At the beginning of this year, Mike and I sat down and really talked about when we wanted, ideally, to give Madeline a sibling. Maddie was thriving, getting bigger and stronger every day, and we felt confident that her occasional health concerns would be minor or even a non-issue by the time her sibling arrived. We wanted them to be two years apart – enough of an age difference to not compete with each other, but close enough to be the best of friends. We started casually trying, excited by the possibility that each month might bring us closer to expanding our family.
Then April came, and instead of our family multiplying, we lost our little Maddie. We didn’t know what we had to live for.
And then we found out I was pregnant.
Our feelings are all over the place. Obviously, we are cautiously happy that there might be another baby in our family. We don’t take for granted how hard it is to conceive a baby and have a healthy pregnancy and birth. But it’s hard to be completely joyful when we know that Madeline won’t ever know her sibling. Our family will always be incomplete, and it’s terribly sad. Our greatest fear is that people will think we’re “better” or “over Maddie” because we’re hopefully having another baby. And that couldn’t be farther from the truth.
I have a perinatologist (Dr. Risky) that is seeing me weekly. My hematologist (Dr. Blood) is also following me closely. My general practitioner (Dr. Looove) is checking in constantly to make sure the other doctors are doing their jobs. I am on blood thinners to keep my clotting disorder under control, which have to be administered daily via an injection into my stomach. The whole thing is very high risk, but my doctors are watching me like hawks and checking for EVERYTHING. They’re watching my blood sugar and blood pressure, drawing lots of blood, and viewing the baby through weekly ultrasounds. It’s nuts.
Should everything go the way we hope, Maddie’s little brother or sister (Binky) will be arriving at the end of January/beginning of February.
We so appreciate all the love and support we’ve received from you all, and we hope it will continue throughout the course of the pregnancy. We can’t do this without you.
And please don’t forget about the non-profit we started in memory of Binky’s big sister, Friends of Maddie!
{ 928 comments… read them below or add one }
Wow, Heather. Wow.
Love you guys.
.-= Backpacking Dad´s last blog ..Southern California Road Trip: Part Two =-.
Heather– I am so happy for you guys. I know you must have many mixed emotions at this time- and I’m sure that will only continue. I think of you and Mike all the time and I’m sending good wishes your way for a HEALTHY pregnancy.
.-= Rachel´s last blog ..Lots O’ Pictures =-.
Couldn’t have said it better, myself!
Congrats. Sending so many sticky vibes your way. Can’t wait to hear more on your little Spohr-In-Progress (SIP)
Big hugs, and all the best.
.-= Kelly´s last blog ..Climbing into my new stroller =-.
The new baby will always have Maddie as a sister and she will be the angel that keeps your family whole. That’s such GREAT news!!!!!
I just came back here after not following for awhile. I kept crying at work while reading your blog and my new coworkers thought I might be crazy.
I just came back here tonight and I was so so so glad to read this. I am so happy for your entire family. That includes Maddie.
.-= molly´s last blog ..Show Us Your Life-Wedding Dress =-.
Oh my gosh…wow…a little miracle. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers every day, as I have for many months.
Big hugs and lots of love being sent your way!
.-= Noelle´s last blog ..A suburn. Seriously? =-.
How amazingly wonderful! Hugs of congratulations all around! Of course this is a scary time, and a difficult one, and confusing as great joy is tempered with great sadness. But it’s so wonderful! I am so happy for you. (Even though I’m not making much sense…)
.-= Kate in NZ´s last blog ..Itty Bit =-.
Wow. Amazing. I’m very happy for you and your Husband. I’m sure Maddie is grinning from ear to ear smiling at you and Mike.
.-= Pamela´s last blog ..It Gets Better… NOT really =-.
That is so wonderful! I’m sure Maddie is watching over him or her…what a lucky baby, to be born with an angel by it’s side!
.-= Megan´s last blog ..Mmm. Egg Pie. =-.
Congratulations.
Amazing how these little beings touch our lives.
.-= tiff´s last blog ..Homecoming. =-.
I don’t expect you to believe me, but I dreamt of this happening last night – specifically, of you calling me and telling me and me sitting and us talking for a long time about whether or not you were OK about it. And when I saw your twitter post just now, I knew what it would say.
I am filled with many of the emotions you describe above – but more than anything, I am so grateful that there is something in the future for you to look forward to in a positive – if not completely – way. I know that by the time Binky comes. Madeline will have been showing the Spohr ropes for a while, and there will be spunk and joy and the sweet smell of baby skin where it belongs, with you, once more.
With so much love…
K
Wow. Just wow.
I am so happy for you but at the same time I understand how bittersweet this must be for you. It IS possible to be happy for this new little miracle while at the same time grieving your breathtaking loss. So allow yourself that and take care. All my best.
Amy
first i will say i understand the whole concern that others might think you are all better. we went through the same thing when we got pg with our zoë 2 years after our stillborn twins. it was exciting but bittersweet all the same. i will be praying for y’all: for your health and Maddie’s baby brother’s or sister’s. i pray that in the midst of missing and mourning Maddie you will find and enjoy the joy of anticipating this new member of the family. hugs to you and love!
.-= laura´s last blog ..a Disney secret revealed! =-.
That’s amazing. I like to think Maddie does know Binky… I like to think she got to know her little sibling before sending Binky your way… I will add Binky’s well-being to list of prayers! Much love, and congratulations, and crazy amounts of hope to you all!
My congratulations to you both and I am wishing you a very safe, healthy pregnancy xx
.-= Karen (miscmum)´s last blog ..And she will pedal the stationary bike or else gain the kilos =-.
Congratulations to you and Mike. Your family is in my thoughts.
WOW! Such great news Heather!!!
.-= Krystal´s last blog ..Brain Dump =-.
this is a beautiful, yet bittersweet, thing.
i pray for your family every day.
i know i keep saying it, but i want you to know you’re my hero.
xoxo
.-= jess marie´s last blog ..rockstar_mama: keeping @mamaspohr, @newbornidentity, and maddie in my thoughts as always <3 =-.
Wow congrats our thoughts are with you
Congratulations, Heather! I sincerely wish that wonderful things continue to happen to you. Much love coming your family’s way
.-= Amy´s last blog ..I Heart Faces – Pets Challenge =-.
Truly this is a gift from above. I simply wish the best for you and your family. congrats!
I’d guessed this was the case (and no I’m not even slightly psychic) and I know the joy and sorrow this must bring for you. So whilst I’m doing a tiny dance around my study here in Perth, Western Australia for you both, I’m a bit teary that this baby’s beautiful big sister won’t be here in person to share the journey. Lots and lots of love to you. xxxx
.-= Seraphim´s last blog ..Weeks 3 and 4: Jog Blog =-.
Congratulations! I can only begin to imagine all the feelings you are going through. Maddie will always be a huge part of your family. Her future sibling(s) will know her well from videos and pictures. Take care of yourself and stay strong!
I hope that no one wishes you anything but love and support and blessings. You deserve to be happy and to have something to look forward to in your lives. You’ll never stop grieving for Maddie, I’m sure, but Maddie is watching over you and I’m sure is shedding her beautiful light on you and Mike,and the baby. You have a guardian angel that you will meet again someday. Maddie will always be a part of your family, and she will always live on through you, Mike and the memories she left us all with. I hope that when you see the smile of your new baby for the first time that you feel Maddie’ s love and support, and guidance. I am so happy for both of you, cherish this bittersweet moment forever.
.-= Kristin´s last blog ..Sometimes I Learn the Hard Way =-.
Heather I wish I could give you a hug. I got pregnant unplanned a year after I lost my 2. I knew I would feel guilty doing things with the baby while my first 2 were in urns in my living room. I told my babies that I loved them and that no one else could ever replace them. I told them the new baby would always know she has a big brother and sister. I asked them to interview babies in heaven and send us the one they think we need the most. Ellie looks exactly like her sister but has the heart and personality of her brother. It helps to think that they sent a little of themselves back to me. As cheesy as that might be…it is a great comfort.
Oh my goodness! How bittersweet for you, but mostly sweet I hope! Actually I have been hoping this would happen for you. Not to replace Madeline in any way….she is irreplaceable, that is a given, but to give you some hope and joy in your future and to share your love with another little one. I hope this is not all coming out wrong…but I think your heart will start to heal a little bit more when it is allowed to unconditionally love another again. Babies have a way of doing that, they just do.
I’ll be keeping you in my thoughts (well I already do) but even more so now to protect this little one to grow and stay healthy inside of you.
All the best wishes to you and I know Maddie must be tickled purple to know that she’s going to be a big sister.
.-= Kathryn´s last blog ..What do you want to be when you grow up? And hospital visit number two =-.
So happy for you, I hope with all my heart you have great pregnancy.
.-= ZDub´s last blog ..Don’t Cry For Me Argentina =-.
This is the best news ever to start my new week… I had wondered about it, if you ever were going to be ready for a second baby, but yes… You guys have so much love to give that this is the best thing you could happen. It will be confusing and scary, but hey, this baby will be wanted so much! Congrats, thousand times congrats…
.-= catherine lucas´s last blog ..Romantic city: Edinburgh =-.
A huge congratulations. Always thinking of you guys.
.-= Ben´s last blog ..She’s a Peach, She’s a Doll, She’s a Pal of Mine* =-.
So thrilled for you. Sending healthy baby vibes and healing ones too.
.-= Geri´s last blog ..Big Shot Writer: Life As Amazon Sales Rank #825,166. =-.
Congratulations. I think of you and Mike every day, and now whenever I think of you I’ll send up a prayer for the safe arrival of Binky.
Oh Heather! Congratulations!! Congratulations to Mike too and to Maddie! She may not be with you physically as you walk this precious and bittersweet time but I have no doubt that she is with you in spirit ever smiling & happy! I am excited to add your new addition to my prayers!! What a beautiful thing. I just shared the news with my Mom who has been following yours & Maddie’s story with me and she immediately said-okay so everyday at noon we’ll pray for them (or midnight since she is a pediatric nurse who works nights & has a chronically messed up sleep schedule). I cannot imagine the bountiful emotions you must be experiencing! Don’t forget that if ever you are weary or need a pickmeup or anything at all, you can lean on us! Congratulations again! Your newest addition is so blessed to be coming into such a wonderful home full of love and laughter and life and incredible parents and stories, pictures, & videos of the best big sister ever. I know baby to be will love Maddie & be just as proud of her & of you as we are. All my love.
Wow, fingers crossed and hoping for the best.
Congratulations.
.-= Melodee´s last blog ..Quinn Cummings answers my questions =-.
I’ve followed your blog for a while now, and was completely heartbroken for you when Maddie passed. I can’t tell you how excited I am for you about your pregnancy =)
.-= PunkRockChic´s last blog ..Where is my camera when I need it? =-.
You know, I had a feeling.
Congratulations
I’m so happy for you both. So, pregnancy wise, everything’s going okay?
.-= Bec´s last blog ..Downloadable colouring pages =-.
OMG!!!!!!!!!!
God bless you, and Mike and the new baby so much. I am sure Maddie is so happy up in heaven, too!
I teared up…
Dont know what to say more…other than..we are here…
This one is hand-picked by Maddie, I bet. Congratulations on your blessing, they do tend to come at the oddest of moments. I will continue to keep your family in my prayers!
Wow Dawn, I was *just* thinking the same thing as I was reading the comments. This baby is surely hand picked by Maddie.
.-= Karen´s last blog ..Purple Lupines =-.
This is exactly what I was thinking. Maddie had a little part in this. Congratulations to you and to Mike. I am sure that Maddie is thrilled.
.-= Colleen´s last blog ..Grace in Small Things – 60 =-.
Congratulations!! The Spohrs are multiplying! You and your husband have so much love to give, this was meant to happen. Your family is already in my prayers.
.-= Arturo´s last blog ..These shoes rule, these shoes suck. These shoes rule, these shoes SUCK =-.
Heather and Mike!!
Congratulations! You’ll all be in my prayers and I sincerely hope everything goes well.
<3
Dear Heather
I am so so so thrilled for you. Your words about Maddie have had me in tears on pretty much a daily basis (and today is no exception!), I would have loved to have known your beautiful smiling little angel – and it’s just so great that Maddie’s brother or sister will have such a positive role model to look up to through your stories, photos and films of darling Maddie.
Keeping all fingers, toes, legs and arms tightly crossed that baby remains safe and well! xx
.-= Kersty´s last undefined ..If you register your site for free at =-.
I am so happy for you guys. Boy this must have been even more emotionally taxing than we imagined…. And your little has hung in there! He or she will know Maddie – you will make sure of it! Congratulations!
For some reason, I was thinking of you and your family alot today and yesterday…even thinking of when the time would be right for you to have another child. when I read the blog title….I just knew! How wonderful, scary, sad and awesome for you! My prayers are with you always…
Cheryl
I wish you guys the best and i can’t wait to read more about Binky ;o) I know Maddie is watching over all three of you. I was thinking, if people ever ask you if you have any children, just tell them Madeline is playing with her great grandparents? I dunno, my mom used to say it…
.-= Antonia´s last blog ..Define 10 Years… =-.
I am sure this is a bittersweet time for your family. Just know that Maddie is watching over you and her new brother/sister. I will be praiying for you and your family.
Wow, congratulations! I think of you and Mike daily and hope of brighter days ahead. Maddie will NEVER be forgotten an I’m sure she will live on through her little brother or sister. Babies are true little miracles an I will continue to keep you in my thoughts through out the journey. I’m here if you need anything!
XOXO
.-= AmazingGreis´s last blog ..Supporting an AMAZING cause… =-.
You both are in my thoughts and prayers. I will be praying that your pregnancy will be uneventful. I can only imagine the mix of emotions you’re feeling right now. But hearing about Maddie’s sweet personality and watching the videos you’ve posted, I am certain she is delighted. I hope that you both will allow yourselves to feel whatever you must — whether it be the joy or the sorrow.
Congratulations, I wish you all the best.
Dear Heather and Mike,
Coincidentally I have a little girl who will be 2 years old in December, roughly a month after Maddie’s birthday. I bet they would have had a blast together.
You don’t know me. I loaded a blog I occasionally read a couple of months ago and saw a photo of a baby and the name Maddie. I was curious and followed all the links until I found your blog. It was two days after Maddie died. I am so very sorry for your loss and so very sad that I never got to know Maddie before she was gone. Through your posts I’ve learned that she was an incredible little girl. Congratulations on your pregnancy. I pray that you will deliver a beautiful, healthy baby in January/February. I’m due in February with my fourth, so I hope to see you there.
Many congratulations to you. You will be in my thoughts for continued healing and of course for a healthy pregnancy and sibling for Maddie.
Yippee! Congratulations to the Spohrs! This has topped my day!!!
Dear sweet Heather,
I am so delighted to read this wonderful news today, my heartfelt congratulations to you and Mike. Thank-you so much for sharing this very special news with your readers. I think of you and Mike, your families and of course your precious World Famous Maddie every, single day. I think of you all throughout my whole day and am always wondering how you especially are doing. I hold my daughter and always have you in my thoughts, sending positive thoughts and thoughts of love to you. The colour purple has taking on a new meaning for me and I see purple everywhere these days – and of course I automatically think of your precious Maddie. I shall now also think of your precious Maddie’s little brother or sister, Binky, every day too. I hope Binky continues to grow and thrive and your pregnancy continues to go well. I’m so pleased to read you have a team of doctors taking very good care of you. I’m so excited for you and Mike that you have this wonderful gift arriving. You and Mike are such wonderful parents and Binky is going to be such a special son or daughter for you. Your precious Maddie would be so proud to be sharing her wonderful parents. Please continue to look after yourself.
Please know that for what its worth you and Mike will always have the love and support of this stranger friend.
With love,
your stranger friend, Erica in Luxembourg
Congratulations to you & Mike. I can relate to many of your feelings about this second pregnancy. I am currently 30 weeks pregnant after losing Findlay, one of my twin boys, in February last year. I too am cautious but also trying to hold onto to some of the joy that comes with a new life growing. You will be in my thoughts.
.-= Rebecca´s last blog ..expecting the worst =-.
It’s okay to be heartbroken and overjoyed at the same time.
Since beginning this post and writing this comment, I’ve already sent a few prayers for you. I’m a complete stranger, and yet your, Mike’s and Maddie’s story has touched me so deeply.
You know how many people know your Madeline, who have never met her? The new baby will know her as well. And I’ve always felt that if there is a part of us that is separate from our bodies, it’s the part that is able to love. I would bet that Madeline already knows and loves this new baby.
Best wishes, and all my hopes for an easy pregnancy and a healthy baby.
Congratulations! I wish you the very best!!
.-= kymberli q.´s last blog ..I wanted "perfect" but I ended up getting "real"… =-.
There have been some things in a few of your posts that left me wondering…
This baby will never replace Maddie — there is no doubt about that — but it is a gift that will hopefully help you to move forward with your lives in a way you wouldn’t be able to do otherwise. A reason to keep going… even on those days when you’d rather not.
Congratulations! How truly wonderful.
.-= Sarah´s last blog ..V.busy =-.
Congratulations to you, Mike, Maddie and your extended family. I wish you nothing but the best – a simple pregnancy (as much as high risk pregnancies can be simple!), an easy delivery and a healthy, full term baby that will be a bit of the light back into your lives. Maddie is smiling upon you.
Congratulations!!!!!!!!!!
.-= andy´s last blog ..The animals have it! =-.
Wow, how amazingly wonderful!!
How could you ever be over Maddie? None of us ever will – because she lights up the world every day.
I wish for you a very uneventful pregnancy and hope that it helps you heal a bit – of course you will never stop missing or loving Maddie- but I am so happy that her new sibling will get to experience your great mama love too.
xo from CT,
Amanda
.-= amanda´s last blog ..HELL WEEK! =-.
How wonderful. ANd yet I’m sure scary. You’ll remain in our prayers
I’m all teary for you this morning. Congratulations!
.-= Cass´s last blog ..3,425 pictures to review and edit =-.
I don’t even know what to say, except to send happy wishes to you both.
So bittersweet, yet joyful too.
Gods timIng is so much better and so much more perfect than ours! Keeping you all in my prayers always.
Congratulations. What fabulous news.
Will pray for a healthy, safe pregnancy for you and a perfect sibling for Maddie in the new year.
Oh my god, Heather and Mike! I am so happy for you. I’m sending my best, best wishes to you, full force. I know that you will never be “over” Maddie (how could you ever be?) but I do hope that this will help you two, and your entire family, heal just a little bit. Congrats.
Heather and Mike, I am so happy to hear news of Maddie’s new sibling! Keeping you in our prayers for a healthy pregnancy. Please keep us posted on how you are doing!!
.-= Lynn from For Love or Funny´s last blog ..This is why I love summer =-.
Congrats. What great news to receive this Monday morning from you guys. You have all my warm wishes. Congrats, again!
.-= OHmommy´s last blog ..You won’t find me at Walmart =-.
Congratulations! I’m pleased for you… Yay!
.-= Rebecca (Ramblings by Reba)´s last blog ..I knew procrastinating has its benefits =-.
I want to Congrats because a new life is just that but I also want to give you **hugs** because Maddie will always be with you and of course watching over her younger brother or sister.
Kristen
Congratulations! You are the strongest person that I don’t really know.
Maddie and Binky are incredibly blessed to have you as their mom, and Mike as their dad too.
.-= Mary´s last blog ..Wordless uh Friday? – Dinnertime =-.
I wish we were near enough I could give you lots of real hugs. But, if you need an ear, ever, just let me know. And tell the docs if they don’t take good care of you, they’ll have the whole internet come down around their ears
I recently had new tattoo ink done on my shoulder. Cherry blossoms blowing in the wind. Eight flowers. Four for my lost babies, three for the babies I have and one for a future baby I would like to still have (this will have to be adoption, as my last pregnancy was so hard my docs won’t let me do it again).
Bittersweet, I know. But Maddie will be watching. I’m positive she is happy for you and will be keeping an eye on you all.
.-= Earth_Mommy´s last blog ..Weekly Winners =-.
I had a feeling you were pregnant. I am so happy for you and Mike.
I had a friend who lost her little girl a week before her 1st birthday. She didnt know at the time but soon found out she conceived just before losing her child. I always wanted to share this story with you but wasnt sure how…
Anyhow, she had to go through the grieving process while pregnant. It wasnt easy. Their family will always have a missing piece. But their little boy (and a girl followed a year later) are well aware of their big sister, who will never ever be forgotten
She has said that their life will never be the same. They will never fill that missing piece. They are forever changed. But, they have also found happiness again.
Sending love and well wishes your way. Stay strong for binky.
.-= jen´s last blog ..picture perfect. =-.
Thanks for sharing the news so we call all think happy (healthy) baby thoughts for the two of you. CONGRATULATIONS.
.-= Joe @ IrrationalDad´s last blog ..More Wordlessness v. Playground Fun =-.
How beautiful. How bittersweet. Congratulations, Heather. My best wishes to you for a smooth and healthy pregnancy. xoxo
.-= Metalia´s last blog ..This is why you should make it a point never to travel with me, ever. =-.
Oh Heather! I am speechless..how wonderful and yet how bittersweet. Please take care of yourself!! My fiancee and I speak of you, Mike, and Maddie daily. Please remember, you are never alone.
I’m very happy for you! Sending all my prayers your way. =)
.-= Chantelle @ Photo Mommy´s last blog ..I ? Faces ~ Week 28 =-.
Heather and Mike – what wonderful news. I know some of the feelings you must have right now, as I’m just a few weeks ahead of you in my second pregnancy, after the loss of my daughter at nearly 41 weeks in to my pregnancy last August. The joy is not the same this time. Fear is ever present. You and I both got very different, very harsh lessons on just how bad things can get. If you ever want to talk to someone going through pregnancy after the loss of a child, I am all ears and would be happy to hear from you.
I’ll be keeping the little one in my thoughts, wishing for a safe, uneventful and easy delivery early next year.
xoxo
.-= Sally´s last blog ..60 =-.
It is wonderful news mixed with sadness…so bittersweet. congratulations.
I found out i was pregnant less than a month after my sister died. What a strange time–mourning mixed with pregnancy. I had a tough time with all those different feelings. But I’ve always felt (hoped) that my baby was a gift from my sister, perhaps to help me get through the loss. Who knows for sure.
Best wishes for a safe and healthy pregnancy.
.-= Liz´s last blog ..A Girl and Her Dogs =-.
Love you guys. Love love love.
congratulations! i’m due at the end of january myself. i will now, of course, be thinking of you everyday in a new way, praying for the best pregnancy ever!
i, too, had hoped you and mike would have another. how could you not? so much love to give and one of the best ways to honor maddie’s memory…she will always be known, loved and missed. you have documented her life well.
i often thought, how long would it take to get to a place of deciding to have another baby without feeling like you’re replacing maddie? that question left me feeling sad for you, knowing it could take years and i didn’t want you to have to go through that…and now the hardest part of that decision has been resolved and while the timing is bittersweet, you have been spared that anguish and i couldn’t be happier for you. maddie is taking care of you and this baby will help you heal. blessings to your whole family.
I almost screamed with joy at this post. And, then, of course, almost cried reading your words. What an unimaginable mix of emotions, and how very, very, very strong you have been to be carrying this baby while grieving your first. Maddie IS this baby’s big sister, always. And Maddie, I am sure, would want nothing more than to see her family grow. I have come to love you and your family since April 7th, Heather and Mike, and my heart is just bursting with this news today.
So many wishes for a healthy baby come Jan/February!!!
Wow. Congratulations! Best wishes for a healthy, happy journey!
Fantastic! Another child can never replace, never ever ever, but you can repair!
Congratulations to you all! You are a great mama. Not for one second would I think you’re over your Maddie. Lots of hugs with love to you, Mike and your family. I’m wishing you the best everyday.
Well, there you go- something to live for. I’m overjoyed for you and your families.
And this child will grow up learning everyday about his/her amazing, inspiring and miraculous big sister. Sending you the best thoughts.
.-= Scary Mommy´s last blog ..I like free stuff and I cannot lie =-.
Oh, I just got goosebumps. I am so happy for you and Mike but at the same time I cried for you too. I really do believe that Maddie is looking out for you and will help protect you and her brother or sister. As silly as that might sound I believe she is with you every day and wants you to find some happiness. We all love you out here and I’ll be sending even more positive vibes your way! LOTS of LOVE & SUPPORT!!!
I have tears STREAMING down my face… I am thrilled that you will once again be able to hold your heart in your arms again.
And, of course, this baby won’t “Cure” you from something that unfortunately has no cure…I am sure this news is bittersweet for you guys.
Be well. Peace.
Meg…CT
And PS: Can’t imagine grieving a loss while pregnant…hormones are raging just being pregnant. Take care of yourself.
Oh my gosh Heather and Mike, I am still so sad for you but so happy now too. God bless you both and this new little one!
Congratulations! I believe Maddie sent you this gift – she is an incredibly awesome little angel. I will continue to keep all 4 of you in my prayers. Mary
Congratulations! You will be in my prayers for a healthy and uneventful pregnancy!
.-= Sarah´s last blog ..The countdown is officially on! =-.
Congratulations on this pregnancy, the little child coming soon! I know you will never be “over” losing Maddie, and she cannot be replaced. This baby is an individual, and I can’t wait to read all about him/her.
.-= Lora´s last blog ..First Ponytail! =-.
I am SO doing the “Happy Dance” for you & Mike. Binkie will know all about how loved Maddie is, what Maddie was like. Binkie will grow up loving the stories, just as well all do.
((HUGS)) & look after yourself & Binkie.
Yes.
.-= Ms. Moon´s last blog ..My Kitchen Door Toad (Please click the pictures to appreciate his full beauty.) =-.
I am sending some extra prayers your way!
.-= Neena´s last blog ..A Riddle Of Sorts =-.
I know it seems to be bittersweet, but i know that Maddie is sqeeling with glee alongside her angels. She can’t wait to be the guardian angel of her little brother or sister!
i do know someone who has gone through the same thing, so if you would like her contact information, i would be glad to give it to you. sometimes it helps to talk to someone who can truly know and understand your same fears and worries.
congratulations on your pregnancy.
OMG! I had no idea. CONGRATULATIONS!
This brings me such joy and sadness at the same time that I am left once again amazed by your strength. I’ll be praying for you, Mike, Maddie, and Binky. I’ll be praying you get to be pregnant and HUGE straight through the holidays. Much love to you guys, as always.
.-= Diane´s last blog ..Where do you feel it? =-.
Congrats. I am so happy to hear that you are getting top notch care and I know this must be hard. I do hope you get to enjoy it a little.
.-= Amelia Sprout´s last blog ..Owning my girly =-.
Oh how beautiful and bittersweet all at the same time. No one here at least expects that you will be “over” anything or that this somehow fixes anything. But I do hope for a lifetime of joy for you, Mike, Rigby and Binky, with a little help from Maddie – of course.
I am sooooooooo happy for you! I know up there in Heaven Maddie will always watch over her little brother/sister.
Congrats and best wishes to you and yours!
Oh, I’m so excited for you- scared of what you’re having to go through daily to monitor Binky, but confident you’ll do well. WOW, what stress, and anxiety. I pray that the payoff this coming winter, and as your pregnancy progresses, is all you hope and dream. Also, don’t for a minute think that Maddie won’t “know” Binky. She knows. She knows before you know! There is a similar instance with a family in MS who lost their baby in January, to Trisomy 18, and then found out she was pregnant. Their site is noahandjulieroberts.blogspot.com in case you want to read of another family with similar mixed emotions as you. Best of luck, I’ll be following and praying every step of the way for you four.
.-= Janeen´s last blog ..Tour de Graham Road, and Tons-o-parties =-.
that is the best news ever. Maddie is going to be the best big sister ever, looking down and guiding her most gorgeous sibling. Never ever would we think this amazing new baby is going to replace Maddie or that you have forgotten Maddie, but will be joining your family and making it complete. Can’t wait to hear the best news ever….that this sweet child looks like Maddie and has Maddie beautiful nature.
Love and Congratulations sent your way.
Lisa Wood
.-= Lisa Wood´s last blog ..Cute Kids =-.
First, congratulations to both of you. An impending birth is always a reason to smile.
