Blue, Truly

There are some nights when I open my computer up to write, and the words pour out of my fingers as if they are coming from another place. And then there are other nights when I stare at the screen and think, “remember when I used to write about flashing my boobs at a nail salon?”

Man, I miss that. Well, not the flashing part.

I sit down many nights intending to tell a funny story. There are so many I haven’t told. Then, suddenly, I’ll realize what day it is. Today marks eight weeks since I last kissed my little girl. I feel like I should write something serious and profound.

But honestly, I’m tired of serious. And as much as I find comfort in all of the comments and emails I get from all of you, I want a day where I don’t hear “I’m sorry.” And today is the day for that.

As some of you know, I used to work for the professional baseball team that is based in Los Angeles (the one that is ACTUALLY in LA, not the one in Anaheim). When the team was in town, I worked late nights and weekends. And, of course it sucked to have to work 12 hour days when I had my family at home, but I liked my job and it came with cool perks.

My coworkers hated working on the weekends, but I actually didn’t mind. On the weekends, employees brought their family members to the games. I always brought Maddie. Without fail, she’d fall asleep on the way to the stadium, so I’d leave her in her car seat and carry her to my office on the club level. I would then carefully tuck her carrier under my desk, where she would remain undetected until she woke up.

under mommy's desk

When she was younger, she usually slept through the entire game. But as she grew older, she’d wake up, and staying in her carrier was NOT an option. She wanted out, she wanted to explore! Sometimes she’d crawl around on the floor of my office, or she’d sit on my lap while I made phone calls. Often, she’d find herself in the arms of one of my coworkers. They’d take her all around the stadium, introducing her to new people and showing her things from a different perspective. Every now and then I would catch a glimpse of her laughing at a new friend, or clapping with the crowd after a home run, and I’d think, “I am so lucky I have such a happy, friendly baby.”

One Saturday at the end of last season, Maddie was sleeping under my desk like she usually did before the game started. A large group of people walked by, including the legendary Tommy Lasorda. Tommy and Maddie had a special relationship. He visited her in the NICU, so he truly understood how far she’d come. He loved to hold her and tell everyone nearby, “When I first met her she was no bigger than my hand!” It always awed me that one of my childhood heroes knew who I was, so the fact that he knew and cared about my daughter made me shake my head in disbelief. But he really DID love Maddie. Just like everyone.

So it was no surprise when he stopped in front of me that night and boomed,

“HEATHER! Where is that beautiful baby?!”

“She’s actually taking a little nap right here next to me, Tommy.”

He came around to my side of the desk.

“MADELINE! There you are!”

Maddie’s eyes popped open. She looked at Tommy, looked at me….looked at Tommy…and then SHRIEKED louder than I had EVER heard her. Everyone went silent. I was mortified.

Tommy just laughed and said, “Sorry I woke you sweetheart! I’ll see you soon!” and then he gave her a kiss and walked away.

Unfortunately, that was the last time he saw her. Tommy has been in touch and he is so sad about Maddie. I never got a picture of them together. I always thought, “eh, I’ll get it next time.”

But I can picture them together in my mind. Tommy is making faces and funny noises, and Maddie is laughing. Only shrieks of joy.
Maddie sleeping on the job

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132 Comments »

  1. Sarah P says:

    It was on the tip of my tongue to say how cool for Maddie, but actually, how lucky for Tommy to have met and loved Maddie.
    Thanks for sharing this story of your beautiful little girl whose smile lights up places around the world.
    Sarah (Perth, Western Australia)

    Sarah P’s last blog post..A very long engagement.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 2:31 am

  2. Ben says:

    OK, so that was totally worth it. Awesome post. Would be better if was Willie Mays, but still awesome. I think you know my favorite part.

    Ben’s last blog post..Golden Boy Catches a Dinosaur

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 2:31 am

  3. Donna says:

    I can just imagine her big beautiful eyes darting between you & Tommy & I just have to laugh at the thought of it. I’m sure they were bigger than usual. I love to hear about your beautiful daughter :)

    Donna.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 2:35 am

  4. In Due Time says:

    Aw, that’s so sweet. I had to giggle at you getting mortified. Ha. Such a cute bond. ?

