand how many lives you affect everyday Matt… But, today, make the most of it!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MADELINE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Happy birthday sweet girl!!!
Reading this brought tears to my eyes. Amazing that it’s been 2 years already. And she’s experienced more in her short 2 years than many have in their entire lives. It’s so refreshing to see a father living for his daughter’s every happiness. I am truly honoured and blessed to be a part of this, in some small way. I continue to look forward to all your wonderful adventures together. *hugs, love and blessings to you both, always*
So perfect, Matt.
And happy, happy, happy birthday Madeline! Thank you for letting me watch you grow! I look forward to watching out for the wonderful person you will become!!
wow!! matt another beautiful post that made me cry. your blog is funny and also sad sometimes and here’s to more happy, funny, silly posts b/c the world has enough heavy sh*t.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MADDY!! much love to you and your daddy!!!mahalo!!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MADELINE!!!!
May the gifts of good health, happiness, and love be yours today and always sweet girl!!
And Daddy Matt, YOU, dear man, do such an awesome and amazing job of single-parenting and leaving a truly touching and heart-warming legacy for your daughter… KUDOS to you!!
Enjoy Paris together!!
Big hugs
You Rock !! Happy Birthday Maddy !!!!!!
Such beautiful words – happy birthday Maddie. Enjoy each day of this amazing life the two of you are building for each other, different from where you started and not where you expected to be but an amazing adventure together.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MADDY!!!!
Another beautiful post, Matt. She is a very lucky girl to have a father like you. No matter what anyone says, the two’s are AMAZING! If you thought the growth you have seen in her already was huge, just wait for the next year, her personality will EXPLODE and it will knock your socks off!
tears. Happy, happy birthday Maddy. Thanks for sharing your first two years with all of us.
This letter is amazing. She’ll appreciate it when she gets older. You are a great dad and that comes through on your posts. Happy Birthday Madeline.
you brought tears to my eyes! i love your writing..maddie is one blessed little girl to have such an awesome daddy! HaPpY BiRtHdAy to the cutest little girl I have never met!! hope you have many more!
much love and blessings from ga~ erin
Happy 2nd Belated Birthday Madeline! My little guy Chase is celebrating his 2nd birthday today. I am sorry that your Momma was taken from you so soon. We remember her always on March 25th, even though we never met her. Continue to enjoy all of the adventures that life (and Daddy) takes you on. You are truly a special little girl that is loved by so many people. We hope that you had a fun-filled birthday little girl!
happy b-day maddie!
Happy belated to Madeline!
Happy Birthday Maddy! Hope you enjoy your birthday in Paris. Wishing you many more adventures with your Daddy! D
Wow you totaly made me cry, I love your writing and the love you have for Madeline. I hope you have a wonderful time in France and happy 2nd birthday Madeline!!!
from a long time reader but first first time poster…
Happy Birthday to Maddy! You are doing a splendid job, Matt.
And as it is now the 25th, my heart is with you, hoping that you can find some peace and comfort through your family and friends. Even a stranger can see that Liz’s beauty and light continue to shine through the radiant daughter you brought into the world together.
Beautiful Maddie, you are such a lucky girl to have a dad who cares about you so deeply! Happy 2nd birthday to you!
Happy 2nd Birthday Madeline!
I knew when you tweeted that you had a new blog and the title, I would be in tears. And I am.
Beauiful post. Your little girl is lucky to have such a dedicated, compassionate and talented father. Happy Birthday Maddie.
Your writing is absolutely beautiful – something your ‘little’ girl will one day appreciate very much!!!!
The day of her birth is truly one that should be celebrated! What it represents to you and your friends/family is too deep to even define. The journey you (two) have taken over the past 2 years has truly inspired me to be a better parent/person…thank you.
Happy late Birthday Maddie!!!! Wishing you many blessings on your travels and every day inbetween!!!
Happy birthday, Maddie!!
Beautiful!
Happy Birthday Maddie may your life be filled with happiness and joy
Happy Birthday sweet Maddy!!!
