It was our last perfect day together, a wonderful Saturday in April.
We went to a birthday party, where music was made,
smiles were shared,
and cuddles were plenty.
there were bubbles
and deep thoughts.
We later went to a park, where we basked in the sun,
and yelled at ducks, “bay bee duh!”
On Sunday, she had a bit of a cough, so we canceled our plans. On Monday, she went to the doctor, and then the hospital. On Tuesday, three days after our perfect day, our Madeline was gone.
Kristine says:
Every time I look at Maddie, I’m so captivated by her beauty. Thank you for sharing her with us. Thank you for sharing your beautiful, sunny day. So much love.
.-= Kristine´s last blog ..We heard it from the Easter Bunny. Finding out we were pregnant. =-.
Alexandra :) says:
Me too. I just can’t get over those big beautiful eyes of hers.
Mary says:
And those lashes!!!!!
.-= Mary´s last blog ..Easter Brings Eggs! =-.
Marti from Michigan says:
Exactly my thoughts Kristine. Exactly.
Maddie’s eyes are so beautiful, she IS a beautiful child. She IS near to you now.
Natasha says:
She lights up these pictures. Nearly a year later, my heart aches for you. The memory of that face will never fade.
Laney says:
This. I feel exactly the same way.
Noelle says:
Natasha said it perfectly. I will never forget your beautiful Maddie.
.-= Noelle´s last blog ..leave my wings behind me =-.
Becca_Masters says:
RIP beautiful Madeline.
Hugs to Heather & Mike
Theresa says:
She is so beautiful.
Natalie @ Hope Springs Eternal says:
So beautiful.
.-= Natalie @ Hope Springs Eternal´s last blog ..Parenting Fail, Or Honest Mistake? =-.
kelly says:
I can’t even begin to imagine the heartbreak that you have lived with every day for almost a year.
You will ALWAYS have that beautiful memory of your perfect day. May you make many, many, MANY more memories with your amazing little Annie.
Love and hugs to you all
.-= kelly´s last blog ..Little drummer girl =-.
Karyn says:
Her beautiful smile will never be forgotten. Lots of love to you, Mike and Annie this week!
mary says:
She was so lucky to have a mom who ran after her with the camera and captured these beautiful moments. It breaks my heart to think of all the pictures she will never be in. Praying for you extra hard this week. Take care of yourself.
steph says:
~Far too well loved to ever be forgotten~
Rest In Peace sweet girl.
Thinking of you this week, and all of them.
Laura says:
Yes, this.
Katrina says:
Oh no
This is such a heartbreaking post.
Reliving the last few days, thinking back to how perfect they were….only to lead up to the most devastating and awful day. A day you didn’t see coming. No one could. Heather, I’m so, so sorry for your pain. These next few days are going to be so hard for you and Mike. I hope you two are surrounded by close friends and family during this very hard week ahead. Please know that there are so many us of “cyber” friends out here who are thinking of you.
.-= Katrina´s last blog ..Happy Birthday, Baby =-.
Conniw says:
I couldn’t have said it better! Sending all my hugs, love, and positive thoughts your way my dear!
.-= Conniw´s last blog ..Zip Over to Zibbet =-.
Mary says:
So very true!
.-= Mary´s last blog ..Easter Brings Eggs! =-.
jayneoni says:
praying for you and mike
Willow says:
Such beautiful pictures and memories, such a heartbreaking loss. My thoughts are with you all.
Shelly says:
Anniversaries are hard. I know, I’ve lost immediate family members and the anniversaries are the worst. But the day comes, and you cry, and then it ends and you find a way to keep going. I am sure that somewhere you will find the strength, even when you think you and Mike won’t be able to.
Hugs and thoughts.
Cynthia says:
Thank you for sharing your beautiful family with us! Madeline’s beautiful soul never fails to shine through your posts filled with the wonderful memories you behold. Both Annie and Maddie are such a lucky little girls to have a Mommy & Daddy that love them to pieces the way you do. I have said this before, so I don’t mean it lightly, but I’m so sorry that there is nothing I can say or do that will comfort you and I can only imagine that the loss of Maddie is so very heavy on your heart and soul. Your grace and courage has been amazing and her legacy will live on forever in our hearts for having the opportunity to witness her way too short, but amazing life via your blog and through all of the families helped via Friends of Maddie and the March of Dimes. Us fellow bloggers are always with you & your family & will hold you near & dear in our hearts & minds, especially during this what must be an incredibly difficult week. Love & hugs to you, Mike, Annie, Rigby & family!
Laura says:
Your little angel has changed more lives than you will ever know. She will never, ever, ever be forgotten.
For the rest of our days, whenever we see purple, we will remember your stunning little girl with the smile that lit up a room.
It is so unfair that Maddie isn’t here, and I so wish I could take your pain away and put her back in your arms where she belongs.
Love to you always.
Tam says:
I don’t know what to say. Thankyou for sharing your precious daughter with us – a gift of beauty and light, to be treasured always.
