We’re back from Chicago and I am exhausted.
It was a really good, but emotional, weekend. I met so many people but I know I missed so many others. It’s impossible to meet everyone you want to when there are 1,400 people in one place, but it’s still a bit of a bummer.
I want to thank all of you who came up to me to give hugs, cards, gifts, support, and love. It meant so much to put faces and voices to your online names and words. That was absolutely the highlight of my trip.
I had three amazing roommates and I am so glad I was able to spend so much time with them.
The conference itself was great and I wish I’d been able to go to more sessions. Unfortunately, I woke up Saturday morning with a headache, and it still hasn’t gone away at 11:30 Sunday night. Flying with a migraine is something I hope I never have to do again. Because of my headache, I spent a large majority of the conference in my room in an attempt to make it go away. Tylenol (the strongest thing I’m allowed to take) would make the pain temporarily manageable, so I did venture out a bit on Saturday. In the morning I got my hair done at a booth sponsored by Suave, and I waited in a line to meet my favorite part of “Project Runway,” Tim Gunn. Or as I like to call him, Timmy.
Right before I met Timmy, I was interviewed by BlogTalk Radio. You can listen to the entire interview here.
I also left my room on Saturday to go to a bowling party. The bowling alley was across the street from the hotel. An easy walk for anyone, unless you are me. I fell down in a spectacular way right in front of Lucky Strike. I stepped in a hole and when I realized I couldn’t recover, I put out my left arm while my right arm cradled my camera and belly. So my left arm, both ankles, and left hip are a disaster. But luckily no blood or bruising, so I didn’t have to take a trip to the emergency room.
After bowling we stopped by the annual CheeseburgHer party, where I donned the attire of the natives:
Unfortunately, my headache forced me to retire before I had a cheeseburger. There’s always next year.
Friday was the big day for me, when I stood up in front of 1,400 people to read an entry from my blog. This is what 1,400 people looks like:
Even though I’ve spoken in front of ten thousand people at the March for Babies, I was very nervous about the keynote. I read this post. EDITED TO ADD: Now, thanks to Amazing Greis, there is video:
Twenty other amazing bloggers participated in the keynote, you can read about them here. I was honored to be chosen, honored to speak in front of a room full of writers, honored to thank so many people for supporting Mike and me the last 15 weeks and six days.
The emotions of the weekend caught up with me on Sunday morning. I read lots of tweets about bloggers missing their children, and that was hard since they were lucky enough to go home to them. Last year, Maddie was with my parents during BlogHer. This year, I had almost convinced myself that she was with them again. Then I had a terrible nightmare that reminded me she was not. At the airport, I saw children everywhere, little girls around the age Maddie would be, dancing around. I missed her so deeply I broke down crying. I hate crying in public, but sometimes it’s all just too much. Throw in a migraine and extreme nausea and it was pretty much the worst morning I’ve had in a while.
So we are home, back to real life. Except it still doesn’t feel like my life.
Seraphim says:
I wish that it wasn’t your life for you. But like so many others Heather, we are all here supporting you in any way we can as you and Mike travel this hard road.
Thank you for sharing about your BlogHer experience. We don’t have anything like that in Australia. Maybe next year I’ll get to come to NY for it and meet you Mike and Binkie?
Hugs xxxx
.-= Seraphim´s last blog ..Please =-.
Lauren says:
I can’t relate to what you’ve been going through but I’m glad that you had a good time @ BlogHer despite the headache and falling on your ass.
.-= Lauren´s last blog ..Your love gives me such a thrill but your love won’t pay my bills I want MONEY. =-.
Bec says:
I’m glad you had a good time despite the headache. Big huge hugs, the trip home must have been very difficult
.-= Bec´s last blog ..Favorite five fabrics =-.
Backpacking Dad says:
I don’t have enough pictures with you. Never enough.
.-= Backpacking Dad´s last blog ..Widdershins =-.
maya says:
I have a picture of you guys!
http://www.flickr.com/photos/geminigirl64/3759745159/
.-= maya´s last blog ..Get to Know Gemini-Girl (Blogher ‘09) =-.
Bec says:
You still amaze me woman. You are *incredible*.
.-= Bec´s last blog ..Favorite five fabrics =-.
lisa wood says:
Heather…wished Maddie was there at the end waiting for you.
Wished you had a better weekend with no headache….speaking of which Heather get that headache checked out real quick…its not good to have a headache when pregnant.
Best wishes and love sent your way…hope the hip feels better and the bruises go quickly.
You look gorgeous with your hair done and that beautiful dress….stunning.
Cheers
Lisa
.-= lisa wood´s last blog ..Cute Kids =-.
catherine lucas says:
I was curious as to what the weekend would bring for you guys. I knew that a lot of bloggers were going to be there, and I wondered if some would come up to you… Love that burgundy dress you are in, my, and a soft curve already…
It does not matter whether Binkie will be boy or girl, as long as it is healthy I suppose… As Mike says: if only we could have one more minute with our passed away loved ones…
.-= catherine lucas´s last blog ..Scones and a phone entrance point… =-.