I am a day late but I want to wish you, Maddy, a very happy belated birthday. I have been reading daddy’s blog since he started posting about your birth. Today, I am in shock that you are now two! To you, Matt, you are an amazing father. Have fun in Paris.
Happy Birthday Sweet Princess! Here’s to many, many more adventures with your really cool Daddio!
Such a beautiful, heartwarming post. Happy 2nd Birthday sweet Maddy! What a wonderful way to celebrate with your favorite guy by your side. I am thinking of all of you today on the 25th and hoping for peace and comfort for both of you. Liz definitely shines through and Maddy is looking more like her each day. Much love to both of you and I hope you enjoy the rest of your trip. Safe and happy travels!! XOXOXO
I know I’m a bit late on this, but
Happy 2nd Birthday, Maddie!!
Matt as usual you have written such a beautiful, heartfelt piece for your little girl! I’m sure as she gets older she will appreciate all these opportunities you have provided her and it certainly is shaping the person she is becoming. You are doing an amazing job! Wishing you many years of fun and adventures together!
A day late with the wishes but Happy Birthday Maddie! You are blessed with a daddy that loves you.
Dear Maddie’s dad,
Please do NOT attempt to cut her hair again–haha! My aunt would do that to me and I HATED IT! And also Happy Bday sweet Maddie
Kris in MN
Happy Birthday little girl…..
Beautiful post, Matt. Happy Birthday Maddy!
Happy 2nd Birthday Maddie!!
Matt, as always, what a beautiful post. I have tears in my eyes.
Much love to you both!
Sorry I am a day late! Happy Birthday!
Happy, happy Birthday, Maddy! You have an amazing father.
First time commenter, long time follower! I just had to comment today though. HAPPY BIRTHDAY MADELINE!!! (a day late). You are such an amazing fahter Matt and I hope that today you find peace. Surround yourself with Madeline’s love and know that Liz is so proud of you!
Happy Birthday Maddie. Beautiful post!!
Madeline, hope you had a great 2nd birthday! Matt, you are a wonderful father, thinking of you both today.
Happy 2nd Birthday sweet Maddy! I hope you are enjoying Paris! Know that your mommy is watching over you and loving you more then ever! Take care Logelin Family!
Happy Birthday!!!!
Happy birthday Maddy. 2 is a great age!
happy birthday maddy!!
hi matt, i always read your blog. and each entry brings tears to my eyes as how honest and open you write these.
i don’t know if ever you’ll get to read my comment since many are also posting a comment, but if ever you do, i hope you’d drop a line and let me know. 
madeline is such a lucky, change that, blessed child to have you as a father. 
God bless! and i wish you two all the happiness and love always. ♥
xo,
Debbie
Happy Happy Birthday Maddy!! You rock!
Happy birthday, Madeline! Matt, you’re doing a fantastic job!!!
Love the post! Sorry this is late but I hope Miss M had a wonderful 2nd birthday! I can’t believe she is 2 already! I am sure you can’t either Matt. Give that gorgeous little girl hugs and kisses for me!
Annnddd … grown man crying. Happy birthday!
HAPPY 2nd Birthday Maddy! Hope you two have a fun-filled, happy day!
Happy Birthday Maddy … I love watching you and your Daddy grow.
Happy Birthday Madeline!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The life you have lived in these short 2 years is beyond amazing
Happy Birthday sweet little Madeline!
What a beautiful post Matt.
And happy Birthday Maddy, sorry this is late.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY Madeline! You are such a beautiful little girl.
The last picture just got me at the end of this post–so powerful. What a beautiful birthday note for Madeline to cherish Matt. Take Care.
Happy Birthday Maddy!! Thinking of you two and sending lots of best wishes!
Happy Birthday sweet girl. May you have many more incredible memories.
