On the last Saturday of April, we gathered to honor Maddie and all the other babies who were born too soon.

Team March for Maddie 2012

It was a gorgeous day, perfect for walking 3.78 miles.

marching

It was a good day to get pushed, too.

passed out

At the end of the walk, we all caught up while we caught our breath.

Jenna, Catherine, Jackie, Brianne

It is always amazing to be surrounded by friends and family who love us. It was especially awesome to have Jackie! come march with us. She’s going through so much but she still made the incredible effort to be with us on such a hard day. It meant more to me than I can express.

Annie greeted her friends at the finish line and congratulated them on a job well-done.

hugs

high five!

She then lead them in a crazy toddler dance party.

dancing

Ollie Jumps!

Annie and her friends have grown so much. It’s bittersweet.

toddler dance party

After we returned home, Annie refused to remove her Maddie shirt. “I did it, Mama!” She said, pointing to the sticker on her shirt that said the same thing. “Again march for Baby Maddie?”

Next year, sweetie.