Fly high sweet Maddie – not a single day goes by without this family, on the other side of the world thinking about you.
Much Love x
.-= Tam´s last blog ..At what point, =-.
Kate @ UpsideBackwards says:
Much love to you all in this difficult week. Sending lots of hugs, too.
.-= Kate @ UpsideBackwards´s last blog ..Egg hunting =-.
Fiona says:
Simply heartbreaking. Your little girl was perfection. I think she looks so beautiful in these photos. Really like you, Heather. What a sunny day.
The yellow dress makes her look like a little sun beam. It must be so devastating for you to look at these beautiful photos, yet it must also be so wonderful too.
What a conflict of grief and happiness you have in your life. It’s heart wrenching for us all to read. God only knows what you must be going through. To have had her at all – such bliss, and then to have her taken from you – I am sure the darkest of days. And now with your precious little Annie, something to wake up for, something to carry on for a new reason for being, a new reason to be happy again but always with this devastating knowledge of something which can never make sense. It must be so hard for you and Mike.
I find it so hard to express how much I feel for you…but I do. I think we all do. Every one of us who reads your posts.
I think of you often. All of 5 of you.
Fiona xxx
suzanne says:
Beautifully said. These are my thoughts too. I think often of the conflicting feelings you and Mike must grapple with every day: the greatest joy of welcoming Annie into the world, and the deepest grief of yearning for your Madeline.
I am so sorry she slipped away from you. May the memory of your perfect day, and your perfect Madeline, ease the shock and anguish that I know you carry in your hearts. Annie will bring you more perfect days, and I hope your profound love for her — so evident in your blogs — eases your burden.
Know that we will remember Madeline. You have shared her story in the most beautiful, tender way, and we will remember.
Thinking of you guys, and of Madeline, so, so much this week.
Alison says:
Thank you for sharing this with us. I just love looking at photos of her. It’s so hard to believe that she was gone only a few days after these happy photos were taken..
.-= Alison´s last blog ..31 Weeks! =-.
Sharon says:
No longer being able to say “This time last year” is hard. You have so many beautiful photos and wonderful memories. She is missed by many and many will be thinking of you.
Lindsay says:
Saying a prayer for your family to be strong during this rough week.
Maddie is so beautiful!
.-= Lindsay´s last blog ..A Rough Night But Improvement! =-.
Robyn says:
I’m sitting here cuddling and watching a muppets film with my daughter as an easter treat. A little girl who looks a lot like your amazing Maddie. She was younger but is now older than your lovely girl. We live thousands of miles away from you and will almost certainly never meet, but I (like so many others around the world) think about Maddie and your family every day. She will always be remembered. I am a better mother to my daughter knowing how precious every moment with her is and how lucky I am to have her beside me.
Much love and thoughts to you all on these, and all other days. Robyn, London
amanda says:
love to you guys, and to Maddie.
xo from CT
Amanda
.-= amanda´s last blog ..thank you Easter Bunny, bawk bawk! =-.
coloradolady says:
It seems so unreal to look at these pictures and know what was to come. My heart aches for you. Heather, I was in my garden yesterday and my purple rose bush is full of buds and I just know one of them is trying to open up and bloom on Maddie’s angel day. I know it and feel it. When it does bloom, I am going to email you the picture. Hugs to you, I feel sad thinking about Maddie being gone almost one year. My. It is hard to believe.
.-= coloradolady´s last blog ..A Kite and A Memory =-.
Sue says:
Gorgeous, gorgeous, Maddie; even tho thousands never did get to meet you, baby girl, we all love you so very, very, much. Your memory will live on, forever, in the hearts of us all……………………..
Lots of love, and huge hugs to all of you, Heather, Mike, Maddie, Annie, & Rigby
Fairly Odd Mother says:
Much love to you all from the other coast.
.-= Fairly Odd Mother´s last blog ..A river runs through it =-.
charlane says:
Saying many prayers for you and your family this week.
.-= charlane´s last blog ..Caketastrophy =-.
Kim says:
I am so sorry. Sending you hugs and strength to help you get through the next few days. I know it will be rough.
Amélie says:
wishing you lots of courage for the days to come!
*hugs*
Amy says:
I know it is small consolation, but I am honored to be one of the people reading and keeping her memory alive. Sending my love to all four of you.
Lynn from For Love or Funny says:
It’s just inconceivable that one day she was here, and the next…she wasn’t.
Thinking of you and Mike and Annie…
.-= Lynn from For Love or Funny´s last blog ..How to take good pictures of your kids =-.
Jill says:
Like so many others, I’ll be thinking of you and Mike a lot this week.
.-= Jill´s last blog ..Focus on what you have 4/3/10 =-.
Ohmygoshi says:
she is so missed by everyone who reads this blog, and so many more. what you’ve done in her honor has been incredible, but it pales in comparison to how much i wish things were different for you and your precious family! love, thoughts, and prayers to all of you this week!