Kathryn says:
I love seeing pics of you again!! You’re funny with the McD’s bag on your head and I love seeing your little belly curve…makes me happy to see that :o)
That really is a bummer that you didn’t feel well for most of your trip…hope that headache is totally gone now and will stay away!
Thinking of you as always!
Kathryn
.-= Kathryn´s last blog ..What do you want to be when you grow up? And hospital visit number two =-.
Kate in NZ says:
I’m so sorry about the headache, it sounds miserable. But I’m pleased you went to Chicago and were able to meet a few of these online friends who wish you well. I hope you can hang on to the good times, in hours of need. Get well soon!
.-= Kate in NZ´s last blog ..Food, glorious food =-.
Tami says:
I wish I could of been one the lucky ones that got to meet you and give you a hug. I did feel your pain as far as the a headache ,as I suffered one most of Sat. and Sun. I admire you for geting up and speaking in front of that many people, that is something I would never be able to do.. You look very stunning in the pictures by the way. I know it was hard to not have Maddie with you , but I am glad you went and and was able to be honored by so many people.
Hugs,
Stacey says:
I’ve been following your bog for a few months… probably since it was linked to another blog when Maddie passed. It’s broken my heart to read it, but I also loved hearing your stories of Maddie– your love and hopes for her. I hoped that I, nor anyone else I loved, would ever have to endure such a tragedy. However, on July 19th my twin boys were born at 13 weeks and two days later my son Connor passed away. As I stood there watching him with dangerous O2 saturation levels it reminded me of you and Maddie’s battle. I guess I just wanted you to know that you’ve become sort of a inspiration. I’ve seen you and Mike survive despite the permanent hole in your heart and I know that John and I can, too. It’s not fair and life won’t ever be the same… but it’s possible. So, thank you for that.
Stacey says:
… 13 weeks early, I mean. 27 weeks.
.-= Stacey´s last blog ..Yesterday =-.
Lynn from For Love or Funny says:
I’m so sorry you didn’t feel well during the conference. I wish I could have been there to say hello.
You looked beautiful!
.-= Lynn from For Love or Funny´s last blog ..Mother Nature Stinks =-.
Rebecca (Ramblings by Reba) says:
I’m glad you had a good time. Sorry about the headache.
.-= Rebecca (Ramblings by Reba)´s last blog ..Happy “Curves”iversary to me… 25 and counting… =-.
Christine says:
Hugs Heather. Hoping that the headache goes away quickly.
.-= Christine´s last blog ..Titles =-.
AmazingGreis says:
It was so great to finally meet you. You are just as beautiful in real life as you are on the internet. You did a great job during the keynote. I’m uploading the video now and will send to you as soon as it’s finished.
I’m bummed I didn’t get a picture with you, but next year it’s on.
Hugs to you my friend.
XOXO
.-= AmazingGreis´s last blog ..3 days… =-.
Amanda says:
Love the cheeseburger hat. I was on twitter when you sent it out and had it up when my husband walked by. The only comment was: she looks pretty good in a McDonalds hat. He then followed it up with something to the effect that if he was there he bet that he could out eat all of ‘the ladies’ in cheeseburger eating – i guess he though it was some sort of eating game?
The world, like the owl on the tootsie roll pop commercial, will never know.
In all seriousness though – the site of your little baby bump makes me smile – and yes, tear up a little. I’m wondering if maybe you will give this almost old enough to be your mom a small pass when I meet in you September at TypeA on the crying thing? I’ve spent a couple of years and dollars in therapy learning to grieve and cry The good news is that I’m getting really really good at it. The bad news is that apparently you have to spend MORE money and MORE time learning how to turn it off.
Finally – please please watch out for yourself with these bruises and this headache. if they turn red, burn, hurt – get yourself to the doctor. Please promise?
.-= Amanda ´s last blog ..Sometimes It Sucks To Be Different =-.
Angi says:
Just <>.
.-= Angi´s last blog ..Welcom =-.
annie says:
heather~ you are truly an inspiration! i wish i could have been at blogher and told you that in person.
.-= annie´s last blog ..Line Up =-.
Kristen McD says:
CheeseburgHer Party Hat – you certainly made it work.
Liz says:
The past few days my baby has been teething and it is making us both crazy. Whenever I have a moment where I want to scream with her, I just think of you and your loss and how lucky I am to even be going through this.
I hope that comes out right…I’m trying to say that you inspire me to be grateful for everything because nothing is promised and each day, each moment is a gift.
It’s a lesson I try to remember each day and put into practice via patience, love and understanding, something I try to put out into the world, hoping it comes back to me.
Wishing you and your husband all the best on this journey. It’s a shame that your path has taken you here and for that I am incredibly sorry.
