Madeline’s first Christmas was in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, so we went big for her first and only Christmas out of the hospital.
our snow princess, ready for the cold weather
cousins
Maddie with her two favorites, Rigby & Spencer
so excited for Santa Claus to come
Danny and Madeline deep in conversation
I don’t know where all these presents came from, but I like it
Madeline opens her first present from Santa
opening presents is hard, hard work
The Spohr Family, Christmas 2008
Waking up with Madeline snuggled in bed between us was the best present we ever could have asked for.
We miss you so much baby. Merry Christmas, Mommy and Daddy love you for eternity.
{ 136 comments… read them below or add one }
You have the very sweetest angel. The absolute sweetest.
Merry Christmas to all you Spohrs.
.-= Sugar Jones´s last blog ..Happy Birthday, Hannah! =-.
She is possibly the most happy baby I have ever seen, she is so very loved my many <3 Merry Christmas Spohr family, you are in our thoughts and prayers this season
she was gorgeous! I love the photo of maddie with rigby and spencer.
She is and always will be a Christmas Angel. Happy Holdays to you, Mike, Binky and Rigby
Big hugs to you sweetie. What an absolutely beautiful girl.
Aww, sweet Maddie. <3
Merry Christmas to your family. I bet your sweet baby girl is looking down from Heaven & sending you Christmas kisses.
I am sending thoughts and prayers of strength for you & Mike to get through the holidays without her. I am glad Binky is growing and doing well.
How does that song go? "There are holes in the floor of Heaven, and her tears are falling down. That's how we know she's with us, wishing she could be here now…" (hope that's right…you get the idea) <3
I have no words, just love and hugs and smiles.
.-= Kim´s last blog ..Today….. =-.
I don’t think I can say it any better.
May next Christmas be a little sweeter for you.
.-= Amanda´s last blog ..The Dentist – The Ride =-.
My heart is breaking all over again. I remember how she fought with one of her cousins about just paper. Hmmm, fought might be too strong, but I do remember a quarrel…
Next year you will have a wild Christmas with Binky… I am sure she will be as exited as her sister was in seeing all the presents.
Not that long to go anymore Heather and Mike…
Thinking about you guys!
.-= catherine lucas´s last blog ..Swan songs in winter =-.
The internets miss Maddie too… Hope she gets millions of presents and sees tons of lights, angels and choruses while she celebrates Christmas with her Alice and Jesus himself.
I think we will all be thinking of Miss Maddie this Christmas. Those pics are amazing. Maddie=joy. It is impossible not to smile when looking at her. I hope you feel peace this Christmas. Thinking of you.
xo from CT,
Amanda
.-= amanda´s last blog ..oasis =-.
We miss her too Heather and Mike <3
Somehow 'Merry' Christmas doesn't seem right to say. Sending hugs.
We all miss her too. Keeping you all closer to my heart these next few days and wishing you peace. Love you guys.
Love to you all this day and always.
.-= Kate @ UpsideBackwards´s last blog ..Christmas Eve =-.
How much joy she must have been. I miss her too. I’m sending my prayers to you to get through this season and look forward to another one.
My heart is always breaking as I look at the pictures of Maddie. She is a beautiful angel and she is missed so much. Merry Christmas maddie and Merry Christmas Mike, Heather,Binky and Rigby. May the 2010 be a very good Year for your family.
Hugs,
I am thinking of your family a lot during the holiday season. I remember the adorable christmas cards you made with Maddie last year. Do you know every year when i get one from a friend i think how yours was way cooler
I am also sending you prayers this holiday season. Be strong for your little binky. OXO
.-= jen´s last blog ..one more? =-.
Sending lots of love to the five of you today.
Thinking about you this Christmas xx
.-= Alison´s last blog ..Where the Wild Things Are =-.
After reading your blog for almost a year I have come out of hiding to wish you,Mike an Binky a merry Christmas and a happy new year! XOX
Merry Christmas to the sweetest of angels. Merry Christmas to you Heather, Mike, Rigby and Binky. I’ll be thinking about you and sending much love and many hugs.
.-= Lisa´s last blog ..Favorite Christmas Traditions =-.
Merry Christmas Maddie!!!
As always, thank-you not only for sharing the pictures of Maddie but for sharing her and her light.