.-= Ohmygoshi´s last blog ..Funny Business =-.
Ruth says:
Life changes in the blink of an eye. What lovely pictures you have of your perfect day with Maddie … not only of her (one of the most photogenic children I’ve ever seen — those eyes!), but in particular the ones of you together. So much love.
So much heartbreak. I am thinking of you, Mike and Maddie this week.
.-= Ruth´s last blog ..What light in yonder window breaks? =-.
Sarah P says:
Perfect day, perfect girl.
I love those relaxed, happy faces on her parents.
XXOO to you and Mike.
Angie says:
I am so glad that you had such a perfect day to keep her memory in the sunshine
.-= Angie´s last blog ..Pumpkin Pancakes(as promised) =-.
Anna Marie says:
I love those pictures. Sweet, sweet girl.
eliza says:
These pictures are so incredible. She glows. Milestones are accomplishments, not just salt in the wound. That day won’t make you any farther from her. You’ll be ok. She can’t be taken from you again. We’re all here this week. Right here with you.
Hope says:
You guys are in my thoughts and prayers. Thank you for sharing her with us. She was and will always will be beautiful.
Pgoodness says:
Love those pictures. Hugging you all from
afar this week and always.
.-= Pgoodness´s last blog ..Wordless Wednesday =-.
Nellie says:
My heart aches for you – for your precious and beloved loss and your words, your heartfelt, loving words inspire me.
I used to look at purple as just a color I liked wearing or thought made my eyes pop. On April 6, 2009 that all changed. My friend had blogged about saying a prayer/sending good wishes to you and Madeline and that’s when I met your precious little one – through your beautiful blog. I never again saw purple as just a color. Purple is now Madeline’s color and every time I wear a shade of purple or put my daughter Ainsley in anything purple, I think of Madeline and I send up a kiss and smile that she always surround you Mike and now Annabel with love, warmth, peace, laughter and joy!
Amy says:
Oh hon. I am in tears for you. When you posted this to twitter, I thought “yes! gods I miss my baby girl”.
From one mother who has suffered your loss to another, many hugs and much sympathy. I share your pain, I just wish that sharing it could make it less.
~Amy
Jenn says:
Looking at those pictures…..tears soak my cheeks…such a perfect day…..only to be shattered into s million pieces!!! So unfair life is but I will promise you this…..just like the “Forget Me Knots” p;anted in my garden….Maddie WILL NEVER EVER Be forgottened!
Good night sweet Angel. Sleep in peace and know we love and miss you…..every single day!!!!!!!!! You little Moo; will never , EVER BE FORGOTTEN!!!!
Love,
Jenn 8 Sydney xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxooxoxoxoxox
Tami says:
My heart still aches for you both. Maddie had beautiful eyes and that smile was huge. Thinking of you as you get threw this tuff week. You all are in my thoughts and prayers. Hugs,
Liz says:
Beautiful pictures. Beautiful little girl.
.-= Liz´s last blog ..And the Heartbreak Continues =-.
Catherine Lucas says:
We will never understand why this had to happen… Why perfect days had to slide onto unimaginable days. Thinking about you all, hoping that the coming days will be better then anticipated…
.-= Catherine Lucas´s last blog ..A calf named the Joker… =-.
Heather says:
Heather, there’s really no words except I’m sorry.
I began reading your blog shortly after Maddie passed and if feels like it’s been much longer than a year. Then I thought, “If it feels that long to me, it’s been a million lifetimes for Heather & Mike.” Yet at the same time, it may feel like only yesterday that you went to this party together. Sorry, I shouldn’t make presumptions about what your are feeling.
You are in my thoughts & prayers as always.
.-= Heather´s last blog ..Easter: Let’s bring it down a notch. =-.
kim says:
No words…. Please know that I am thinking of you all in this difficult time. Sending you prayers, and positive vibes to get you through this week. So sorry Heather~
Java says:
I didn’t know how beautiful her last Sunday on earth was….thanks for sharing. Such a beautiful little girl. Sorry Mike and Heather. ((Hugs))
.-= Java´s last blog ..The Basket Search =-.
Melissa says:
What a wonderful memory that day is for you.
You and your family will be in my prayers this week.
christieo says:
I know we don’t know each other, but I’ve read your blog over the past year and shared it with my husband and we’ve both had heavy hearts for the passing of dear baby Maddie. You’ll be in our prayers too as you have been over the past year.
.-= christieo´s last blog ..My Wish For You and Your Camera. Er, I mean, Family! =-.
Jessie says:
It is wonderful that you have the photos to remember such wonderful days. You remind me to not take a moment for granted with my loved ones. Thank you. My heart is with you both during this challenging time full of sad and wonderful memories.
cindy w says:
Thinking about you guys a lot this week. I can’t even imagine. xoxo
.-= cindy w´s last blog ..her favorite aunt =-.
Elizabeth says:
Sending you extra prayers and hugs during this difficult week. I wish I had some magic words to make things better but just know there are hundreds of people around the world remembering your Maddie. Hugs from KY.