    In Due Time’s last blog post..It All Started With Rocks

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 2:39 am

  5. themaggers says:

    I can imagine Maddie’s shriek and I’m sure it was hilarious! Please share those funny Maddie stories we all could use a good chuckle!

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 2:40 am

  6. Kristin says:

    That is beautiful! Tommy Lasorda looks like the kinda guy kids would love, or actually anybody. He’s got that “grandpa” look to him I guess. He was VERY lucky to know Maddie. I only know her through your posts but she is a beautiful angel. That smile was infectious, and I can only imagine the laughs Tommy had when she shrieked. Never wake a sleeping angel!

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 2:47 am

  7. Jen says:

    what an awesome perk to bring your daughter to work and to have her share in your passion. From what I know you enjoyed your passion as well.
    Thanks for sharing this funny Maddie story!

    Jen’s last blog post..Flickr

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 2:53 am

  8. Al_Pal says:

    OMG that is such a great set of stories! What a joy that Maddie and Tommy got to know one another. How cool. Truly delightful, brings a big smile to my face. :D

    & YES, Anaheim is NOT LA! :P

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 2:58 am

  9. Kelly says:

    I’m imagining the shriek like in the video on her father’s lap in her little monkey onesie =) Only LOUDER!

    She is unimaginably beautiful. She would have been able to inspire ANYONE to love her

    Kelly’s last blog post..One is better than none, right?

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 2:58 am

  10. kristen says:

    great story, thank you for sharing….to know her is to love her!!!
    sending hugs today and every day.
    xxoo
    kristen
    (an orioles gal married to a red sox fanatic)

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 3:08 am

  11. Krissa says:

    It must be really something to work with a childhood idol. And how cool that he’s such a nice guy. When I was a kid I followed the *team from L.A.* and Steve Sax was my favorite player. I lived in the Midwest but watched every game on tv. Remembering Tommy on tv back then when he was coach, I can totally picture that day in your office. Too funny!

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 3:15 am

  12. Jennifer/Duchess says:

    What a cool connection for Maddie to have. Thank you for sharing that story.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 3:17 am

  13. amanda says:

    Why am I not surprised that Maddie rolled with a celebrity posse? Awesome story.

    xo from CT,
    Amanda

    amanda’s last blog post..my rock and roll life

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 3:35 am

  14. Bec says:

    I agree with Sarah :) All my love.

    Bec’s last blog post..Welcome new sponsor: I heart craft!

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 3:52 am

  15. Casey says:

    What a great story! You have done such an amazing job of sharing Maddie with the people in your life, and you keep on sharing. How big is your heart, woman! :)

    Thinking of you today, and always.

    Casey’s last blog post..Not another ice cream pun to start a post

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 3:56 am

  16. ali says:

    I really could never think of Tommy Lasorda without thinking about slimfast. heh. now I’ll think about Maddie shrieking. that’s WAY better.

    ali’s last blog post..UP, HELP, and FREEZE

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 4:01 am

  17. Kim says:

    I am a Cubs fan, but I still think it is monumentally cool that you a)worked for the team in LA; and b) that Maddie got to meet Tommy Lasorda! Awesome!

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 4:19 am

  18. lisa wood says:

    that’s the way….remembering her smiling and laughing….love that:) keep that picture close by great to hear you getting good memories/happy memories and picturing how she was.
    Love you guys xxxx
    Lisa

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 4:19 am

  19. Anna Marie Hinnant says:

    Sweet baby girl had EVERYONE wrapped around her little finger!

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 4:21 am

  20. Amanda says:

    Maggie and Lasorda are quite equal forces and come to think about it they are both are known to shriek from time to time. :)

    Heather I like the passion you always show for ALL your work- it shows and how TOTALLY cool to be able to have a special relationship with a childhood ‘idol’ (don’t know if that’s the right word or not)!!

    Thank you so very much for making me smile today!

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 4:25 am

  21. Kristen McD says:

    LOL! Whoops. How cute.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 4:28 am

  22. jessica says:

    It’s so great that you were able to make such amazing memories like this one with Maddie! That little girl was so lucky to have you as her Mother.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 4:39 am

  23. Amelia Sprout says:

    What a wonderful memory.