We know that you will not be suddenly consoled, “cured”, miraculously over Maddie’s death. She was and is a huge part of your life, your history, and I’m praying that your pregnancy and birth goes very smoothly so that Maddie’s brother or sister can come to know her as we have – through your site, through this community.
.-= MommyGeek´s last blog ..GTT – What Turns Me On? =-.
I am SOOOOO happy for you! I’m sure that it will be very helpful to have another baby in the house. Maybe he/she will be able to make you smile once in a while when nothing else could.
CONGRATULATIONS!
I just know that Maddie found this little one and sent him to you knowing that he or she would be a perfect addition to your family.
Maddie might not have met this new one on earth, but I’d bet that she knows him or her more than you know.
.-= ClassyFabSarah´s last blog ..I Need You! to Make Decisions for Me =-.
Oh Wow. just WOW. I’m happy for you guys, and I know Maddie is thrilled for you too. My hope for you is for a healthy, uneventful pregnancy.
Congratulations and love from NC!
love, hugs, peace, strength, courage, joy…i wish you all of this and so very much more as you and mike embark on this journey. i truly believe that madeline is watching over you, and that in this way she will know her brother or sister…
heartfelt congrats to you both….
xx
kristen
Congratulations! While the pain of losing Maddie will never disappear, this little miracle may help to bring a little sunshine back into your lives. It’s amazing how the fates throw us a life preserver just when we think we’re drowning.
I wish you a healthy, complication-free pregnancy. With your dedicated team of doctors, I’m sure you’re in excellent hands.
.-= Lucy´s last blog ..The horizonal pro-star =-.
Congratulations to the two of you! What fabulous news! Will continue to wish you and your family all the best.
.-= knoxvillepixie´s last blog ..Progress =-.
I’m so happy for you both! Maddie will always be in your hearts and now God has given you a new miracle!
I’ve never commented before…just silently wept and prayed just as many other readers have over the past few months. I can’t help but smile as I think about Maddie helping make this happen…from the timing of you finding out to finding Dr Blood. This beautiful little girl is looking down and wants to see her parents smile and ‘live’ again. Congratulations to you both and I can’t wait to read along as this progresses!
This is so wonderful!
Nothing will ever replace Maddie. Honoring her memory by building your family. Your love for her will grow in numberous ways, surrounding your family and Binky!
Pam
.-= Pamela´s last blog ..Hard to believe… =-.
I believe that a soul chooses the parents that it will be born too and that this baby has chosen to help heal yours and Mike’s hearts. Of course, that baby may have had help a mischievious little soul when it chose you …
With that said, I hope that you are able to experience some of the wonders and joys of carrying a new life with a whole heart. Other than praying for a healthy baby, that is my prayer for you. Joy and health during your pregnancy.
Congratulations to your family.
Congratulations! I am sure nothing could ever take away the feelings you have about Maddie, and your loss. But what a gift to have something so positive to think about and plan for and be excited for. Best of luck!
.-= Marie´s last blog ..My new camera =-.
Congratulations on the announcement and thank you for sharing! We will keep you in our prayers for a safe and beautiful pregnancy and baby.
No, another baby will not take the pain away, but it will give you someone very special and uncritical to share Maddie’s small life with. Some one who will probably never tire of hearing about their big sister in heaven. Here is a gigantic virtual hug and I wish you and Mike and your families all the best. Please keep writing – it is beautiful!
Just like Maddie, this baby is an amazing miracle! I’m so excited for you! Nothing and no one will ever be able to come close to filling the void your first baby girl left.
I will be praying for you and the baby’s safety over the next coming months.
Heather, what a blessing this is and I’m ecstatic for you, Mike and the whole Spohr clan.
Take care of yourself!
.-= DesignHER Momma´s last blog ..Preparing for the Fruits of my Labor =-.
Oh my gosh, I am so thrilled for you!!! Congratulations. I’m sure that Maddie’s brother or sister will “know” her and love her. Thanks for sharing your news.
Wow. Not the news I was expecting to read today… but this has made my day! I can understand your feelings (joy and sorrow all at once). I pray that this baby will help you on your way to healing. And Maddie will know Binky… she’ll be there every step of the way with you on this amazing journey. I’ll pray for you every day! Sending much love and hugs from NJ.
Congratulations Heather! I know Maddie will be a HUGE part of her sibling’s life…always present, never forgotten.
Congratulations! I will be thinking and praying for you all.
i agree with Tammy on the her view
much congrats even its bittersweet for you all. Miss Maddie will never be forgotten even more so .
Maybe its Maddie way of letting you know its ok to smile again..
hugs!! to you all
Heather and Mike…
Oh My Goodness… I have chills so bad they hurt!!!! I am cathching tears running down my face and trying to explain to my 4 year old what I am crying about!
In all the heavens…NO ONE deserves to have a baby MORE than the two of you. I will pray everyday for a safe, healthy pregnancy, delivery and baby. Maddie is so proud of the both of you for shining through and creating a sibling for HER. This will always be her sibling. And this baby will always have a sister Maddie. Congrats to you both…you are very loved! And this newest little Spohr will be as loved as Maddie is! Shannon Kieta
What beautiful, bittersweet news! I’m delighted for you and Mike for this new life!
Children give us an incredible gift; they allow us to love more deeply and completely than we ever would have known possible. There’s a saying… that “love doesn’t divide, it multiplies”… Anyone with children, or anyone who knows and cares about you would never imagine that you are better or over the loss of Maddie. Maddie is a member of your family, she is your heart; she is irreplaceable. This new baby will be just as precious and equally irreplaceable. A new baby will never lessen your love for Maddie; that love will simply multiply.
(And I think you can count on this community to always remember and chrerish your beautiful Maddie too.)
.-= Karen´s last blog ..Purple Lupines =-.
Holy SH*T.
I just went through so many emotions, reading that. Joy! Sadness! Fear! Relief! Guilt at relief!
I can’t imagine what you must be feeling. I read the tag “Binky” first, and thought you must be telling a story about when Madeline had her binky. I am truly happy for you!
Heather, you and Mike will never be “over” Maddie. Ever.
Thank goodness.
I really love the logo on the Friends of Maddie site …. the hands surrounding her look like angels wings.
Sending you up love, mate. Always.
XOXOXXO
.-= eden´s last blog ..Each Day a New Beginning =-.
No one will ever be a replacement for Maddie… No one. But her little brother or sister will grow up knowing that they had an amazing sister. I’m sure your Maddie is already looking over her little brother or sister right now.
Congratulations to you both!
.-= b*babbler´s last blog ..A man, merely a man =-.
Wow! That is amazing! Maddie will always be a central part of your family and I know she is watching over her new baby sister/brother right now. Praying that all goes well for your pregnancy.
Heather and Mike… what wonderful news! This new baby will have an angel follwing him/her forever. Best of luck, congratulations, and endless prayers coming your way.
Oh, my! I’m all misty-eyed after reading this. This is SO wonderful to hear. I’m sorry you have to do those daily injections. I know this is going to be painfully bitter sweet, and I’m sure you’re going to feel scared all the time. I wish you the best and a healthy pregnancy. One day at a time…
Congratulations to you and your family
Be well,
xoxo, Eileen.
Congratulations!
Congratulations!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
So happy for you!!! I will be praying for you!
.-= Tina´s last blog ..Let’s Celebrate! =-.
Congratulations! I will be praying you to have a happy and healthy nine months. I know it will be so hard not being able to share this new little one with Maddie. But you do get to share Maddie with the baby and that will be wonderful. Hope for many happy posts about Binky’s progress.
Heather, you are so strong, it’s unbelievable to me. Congrats and please keep writing about this!
You are always on my mind. My sister lost Cassie,a full term stillborn baby girl, and you cannot compare that you had darling Maddie to love for so much longer, but she was still devasted. When she got pregnant with our Gaby girl –I felt like Gaby saved my life with a renewed breath. My sister, not so much, she felt so guilty yet for loving her when she couldn’t stop thinking of Cassie. I told her don’t worry…my mom and I would love Gaby so much that Gaby wouldn’t know her mom was working something out…and it took a couple of months, and a lot of prayer, but they are closer now than ever. And of course Gaby knows and loves her sister..and even went through a point in her life where she’d cry and say “I miss Cassidy”, which was darling, as she’d never even met her…but Gaby is 10 now, and the whole family still honors Cassidy. I think all of us here will love Maddie forever, without taking anything away from either of your children. God Bless your family. Kathy
Congrats to you, Mike, and most of all, big sister Maddie! Thoughts and love being sent your way.
.-= Julia´s last blog ..One week! =-.
What wonderful news. <3 Good luck and prayers and best wishes going out for an uneventful nine months.
.-= Jamie´s last blog ..What’s For Dinner-Week of July 19th =-.
OMG OMG OMG! I’m sitting here crying for you guys. Of course the whole thing is bittersweet and scary and a hundred other emotions. But can I say? I am so, so happy for y’all.
Also, is it weird if I tell you I’m pulling for a January 27th arrival? (That’s Catie’s birthday.)
Love y’all. So much.
.-= cindy w´s last blog ..mental photograph =-.
Wow, Heather, this post just completely took my breath away and brought tears to my eyes. Congratulations. I know it may be a bit bittersweet. “Binky” has quite the little guardian angel to watch out for him/her. I wish you all the best with this pregnancy, I’m so happy for you.
Lots of love and hugs.
.-= Lisa´s last blog ..Friends of Maddie =-.
Many, many, many congratulations. Your little Binky already has an angel watching over him/her.
what a blessing!!!!!
Yet again you bring tears to my eyes!
Many congratulations!
I am cautiously happy for you both… and can understand the mixed feelings… so overwhelming. We are here and I have no doubt that you will need us more rather than less as the new life in you grows. Prayers and wishes for a healthy pregnancy and new baby. MUCH love now and always!
.-= SusieO´s last blog ..Beware the Wild Jungle Yak =-.
I can’t even begin to tell you how very happy I am for you and Mike!! For your whole family.
Binky is one lucky little baby to have Madeline as a big sister. A big sister that will be with him / her all the time, anywhere they go. That’s a very special gift.
As bittersweet as this is, let nothing take away your happiness. You two deserve to be happy. I think Maddie agree.
Love you always!
.-= sam {temptingmama}´s last blog ..Why friends probably shouldn’t work together (Read: Shit, we really need an accountant) =-.
Heather and Mike..
Ive been a blog follower of yours for quite some time now and with this big news I just had to reply and say a big CONGRATULATIONS on the upcoming arrival of your second miracle. What a Blessing. I wish you all the best and please know that by having another baby you will NEVER be replacing your precious Maddie, but like you said, just giving her a brother or sister. God Bless!
Congratulations, what a blessing! I will be praying for a healthy pregnancy and healthy baby.
WOW! I have tears in my eyes. I have hope in my heart. I will keep you in my prayers every day. Much love and many hugs,
Tricia (irishsamom)xoxoxoxo ((((((HUG))))))
.-= Tricia (irishsamom)´s last blog ..Grieving =-.
I am so happy for you! Oh and btw THANK YOU for giving these doctors names I can remember. I could never keep it straight if I had to learn their real jobs!
Praying for Binky and you and Mike!
.-= Midwest Mommy´s last blog ..You learn something new each day… =-.
Heather,
I burst into tears as soon as I read this. First of all CONGRATS! Because this is amazing news. I am incredibly happy for you.
I am also heartbroken. I am sure you are a tornado of emotions.
Blinky will have Maddie, a perfect angel big sister looking over her forever.
.-= jenni williams´s last blog ..Not so Wordless Wednesday: Boo Boo, the Story =-.
Oh, I’m so HAPPY for you! I can only imagine the mixed feelings this must be bringing to you and Mike, in addition to all the other feelings you feel each and every day. I will be hoping and praying hard for you every single day. Any sane person knows that this does not mean you are “over” Maddie. You will never be “over” your daughter, the love of your life. What a wonderful, yet mixed, blessing this is.
.-= Deborah´s last blog ..New Etsy Listings =-.
OH MY GOSH! This is wonderful wonderful happy news. I will continue to pray for your heart and mind during this time. I’m sure Maddie is thrilled.
Steph
.-= Adventures In Babywearing´s last blog ..Softly, Mother =-.
Congrats! Prayers for you and Binky. May you find joy in this crazy time and may your pregnancy go well.
This is wonderful news, even as we all know that you will never be “over” Maddie. Wishing you a blessed and uneventful pregnancy.
.-= robyn´s last blog ..Because I’m Obsessed With This Song Lately… =-.
Oh my god, I’m crying! I’m so happy for you and crossing every appendage and praying and hoping for a healthy pregnancy, and of course a healthy baby.
You’ve already made it through the hardest thing possible. I have a good feeling for you, Mike, Binky, and big sister watching over all.
.-= Middle-Aged-Woman´s last blog ..Living With Teenagers Quiz =-.
Er I meant Binky, not Blinky trying to type while half awake and bawling doesnt work so well.
.-= jenni williams´s last blog ..Not so Wordless Wednesday: Boo Boo, the Story =-.
WOW! Such amazing news. Maddie will ALWAYS be a big sister and though they won’t be together physically, there is no question that there will be a bond there once Binky is introduced to his/her big sister. I’m so incredibly happy for both of you. Binky could not be getting a better mommy and daddy. I’m sure I speak for everyone when I say we are with you on this journey!
Congratulations!
Colleen
.-= Colleen´s last blog ..One of THOSE Kids =-.
Love you guys so much. Am so happy for you and this new baby.
.-= PrincessJenn´s last blog ..Still Alive =-.
I am so happy for you and Mike! I will keep you both in my prayers and “Binky” daily! Just think, Maddie may already know “Binky” and will be his/her guardian angel!!!
Blessings!
Mindy
.-= Mindy´s last blog ..I take it all back…. =-.
I am overjoyed for you both! I can really understand that this news must bring so many mixed emotions, joy and yet sadness, hope and regret. Your beautiful Maddie will never ever be forgotten. Sending you lots of love from across the sea in the UK.
Congratulations to you and Mike. I’m sitting here crying at my desk, they are a mixture of happy and sad tears, but I am thankful there are some happy tears mixed in there!
Jenni in Ohio
soooo many congratulations and hugs coming your way. no sibling will ever replace maddie, but you have enough love to give to another. so happy for you!
I am so excited for you and Mike! Mazel Tov to you both!
.-= Shash´s last blog ..How a CrazedMommy cleans her child’s room =-.
Oh my gosh! Congrats and much luck with Binky!! Binky baby will have the best angel on her shoulder ever.
much love lady!
.-= ali (adil320)´s last blog ..Follow Friday the Blog Edition Part 2 =-.
I am so so happy for you and your husband. I will keep your Binky in my prayers until she/he is safe in your arms!
.-= joyce´s last blog ..Because I should post something… =-.
my best wishes to you all. This is wonderful news.
What wonderful news! I suspected you might be pregnant. There were a few posts that made me wonder about it. I will be praying for a healthy arrival of Binky just as I pray for you, Mike, and Maddie every night.
Please know that all your “stranger” friends and friends “in real life” are all in this for the long haul. We will always be here for you.
Across the thousands of miles, I find myself checking in daily to see how you are doing.
(((HUGS))) from your friend in Florida
Congratulations! I know this is a bittersweet time, but I will be praying that you can both find peace and happiness in this new journey! Keep us posted… and remember to take care of yourself and the new baby!!
.-= Melissa´s last blog ..The Last Push =-.
Oh Heather… you’ve been blessed! Congratulations to you guys.
.-= Sugar Jones´s last blog ..ME? Talk About Work Life Balance? =-.
Congratulations! I know the new addition will love hearing stories about her amazing big sister. My prayers go out for a safe, healthy pregnancy!
Rachel
A devoted follower in Nashville
I lost my daughter when I was 6 months pregnant with my son, had a one yr old and a two yr old. The pregnancy helped me move forward at whatever pace I wanted. Some days were good – other’s -not so good. But I never forgot those cherished memories/moments of my daughter’s life and today, still incorporate them into all my children’s lives. My living children are now 22, 23, and 24.
Maddie made you realize how much we can love another and “the power of love”- You’ll carry her memory with you everywhere and in every detail of life.
Eath healthy – and often. Catch sleep whenver you can. Listen to your Dr’s, and find your center -it is there for you.
Such joyous yet bittersweet news. Congratulations to all, we will wait wit baited breath until Binky makes his/her arrival.
.-= wn´s last blog ..St. Andrews =-.
I told Marshall I thought you were! Back when you were having all your “lady bidness” exams months ago! And then when they identified the clot disorder…
I am so excited for you guys!
And heartbroken at the same time. I can’t even begin to imagine how hard this is.
I know you’ll never be “over” losing Maddie. We don’t expect you to; we don’t want you to. She’s beautiful, wonderful and amazing. She changed you, and she changed the world. We won’t forget.
.-= Bridget´s last blog ..Mouthwatering Monday: Peach Pie =-.
I can’t imagine how complicated all of your feelings must be about this, my heart goes out to you both.
At the same time – it is very exciting – another new little life for two wonderful parents to love….not a replacement, an addition! Sincere and heartfelt congratulations to you! Keeping you in my thoughts!
.-= Kate´s last blog ..Yum =-.
I can’t imagine the spectrum of emotions you go through on a daily basis…. I am so happy for you and at the same time sad that miss Maddie will never know Binky. Congratulations and I so look forward to hearing more!
.-= Connie´s last blog ..My next project! =-.
congratulations … i’m on the same road right now (expecting the newest little in early february) – but with obviously less needles at this point. that sounds rough … but very comforting to know that so many are helping you make sure that all goes smoothly.
and … i’m pretty sure that any baby entering that household of yours is going to KNOW maddie quite well. but it’s up to you to make sure it happens. and you will. i’m pretty sure of it.
.-= jen´s last blog ..i {heart} faces … pets (kinda) =-.
Congratulations Heather! So bittersweet, but a miracle nonetheless. Maddie is watching down and smiling.
.-= Whitney´s last blog ..quite fruity =-.
You deserve the joy Binky will bring. Wishing you all the best in your pregnancy.
.-= Emma´s last blog ..Good/bad/good =-.
I could not have received better news this morning. Congrats on your pregnancy. He or she will be a perfect additions to your already perfect family, and what luck to get his/hers very own guardian angel. Like several others have said, I, too suspected you were preggers, without having any evidence other than a feeling. Will be hoping and praying for you even more now. Love to all from Jenn in atlanta.
Wow. Life works in the most mysterious ways. And it’s in moments like these that I am in awe of life.
You’ve been through an experience that has plunged you into the deepest, darkest places, and at the same time, you’ve been blessed with something that will help bring you into the light again.
Obviously Maddie will never be forgotten, and you’ll never stop missing her. But I congratulate you on your pregnancy. It’s the greatest news that could come from you guys at this point. So happy.
Sending you good thoughts and prayers for a healthy, LONG, and uneventful pregnancy!
.-= Heather´s last blog ..Peach Sorbet =-.
Oh. My. God. CONGRATULATIONS to you two.
Anybody with a lick of sense will know better than to think you’re ‘over’ Maddie or ‘replacing’ her. And anyone who doesn’t realize that is too stupid to acknowledge.
.-= Kate´s last blog ..Pretend I’m wearing one of those old-timey green visors =-.
This baby will be such a beautiful blessing. I just know it!
.-= Maria Delgado´s last blog ..Does anyone still read this? =-.
Congratulations. I got pregnant one month after my oldest died. It was a great time of healing and grieving and excitement and apprehension and and and…
I hope to meet you at BlogHer so I can give you a hug in person.
.-= Kim´s last blog ..Smooshies! =-.
congratulations!
what a wonderful way to start my day! knowing that something incredible has happened to two people who couldn’t deserve it more!
mazel tov.
.-= melissa´s last blog ..But Pigs Aren’t Kosher, So I Don’t Have To Worry About The Swine Flu =-.
And now I’m all teary, AGAIN.
I CAN NOT WAIT to meet Binky in person, and to bring you an ice cold Guinness at the hospital.
Also, rest assured that I’ll take care of drinking for you for the next 6ish months.
Love you. Love Mike. Love Maddie. Love Binky.
xoxo
.-= AMomTwoBoys´s last blog ..Causes =-.
I could not be happier for you!! This is such wonderful news – here’s hoping for an easy pregnancy! And thank you for sharing!
.-= vhmprincess´s last blog ..Dick’s Sporting Goods =-.
so beautiful. congratulations. of course maddie will always be remembered.
out of death comes new life…
congratulations, Heather! Wishing you a safe pregnancy and lots of joy in your 2nd child. We won’t forget Maddie or the joy she brought you.
.-= Jenny from Mommin’ It Up!´s last blog ..FREE is the New Black! =-.
Congratulations! When we became pregnant the 2nd time, we were also mourning the loss of a child, although over a year had passed since we lost her. I totally relate to your emotions right now. Anxious, excited, worried, happy, queasy.
Even though Maddie won’t be here to enjoy her sibling and be a big sister, you will certainly keep her a part of your daily lives for Binky to grow up knowing he/she has a wonderful big sister.
.-= Heather @ Not a DIY Life´s last blog ..Change: It’s Difficult =-.
Congratulations Heather and Mike! I am hoping and praying for a healthy, uneventful pregnancy for you and then for a healthy, uneventful labor, although what an event that will be!
.-= Lisa´s last blog ..Random Thoughts- July Edition =-.
Wow. Congrats… and I hope the pregnancy is uneventful and as happy as can be for you!
.-= Jen´s last blog ..weekly winners, volume 18 =-.
Congratulations!
I am sure your emotions are bounding all over the place right now, going from one extreme to the other and back again. This is so exciting, so nerve-wracking, so bittersweet and beautiful… As always, you know that you have an entire internet community out here to listen as your thoughts swing back-and-forth, to listen and love you (“you” being plural, your entire family!) and try to support in whatever way possible!
.-= Z´s last blog ..my boys =-.
You will always be the mother of two (or more!). I’m so happy for you and Mike and will add your new little one to the prayer we say for you nightly.
I’m due at the end of January too
.-= marty´s last blog ..Welcome to the world, Rena Rose =-.
Congratulations! I like the thoughts that others have left saying perhaps this baby was handpicked by Maddie. The new baby is a miracle and a blessing. Congratulations again!
I’m happy for you. I know it’s sad at the same time, but you do need the joy that a child brings to your life, particularly now. It doesn’t mean that you miss or love Maddie any less, but I bet she is thrilled that you will have a little one to hold in your arms once more.
Best of luck, I will be praying that you have a full, safe pregnancy and that this new little one is born healthy and strong.
.-= Expat Mom´s last blog ..All About Poop (or, Not For the Squeamish) =-.
WOW! Congratulations! Ok now the tears are streaming. Maddie will never be forgotton, ever and I’m sure she’ll be watching over little Binky every step of the way.
I wish you a happy & healthy pregnancy. Love & Hugs to you and Mike.
WOW, I am so happy for you and Mike,
nobody will ever think that you are over Maddie.
Don’t even concern yourself with this thought.
Maddie for ever be in her parents mind and all of us
for that matter.
take good care of yourself and Congratulation.
Oh sweetheart, I’m so happy that the pregnancy is going well. I can’t imagine the emotions your feeling. Mourning the loss of one while you celebrate the other.
This baby will never ever be without love in it’s life. It truly is a blessing from above. And you guys are really due for a few!
And thanks for making me cry at work on a Monday, happy tears and Maddie tears!
Nobody or nothing will ever take the place of your beautiful Maddie, but know that I am sending you, Mike AND Maddie big congrats on this new baby. I am constantly praying for the 3 of you, and now for gorgeous beautiful Binky.
Don’t want to sound preachy or anything but there is a book by Elizabeth McCracken called An Exact Replica of a Figment of My Imagination, which tells the true story of her first child being stillborn, and the birth of her 2nd child, it’s a beautiful, sad story.
I pray for you especially, being a mom myself to 2 little ones, I can’t imagine, but it is wonderful that you are under such wonderful care, perinatologists were my best friends during my 2nd pregnancy.
Maddie is watching over you all and Binky, she’s truly Binky’s guardian angel.
Congratulations, what an amazing gift!
.-= Beth´s last blog ..Cotton Candy Cupcakes =-.
While Maddie may not know her sibling, I know this child of yours will come know Maddie, and the wonderful sister she would have been. Praying for you, Heather
Though Maddie won’t know her little bro/sis, I have no doubt that ya’ll will make Binky knows Maddie very well. Congratulations and fingers crossed that this pregnancy goes well
Heather and Mike (and Family!)
This is a fantastic way to start a week. Congratulations! My thoughts are with you guys – always.
Try to enjoy this as much as you can. Maddie is watching over all of you now.
Oh, I’m so happy for you guys!
Cute~Ella
.-= Cute~Ella´s last blog ..Survey Says! =-.
Congratulations! Keeping your family in my prayers, as always.
.-= Jen L.´s last blog ..In Which We Clean Out The Fridge…Again =-.
My step-sister lost her daughter, Madison,when she was just 11 months old and when they ended up pregnant not long after Madison’s death, she worried what people would say. None of that mattered once Kaitlyn was born. She has been an immense blessing to my step-sister and her husband. She will never replace our Maddie, but she helped our family get through some very tough times.
.-= Momo Fali´s last blog ..Getting to Know Me: Bag o’ Meds Edition =-.
omg. I’m tearing up! That news just absolutely thrills me.
Hope I can meet you at BlogHer!
Michelle
http://www.everydaycelebrating.com
Heather and Mike, I was very happy to read your news. I know it’s bitter-sweet, but I hope in time it will be much more sweet than biter. I’m sure Maddie is happy for you, too. I’m glad you are in such good medical care and very much hope for a healthy and uneventful pregnancy and birth for you.
Praying for you now more than ever. May God give your doctors wisdom, and may that baby stay in there for a good long time.
Congratulations!
.-= Tara @ Feels like home´s last blog ..Watergate Salad =-.
Congragulations! You are in our prayers and thoughts!
.-= Madge´s last blog ..Vacation recap. OK I’m ranting =-.
Congratulations to your family! I will continue to keep you all in my prayers!
.-= Allison´s last blog ..Try not to laugh… =-.
Heather,
OB/Gyn is my bag. Remember that this pregnancy does NOT have to mirror your previous pregnancy. Plus, now you have a little angel watching over you and her sibling.
One day at a time…
Congratulations to two people who truly deserve the honor of being parents. I have never written before, only read and shared your emotions, but I am grateful that two people who were so appreciative of being parents and what it means should get another opportunity. You will continue to be in my thoughts.
What exciting and amazing news! I’m sure Maddie is smiling now that the blogging world has news of her sibling!
.-= Jen´s last blog ..It’s a girl! =-.
Oh, I’m so happy to be sharing HAPPY tears with you! Congratulations! I am SO happy for you!!! Blessings.
Congratulations! What happy news. I’m sending good thoughts and prayers for an easy pregnancy and delivery and for a wonderful new addition to the Spohr family.
So Happy For You! Congratulations and best wishes.
.-= cindyfey´s last blog ..Cool New Finds =-.
I’m overjoyed both about Friends of Maddie and your news of little Binky! I can’t imagine walking your journey, but I’m so grateful you continue to share it with us. My prayers and good thoughts are with you always.
.-= Kelley Land´s last blog ..Why (part 1) =-.
I think that rushing sound you’re hearing right now is the entire Internet tripping over themselves to give you and Mike a hug.
You two will be in my prayers. Congrats.
.-= Aisha´s last blog ..Do the loopy dance for me =-.
I’m so happy for you both but I know the conflicting feelings you must be going thru. I think Maddie sent this sibling to you and will watching over you all the entire time! I’m also on blood thinners (Heparin) for my pregnancy right now and I’m going thru all the high risk monitoring that you are so I know how that is! I’m also due at the end of January
Congrat’s again, I couldn’t be happier for you, Mike and Rigby!!! You’re an amazing person and deserve all the happiness in the world.
Congratulations…and please continue to give us updates! I am so happy for you guys and will keep you in my thoughts every day with the hope that this works out. I cannot think of any couple more deserving of parenthood.
Many congratulations and good wishes for you guys. This will be a well loved baby.
.-= Chicky Chicky Baby´s last blog ..The search for the perfect pair of jeans. Alternate title: The grass is always greener on someone else’s thighs. =-.
Congratulations, Heather. I can’t imagine the spectrum of emotions you’re experiencing now. Binky will be absolutely blessed with wonderful parents and a beautiful big sister looking after her.