Lindsay from Florida says:
It still doesn’t make an ounce more sense than it did a year ago. So damn unfair. I am holding your family closely in my thoughts and prayers this week. I have come to love your family and your daughters over this past year, but I desperately wish we’d “met” under different circumstances.
Mary P says:
Its hard to believe or understand how life can be turned upside down so quickly. Maddie is so breathtaking and amazing to see in her pictures and videos, and the world is a dimmer place without her bright light in it.
You are in my thoughts and prayers this week.
.-= Mary P´s last blog ..WTF Internet? =-.
Anjie says:
My heart breaks for you. Maddie was so beautiful! Thank you for sharing her with the world and keeping her alive in so many hearts throughout the world.
.-= Anjie´s last blog ..Happy Birthday Miranda! =-.
Lisa says:
All of you fill my heart and my thoughts this week. Maddie will be talked about often around these parts and I’ll being sending supportive, loving, peaceful vibes your way.
Love and hugs.
.-= Lisa´s last blog ..Our March for Maddie T-Shirts =-.
Momma Uncensored says:
i can’t even imagine….
.-= Momma Uncensored´s last blog ..sunshine day =-.
Andria says:
Such a beautiful girl.
.-= Andria´s last blog ..Happy Easter! =-.
Janeen says:
I go back to the post you wrote recently about what to say/not to say to a parent who has endured what you have. But how important it is just to say how sad I am, too and even if it is nothing original or THE magic words to help you (there aren’t any), just to express presence and sadness. I thought this weekend of you all and how last Easter I’d just learned of you. I hope you know that your thousands of readers carry you this week (and always, but especially this week) in their hearts and minds. To the extent possible, I hope we can carry you through it.
.-= Janeen´s last blog ..Snowmageddon, Snownami, Snowcopalypse =-.
kristen mcd says:
So much love to you all, as always. It still seems… impossible.
Katie says:
That does look a perfect sunny day. I’m so glad you have those pictures to help remember the great memories. Thinking of you this week. Miss your smile Maddie!!
J+1 says:
She looks like sunshine.
.-= J+1´s last blog ..Questions, answers and HOLY CRAP I have a lot to do =-.
Nikki says:
Love to you and Mike. Love to Annie. Love to Maddie. Love to Rigby.
Sending you LOTS of love, strength, courage, hope and whatever else you need to get you through the week.
Sending a special prayer to Maddie to visit you in your dreams tonight.
XOXO from GA,
Nikki
kristen says:
to maddie: we never met, but still you are my hero. graceful and inspiring to this very day. i hope you feel all the love directed your way.
to heather, mike, maddie, annie, and rigby…the spohr family: here’s hope for more perfect days to help ease your heartache just a bit. you are bound together in the hearts and minds of the thousands who love your family.
maddie is stunning…thank you for sharing these images once again.
hugs and love
xo
kristen
Kris says:
Thinking of your family always but even more so this week. Your beautiful, captivating girl will never ever be forgotten. ((Hugs))
Sarah says:
I am holding you and Mike so close to my heart as you approach this very dreadful anniversary. I wish there was a way that I could ease your pain but I know that you have to walk through it. Sending you immense amounts of love and light.
Shannon says:
No words are appropriate. But I’m sorry for your terrible loss, and you are in my thoughts and prayers this week. Hold tight to each other and your sweet Annabel. Thanks for sharing your beautiful Maddie with us. The pictures are priceless.
Deborah says:
I have been thinking about you a lot lately, knowing that the anniversary of her death is coming up. I’m praying for you and thinking about you and hoping that this week (and every other week and day and minute), you are able to find some peace.
Love you.
(((hugs)))
.-= Deborah´s last blog ..Bleeding Heart =-.
Kelli says:
Thank you for sharing your sweet Maddie with us…you and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers this week (and always)!
.-= Kelli´s last blog ..Weekly Winners, March 28th – April 3rd =-.
Diane says:
Thank you so much for sharing Maddie with all of us, Heather. I love looking at her pictures, such a beautiful girl. I wish I had better words but I am sending my best hugs.
.-= Diane´s last blog ..Practice for the Easter production at church. =-.
Amanda says:
I’ve been so worried about this week for you. I remember you said you were afraid people would forget – Maddie’s memory lives on. It’s just so so so hard. If there was anything, anything at all I could do to make it better I would.
But I wanted to let you know that, even though I don’t know you I wish that I could give you a big hug and that I’m thinking of you & Mike. I know you know this but be gentle with yourself this week and in the weeks to come.
I hope that knowing so many are thinking of you helps, in someway, lift you and Mike up.
.-= Amanda´s last blog ..Why Can’t She Just Stop? =-.