    Amelia Sprout’s last blog post..A whole bunch of questions.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 4:39 am

  24. Ann says:

    Thanks for sharing that lovely story! you made me remember how my husband used to bring my daughter by my work at lunch in her carseat and she would sleep for hours while I worked. Have a good day, Heather, thanks for making us all smile!

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 4:41 am

  25. catherine lucas says:

    You can write about anything you like Heather. Don’t put up faces for us. If you are joyful, share the joy, if you are sad, share the sadness if you can.
    I can up to point imagine that 300 sorry’s a day is a bit much…
    I often wonder if writing is helping you, I hope so. I hope that your group of groopies makes a difference.
    I have no idea who Lasorda is, as I am not at home around a baseball field. The only baseball experience I have is the Sandlot Kids… I will never understand though why they run and hit a sand pit in a corner, to then slide towards hmmm, what??? Where do they slide to? Europeans can be daft!
    Get out some more giggling movies about Maddie…

    catherine lucas’s last blog post..When in Bruges…

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 4:44 am

  26. wn says:

    Maddie really did Roll in Style! Awesome!

    If I brought my son into work it would be pure chaos…I’m quite sure that story wouldn’t turn out be something so cute and funny….more likely we’d see a story hit the 6 o’clock news involving mischief and mayhem and a government building spontaneously catching on fire!

    wn’s last blog post..so called chaos

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 4:46 am

  27. Kathryn says:

    You are a great writer. Thanks for sharing all these wonderful stories of Maddie with us. Maybe if they get told often enough and by enough people, she’ll star in her very own fairy tale one day. There once was a beautiful girl, with golden hair and the most beautiful eyes you have ever seen. Her name was Madeline and …

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 4:51 am

  28. Christine says:

    Ha, I love that she shrieked at him. Also, how cool for all of you. She was one amazing little girl.

    Christine’s last blog post..I don’t like Mondays

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 4:51 am

  29. Midwest Mommy says:

    I had to google him. As soon as I saw his face I knew who he was.

    Midwest Mommy’s last blog post..Totally Ticks Me Off Tuesday!

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 4:57 am

  30. Lindsay from Florida says:

    I LOVE your love for sports, Heather. I’m a rabid football fan myself (Boston College and the Atlanta Falcons). When I have kids someday, if Matt Ryan ever told me they were cute or wanted to take them around the football stadium, I think my life would be complete. :) What a great and fun memory of Maddie!!

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 12:32 pm

  31. Tami says:

    Aww, That brought tears to my eyes again. The people that knew her were so blessed. Thanks for shraing that with us. I miss watching her bight blue eyes light up. My thoughts and prayers are with you daily..
    hugs,

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 12:42 pm

  32. Leslie says:

    I LOVE IT!

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 12:49 pm

  33. Gillian says:

    I think I’d shriek if I woke up to him all up in my grill, too.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 1:08 pm

  34. Megan says:

    What a wondeful story. What a wonderful memory! I think that I would swoon if one of my Phillies heros met my daughter and called her by name!

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 1:15 pm

  35. Cindy Woodmansee says:

    Thank you Heather for sharing your life with us.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 1:23 pm

  36. Kate says:

    Great story, thanks for sharing it with us.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 1:28 pm

  37. Courtney says:

    That is such a nice memory! A good way to look up is through memories!
    Courtney in New York

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 1:37 pm

  38. Kathy says:

    I love this story! My husband has met Mr. Lasorda several times in his business, and I always love to hear about their meetings… what a generous man. Thanks so much for sharing this special Maddie moment.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 1:39 pm

  39. mmsteini says:

    Awesome story!

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 1:40 pm

  40. Rach says:

    I am NOT sorry you got to call Maddie your own – how’s that?

    Tommy Lasorda, huh? She was a little superstar!!!!!!!!!

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 1:58 pm

  41. Jamie says:

    I have personally always wanted to hug Tommy Lasorda. He seems like a nice huggy sort. Of course no surprise that he loved Maddie.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 2:00 pm

  42. Patty says:

    Beautiful, beautiful story! Thanks so much for sharing this memory, it is absolutely precious and so amazing that your little Maddie Moo was able to shine her star in Tommy’s world! What a precious gem, that Maddie!