Although I think of your family daily now, I’ll be thinking of you even more often–I’m due to deliver our baby at the same time and will think of you with all of the big and small pregnancy milestones.
Keeping you in my thoughts for a healthy Binky and some healing for you and Mike,
Molly
Amazing – congrats. Take care of you…..
Thank you for sharing this wonderful news. I am elated for the two of you, and glad to read that you’ve got all the docs in place, etc. In addition to my prayers for your peace (is that even possible?) — and for some measure of happiness in each one of your days, I will add prayers for this new little one. I can only imagine that if he or she is 1/1000th as sweet as your Maddie, you will be very very blessed.
What amazing news! Congrats to the whole family.
.-= Lindsey´s last blog ..I in my kerchief and Dave in his sink…. =-.
Wow – congratulations and lots of happy, healthy pregnancy vibes!
.-= Dawn @ Coming to a Nursery Near You´s last blog ..Will you stay or will you go? =-.
I am so happy for you! As I read your blog a huge lump developed in my throat with excitement and anticipation. I know how anxious you must feel, and will be praying for a healthy pregnancy all the way through. Congratulations!!
Keeping you in our prayers
Congratulations on your wonderful news. Sending you lots of good thoughts!
.-= Susan D.´s last blog ..Operation Sippy Cup, Day One =-.
Oh, Heather, I’m so thrilled for you, Mike, and your families. I can’t even imagine the rollercoaster of feelings you’re experiencing. You and Mike are WONDERFUL parents with so much love to give and Binky will be born with a beautiful guardian angel over his/her little shoulder. You know, as I was reading the comments to your post this morning, I couldn’t help but think–if you could “see” all of the people who care about you and support you in real life and over the internet, you and Mike would be like the guy from the Verizon commercials.
We’d be following you two everywhere!
So, congratulations, this is truly wonderful news and I can’t wait to hear about your new journey. I’m sure Maddie is smiling down on you both.
Congratulations and I’m praying that all will go well for you…you SO deserve it! I pray for your family on my way to work every morning, asking God to somehow give you peace.
God Bless you all!
.-= Dawn´s last blog ..Waiting till the last minute: all about the Room 704 Party. =-.
Congratulations! I know it’s emotionally difficult, but I hope that this pregnancy goes quickly and smoothly and that you get to savor it some. Or something mushy that means that. I’m not good at this.
Congratulations, again.
I have been reading your blog for a long time but this is my first posting …Congratulations!!! Wishing you a Happy…Healthy and Uneventful pregnancy !!
Congrats!!!! What a miracle. I truely believe that Maddy had a hand in that. I am sure she is watching over you and her little brother and sister to make sure you both are safe.
Congrats Heather, we were thinking about you yesterday and having our toes painted purple. I have nothing profound to say, but I wanted to pipe in. You’re going to get so many hugs this weekend.
.-= RookieMom Heather´s last blog ..Links for the weekend =-.
Congratulations! Take care of yourself and Binky.
Congratulations to you both…..Here’s wishing for an uneventful, average pregnancy!
I’ve never been in your shoes, but I get it. I get that you’re probably thrilled, scared, nervous, terrified, happy, sad, angry, etc. Hopefully, you’ll be able to see through the fear and sadness and find some of the joy in this pregnancy. My heart is with you.
Hi Heather and Mike,
I have been reading your blog for some time and even though your heart aches for Maddie, just think that Binky was chosen for you by Maddie and they both already know each other. My prayers are with you that this pregnancy will go great.
Omg. Shocked to read this, and totally, totally happy for you. I can’t even imagine your feelings, and I know nothing will ever make you “better” or “over Maddie”, ever. But I am glad that you guys have something to hold on to, and maybe at least take you out of your deep, dark place. I will pray so hard for everything to be okay, that the baby will be born healthy and full term. I’m so glad that you discovered your clotting disorder and I can’t wait for you to meet Binky. Maddie will know her sibling.
Congratulations to you both! Wonderful.
Hugs, love, cheers, and sympathy-exhaustion beaming out at you from our family.
Be well!
.-= Gillian´s last blog ..This Slogan Could Also Incorporate My Self Since College =-.
Congratulations. You will be in our prayers as this baby grows and as you continue to grieve over Maddie.
Heather – here’s hoping no one ever ever says you’re “over maddie” or “moving on” by bringing another child into your family. If they do, (even though Id ont know you) I will personally come and smack them for you.
I suspect that Maddie had a part of this step in your lives. I will be thinking of you and praying for a smooth pregnancy.
Of course, no one could ever replace Maddie. Ever. The people who love you will know this and will continue to be gentle with you and try to help you grieve.
Even though she’s irreplaceable, I hope that as this new life grows, your heart will find a new way of healing.
And I hope your second child will have a smile that lights up the darkness, just like your first child had.
Congratulations!
.-= Amy´s last blog ..Comprehensive BlogHer Packing List =-.
Great new. Bittersweet for you, I’m sure, but great news. Every baby is a blessing.
.-= Megan´s last blog ..Pray… =-.
I’m so happy for you both!
There are no words to describe my happiness for you, even though my heart is still saddened by Maddie’s passing.
Reading this post just makes me sob; tears of joy and the other kind as well.
Congratulations.
And also, my prayers are still with you. Always.
.-= Dana´s last blog ..Twenty-Seven Weeks: Thinking About Labor & Delivery =-.
Love to you! Much love.
.-= Miss Grace´s last blog ..Sunday Driving =-.
Incredible! Congrats!
I couldn’t think of better news to wake up to.
I can’t imagine the bittersweet joy of this for your family. Sending you good thoughts for an uneventful pregnancy.
.-= Michelle Smiles´s last blog ..Salsa for dummies =-.
I think Maddie knows Binky. I think she’ll be watching over Binky until it’s time to pass Binky on into your and Mike’s arms. Binky will know all about the wonderful big sister Maddie. Best wishes and lots of prayers as you travel on this journey. Again I offer all the love and support I can send your way.
Oh, wow. Awesome.
Congratulations you guys. Praying for you. xoxo
.-= Angella´s last blog ..World On Fire =-.
Congratulations! I can understand how bittersweet your emotions must be right, but what an amazing gift. My thoughts and prayers go out to you both.
.-= NYCity Mama´s last blog ..Rockefeller Center, NY =-.
Having followed you every day since learning of precious Maddie’s passing, I am so very happy for you and Mike. This baby, who is such a blessing, will never take the place of Maddie. but he or she will be born into a family so full of love it is tangible. I wish you nothing but the very best for the pregnancy. I am cheering for you here in Ottawa!
Wishing you a healthy pregnancy! Congratulations on the wonderful news. Stay positive. I believe that Maddie will pick the perfect baby for you and send him or her to you as a special gift.
Don’t feel guilty for being unable to wildly celebrate this exciting news….we, your faithful readers, have got that covered.
Maddie is the something you can’t live without, and Binky is the something to live for. What an amazing gift. In the coming weeks, as you begin feel that precious baby I pray that your heart would be awakened with a new sense of hope…something, I imagine, you haven’t felt for some time.
God bless you.
“Maddie is the something you can’t live without, and Binky is the something to live for. ”
Wonderfully put…this is what I was thinking and just couldn’t figure out how to say it. I love that sentiment.
That is great news. Best of luck to all three of you.
.-= always home and uncool´s last blog ..And That’s The Way It Is =-.
My heart dropped to my stomach as I started reading your post, predicting what the announcement will be. Congratulations! I wish you a safe pregnancy and will continue to check daily to see how you are progressing. I can understand the conflicting emotions you may be feeling. I’m sure Maddie will be watching over your new baby as she watches over you and Mike.
I am praying for your family. This new baby will never replace Maddie. But hopefully he/she will bring some joy to your hearts. Much love and prayers are with you! Congrats on your little blessing. And my daughter (who is 3) loves to look at the pics of Maddie on here and she says “Mommy, she is beautiful!”
.-= Theresa´s last blog ..Lucas Scott =-.
What an amazing gift- congratulations to you and Mike! I cannot even fathom the mixed emotions you both must be having now, but this child is such a blessing. S/he will never, ever replace your Maddie but hopefully s/he will bring some joy back into your world.
I hope your pregnancy and birth is completely uneventful- praying for you all!
CONGRATS!!! you will all be in my thoughts and prayers!
heather- i’m reading this post over and over and over again, tweeting meghan about your glorious news, and the only thing that keeps popping in my head is maddie saying, “WOW.”
i wish you health and “WOW”ness.
xoxo!
.-= nic @mybottlesup´s last blog ..from 32,000 feet =-.
ok, I’m a stranger in Atlanta who in inexplicably crying after reading your post. I’m also pregnant, due on Jan 24, and I swear have had a hard time being excited about this pregnancy partly b/c I have been mourning for your family. I will continue to mourn for Maddie, but all of a sudden I also feel the biggest rush of love and gratitude for my pregnancy and yours. I hope you are able to do nothing but take care of yourself, remember your little girl, and take some comfort knowing that Maddie will live on through her unborn sibling/s. In the meantime, it gives this stranger much comfort to know that you will have a baby–YOUR baby–in your arms again soon. And I can’t imagine anyone assuming that the next baby will EVER replace Maddie, or make that ache disappear.
Oh, wow. WOW.
Congratulations, guys. Much love your way.
.-= maggie, dammit´s last blog ..I’ve been to Glen Rock, Black Rock, Little Rock, Oskaloosa, Tennessee, Hennessey, Chicopee, Spirit Lake, Grand Lake, Devils Lake, Crater Lake, for Pete’s sake. =-.
Oh, I am crying. Congratulations! I am so, so happy for you and Mike. Wishing you the best on this journey.
(And as for my personal beliefs? Maddie’s getting to know her little brother or sister right now as he or she waits to be born. That’s just how it works in my mind.)
xoxo
.-= bessie.viola´s last blog ..dank-ooo, mummy =-.
I am so happy for you. Congratultions.
Congratulations to you both! I am so happy for you, and sad for you at the same time. You are both amazing people who deserve nothing but happiness and I hope this new baby will help you find that happiness again.
Much love to you, and prayers that everything goes well with this pregnancy. *hugs*
.-= Nickie´s last blog ..Never say goodbye… =-.
Wow, I am really tearing up. This is wonderful news, congratulations and best of wishes. I will be here to offer my support.
I know I am a total stranger, but I still wanted to say congratulations on this amazing news. Anyone who is truly a parent will understand that this in no way makes you “all better” or that you got pregnant to “replace” Maddie. But the two of you have too much love to give NOT to have more children, and it is a blessing to the world that you have decided to have more. This baby will know Maddie in their own way, and she will have a profound influence on their life.
.-= Lora´s last blog ..Because, you know, I had nothing better to do. =-.
Congratulations! Nobody will ever replace Maddie, but hopefully Binky will help to heal your hearts just a little.
.-= Karly´s last blog ..Things That You Should Know =-.
OMG…. Congratulations to you and Mike. I am so happy to hear of this good news for the two of you. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers( as i have done since reading your blogs)
Wow. Just. Wow.
Congratulations Heather and Mike!
.-= Just Shireen´s last blog ..The One Where I Ignore My Blog Because I’m Boring =-.
Wow! Goosebumps!
Sending you much love and well wishes for a healthy pregnancy and baby.
Anyone who knows you will know that Binky could never replace Maddie, but I hope that Binky can fill a tiny part of the huge hole in your life. And Binky will always know of the huge force that is Maddie.
**Love & hugs**
.-= punkinmama´s last blog ..wordless wednesday: pool time surprise =-.
Congratulations. What wonderful news.
A new baby will never take away your pain. A new baby will not make you whole or replace what you’ve lost. But a new baby can help you find light in the darkness.
I have never commented on your blog because what can one say when something so tragic happens. I have read every day and cried many times. Cried so many times I would have to look away and say a quick prayer for your family.
Now I feel like I have to comment after so many months of being a silent fan.
Congrats on your wonderful news. All will be well and I send you huge hugs from NJ.
Kayla
WOW! HUUUUGE CONGRATS!!! We’re with you every step of the way.
.-= Angie [A Whole Lot of Nothing]´s last blog ..Aiming Low =-.
I like to think Maddie is putting together the baby as we speak, going up and down the little baby aisles, picking out the smiles, the little toes, and the heart that her little bro/sis will have. She is definitely playing a part!
Congrats and best wishes for a safe pregnancy and on the new baby!
I can only imagine how bittersweet it must be. There will be so many rollercoasters of emotions and milestones…so many happy moments tinged or taken over by sad what-could-have-beens. But I know this new little one will be loved and cherished and will never “replace” Maddie. I know you will find a way to be sure he/she knows what a wonderful and beautiful big sister he/she has watching over him/her!
I’m so happy for you!! Your new little one is going to have an angel watching over him/her for a lifetime. I’ll be praying for a healthy pregnancy and a healthy little baby this winter.
Thinking of you both and wrapping you in my prayers. I am elated at the news of this new miracle but I can only imagine how difficult it also is. Praying for a remarkable peace for you and Mike and for health in your body and the body of this new, precious life.
.-= Ramee´s last blog ..Sweet Sunday. =-.
What a wonderful joy, to have a baby on the way! It is OK to be sad and happy at the same time, and the new baby will love hearing all about his/her big sister.
.-= Miche@CoordinatedChaos´s last blog ..99 Balloons =-.
Wonderful, wonderful news. All the very best.
.-= kgirl´s last blog ..Kgirl’s Book Club – Six Months in Sudan =-.
OHHH Heather! Your news made me cry even though I suspected you were pregnant. I have unfortunately have 3 friends who have all lost their babies – 2 at birth, one at 10 months old. I can tell you without a doubt Heather, when they all had their new babies, they were healed…not completely but it did heal them.
They all did have their moments of feeling guilty, fearful, sadness and they all wondered if they could possibily love their new baby as much as they loved their other child.
Just last week, my close girlfriend give birth to a healthy baby boy 11 month after we lost her precious daughter. As she cuddled him, she looked up at me and said “I hope the moment he was born, the Angels dancing….especially our Angel”! I hugged her and told I knew they were and Heather, I know they will when your new son or daughter will be born as well and Maddie will be right with them giggling, clapping her little hands and saying “WOW”!!!!
I wish I lived closer so I could somehow help you. If you need anything from “afar” PLEASe let me know and I will be there!
Thinking and praying for you, Mike, Maddie and the Binky. So looking forward to being able to be apart of this process with you!!!! I can’t wait to hear about the gender, the name choices, the nursery choices, etc. Personally, I think we should have an one line baby shower for you!
Thank you for sharing your amazing news! Your new baby is sooo lucky to call you mom and Mike, Daddy! How lucky he/she will be!!!
With joy and excitement,
Your Stranger Friend,
Jenn
Congratulations! Surely this baby has a special little angel watching over him or her. All the best.
.-= Catherine´s last blog ..seven months =-.
Congratulations Heather and Mike! To say your emotions are all over the place must be the understatement of the year, but this is truly wonderful news. I’m crazy excited for you!
.-= Genie´s last blog ..Living Out Loud volume 7: By any other name … =-.
Congratulations! I know that Binky has an angel looking out for him/her, just like you and Mike have. I do believe that Maddie knows her sibling.
You are always in my thoughts and prayers.
*hugs*
Congratulations sweetie! I’m so happy for you and Mike!
.-= Kristabella´s last blog ..Hoedown Throwdown =-.
Congratulations! I know Maddie had something to do with this!! She is a special girl! (not “was”)
.-= kelly´s last blog ..The Lily Mermaid =-.
I am thrilled for you, and at the same time my heart breaks for you. Congratulations — can’t wait to hear all about Binky!
.-= Emilie @ Doritos for Dinner´s last blog ..Who is this kid and what has she done with Ellie? =-.
Congratulations! Your new bundle of joy will be loved so much by you, Mike, and Maddie. He or she will have a very special angel always looking over them. And he or she will grow up with stories and pictures to see of their sister.
I will pray that this pregancy and birth goes smoothly!
~Hugs from TX
.-= Alli´s last blog ..Fun Game of Tag! =-.
Hip Hip Hooray!!!! I am so happy! Having been in this situation too (high risk pregnancy) I can totally understand your worries. I counted down the weeks of my pregnancy and if I had ANY thing out of the ordinary I immediately went to hospital labor/delivery. I was so paranoid that I just skipped my doctor and went right into the hospital. This WILL be a good pregnancy for you. I am going to save this post and pull it up this time next year (when your baby is 6 months) to remind myself of how happy I am for you and your family. This calls for a super dance to Mighty B!!!! Go girl!!!
Your two sweet babies surely are passing each other on the way in and the way out– knowing each other from the very beginning.
Oh my, how wonderful!! I read your Tweet and came flying over here, read your post, cried and proceeded to call text and post to all my friends that follow you as if it were a close friend of ours that just announced her pregnancy… because you ARE, even though you don’t know me or them. I don’t think ANYONE in their right mind would think you are “replacing” Maddie or going to be “all better” because of this, I think its a beautiful way to help you heal ( I know you’ll never be 100% healed) by giving your heart, mind and body something positive to focus on while you grieve. I totally believe Maddie’s spirit will be with Binky and has been from the moment he/she was conceived.
Yesterdays Tweet ” So Sad. Aching for my baby.” struck me , made my heart ache knowing your agony is bigger than I can imagine, but todays made my heart skip a beat for the Happy news. I think about your and Mikes hearts and how confused they must be aching and skipping at the same time, still hurting but happy and hopeful.
Congratulations, H&H 9mo 2 u.
.-= Zandi´s last blog .. =-.
Congratulations! I know Maddie will be watching over her sibling to make sure things go well!
Congratulations! I’m so happy for you!
This is Maddie’s gift to you.
Congratulations and sending you all the best wishes for a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.
Oh… such wonderful news. Praying for you, thinking of you and elated for you.
.-= michelle´s last blog ..Kendal…being Kendal! =-.
Oh Heather and Mike–CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!
I know your emotions must be all over the board right now–but I’m so happy for you!!
My sister had the same clotting disorder and once she was diagnosed and receiving the same treatment as you (injections in the stomach, monitoring, etc.) everything was fine.
Wishing the very very best foir you guys!!!
.-= Jennifer´s last blog ..My Day In Haiku =-.
Congratulations to you guys. I am so happy for you guys and feel that your little Maddie is smiling from above.
Congratulations! I am so happy for you both, and I know that your thoughts are everywhere – but this is a blessing and I know that Maddie is watching over you (the three of you – well, 4, sorry Rigby!). Wishing you the best, can’t wait to get more on Binky!
I really hope and wish that you have a healthy pregnancy! This is great news and I am thinking of you!
How fantastic! My thoughts and prayers are with you. Maddie would have loved this!
How wonderful, a little miracle! I hope everything continues to go fine! God Bless.
Courtney in New York
.-= Courtney´s last blog ..So much to say… =-.
SQUEE! For a new baby!
And my God, how hard this must be for you.
Thinking of y’all and wishing you joy.
.-= daysgoby´s last blog ..just pooling ourselves =-.
Congratulations! How special for your new little one that she has her own personal angel for a big sister.
.-= 3carnations´s last blog ..Burger King, let me count the ways =-.
Heather,
I am so happy for you and Mike and will keep you both in my prayers every night. I believe that the new miracle will have Maddie as a guardian angel. All my best.
.-= Amanda´s last blog ..The Letter “V” =-.
I’m totally crying at my desk! Congratulations and all the blessings in the world!
.-= samantha jo campen´s last blog ..Like Jaws, but cuter =-.
I know it will be a bittersweet event, but how wonderful. I’m so happy for you. It sounds like you’re in good hands.
Wow, just wow. I’m so happy for you both…I can’t imagine the heartache combined with the utter joy, but hopefully you will always be able to see this as Maddie’s parting gift to you. Perhaps she gave you a new baby to help you carry on without her, knowing her memory would always be deep in your hearts.
Congratulations! I will keep you guys in my thoughts and prayers!
.-= Meghan Carroll´s last blog ..We Have Started!!! =-.
Prior to seeing this posting I got a request on facebook to join the Friends of Maddie page. The word of her life is making its way around the world. When I saw it I thought that through your unthinkable tragedy Maddie is saving other families and children. Her legacy is clearly going to live on forever and help others. Isn’t that we all want from our lives? Even though I don’t know you the thought of Binky growing up not knowing Maddie is horrific. However, through your Blogs and the legacy that she has Binky will know him/her. Congratulations on the new addition and you guys are in all of our thoughts.
Well. That’s just great. I already spend all my time praying/thinking for/of you guys and now I just have to do it more. Geez. (Do we all know I’m being sarcastic?)
CONGRATS! I’m so happy about this! You have the power of the Internets behind you. We will all be behind you.
Take good care of yourself!
.-= Amber Mc´s last blog ..Photo Phriday: Puweshus Momories, we haz it. =-.
Wow. Amazing news. Hugs!
.-= Lolita´s last blog ..Whrrlwind Trip to Chicago =-.
Wow, that is great news, your new little one will have a special angel keeping her eye on him or her.
Tears of joy in my eyes for you both right now! I know this baby will in NO WAY “replace” Maddie… no one ever could do this. I will say, though, that your family is overdue for some happiness, so take it and enjoy this beautiful gift from God. I also have to say that I truly believe with all of my heart that Maddie DOES know her little sibling, even before you! And I know you will never let this baby not know his/her big sister! Congratulations to you both!!!
.-= Patty´s last blog ..A brighter day =-.
Oooooo! I wondered, when you were talking about going to the doctors and such, a little while back.
I’m hoping and praying that this is a healthy and successful pregnancy. I wish I knew you in RL, I’d hug you to pieces right now..:)
.-= Melina´s last blog ..The one with Laura Nimbach =-.
congratulations. I’m so glad your drs are watching you close. Lots of good vibes for a healthy pregnancy and birth. Your new little one will grow up with the best guardian angel watching over her and always know about her big sister.
Beautiful news. I will be praying for you, and checking on you daily.
Maddie is in there with you.
Oh Heather. I am so happy for you, so heartbroken for you. Amazing, and I’m praying for you and Mike.
.-= chatty cricket´s last blog ..and THEN they all fall out. =-.
wow! Congrats and hopefully everything will go well!
.-= Ceece´s last blog ..Hello, Newman. =-.
Oh, wow.
Awesome I think.
Grow, Binky, grow!
Oooh I had a hunch, from something you said a while back. Still, congratulations… I don’t think anyone will think that you’re “over Maddie”. Ugh.
Best of luck with this pregnancy!
.-= Ari´s last blog ..Ok, ok… I get the point already. =-.
We’ll all be holding our breath along with you for a healthy 9 mines! I am sure the professionals learned alot from your first pregnancy and this is Maddie’s gift to the new baby!
I’m due in November, so we’ll have babies close in age.
Congratulations!
.-= Heather´s last blog ..Healthy baby! Uncomfortable Mommy =-.
That’s amazing! Best of luck through everything.
.-= Heather´s last blog ..Shop ’til you drop! =-.
Many, many friends are hoping and praying for nothing but the best for all of you. Add my name to that list.
I am so happy for you. You continue to be in my prayers.
I am so happy for you and your husband!! Congratulations! I will continue to pray for you and your family and look forward to hearing about the healthy arrival of your little one!
Congratulations!
Oh wow. I am so happy for you and so sad for you at the same time. Congratulations on the new baby. Of course he/she will never replace Maddie, Maddie was a one of a kind. You are such an amazing woman and mother, and I have no doubt there is room in your heart for another.
.-= annettek´s last blog ..all the stars =-.
Congratulations! I hope you will have an uneventful pregnancy ( uneventful as it can be seeing all those docs) and that you will enjoy the excitement that goes along with expecting. Enjoy the anticipation of a new life while loving and grieving for Maddie.Take good care of yourself and go one day at a time.
Thinking of you and Mike!
Vicky
Such amazing news, congratulations. Your beautiful angel will be giving you all sorts of support to bring Binky into the world healthy (and I’m sure he/she will have at least a little bit of Maddie’s mischief
).
awww brought tears to my eyes. congrats. im sure Maddie is sharing in your joy, keeping her sibiling company until his/her debut. we’re still praying for you! xoxox ~the pyle’s
I am so happy for you, congratulations
I know that it is very hard and a subsequent pregnancy is always hard and it will feel like a long 40 weeks. Our daughter was born 17 months after we lost Liam, it was very hard but in some way her birth made losing him bearable and we were able to smile again, behind every cloud there is the sun………
Oh wow! Congratulations to your family! I’ve wanted to write for a while, as you and I are in some very superficial ways similar. I just turned 30, I have a 22 month old daughter, live in OC, and worked at NPI at UCLA while you were there, although we have never met. I am also due in early February – just heard the heart beat Friday. I have had all the luck you deserve, and so I send it to you as a small gift. With all my heart I send you as much luck as I possibly can, and crossed fingers, and positive vibes, and prayers.
So (cautiously, optimistically) thrilled for you guys. You seem to be in much better hands this time around, I hope that it makes a big difference.
You must be ecstatic and terrified… My head would be spinning…
I hope (so very much) that everything turns out perfectly for you. You deserve all the happiness in the world – while nothing will ever mend your broken heart, Binky should go a long way towards being an amazingly bright light where there is otherwise darkness.
Love and hugs
.-= Kelly´s last blog ..Climbing into my new stroller =-.
Heather my husband’s grandmother has lots of old stories and wives tales she shares with us. I’ve heard her say so many times that babies live in Heaven before they are born, they stay there until its time to make an appearance here in our world. Over time I’ve started believing everything this old woman says, she’s so wise about so many things. So I just wanted to tell you I strongly believe the baby and Maddie do know each other and are entertaining each other right now until time when the baby comes into our world. She’s also said that for the first few years of a child’s life it can see Heaven and angels. So when a baby is staring off into space smiling, it’s not for nothing, it’s smiling at someone or something that we just can’t see. So when the baby giggles and smiles in the air, I would be certain he/she is smiling at big Sis Maddie. I hope this brings you some kind of comfort. It has helped me and I truly believe it with all my heart. I’ll be praying for you all extra hard!
I am SO excited for you both and know that with your special angel watching over you; everything will be okay. You also have some incredible doctor’s watching you.
You know Maddie is ecstatic for you two… why wouldn’t she be? She wants her momma and daddy to be happy, and she has a little brother or sister to watch over now, too. It’s all going to work out beautifully. Also know that because you are pregnant right now, that doesn’t mean that others just assume you are “over Maddie” etc, obviously God had huge plans for you, and Maddie knows how wonderful of parents you and Mike were, and she wants nothing more than you guys to be happy again, and maybe this was her little way of making that wish and want, come true. This new bundle of joy is truly Maddie’s blessing sent from above.
I am sending an incredible amount of love, hope, and good vibes your way. You and Mike deserve it.
.-= Krystle @snarkykisses´s last blog ..Slackerific! =-.
Oh God, Heather, I am so happy for you and Mike that I am starting to cry. Of course you will never be over Maddie, but seriously? No one thinks you ever will be. But that pain doesn’t dimish your freedom to be as happy as possible for the new baby, just as you would be if Maddie were there to enjoy it too. In a way she is there to enjoy it, in spirit.
I usually just lurk, but I had to come out of hiding to say congratulations. I will be thinking all the healthy mommy and baby thoughts in the world for you.
such happy news!! Congratulations to you both!!
.-= Ohmygoshi´s last blog ..I wish… =-.
heather:
nothing like losing a child but i lost my mom four days after learning i was pregnant. i now think the pregnancy was a gift from my mom — to give me something to look forward to, something to help pull me through the grief. i couldn’t lay in bed with the covers pulled over my head all day and drink wine all night because i had to take care of myself and the baby growing inside….i worried people would think i was over my mom’s death after the baby came. i totally get what you are saying. the baby did help me heal — so much — but he also was a constant reminder of all my mom was missing. (3 years later, he still is.) you can’t control what people think or understand: those who have never grieved can’t even conceptualize what you and your husband are experiencing. (and that is their good fortune.)
i believe my mom watches over my family through my son, whose life is inextricably connected to her death. and sometimes i think she communicates to me through him. your baby might be such a vessel for your maddie. i believe that s/he will be.
be well and know that a random stranger in NY is sending you and your growing child positive energy.
Good
.-= Dona´s last blog ..Love My Garden =-.