.-= Liz´s last blog ..Friday =-.
Lindsay from Florida says:
You’re just the definition of awesome. What else is there to say?
Becky says:
I miss you.
Rachel says:
I am sorry that the trip home was hard for you, and sorry that you had a headache! I hope you are feeling better now!
Would it make you feel any better if I told you that your boobs look fabulous in the purple dress? And that I’m totally jealous? Or would that just be weird?
.-= Rachel´s last blog ..The Crazy =-.
Deborah says:
Sounds like a wonderful, yet horrible weekend, all at the same time. I’m so proud of you for going and working through the pain. And I’d like to add that you are looking very boobalicious!
.-= Deborah´s last blog ..New Etsy Listings =-.
DesignHER Momma says:
Heather,
You were the picture of grace, beauty and poise whenever I saw you all weekend.
I can only imagine the emotional drain from this past weekend, so get some rest (pretty sure everyone who was at Blogher needs a little Monday snooze).
Anyway, the short amount of time we did get to hang out was fantastic, I’m so glad you came.
We all love you and support you. take care my friend!
.-= DesignHER Momma´s last blog ..Being Blown away in the Windy City… =-.
Christy says:
Heather,
Maybe one day I will be able to put into words how thankful I am to you for sharing your life during this time of trying to continue without Maddie. I am struggling as I watch my third child lose her battle with a disease that is taking over her mind and body, and reading your posts has been so helpful. You and Mike are beautiful people. I hope each day brings more healing and precious memories of your sweet daughter.
Thank you and many blessings,
Christy
.-= Christy´s last blog ..We’ve Got Wood! =-.
charlane says:
Heather,
Sound like a busy weekend. TIm Gunn, how do I contain my jealously!
.-= charlane´s last blog ..And Mommy gets presents too… =-.
Trisha says:
Heather,
I am a migraine suffere myself and pregnancy migraines were a plenty when I was expecting. Tylenol is my drug of choice all the time due to an awful aspirin allergy so my tolerance level is quite high for tyleno before it actaully works for me. A trick I found that helped was, to lay down with ice packs around my head and neck and a heating pad around my feet. Sounds bizarre, I know, but it works. The heat helps to draw some of the intense blood flow down to your feet while the ice pack restrict the vessels around your head to ease up the pain a little. I usually do this in 15 minutes intervals for about 2 hours and it helps tremendously.
I am sure your speech was wonderful and you looked amazing.
I am sure your Maddie was just beaming with pride watching you from above.
((HUGS))) from Deltona,Florida
Trisha says:
Shoot! sorry for all the typos.
Jamie says:
First off, you looked fantastic in your picture with Tim Gunn. Absolutely beautiful.
Don’t worry about crying in public. I do it, for less profound reason than you. I’m a “cryer”, which isn’t that awesome, but you get over the funny looks after a while.
.-= Jamie´s last blog ..Waiting is the hardest part =-.
Jennifer says:
How cool about Timmy!
I’m sorry about your headache–I get migraines too and I know how they have a way of completely ruining things.
I totally ditched BlogHer. Had my tix for months, but this weekend I just didn’t feel like going…
.-= Jennifer´s last blog ..Whatchoo Talkin’ ‘Bout? =-.
Mary says:
Just ((()))
AnnD says:
It sounds like you had some ups and downs this past weekend. I’m just thankful you had some ups. I really admire you for getting up in front of all of those people to speak. I wish I could have been there, I probably would have cried though. It does make a difference, what you and and Mike and Maddie have done, I will never let a year pass without donating to the MOD now. You were the celebrity to me, I would have stood in line to have my photo taken with you. Tim Gunn should be honored…
P.S. You looked HOT in that dress! Just beautiful!
ali (adil320) says:
I’m glad you had fun, but I’m annoyed a headache had to rain on your parade. I have heard that your keynote was beautiful, but I had no doubt that it was. When Meghan tweeted that you were on, I watched Mike and yours tribute video to Miss Maddie and sent you all the strength that I could.
No more falling on ditches pretty lady! I’ll be showing up in cali with some bubblewrap if you try anything like that again, I need you up and going for BlogHer10!
Much love to you,Mike, Ribgy and of course sweet Maddie and the Binky-babe.
.-= ali (adil320)´s last blog ..BlogHer@Home =-.
melissa/bostonmama79 says:
I watched your video. Beautiful.
Patty says:
Oh honey I think of you all the time! I wish I could wave a wand and make everything how it should be! I am so sorry that you have this terrible headache, I know how it is as I suffer from them as well and for you being pregnant it makes meds for it pretty much out. Do try to rest and I hope it goes away very soon! Your maddie is with ya and I’m sure she is definitely with little binky!
.-= Patty´s last blog ..I’m BAAAAAACK!!! =-.
Kristen says:
Heather, you look absolutely ‘stunning’ in the words of Mr. Tim Gunn! So glad you had a great time, and terribly sorry you weren’t feeling quite up to par to enjoy more of it.