Terri says:
This is one of those few times (hopefully) in life that I will remember the exact moment where I was when I heard the news. Im a long time reader, not so long time commenter, but I’m still stunned by it, I still cannot and will not absorb that something so impossibly cruel happened. My mind will never be able to get wrapped around it and will never ever understand why your beautiful girl isn’t here in your arms. It just isn’t right. Im glad you have Annie in these days to make you smile and keep you going… Give Momma and Daddy extra hugs and smiles this week Annie,they will need it so badly (and throw up on them a few times, it will be a good distraction). Just don’t tell them I told you to!
Rebecca says:
Thank you for sharing your perfect day. She is such a beautiful girl. It breaks my heart to see such a beautiful, happy girl gone so soon.
.-= Rebecca´s last blog ..My Little Joey-Joe =-.
Jamie says:
I wish there was something or anything I could do to help the two of you as you draw close to the anniversary of losing Maddie. I know there isn’t but I wish there was. It must be so surreal for you to look back at what was just a short time ago. She must feel like a fairy tale or a beautiful dream.
.-= Jamie´s last blog ..Menu HO! =-.
Heather says:
She is so beautiful Heather, and even though I’ve been following your story for over a year now my heart never hurts less when I read these posts. Such a heart break. I’m so sorry.
Kristin says:
I’m so glad you had that last perfect day but my heart breaks when I think about what you went are still going through.
Rest in peace little angel. You will never be forgotten.
.-= Kristin´s last blog ..The Case of the Disappearing Hair =-.
Laura says:
She’s so beautiful! My heart breaks for you, for your loss, for her’s, for everything you are going through every day to keep breathing without her.
.-= Laura´s last blog ..Fix it Friday #49 =-.
earth_mommy says:
I don’t know if I could be as strong as you and Mike have been in the last year. My heart goes out to both of you. *huggles and snuggles*
.-= earth_mommy´s last blog ..Fiber Arts Showcase =-.
Lindsey says:
It didn’t seem possible then, and it hardly seems possible now. Sending you guys so much love. xoxo
.-= Lindsey´s last blog ..In which the Universe and I carry on with our abusive relationship =-.
Andrea says:
She’s so beautiful.
Wishing you strength…
.-= Andrea´s last blog ..80/365 =-.
Tracy says:
My heart breaks for your family….
jv says:
Thinking of you…
Overflowing Brain (Katie) says:
Nothing but endless love for you guys. I wish I had more to offer.
MBkimmy says:
Thinking of you – my heart aches for you and your family. Thank you for sharing her with us and thank you for continuing to share your life with us … I will be thinking about all of you!
.-= MBkimmy´s last blog ..St Pattys =-.
Rebecca (Ramblings by Reba) says:
I am thinking of you…
.-= Rebecca (Ramblings by Reba)´s last blog ..“Happy Birthday” greetings from my nephew Francis =-.
Megan says:
If love could have saved her
She would have lived forever
LD says:
She is so beautiful- and this post is heartbreakingly beautiful, too. We’re honored you share her with us–and I’ll be thinking of you and your family this week.
.-= LD´s last blog ..A Farewell to Arms…er, uh…stuff. =-.
MissyK says:
Just hugs & a million thoughts.
Kim says:
I love you. You are in my thoughts and prayers this week my sweet friend.
.-= Kim´s last blog ..January to April… =-.
Aunt Becky says:
I remember all of this like it was yesterday. I still don’t believe it. xoxo
.-= Aunt Becky´s last blog ..Blue, Baby, Blue =-.
Michelle says:
Tears streaming down my cheeks. She is such a breathtakingly gorgeous baby, and there is just something so magical about her.
I promise she will never be forgotten. My oldest daughter, Cassidy, has always been a “purple” girl. It’s not just her favorite color, it’s been a part of who she is since she was a baby. I’ve never seen purple and not thought of Cassidy, but now I see purple and think of Maddie, too.
Hang in there.
vickie says:
Thank you for sharing your little maddie moo. and thank you for reminding me that i should not take anything for granted.
Marnie :) says:
Big HUGS to you and your family everyday. My thoughts & prayers are always with you.
Kate says:
I think of you, Mike and Maddie (and Annie!) every single day.
Always sending you hugs and healing thoughts.
Jen H says:
She is absolutely breathtaking….oh, sweet, sweet baby girl….
deb says:
My thoughts are with you all.
Maddie – what a ray of sunshine…
.-= deb´s last blog ..My Big Girl – Happy Belated Birthday L =-.
Another Heather says:
Heather and Mike, please know that SO many people are holding you in their hearts right now. We can’t make it easier, but we can care about you.
Jess says:
Nothing I can say, no words I can gather, will make Wednesday better. I can tell you it gets easier. My gram was my best friend, my confidant, everything. She died March 27th. 4 days after my birthday. While I am happy to see my birthday come, I know that later it will bring great sadness. I can now pass by March 27th without too much heartache, without too many tears. But that day will forever be engrained in my mind. It’s how we cope.
Hold Annie close that day. Whisper stories of her sweet big sister Maddie to her. Look at pictures and remember. And know it’s okay to hurt, it’s okay to cry, it’s okay to grieve. And know that we will be grieving right along with you.