Oh Wow!!! I’m so very, very happy for you and Mike! I had the same fears that you did about adding a sibling. And you already know what I found out…the baby will not ever replace the child that you lost. You just have a big job: making sure your new baby knows all about Maddie and how she will always have a big sister watching out for her.
.-= JennK´s last blog ..Date night. =-.
Congratulations to you both! I pray for a healthy pregnancy and a healthy little baby.
.-= Girl With Curious Hair´s last blog ..Card Carrying Member of AARP =-.
How bittersweet-though I can’t help but think that Maddie is watching over this special little one from heaven, and that she knows them in some way.
Many, many prayers are heading your way.
.-= Christy´s last blog ..Dental Woes =-.
This is such happy and wonderful news! Congratulations! Keep it up with the docs and take care of yourself for a happy and healthy little baby
.-= Two Makes Four´s last blog ..So I Let Them Play with Plastic and Metal =-.
Congrats to you and Mike Heather! Binky is my nickname! Even if Maddie can’t be a part of your family on earth she is still a part of it and no one can ever take that away from you. Little Binky will always have a guardian angel watching out for him/her.
Congratulations! How wonderful for you all!
Congrats! I’m so happy to hear that you’ll be bringing another little ray of sunshine into this world. You and Mike make beautiful babies. This little one will always have their big sister Madeline, watching over them.
Heather & Mike,
I am so happy for you both. I have followed your painful journey over the last few months, and I keep you and your beautiful Maddie in my prayers on a regular basis.
I will continue to do so as the newest little Spohr grows bigger and stronger.
Much love to all of you.
Amy
.-= amy´s last blog ..I Married One In 12,500… =-.
This is such amazing news! How did I come in late on this!? I can’t wait to hug you in person in just a few short days!
.-= Brittany´s last blog ..Waiting rooms and Mennonites. =-.
Oh, Heather! Congratulations!!! It’s okay to be happy–really. No one will judge… After going through something so terrible, you deserve some more goodness coming your way!
.-= The Dumbest Smart Girl You Know´s last blog ..Gram: the year in letters =-.
Wow Heather, that is really wonderful! I’m really happy for you guys! Love you!
xoxo
.-= Karen Sugarpants´s last blog ..Paging Nurse Scaredypants =-.
Congratulations.
It can be so difficult to be grieving, excited, scared and cautious at the same time. Let yourself continue grieving while you are anticipating Maddie’s sibling. It is so necesary and completely healthy. When we don’t allow ourselves to grieve completely, we will harbor bitterness and resentment in some form to replace the grieving that we don’t allow ourselves to bring to fruition. It will be a journey that in so many ways will not be over until you reach the other side. And on the other side (heaven) you will see Maddie again . That is the hope that we have in Jesus. This life is not the end. Life has two parts, this life and then the life that begins after death. One out of one people will eventually die. Period. No discussion. Then comes eternity. Maddie is there waiting. That should bring hope in the aspect of this life is not the end. It does not take away the pain in this life by any means. But it does bring hope in the aspect that all who accept Jesus as Savior will be reunited after death in Heaven. That is a promise in the Bible. Maddie having been a child gives her an automatic pass to heaven so to speak. But as adults we have to choose to accept Christ’s forgiveness of sin and His payment for a sin debt that we could never pay. That is my hope in this life. Those that I love in this live who died as children or died as adults who accepted Jesus as Savior are in Heaven and I will see them when my life here is over. Does that make me miss them any less. Absolutely not. But is does help me to know that I will see them again.
Tasha
Congratulations!
I pray for you and your family often. Have a happy and healthy pregnancy and baby.
.-= Jennie´s last blog ..Happy Birthday, Uncle Chris =-.
O-M-G
Soooo, happy for you and Mike!
I was so hoping for this for you guys – not that it would make Maddie’s passing hurt any less – but so that you could know another baby, another happiness, another sweet face.
Your sweet Maddie will NEVER be forgotten – she is an energy and a spirit that has unleashed a new and different kind of meaning in peoples lives – the people who follow you are helping other NICU families and the March of Dimes because of Maddie, in her name, for her memory – that’s a powerful thing.
You have made thousands of people all over the world very happy and hopeful today.
Holding your hand from Texas . . . .
Congratulations!
You and your family will definitely be in my prayers as you deal with the excitement and mixed feelings and continued grief. I’ll also be praying for your health and Binky’s health. Mostly, I’ll be praying for peace for you all.
.-= TexasRed´s last blog ..Secret Recipes for the Modern Wife Giveaway =-.
congratulations! i wish you peace and happiness…
kath
I have been following your story from afar, because I am at a loss for words most of the time after reading. I just wanted you both to know how happy I am for you. Take care of yourselves. Congrats.
.-= Kat´s last blog ..Rockin Out =-.
congratulations!! I was so happy reading this!!!
.-= Isadora´s last blog ..Diego cake =-.
Congratulations! I’m just speechless. How wonderful.
.-= The Tutugirl´s last blog ..Messy =-.
Wow. Congratulations! I totally understand your reservations about other peoples’ perceptions regarding this new pregnancy. I understand your own fears and sadness that the new little one won’t know Maddie other than the pictures and videos you have of her. On the other hand, you’ll have the chance to show another new person how awesome Maddie was. The Maddie Fan Club is going to get one more member. Healthy pregnancy, and hugs to you both. It’ll be okay.
.-= Andrea´s last blog ..Rest Area Rampage =-.
Congratulations! I know the next going may get tough over the next 7 months, but I’m so excited for you two and you know we are all here rooting for you!
.-= Janelle´s last blog ..Montessori’s Nothing But Fun Summer Camp =-.
I know little Binky leaves you both with so many questions, but I can’t help but be SO EXCITED and happy for you.
Of course you’re not over Maddie. There won’t ever be a time when you’re “over Maddie”.
Love, love, love you!
.-= Andrea’s Sweet Life´s last blog ..Friends of Maddie =-.
Just wanted to say congrats!!!
I understand the fear BELIEVE me! My son is a 26 weeker preemie. I lost my daughter (his twin) at 20 weeks. I’ve also had 2 miscarriages. We found out in June that I am pregnant again and expecting baby number 2 mid, february! We have seen this babies heartbeat and I’ve seen it move so I feel some what better. But i think i’ll be scared till I hold this little one in my arms!
Good luck! I know Maddie is watching over you all!
Kim
Congratulations, Mike and Heather!
There is a family in my town who lost all three of their precious little ones on one day in a horrific car accident. Their grief was unimaginable. In an interview they described themselves as parents without children. I think that is one of the worst of all life sentences — to be here on earth while your child is not. This family got pregnant about 3 months after their children’s accident, and went on to have triplets. These new little ones bring them new joy. If anyone ever suggested that they were just trying to “replace” their other children, well…anyone who would even think that would have to have something wrong with them.
It warms my heart this morning to read your post. So exciting! Yet, bittersweet….
Congratulations to you, Heather!
.-= Katrina´s last blog ..Sugar & Spice? =-.
I am so so so happy for your family.
.-= Ginger´s last blog ..Haiku Friday – my summer look =-.
Congratulations!! I’m over the moon happy for you!!!
.-= Chrsity M.´s last blog ..She =-.
Amazing news! Sending love and prayers to you!
CONGRATULATIONS!!! This is fantastic news! Try to stay as positive as you can, we want baby bean to cook in there as long as possible!!
Somehow it seems that any time I read your blog, I am left in tears. This is incredible news, and I know it is bittersweet for you both, but I wish you all the best. Someone above said that Maddie will be the angel watching over your baby – and I agree. Your baby couldn’t be in better hands. Best wishes to you all.
Weeping for you here in Maine. Many healthy vibes coming your way. Congratulations.
Congratulations!
I understand your mixed emotions. I never felt truly excited about my 4th pregnancy because it was overshadowed by the dark cloud of my 3rd. Not until my sweet baby was in my arms did I let myself cry with joy over him….and cry with sorrow for the sister he would never have.
Let yourself be a little bit joyful. Enjoy this pregnancy as much as you are able. Maddie would want you to be happy and excited!
Oh, my God! I can’t even describe to you the chills that ran up and down my arms when I read your post! A million congratulations!!
Praying every day that the little miracle inside of you arrives healthy and well and in January.
I think of you and Mike and Maddie daily. I pray for you guys and that you find peace and that Maddie is in God’s arms safe and sound. Now I can add Binky to my prayers.
And I swear I’m not even religious!
Congratulations, Heather. Lots of hugs.
.-= Pocklock´s last blog ..May The Geek Be With You =-.
Heather and Mike,
Congratulations and the very best wishes for a healthy and safe pregnancy and new addition.
I know that you must feel much excitement and joy at the prospect of a new sibling for your dear Maddie, and as you said, sadness that they won’t meet on this earth. I am sure that Maddie is watching over you all, and happy to know some comfort is found in your blessed news.
I will continue to pray for you all. Thank you for sharing with us.
.-= Bonnie´s last blog ..MOTHER’s Act =-.
It sounds like a very special angel sent you a very special gift from God.
I think and pray for you and Mike all the time. I once saw a show with parents, who, like you, had lost a child. They went on to have another and one were quoted as saying that a new baby can’t help but bring joy into a home. The baby won’t replace Maddie or take away your pain at her loss.. but I have a feeling you and Mike will experience joy – true joy with this new baby. I will be praying for a healthy pregnancy… I sincerely wish you the best Heather, you are never far from my thoughts and prayers. You’ve never met me and don’t know me at all, but I am always wishing you strength and blessings.
.-= Paige´s last blog ..bottle with beeloh.jpg =-.
gah, what an emotional juggling act. It feels weird to say Im sorry and congrats at the same time but that’s really what it is…
I have a clotting disorder too(MTHFR). It’s possible i almost died of an embolism when i was pregs with my 1st but substandard care never found the true cause. My 1st has autism which has been tied to my clotting disorder… no one tested me for clotting disorders though until my aunt suddenly died of a pulmonary embolism. Even then I was never sent along to a blood doctor. It was not until this passed December that I found more info on my disorder and flipped my lid. I dragged myself to the blood doctor and found out that I could avoid keeling over like my aunt through simple vitamin and aspirin therapy- you’d think one of my 20 badillion other docs might have mentioned that!
Right now that I’m pregs Im on vitamins, aspirin, and blood thinners. They have me on Arxitra this time, since Lovenox and I dont play nice. They will switch me to Heparin around 30 weeks since I too have PTL issues. My last 2 babies were born at 35 weeks…
best wishes to you for both a glimmer of joy in this pregnancy and continued healing in your heart
.-= fidget´s last blog ..enrolling in the PRP =-.
I’m so incredibly happy for you both!! What joyous news. And to think Binky already has a guardian angel to watch over her/him and keep him/her safe.
.-= Karen´s last blog ..Baby steps =-.
a million trillion congrats! thanks for sharing!
I cannot think of a couple more deserving of such wonderful news. I agree wholeheartedly with a previous poster who said that this baby is so lucky to already have an angel watching out for him/her.
Congrats!!
Congratulations
All the best to you both.
Congratulations. I know that both of you probably have so many emotions. I will continue to pray for you and now for you new baby on the way.
What wonderful news! I will pray for your health daily.
I am so happy for you. Congratulations!
Sending massive, powerful prayers your way.
.-= Beth at I Should Be Folding Laundry´s last blog ..Winners and other random quickies =-.
Heather and Mike I’m so happy that I’m crying!
It’s alright to be joyful and sorrowful at the same time. You’re celebrating a beautiful gift, and mourning a unimaginable loss at the exact same time.
Maddie already knows her sibling. She has already met him or her, and will watch over all of you as he or she grows.
Sending you all lots of love and prayers.
Oh – That is wonderful news! I am so excited for you guys. A new baby is always exciting.
I hope you are feeling well and will pray for smooth sailing 9 months.
Good luck!
Sarah
.-= Sarah´s last blog ..3bundlesforme: Am the ONLY patient in the entire dr’s office, my appt was 1/2 hr ago, and I am still waiting. WTF?! Not going to make the Nordstrom’s sale! =-.
wow!
I can’t help but wonder if Maddie has called in a special order with the big guy upstairs…..
I am sending you thoughts and wishes of a healthy pregnancy.
.-= sensibly sassy´s last blog ..Admitting You Have A Problem Is The First Step =-.
my mother in law has 6 children. One time someone (insensitive) told her that she was lucky to have so many kids because if one died she wouldn’t even have to get sad. Nothing replaces another person’s life, nothing. Maddie will always be missed. Congratulations on your pregnancy. I hope with all my heart that all goes well.
.-= damaris´s last blog ..Chocolate Chip Orange Scones WITH Chocolate Cream Cheese Spread =-.
Wow. I remember when I was little, it seemed like women got pregnant when they wanted, and they always had healthy babies 9 months later. I never saw that in reality, so much more can happen instead.
I know that for every moment you’re excited, there’s at least one more that you’re worried–or scared, I’m sure. I will send all good juju your way and remember you in my every prayer.
.-= Amy´s last blog ..The old "I’m shaving my head that night" excuse =-.
Congratulations. A bittersweet one, but still, congratulations.
.-= Vic´s last blog ..In Vino Veritas =-.
I understand your conflicted feelings. It will be a hard transition and I’m sure most of us don’t know exactly how you feel (we try). On the other hand, I’m very happy for you and Mike and I wish you a very smooth pregnancy. I agree with all the others that Maddie will be with this little one all the way and you’ll definitely be able to see Maddie through this new little life.
Wow…..congratulations! Congratulations is the right word! You have so much love to give this precious baby, and he/she will be SO lucky to have you as their parents. Maddie will always be a big sister.
Wow. I am overcome.
Thank God that there is something concrete in your future to hope for.
I will be praying for those around you (especially in light of the recent “cuts both ways” post) that they’ll be able to understand that this child does not and will never replace Maddie.
And I will be praying for you that you are able to let go and love this Binky with abandon, love him just as much as you love Maddie, without fear that you’re loving him too much.
And praying for you that you won’t feel pressure to suppress your grief because of baby Binky.
…..
And also? SQUEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! babybabybabybabybabybabybabybabybabybabybabybabybabybabybabybaby!!!!!!!!!!
AND? Belly pictures, preferably all the way from slightly lumpy to Della-sized (oh gosh I am such a whale right now)! I so dearly hope that you will share them. I miss seeing pictures of you anyway – we haven’t had any fresh ones.
Love, tears, and so much more than I can ever fit in a comment box.
.-= Della´s last blog ..Wordless Wednesday and Three Things Thursday (on Friday) =-.
Absolutely wonderful. Congratulations.
Oh Heather! I’m so happy for you! I would have never thought that you having another baby was a way to replace your Maddie, but it will bring some joy and purpose back to your life. You and Mike are in thoughts and prayers.
My cousin died and a month or so later my aunt found out my other cousin was pregnant. At first she was upset, not even close to getting through my cousins death. Baby Nate was her project. She shopped for him, loved on him. This baby will never be Maddie. This baby will allow you to get through Maddie’s death. I heard a great quote after my mom died…..we don’t get over someones death we get THROUGH it.
Heather and Mike you’ll be in my prayers.
Congratulations on little Binky! (Out of curiousity, where did that nickname come from?) And even though he/she may not physically know Maddie, I know that you will share your memories of Maddie, and that Binky will KNOW Maddie. At least in the most important way. Sending hugs of joy!
OMG!!!!!!! I am so thrilled for you and Mike. Holy shit.
I can’t even imagine how amazing this is and how sad all at the same time. My heart is with you all. I hope that little Binky is healthy and that you stay healthy as well.
Okay, total selfish question….are you still going to come to BH this week, so I can hug you?
.-= Issa´s last blog ..To bug on her fifth birthday =-.
My sincere congratulations to you both. It sounds like you’re in the best of hands and are being well taken care of. Ignore what others might be thinking/saying, which I know is hard, beacause regardless of the situation, everyone has an opinion when you’re pregnant. Sending prayers and blessings your way! Congrats again!! So happy for you both.
My heart soars for you and Mike. Blessings and love (and of course lots and lots of prayers)
.-= Susan´s last blog ..Chex Mix Turtle Bars a Tweet Treat =-.
I’m so happy to hear this wonderful news. I can imagine that this would be mixed since you still miss Maddie and the knowledge that she won’t know her sibling. Still, I’m here and thinking of you, hoping for a successful pregnancy.
.-= Kate´s last blog ..Cupcakes =-.
I am a stranger friend (love that term used by someone else on a comment) and wanted to say congratulations and you are in my thoughts.
Congratulations and my very best wishes to you and your family. I hope you and Mike have an easier go round with the pregnancy this time.
I know you will be swamped at Blogher, and I am incredibly (naturally) shy. So I send my virtual wave across the room to you right now. Before anyone gets on a plane at all.
.-= mandy´s last blog ..Hyper Connectivity =-.
congratulations! you have our never-ending support.
my wish for you both is that no one is dumb-fuck enough to say stupid shit to you about this.
.-= mommymae´s last blog ..nekkid time =-.
Oh, WOW. Congratulations!
I’m thrilled for you. Like people have said, this baby won’t ever replace Maddy, but perhaps he/she will soothe that “Mom” spot in your heart .
Best wishes for a healthy pregnancy!
Congratulations. Maddie will watch from above.
.-= Heather´s last blog ..Wand vs. Gun =-.
Cuddles and hugs and looooooves and late night talks on the couch.
Here’s to hoping everything goes well with baby #2 and that I can get myself knocked up ASAP!!!
XOXOXOXOXOXO
I will be licking you SOOON!!!!
.-= VDog´s last blog ..What I’m Bringing To BlogHer: The Not Clothes or Shoes Edition =-.
Congratulations! Smiles all around.
(with the knowledge that you will never be over Maddie–I sorry she will miss her sibling.)
Jane
I am so excited for you! I can’t imagine the inner turmoil you are feeling. I am sending you tons of happy, healthy, 40 week pregnancy thoughts!
.-= Katrina´s last blog ..OK OK, I get it… =-.
Wow. That is heart warming news. So happy for you both. Can’t imagine the mixture of emotions that you are having.
Oh Heather! I know you have to be cautious…but I don’t – so here is me being SO FREAKIN’ EXCITED for you.
This baby will never fill the hole that Maddie left, this baby’s job is to be this baby. Wow, ummm, I sure make a lot of sense, don’t I? Sorry, I am just thrilled for you, and understanding how overwhelming and confusing it is to rejoice while you grieve. So even if I don’t articulate it well, this is me saying – I get it.
Our prayers are with you and Mike and Binky,
Sara Joy
.-= Sara Joy´s last blog ..Any Friend of Joel’s =-.
Holy shit!! Awww Heather I am seriously crying I am so happy for you guys. I can’t imagine the mixed emotions you guys must be having and will have but I know that the little beanie will know Maddie and how awesome she was through you and mike. This kid is the luckiest kid ever to have you guys as his/her parents. I can’t wait to meet the lil nugget
Wow, this is so amazing, I couldn’t believe it when I read it! Congrats, congrats, CONGRATS! Love you guys!
xoxoxoxo,
Tricia
Heather and Mike, this is amazing news! I know how hard it must be, but I like to think that Maddie is there with you all. Stay safe, take it easy and we are all here for you. Much love.
.-= Laurie´s last blog ..Beaching it up! =-.
Heather and Mike—so, so amazing. Warmest wishes, sticky-baby vibes, and every good thing.
Wow, I got chills reading this. Congratulations on your pregnancy. Sending good thoughts and prayers your way.
.-= blissfully caffeinated´s last blog ..Dear Neighbor… =-.
I’ve been holding my breath waiting to SQUEEEEEEEEEE!!!! publicly.
So many congrats, guys. xoxoxo
.-= Loralee´s last blog ..This month is going to kill me, I swear. =-.
CONGRATS! This is wonderful news! You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Allison
Chicago
wow….I’m just so happy for you guys. That’s awesome….I’m praying every night for your’s and the baby’s health. Internet hugs coming your way….
.-= Nina´s last blog ..Oh yes….more beach pictures =-.
I’d be lying if I said I hadn’t been waiting and waiting for this post. I’ve been hoping you guys would try to have another baby…but not to replace the one you lost: everyone in the world knows Maddie is absolutely irreplaceable. But in a way, I was hoping something wonderful would come into your life to give you something positive to focus on. I’m so happy for you two and hope this note reaches you in the intent in which it was written.
Much love,
Brittany
.-= Notesfromthegrove´s last blog ..Project B29-365 Week 8 =-.
wonderful:)
Congratulations! And I think anyone who matters will definitely know better than to take this as you both are “better” over little Maddie’s passing.
I also wanted to say I don’t comment much, but I read every entry you post Heather.
CONGRATULATIONS! I am excited for you and Mike AND Maddie. Maddie will take great care you and your baby from heaven. Have no fears for the famous Madeline will take care of your whole family!
With Love and Prayers!
Oh, what wonderful news! I read this post a few times to make sure I read it correctly
Lots of prayers for you and your family.
Maddie will be the best guardian angel a new baby could ask for. She is clapping for you right now. Congratulations!
Congratulations!
Can’t wait to hear all the pregnancy news. What an honor to Maddie’s memory to keep sharing the love you have to give!
Wow, just wow! Congratulations Spohrs! Keeping you both, Binky, and Maddie in my thoughts and prayers.
.-= Rachel´s last blog ..Professor You-Tube =-.
Wishing you nothing but LOVE and SUPPORT for the rest of your pregnancy and life. You are amazing! CONGRATS!
.-= Rachel´s last blog ..The poopy diaries =-.
Oh. My. I am really happy for both of you, but at the same time cursing the universe that this pregnancy is so bittersweet for you. Perhaps not the pregnancy, but the time of your life in which it is occurring.
There is probably no right thing to say right now (ahem…), but I am squeezing you tight in my thoughts, hoping for the best of outcomes and a beautiful baby with whom you will share Maddie as that baby grows.
.-= Casey´s last blog ..Couldn’t mussel their way in =-.
WOW!!! WOW!!! WOW!!! What a rollercoaster year you are having. Congratulations!
Congratulations to you and Mike! Sending well wishes, prayers for a very healthy pregnancy and child, and happiness that your new baby will always have a special guardian angel watching.
You’re right. It’s sad that Maddie won’t meet her sister or brother. But I also think that she’s watching over you guys.
I don’t have kids, I don’t know how it is to have kids. Neither do I know how it must feel to lose a child.
I hope you can give Maddie’s little sibling all the love as possible.
Your baby will be happy to have such an adorable big sister and such strong parents.
Heather and Mike,
I am so elated for you. Through the clouds can come sunshine. Maddie will never be replaced or forgotten, but through another baby you can rediscover the joy of parenthood. Congratulations.
Love,
Margueritte
.-= Miss MVK´s last blog ..Black and blue is the new black! =-.
Sending big hugs and congrats……Madeline will ALWAYS be honored….keep yourself healthy..and i will keep you in my prayers for a healthy safe pregnancy! lots and lots of love
.-= Erin´s last blog ..Sleep Tight =-.
This post made me sad and happy! I am so sorry Maddie wont be there to meet her brother or sister, but then I am so happy for you guys.
I will be praying for you, I hope your pregnancy will be fine and that there will be a little healthy baby arriving in January/February!
I am so excited for you guys!!
.-= Jessi´s last blog ..MckLinky and other random stuff… =-.
Congratulations to your family!!
This news makes me so happy and yet a little sad too. I am happy that you are going to welcome another child in the world — another child who will have the joy of experiencing your unconditional and generous love. I am so hopeful that the pregnancy will be easier than Maddie’s.
But I am also sad that Madeline will not get to meet her sibling. She would have made such a wonderful big sister. I wish you healing as you grapple with the bittersweet experience of preparing for a new child while grieving for the daughter who left you too soon.
God Bless your beautiful and growing family.
.-= Kristin´s last blog ..ok-finally =-.
I was not done yet!!
I have been following your blog quite some time now and Your posts often made me tear up. Whenever you said that you guys lived for Maddie, or did everything for Maddie and now that she is gone you didnt know what to do..
Well I think this little miracle came to give you hope, to give you a new perspective in life. It wont take away the pain but it will help you with it.
God sure is watching over you!!
.-= Jessi´s last blog ..MckLinky and other random stuff… =-.
Congratulations! Prayers for an uneventful pregnancy and delivery! I’m sure Maddie already has met her sibling and hand picked the perfect angel to join your family on earth.
Wishing you and Mike a heartfelt congratulations! I can imagine what a bittersweet time this is for you both, but I do hope the anticipation of Binky will bring some joy back into both of your lives. You deserve it, and that no doubt would be what Maddie would want for her mommy and daddy. Of course Maddie will always be Binky’s sister, and surely Binky will grow to feel as though he/she knows Maddie in a very special way through your loving stories, photos, and videos of your special little angel.
Amen. I found your blog on your saddest day and I have thought many times, I hope they have another baby. It is just so clear that you and Mike have so much love to give. And in no way will it mean that you are over Maddie.
Life is for living and soon enough we will all cross the bridge to see those that crossed before us. We must hold onto this belief. We must.
Prayers for your pregnancy. Julia
.-= Julia´s last blog ..Angela’s Ashes =-.
Congratulations! I’ll keep praying for you and Binky!
Heather, I found your blog through Matt Logelin, who I found on BabyCenter. Through blog hopping through friends, I found you, and I have cried with you, prayed for you and wondered how you were doing, from a distance – again, the beauty of a blog and the friends that come from it. Your journey has been incredible, and the heartbreak you must feel, unbearable. I hope and pray that your healing continues, and a sibling for Maddie is a blessing. Prayers for good health for you both and the continued healing of heavy hearts.
Remember every single detail of Maddie’s life, so you can share her with her sibling. This blog will help you do that, for sure. Take care of yourself and that precious little one, too. Maddie’s a guardian angel, for sure.
Love and prayers,
Emily, Indianapolis, IN
.-= Emily´s last blog ..Photo Shoot =-.
Congratulations! I’m sure it’s a mixed blessing for you. Whatever your religious beliefs (or nonbeliefs), I am sure somehow Maddie is watching over all of you and making sure her little sibling is safe. And I know you guys will do a wonderful job of making sure your new baby knows how amazing and special his/her big sister Maddie was and is!
You’re in my thoughts for an uneventful and healthy pregnancy and delivery!
.-= Lisa in WI´s last blog ..Healthy Wednesday =-.
WOW, Heather and Mike! Congratulations on your little miracle.
All of you are always in my prayers.
Wishing you all the very best. I know it must be hard to know that Maddie will not be able to be a part of this, but she will always be with you in spirit … I am very happy for you.
I am soo excited for you and Mike!!! Congratulations! I will pray that your pregnancy goes so smoothly. I know Maddie is smiling. So much love and (hugs) to you both. =-)
.-= Jodee´s last blog ..Friends of Maddie =-.
congratulations to you and Mike and the rest of your family.
I think everyone who knows you and knows better understands that Binky will never replace Maddie, as any one child is not a substitute for another.
we experienced two losses before welcoming our daughter and i didn’t tell anyone outside of both sets of grandparents, that i was pregnant until i was showing at 18 weeks.
the uncertainty is what grabs a hold and doesn’t let go until you hold your beautiful baby and it becomes real once again. remember why it is you and Mike chose to have a family in the first place and focus on that, on your love, and your love for Maddie and Binky.
I, too, get to partake in the awesome med cocktail of hormones, blood thinners, and daily shots and some fabulous combo of that is what helps my babies grow and thrive.
many blessings to all of you – there are more prayers coming your way than you will ever know!
.-= Amy´s last blog ..bag lady junior =-.
that is the best news I have heard in ages
.-= habanerogal´s last blog ..Beaver-time in Utah =-.
My body is filled with goosebumps and tears as I type this comment. That is beautiful news and I pray that your little baby will be perfect. Maddie will never be a thing of the past, I never expect you and Mike to move on. Maddie is your life and always will be. Your new son or daughter will love getting to know Maddie through all your wonderful photos and video. I am so very happy for you. Take care & God Bless.
.-= Debby´s last blog ..CHECK THIS OUT =-.
What amazing and wonderful news!
WOW…that’s great news!!
Congratulations, Heather and Mike!! What a wonderful blessing.
And again today you have made me cry, this time happy tears for you. I am totally in awe for you.
.-= Jen´s last blog ..Chase – Month 1 =-.