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 2:05 pm

  43. Lisa in WI says:

    What a great story! And I like the new blog design, nice shade of purple…Maddie would be impressed. :)

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 2:06 pm

  44. Trish says:

    I never knew Maddie in real life, but I feel like I’ve gotten to know her through your writing. I just wanted to say Thank You for giving me a chance to “know” her, and what a blessing she was to so many people. She’ll live on through your stories and memories of her. She’s a beautiful soul.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 2:18 pm

  45. Michelle says:

    Hi Heather -

    Love the new design and color! Love the story and that you share your family with us.

    Thanks for sharing such a great memory!

    Hoping you have a better day than the one before.

    Michelle
    Herculaneum, MO

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 2:30 pm

  46. Mama Bub says:

    I haven’t commented because I haven’t wanted to say I’m Sorry AGAIN. Because it’s not enough.

    So I’ll say this.

    You, and everyone else who knew Maddie, were so lucky. It’s not enough, but for that time it was so, so much.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 2:36 pm

  47. Molly says:

    Yay Heather! Great post.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 2:38 pm

  48. jeannine says:

    i had no idea you used to work for *that* team…and side by side with Tommy. That’s pretty cool.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 2:44 pm

  49. Amazing Greis says:

    What a great story. It sounds like Tommy and Maddie had a little bond. Keep on telling the stories, I love to read them.

    Baseball is my passion (Go Astros!) this post made me SMILE!!!

    XOXO

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 2:51 pm

  50. AMomTwoBoys says:

    Tommy Lasorda’s (now defunct) restaurant in Marina del Rey is the first place I ever had Mozzarella Sticks. I’ll always love him for that.

    Love the design….it’s perfect.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 2:53 pm

  51. Kara says:

    Awesome story! But, I have to admit, I would probably shriek too if I woke up to Tommy Lassorda in my face. I’m just saying…

    Thank you for sharing the funny and happy moments too.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 2:54 pm

  52. gorillabuns says:

    I shriek when anyone wakes me up. period.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 2:54 pm

  53. Issa says:

    Now wait, there’s another baseball team besides the Dodgers? Who knew?
    :)

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 3:05 pm

  54. Alexandra says:

    Even Tommy LaSorda knew it, Maddie is absolutely delicious. Everyone who’d see her would fall in love. She is a heartbreaker….and you are the lucky one that got to kiss her cheeks.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 3:13 pm

  55. TJ says:

    Love the purple!!

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 3:18 pm

  56. CJ's mom says:

    Hilarious!!! Totally made me laugh out loud on the Bart train I’m on! Being a loyal Giants fan, I’ve never been a fan of Tommy Lasorda. (i think it’s against the rules) :0) But I am now. I’ll never think of him again and not think of this story. I love it!

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 3:18 pm

  57. Alison says:

    The Famous Madeline. Maddie, the Celebrity (sh)Moozer. She rolled with a posse, just as any self-respecting A-list toddler would.

    Hugs.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 3:25 pm

  58. Elaina says:

    Such a great story. Thanks for sharing it. I love Tommy Lasorda. He is a legend! That’s so awesome that you have those memories of him with your Maddie.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 3:26 pm

  59. Trisha says:

    Awesome story! What a mark Maddie left in this world. BTW, love the new look of the blog and of course the purple is the best.

    (((HUGS))) from Deltona, Fl

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 3:30 pm

  60. Miss Grace says:

    ::hug::

    Sweet girl. Sweet girls, both of you.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 3:33 pm

  61. Danny says:

    Fabulous story. Puts Tommy LaSorda in a whole new light for me. I also love that he visited Maddie in the NICU, that says a lot.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 3:39 pm

  62. avasmommy says:

    What an awesome story. I can’t wait to hear you tell more like this.

    LOVE the new blog design!!!

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 3:50 pm

  63. Katrina says:

    Tommy Lasorda, huh? Very cool. Such a funny story about Maddie shrieking like that. But when you think about it, wouldn’t most people react that way if they suddenly woke to Tommy Lasorta in their face yelling, “There you are!!!!”
    I know I would.