XOXO for you, Mike, Maddie, Rigby and Binky!
Notesfromthegrove says:
I wish I could’ve been one of those people to hug you over the weekend. Just know that I’m hugging you in my mind ;o)
.-= Notesfromthegrove´s last blog ..Award Time! =-.
maya says:
Loved rooming with you guys. I think you held up with such grace and poise. You are an inspiration to many Heather.
I wish Maddie was home to come back to. When I came home and saw the girls, I felt your pain within my soul. You are never ever far from my thoughts.
As for the fall- WOMAN you know what I’m going to say.
Love you always.
.-= maya´s last blog ..Get to Know Gemini-Girl (Blogher ‘09) =-.
Dawn says:
I love you both.
Lisa says:
I was hoping to meet you this weekend at BlogHer, but missed you and I was at the Cheeseburger party! Oh well, maybe next year.
I missed the keynote but heard you were awesome.
.-= Lisa´s last blog ..Lisa’s Contest Roundup – Week of July 27th =-.
tonya says:
Hugs and prayers for you. But no sad clown faces, promise.
Kristy @ Mommy In Pink says:
I had no idea you were pregnant again, it’s been a couple of weeks since i’ve been back. Congrats to you and your family! I will be praying for you!
I heard what a huge crowd you had at the keynote, that is amazing, I wish I would have been there in person, I too am fighting some wicked morning sickness and wasn’t able to make it this year!
All the best,
Kristy
.-= Kristy @ Mommy In Pink´s last blog ..Top 10 Reasons I am Excited to Stay Home with My Family This Coming Weekend =-.
Kathy says:
I’m sorry about that darn headache, but I LOVE your pic with my favorite, Tim Gunn!
Erin says:
I was thinking of you this weekend, you look GREAT! Your pics are always so wonderful! Sorry the headache and emotions cought up with you in the end, but you cant be THAT strong all the time. You already amaze me with your strength! Welcome home!!!! Hope a video surfaces soon!
.-= Erin ´s last blog ..Sleep Tight =-.
Sarah says:
So nice to see pictures of you again. You look amazing.
.-= Sarah´s last blog ..Passwords, Passwords =-.
Alexandra says:
I’m glad you went, even it just served the purpose of being a temporary distraction from the pain of Maddie being gone.
Lisa says:
I’m glad you had a good time (besides the migraine of course). You look beautiful in the pictures.
.-= Lisa´s last blog ..St. Louis City Park =-.
Kristabella says:
It was great to see you this weekend and be able to just give you a hug, which I’ve wanted to do since April.
Love you!
.-= Kristabella´s last blog ..DINAO Round 12 – The Judges Edition =-.
Courtney says:
I’m sorry you weren’t feeling up to more of BlogHer, it looks like you still had a great time with lasting memories! God Bless.
Courtney in New York
.-= Courtney´s last blog ..Twilight? Really! =-.
Apple Sauce says:
Dang girl, even with a migraine and extreme nausea, you still look smokin’ hot.
.-= Apple Sauce´s last blog ..Praying for Stellan =-.
mandie segura says:
I absolutely LOVE the photo of you with Tim Gunn! HOTT! Hope you’re feeling better soon!
Jenn says:
WOW Heather, you are beautiful!!!! Thank you for sharing your weekend with us. I am one day closer to starting my own blog (thanks to your inspiring BLOG!!), I’m sorry your headache kept you at bay but, I do hope you at least had some fun.
I also listened to your interview and I must say, you sounded awesome! So educated, so strong, so passionate. I’m so very proud of you!
One day, I do hope to meet you.Until then, I will keep visiting you on line, thinking about you all every day and of course, praying for you, Mike, Maddie & Binky.
Take Care My Friend,
All the Best,
Jenn
moosh in indy. says:
Pardon the irreverence, but I still can’t get over your boobs.
.-= moosh in indy.´s last blog ..camarohmygosh. =-.
Amanda says:
*hugs* to you both. You are one very strong person and an inspiration to many.
I have no idea if this is available out there but Badger Balm ( http://www.badgerbalm.com/default.aspx ) has an awesome Headache Soother that works pretty good on migranes.
.-= Amanda´s last blog ..Photo Friday – Bizarre Happenings =-.
tara says:
i wish i would have been there to meet you and give you a *real* hug. until that day comes, i will continue to send virtual hugs your way, every single day! you look gorgeous! xo
Colleen says:
Sometimes my life doesn’t feel like my life either, it’s ok. Life is fluid and it is never the same from one day to another, but it is what it is. Sometimes the key is just getting through a day. When my son was five he was diagnosed with Autism (15 years ago). I can’t even begin to tell you how far I looked own the road at all of the things he, my husband and myself would be missing out on. Some came true, some not. People would call me for advice when they heard of a friend or even themselves that had a child with Autism. My best advice was always to tell them to not look too far down the road, just till the next fork in it. I am always sure I can get that far and then we’ll see where I go from there. When I think long term, I get nauseous and can’t sleep. So, I just know that I can get through today and we’ll just have to wait and see what tomorrow brings. Today is good, enjoy whatever life you have, just stay away from those hotdogs on Mike’s blog. That looked like something that should have had a black box over it……
K says:
Just a little FYI, but every neurologist I have gone to blacklists Tylenol as a treatment for migraines. Tylenol tends to give a temporary relief of pain, but you get a rebound headache that is typically worse than the original one. Try Aleve instead.