Congratulations!! I have nothing but great admiration and love for you guys!
Congratulations!
I can only imagine how all over the place your emotions are at this time. I know you will never be over the loss of Maddie, just because your family is changing yet again doesn’t mean you love Maddie any less or grieving for her any less. Losing Maddie also doesn’t mean you don’t have plenty of love to share with Binky, you will love him/her with all your heart.
I am happy for you.
.-= Rachel´s last blog ..Bad News/Good News =-.
Oh! Oh! Oh! Congratulations! I am so happy for you both, even though I know this is tremendously bittersweet for you. And I’m so happy for Binky, because you are both TREMENDOUS parents. I can’t help but think – no, I KNOW – that Maddie will know Binky, because they are cut from the same cloth.
You, Mike and Maddie are in my thoughts, wishing you a healthy, full-term pregnancy.
Congrats Heather & Mike! In one of your post you said you had a surprise, and I kept thinking, maybe she’s pregnant. But when you posted about Maddie’s foundation I thought, maybe not! I’m so happy for you! I’m sure the Dr’s will monitor you a lot closely and all will be fine! What a blessing! XO
SO HAPPY FOR YOU!!!
CONGRATULATIONS SPOHRS!!
So happy for your family. There is no replacing Maddie, there will never be another. I’m sorry her brother or sister won’t get to know her in person, but you will be able to introduce him/her to Maddie through your stories, your pictures, your love.
My thoughts are with you during this emotional time. Pregnancy is hard enough, high risk pregnancy is hard enough (as you well know), but high risk pregnancy through grief is something I can’t contemplate. I hope your little one is growing strong. He/She is lucky to have parents like you & MIke.
That is fabulous news!!! Congratulations!!!
.-= Sam´s last blog ..Curiosity and Summertime Yumminess!!! =-.
I can only imagine how nervous you are for this pregnancy to be a healthy one! Every pregnancy is different and you have all the “right” Dr.’s helping ensure its success! Maddie would be happy that you will have a little one here on earth to love you back. No doubt Maddie will continue to shine through her sibling’s eyes, as well, keeping her own memory alive! So happy for you!
SO HAPPY FOR YOU!!
CONGRATULATIONS SPOHRS!!
I most sincerely hope and pray that your pregnancy goes well and your heart begins to heal just a tiny bit.
God Bless
Joy
Atlanta, GA
I am so happy for you guys! I think sweet little Maddie might have had a hand in sending this one your way. And she has to be so excited for you guys.
Congrats!!!!
.-= Andrea Neuman´s last blog ..Tina Miera Photography: Art at it’s finest… =-.
I have had a feeling for a while that you were pregnant. I don’t know why but I kept thinking every time you posted something about big news, exciting, etc. that it would be a sibling for Maddie. I think this baby is one lucky little guy to have such a great sister and wonderful parents, family, friends to enjoy him/her. Congrats to you and Mike and of course Maddie and Rigby and everyone in your lives! I have tears in my eyes and my heart is smiling for you guys through this beautiful blessing. No one can ever replace Madeline ever and the fact that she is going to have a sibling to watch over that is wonderful!
Wow! I hope this brings you some joy again. Best wishes to you both, and the little one!
.-= Erin´s last blog ..Seeing Foxes: Learning to Be =-.
I had hoped you guys would have another baby some day. Such a blessing. And he/she will have the best guardian angel. Love to you guys and God bless.
Heather and Mike-
I have been following your blog, I think, since right before Maddie left you. I have cried and laughed over your blogs, experiencing the pain along with you as only one looking in, can.
My husband and I have suffered three miscarriages, all at varying points of the pregnancy (none after 8 weeks). We were exhuasted and tired of trying and tests when we found out in May that we are once again pregnant…also due at the end of January. I know, to a point, the fear of going through a pregnancy after loss. We still haven’t told many family members because we are scared that something will happen. I don’t know if this will help, but please know that I will be thinking of you and Mike, Maddie and the new baby as you go through this journey. Congratulations!
Congratulations! Its amazing and sad at the same time. I am wishing you a happy and healthy pregnancy!!!
Always thinking about you guys!
Congratulations on your pregnancy! This is wonderful news. When you blogged about having 20 vials of blood drawn, as a doctor, I had my suspicions. I hope you have a healthy, eventful pregnancy – I’m sure Maddie will be watching over you.
.-= Lori´s last blog ..Down With Computers! Up With Typewriters! =-.
My monday is now happy!
That is wonderful news.
.-= WM´s last blog ..They’re lucky I even have pants on =-.
I am so very happy for you. Sending you lots of prayers for a healthy, full-term pregnancy. Hugs.
.-= * TONYA *´s last blog ..WEEKLY WINNERS =-.
Congratulations and very best wishes for a healthy pregnancy!
Oh, I am so happy for you both. What joy and unbelievable pain every day. All my wishes and love for a healthy, safe pregnancy. Baby Binky will know Maddie through you and your stories. Your family is amazing!
.-= anymommy´s last blog ..A Friend Indeed =-.
Oh Heather and Mike I’m so happy for you both! This is such a bittersweet announcement. Maddie will never be forgotten and will be loved everyday. The new little Spohr will have hundreds if not thousands of friends to tell them about their big sister and how she touched so many lives. I look forward to sharing my
memories of Maddie with the little one. all my love to you guys today tomorrow and always! Sending tons of postive thoughts and prayers!
I feel happy for you and Mike. I can only imagine how hard it must be to feel joyful at this point in time. The loss of Maddie still being so terribly fresh… but it is so wonderful to think of the joy that a new tiny Sphor will bring. Maddie will never be replaced, that is for certain. A new person will just bring more love in to your world…Congratulations to you!
Happy tears, sad tears and so many prayers for a healthy pregnancy, birth and beautiful baby.
.-= Allie´s last blog ..Letter of The Week H ! =-.
Congratulations. I wish you a healthy and safe prgnancy, and will be praying for you and your family.
Congratulations!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
crying tears of joy for you!
I literally jumped out of my seat while reading this, internet ‘friend’ I am so happy today.
bless you!
So happy for you. Im sure there are mixed emotions but I will be sending good vibes your way daily. (more than usual)
.-= Angie´s last blog ..MINE =-.
Please do not worry about what other people think. This is a miracle and you should not have to worry about what others think. Congrats!! You and Mike are in my thoughts and prayers for a healthy pregnancy and baby!!! Maddie will be looking down on him/her!
.-= Danielle´s last blog ..Growing Up Way Too Fast =-.
Congratulations! A new life is a blessing and a miracle. Something tells me Maddie is watching over you all. I will keep you in my prayers.
Mike and Heather-
I have never commented before, but I have to let you know that I am here and I am praying SO HARD for you. I am an LA-area peep and I wish you all the blessings in the world.
Love,
Caren
Heather this is fabulous, fabulous news. Now you will have two children! I am so excited to read this and truth be told, a tiny part of me wondered if you might be pregnant because you were alluding to a lot of doctor appointments a few weeks ago.
Jan/Feb is a great time to have a baby — I have had one in each month!
Congrats, my friend. I am so happy for you both!
.-= Mr Lady´s last blog ..We Interrupt This Regularly Scheduled Hiatus For A Bit Of Regularly Scheduled News =-.
I am not someone who likes to comment, even on my good friends’ blogs. I read this post this morning and thought I just had to. I’ve been waiting for this post. I don’t even know anything about you except for what I read on your blog, yet I couldn’t be happier for you.
What I have been wanting to write to you for a while is Thanks. Thanks for making me a better mom. Thanks for making me appreciate my own children more. I stay at home right now, but always fight with the idea of going back to work or doing something “else.” I feel that through your posts I understand that things can change in an instant and to enjoy each moment. I’m not a writer, so I know this comment isn’t doing justice to how I feel and what I want to say. But, at least I finally left a comment on a post that puts a huge smile on my face! Congrats Heather. You deserve the best and this little girl or boy (I think it will be a girl) is going to have the best mom. Lucky kid!
I think that you probably should name the baby “Aunt Becky.” Just because, you know, it’s a rockin’ name.
.-= Becky´s last blog ..The Great Purge Fest of ‘Aught Nine =-.
Mazel Tov on the multiplying new. May your precious angel Maddie watch over her sibling until you have him/her in your arms.
Delurking to say Congratulations! What a blessing and yet trying time. So excited to hear about this journey and praying for a complication free pregnancy and delivery!
Can’t stop smiling as I think of you and Mike and Maddie. What a joyous day!
.-= Mrs. Cline´s last blog ..9 weeks! =-.
I have lurked and read your site for months now, but never felt my comments would be worth much. I’m another LA mommy, and we’re the same age (I’ll be 30 in november…yikes.)
and I can’t believe how deeply your Maddie has touched my heart. Such a breathtakingly beautiful, radiant shining light, that girl! My 3rd child was a preemie and in and out of NICUs and PICUs for the first two years of his life and there were many scary moments. I think the ones who fought so hard just to stay alive at birth have something extra special about them!
I heard of your story through a mom’s group and was instantly captivated by Maddie. I have four little ones of my own (we’re nuts
I’m totally rambling, but just had to express my excitement for you and say congratulations on this new baby. I’m excited to read about your progress! I know it will all be bittersweet, but what a lucky little baby to have their big sister always watching over them!
-Michelle
P.S. I had a “Maddie-moment” this weekend. I was at my daughter’s dance recital and all of a sudden the “Single Ladies” song came on and my little toddler niece started bustin’ a move next to me in the seats and I was just struck with a sadness for the loss of your sweet girl. Know that she will never be forgotten!
WOW. Congratulations!! I will be praying for you to have a healthy and complication free pregnancy.
*hugs*
.-= churchpunkmom´s last blog ..My husband likes to try and embarrass me in front of famous people, but I don’t care. EMERY!!! =-.
Some good amongst the bad, hard times. Great news! Congrats!
This made me cry, but it was a good cry. I’m very happy for you and wish you all the best with this pregnancy.
.-= Pattie´s last blog ..Photoblogging: The East Tennessee Veterans Memorial =-.
Absolutely the best of wishes to you and mike. Hoping for a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. My thoughts and prayers are with you guys and I know that Maddie is looking over you both.
Loural
I am over the moon happy for you and Mike! I realize the conflict of emotions must be mind-blowing – incredible – but this is such a blessing and such wonderful news. Maddie knows this baby better than you guys do. I’m sure they are together now and she’s telling them what great parents they share.
.-= Amy @ Milk Breath & Margaritas´s last blog ..The Best Cake Ever with Homemade Icing & Berries on Top =-.
So many hugs – congratulations. Sending you lots of healthy pregnancy energy and prayers.
.-= ExtraordinaryMommy´s last blog ..The smile I need =-.
wow. wow. wow.
I can’t wait to hug both of you. I am thinking of you!
.-= ali´s last blog ..This is the most magnificent discarded living room set I’ve ever seen =-.
This is terrific news but I am sure bittersweet for you and your husband. I can’t imagine anyone ever thinking you are “over” Maddie not being with you. That would be just plain ignorant. Congratulations – I am sincerely excited for you!
.-= Shirley´s last blog ..How Random Can I Be? =-.
Congratulations, Heather. What wonderful news!
I continue to be both humbled and inspired by the grace with which you’ve handled Maddie’s loss and all that has followed. I look forward to watching you go through this adventure with the same amazing spirit and wish you and Mike nothing but the best.
.-= Jennifer´s last blog ..Thanks, Kenny B =-.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family!
Just wanted to share my happiness with you. I am so glad for you guys and wish you nothing but the best. I’m sure Maddie is looking out for her new brother or sister from up above. You and Binky and Mike will be in my thoughts! AHHH SO HAPPY FOR YOU GUYS!
In the wake of extraordinary tragedy comes extraordinary hope. The healing from one and the growth of the other are not mutually exclusive.
Someone above mentioned that they believe Maddie is getting to know Binky right now. I believe the same!
Congratulations to you and Mike.
Beautifully said Moxie! WOW!
Somehow congrats doesn’t seem to cover it. So, so, happy for you two. I cannot wait to read more about Binky!
.-= avasmommy´s last blog ..There’s Something About the Internet =-.
Heather….
we all know nothing will replace Maddie or your love for Maddie!
You amazing and you deserve this to be perfect! You are in my prayers!!!!!!!! I’m so excited for you!!!!
I SO totally knew it
Congratulations and best wishes for a wonderful pregnancy. Maddie will always be in our hearts and I’m more that certain this is her way of sending you some love….from above 
.-= m a m a j o s s´s last blog ..My weekend in numbers =-.
congrats on a the new addition. you will be in our thoughts and prayers
Congrats!! Oh goodness I am so happy for you guys. You could sure use a little happy in your life right now and you deserve it. My fingers will be crossed and you will be in my prayers that everything continues along as healthy and easy as possible. {{hugs}}
.-= Crystal D´s last blog ..Dolphin Tour – Vacation 09 Part 2 =-.
If it’s possible, my heart aches for you a little more, even as I’m indescribably happy for you guys. I hope that makes sense and doesn’t sound creepy. Even when it feels like the end of the world, life continues to go on. I will continue to send you waves of love and support from Chicago and can’t wait to continue sharing your journey from afar
.-= Kristi of Million Dream Mom´s last blog ..south beach =-.
What lovely news.
I understand your fears about what this news will mean to the memory of Maddie. I hope you know that you have imprinted Maddie and her beautiful spirit on so many people that this is never possible. The way you have been so honest and open about your grief means we will always know that your love for her will never diminish – no matter how many siblings she has.
I do hope that you allow yourself some hope and joy as your pregnancy progresses.
Thinking of you and Mike.
.-= Joy´s last blog ..Girl Power! =-.
You are both such wonderful parents I am thrilled that you’ll have another baby to raise with your love and humor.
I will pray daily that you are given a break and have a wonderfully easy pregnancy and healthy baby in your arms in January. I know how hard it is to enjoy a pregnancy when you’ve been through hell in the past. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Lyndsey
I am SO happy for you. Anyone with a heart knows this little one doesn’t replace Maddie.
I really like what Amy said above, about Maddie knowing this baby so well already. That makes sense, to me. This little soul knows his or her big sister already.
I’m so emotional reading this post that I can only begin to imagine how you two feel, but I will be praying for you, sending you strength, thinking of you, and pulling for you.
.-= Jen @ Diagnosis: Urine´s last blog ..i discover i am clairvoyant when i accurately predict the ending of "titanic" =-.
I literally have goosebumps. I am thrilled for you and Mike and I’ll be keeping you in my thoughts and prayers hoping for a healthy pregnancy and an easy birth. Lord knows you’ve earned it.
I hope Binky has Maddie’s excellent taste in music and awesome ability to bust a move.
.-= Michelle´s last blog ..Withdrawal =-.
Congratulations!! I’ve been reading your blog after being directed to your site from Matt and Maddie. I was so sad when Maddie passed. Sounds like Maddie is really looking over you both by blessing you with a baby. You are Mike are such great parents and you really deserve this. No one will ever forget Maddie….how could anyone EVER forget such an exceptional little being? Hope today is a good day for you.
Congrats again.
Laurie
Congratulations, Mike & Heather. I’m so happy for you both and hope that this pregnancy goes super smoothly. And anyone who thinks that this new baby makes Maddie’s passing o.k. somehow, well… that’s just ridiculous. No child could ever replace another, but I’m certain Binky will be watched over well by his/her big sis. Congrats again!
.-= Kelly´s last blog ..Technically, he’s right. =-.
Congratulations! We all know that you can NEVER replace Maddie! I will continue to keep your family in my thoughts. I’m sure this is quite bittersweet for you all.
.-= Amanda´s last blog ..Good intentions =-.
Heather,
You, Mike, Maddie and now Binky have touched so many lives. All these good thoughts are being sent your way. I will keep all four of you in my prayers.
CONGRATULATIONS!!!
And though its bittersweet, it’s still a wonderful thing. I know you’ll always miss and love Maddie, but I think she’s probably very excited for you.
.-= Just Jiff´s last blog .. =-.
Heather,
I read your site daily, although you don’t know who I am. I cry for you, with you. I found out about your blog from Matts blog which also touches my heart. While his plight is heartbreaking…it is yours that breaks my heart. I am a mom. I’ve had the experience of watching my son die in front of me (drowned). I watched him get CPR and thankfully, I watched him come back. I never say things like “it is the worst thing that can happen” because I’ve seen what the worst thing looks like…although for some reason Tyler got to live and your precious, beautiful daughter got wings. It is because I’ve seen what I have, that your blog leaves me breathless…..I don’t know how you have made it. I know the writing helps and putting the thoughts out there. For me, if my story had ended as yours had, I had two other children who I would have had to fight to stay alive for….and today, your news has told me your answer. You have made it, survived the last 3 months of hell on earth, of missing that precious baby with eyes as bright as the sunny sky so that you can survive for HER little sister or brother! You didn’t know it, but you too, had a reason to survive. This baby will never ever replace Maddie’s spot in your heart. If anyone ever suggests such a thing, they are crazy….but this baby is Maddie’s sister or brother and you will keep her alive in their heart. You will survive and go on so that you may share the story of your oldest child. She may not be physically here, but she is still your first, your oldest baby daughter. So while you will be sad in a way if baby has her smile or eyes or personality, you will also get to rejoice that s/he is like big sissy. I am not a prayerful person, but I do believe in spirits and of energy that stays behind when our loved ones leave this earth. I wouldn’t be surprised if the baby has a special toddling friend for life. After our accident, we chose to expand our family. Shortly before, I lost my grandpa whom I adored….my son was born on 11-18-07 and he is a spitting image of the old guy and you wonder if it could possibly be….. We’ll never know, but I love the similarities and you will too. Sometimes they will cut you and sometimes your smile won’t be able to wipe away, but this is a precious gift you are carrying. I wish you an uneventful, full term pregnancy! I’m also a preemie mom/nicu mom and love your organization. I’ve donated a bag and I’m going to spam the world to donate! Such a thoughtful thing to do! I know your blog is your outlet, but if you ever want to talk, birds4u2love@yahoo.com I am here for you, with you!
So happy for your family addition.
Angela
Congratulations! I don’t even know you but I’m so happy for you. I can’t wait to see what this little one looks like. Maddie was one of the most beautiful babies I’ve ever seen (3rd place behind my two
). I’ll pray every day that you have a healthy, full term pregnancy and a very healthy baby.
So, so happy for you Heather. I know (except I don’t of course) it must be so bittersweet. My prayers are with you for a long healthy pregnancy. Maddie is surely looking down on all three of you and is so excited too.
It’s so hard to say the right thing. I want to scream and yell congratulations and happy healthy baby vibes and all the wonderful things that are completely and utterly in order, but I can only guess at the emotional turmoil that this has put you in.
But I can’t help it: CONGRATULATIONS! Maddie would have been the best big sister ever.
.-= Jessica (@It’s my life…)´s last blog ..The lump on my baby’s head =-.
Congratulations, Heather! I know that it must be very bittersweet but you and Mike are such good parents and I’m so glad that you are having another child. I will be praying for you throughout this whole pregnancy.
Wow!!! Congratulations Mike and Heather!
You are in my thoughts and prayers. I wish you the healthiest pregnancy…you deserve it. No one will ever think you guys are “over it” or “better”, or that you are replacing Maddie. You two have just experienced the most painful loss imaginable, and you daughter is irreplaceable.
You just made me cry!
I am so happy for you guys…to have a little sunshine must be wonderful. Congratulations.
.-= Amanda´s last blog ..Border Crossing 101 =-.
Congratulations on your pregnancy. I know it has to be bittersweet for you.
All my best to you and your family.
Maddie will watch over Binky and all will be well.
We are so, so happy for you guys! I can only imagine how a mixture of emotions can damper the joy that a new baby brings, but I wish nothing but the best for you, Mike, Maddie & Baby Binky!
Such wonderfully exciting news for you and Mike. I don’t doubt for one second that you have terribly mixed emotions. Please know that your family is always in my thoughts and prayers. Who better to bring another child into this world than someone that knows (all too well) how incredibly precious every second of our lives is – this is a very lucky little baby!! Wishing you all the happiness in the world. (((HUGS)))
I will be keeping you in my thoughts and prayers for a healthy full term pregnancy. The baby will never replace Maddie but I am happy for you.
I’m so happy for you, and I’m glad that you are with doctors you trust. Best wishes to all of you.
p.s. I know injecting Lovenox is a pain–I found that an icepack was great at times.
Congratulations on your newest miracle. Maddie will always be a part of your lives, and her younger brother or sister will never doubt how special Maddie is. You will never be “better” or “over” Maddie, but I hope this new little one eases your pain a little and helps you remember with joy instead of pain.
.-= Angie´s last blog ..Recipe for the Week: July 19–25, 2009 =-.
How ’bout a smoothie instead of that drink I promised you for your birthday?
Congrats to you both. I’ll be praying for continued strength and health-for all 3 of you!
.-= Headless Mom´s last blog ..Wanted: Mojo. Send immediately! =-.
Happiest news ever! Thank you so much for sharing – I wish you a happy and healthy pregnancy and a brand new Baby Spohr to completely dote over and love. SO HAPPY FOR YOU!!!!
Heather,
I am very happy for you and Mike. I know it is probably hard for you to be truly happy after the loss of Maddie. But believe me you will find love for both of your children and you will always keep Maddie close in your heart. I lost my son 13 years ago and still think about him very often. His pictures still hang on the wall with my other children. He is a forever part of our family and our lives. I wish you all the best during your pregnancy. I know it will not be easy. I have had very rough pregnancies, a preemie born 11 weeks early, a miscarriage at 3 months and I lost a baby shortly after birth, and two very high risk pregnancy, so I know just getting pregnant is no guarantee. But I have been blessed with 3 healthy children. My little preemie is almost 18 years old 6 feet tall and almost 200 pounds. My daughters are 12 years and 5 years old. I will keep you in my prayers. All my best to you, Mike and your puppy Rigby. Kate (A faithful follower in Texas.) PS: I think of your beautiful Maddie often and what a wonderful mark she left on this world during her short time. She is Truly a Blessing.
Congratulations to you and Mike. May you find joy and happiness as the days progress….even though you will always have that emptiness w/o Maddie…..may you be able to fill some of it with joy with this new life you have been given. Hugs, d
I’m so happy for you, Heather! My friends and I in Bakersfield, CA walked for Maddie in the March for Babies so you and Mike are always in our hearts. We are all praying for a happy and healthy pregnancy for you. I know you must be feeling so many different emotions right now and we know that this baby will never replace Madeline, but we hope that he/she will be able to bring some happiness into your lives again. We all love you!!!
Congratulations, Heather. I’m so happy for you guys to add to your family, and so sad that your babies will not be here together. Wishing you and the bump excellent health.
My BlogHer pedicure was intended to be purple in honor of your Maddie, but when I came home yesterday, my daughter reported that it is black.
I am in tears, I am so filled with joy for you. I come from a family where we lost 4 out of 10 children. Believe me, they are never forgotten and still very much part of our family. Enjoy your pregnancy, feel the love that is growing and I will send prayers your way every day! Your new baby in progress already has their very own guardian angel
Congratulations! What wonderful news. This new little one is going to be such a wonderful addition to your family.
.-= Lynn @ Walking With Scissors´s last blog ..Hard Time & Nursery Rhymes (A Review) =-.
“long time reader, first time commenter.”
I am so so so happy for you and Mike. I have been following in your ups and downs and wondering how the heck you have managed to make it through some days.
I have no doubt that on a deeper level Maddie will in fact know her brother or sister. they may never play in a sand box together but between the memories you and Mike are so kind to share with your readers, and your love as a family, Maddie will always be a part of this child’s life.
I am not a big prayer person but for this I will definitely make an extra effort. For a safe pregnancy and delivery, a contiually successful and happy marriage, and a beautiful, healthy baby boy or girl.
xoxo
Heather,
I discovered your blog the day Maddie died through several other mommy bloggers I follow. I have faithfully read about your journey since that day, and the way you have so eloquently described your experiences has often brought tears to my eyes. I cannot imagine the wave of emotions you are going through now with this new pregnancy, but please know that there will be at least one more person out there praying for the safe arrival of Maddie’s little brother or sister.
.-= Sara´s last blog ..Brothers =-.
Congratulations to the Spohr Family!
.-= lindsaywillman´s last blog ..Sunday Night Scare =-.
What a wonderful and sad (probably not the right word) experience all at the same time. Madeline sent an angel from Heaven for you. I will pray for you.
A million different crazy emotions, but most of all, just love…for you, Mike, Maddie, AND Binky.
.-= Insta-Mom´s last blog ..Grace =-.
I think Maddie and Binky know each other very well! It is us here on earth who just don’t get it.
Stories, memories and pictures will give Binky an earthly connection to your angel!
Congratulations and enjoy every second of this baby.
http://randommusingsfrommypov.com
.-= kay´s last blog .. =-.
My heart is full of joy for you both — and for my ongoing love for the remarkable Maddie!
Wow. I can’t even imagine the emotions you are feeling, but I am so happy for you. Binky has one heck of a guardian angel of a big sister in Maddie watching over him/her.
.-= Kristin´s last blog ..Conference Call =-.
I can’t imagine the mixture of emotions you and your DH are going through. But know there is a whole of support out here for you. Whether these are feeling of joy and triumph or of fear and sadness, there are many who love and care for you both. Bg hugs!
.-= Kekibird´s last blog ..Me: Un-Plugged =-.
Wow. This post definitely made me tear up. I can only imagine how bittersweet this must be for you. We will never forget about Maddie and KNOW you haven’t either…obviously.
Congratulations!!!! This is excellent news. I will be praying for you. Know that your binky has a special angel watching over. The sweetest most beautiful angel anyone could imagine.
Hugs!!
.-= Candice´s last blog ..Not My Child Monday =-.
Oh my goodness! What happy and joyous news this is! Your little Binky is so unbelievably lucky to have you and Mike as parents and beautiful Maddie to call a sister. Maddie’s light and life will shine through in all you do for your new little one and that is so beautiful.
Best wishes for a SAFE and HEALTHY pregnancy, you are always on my mind.
**Hurray I am so excited for you!!**
.-= Effie´s last blog ..Best Friends =-.
I couldn’t agree more with the comments that this baby is hand-picked by Maddie! Congrats! I know Maddie is holding on tight to little Binky to make sure that he or she experiences all the love and happiness from two of the greatest parents life has to offer. Now I must go and call my hubby and share the great news!
.-= Michelle Pixie´s last blog ..Feather Toes =-.
Sending you love and well wishes. You’re little Binky is in my thoughts and prayers. Thinking of you and Mike and Maddie often.
I’m so happy for you both! If there is anything you need, don’t hesitate to ask.
I hope many good things come out of this pregnancy for you…but most especially…a healthy baby.
Thinking of you….
Congratulations! It was so nice to cry happy tears again while reading one of your posts!
.-= Anne´s last blog ..You Can Help =-.
CONGRATULATIONS
I am so happy for you and Mike !!
Congrats Heather! I read your blog everyday and I’m so happy for you guys! None of us will ever forget Maddie, no matter how many kids you have!
.-= Amber´s last blog ..world ebook fair: free music files =-.
Congrats! I know Maddie will be watching over her new sibling whenever he/she arrives, safe and sound
Oh Heather!
What terrific news! As usual, I got teary-eyed but this time it was tears of joy for you and Mike.
I’m sure your emotions have run the all over the place! Maddie will always be a part of your family and your first-born, you have documented her life in way that will be so appreciated by Binky and any other siblings she may have. You are not replacing Maddie – I cannot believe anyone could even imagine such a thing!
Keep your inspirational outlook…I’m praying for you and Mike!
I don’t know if you read the mclenahan’s blog – their daughter Cora Paige had a short tragic life as well and they are expecting too….close to the same time I believe. She may be a good support system for you and Mike….and you for her and her husband!
I only wish you happiness, joy and great health with your pregnancy. I know that is hard to imagine with your sweet Maddie gone….I’m am so sorry for that.
You will continue to be in my prayers….
Love & Hugs,
Michelle – Herculaneum, MO
Congratulations, Heather and Mike! I’ll be praying for you and Binky and hope your pregnancy is uneventful.
Heather and Mike,
Congratulations on the wonderful news that your family is multiplying. I agree that Binky will have an angel watching him/her grow. Love and hugs and prayers for your family.