I wish you much joy in the coming year and I know that Maddie’s light is still shining. It is there, in you all.
.-= Ms. Moon´s last blog ..What I Choose To Celebrate =-.
So well said … thinking of you all today, and sending warmest wishes from Ireland on Christmas day, wishing it could be so different for you heather and mike, but also knowing that through your very special little girl SO much good has been done. She will never be forgotton.
Beautiful pics. Maddie is smiling down sending lots of Angel kisses for you and Mike.
Thinking of you guys and sending lots of Holiday love.
My heart is with you and your family. I hope this holiday brings you some peace. Your memories are shining, as is your daughter.
ciao,
rpm
.-= red pen mama´s last blog ..It’s (Not Always) the Most Wonderful Time of the Year =-.
such a beautiful family..
i love the photo of her on the couch with the bow on her head..
.-= Momma Uncensored´s last blog ..baby sprout =-.
I read this entry, and my automatic thought was, this f___ing sucks.
To a brighter 2010 with a new addition.
No words Heather except to say she is amazingly beautiful. Her winter hat, so precious. Merry Christmas Maddie! So, so many people love you and have you in their heart.
Merry Christmas Mike, Heather, Binky and Rigby. Sending you LOTS of virtual hugs.
Jocelyn (aka stranger/friend in the STL)
Thinking of all of you today and wishing you strength and peace and Madeline size joy in 2010 !
Saying a prayer for you today.
Merry Christmas to all of you.
(Maddie sort of looks like my grandma in that picture of her passed out on the couch, and I mean that in the nicest, most appreciative of people who wear Christmas Wrappings on Their Person way possible. My grandma could never pass up a bow)
I’m wishing you guys a peaceful Christmas this year. I’d like you to know I’ll be thinking of Maddie, and I’ll be thinking of you and Mike and your families.
Sending love- xo
.-= chatty cricket´s last blog ..Narcolepsssszzzzzz… =-.
Those are such beautiful pictures of Maddie and your family. Thinking of you today and tomorrow. Merry Christmas.
.-= Lauren´s last blog ..Norad Tracks Santa =-.
The pictures are beautiful, she is watching you and taking care of her baby sister. I love how much she loved to be with her cousins, so cute
Merry Christmas to you and your family
.-= Stephanie In Canda´s last blog ..Christmas Quiz =-.
The pictures are beautiful….and such a precious gift. I don’t know if it’s possible to have a Merry Christmas this year, but I’m going to wish it for you anyway. May you find some bit of laughter, happiness, love, joy, and hope among the grief.
Merry Christmas to you all! Maddie looks like she had too much eggnog…
.-= Karen Chatters´s last blog ..Wacky Wednesday =-.
Such a gorgeous and heartbreaking post. The photo of Maddie sleeping with the bow in her hair, with her guard dog above her – that one really struck me. I can’t imagine your pain this holiday season, but I hope the joy of Binky-on-the-way helps somewhat. Wishing you and your family, especially precious forever-young Maddie, a Merry Christmas from across the country,
Michele in Staten Island, NY
.-= Michele (Momma Lioness)´s last blog ..Baked =-.
That one struck me too Michelle. Gorgeous girl and her pup..
Wishing you and yours a Merry Christmas however you decide to celebrate. Know personally that holidays can be hard..
Sending all the best for 2010 and the safe and joyful arrival of Binky. Cheers to you all.
Amy in BC Canada
Man her face is just…joy. It is impossible to not smile when looking at her pictures. She had to be the most animated little girl. I am sorry that you are missing her (always), a mother shouldn’t haven’t to go through any day without her child. Thinking of you guys & Maddie!
.-= Sabrina´s last blog ..Busy Busy… =-.
The pic with Maddie & Rigby is soooo cute! Either you’re a great photographer or that little girl had a way of lighting up every single picture (that’s what I’m guessing:) Angels are everywhere & I have no doubt your perfect little angel still snuggles up between you & Mike very night when you sleep. God bless you & yours. You’re in my prayers as always.
Very sweet memories! Tears in my eyes, very beautiful! God Bless through the tough Holiday Season.
Thinking about you today.
Heather and Mike – these are WONDERFUL! I’m crying –
The one of her asleep is so funny and so sweet.