J says:
Glad you’re home safely, and that you (mostly) had a good trip.
It’s not fair that you had a migraine. Pregnant women should get a buy on migraines for the duration, I think.
.-= J´s last blog ..Mmm, spicy =-.
Judy says:
I watched the video and sit here amazed at your strengh.
amy d says:
Amazing job Heather. I know that could not have been easy for you, yet you stood up there, in front of 1400 people, and were poised and sincere. I follow you on twitter and had butterflies for you speaking in front of that many. I also thought you humming “Damn it feels good to be a gangsta” was HIGH-larious!
Praying for you daily mama.
.-= amy d´s last blog ..An Actual Conversation Between Babes… =-.
Alexandra says:
So sorry that you were sick this weekend, Heather. I can only imagine how hard it must be to accept Maddie’s loss enough to almost convince yourself that your parents had her. We all loved your speech
Hugs,
Alexandra
Theresa says:
Instead of I’m sorry today, I’m going to say… Thank you! Thank you for sharing!
.-= Theresa´s last blog ..Customer Service!!!! =-.
angeline says:
Heather you are so brave! You read that post beautifully! Knowing how hard it was, you managed! God bless you!
You look amazing in your purple dress with Timmy! Can’t wait for project runway to premiere!
Pamela says:
Glad you had an awesome time! You look amazing in that purple dress!
Lex ~ @laprimera says:
Sending you a big hug.
Jennie says:
Just listened to your radio interview – You were brilliant as always. Hope you find relief from your migraine very, very soon.
cindy w says:
Oh man. I was tweeting about getting home to my kid, and now I feel like a total asshole. If I contributed in any tiny way to your tears, I am so, so sorry. I just didn’t think about it. (In my defense, I was working on a violent headache & nausea too, but for totally non-pregnancy related reasons, ie, too much booze.)
I hope your headache gets better fast. I tweeted you about this earlier, and I know that your pregnancy is different since you’re considered high-risk, but my doctor let me take Darvocet (very, very mild narcotic painkiller) for migraines when I was pregnant. Might be worth asking about if the headaches turn out to be recurring.
Love you, lady. So glad I got to spend a few minutes with you this weekend. xoxo
.-= cindy w´s last blog ..my little BlogHer recap =-.
Noelle says:
You are…amazing. For all that you’ve been through, for all that you share, for having the courage to stand up in a room of thousands and bare your soul. We love you!
As for going to a bowling alley with a migraine…as a fellow sufferer, I don’t know how you did it!
.-= Noelle´s last blog ..Conversations with E: Facebook =-.
Ann says:
You gave a beautiful and moving speech, congratulations on getting up and working through your pain to help so many people. I’m sure your friends and family are so proud of you! Maddie’s mother does her proud too. I’m sorry that coming home is so difficult for you, we are all thinking of you.
And your baby bump looks so cute!
On a side note — I’m prone to migraines when I change climates, or when rain is on its way, and I got a lot of headaches when I was first pregnant. If I take Tylenol as soon as I feel the migraine coming on, I’m ok, if not, it takes more Tylenol, lots of water, and some cold compresses. I’m sorry you had such a severe headache, and hope its better now.
Heather says:
I usually get migraines, but got them worse when I was pregnant both times. Two separate OB’s let me take low doses of Percocet (Tylenol & Oxycontin). Doesn’t take the pain completely away, but makes you really relaxed and not care so much… and, surprisingly, gets rid of the nausea-headache part too. 1/2 of 3.5mg works for me. I know you’re on high risk watch so they may not let you, but it’s always nice to feel like a functional human at times.
Cortney says:
I saw an Abby Cadabby doll at Barnes and Noble last night. I thought of Maddie and smiled. I am a stranger, but someone who sends you happy thoughts and wishes for peace.
Stimey says:
I lurk here. And I lurked when I saw you at BlogHer. But I’m glad you and your husband went and got to be embraced by your community in person. You’re very strong. Love to your family.
.-= Stimey´s last blog ..My Very Quick BlogHer Recap =-.
Attilla the Mum says:
Sounds like a stress headache. Honey, with all you’ve been through, then going to the biggest blowout there is in the blogging world, it’s no wonder you got a migraine. I hope you are doing better.