    Ahhhh….loved this post! Thanks for sharing:)

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 3:53 pm

  64. Adventures In Babywearing says:

    Oh, I agree with Sarah P’s comment completely…

    Steph

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 4:00 pm

  65. Colleen says:

    Great post and Tommy Lasorda?? WOW! The most exciting person I see during the day is the Fedex guy!!

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 4:02 pm

  66. amanda says:

    What a great story! Thank you for sharing!!!

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 4:05 pm

  67. Maria says:

    The site looks gorgeous.

    And thank you for the story.

    I want to kick Tuesdays in the balls for you.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 4:07 pm

  68. badassdadblog says:

    I’m sure I don’t speak only for myself when I say that I DO miss the flashing part. :)

    This is an awesome story. Tommy is a lucky man to count Maddie as his friend.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 4:09 pm

  69. Amy says:

    What a sweet story!

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 4:11 pm

  70. pillarr1 says:

    I can just picture Maddie under your desk!! It is great that you did so much with Maddie and showed her all of the wonderful things in life. I can just imagine what that shriek sounded like!! Ha Ha

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 4:16 pm

  71. Vicky says:

    too funny

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 4:26 pm

  72. Nanette says:

    Tommy is good peeps. Lovely story. :)

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 4:27 pm

  73. Hope says:

    Just by looking at her pictures it is no surprise to me that Tommy Lasorda fell in love with Maddie. She was just a bright ray of sunshine!

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 4:32 pm

  74. Kellee says:

    It is no suprise to me that yet another person fell in love with her. :)

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 4:35 pm

  75. MG @ MommyGeekology.com says:

    She certainly had quite a following! Celebrities, no less! That’s a great memory.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 4:49 pm

  76. Lindsey says:

    That was an awesome post Heather! I never had the honor of meeting Maddie. but I have poured over her pictures and as I was reading the post, I too could picture her with Tommy…..what a little love.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 5:02 pm

  77. Dana says:

    Holy Shit! How cool is that! Right on! Oh, and thanks for the amazing read… nicely done!

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 5:32 pm

  78. Elizabeth says:

    He-he, I shriek too if Tommy Lasorda woke me up!!!

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 5:56 pm

  79. Insta-mom says:

    I’m trying to hide my insane jealously that TOMMY LASORDA held your baby. How am I doing? Because oh.my.gosh.

    Love the redesign BTW.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 6:03 pm

  80. Emese says:

    WOW! I always knew she would be hangin w/ celebs one day…I am so glad to hear she really got to! Thanks for the smile

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 11:26 am

  81. Lisa says:

    Aww, what a cool story. Thanks for sharing it.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 11:31 am

  82. Julia says:

    The pictures you keep in your heart are better than any taken with a camera.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 11:38 am

  83. Noelle says:

    What a beautiful memory!
    Hugs :)

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 11:43 am

  84. Seashell in NC says:

    What an awesome story!

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 11:47 am

  85. Kristel says:

    What a great story, Heather, thanks for sharing! I have George Costanza-type images of Maddie under your desk with a pillow and little shelf with an alarm clock. Too funny! And how perfect… his nap was at the ball diamond too!
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GvaWC3t4_Jc

    And for the record, I flashed in Walmart. You are *so* much classier than me. But do tell… how does that happen, mid-manicure?!? ;)

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 11:54 am

  86. Lisa says:

    My friends and I are going to do the NICU visit here in AZ as soon as my mom gets it cleared with her hospital…will take pics and then send them. Where were you in AZ during spring training?

    You are such a vivid writer. I laugh at your funny stories. Marvel at both your husband’s and your strength and honesty. Hoping that I could be that strong. Whereas I know….that I will never ever be that funny. I try and try (it takes 30 minutes for joke at times or I’m sitting trying to figure out the punchline).

    So hold onto your laughter.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 12:07 pm

  87. Michele says:

    Hi – I’m happy for you that you have these awesome memories with Maddie to look back on and laugh at. Thank you for sharing your memories. If you want to be sad, then go for it – but I am glad you are able to share moments and stories such as this one too. I think your new blog design is lovely, and I think you are an incredible person. I continue to think of your family everyday, and I wish you peace.
    ~ Michele in Staten Island, NY

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 12:21 pm

  88. Deb says:

    LOVE the purple redesign!