I just love the picture of her on top of the Eiffle Tower. If you don’t mind my asking Matt, I’m heading back to Paris this summer and I’ve been asking anyone and everyone about hotels they’ve been to. Hotel Normandy looks nice, and close to a lot of touristy things I’d like to show my husband, since he’s never been. I’ve gone to their website and it’s malfunctioning. I was wondering if you minded telling me approx. how much it is to stay there per night. Since we’re going to be doing several things there, I haven’t a clue where to stay. All I know is that I’d like to be somewhat in close proximity to Gare du Nord so we can take the train back northbound when we’re done….
Thanks so much and enjoy! Such a beautiful city and many, many things to take in
Holy crap, Matt’s in a suit! What’s that make, maybe four, five times in the two years we’ve known him?
Happy Belated Birthday Miss Maddy.
Maddy, happy (belated) birthday, sweet girl. Never forget that you are loved.
Happy Birthday to sweet, sassy Maddy. What a lucky girl, to have such a great Daddy.
Happy Birthday Miss Madeline. It’s been so much fun watching you grow. Your a beauty and very blessed.
Happy Belated Birthday Maddy!
Happy Birthday Maddy! It is hard to believe you are already two. We have all been so lucky to see you bloom and grow over the past two years. I hope you and your Dad enjoy all Paris has to offer.
Happy birthday Maddy xxxxxx
Happy Birthday Maddy! What a sweet post this was. March babies are certainly the best of them all, I should know, being one myself
I’m sure Maddy had a wonderful birthday! She is a very lucky little girl with an amazing father. I know you make her happy everyday.
Simply beautiful Matt. Maddy is a very lucky girl to have you show her the world! And in doing so and sharing it with all of us you are teaching us all how to live and enjoy life more too. Happy 2nd Birthday Maddy! I hope you both feel all the love we are sending to you!
Happy Birthday Madeline! I hope you are having a blast in Paris! You are such an adorable, bright little girl and I am glad that your daddy has shared your life with us.
Happy Birthday Maddy! May this year bring you lots of laughter and exciting new adventures.
Enjoy Paris! Get your Daddy to read you the “Fancy Nancy” series by Jane O’Connel. This little girl likes to learn and use french words because they sound more fancy
You’ll probably like the books when you’re closer to three.
Happy Birthday, cute stuff!
Happy birthday, sweet girl. And Matt, thanks for sharing your story with us. You’re an inspiration, the both of you.
Happy Birthday Maddy! Have a wonderful trip!
This is one of the most beautiful things I have ever read. There is just something very special about a father talking to his daughter.
Happy Birthday Madeline
Happy Birthday Sweet Maddy!
Stunning
As usual, beautifully written, Matt.
Happy birthday to dear Maddy. I only wish her Mommy was here in the physical to help her celebrate.
Belated Birthday Wishes Maddy….wish you a wonderful life ahead
Kullu Sana Helluwa Ya Gamel!
You and Daddy look good (I’m tempted to ask who the “Stunt Daddy” was). And I’m happy there is someone else to take the photos.
Happy birthday, sweet Maddy.
I can’t imagine the bittersweet feelings this brings up for you, Matt. Your post is beautiful. You’re doing a great job.
Happy Birthday, Maddy-girl!
Very, very well said, Daddy. You are inspiring. This girl is loved.
Happy Birthday Maddie
That was beautiful, Matt. Happy birthday pretty girl!!!
crying again over here…happy birthday maddie!
Crying also, beautiful post! Waited anxiously for your thoughts. You are a great Dad. You have a beautiful daughter.
Hope you are enjoying your trip!
Happy Birthday darling Madeline.
Your so happy to be happy for M. I wish I could have your happiness, as so many years I have struggled to be really happy by myself with my daughter. The missing link still brings me down. Mind you there are many joyous times, but I get so upset with myself that my daughter doesn’t have the best “me” enough. Can’t wait to see how you address M birthday wish when she turns 13. It comes around the corner so fast you will not believe it. And enjoy the travel and freedom now with M, as once kindergarten begins, you are on their calendar, not yours, and that is a tough transition. Just preparing the path of what lies ahead…That is unless you home school her, but please don’t she needs to be with her friends all day, miss social butterfly that she is….