Tracy says:
aaawwwww you poor girl! I wish you had felt better and didn’t fall! I am glad though that you were able to feel some of the love and support from the Internet Friends that care about you and your family!
Karen says:
Sorry to hear about the headache. But at least that didn’t stop you from putting a bag on your head. I mean, how much more fun can you have than that!
You are so brave to get up there and read your post. I so wish that wasn’t the post you had to read but it’s good to know that your guardian angel is there, holding your hand every step of the way.
.-= Karen´s last blog ..Moms and Dads =-.
Jen L. says:
Oh, honey, I hope you get some relief from your headache soon.
Could you BE any cuter in your picture with Timmy? How cool that you got to meet him!
Sending up prayers for you as always. Can’t wait to hug your neck (as we say in the south) at Type-A Mom Con!
.-= Jen L.´s last blog ..Comfort Food Saturday: Vanilla Almond French Toast =-.
Amanda says:
I never introduced myself, but I was not at all surprised to find you to be as luminous as I imagined. Wishing you a migraineless rest of the summer and magic in the months ahead.
Kori says:
You are amazing.
.-= Kori´s last blog ..$100.00 was contributed ($515.00 so far) =-.
Sarcastica says:
Great pictures! Glad there was a video of you speaking, it sucks that I missed BlogHer but thanks to that video I got to hear at least one of my favourite bloggers speak!
Hope your migraine goes away soon Heather. Thinking of you!
.-= Sarcastica´s last blog ..Pictures Speak Louder Than Words =-.
Hollie says:
Oh Heather you look so cute with your belly bump just starting to show.
You are so brave and so inspiring to so many people. I think you are one amzing woman and love you even though I don’t know you personally.
Hugs from Oregon
.-= Hollie´s last blog ..Future Blogger =-.
Girlplease says:
I”m sorry I didn’t get to attend BlogHer but I did go to the CheeseburgHER party (I know Yvonne). I would have love to met you. And crying was ok. I’m happy to see you are doing well with the little one.
Jenn says:
It was so good to see recent pics of you with your baby bump! You look great! Cannot wait to find out the sex of Binky!
Okay, I freakin LOVE Tim Gunn!! Love, love Project Runaway and cannot wait for it to start up again. Question for you…did you actually call him Timmy?? How did he react.
I will echo the others in saying that your fall makes me a bit nervous! Please rest and take care of yourself.
Your keynote speech was absolutely wonderful! Brought tears to my eyes. Thank you Amazing Greis for taking the video!
I am so inspired and in awe by your tenacity. You are an amazing woman and I truly don’t think I would have the strength that you have shown. God bless you.
I’m so sorry that your homecoming wasn’t what it should have been.
Much love, Jenn in CA
Marie says:
Your reading at BlogHer one of the most memorable and poignant moments and really showed the true impact and power of bloggers and friends.
Andrea's Sweet Life says:
You handled things amazingly well, I think. I never did rub your belly. That gives me an excuse to see you again soon! Love you.
Dana Zap says:
Heather, you look so pretty in all the pics! I’m about 2 weeks pregnant ahead of you and I wish I looked as good as you. I have to say I had to prepare myself before watching your speech as I knew I would cry. I had to chew on a straw at work so I wouldn’t as I already cried once today reading Mike’s blog… You’re truly an inspiration and Maddie is proudly telling all the Angels that “That’s my Mom”
((Hugs))
dana
.-= Dana Zap´s last blog ..Sun, Jul 19, 2009 =-.
Marti from Michigan says:
I’m sorry you had a headache Heather. I have migraines and someone told me to take vitamin B Complex, and sure enough, my headaches are better since I’ve been taking it. I still get them, but less frequently and they are not so painful.
Be extra careful with falls, OK? You’re taking a blood thinner and even a slight bump could turn into a bruise. I take one baby aspirin daily (81 mg) for heart protection, and I notice I bruise much easier now due to that.
I’m glad you had some fun anyway, and your pictures are beautiful. I love the picture of you in front of the Tide design, I can see your beautiful baby bump.
Wishing you purple butterflies……
Kim says:
Heather, thank you so much for posting a picture of yourself. I have been following your blog for a few months now, and more so now with Binky on the way, i wanted to see a recent picutre of you, you look radiantly beautiful. Stay stong and may God be with you and your entire family. You are an inspiration to so many.
m says:
i’m so sorry for you. i can’t imagine going through your loss. i continue to be so, so sorry.
Jaelithe says:
At the keynote, you read your post with such determination. I could hear your love for your daughter supporting your voice. That steeling, mother tiger kind of love. The minute you walked on stage, I knew you would finish the reading. I knew you would not break down. It was a beautiful tribute to her, and to the community, when you wrote it and even more so when you read it out loud, and I was awed by your composure and your generosity in agreeing to read it in the first place. It was a strong and a beautiful thing you did.