.-= Kristin´s last blog ..Update…finally =-.
Wow! Congratultions to you and Mike. I know maddie woud of been excited over the new baby..And boy I bet the emotions are going threw your head like crazy. :0 I will keep you all in my prayers for a healthy and happy baby. Hugs to you both.
BIG Congrats Heather and Mike!! Maddie is sending you a gift from heaven. What a joy!! I am so happy for you. What a way to start the new year, Welcome Binky! Much love to your little family. Maddie is pleased.
Heather and Mike,
I have followed your blog silently for a very long time but I wanted to reach out to you both after reading your post. All I can say is congratulations and I am sure Maddie is looking down from above. I will be praying for you all.
Love,
Erin
.-= Erin´s last blog ..7 Months Old =-.
I’m a lurker – have never commented but I’ve been following your blog for months now after finding it via Matts, but I have to say CONGRATS!!!! I think this is awesome news and I can’t wait to hear all about S/he!!
Congratulations! I know that it’s a whole mixed bag of emotions. But Binky sure as a lot of love ready to be aimed at him or her!
.-= Michele´s last blog ..What I Am Doing Instead of BlogHer =-.
Big congratulations – wishing you a healthy 9 months!
.-= Katie´s last blog ..Fertility Treatments: Not a black and white issue. =-.
oh, so happy for you. sending you good vibes. sooo happy for you.
.-= Yo is Me´s last blog ..have you ever needed a nudge? =-.
Oh oh oh I am so happpy for you. Maddie has already given her new brother or sister a gift of experienced parents who will so understand the gift of life. The new baby will help keep his or her sister’s memory alive and will of course give you a new focus to your life that you deserve. But there will never be a replacement for your wonderful Maddie. And no one who has any intellgence thinks you will ever be “over” what happened to her.
Whoa! I am pregnant too! I think I got pregnant in May so we’ll see, I will be following your blog eve more closely now! Congrats, one day at a time!
.-= Vanessa´s last blog ..Vida: 15 months today =-.
Oh, and I’ll drink for you, too. You crazy sober growing-a-baby bitch, you. Congrats!!!!
XO
.-= Mrs. Flinger´s last blog ..Five Reasons You Will Not Be A Dork At BlogHer (so stop worrying about it) =-.
All the happiness in the world to you and your family.
I am sure Maddie is watching over Binky.
Congrats!
CONGRATS! I’m so happy for you and the whole extended family. A baby! I love BABIES. My only baby is 15 years old now and away at camp for a month. I wish I’d had a dozen babies!
CONGRATS!
Heather,
Long time reader…first time poster….when I read this post…the first thing that came to my mind was a prayer used at the closing of Lutheran church services.
“May The Lord bless you and keep you.
May the Lord make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you.
May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace.”
I’ve no idea why this is the first thing that came to my mind…I’m FAR removed from the church of my youth. But I hope more than anything that you are able to find “peace”. Peace in knowing you loved Maddie more than everything. Peace in knowing you’ll love this child just as much.
Congratulations!! Praying for a healthy pregnancy and baby.
I know Maddie will be watching over her baby sister or brother for you. She will be an incredible big sister even though she isn’t here for you to hold. I can see her big smile even now.
Wow…what a miracle. But – even though my story is different (I lost my twins at 22 weeks 5 years ago) – I do know some of the feelings, the mixed blessings, the joy and sorrow all rolled into one, of knowing your family is forever incomplete.
Praying for your hearts and minds…and always, always remembering Maddie!
.-= Julie´s last blog ..Time with Cousins =-.
You already know what I want to say.
Blessings on your family.
Big, big love.<3
Heather & Mike, CONGRATULATIONS!!! Heather I know that Maddie is gonna watch over you and the baby everyday! I like to think my son Connor watched over his twin sister Claire too and she is 14 months old now. Please keep us posted on how you are doing and know that you are being thought of and prayed for constantly. I know you have a mix of emotions right now and know that we are all here with you, but no one more than Maddie!
Thanks for your blog and all you do to support us too! HUGS!
AMAZING.
.-= Lindsey´s last blog ..The List =-.
So happy for all of you! What a blessing! Happy and healthy 9 months for you!!
Congratulations, that is so wonderful! I am so very happy for you!
i’ve silently followed your heartbreaking journey for months . . . this is such an amazing blessing for you and your husband. congratulations! i am thrilled for you!
.-= laura in north carolina´s last blog ..iMovie: reunited…and it feels so good! =-.
So very happy for you! I’m due at just the same time as you (around Feb 5th) and I’ll be thinking of you along the way!
I know what an emotional time pregnancy can be and I can not even imagine the added emotions that dealing with the loss of your little one must have added. Stay strong for your baby inside. One day, he or she will love to hear all of your sweet stories about Maddie, their amazing and kind big sister.
Congratulations to both of you. Praying for healthy mama, baby and family.
.-= jana´s last blog ..Voice =-.
Congratulations! We’ll be thinking of and praying for you!
Congratulations on your pregnancy! I will be thinking of you along the way as I am due in January (the 19th, too. I will be praying that you have a healthy pregnancy and safe delivery for Binky. S/he will be very much loved and will love to hear precious stories of his/her sibling Maddie.
.-= Amy´s last blog ..Rough Week =-.
Congrats, I am so happy for you both. This new little addition wont ever take Maddie’s place but I am sure he or she will be loved just as much. Please keep us posted, I am so excitted for you both
CONGRATULATIONS! I hope everything goes smoothly!
.-= Jamie´s last blog ..Dear So-And-So… =-.
Congratulations!! I will be adding to all these positive, healthy thoughts, vibes, prayers.
What amazing news for a Monday morning! I was literally as excited to read this as if you were my friend IRL and called me on the phone to tell me the news. I immediately turned to my husband and exclaimed “Oh wow. That blogger is pregnant!” He said, “Who?” (I just didn’t think he’d remember–silly me.) I said, “Maddie’s Mom.” Then he smiled and said “That’s great” because of course he knows all the details. You’re much more than a blogger in our house.
I imagine it’s incredibly hard to balance emotions of sadness with those of cautious excitement. I, for one, would never assume that you’re over Maddie. I know her absence will always be felt.
But, I’m also so excited for you and Mike and am sending positive vibes for a healthy pregnancy. Can’t wait to go along with you on this journey. Take care of yourself, Momma.
I sure hope our paths cross at BlogHer. It would be so great to meet you.
.-= Jennifer´s last blog ..Family planning… =-.
VEry thriled for you!! But–also sad. What a wonderful big sis Maddie would have made. I wish you the best of luck in this new exciting adventure! It sounds like you are in the best of hands and certainly have tons of love and support. Jen
I know I’m just repeating what hundreds before me have said, but again best wishes & congratulations. You know the power of Maddie & all her internet friends are behind y’all!
.-= Daisy´s last blog ..Curl Up With A Good Book =-.
Congratulations! I’m so happy for y’all. Sending tons of hopes and prayers for a safe and healthy pregnancy. So excited to follow along as Binky develops.
So I opened up my reader this morning and was reading through stuff when I realized that “The Spohrs Are Multiplying” was not just the name of your feed, but your TITLE!
Congratulations, Heather and Mike! I’m sure it’s bittersweet and fraught with anxiety.
You will have a healthy pregnancy. Everyone is sending you healthy, sticky baby vibes.
And, of course, you will never be “over” Maddie. Anyone who thinks you are (or should be) is insane. She will never, ever be forgotten. Her brother or sister will always how much she means to so many people.
.-= Alicia´s last blog ..best in show: week of july 13th =-.
Just reaching out to say congratulations. This probably feels bittersweet. Maddie will always be with your family, always be a member of your family and I would bet is going to be the guardian angel of her sibling-to-come. Best of wishes!
a million congratulations!
here’s to a healthy, happy pregnancy. my thoughts are with you <3
Wow! What FANTASTIC news! So very happy for you all ~ wishing nothing but the best for you!
xoxo
.-= darcie´s last blog ..4th of July ~ =-.
shots in the tummy…no fun, but worth it.
sending you prayers and good vibes.
Heather – I’ve been a lurker here on your blog ever since I read about the loss of your Maddie from Matt Logelin; however today I just had to comment and tell you congratulations. I can only imagine (not have children of my own) all the emotions that you and Mike are experiencing…and I don’t even know what to say, really, except that there are people who care about you from far away that are sending you all the best vibes possible.
Congratulations and best of luck – I’ll be thinking of you and sending “white light” to your little life. Sister Maddie has her eye on things, don’t you worry!
Oh my gosh. Oh my gosh. Congratulations. I’m at my desk bawling, again, and this time there are feelings of gratitute and happiness tinged with my sadness over Maddie. Maddie and her little sister or brother are spending time together now. And they will ALWAYS be the best of friends. Even if they’re seperated from each other for just a little while. You’ll be with her again. And so with the new spud. She would want you to be happy. You would want it for her. She will NEVER leave our thoughts or hearts. Ever. And I hope very much one day to meet her, as I feel that I already know here. She’s a blessed little spirit who has changed so many of our lives for the better. One of God’s most treasured and loving angels.
Oh I’m so happy for you. I really am. Very special and lucky spirits get to come to the Spohr home. Spud will be no different.
Much love.
Jess
I don”t think I have ever posted here before but I check on you often…I can’t think of a better occasion to stop lurking! Congratulations…I am praying everything goes as smoothly as possible and Binky is a healthy, happy, full term baby! I know he or she will grow up knowing and loving his or her big sister just as I know there will always be an empty spot in your family, but it is a small heart that can love only one child and it is abundantly clear that you and your husband have very big hearts!
Oh I am so happy for you. I am sure that Maddie is jumping up and down with joy, and watching over baby Binky!!!!
wow that is amazing! Congrats to the both of you! I am sure that Maddie is watching over you from heaven grinning from ear to ear!
.-= paula´s last blog ..TOYS! =-.
Dear Heather,
This is my first time posting on your blog.
My husband and I are basically the same ages as you and Mike, and we live in the same area, and have a lot of the same shared experiences around L.A. as you guys. So I’ve always been able to relate to you and did not feel the long distance of cyberspace because, well, I’m sure we’ve probably passed each other in the grocery store every now and again. So even though I clearly do not know you IRL, I do feel like I “know” you.
But I’ve never been able to relate to the loss of your beautiful, precious Madeline. I could only imagine the searing pain you have suffered. Because we do not have children. My husband and I have tried to conceive (unsuccessfully) for almost 2 years now, and the doctors don’t know why.
I can only tell you that whenever somebody I know announces their pregnancy, I feel like I’ve been kicked in the gut with the wind knocked out of me. It really, really hurts.
However, when I read your post today, I was so happy for you. So, so happy.
I wish nothing more than the healthiest, happiest pregnancy for you. I am so glad that Maddie will soon have a little sister or brother. I know he / she will be as exquisitely beautiful as their big sis.
Much love,
“Mangopuppy”
P.S. — I’m not spiritual or religious in any sense, but I wonder if dear, sweet Madeline has sent Binky to you, the same way she blew kisses…
Beautiful post….I applaud you for posting it, and am sorry for your tough times.
Mangopuppy, what beautiful words. I really hope that one day you are announcing the news to your friends.
.-= eden´s last blog ..Each Day a New Beginning =-.
I’m so happy for you. From what I’ve read on your site, you are both great parents and if you love this child half as much as you loved Your Maddie then this he/she is going to have the grandest of lives! Congratulations!
Congratulations to you and Mike . I know Maddie is looking down on you all and to her baby Binky. This baby will be loved just as much as Maddie was and will be a great legacy. Binky is a very lucky baby to have had Maddie as a big sibling even though she is no longer here. Her spirit will live on. Best of luck to your whole family.
So happy for you. Sending you warm thoughts and prayers for a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. I hope caring for a new baby can ease a tiny portion of your pain and saddness over losing Maddie. God bless !
Congratulations…I pray for a peaceful (as peaceful as it can be w/ all your appts. etc.) pregnancy. I, for one, would never think that this baby will make you better or make you “get over” (impossible) your dear Maddie. I can’t even comprehend the different emotions that you both must be feeling. I’m weepy right now just thinking about it. I look forward to following you in your journey and I bet your dear Maddie is smiling her famous smile down on you.
Please keep us posted, I continue to pray for you and now for your newest blessing.
The first half of this year brought too many heart-breaking stories but suddenly the tides seem to be turning! I can only imagine the rollercoaster of emotions you must be feeling but I hope the highs will carry you through the lows.. Wonderful news. Sincere congratulations to you and Mike. Sounds like it was meant to be..
.-= binkytowne´s last blog ..Vacation, All I Ever Wanted =-.
Congratulations Heather & Mike!!!
I’m so happy for you both.
And no one who’s sane will think that you’re “over” Maddie simply because you are having another child.
I wish you a awesomely healthy pregnancy with this gift, I believe, sent from Maddie and the Heavens.
WOW! Congratulations! I know this all must be very overwhleming. Praying for you and your family always.
.-= Heather @ CSAHM´s last blog ..Crafts: How to Make a Seashell Candle =-.
That’s lovely news indeed, Heather. Many congratulations to you both!
.-= Hairy Farmer Family´s last blog ..Confirmation =-.
Congrats to you both! I hope you have a completely uneventful and boringly wonderful pregnancy!
Heather, you are so good and writing about difficult thoughts and emotions. You can take feelings tht most of us can’t describe and and give thm .words That is such a gift.
I’m so glad you two are multiplying. I’m looking forward to sharing it with you. Don’t worry tho’, sweet Maddie will not be forgotten by your stranger/friends either.
Congratulations! I am so happy for you all.
.-= stacie´s last blog ..Because I Am a Freak =-.
Congratulations! Binky will have the best big sister always looking out for him/her from above.
I will pray for you to have a healthy pregnancy. Just because a new life is beginning, does not mean Maddie’s life will be forgotten. She will always be in our hearts.
Congratulations again!
Congratulations! I am sure that Maddie is similing on you from heaven and she will be a part of her sibling
s life, as Iam sure you will make sure. You are almost through with your first trimester so that is good and Iam so gald to hear that the doctors are being so careful this time. I have always followed but now feel even closer as we are due the same week. Again, congratulations!
Wow. Life is just crazy, isn’t it? I can’t imagine, dealing with this all at once…losing Maddie, and the preganancy, and all of it mixed up together. I don’t think the universe could have dreamt up a more intense few months.
Biggest congratulations to you EVER, and all my best thoughts for a totally uneventful pregnancy. You, sweet Heather, have filled your quota for pregnancy stress.
So excited about the charity, by the way! I’m still available to help however I can!
What an emotional roller coaster you have been on. Congrats on the baby!
People always think and say the dumbest things about loved ones we have lost, but you and all the Friends of Maddie know that she will always be in your hearts and lives. Binky will always have his/her angel and big sister.
.-= Jewels´s last blog ..Sleeping Beauty =-.
I am bawling. I am so so happy for your family Heather. I am praying for an uneventful, healthy and happy pregnancy for y’all. I bet Maddie is smiling down on you and is happy too.
Aww congratulations guys – I am so happy for you. I hope that this pregnancy gives you guys some hope of happiness again in the future. I know you will do a great job of ensuring that Maddie’s spirit lives on and that her sibling knows her well. Thinking of you guys and praying daily . . .
I wish you much health and healing this year! You are all in my prayers daily! Wishing you all of the best!
Isn’t it weird that I had a feeling you might be. A baby will never ever replace Maddie but definitely helps in the healing. I’m soooo excited for you and send you best wishes for a healthy and easy pregnancy.
Heather I am so happy for you and Mike!
What wonderful and crazy and amazing news. Congratulations. We will be reading and with you as you navigate the complicated nature of this stuff.
.-= bri´s last blog ..things you might want to know if you are meeting me in person (including my name) =-.
i can’t imagine the completely different waves of emotions you have gone and are going through.
i wish for you a safe “normal” pregnancy and a healthy little one that is even 1/10 as happy and amazing as their big sister..
congratulations =)
Faith….Hope….Love….Peace.
.-= mythoughtsonthat´s last blog ..It’s REALLY HOT Here…. =-.
Then the angel looked down….and smiled.
Congrats to you guys.
I am very happy for you too, and think that maybe this is Maddie’s way of trying to tell you how much she loves the both of you.
heather and mike – i am sobbing right now, i am so very happy for you. i have been away from the internet and haven’t been able to check in on your blog, but i think of you both and maddie every day. your blog was the first thing i checked when i sat down to the computer today, and i am thrilled for your news. and i know you will never be over your incredible maddie. i never will be either. she really did change my life. so many congrats to you both. xo
I am absolutely thrilled for you guys. Congratulations!!!
.-= Apple Sauce´s last blog ..They’re so cute when they’re asleep =-.
Binky will be blessed to know the joy his/her sister brought to so many and blessed to have you guys as parents.
Maddie will always be your firstborn, and Binky will bring you joy again.
OMGsh!! I prayed so hard that God would give you and Mike a HEALTHY pregnancy! And like others above have already said, I know for sure that Maddie already knows Binky! She approved and was helpful in sending Binky to you and Mike. God asked Maddie what kind of baby to send to you two, and Maddie helped pick him/her out, I just know it.
I’ve been praying for you since I first started reading your blog which I found through the Flotsamblog. The prayers will continue, and especially now. I pray this pregnancy will go to term and there will be NO problems whatsoever!
I wish you purple butterflies, and lots and lots of love!
congratulations to both of you. I will keep you in my thoughts for a healthy and uneventful pregnancy. I know how nervous you must be. Maddie is with you everyday and will be a part of this child as well. Blessings to you all.
Congratulations! No one who knows you or reads your blog could think that you have forgotten about Maddie. A baby is a miracle and I am so happy for your family.
Congratulations! I will be thinking of you.
Maddie is looking down on you and smiling!
Heather and Mike, congratulations on the baby to come. We all know that just because you have a baby on the way, it doesn’t mean that you are not still hurting immensly or that Maddie will ever be forgotten. It just means that you two are strong and incredibly couregous to put your hearts on the line to love again. It’s very brave of you! Put it all in God’s hands and it will be okay.
God bless you and the little Binky too! XOXO
A big, huge congratulations to the both of you! A baby is ALWAYS a good thing! I imagine it is such a scary and emotional time and I’m so sad that Maddie won’t get the chance to be the amazing big sis I know she would be! She will be watching over you all, no doubt! No one will ever think for a minute that you are moving on. Please know that Maddie is still in all of our hearts and daily thoughts.
I’m wishing you the healthiest pregnancy ever! I will say my prayers for you and your sweet baby.
Congrats to the both of you. How wonderful, and bittersweet. Of course we will support you every step of the way!
I love you!
This is such wonderful news! I am reading this at work with eyes full of happy tears. I echo what everyone has said above — have a healthy, unevenful pregnancy and feel good!!!!!
Maddie will never be forgotten. She has captured the hearts of so many and will always have a place there.
I am not religious, but I do think that Maddie is watching carefully over you and her little brother or sister with her warm, beaming smile.
Congratulations!
.-= Brie´s last blog ..I don’t eat you, why are you getting me sick? =-.
Just wanted to send some stranger hugs and support your way…congratulations on this happy news, even though it is so bittersweet. Still thinking of you and your family….
I have happy tears in my eyes. I wish nothing but the best for you!
This is so wonderful! Congratulations and best wishes to all of you.
.-= Erin´s last blog ..Get Out While the Getting’s Good =-.
Congratulations and may you have a healthy pregnancy and baby. Your love of Maddie (and Maddie’s love) will be a lovely purple thread woven into this, the story of “Binky”.
My heart goes out to you as you have experienced so much in such a short period of time and may all continue to go well for you.
I too like to think that Maddie is up there, conducing interviews to pick the best baby for her dear mommy and daddy.
Congratulations to you 2 and to the big sister. I’ll keep my fingers crossed for a beautiful pregnancy for you Heather
What incredible news. Congratulations to you both. <3 <3 <3
.-= Kellee´s last blog ..AND SHE ENFOLDS HERSELF IN THE PURPLE OF EMPERORS =-.
Congratulations Mike and Heather! That’s great news!
.-= Daddy Dan´s last blog ..I’m a Friend of Maddie =-.
Wow! This is so amazing, and I am happy for your entire family!!
You may not believe the same as I, so please, no offense is meant here. I truly believe that God AND Maddie has a little something to do with this. Maddie is so amazing herself – I think she is still “creating her own little magic” here. She knew you and Mike would be heartbroken. God did too. And although it was Maddie’s time – I think she sent you a gift of love. Binky will always have a very special guardian angel !!!
Binky could never replace Maddie, or replace your grief and pain. But WOW – what a wonderful big sister Binky has to learn about thru your beautiful memories, this blog, and most of all – you and Mike’s love.
This may sound like a bunch of mumbo-jumbo, I just don’t write things so elegantly. I guess I am just trying to say congratulations and that I am happy you have a ray of hope in this very sad time.
Sending you both lots of love, support, and prayers!!!
Oh my word!!
Coming out of lurking again to say congratulations and best wishes!!!
Great big hugs to you and Mike and Maddie and Binky! … My mom used to use the word binky for “pacifier” and I never heard it used other than that before now. Your Binky is so lucky to have such wonderful parents and The Famous Madeline for a big sis. Thank you for sharing this with all of us because it would have been a lot easier to keep it private. … Sending hugs and love you way.
Congratulations! I hope all goes well and happily for everyone. And I hope you can be excited and happy more than you are sad and worried.
Heather,
Although we have never met, I follow your blog on a daily basis. My heart is overflowing with joy for you and Mike! You deserve to have all the love in the world! Wishing you a wonderful pregnancy. Maddie will never be forgotten…
Erika
Wow–this message is so far down on your huge list of well-wishes that I’m not sure you’ll ever even SEE it, but I still just had to write (for my first time, I might add, though I’ve been “stalking” you since May)! I am SO thrilled for your new beginning! I know it doesn’t in the least diminish what you had (and still have) with Maddie, but I am so happy for this new journey for your little family and I just know Maddie is watching over all three of you with that same old joy in her eyes. I have felt a kinship with you since I had a prenancy similar to yours with Maddie (bedrest for 13 weeks, though I was only hospitalized a week and our daughter arrived at a healthy 36 weeks) and I wanted to write earlier, but I felt “silly” (not AT ALL the right word, but I don’t know what would be) since our daughter is now a happy, healthy 10-year-old and our pregnancy similarities seemed so trivial compared to all you’ve been through with that and beyond… Anyway, my heart is with you!
Congratulations!
I can only imagine all the emotions that you are going through at this time but I will keep you all in my prayers that all goes well with the pregnancy, birth and beyond. And I’m sure sweet Maddie is looking down on you all and cannot wait to be an angel for her new sibling…
(Oh–and another reason I felt a connection with you is that your dear Maddie photos remind me SO MUCH of my daughter at her ages–they definitely have that Gerber baby look!)
.-= Jessica´s last blog ..Playing around with Conversions in CS3 =-.
Wow….congrats!! I don’t always leave comments, but I check your blog everyday to see the latest one. I’ve said it before, even though I don’t personally know you, I feel like I know you thru your blogs. It must be so bittersweet, but just know that Maddie is watching over you and the new little one. Congrats again, take care.
My prayers are for a healthy pregnancy for you. Your angel Maddie is watching over all of you.
Best wishes to all of you!
Wow, Heather. Congratulations! Still keeping you in my daily thoughts and now this little one too.
.-= Heather, Queen of Shake Shake´s last blog ..Love, Rewind =-.
My mouth literally dropped when I read this post. I am so happy for you and Mike, as bittersweet as this pregnancy may be. You are in my thoughts.
.-= Marin´s last blog ..Still Quiet =-.
Heather and Mike –
A gift from above! I am so thrilled for you both. Praying for an easy pregnancy. So exciting!
Wow. Congratulations and big, big hugs to you both.
.-= Miguelina´s last blog ..Joining the Minivan Elite =-.
I’ve been lurking for awhile, but I just wanted to say congratulations and good luck. I hope this pregnancy is completely uneventful
.-= Brooke´s last blog ..Sharing…Just Not My Lunch =-.
We know maddie can never be replaced, I pray that where sorrow has lived joy will abound.
God Bless,
Mitzi
oh heather! i am in tears for you…how wonderful and yet so sad at the same time!
it is my personal belief that this is Maddie sending you her love in the form of a little brother/sister…i know that you will make sure little binky knows of their big sister, and i know they will love her just as much as you did. congratulations!
Congratulations! This baby will bring love and joy into your house again. Nobody will ever think that this baby is a replacement of your precious Maddie. Nobody. This is going to be Maddie’s little brother or sister and they will grow up with wonderful stories and pictures of their amazing big sister. I am so happy for you and your whole family.
This is amazing news! Finally a bright spot on the emotional roller coast y’all have been riding. Maddie has siblings in heaven and now you and Mike won’t be alone either:)
Hugest of congratulations to you.
HUGE!
I’m so happy for you guys Heather!! Congrats to both you and Mike.
.-= Jessi´s last blog ..A little Peek inside =-.
Oh big hugs!!!!!!!!!!
.-= Jenn´s last blog ..Are we doing enough? =-.
Congratulations! I am so mixed with emotions for you I can’t even imagine how you feel, but someone at the beginning of your 600+ “comments” said it best. Binky will be very lucky to be born into this world with an angel by his/her side.
You ,Mike, Maddie & now Binky will continue to be in my prayers
.-= Emese´s last blog ..Why California Is Broke: =-.
and the adventures continue.
maddie would have loved having a sibling, and i dont think anyone around here will ever forget her. No need to worry about that, love.
my thoughts of healthy happy days ahead are sent to you!!
congrats to you ALL!
.-= leel´s last blog ..before & after ? betty ? =-.
Congrats to you guys. I wish you all the best. I have been following your blog for a pretty long time now. My heart still breaks for you since I know what you went through during your loss, since I also lost a child. Cherish this pregnancy and thank God for your new little miracle and for the time that you had with your Maddie.
Congratulations! I’ll be praying for you and Binky. And the baby already has his/her very own guardian angel.
.-= monstergirlee´s last blog ..July Greeblepix Entry =-.
I am so excited for you all. Congratulations!
.-= whoorl´s last blog ..Favorites =-.
that baby has the best big sister, I think. And I think the baby will know her well.
.-= this new place´s last blog ..Before he left for work tonight… =-.
I can understand your wistfulness about Maddie’s sibling missing out on knowing her delightfulness, but at the same time, this news is, in and of itself, good and exciting. Wishing you the most boring, uneventful pregnancy ever.
.-= feefifoto´s last blog ..Here’s Another Reason To Admire Walter Cronkite =-.
When I saw you talking about a sibling I thought she’s pregnant. I can’t tell you how happy I am to hear the wonderful news.
Congratulations.
I have been reading your blog for a while. I can’t remember how I found it. But your family’s story has touched my heart. Even though I don’t know you and you don’t know me, I am praying for your family. I pray that this pregnancy is healthy and you are blessed with another beautiful baby. Your new baby will have your sweet beautiful Maddie as her guardian angel. I don’t think there is anyone better for the job. God Bless you!
I found out about your family from Matt Logelin’s blog. My heart goes out to you, and I wish you the best for the new baby. I, too, had to take blood thinning injections while pregnant; I’ll keep you in my thoughts!
Wow. Just WOW. I’m so happy for you. I’m sure you must be a jumble of emotions but I’m sure this child is your little miracle baby. I have goose bumps all over, I’m just so thrilled for you. I’ll be saying extra prayers for you everyday that you have an uneventful pregnancy. I’m sure your little angel is watching over her special binky as well.
Wow!! I am so happy to hear your news!! Anyone with half a brain knows you can never replace your Maddie and that you would never try. A new life is such a wonderful gift and a reason to get up each morning. Congrats to you and Mike!!!
congratulations heather. my brother and sister in law lost their son when he was 18. she had her tubes “untied” and they had a little girl two years later. that little girl is now 14. it’s strange for her, not knowing her brother, and it certainly didn’t take away the pain of what happened, but it really was miraculous. i don’t say that lightly. sounds like you have your own little miracle going as well.
i first read about you on matt and maddie site~~i am so glad to hear the great news~~i have never lost a child ~god didn’t trust me enough with one to begin with~~but i have had life suckage in the form of losing husbands (2)
i know people think that something new replaces the old, but that is not so~~it is just more to love and i am so glad you have more to love
and don’t let the trolls get you down!