Prayers for you today—xoxo
Dear Heather and Mike,
This is my first visit to your blog. Words can’t express the feelings I am having after reading this post and connecting the dots of your story. I want to say that your precious baby girl has the most beautiful face I think I’ve ever seen. Some of us are in the presence of angels and we don’t realize it; you knew you were. I’m grateful for you to have had the time you had with her. I am so terribly heartbroken that she’s gone. My love to you, your husband and to your new baby on the way. I pray a special blessing for you all! May bless you today and always.
.-= Leslie´s last blog ..O Holy Night =-.
Merry Christmas to you, Mike, Maddie, Binky, and Rigby!
Thank you for sharing these beautiful photos.
Merry Christmas Spohr Family…
Love & Hugs
Merry Christmas, Heather
I can’t imagine how difficult this Christmas is for you and your family. We love you and are thinking of you all…Kisses to that Binky of yours too!
.-= jeffra´s last blog ..Thanks Giving… =-.
It is amazing how her spirit just shines through in the photos. Someone said she just might be the happiest baby ever, and wow- I can see that. What a joyful girl, and so very loved. All the photos are wonderful, and the sleeping one with the bows (she and Rigby) really makes me smile. I’m thinking of you this Christmas and hoping you find some peace in the memories and in knowing just how blessed Maddie is to have you as her mom and dad.
ZOMG! I don’t remember that picture of her asleep with the bow on her head.
That just made my Christmas right there.
I miss her so so much.
I agree with Sabrina. Her face is pure Joy. Everytime I see her little face and those huge blue eyes I melt. If she were my little girl, I would’ve constantly been kissing on that little face and smothering her with hugs. Merry Christmas to you, Maddie, Binky and Rigby!
Merry Christmas to your entire family!!!
I am sure this holiday is full of memories of what was and thoughts of what’s to come with little binky. Your Maddie was so full of light in those pictures I can hardly stop looking at them. She embodied the kind of happines we all strive to have! I hope that the beautiful memories and time with your amazing family & friends keeps you guys going thru the next few days!
Take care Spohr family!
Brooke
Merry Christmas baby girl. Even though I only knew you from the cyber world, and for a short time, you made a huge impact on my life.
Love and hugs to you, Mike and Heather.
Aww, what a beautiful baby Maddie is. Those pictures are so fun-what wonderful memories you have with her.
Merry Christmas to you all.
.-= Tara.´s last blog ..It’s a Wrap. =-.
What a precious baby!!! I can’t being to imagine the void that has been left in your lives. My hope is that you find a sense of peace this holiday season and hold tight all the precious memories of sweet Maddie!
much love to to you, Mike and Heather
I love the photo of her on the couch, asleep.
Thank you for sharing the pictures with us-they were beautiful.
Sending you lots of warm thoughts this holiday!
.-= Scattered Mom´s last blog ..Giving =-.
Big tears in my eyes after reading that and looking at all the pictures.
So not fair!!!!
Somehow, I wish a Blessed Christmas to ALL of you!!!
She has the most infectious smile I have ever seen. Ever time I see it, I smile huge.
Merry Christmas to the Spohr family!
I read your blog every day but have never commented before. I was thinking about you this morning – about how hard today and tomorrow will be for you. I just want you to know that you and Maddie and your family have made a huge impact on me. I look at life differently now. I appreciate people more and I don’t sweat the small stuff as much. Your Maddie has done that for me – and I am so grateful!
I am glad that Binky keeps growing and getting stronger every day. You are a wonderful mama
Sending you love and hope this Christmas!
These photos are absolutely wonderful! They bring tears to my eyes & joy to my heart. Maddie was an incredible angel here on earth & she continues to bless us all from up above. Merry Christmas!
Sending love from San Diego!
What a lovely tribute. Thinking of you all.
(((hugs)))
.-= Deborah´s last blog ..New Drawing =-.
{oops! I forgot to add my last name to my twitter handle & just linked to another Kylene. Feel free to delete previous comment.}
These photos are absolutely wonderful! They bring tears to my eyes & joy to my heart. Maddie was an incredible angel here on earth & she continues to bless us all from up above. Merry Christmas!
Sending love from San Diego!