I was one of those women tweeting that I missed my child, and I’m sorry it hurt you to see it. What I didn’t write is that, since Maddie died, every time I find myself missing my son, a living son I can come home to, I think of you missing your child for the rest of your life, and wish I could fix the injustice.
.-= Jaelithe´s last blog ..Girl Trouble, Part Two =-.
Sally says:
Wish I could have been there to meet you myself. Maybe one day.
xo
.-= Sally´s last blog ..All babies are miracles, even the ones who aren’t =-.
MommyNamedApril says:
I’m so sorry you had a headache the whole time! Wish I could’ve been there to meet you… but maybe it’s better, because I totally would’ve cried. What can I say, I’m a hormonal sap. I totally would’ve given you a hug too, though. ((hugs))
.-= MommyNamedApril´s last blog ..Manic Monday… Where Does the Time Go? =-.
Zak says:
Lady, you made BlogHer for me. I can’t believe how strong and beautiful you are. Hugs.
Lesley says:
I wasn’t there & sorry you got confined to your room with the migraine. Okay, I’ll be totally shallow now. You look smokin hot in your pic with Tim Gunn! (I’m usually reading blog posts in my google reader & don’t always see pictures of everyone who blogs.) Girl, you have the most beautiful skin!
Also, I’m hoping that the headaches stay away & that the needles are getting better.
.-= Lesley´s last blog ..Monday Random Thoughts =-.
Andrea says:
Heather,
I have been a silent reader of your blog for a few months now. I have been reading your words day after day but after seeing the video of your speech I felt compelled to let you know that I admire you as a fellow woman. You have such strength and courage. I wanted to thank you for sharing your sweet Maddie with the world.
P.S I can’t wait to hear more about Binky!
denise says:
I’m so glad I got to see your speech – many thanks to the person who recorded that.
Still thinking about you guys everyday – wishing, hoping for you to have good dreams.
Hugs to you chicky!
Dee Dee says:
I was looking forward to hearing how your weekend went! Thanks for keeping us updated. A headache may have been tough but it may have also forced some much needed rest on you during a busy weekend. take care…
Elizabeth says:
I’m sorry you had such a bad headache but glad to hear you had a good time. And..Tim Gunn…wow and I jealous. I love him You speech was amazing. Take care of youself after such a busy weekend.
Melissa says:
Heather, you spoke beautifully and you looked beautiful. Your words are so very true.
Hugs Mama!
.-= Melissa´s last blog ..A Few Pics From the Zoo =-.
Sarah says:
You look amazing Heather!
AND, you’re sooo lucky to have met “Timmy”. I’m jealous! He’s my favorite too.
.-= Sarah´s last blog ..12 or 13, who’s counting? =-.
PB and Jazz says:
Heather,
You did such a beautiful job on your speech! I was online, on Twitter, begging for a twitpix, which I got BTW! I was praying for you as you spoke and now I am celebrating with you as I watch. You did awesome! Sorry to hear you are not feeling well. I hope that changes soon. You are a special lady.
.-= PB and Jazz´s last blog ..BlogHer @ Home =-.
Sheenah says:
Your speech was wonderful. I remember reading that post and marveling at your strength. Even though it may not feel like you are strong, just surviving proves that you are. After I had gone through a difficult time with my own health problems (but nothing like what you and Mike have been through) people told me the same thing and I didn’t believe them. Years later, I finally understand.
I wish that I had been able to go to BlogHer this year and see your speech in person, but I hope that I will next time around. Congrats on Binky!
.-= Sheenah´s last blog ..Starting Again =-.
Overflowing Brain (Katie) says:
Your community keynote was serious kickassery, just so you know. I’m not sure I mentioned that yet.
And also? It was so awesome to meet you, spend time with you and have a full blown panic attack when you fell down. Okay, so that was not awesome. But the rest was.
And I’m hoping we can do supersecretpizzaparty New York style next year.
Kristen says:
Heather: Your really an inspiration. I am sure this isn’t they way you would want to be inspiring people but you are. That video gave me goosebumps. My hearts go out to you, Mike, Maddie and Binky ( I hope I got that nickname right).
Kristen
Rumour Miller says:
I watched the video and you spoke very well! You look wonderful. I’m sorry about the trip home. I wish this wasn’t your reality.
.-= Rumour Miller´s last blog ..I would wait forever for the chance to be with you… =-.
Jamie says:
Thanks for posting the video and audio clips! Even though you cannot hear me, I was applauding! ha ha I hope your headache/migraine is gone.
Glenda says:
I hope you are feeling better with the headache/migraine/nauseau. Thanks for sharing the pictures of yourself and the video. You look great and I can see Binky is popping out a lil ;o) You’re such an inspiration. Sending you hugs! XX
Beth says:
Your beautiful baby, your beautiful words….I can’t stop thinking about you and your family. I know everyone says this, but I feel like I know you. I wish you happy, happy days ahead. You so deserve them.