You are just amazing. She is always going to know how cherished and loved she is. Happy Belated Birthday Maddie
ooops…sorry..Maddy!
Happy belated birthday Madeline! You have an amazing daddy, treasure him forever!
Enjoy Paris!
Matthew, you clean up good.
I did not forget your birthday…I’ve just been SO darned busy! But, I definitely wanted to take a moment to say Happy Birthday, Sweet, Sweet Maddy! I hope it was wonderful and memorable for both of you. <3
Happy happy birthday to your sweet, clever little girl. You are an amazing father.
Happy Belated Birthday Maddie!!!
Matt,
What a beautiful Birthday message to your beautiful daughter. I also have a two year old (turned two in November) and I have written her a birthday letter on each of her birthdays and plan to to the same every year, God willing. Your message put mine to shame though, what a brilliant writer you are. I can’t wait for your book!
Happy Birthday Maddie
Wow, Paris for her 2nd birthday. She is lucky to have such an amazing dad. Great job dad!
Happy 2nd Birthday, Maddy! You are a wonderful, wonderful father, Matt.
What a beautiful letter to your daughter! I smile to think of her as an adult reading your letter and remembering the wonderful love and life you gave her.
I love you. I love Liz. I love Madeline. And I love that you met Brooke.
Happy belated birthday Maddy. Matt this post brought me to tears. Tears of sadness and tears of joy. Thank you so much for your beautiful words.
Happy birthday Madeline! Something tells me you’ll travel abroad to study BEFORE it’s time for HS! So wonderful!
Bonne fête!!!
your words made my day. happy birthday to one lucky little girl. you are an outstanding father
Happy Birthday Madeline!
…what a beautiful post!
what an incredible dad you are. Tears in my eyes
Am finding it unreal you are now two… Happy Birthday Madeline, and many more!
My condolences/congrats to you Matt. Such a strange place to sit I would think..
* ~ Beautiful ~ *
Happy Belated Birthday Maddie <3
gorgeous post Matt. I hope you had a wonderful time in Paris (you arrived at the right time to catch the beginning of spring’s blooming) and that Maddy had another awesome day.
You are an amazing Dad…an amazing person…and you are going to raise an amazing daughter.
Ahhh! So sweet.
beautiful. just beautiful.
Happy Birthday to Maddie.
Amazing, you. Amazing.
Sweet birthday magic to Maddy.
happy, sweet, beautiful day to you dear madeline….
Happy Belated Birthday Madeline for a friend in Lebanon.
What a wonderful way to wish Maddy a happy birthday..Beautifully written as well Matt!
I’m just going to re-write my last comment ’cause it was full of typos.
Happy Belated Birthday Madeline from a friend in Lebanon.
What a wonderful way to wish Maddy a happy birthday..Beautifully written as usual Matt!
Very touching post, Matt. Best to you and the journey ahead.
i cry every single time i read your blog. and i don’t mean that as a bad thing – i just picture my husband left alone with our little girl, wondering what to do, what i’d think of his pareting choices, how the hell to dress her, how to get her to sleep, drink, eat – all the tiny and huge things. i imagine how impossibly tough it must be for you, without having your dear partner to look to for the answers, and i see what an AMAZING job your are doing raising M. she is a beautiful, wonderful kid and it is a thrill to see you showing her the world and watching her grow into a little lady…
but i still cry for you guys. i still put myself in your shoes every single time i visit your blog. so i cry, and i cuddle my daughter close. and i thank the unknown powers that be for my good fortune in having my partner to lean on in bringing up my girl, who partially shares a name with yours (poppy madeline reese).
you are an incredible father. maddie is so lucky to have you. thanks for writing – among many others, i’ll be reading, sending warm thoughts, and waiting to see what comes next.
happy birthday, lovely madeline!
cheers!
This is so beautiful Matt. Happy belated birthday to your Madeline.
hey
happy, sweet, beautiful day to you dear madeline….
She Cute!!
Beautiful!
Happy Birthday Maddie may your life be filled with happiness and joy