Thanks for sharing Maddie’s First Christmas. She’s gorgeous. She’s made quite an impact and will be remembered forever by people who have never even met her.
.-= Rebecca´s last blog ..My Bra And What Fills It =-.
Oh Heather. I’ve been thinking about you guys a lot today. Next Christmas there will be magic for you again. It won’t be the same without Maddie, I know, but you *will* have happy Christmases someday. xoxo
.-= cindy w´s last blog ..my experience with socialized medicine =-.
I’m so sorry you’re spending Christmas without your baby. Love those photos! Maddie is such a firecracker. She made a sweet cameo in one of my dreams a couple nights ago: I dreamed I was stuffing stockings, and Maddie’s was one of them! I filled it with a beautiful bouquet of purple flowers.
Anyways, I will be sending your family good thoughts and sponsoring some Friends of Maddie NICU packs for Christmas morning!!
That first photo is the cutest picture I have every seen. A little bundle of Christmas. I love her and Rugby asleep on the sofa, adorable. You are in my thoughts and in my prayers. I am truly sorry for the way you must celebrate Christmas this year without your sunshine. ((HUGS))
.-= Debby´s last blog ..THE EVE OF CHRISTMAS =-.
I’m so sorry. It just stinks and that’s all there is to it.
Words just don’t cut it sometimes. I am so, so sorry. Praying for you all and Binky.
She is truly the most beautiful baby that I have ever seen, and I had six of my own. She has an angel face…Thinking about you all as you try to get through this first Xmas without your baby. This is our fourth without Tomás and it has been a little easier. New life helps. Hugs,Rachel
OOhhh, this made me burst out in tears. She should be here this Christmas!!! Life can be so unfair!!!!
I love the picture of Maddie sleeping on the couch. It’s the first time I have seen that one. Beatufiul, precious baby girl!!!
I hope you fair okay today and tomorrow. Remember how many of us are thinking of you both and praying for your whole family.
I wish you nothing but the BEST for 2010!!!
Thank you for sharing your life with us. You have touched so many people…as has Maddie and Mike.
Merry Christmas Heather, Mike,Maddie, Binky & Rigby,
Love,
Your Canadian Friend,
Jenn
Those photos just take my breath away, especially the one where she’s sleeping on the couch and Rigby is above her. So precious. It just doesn’t get any cuter than that. Rigby really was her little guard dog and best friend.
Your little girl has made such an impact on my life. I think about her everyday, and as I look into the faces of my own children, I see Maddie sometimes, and it helps me to be a better mommy. I don’t know if that sounds weird to you, but it’s true.
You are in my thoughts & prayers.
Merry Christmas
.-= Katrina´s last blog ..Growing Up Too Fast! =-.
Merry Christmas, Maddie, Mike, Heather, Binky, and Rigby!
xoxo
.-= Alison´s last blog ..It’s the Most Twinful Time of the Year =-.
You’re all in my thoughts lately . . . I wish you love and peace this Christmas.
Beautiful pictures!!! Merry Xmas Heather, Mike, Maddie, Binky & Rigby! May the New Year 2010 be filled with much LOVE, HEALTH, AND MUCH HAPPINESS & JOY!!!! XXXX
She looks absolutely adorable in her snow princess attire. She looks happy as ever. I also adore the one of her asleep on the couch. She’s so beautiful…I miss her so very much.
I type this through tears – as that was a lovely tribute to Maddie, as are all your posts. But I had to say – the shot of her surrounded by gifts with her hands in the air is adorable. The caption made me laugh through the tears.
Merry Christmas to you, Mike, Binky and Rigby. May 2010 bring you joy, health and peace.
Merry Christmas, and much love to you all.
Baby Maddie’s smile lights me up every day…thanks to the strength of her mama who makes sure she is always remembered.
Heather, you continue to inspire me with how you honor your beautiful daughter, & I continue to pray for your family every day. May 2010 be a year of healing and love and joy. Warm hugs and wishes on Christmas.
.-= Kelly´s last blog ..2 nights before Christmas =-.
I want it to be May for you. All these first anniversaries are so gut wrenching. I guess they always will be to some extent but this has to be the toughest. She really is the most smiley baby ever. Thanks for this post. You’re so sweet to share her with us. We’re all with you and thinking of you so much. I hope you’re feeling ok. Take it easy.