Camie says:
She is so luminous. It is so unfair that your girl isn’t with you anymore. Keeping you and Mike in my prayers and sending lots of love this week.
nic @mybottlesup says:
holding your family close to my heart as i remember reading your tweets from this exact time last year. i imagine your beautiful maddie smiling down, loving you, mike and annie from afar… but also quite close as she is and always be a part of you all.
.-= nic @mybottlesup´s last blog ..well this sucks =-.
Melissa says:
I can’t even imagine how your hearts must be aching, my heart aches for you all and I just read your blog, and your stories of that beautiful little girl.
What a happy little girl she was, and so beautiful. She has touched so many lives, leaving behind a beautiful legacy.
Much love to you all.
Untypically Jia says:
There really is no beauty like Maddie. Really and truly.
.-= Untypically Jia´s last blog ..We All Need Support Sometimes =-.
april says:
I so wish with every fiber of my being that you didn’t have to endure this week or this pain. That no parent ever had to lose a child. That this month and Easter had happy connotations instead of sad ones for so many grieving parents. We’re here with you, holding you up during this difficult time. We all love you and Maddie Moo and she’ll never ever be forgotten. Never. love and hugs from NJ.
Chrisie says:
((((HUGS)))))
Thinking of you guys and Maddie every day.
Alexandra says:
I can’t even believe that she isn’t here.
.-= Alexandra´s last blog ..Hasten, Children, The Hour is Nigh =-.
Gamanda says:
It’s so shocking to see those pictures and know her fate just two days later. It breaks my heart and I have been sick just thinking about the shitty milestones you are about to go through.
.-= Gamanda´s last blog ..I’m pretty sure my husband is gay and may be breaking up with me. =-.
Leslie says:
Praying for peace and comfort for you and Mike and all of you who loved her so, so much.
Krystle says:
How completely beautiful she is in those pictures, they truly are amazing.
.-= Krystle´s last blog ..3. =-.
Ania says:
I will never forget your beautiful, sweet little Maddie. My heart is so heavy for you. Big hugs…
mel says:
constantly on mind. even more so this week. xoxo
tara says:
it’s so unfair. i think of you all everyday, and am sending extra amounts of love and hugs this week. xo
Lisa from WV says:
She is breathtaking in these photos. I wish you could live this perfect day over and over again. I’m so sorry. Thinking of you and praying for you always, but especially this week.
K Faull says:
Again, I am so sorry.
San says:
I can’t believe it’s been a whole year. Thinking of you today.
Jen says:
What an extraordinary way to honor your daughter. Thank you for sharing your story with us and giving us a glimpse into Maddie’s legacy. It has been an honor to walk with you this year.
MommaLionessMichele says:
Beautifully written, Jen. I so agree. Heather, you have done an incredible job honoring your precious Maddie. It’s still unbelievable to look at these gorgeous photos and know what happened days later. Thinking of you and your family so much this week and sending strength to you and yours across the miles.
.-= MommaLionessMichele´s last blog ..March: The End, The Beginning =-.
Ashley says:
I’m sorry you had to ever have a LAST perfect day. But I am so thankful that you have those memories and the hundreds of beautiful photos you do. A year later I’m still at as big of a loss for words as I was the first time I visited your blog. I am so sorry for your loss and the injustice of the whole situation.
.-= Ashley´s last blog ..Hi ho, hi ho, it’s off to work he goes =-.
Emily says:
I have followed you for so long and I don’t think have commented much if not ever. It is really hard to look at these pictures and imagine that she was gone three days later! I know you must feel the same way. Both of your daughters are breathtakingly beautiful. I ffeel for you and am so sorry for your loss. I know it isn’t any easier almost a year later! My thoughts are to you during this difficult time.
Mary says:
I will be wearing purple all week for sweet Maddie. She will never be forgotten. Annabel will always know how wonderful and beautiful her sister was because you will show her. How blessed she is to have a sister like Maddie, and you and Mike to share Maddie with her.
Haley says:
Lots of love and prayers for you this week.
Maddie is just so beautiful.
.-= Haley´s last blog ..The Sweet Life =-.
Amber says:
Unbelievably painful. She was beautiful and beloved. I just hate the realities of life at times. It’s just so wrong that she’s gone. You are brave and beautiful to continue on in life like you are. Maddie would want that.
Danielle says:
This day breaks my heart. I am thinking about you all.
Ms. Moon says:
I think that part of your grief comes from the fact that Maddie’s life seemed so certain at that point. After everything she (and you) had been through to lose her at that point was just unimaginable.
And it is still unimaginable.
I know it does no good but I have to say it- I am so sorry.
.-= Ms. Moon´s last blog ..More Wisteria, Bees, Lizards, A Missing Chicken, And The Sacred Image Of The Female =-.
Karen says:
Maddie is so beautiful.
Lots of love to you this week.