    Great story!!

    Hugs your way…

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 12:26 pm

  89. Jennifer says:

    What a great story!! And love, love the new look!

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 12:58 pm

  90. Angie says:

    There is nothing like celebrating great memories. Thanks for sharing with us!

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 1:18 pm

  91. Lisa (Jonnysmommy) says:

    Poor kid. What a shock to wake up and see that face looking at her! Haaa!

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 1:35 pm

  92. Lillian says:

    sweet.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 1:59 pm

  93. anymommy says:

    I’d say she was a lucky girl, but she made her own luck. It’s an awesome memory and an adorable story.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 2:01 pm

  94. Summer says:

    What a cute story. Thanksfor continuing to share neat stories about Maddie-I love learning more about her. Ü

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 2:53 pm

  95. Colleen says:

    I experienced a loss. Afterwards, I was so blue and grief stricken and just was lost because my world had reordered itself and never sent me the memo! It was a struggle to keep on my stable face for the kids. I looked forward to private time where I could sob, that felt good. But grief just sucked. When I was grieving, I couldn’t feel the connection to what I had lost, it was like static. Finally, I decided to just look at the new world order, the way it was, and remembered all of the good times and memories that I had. When I could do that, I started to feel a connection again, the static quieted a bit. I still am a little lost, but allowing myself let go of the grief a little bit, makes me feel the connection and that makes me feel better. I really do believe that when we lose someone in this world, they go to a place right next door and are even closer to us than they were in life. It isn’t satisfying to us at all because we crave that sensual connection, but I do believe that they are with us.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 3:03 pm

  96. melanie says:

    Love the story! =D

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 3:15 pm

  97. Misty says:

    She really is such a doll! How fun that your coworkers all got to know her so well. Such a bright spirit is always such a blessing to know. Again, thanks for sharing her with all of us!

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 3:19 pm

  98. pgoodness says:

    Ok, that is SO awesome!!!

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 3:49 pm

  99. pbandjazz says:

    Luv the new design! I bet you met a lot of interesting people! What a fun job! And getting to take your baby with! LUV that! Tommy sounds like a good dude. He has good taste in babies! Thanks for sharing the story!

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 3:57 pm

  100. Becky says:

    I love it.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 4:08 pm

  101. JustAMom says:

    I love that you have such a great story about Tommy Lasorda. Living in LA and working in the entertainment biz, I’ve met a lot of celebs and more times than not, they are such a disappointment. It’s so nice to hear a happy story about a celeb. Though with Maddie, I’m prety sure even the most hardened or egotistical celeb would be won over by that smile.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 4:22 pm

  102. lindsay says:

    GO BLUE! :)

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 4:57 pm

  103. kelly says:

    1. What a beautful story, Heather! Maddie can be an angel to Tommy now!

    2. Congratulations on this new phase of your healing process. Maddie surely is smiling upon her wonderful mama!

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 5:10 pm

  104. Ana says:

    Hilarious! Great story of such an irresistible sweetie (Maddie that is!! – but Tommy sounds pretty sweet too!)

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 5:58 pm

  105. Jacki says:

    I follow your blog religiously, and have grown to love your little Maddie. What a wonderful story you shared today!! Some great memories!!
    Thank you for sharing Maddie with us!!

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 6:15 pm

  106. Deborah says:

    I’ve been on vacation for ten days now and have missed your posts, but thought of you often. What a funny, cute story you’ve shared with us!!!

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 6:27 pm

  107. denise says:

    Love the new design :)

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 7:19 pm

  108. Rachael says:

    What a beautiful memory! It made me smile.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 7:34 pm

  109. Trish says:

    Oh, silly man, waking a sleeping baby like that.

    Great story. Thanks for sharing it!

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 7:52 pm

  110. Lauren says:

    Love it. LOVE it.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 8:00 pm

  111. amy says:

    What a great memory. Tommy Lasorda?!

    It would seem Maddie had no problem making friends :)

    I am glad to hear you posting happy memories of your darling Maddie. Keep on keeping it real. We want to hear it all.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 9:02 pm

  112. Tracy Summers says:

    Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful stories of Maddie.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 9:23 pm

  113. Childwoman says:

    And dude, I LOVE the new look!