My sentiments were expressed so many times above it seems almost pointless to be redundant.
That said, the Spohr family is always in my thoughts and I wish you the warmest of holiday seasons!
.-= Rick Bucich´s last blog ..Author Rank and Search Engines =-.
Oh Heather and Mike… That’s all I can come up with other than I’m thinking of your family/families and sending love and care to you. (((Hugs)))
Thinking of you all today, tomorrow and always. Merry Christmas Spohrs! I love ya’ll, we all love you!!! XOXO
.-= AmazingGreis´s last blog ..Letter to Santa… =-.
I remember all that like it was yesterday. I can’t believe it. I still can’t believe it. Love you guys.
.-= Aunt Becky´s last blog ..The Holidays Always Bring Univited Guests. Like Robots From The Future. =-.
What a gorgeous angel. Thank you for sharing your memories with us. I have to echo was a previous poster said, I didn’t know Maddie but she has made a great impact on my life. She helps me remember how important it is to cherish every moment you have, and to make extra time for those you love. Merry Chistmas and Best Wishes for the New Year.
This is my first time commenting here, though I’ve known about Maddie for awhile.
I just want to say her face is luminescent; not sure I’ve ever seen a happier baby.
From a Mom who spent many months in the NICU with my preemie, I am so sorry for your loss.
.-= 6512 and growing´s last blog ..Not such a great start to the morning =-.
So sorry that Christmas this year is not what you had hoped or imagined. It just ain’t fair and it sucks big time. Saying a prayer for you, Mike, Rigby, your families, Binky… but especially Maddie. Always Maddie. loving and hugging so much from NJ this painful season. May the sweet kicks of Binky bring a little sunshine this season.
Heather and Mike,
Those are some of the best pictures I’ve ever seen, always that beautiful smile, and twinkling eyes, I have had you and Maddie on my heart ever since I met you through your words in your blogs, I feel privileged to have gotten to read about your amazing Maddie! Thank you so much for sharing such a precious gift with us! I hope the future brings you much joy and filled with all of your hearts desires, I don’t know two who deserve it more! I know this Christmas has to be awful for you, there’s just no getting around it are they? I say a prayer for you on a regular basis, I dont think there’s a day that goes by that me and my girls don’t think of you, and they beg to watch Maddie’s video’s! Raina said she wish she could go to heaven and get Maddie and bring her back to you and Mike for Christmas, I said oh Raina how I wish we could do that for them, I am sure they would be smiling if they knew that was your gift to them(and if course it was possible) but just wanted you to know, even my children thinks and loves your
Maddie, Jada points and says “The Jada’s friend” she of course see’s that maddie is around her size, how I wish they could play everyday!!!
hugs and prayers,
This Christmas Season,
The Jordan’s
Prayers, hugs, and love to you on a difficult Christmas Eve. Maddie is celebrated and adored by so many, and Binky is anticipated with so much hope and joy. Again, love to the Spohr family.
Prayers and love coming your way from New York this Christmas.
.-= charlane´s last blog ..A New Christmas Classic =-.
Just….such a doll, she is.
Faith….Hope….Love….Peace.
.-= mythoughtsonthat´s last blog ..This I Know =-.
Wishing you peace, and hoping the warm memories of your beautiful, amazing girl sustain you this Christmas.
Her spirit, and your family continue to inspire me every day.
Your pictures make my heart ache and my throat hurt, so bittersweet.
Love to your family
Heather and Mike how I wish Madeline was waiting to open a present from Santa, snuggled up with her Mama and Daddy.
I think of you all so very often and am mindful of the great blessings in all the simple moments I have with my loved ones.
As I have said before, the courage and grace you have as you share your precious children and the life of your wonderful family with all of us is breathtaking. I am so grateful to you and send you love and wishes for a New Year that will bring a happy and healthy Binky and much love and adventure.
I remember Maddie every day and I smile.
.-= Kelly´s last blog ..Thank You =-.
Such a sad time for you and Mike I know. Maddie made Christmas so special! Your pictures from last year are really priceless.. especially the one of her crashed on the couch! Love it!
Next year will be easier, and full of joy with the new baby Binky…. but will always be missing that special Maddie presence. Bless you two (three!!)… thanks for sharing tonight… she will never be forgotten!