.-= Karen´s last blog ..Easter Memories. =-.
jessica says:
I have been following you for probably about 8 or 9 months…I still cry for you…can’t imagine what you are going through…Please know that you are in my thoughts often and especially this week, as I know its a very tough week for you.
I’d like to think Madeline is smiling down on you
Barbara says:
You are all in my thoughts. The photos are beautiful and oh so poignant. I’m sorry you have had to suffer so.
Erin says:
Such beautiful pictures and memories! Thinking of you! Thank you for sharing your story, whether it makes me cry, laugh or just be greatful it always touches my heart.
Shannon says:
Heather and Mike….I think of your Maddie almost daily…and I’ve never met any of you face to face. Maddie is sooo beautiful. When I think of her, I see her eyes and her smile. Both stunning. We recently were out of town where I saw an Abby Cadabby doll and immediately thought of Maddie. I would think that there’s NOTHING that anyone can say to even take the edge off of the pain…but please know we remember your beatiful Maddie and are so, so, so sorry you have to edure all of this. Our hearts are wrapped around your family always, but especially during this time.
Amy says:
I didn’t know her, but it’s so obvious how incredibly special Madeline was and is. It seems impossible that she’s gone. Thank you so much for sharing her with all of us — she has touched the world.
kristi says:
she is such a beautiful soul. when i think of her (which is all the time), i see these images in my mind.. and i know that angels do exist.
my heart goes out to you and mike and annie. much love.
Tara says:
You are so brave to talk so openly about Maddie when I know it must be, often times, so hard to. I, a stranger to your family, will always remember Maddie and her amazing story. I will always admire you and Mike and I will always keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers. Sweet, sweet Maddie will forever inspire all of us.
Sara Joy says:
I can’t imagine what these pictures mean to you Heather. Thank you so much for sharing them with us. Thinking of you both so much right now, xoxo, SJ
.-= Sara Joy´s last blog ..You Capture – Feet =-.
Jenna says:
Your Maddie will never be forgotten… I think about you all often and “check in” on you daily. Sending you extra love during this tough anniversary…
Lisa says:
Thank you for sharing your beautiful daughter with us, and allowing us to know her and remember her; she was truly a remarkable little girl who is loved and missed by total strangers and we are so grateful you have welcomed us into your lives. May you know know peace in the days to come, and know that she has touched us in such a special way, and made all of our lives better. XOXO
Michelle W says:
It doesn’t even seem possible, yet I know just how real it is for all of you. I hurt for all of you and I tell your story, Maddie’s story, and she is loved by many as are all of you.
Kt says:
What beautiful pictures to document your last days together. So unfair that this happens to people – can hardly believe it’s been a year.
.-= Kt´s last blog ..2 more things =-.
Scatteredmom says:
I know someone already said this, but I’m glad that you had such a perfect day together in the sun, and a camera to capture it with.
The pictures are beautiful.
.-= Scatteredmom´s last blog ..Guess Who Dropped By? =-.
Rachel Cortest says:
My heart aches for you. These are such difficult days. I wish that we could go back in time and it would never happen. I do not understand how such a beautiful vibrant baby girl could die. Life is just insane yet we try to make sense of it. Maddie is absolutely stunning, exquisite, gorgeous, and incredibly expressive.
Cierra the naive 20 yr old says:
I feel compelled to say a prayer for you and your family. Being not highly religious and a fan of going to church. I feel that the power of prayer and daily communion with God can do wonders for my life. So know that someone is thinking good thoughts about you and your family and sending wishes to God for blessings in your life.
Dear Lord, my God.
Please bless this family and wrap them up together in your loving embrace. Use your hand to guide them through this difficult journey called life so that they may be reunited in the kingdom of Heaven with everlasting bliss for eternity.
In the name of the Father, the son, and the Holy Spirit!. Bless these children of God. Amen
Nadinsche says:
The last sentence makes me so sad. But I am also very happy to hear that one of your last days with little Maddie was such a perfect one!
HalynB says:
Heather, you and Mike have been in my thoughts almost constantly this week, knowing that this dreadful observance was coming. My heart aches for you.
She is so beautiful in all her pictures, but there is something about Maddie in yellow…maybe it’s because yellow makes one think of sunshine and flowers, which makes one think of sweetness and brightness…which brings one back to Maddie. What a precious child.
It’s beyond cruel and unfair that you had such a brief time with her. Thank you so much for sharing that time with us.
.-= HalynB´s last blog ..What to say =-.
Mary says:
She is such an exquisitely beautiful child….thinking of you all.
I hope Annie gives you all a lot of comfort in the next few days.
Nanette says:
Brent, Em and I are so honored to have shared part of that Saturday day with you.
When I think of Maddie, images from that day are burned deep into my brain – how gleeful she was and how the three of you brimmed with love for one another.
xoxo
.-= Nanette´s last blog ..And you thought all I posted were pics… =-.
Meg says:
One year later and my heart still aches for you. I am so sorry.