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 9:43 pm

  114. Beth says:

    Oh, I love this story… I can just picture Tommy and your adorable Maddie… beautiful.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 9:50 pm

  115. jeffra says:

    Pretty baby…I like what you’ve done to the site…you’ve been busy…your pumps must have given you energy…haha

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 10:06 pm

  116. Patty says:

    I just saw that you added those lovely pix of your beautiful angel! I also wanted to say that I am so…. Happy for you that you were able to spend that time at work with such a precious angel!!

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 10:08 pm

  117. Miss says:

    Well she played it cooler than I would have. I probably would have passed out. Tommy is the man! Who is easily swayed by big beautiful eyes.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 10:10 pm

  118. Elaina says:

    Love the pictures! Such a great smile.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 10:11 pm

  119. always home and uncool says:

    Good to know Tommy L. is a cool as he seems and that you’re still hanging in there. Keep on living, H.

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 10:14 pm

  120. Kelly says:

    Maddie is an absolute doll. I am not sure how I found your blog but I do remember it was a post about losing Maddie. I have suffered similar loss and empathize with you. I was on the Reeces Rainbow adoption site today and saw a little boy that reminded me of Maddie. He is listed under the other angels/boy page and his name is Randy. I just thought maybe you would be interested in seeing him and seeing a little glimpse of Maddie in him. I love your honest and open writing and I love hearing aboutr your little Maddie!

    [Reply]

    June 2nd, 2009 at 11:05 pm

  121. jana says:

    shrieks of joy –how lovely–thank you for that story.

    [Reply]

    June 3rd, 2009 at 12:02 am

  122. Al_Pal says:

    Love the photos. Beautiful!

    [Reply]

    June 3rd, 2009 at 12:52 am

  123. Therese says:

    Wonderful story and so beautiful photos!

    [Reply]

    June 3rd, 2009 at 4:50 am

  124. pgoodness says:

    Oh, the photos!! (did you add those later, because they didn’t show up on my first visit!) So. fracking. adorable.

    [Reply]

    June 3rd, 2009 at 5:18 am

  125. Just Jiff says:

    I LOVE this photo of Maddie! SO PRECIOUS!

    [Reply]

    June 3rd, 2009 at 8:46 am

  126. Jenny from Madison says:

    Hi Heather,

    You are a wonderful writer. I enjoy your stories & wonderful pictures of Madeline. You inspire me to be better about taking pictures of my kids & family & saving memories. Even though we are strangers, I think of you & your husband. Keep your chin up & know there are many, many people sending you strength. :O) Hope your Wednesday is a good one.

    Love, Jenny

    [Reply]

    June 3rd, 2009 at 8:50 am

  127. Debby Pucci says:

    What a beautiful memory, thank you for sharing.

    [Reply]

    June 3rd, 2009 at 12:58 pm

  128. Jodee says:

    This was very sweet … I love the picture of you holding her and her sleeping so peacefully…. She is beautiful…

    xoxoxox

    [Reply]

    June 3rd, 2009 at 9:06 pm

  129. Haley-O says:

    I just love that picture of her sleeping in your arms…. ((Hugs)) Keep sharing these memories. We love to hear them….

    [Reply]

    June 3rd, 2009 at 9:08 pm

  130. SusieO says:

    I LOVE this story. And would love more :-)

    [Reply]

    June 4th, 2009 at 11:34 am

  131. Amy says:

    I worked for a baseball team after college (sport mgmt degree) and Oh! How I loved going to work. Getting paid for going to a baseball game was awesome…meeting the people, getting to meet some guys I watched when I was growing up was awesome. Some people are better to just know from afar, but there were some players who were just as cool when you met them as you thought they were when you were 13!

    [Reply]

    June 5th, 2009 at 3:32 pm

  132. Tina says:

    A friendly baby is a true blessing.

    Both my girls would FREAK OUT if someone new even looked at them. I once had to ask a woman in a grocery store not to make eye contact with my Emma, she was that anti-social :(

    What a beautiful picture of you and Maddie. Loved the post, as usual :)

    [Reply]

    June 20th, 2009 at 9:32 pm

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