The picture of Maddie with the bow, fast asleep is precious (as they are). Once again, thank you so much for sharing so much of her with all of us. Merry Christmas!
I am lifting you all up in prayer and wishing you a very Merry Christmas!!
.-= Upstatemomof3´s last blog ..Christmas Traditions =-.
Hugs and prayers are with you today.
Merry Christmas Heather, to you and your family. Maddie is the brightest star in the sky, so gorgeous.
xoxo
.-= Sarcastica´s last blog ..A Girl’s Gonna Do =-.
What wonderful photos, thank you for sharing them!
I hope you, Mike and Rigby can find some joy in the holidays, you’ll be in my thoughts.
I read your words everyday and have never given you any of mine.
This post, Heather, was absolutely beautiful.
Merry Christmas.
.-= Jodi´s last blog ..When I Woke Up This Mornin’ I Thought It Was Yesterday =-.
I love the picture of her under the tree surrounded by presents with that huge, sweet smile, and the one of her sleeping on the couch. She’s such a sweet, happy little girl, loved so much by so many. You’re all in my thoughts tonight.
Heather,
I was sent this poem, the first Christmas my Mom spent with Jesus. it was such a comfort to me, as I hope it will be for you. Your little Maddie is the most beautiful, perfect, little smiley face, angel I have ever seen. Thank you for sharing her with us.
God Bless you and your family this Christmas, and always!
~Debbie~
I’m Spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this Year
I see the countless Christmas trees,
Around the world below.
With tiny lights, like heaven’s stars,
Reflecting on the snow.
The sight is so spectacular,
Please wipe away that tear.
For I’m spending Christmas,
With Jesus Christ this year.
I hear the many Christmas songs,
That people hold so dear.
But the sounds of music can’t compare,
With the Christmas choir up here.
For I have no words to tell you,
The joy their voices bring.
For it is beyond description,
To hear the angels sing.
I can’t tell you of the splendor,
Or the peace here in this place.
Can you just imagine Christmas,
With our Savior, face to face?
I’ll ask Him to light your spirit,
As I tell Him of your love.
So please pray one for another,
As I lift your eyes above.
Please let your hearts be joyful,
And let your spirit sing.
For I’m Spending Christmas in Heaven,
And I’m walking with the King.
Beautiful pictures. I have been thinking about you today. Merry Christmas and tons of prayers for a happy and blessed 2010.
so much love to you on Christmas and beyond.
xo
.-= Domestic Extraordinaire´s last blog ..Peace & Joy =-.
i personally think, Christmas fucking sucks big ass donkey balls.
.-= gorillabuns´s last blog ..May 2010 be filled with love, peace and grace….land. =-.
Yep…pretty much.
Thinking of you and sending love.
Merry Christmas. My thoughts are with you.
I showed my whole family Maddie’s pictures, and everyone agreed she was the happiest little girl that they had ever seen. We all send our prayers and love and wish you peace this holiday season and every day to follow.
.-= Page´s last blog ..Check it Out: Treasury Slideshow =-.
Thinking of you, Mike and Rigby. I’m so sorry Maddie isn’t here to celebrate Christmas with you. Peace, love and hugs from KY
Just wanted to say that I’m thinking of you and your family today.
.-= Amanda´s last blog ..Sunday – Blow By Blow =-.
Merry, merry Christmas.
.-= Amanda´s last blog ..If you only listen =-.
Merry Christmas to your angel in heaven.
.-= Andrea´s last blog ..Merry Christmas (Eve)! =-.
your pictures, as always, are all beautiful. but that first one of maddie dressed up for the snow absoultey takes my breath away.
thinking of you guys today,
karen
Such beautiful pictures of the most beautiful little girl.
Thinking of your family this Christmas and praying for you always.
Merry CHRISTmas Spohr Family.
XOXO
Merry Christmas. Thinking of you tonight.
Steph
.-= Adventures In Babywearing´s last blog ..We wish you a =-.
Merry Christmas Heather and Mike. Hope you had a wonderful day filled with thoughts of a wonderful future.
I have no words but I do wish you, Mike and Rigby a very Merry Christmas!
Your family is in my daily thoughs and prayers.