Alison says:
Aaaand I’m crying.
xoxoxoxo. A hug and a kiss each for you, Mike, Maddie, and Binky.
.-= Alison´s last blog ..Gred and Forge =-.
Missy says:
Congratulations on your pregnancy! My family in AZ is praying for you guys daily.
Anonymous says:
Gahh. i just listened to the blog talk radio thing and your comment about the new baby knowing Maddie via what you’ve recorded on the blog and how you encouraged everyone to write their own stories is so lovely. I wasn’t familiar with your blog before Maddie’s passing so i just went and clicked on a couple random links and wow, what a record it is. This made me giggle and of course note her beauty as always.
http://thespohrsaremultiplying.com/2008/12/midnight-kisses/
annnnd, I just love how much you celebrated her life everyday – it shows in your posts. and how
Yours is exactly the kind of charity I am inspired to contribute to and absolutely will contribute to.
Monique says:
I usually lurk but I had to come out today. I just wanted to say you and Mike inspire me. Your strength through all this just amazes me. I know there are times when you want to curl up and just die and forget the rest of the world. But here you both are sharing your story so that Maddie’s spirit lives on and she’s not forgotten…Its just so moving. I wish so much that she was still here with you. She is a beautiful girl and I’m so glad that you got to have the time that you did have with her because just in that time she was able to bring a community closer together and touch the hearts of thousands. I have been unemployed and depressed about not finding work and it feels like the end of the world but I think if you can get up each day so can I. I wish you and your family the best and my prayers are with you.
Marisa says:
I have never commented before, but I’ve been following you guys since April when mommy melee posted about you on Facebook. Please keep writing. You, Mike, Maddie, Binky, and Rigby have inspired more people than you know.
.-= Marisa´s last blog ..Bunny Blue Eyes =-.
Cecilia says:
I just wanted to congratulate you on having the most inspiring blog. I truly think you are an amazing person.
mom, again says:
for the headache: lie down with an icepack on your neck/back of your head. once when I was groaning with a headache my little girl brought me the ice pack because she knew I used it for so many of her bumps. I didn’t expect it to work, but it was less effort to take it than explain to her why I didn’t want it.
But, it did work. it can be enough to get me briefly functional, if I have to be. If I can sleep on it, it fixes it pretty good.
gorillabuns says:
beautifully said.
.-= gorillabuns´s last blog .."I love him so much!" "I know you do, honey." "I love him so much!" "I know you do." =-.
Marnie says:
You are amazing!
P.S. you look beautiful in the pic with Tim Gunn and you really know how to work a “Mc hat”
Amy says:
Your presentation was wonderful. You have such strength and, I must say, BEAUTY. I am sure you moved and inspired many..
Sarah says:
Can i just say u look amazing!!!
Diane says:
You look wonderful, Heather. Sorry that your trip was interrupted by a migraine. Take care.
Amys blah, blah, blogging says:
What a lovely way to keep Maddie’s memory alive. I’m sure it was very hard for you, as the following morning sounds too. Hopefully you can get some rest this week and over the nausea!
.-= Amys blah, blah, blogging´s last blog ..10 Smile Tuesday =-.
LiteralDan says:
What a run of luck! And I thought I had it bad with the flu. Your migraine and fall trump my complaints.
I’m sorry the dream made the transition back to daily life so rough for you, but I hope overall the trip helped you both in your healing process.
.-= LiteralDan´s last blog ..Classic quotes, Vol. 18 =-.
Kellee says:
You were beautiful and eloquent and heart felt. I wish I had been there to see it. (And BTW I LOOOVE Tim Gunn).
.-= Kellee´s last blog ..Itsy Bitsy Spider: Part 2 =-.
Al_Pal says:
*hugs*
I, too, laughed at the bit about Mike’s exclamation, “your placenta!”.
Glad you got to meet so many wonderful bloggers, sorry the headache kept you away from a lot of the activity.
Congrats on giving your speech.
Krysti says:
I’m glad you enjoyed the conference despite a migraine and busting your ass. Migraines during pregnancy are the absolute worst. I loathe Tylenol and yearned for the days when I could take my migraine medicine again.
Kim says:
Almost six years later and it still doesn’t feel like my life. I understand.
I really enjoyed your post that you read. I even blogged about it on my site. Touched a few nerves
I am so glad I was able to meet you at Blogher. I hope that my baby didn’t cause you any additional heartache. I remember how I would want to touch the babies, but it just hurt so much.
You and yours continue to be in my thoughts and prayers.
.-= Kim´s last blog ..Home Again =-.
Maria Delgado says:
Thank you for your bravery. I wish I could have gone to BlogHer. I mostly wanted to meet you. My prayers are with you daily.
God Bless.
Maria E. Delgado
step by step directions says:
“Friday was the big day for me, when I stood up in front of 1,400 people to read an entry from my blog. ”
Way to go Heather! That was really a great day for you and I believe there will be much more to come.