Another joyful expression of delight over this incredible news. So happy for you all!
.-= Maura´s last blog ..Crossroads =-.
Congratulations!
.-= Karen @ If I Could Escape´s last blog ..Musical Monday . . . Candy =-.
Congratulations to you!
Congrats! I am a lurker as well and I could not be happier to read this today.
I second another readers recomendation for the book ‘An Exact Replica of a Figment of My Imagination.’ It is the most honest potrayal of a mothers loss and then her second pregnancy.
Heather, this is wonderful news. Binky will get to know Maddie through your writing and learn how much she was loved by all of us. And how much you guys are loved, even by strangers like me
Your life has been such a rollercoaster, I hope you write a book one day.
And congratulations! It is OK to feel happy about this! And Binky already has a Guardian Angel.
Big hugs to you both!
Congratulations!
Wow! Congratulations! I cannot even begin to imagine the wave of emotions going through you during all of this! Maybe don’t look at it like Maddie won’t ever know Binky…Maybe Maddie was talking to God and thought that you were such a great mommy and daddy that you needed someone to love and care for…and she HAND PICKED Binky out for you guys! Maddie seems like an especially fabulous little girl…I can imagine her wanting nothing more than for you guys to get your smile back.
YAY !!!! I heard this morning but am just getting around to commenting !! YAY !!
.-= Kim´s last blog ..4 months =-.
Oh! Congrats! I had an older brother that died when i was 6 months old. I still remember the stories my mom told me about him, and that was without videos and pictures.
Congrats again.
.-= karen´s last blog ..discouraged =-.
Oh, I’m so excited for you guys! I’m sure Maddie picked the perfect little brother or sister to come live in your home and fill your hearts with a new joy.
Blessings to you and your family! What an exciting announcement!
.-= Amy´s last blog ..Busy bee! =-.
life is beautiful…sometimes in a very unique way.
congratulations on the little miracle.
you’ll be in my thoughts and prayers=)
.-= Maddie Marie´s last blog ..Humiliation…For the Win! =-.
Congrats! I’m so happy for you. Seems like this little person was sent to you to help you cope with all the pain you’re going through. Not a replacement by any means – but another reason to go on living.
I can’t wait to see you in person and give you a big hug.!
.-= Christina´s last blog ..Summer Barbecue in the Country =-.
I am delighted that you will have some joy in your life once more. Hugs. Sheryl
Wow!
I can’t help but be thrilled for you guys. Wishing you much love and good health.
.-= Julie @ The Mom Slant´s last blog ..Outliers in blogging =-.
I am delurking for the very first time. right here, right now.
You are an amazing woman. When I stumbled upon you online and read all your archives, I loved reading each and every word about the Spohrs.
I am thinking of you and happy for you… and wishing you nothing but good health over the next six months!
.-= Rachael´s last blog ..Pardon? =-.
Heather, I have never commented before but have been following your blog since your lost you precious Maddie. My mom and dad lost my sister when she was six weeks old. A 28 weeker born in 1982… I was born 5 years later. My mom recently told me that while she could never replace Suzanne, having me to help fill the void and lack of a baby in her arms helped her heal and brought some joy back to her. I have obviously never met my sister, but she has been as much a member of our family as any of my other siblings, I am sure that baby Binky will feel the same about sweet Maddie.
That should be I was born three year later…
Oh, my. Crying all-over-the-place-tears for you both. Congratulations, Heather. And HEALTHY and UNEVENTFUL are officially my mantras for you from this day on.
Awesome news! madeline will be watching for her brother or sister. God bless the four of you!
Over 700 comments…yup, you’ve got quite a few supporters pulling for you guys!!!
SO very happy to hear this news!
xoxo
.-= Kari (heartatpreschool)´s last blog ..What is D&G? =-.
So so so happy for you. Will keep you in our prayers that everything goes well.
I love you. And I will be sending good vibes, prayers, and anything else I can do to make sure you are healthy.
While I understand your hesitancy to go forward, especially missing Maddie, I do have some advice. My mom and dad lost their first child due to a screw up at the hospital. When I was old enough to understand, mom took me to the bank and opened the safe deposit box. Inside was the only picture of Jerry they ever had. We would’ve looked alike, dark hair and brown eyes. She explained that I had a brother, and that while they miss him every day, it didn’t mean they loved him more or less than me.
I grew up knowing March 12 was a special day (his birthday) and that March 14 would be a sad day (his passing.) I talk to his grave sometimes and talk to him when the going gets tough.
That brought me and my parents closer. I think you two will be okay.
<3
So happy you have some new light in your lives. I hope for a very healthy pregnancy and happier days ahead… you of all people deserve it.
My daughter and I are dong a “happy dance” right now… We are so glad that God is sending another little angel your way! Your love and memories of Maddie will never go away. YOu have plenty more available for baby binky!
Love and hugs, The Antunes
An extra does of blessings are now streaming our way. When you blogged about finding out about your clotting disorder, it made me wonder.
Your love for Maddie is amazing.
.-= Jill´s last blog ..What you get when you log into your 15 year old’s facebook account =-.
Congrats. I know Maddie is watching out for her new sibling. Praying for a healthy pregnancy for you.
Know that Maddie has Binky in her company right now and is getting to know her sibling before she sends Binky to you… God Bless…
.-= Tracey´s last blog ..Happy Birthday, America! =-.
Thanks for sharing this, it made my day! Through your touching stories, photos and videos, this stranger fell in love with Maddie’s beautiful spirit. I can’t imagine how much more this child will love and adore his/her big sister Maddie and feel inspired by her beautiful spirit!
I’m so happy for you guys.
So nice to be crying tears of joy for you…..
for a change.
Best of luck to you.
tears of joy!!
you are an amazing mother.
certain maddie is clapping those little hands with that gorgeous grin in the clouds.
.-= Momma Uncensored´s last blog ..guilt factor =-.
Wow! What a rollercoaster! I am so very happy for you, but totally understand how bittersweet this has to be for you. I wish you the very best.
.-= sarah ´s last blog ..He’s a smooth operator… =-.
Congratulations! You deserve every happiness.
.-= Heidi´s last blog ..Drowning in Bad Memories =-.
My morning routine everyday at work (I know bad habit) is to open your blog and read it. All my coworkers know that I do this and I tell them what is going on….I was so excited when I read your blog today! It made my Monday morning, I could not have been happier! I know it is hard and stressful due to circumstances but I’m wishing you good health and tons of hope. Congrats!
.-= Barb´s last blog ..Happy Birthday! =-.
What fabulous news! Thoughts and prayers coming your way for a healthy pregnancy. God is good-
WOW! Congratulations to you both! WOW! That’s all I can say. Well, that and I’m so happy for you. Sue (an avid reader)
.-= Sue Mills´s last blog ..New Year’s Resolution =-.
Wow…. What wonderful news!!! Congrats to you and Mike! I will be praying for a healthy and wonderful pregnancy …. and a precious little one! Congrats, congrats, congrats!!!
Oh wow. I’m speechless. Congratulations Spohrs! I will be sending extra thoughts and wellwishes your way. What a lucky Binky to be born with an angel on his/her shoulder.
.-= Ashleigh´s last blog ..Happy Birthday Papo! =-.
What a blessing! I am sure this will be a bittersweet time for you, but I know that any joy you feel over this new life won’t mean that you miss or love Maddie any less. I will pray for a healthy pregnancy for you, continued healing for both of your hearts, and that no sooner than next January or February we will all get to meet Maddie’s little brother or sister!
.-= Vera´s last blog ..It’s Days Like Today =-.
Heather, I am so happy that this new baby is coming into your life. I know he/she will never replace Maddie and you can never “get over” the loss of a child, no matter how many others come into your life. But I hope that you can enjoy this pregnancy and this new life.
Congratulations. I pray this baby brings you as much joy as Maddie did.
.-= Christiana´s last blog ..I just made you say "under where?"** =-.
Ok, I know I posted a comment this morning but I had to come back again and read the post again – SOOOOOO Happy for you guys.
Sooooo Happy for you!
I just can’t quit thinking about this. I’m so happy. I think it is amazing how this baby will see all the love that surrounded it from the very first moment. <3
.-= Kellee´s last blog ..AND SHE ENFOLDS HERSELF IN THE PURPLE OF EMPERORS =-.
I’m a reader who wanted to delurk and say congrats on your pregnancy, and that I will be (continuing) to pray for you guys and think good things for your family.
I have never commented, always lurked. But I wanted to tell you congratulations! You and your family are amazing and I wish you nothing but the best.
I know I’m just another comment in an ocean filled with so many, but I had to tell you and Mike congratulations. I’m very happy for you and your family. I’m sure you’re filled with mixed emotions.
Thinking of you!
.-= Kellie´s last blog ..I’m Just Sayin’… =-.
I’ll add my congratulations to the 700+ others! What a mixture of despair and euphoria you’re getting. A whole new little person, wow. And the memory of the most special little girl ever…
Heather, after 700+ comments you probably already read everything we could possible say, but I want to take my time and let you know that this stranger is very, very happy for you. Happy because amongst all the tears, you will soon be smiling again. You and Mike deserve that. Yep, some people will talk garbage like they always do, but don’t spend a second of your life with them. Just live, live happy, for your baby, for Maddie. Hugs to you/
you know how happy i am for you guys. i only want the best for you two and only happiness from here on out.
Again, Congrats to the both of you again!
.-= gorillabuns´s last blog ..tell me what you want, what you really, really want =-.
I read this post early this morning and have been thinking about it all day. It must be so hard to be happy for your growing baby and grieve for Maddy at the same time. No matter what Maddy will always be part of your life and the life of your baby, Maddy will be a great big sister and look out for her little bro/sis from above and be their guardian angel. Congrats and all the best!
beyond wonderful news – congratulations to all of you!
.-= amanda´s last blog ..twenty one whole months =-.
Crying for the very best reason this time–sheer joy. What a lucky baby to join such a tremendous family!
Alexis
So happy for you. Just because your lives are going on doesn’t mean you’ll ever forget about Maddie. Don’t feel guilty for healing and growing.
This brought me to tears. For many reasons. My thoughts are with you, Heather. I’m happy that there is a glimmer of life and hope growing in your home.
.-= Jenny´s last blog ..Room sharing =-.
Little Binky has a very special little angel watching over him or her. Congratulations on your wonderful news! I am just so very, very happy for you!
Awesome news! I’m very, very happy for you and Mike! Congratulations.
.-= Bil Simser´s last blog ..Boo! SharePoint. Not really. =-.
Lots of prayers for a smooth pregnancy and healthy baby. My friend had a baby pass away and she had another baby just 13 months later. She mentioned all the things you did, and while that new baby surely didn’t replace their son, they were so happy to be loving on a baby again, that it did help them heal a bit.
I also have another friend with a clotting disorder, and she lost 2 babies, and had a tiny preemie before they figured it out. She did the injections too with her last 3 babies, and they all did great.
May you be so blessed to have a healthy, full-term baby this time around. And no, you don’t have to act like everything is fine….pregnancy is a good time to lie on the couch and cry and take complete care of yourself, doing whatever it is you need to heal. Lots of love.
Heather and Mike,
I am so happy for you both that you are able to share such happiness during your sorrow. Looking through all of your pictures and videos, one can easily see that you are meant to be parents. The love that you showered Maddie with is inspiring. I think every parent that reads your blog thinks of you and Maddie each day they share with their child.
Lots of wishes to an easy pregnancy without bed-rest! I know it must be bittersweet, but I have to think that Maddie must have played part in this. Two weeks after my dad passed away, my brother and his girlfriend conceived Olivia Grace. (My sister and I each have 2 boys) While he never got to hold his little princess, I really feel he had a hand in it.
I look forward to continue reading your blog and meeting Binky!
A new little Friend of Maddie! WA-OOW, as the Famous Madeline would say. I am so happy for you and Mike. Maddie may not be here to be with Binky (which is so unfair), but a big sister like that is hard to come by. How many 17 month old toddlers change the world??
PS: Any one who thinks one baby can make the loss of another OK and/or that is what you guys are trying to do is on crack and needs an ass kicking. You know I’d take of that for you.
.-= Alison´s last blog ..Are You? =-.
I somehow had a feeling you were pregnant. Weird, I know, since I don’t actually know you. You guys will continue to be in my prayers. I’m very happy for your new addition, but I would never expect this child to be a “replacement” for your precious Maddie. You know Maddie will be watching over little Binky (as well as you and Mike) every step of the way.
Congratulations!
.-= Becca´s last blog ..Weekend Project – Amalie’s Quilt =-.
Heather!! This is wonderful news. It’s as if Maddie herself has given you the gift of hope, and joy! Praying for a healthy pregancy for you.
Much love!! Bryn
Dude, when I read this on my phone this morning and didn’t get a chance to comment, there were 12 comments. 12!! Now there are over 750!? Talk about loved, my friend.
I am so thrilled for you guys and will keep every appendage crossed and throw out prayers to every deity out there that it goes well for you!
Wow. Alison couldn’t speak for like 2 whole minutes when she read this. She kept repeating a phrase that contained the word “holy” and 2 bad words that you can imagine yourself. I was speechless too!
I’m so happy for you. I’m so excited that Binky is on his/her way. And as others have said people who say dumb things will get their asses handed to them by a whole army of internet/real life friends.
I wish you and Mike the best.
Oh, wow. You must have crazy mixed feelings, and the hormones must make things pretty interesting. Wishing you a healthy, easy pregnancy and a full-term delivery! And of course none of us will ever forget–or stop talking about–Little Maddie Moo.
Congratulations! What an awesome gift, and for your second baby to know what a wonderful big sister they had- they’ll know how special she is.
I’ll be following and praying so hard that everything goes smoothly.
.-= Danielle´s last blog ..Who Ya Gonna Call? =-.
Congratulations! I have goosebumps as big as boobs.
.-= Shelli´s last blog ..Death Just Sucks the Life Out of You =-.
sending a little love, a lot of prayers and good wishes your way. i don’t remember how i found your blog but we have a history of infertility + miscarriages and can somewhat empathize with what you are going through. best wishes for a good, healthy, (can we hope for?) full term pregnancy.
BITTERSWEET for sure. I am sooooo happy for you nonetheless. Try to enjoy the new life as much as you can…….knowing Maddie had a hand in this
Congrats…Maddie will always be a part of your family and it will be a joy to share with her little sister!!
Heather and Mike,
Congratulations and good wishes for a healthy pregnancy! Your new baby will always have a “guardian angel”. Maddie will watch over her/him.
My daughter wrote a poem about her sister, who passed away almost 5 years before Kelly was born, for her junior class poetry notebook. It was wonderful, and still makes me cry, but just goes to show that we can let younger siblings “know” their siblings who passed before they were born.
I look forward to following this pregnancy to a happy ending.
Congratulations. I know this must be sad and happy and scary, all at once. Binky is going to be a lucky little one– two great parents, and a wonderful sister he’ll know through all his/her friends and family.
What a precious gift… I am so happy for the four of you!!
We had a sunshine rainshower on my way home from work today– It’s moments of joy through the tears… Thinking of you and wishing you all the best!!
Love from Ohio!
Valerie
WOW! What an incredible blessing. I’m praying for your healthy pregnancy.
.-= Kelly´s last blog ..Embarrassing Moment of the Week =-.
I feel such joy for you over your news. How I wish Maddie could still be there, although I’d like to think that she will be watching over you all always.
.-= Fairly Odd Mother´s last blog ..Am I a Mean Mama? Your Thoughts, Please? =-.
I am SO happy for you. Don’t for one second feel guilty or let peoples comments bring you down.
It is like a widow remarrying, of course the new husband will take place in her heart of the first husband.
But is it so wrong to be happy. I am so happy for you, and am praying for a smooth pregnancy.
You deserve all the happiness in the world.
.-= Amy´s last blog .. =-.
incredible news! many happy thoughts sent your way.
Congratulations Heather and Mike ! Wishing you all the best
Wow, wow, wow!! *wipes away happy tears*
Congratulations, Heather and Mike! I can’t wait to hear more about little Binky. I just know he/she was hand picked by an amazing big sister to help soothe your hearts, if even just a little.
Many, many hugs, and smiles, and good thoughts and prayers coming your way.
xoxo
What can I say that hasn’t already been said and worded way better than I could have said it?
I’ll just say that I hope your new addition brings a little ray of sunshine to what has been a very dark time. Congratulations on your exciting news!
Wow, what a blessing! I know that you are probably full of fear however it is obvious that you are so loved. The love that has surrounded you through tragedy will also surround you on this new chapter. Congratulations!
What great news!! A BIG congrats to both of you!!! Sending huge hugs and lots of positive vibes your way!
Bittersweet is the only word that comes to mind.
Just know that there are (obviously) many, many people praying for you and your little one.
.-= Holli´s last blog ..I’M STILL HERE =-.
This is just the best news ever. I pray for you everyday!!! I have seen from reading your website that you and Mike are the BEST parents ever!!!! I can’t wait to see pictures of this little one. I love all the photos you have of Madeline. Every picture of that little girl is just amazing!!! For some reason her personalitly really came through in pictures – I just can’t describe it. She seemed so vibrant and energetic. And SMART!!!! She really was smart for her age. I’m sending you so much love and positive thoughts. Thank you for your website.
Anna
I’m so glad hear about the new ray of light in your life. I understand your mixed emotions. But here is something that came to my mind, this is something else to thank wonderful Maddie for, Thanks to her Binky will have a better chance, and hopefully with this baby you’ll get to experience the many things you have mentioned you wanted to do with Maddie. You will never forget her. When I found out about my 3rd pregnancy (1st born baby) I realized I had to give her all the love that she deserved, plus the loved I had saved for her siblings. I don’t know if I can explain what I want in words but I hope you get the idea.
Big hugs to you and Mike. I’ll pray for the 4 of you.
Hmm, let’s see … what can I say that hasn’t already been said by the previous 750??? Let’s see:
Congratulations to you both!!!
What’s that? Oh.
How about …
I’ll pray for you to have a healthy pregnancy, and, eventually, a beautiful and healthy “Binky”!
Oh, I’m not the first say that either? Well, that’s okay, I guess. ;o)
You know, your sweet Maddie has found a place in my heart forever. She will never be forgotten. And neither will her Family…
Yesterday is history.
Tomorrow is a mystery.
Today is a Gift …
That’s why it’s called the PRESENT.
I’m so happy about your newest “gift” … and can only hope you get many “presents” along the way … with precious Maddie by your side. Always.
~Michelle
micheller@cinci.rr.com
OMGosh!!!!!!! Not sure how religious you are heather but that’s TOTALLY god working in your life!!
I delivered my little angel deceased at 5months pregnant and 6 weeks later to my surprise i was pregnant again……It was hard and i was in no way ready really (emotionally) but it sure did help me heal, made it easier to think about……. and no i don’t think a still birth is in any way at all even a little bit like loosing a child you have held, nurtured, loved but you get my drift…or i hope you do:)
I will keep on praying
.-= Janet´s last blog .. =-.
Congratulations Heather. Love to you, Mike, Maddie, and Binky.
I am so happy for you both! Lots of hugs! Aimee in CT
I just saw and I’m so happy for you. My prayers/thoughts will be with you guys for a healthy and happy pregnancy.
.-= Kelley´s last blog ..The Building Chronicals pt. 6 =-.
Heather, all I can do is continue to send my love and prayers to you, Mike, Maddie, and now little Binky. Of course one child does not replace another. What we do know is that children represent hope, and I hope the one(s) to come into your family will bring you more of that. God bless you all.
.-= Kelly´s last blog ..Wow =-.
Wow, those are a lot of feelings to deal with. My SIL just had twins two years after the death of my nephew, and it was a mixed bag of emotions for a long time.
I am so happy for you! Even though this new baby will not replace the daughter you have lost, she will make a new spot of warmth in your heart that will help.
This is a beautiful rainbow in the middle of a terrible storm. You, Mike, Maddie, and Binky are in my thoughts. I wish you a pregnancy as normal as possible with a healthy baby at the end. No baby could ever replace Maddie, but I think she’d be happy to share your love with her little sister or brother.
P.S. – I might be a bit partial, but January 19 is a GREAT birthday. And Lisa is a great name if Binky is a girl, Just sayin…
Here’s to a safe and happy pregnancy, Heather. I cannot imagine the emotions you must be feeling. Know that you, Mike, Maddie, and Binky are in the hearts and minds of so many of the readers you have touched with your honesty.
‘You know I love you more than my luggage.’ Bonus points if you know the movie.
I love you both and am here for you during this amazing, sad, happy, crazy time. Babies are always a miracle, and I, for one, am glad I get to tell the new baby ‘Maddie stories’.
xoxo
Maddie will be a beautiful angel big sister to this new precious gift… praying for your comfort and peace ….take care …many wishes of hope for you all..
I fallow your blog and have cried over your words so painful and sad…but to read this makes me cry tears of joy for you.. I am not much of a religious person..but for this will keep you in my thoughts and prayers that your pregnancy goes as wonderful as you desserve….good luck and I CANNOT wait until the due date to see where this story unfolds…I am sure madeline is somewhere laughing…healthy…and extremely excited for you.
I can’t even imagine you’ll make it all the way down to my comment here, but I just had to wish you all well and say congratulations! As much as you miss Maddie, and always will, Maddie is still such a blessing for you both, and Binky will be too.
I look forward to hearing about your pregnancy and birth, along with your reflections on big sister Maddie.
More virtual hugs from another stranger-friend,
~Angela
.-= Angela´s last blog ..Giddy up! =-.
I am thrilled for y’all. So thrilled, in fact, I am having trouble typing anything else!!
Congratulations!!
Congrats Heather and Mike! Wishing you all the best.
Lori
All my love,
Allison Speicher
I can only begin to imagine the conflicting emotions you both must be feeling. I will be sending all my positive prayers and energy your way as you navigate this strange new territory, one filled with so many minefields.
And also? Very thrilled for you.
.-= mrs. chicken´s last blog ..Hills And Valleys =-.
I am so glad that the Spohrs are multiplying again.
Congratulations!
Linda in Canada
I almost cried when I read you were pregnant, and we’ve never even met. I hope your Binky is healthy, happy, and that you feel incredible joy again, though it will co-exist with the pain.
.-= Samantha Gianulis´s last blog ..Just Beachy, Thanks-fresh lemonade & deviled eggs recipe =-.
I’m bawling. I love you both and love Binky already. Maddie is so excited – I know she is. Good luck.
I’ve been reading this blog for a while, silently rooting for you guys and sending only the best thoughts. This post spurred me to comment. WOW. how very brave and incredible.
I have goosebumps all over my body and tears in my eyes.
Congratulations! I am SO happy for you.
Anyone with a heart or brain will not expect this baby to make you “get over” Maddie’s loss, but an addition to your family cannot help but give you a new focus and a new sense of hope and meaning in life.
One of my good friends lost her brother when she was a child. Shortly after his death, the mother found out she was pregnant. My friend has said numerous times that the baby saved her family.
Many prayers and best wishes are being sent your way.
OMG! You absolutely won’t believe what I am about to type but it the honest to goodness truth!! I was reading a few articles here and there online and the I thought to myself, “time to chek in on the Spohrs…” Just as I thought that I thought about what wonderful parents you are and were to Maddie, and I instantly wondered if/when you might consider having another child… In one of those moments where thoughst race through your mind fatser than you can possibly re-tell them, I thought about how hard it might be for you to “try” another child, how scary preganancy might be for you, and heck given your grief if you’d ever feel like having sex again. Then just as quickly as all those thoughts paraded trhough my mind, just as quickly I thought, no baby/ies would ever “replace” your precious Madeline, nor erase your grief, BUT you and Mike are such amazing people and in spite of your loss would have so much love to give and probably even more love to give becauseof your all too brief time with Maddie. I found myself wishing you would find the desire for another child, sooner than later… AND then OMG I strated reading THIS post!! I about fell over when I read the word “pregnant”! While your pregnancy is obviously so bittersweet for you, I believe with all my heart that it is a blessing and that this child will be so blessed to have you and Mike as parents. As I said, *because* of Maddie you will have more love to give in ways that will be a tribute to all the goodness Maddie brought into your hearts and the world around her. While the doctors are watching over you here on earth, Maddies beautiful spirit is watching over you, too. I hope in spite of all the grief you have endured and the bittersweet nature of this new miracle in your lives, that you will feel the joy of this pregnancy and know that it is a symbol of your love for each other and your family of which Maddie will always be a part. Much love and continued prayers for all of you!!
It takes a long ass time to get through 801 comments.
NELKEN!
xoxo
.-= moosh in indy.´s last blog ..a chance to see my uterus and eating habits. =-.
Oh Heather, my heart is exploding for you and Mike!
I was just watching Knocked Up and the closing song is the one you used in your video tribute to Maddie and I was thinking about you guys.
And then I read this…
OMFG…I’m ecstatic—just so damn happy for you guys!
.-= IzzyMom´s last blog ..WTF? A Visual Essay =-.
I am so very happy for you. I can not imagine what a bittersweet time this is for ya’ll. I think that just knowing one more person is out there thinking of you is more than enough words.
Thrilled, thrilled, thrilled! OMG!! So happy for you both and how proud Maddie must be!! I will continue praying for you all like I do daily, but now I just have one more little binky to pray for!! Take care and keep us posted!!
Yeah!!!!!!!!!
Congratulations! Anyone who has read even one blog post of yours would know that you will never forget Maddie. I pray for you daily and will add your sweet Binky to my prayers. Maddie’s brother or sister will be blessed to be a Spohr and will grow up so proud of his/her big sister.
C’mon people, let’s break 1000 well wishing notes to the fabulous Sphor’s!!!!! And continue them each day.
Congrats Heather and Mike. I can’t wait for you to feel that first kick…so quit trying to feel it and let it take you by suprise.
Sweet angel Maddie. What a gift you send.
.-= Lisa´s last blog ..Sleep overs =-.
Wow, what news! Congratulations!! It must be very bittersweet. Everytime I think I can wrap my head around some tiny piece of your experience, it expands and blows my mind all over again. I will make a wish every day that you have a healthy pregnancy. So very happy for you and Mike. Take good care of yourself.
CONGRATUALTIONS!
im so happy for you!
i started to cry when i read this and i wish you the best of luck. hopefully you’ll have another happy, beautiful baby just like his/her big sister.
I now have a special place in my heart for FOUR SPOHRS!
XOXOXOXO <– hugs and kisses for all four!
.-= Nanette´s last blog ..Em possible =-.
I am so happy for you guys. This new precious miracle is beautiful gift from GOD and Maddie.
I audibly gasped when I read the title, and consequent post. I have never been so invested in someone’s life whom I don’t even know. I am also cautiously happy for you, so very happy, and hope and pray this pregnancy goes well. I know Maddie is Binky’s guardian angel, and I just know she will pass some of her spirit down in her younger brother or sister. Just another comment in one of (almost!) a thousand….
Cannot tell you how happy I am for your wonderful news!!!!!!!
I will be praying for you!!!!!!
I am so truly happy for you both! A new beginning for you all.
This pregnancy has nothing to do with the loss of Maddie, this is all good and what you both had planned in any event.
Please do not feel guilt over Maddie’s passing and the beating heart of your soon to be babe. Embrace it! Run with it and hope with all my heart it helps you both heal..
Baby #2 is not a band-aid but hoping she/he gives you something to love and care for as you have so missed with raising Maddie.
My mom lost 1 babe to miscarriage (1X) and then two stillborn. She went on to have 6 more kids. The ‘lost’ babies never forgotten, we all know and mourn them to this day.
I am so happy you two have this very special blessing. I am sure Maddie is thrilled for you both, wherever she may be…
Oh my!! Congratulations!
.-= stephanie´s last blog ..Posting will be spotty for the next week… =-.
Oh my goodness, congratulations to you & Mike!!! Keeping you in our thoughts for a healthy pregnancy & healthy baby!
Congratulations from a lurker who has cried many tears for you and your sweet Maddie. Please don’t fear that your joy will somehow cheapen your loss and sorrow over Maddie. You are just adding to the family of people who will love Maddie forever.