Merry Christmas Spohrs!
.-= Dawn´s last blog ..the True Meaning of Christmas =-.
3rd Christmas for Trevor. My 2nd year without him. I made him a Christmas card by hand today with a little kit I got at Wal Mart. His baby brother is the spitting image of him but so different in personality. And these are my Grand kids. I can’t imagine what you two are specifically going through, I do know that when the resemblance is more towards 75% or higher it is harder. Binky will definitely be a Blessing as you know in her very own special Princess way, I just know to this day, I can’t hold the baby without thinking of his older brother. I will be Praying Hard for you over the coming years. I hope its easier for you then me. My autism says I tend to focus (true) more intensely on the small amount of things I do and I obsess so again, Many Prayers for it to be easier. xoxo, Kandi
.-= Kandi Ann´s last blog ..Tas13: as scary as it sounds, I want to be officially diagnosed. Any one know how? =-.
Her light still radiates in every photo. So sorry you’re spending this day, and all the others, without her in your arms.
.-= Trish´s last blog ..Fine* =-.
I’m so sorry that Christmas sucks big ass donkey balls for you…and gorillabuns!!!! Damn it!
*hugs and more hugs**
.-= Kellee´s last blog ..A Christmas Walk (and a minor nod to WTF Friday) =-.
I always wish I could say something wise in this space. Just know that we ache for you. And that Maddie is always remembered.
There are no words. May God pour out his mercy and comfort upon you and your precious family. Sending you love.
Merry Christmas!
.-= Ashley´s last blog ..Merry Christmas =-.
much love to all of you. God Bless!
Hi Heather and Mike,
I am in LA at the moment, visiting from Australia to spend time with my fam for the holidays. I was making a list today of the friends I wanted to catch up with while I am here and you guys actually popped into my head. I know so many people don’t understand the blogging world, but i know we are friends in that weird internet world we live in. I felt validated in that when i just watched your video link on headline news and was saying “preach it, sista” to you on my screen. Your blog is such a source of encouragement and perspective for me every day. I just wanted you guys to know I am thinking of you during this crappy holiday season and am also thinking about Maddie, and saying to myself when i look at her gorgeous pictures, “i still cannot believe she is gone.” I am still sitting in the shock department. I just wanted you to know i still think about her all the time, and especially when i see purple, hear the name Maddie, or hear about a baby being born premature. i am more conscious about being grateful for every day i get to have the people i love on the planet. i just hope that this holiday season can hurry up and be over so we don’t all have to think about all the people that aren’t here…
Tummy pats and big hugs to all of you,
Heidi (in Palos Verdes this time!)
I read quite often but rarely comment but these gorgeous pics of Maddie just beg to be recognized. She is the most beautiful Christmas angel ever.
.-= Kristin´s last blog ..Our Fantabulous Christmas =-.
What beautiful memories. I rarely comment – as I often just don’t know what to say. But you are in my thoughts so often, and we’ve never even met or talked to each other. My heart breaks for you and I don’t think I ever leave your site without tears. Merry Christmas Heather and I hope that next year will be full of wonder for you and your family. You deserve the world. Love, Colleen
.-= ClassyMommy´s last blog ..Xbox DJ Hero Bundle Giveaway =-.
It seems like I am one of the many that read…but may not comment. Well I am also one of the many to comment today. You are a true hero! I cant imagine doing what you do every day. Madeline is a true angel….and I love reading what you write about her life…and about her little sisters life in the making.
I have to say that I am glad that Christmas is over, now you can look forward to a new year, filled with new joy. My love to you all.
xo Tina
Thank you for continuing to share your precious memories of Maddie with us. Your hearts are so beautiful!
.-= Shawna´s last blog ..NaBloMoPo =-.
I’m so glad Christmas is over. You crossed that hurdle.One by one, you’ll knock them down. They don’t get easier, but the first one gets you ready for the next.
You’ll have a much better Christmas next year, snuggling your tears into Binky’s neck.
Hopes and hugs for you and Mike.
Just think, next Christmas you’ll have a beautiful baby girl to snuggle with.
She’s always in our hearts. Thank you for ensuring that! <3
.-= Mishi´s last blog ..36 Months =-.
So beautiful. Such wonderful photos.