Congratulations Heather and Mike. I wondered if you were pregnant with a post or two you wrote, and I am so happy for you that it is so. I don’t think any one in their right mind could think that you are ‘over Maddie’ by having another child, after all that child is not Maddie. However, I have no doubt that that child will be loved as much as Maddie always will be.
Needles in the stomach everyday? You may be my hero.
Congratulations! I hope so much for a safe and healthy pregnancy and baby in the coming months.
Just wanted to send you the best Congratulations! We will pray for a healthy pregnancy.
Congratulations. I hope that you will feel such amazing peace – even in the midst of so much heartache and stress – and rest in the knowledge that your little Madeline is probably already chatting up a storm to her little brother or sister. I have no doubt that they already have an amazing, albeit celestial, connection.
Many prayers for a safe and sticky baby.
.-= Amy´s last blog ..Beyond Random . . . =-.
Oh my gosh! I just surfed in via BlogHer@Home and read Maddie’s story and bawled my eyes out. I was in shock since we also had a preemie. What’s even eerier is that Little One was born on November 11, 2008 (exactly a year after your sweet Maddie!). Little One was also 12 weeks premature. I couldn’t get over all the similarities we shared in our NICU experience. I wish I had “known” you back when you were going through your NICU time. It truly helps when you’ve got others around who “know” what you’re going through because they’re going through it too. I’ll be back again and again to check in on you guys via the blog. So glad I found your blog.
.-= Chrissy´s last blog ..Let There Be Chocolate =-.
Congrats! Awesomeness! Am very very happy for you!
You have likely seen this, but just in case it could help:
http://ivfshootemup.blogspot.com/2007/09/clexanelovenox-given-sq-bea.html
I had to inject heparin every day from the positive pregnancy test to just before delivery and it still hurt a bit, but this video showed me how to do it bruise and pain free. It was wonderful!
(Only two bruises–once from the nurse, grrr, and once when I just jammed it in and ran because I stupidly thought it didn’t matter.)
Good luck! I’ll be reading!
.-= Aurelia´s last blog ..don’t even know what to write =-.
OH MY GAH!!!!!!!!
I am sooooo excited for you both!!!!!!!
And I ditto or second what every other wunnerful commenter has added above!
DITTO!
YESSS!
YEAH!
W00T! W00T!
(ok, ok – time for decaf, I know)
You are in my prayers. And I’m very glad to hear you’re being watched so closely.
Namasté and big huge sappy hug.
Mitzi
P.S. Congrats by the way! Looking forward to reading about the adventures and arrival of Binky! This is such exciting news! How awesome of you guys to start a non-profit organization for Maddie. That is wonderful. I was thinking about starting something like that for the parents/babies in the NICU that Little One was in for the first 2 months of her life.
Congratulations, Heather and Mike! I read your post and cried! You are in my prayers.
This is wonderful news…take care of yourself, and try not to worry too much!
Dear Heather and Mike:
You don´t know me, but I´ve been following your blog daily. When I got to read this post, I didn´t notice about the title, I just read. When I saw about you being pregnant, i couldn´t do anything but say out loud Yeeei!!! I know this baby won´t replace your awesome and beautiful Maddie, but I´m sure, it will bring you lots of joy and happy moments. And as other people have written before, I´m sure, Maddie chose the correct baby to send to this world for her amazing parents.
I wish you the best.
And i most say , I think Binky its a GIRL!!!!
Congratulations!
And I wish you the best. Never would I ever assume that another baby would replace Maddie, but it’s still great to have another baby to share your love with. And Maddie I’m SURE is excited about a sibling.
I know this life isn’t the end. Your babies will know each other eventually.
I am so happy for your little family!!!
I, too, was just thinking about how terribly hard it would be for you to consciously “try” for another baby without feeling guilt for “moving on”, or “survivor’s guilt”- and now this decision was made FOR you. It may be sooner than you were ready for… And for that, my heart aches for you. Maddie is irreplaceable, but this new baby is sure to remind you of her in ways that will comfort that ache in your arms for your child.
Bittersweet…yes. But emphasis on the sweet. Next year or ten years from now- the decision would never be easy.
A baby born to loving, giving, long suffering parents is always something to rejoice over.
Take care of yourself and Binky. And we are all forever Friends of his/her big sister Maddie.
oh, Heather, that’s great news. Yours is the first and only blog I follow, and I was recently telling a friend how interesting it was that I’d been so taken in by your story, and how I would never say it to you, but I really hoped you’d choose to have another baby. How, though your Maddie will ALWAYS be with you, I really hoped you’d have the opportunity to see that with each additional child, your love increases. Your love for Maddie will never wain, but this new baby will fill your heart with even more love. My daughter was born 1 lb 6 oz and I thought for many years that she would be my only child, mainly because I couldn’t imagine sharing my love with any other children. I now have 2 little boys, and it amazes me how the love just grows and grows. I’m so glad you will also get to experience this. Best of luck with your pregnancy!
WOW. WOW. WOW. How exciting you guys!!!! I know (Binky) Will be so blessed to have two wonderful people as parents. Even more blessed to have Maddy as a Big sister!!! WONDERFUL news. May you have a very smooth and Uneventful- as in no surprises, pregnancy. Much Love From New Zealand!!
.-= Jen Rew´s last blog ..The 3 D’s I hate… =-.
Congratulations. And thank you for sharing. I am praying for a healthy pregnancy and baby.
I guess that losing a child is somewhat like having a limb amputated. Although the wound eventually heals, something will always remain missing. I hope that the new baby will at least relieve the pain of your empty arms, even though it can never fill the hole in your heart. It will have its own special place in your heart beside Maddie.
God bless!
Heather, what great news. A precious new life to love. Bittersweet….yes I agree, my heart clinched just a bit as I read your post…..but in a good way. Maddie can not be replaced ever….her memory will not be forgotten…but you can look forward to new memories with Binky and that is a precious gift.
I like to think Maddie hand picked Binky just for you and Mike. I will keep you in my prayers.
.-= Coloradolady´s last blog ..Blue Monday : Thrifted Nightstand Makeover =-.
Congratulations! I am SO happy for you and Mike. I think of Maddie everyday, she is my hero! I try to tell people as many people I can about how amazing Maddie is. Anyway this is the 1st time I have ever cried tears of joy LOL. Iamsonotacrierhah! Congrats again!
.-= Meghan´s last blog ..megsapatsfan12: Matt Holliday did hit a grandslam! haha I deleted 1 of my tweets because I thought I called it wrong. WOW. I am not all here today! go A’s! =-.
Wow. I’m currently in China on business and a fellow blog-reader emailed me with the news as we talk about you often. I’m thrilled for you. My in-laws lost a baby around Maddie’s age- while my MIL was pregnant with her second daughter. 40 years later, they have three adult children, but have never forgotten their first. I guess what I’m trying to say is that if they are any good example, your life will be full and happy, and you will never, ever forget your first wonderful child.
Much love and happiness,
Liz
Many congratulations x
.-= Bianca S´s last blog ..Smashbox SPF Photo Finish Foundation Primer =-.
Hi Heather,
Have been reading your blog for about a month now though I havent been commenting…but then, i just HAD to comment on this post of yours……I have no proper words to express how happy I am for you and Mike….really….your blog brought me to tears and Maddie is sooooo beautiful……
I will pray for you and for Mike and for Maddie too….wishing you both the best of times after this…..
Cheers,
Deepa
.-= Deepa´s last blog ..Keeping fingers crossed!! =-.
Oh, a baby… Such wonderful news! Very best wishes to you!!!
.-= Heide´s last blog ..CEiMB: Aromatic Noodles with Lime-Peanut Sauce =-.
As usual I’m a day late and a dollar short but I just wanted to say how happy I am for the two of you!
.-= Kristin´s last blog ..Lost =-.
Congratulations! I love your blog, and I read it religiously. We’ve never met, but I feel as much joy for you right now as I did when I found out my best friend was pregnant. Maddie would have loved this, and her spirit has been dancing for joy ever since you got the news.
Congratulations.
It is hard to deal with the people who think that you are pregnant again to “replace” a child that has died. I tell people, when they are inconsiderate enough to say such things, that we have expanded our family because we love our children and want them to have siblings to watch over and love. It is painful and I get angry, but some people just have no idea.
I hope that you have a healthy pregnancy.
.-= Michele´s last blog ..Adoration =-.
I’m just so glad for you guys. And for Binky. What a wonderful legacy he or she has to inherit from big sister Maddie. What a lucky, lucky baby.
Congratulations! You’re in my prayers.
Catching up on posts and delighted to see this joyful news. Congratulations! Binky has such a loving family… and an especially amazing big sister looking out for him or her always.
I am so happy for you. It is definitely bittersweet. A new child brings new happiness and adventures but in NO way replaces a lost child or negates her existence. You and Maddie gave my hubby and I the courage to face our infertility battle before, and you continue to do so with Binky.
I’m not sure I’ve ever commented, but I’ve been following your blog since March. I’ve cried for you, and now I want to congratulate you. What a blessing! And I hope that it is healing–NOT in the everything’s fine now kind of way, but rather that this new life will be balm for the wound of Maddie’s loss, that there will be new joy to accompany the old pain. Best of luck,
Liz
Congratulations! I have been lurking ever since reading about Maddie’s death on Matt Logelin’s site. It made my heart break! But, now I am happy that your home will once again have a baby in it. And, I hope no one says anything to you that in anyway minimizes what you have lost…while you also enjoy the excitement of Binky’s arrival.
Oh Heather and Mike! What a wonderful blessing. I am so happy to know that you are going to be parents once again. I hope you have a healthy little bundle of joy.
And do not worry, Maddie will never be forgotten. <3
I know this must be such a mixed time! I’m sure you are doing lots of comparing to how your pg with Maddie went at this stage, etc…that’s so inevitable, but probably hard also.
I know this baby will be NO replacement, not even close…but it sure will be nice to have another reason to get up in the morning, won’t it…? I am very happy for you.
I am THRILLED beyond belief for you guys! Binky and Maddie will always be best friends because I know you and Mike will make sure that happens.
Love you guys!
I can’t even remember how I came across your blog but I’ve been following it for awhile now and I’ve been moved to tears at the raw love and honesty of which you type. Immense congratulations on the new baby from Colorado!
.-= Mandy´s last blog ..Apparently we cannot all get along =-.
There are no words that can discribe how happy I am for you and your husband! I can’t even imagine the pain that you have been going through over the last several months, and I think that you are a strong and wonderful person to allow your self to go through this journey again!! Congrats on such a wonderful new milestone in your life! I wish NOTHING but health and happiness for this new joy coming into your life! I hope that you are feeling well! I try to believe that everything happens for a reason and I believe that this is going to be your new beginning! Maddie will always be watching over you like the angle she is and this is the new angle that she is bringing to you! Wish you all the joy and happiness in the world!!!
Oh Heather!!!! I’m sooooo happy for you! Maddy will always be Binky’s big sister, and a very special one at that!! I understand how hard it is to make others realize that this doesn’t fix everything. I just found out we’re expecting again My family can’t understand why I still miss our little girl. Even though I’m really excited, it’s very hard to be & my situation is not near as difficult as yours has been.
Sending you much, much love & healthy binky vibes from Galveston, TX!!!
Can’t wait to follow this journey with you!
xoxo,
Marian
Wishing you a wonderful, uneventful, pregnancy!
.-= Christa´s last blog ..Cliche =-.
I’m so glad you are being so closely monitored. I know your fear. I felt it every single day when I was (FINALLY) pregnant with my first child. My entire pregnancy when people asked me when I was due I answered “If all goes well….” I was SO afraid I would never be a mother and that now that I was finally pregnant, and my pregnancy, like yours, was high risk, I would never actually hold my daughter in my arms. I also did heparin injections, took prednisone, was on metformin (PCOS) and baby aspirin, for all the different blood clotting and autoimmune issues I had. I also ended up with Gestational Diabetes, but was able to control that well with just diet. Toward the end of my pregnancy I was driving to the various doctors (perinatologist, dietician, OB, and my reproductive endocrinologist who was monitoring my blood levels) 4 or MORE times a week! I was actually glad that I had been laid off or I would have been fired from my job for being gone so much.
So I really do understand where you are coming from with this pregnancy (I also did heparin injections in my abdomen until I didn’t feel comfortable doing so as my belly grew and then started doing them in my upper thigh).
I DO want to tell you that with all that monitoring and with all the medical assistance, I delivered a healthy baby girl at 39 weeks 1 day! She is now 6 (almost 7) going on 15! LOL I did the same with my second pregnancy and delivered a healthy baby boy who is now 5!
I wish you all the best with this pregnancy. We are all crossing fingers and toes for you!!
OMG!!!! I could NOT get the idea of you being pregnant out of my head for 3 months now!!!!! Honestly!! I am so happy for you and Mike and Maddie and Rigby and your whole entire family!!!! I am crying! I do not know you, I’ll never meet you IRL, but I am truly overjoyed! Thank you for sharing! You will be in my prayers!! (((HUGS)))
Congrats…can’t wait to meet Binky. Praying for you! Hugs and loves.
.-= Kimmie´s last blog ..Thank You. =-.
Tears. Lots and lots of tears of joy for you, Mike, Maddie, and Rigby. Binky has an amazing big sister that will be watching over him/her and a family with more love than words can explain. I’m so happy for your family, and thank you for sharing this beautiful news.
.-= Kara´s last blog ..Monday Musings =-.
Congratulations! You guys are in my prayers.
.-= Hope´s last blog ..The Past Few Weeks… =-.
This news made my week! So, so happy for you and your whole family! Congrats.
Congratulations! Your family will continue to be in my prayers. *hugs*
.-= Sarah´s last blog ..6(!) soon to be 4 =-.
Congratulations!!!!! I am so very happy for you. This is great news.
All the best!
Yay!
The worst thing anyone can think is that a new baby will ever replace one that you lost. A new and healthy pregnancy, however renews hope and faith in the human body and spirit. Here’s to a healthy and happy pregnancy!
.-= selfmademom´s last blog ..Thing #443 to freak out about while pregnant =-.
I am normally not a prayerful person, but I am thinking good thoughts for you. This is the first time I have read your blog since April that I didn’t
feel like crying while reading. My happy good juju vibes are going your way.
I saw the title and was hoping this was the news you were going to share!!
I am so happy for you, Mike & your family!! CONGRATULATIONS!!
I am sorry that Maddie will not get to grow up with Binky, but I am sure that they have already met
You guys are awesome parents and deserve every happiness in the world.
Congrats again and here’s to an uneventful pregnancy!!
Can’t wait to share the journey with you!
Much love, Jenn in CA
CONGRATS!
Ok, I’m crying over your blog again, for about the eleventy-hundredth time. Congratulations! I am so hoping that this pregnancy goes smoothly for you. Binky will know Maddie so well via this site and all the ways you’ve honored her memory. You’re already wonderful parents – Binky is a lucky kid.
CONGRATULATIONS!
My mom’s older sister and her husband had a daughter about two years after their son was born. Blair Lorin. “Lorin” like my mom, Lori. After a relatively normal pregnancy and birth, Blair developed complications with her liver. My aunt dragged her all over the state to find a doctor that would take her seriously when she mentioned Blair’s symptoms. She passed away at six months old from liver failure despite my aunt’s best efforts to get doctors to believe her. I just wanted to let you know that they had another daughter three years later and yet another almost two years after that. Nobody forgets Blair and everybody knows my aunt will never be “over” it. The point is, you know Maddie is ALWAYS in your thoughts and will be a huge part in her sibling’s life. Forget the naysayers. I wish you ALL THE BEST!
I am SO excited for you both!
.-= Monica (peapodsquadmom)´s last blog ..Sweet Pea’s Big Haircut =-.
Sending my love, thoughts, and prayers your way! You and Mike of all people deserve happiness right now! Congrats! Maddie is smiling that famous smile of hers knowing she’s going to be a big sister!
.-= Hollie´s last blog ..Four letter word =-.
I am so thrilled for you.
.-= mandie´s last blog ..a not so happy face =-.
Aww, so happy for you guys. I’m saying lots of prayers and sending great energy your way. HUGS!!
.-= Leita Reyna´s last blog ..Muddy Muddiness! =-.
I’m a stranger and have never commented until now. This announcement brought a huge smile to my face, and I know Maddie is smiling down at you as well, excited to be a guardian angel to her little sibling. While this will never replace the loss you have, you will definitely find great joy in your new addition. Congrats!
.-= MacKenzie´s last blog ..Girls of Summer =-.
I know this is cold comfort, but what you’ve been doing over these last few months in sharing your story is helping so many people. Not only those who have been in similar situations, but those who haven’t. You’re making us better equipped to help those close to us. Ever since her birth, Maddie and her story have been helping people, and she’s continuing to do so.
Congratulations on your pregnancy. I hope it’s filled with joy.
.-= Kona´s last blog ..Delightfully tacky. =-.
Wow! A huge congratulations to you guys!
Congrats! I am so happy for you both. What amazing news.
Heather (and Mike): Congratulations on your pregnancy. I’m glad that there is a glimmer of hope in your darkness. I hope that glimmer gains strength and can help you pull through the toughest of times.
Also, I read an old issue of Parents (I think) magazine. It had an amazing idea for remembering a lost member of the family. This woman made a suitcase and filled it with memories, pictures and stories. She wrote funny anecdotes, holiday traditions, favorite pass-times, etc (about her father) on note cards. Then when her kids brought out the suitcase they’d each pick a card and the lady would talk tell stories and talk about whatever was written on the card. It was a wonderful memorial, and I know that I’m not really doing it any justice. I just wanted you to know that Baby Spohr can know Maddie intimately, because she’ll always be a part of your life.
.-= Sarah´s last blog ..Pain in My…Gums =-.
I am so incredibly happy for you and Mike. I think Binky has already met Maddie. The keeper of the stars does some amazing things like that.
just wanted to stop by and say congratulation
.-= Pierrette´s last blog ..Things I have learned about customer service =-.
OMG! OMG! OMG! …OMG! I go to bed early a few days in a row and miss THIS HUGE NEWS? Heather, how exciting for you. I know it’s all bittersweet. But, what a way to celebrate Maddie with something JOYFUL. Joy…. God BLESS you and Mike and your family!!!!!!!
.-= Haley-O´s last blog ..WHAT I’M BRINGING TO BLOGHER =-.
I’m so filled with joy for you, Heather. May your pregnancy be healthy and happy, and may you feel Maddie’s light in every nuance of the experience!
I am beyond happy for you guys. Another commenter said it and I agree… that Maddie met her little sibling before it came to you. Congrats sweetie!
Congratulations and so much love to all of you!!! We will all pray for you!! xoxoxo
I want to yell congratulations at the top of my lungs, but I do know that you want both of your children so much. This child will know Maddie through your stories and photos.
Love to you and Mike while you have a calm, safe pregnancy
.-= Spacemom´s last blog ..It looks so wrong that it must be right. =-.
Wow Heather, that is such wonderful news. I am so happy for you.
Bonnie
.-= Bonnie´s last blog ..The look =-.
Heather and Mike, that is so exciting. I am so warm and fuzzy for you both.
Wow, I take a couple days off from the computer and you go and announce you are pregnant! Congratulations!!
WOW Heather.. I just read your blog.. I’m a little behind.. he he! Congrats Sweety!!! You have no Idea how happy I am for you and your hubby. God bless you and Binky!! I so can’t wait to meet the little one (via blog)
Heather, we’ve never “met” but I’ve followed your blog and the love story of Maddie for awhile now.
God bless you and your family. It may not be the family you envisioned a year ago, but it will be a wonderful, joyous, amazing family nonetheless.
Here’s to the next best chapter, still yet to be written, on the magic carpet of your life…
Wishing you a happy and healthy pregnancy = )
Heather & Mike: Congratulations! I am overjoyed at your good news! Praying for all four of you!
I can only imagine the mixed feelings you only hint at here, but I hope overall you guys let the happiness win out. Congratulations to both of you! Hope I get to at least say hi at some point this weekend.
.-= LiteralDan´s last blog ..A conversation with D-: Precious moments =-.
What fantastic news. What a lucky baby to have such wonderful parents and big sister.
xxx
Oh, I am so happy for you. I know this doesn’t ease the hurt of losing Maddy, but I’m so glad for your new joy.
Congratulations!
I’ve been reading your blog for a while now, and I check it every.single.day. My heart goes out to you for all you’ve been through and are still going through. I’m sure Maddie is looking down on you and smiling that adorable smile, knowing that you love her more than words can say.
Best of luck with your pregnancy. I will be praying for you.
I know I’m the almost 900th person to say this, but I am so happy for your family, and without a doubt little Maddie is up in heaven telling your new little one all about the great family s/he is about to come home to.
May God bless you and your family.
Wonderful news! We are thrilled to hear the good news. We will continue to keep you both and Maddie in our thoughts and prayers. I know Maddie is watching over you and Binky.
Hey Heather! I am so happy to read this news about your pregnancy! Your blog is so inspiring and I just wanted to tell you congrats from our family to yours!
I have been silently following your blog for a while now, wanting to comment, but never sure what to say.
I have silently grieved for Maddie and your family, and even though I am thousands of miles away and will never know you personally, I am so thrilled for you.
I will continue to follow your blog and hope that everything goes well for you. I can’t think of anybody who deserves happiness more than you.
Heather –
Good afternoon. Congratulations!
Oh! Good luck!
That’s lovely news.
Congrats.
I hope you find comfort in knowing APS isn’t in and of itself “high risk.”
The last time I stepped away from the blogosphere I returned to your blog to find the saddest news about Maddie. I just cried and cried tears of sorrow. Today after another bit away from the blogosphere I have returned to find the BEST NEWS EVER!!! I am SO HAPPY for you and Mike! I will be keeping you both in my thoughs (as always) and hoping for nothing but the best for this pregnancy. And don’t worry about people thinking that because you have another baby you’ll some how be better. Only idiots would think that and none of us will ever forget Maddie either!!
.-= Leslie´s last blog ..As promised…… =-.
That is the best news! I am smiling ear to ear! I am so happy for you. A heart-felt congratulations to you and your whole family!
.-= Pineapple Princess´s last blog ..Snapshots From Her 90th Birthday =-.
Congratulations! Here is to the next chapter in your life! May God watch over all of you as you embark on this new journey. Maddie is smiling her ginormous smile at you all right now and I bet she will take extra good care of your precious little binky! Take care!
YOU HAVE MADE MY DAY!!!!!!!!!
I will pray for you and baby bun in the oven every single day!!
CONGRATS!!!!
CONGRATULATIONS! I am thrilled to hear the news
I’m sure you’ve got crazy, mixed emotions going on, but I hope that the happy ones will make their presence known. I’m sad that Maddie won’t know her sibling physically, but I’m sure she’ll be his/her Angel – just as I imagine she is yours and Mike’s.
Congrats again! I hope and pray you have a healthy pregnancy and that the Doctors do the best they can!
I had the same blood disorder and lost a baby before we found out. My stomach enjoyed a very close relationship with Heparin throughout my entire pregnancy with our little Milo. If there is any consolation, you will get so used to it that it won’t be a big deal at all through most of the pregnancy. The only time it started to bug me was at the end when my tummy was stretched tight. It is kind of fun to freak people out with the bruises though! I always wanted to put a picture of my black and blue belly on the blog but didn’t want Milo to feel bad when he was older.
Enough of that… Though this pregnancy won’t erase your loss, I am so happy that you will have this hope and joy in your life now. As always, you and Mike (and now little Binky) will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Congratulations! I am so happy for you guys and i am sitting here crying for you once again but happy tears this time. I will be praying for you during this pregnancy.
I am SO happy for you guys! I think it’s a message from Maddie, reminding you not to forget how to love, and I definitely don’t think you’re “better” or “replacing” Maddie, anyone who does is insane. Can’t wait to see the first ultrasound pictures! Will you be posting them or keeping them private? Cause if you keep them private that’s completely okay
Again, congrats!! This is awesome news!
.-= Sarcastica´s last blog ..WHERE’S WALDO? =-.
I wish for you a healthy pregnancy with those fabulous doctors taking the best care of you. Congrats.
.-= Denise´s last blog ..Chargrilled Salmon, Don’t Try This At Home… =-.
Oh my goodness. I just got back after being away for 5 weeks. Congratulations! This is wonderful news. Wishing you a healthy and happy pregnancy.
.-= mamaloves´s last blog ..holidays =-.
I just got back from my honeymoon a week ago and am changing up on my blod reading. Your blog made me smile, I am so happy for you both! I am praying for an uneventful pregnancy and a healthy baby for you!
*catching up on my blog reading, good lord I cannot spell today lol
I’m catching up on your blog – I am SO happy to read the news. Here’s to a happy and healthy nine months of pregnancy. My sister and her husband had a stillborn baby (my little nephew Diego) and they were blessed with another baby. He is nothing short of a miracle since my sister has PCOS and it takes them a very long time to conceive. They have NEVER forgotten Diego and still yearn for him every day but Adam is the reason they were able to smile again. I hope and pray that Binky will be your new reason to smile again too. Congratulations to you both.
I’ve been keeping up with you since Maddie’s death, and read all the way back to your pregancy with her. And when I read this post, I felt so certain that Maddie had something to do with this. You were so connected to her, that I don’t think the connection ended when she left this world. I truly believe that she has been with you this whole time, and wants you to find joy again. And I’m not a religious fanatic in the slightest – it just what I felt. And look, she’s already helping with this pregnancy – what a beautiful, special, angel you have.
Wow. Congratulations. Wishing you joy, happiness, and health!
.-= Karen´s last blog ..Fireworks =-.
I barely discovered your blog and have been reading it backwards (starting with the most recent post). At fist you had me in tears at reading about your devastating loss, but after several posts I started reading your day to day anecdotes about Maddie and they made me laugh and smile. After going back and reading this particular post, I should share with you that before I was born, my parents had another baby, Edgar, who past away at an early 4 months of life from SIDS. When I was old enough, my father told me about this and I was shocked at first, but later (and to this day) consider Edgar my very first guardian angel, and that even though I never met him, I do love him and know that he is looking over me and keeping me safe.
So congratulations and know that your Maddie will ALWAYS be smiling down from above!
I send a giant stranger-hug your way, from south of the border..
-Andrea
I believe Maddie will be watching over Binky, and have knowledge of her sibling. & I know that you and Mike will let Binky know how wonderful and amazing big sister Maddie is/was. She lives on in our memories. *hugs*
such wonderful news! Each child is unique and a miracle as you know. Wishing you a joyful pregnancy(as much as it can be
) and a blessed birth. Even though another child will never fill the void of Maddie, it will bring joy in it’s own way and you will love it just as fiercly.
Congrats!
.-= Melanie B´s last blog ..Wordless Wednesday-My Mom =-.
Congratulations! I hadn’t checked your blog in a week or so and so happy and surprised to hear your news! I hope your migraines quit bugging you and everything goes well throughout the pregnancy. Love the Big Sister T-shirt!
.-= Shera_Mama´s last blog ..A Love Story =-.
CONGRATS!!! it sounds like you are in good hands with this pregnancy. and of course you have heaven’s sweetest angel to watch over binky.
Holy Cats Batman! Obv, I am behind in my blog reading. Congrats to you and Mike, but I can only imagine that it is painful too. Best wishes for a healthy and successful pregnancy and big hugs to both of you.
Congratulations .
I had the exact same fear , mixed emotions of extreme joy and sadness my new babies wouldn’t ever know their sister …if I got that far.
I did !
I also worried people would think I was ‘over’ losing my baby or that I was replacing her. Some did.
One stupid hospital Dr said hey you got two now to make up for the one you lost. As if.
I wish you nothing but happiness and a long smooth pregnancy till Binky is here.
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
.-= trish´s last blog ..Why God made mums ? =-.
“Our greatest fear is that people will think we’re “better” or “over Maddie” because we’re hopefully having another baby. And that couldn’t be farther from the truth.”
What people think shouldn’t matter, as long as you and your family are there for one another throughout these difficult times.
“The whole thing is very high risk, but my doctors are watching me like hawks and checking for EVERYTHING. They’re watching my blood sugar and blood pressure, drawing lots of blood, and viewing the baby through weekly ultrasounds. It’s nuts.”
It’s great to read you have a great support system from your doctors. The best of luck with this baby.
.-= how to deal with people´s last blog ..How to Deal with Slow-moving Investigations on Your Insurance Claims =-.
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