Candace says:
I love these pictures. I miss Maddie so much and I never even got to meet her. She has touched so many lives.
Today I will celebrate Maddie’s life, but only after I cry for your loss. I hope Annie is helping to keep your spirits up these days.
xoxo
.-= Candace´s last blog ..Oklahoma Weather Can Suck It! =-.
Darlene says:
My thoughts, prayers, love, and anything else I can send to you I will be this week. Madeline was such a gorgeous girl and she was so lucky to have parents who adored her the way you two did. She will never be replaced and she will never be forgotten. Take care.
MamaCas says:
I know that we, your readers, can never take away your pain. And we can never bring your Maddie back. But if our support and well wishes and *hugs* can ease even a sliver of your burden, the we have done our job. Please know that we are ALL thinking of you and our hearts break for you.
Andrea's Sweet Life says:
I wish I could take you back in time, transport you to this beautiful sunny day and so that you could enjoy it all over again. I wish so much that there was a do-over button. That Madeline was here with you, now enjoying another innocent sunny day.
I know no amount of wishing makes things better. Loving you, thinking of all of you, missing Maddie so much my heart hurts. xoxo
.-= Andrea’s Sweet Life´s last blog ..Ostrich =-.
Giselle says:
You amaze me everyday.
I know you can get through this week even when it seems impossible because you are unbelievably strong and Maddie will be watching over you, as always.
Thank you for sharing Maddie with us everyday. We treasure the memories even though we weren’t there to experience them.
Katherine says:
I’m sorry. It’s so unfair she’s not here.
serenity says:
Thinking of you. Love to all FOUR of you.
xxx
Kirsten says:
I think of you guys all the time but even more so with the anniversary of Maddie’s passing coming up. My heart is with you.
Tammy says:
I come by your site often, to look at pictures of Maddie and to just get to know her. Even through photos alone, she is just so vibrant and alive. I cry at each entry, thinking of your joy and loss. Thank you for sharing her with us.
Michelle Pixie says:
Holding you all very close to my heart yesterday, today, tomorrow, and always.
XOXOXOXO
.-= Michelle Pixie´s last blog ..Month 15 =-.
Deidre says:
Love those photos of that Saturday. I just can’t put words to your pain, but once again we are here for you, holding you up even though we can’t touch you, we are here for you. Always….
.-= Deidre´s last blog ..End The Funeral With A Wedding =-.
Laurie says:
A perfect day for a perfect girl.
Still thinking of you often and missing your little girl.
.-= Laurie´s last blog ..Easter 2010 =-.
Gale @ Ten Dollar Thoughts says:
I have nothing but love for you today. Your photos are stunning, as was Maddie herself. I will be walking in her honor in the March for Babies. Thank you for sharing your babies with us.
.-= Gale @ Ten Dollar Thoughts´s last blog ..So Long, Suburbs? =-.
Kim says:
Perfect reminder that life is short and tomorrow is not promised!
Mary Ann says:
Maddie looks soooo happy in those pictures, her expressions are precious, she has the most beautiful smile and I love her curls. I wish I could push a rewind button and make all this go away for you, it’s all so unfair and something I will never understand. I hope you only have perfect days from now on. I bought some purple pansy’s that I plan to plant on wednesday, I know it’s not much I just wanted you to know that even though we never met, she will always have a place in my heart. Sending you prayers and love.
Colleen says:
Sending you love and strength. This week and always.
.-= Colleen´s last blog ..Mock Fighting =-.
dee says:
Maddie is always with you and together, with Mike, Annie, Rigby and many others, she will help you get through this hardest of weeks. Sending the four of you love across the miles.
.-= dee´s last blog ..Slow and steady =-.
ally (adil320) says:
I wish so much that you could have another day with her.
You are doing an amazingly wonderful thing with your pain and your grief though. Every day I walk by the NICU on my way to work and I see a pink striped blanket laying on top of a incubator, and I am reminded of Maddie.
You have shared such an amazing gift with all of us, and we are proud to help you shoulder your pain.
I love you lady,
xoxox
.-= ally (adil320)´s last blog ..Wordless Wednesday =-.
Karen says:
Even for me it is hard to believe she was there just days before so beautiful in her sunny yellow dress enjoying a lovely Spring party and having a blast… and then she wasn’t. It was such a shock to read that she was gone. Just a shock.
I am so glad you all had that beautiful day together with friends and family and that she enjoyed such a wonderful time.
From the pictures and videos and stories you did and do share of her it seems she enjoyed and loved her life and her family and friends so.
In her short time she was deeply and greatly loved and she sang and she danced and she loved.
I am still so sorry you had to lose her. It really just doesn’t seem fair.
.-= Karen´s last blog ..Struggling against myself =-.
Jodie Brooks says:
Was thinking the same thing!! Sending hugs and prayers to you and your family!
Kristel says:
I can’t imagine what you are going through. How desperate you must be to hold onto these next few days so you can say, just a while longer, “a year ago…”. I wish the world would slow down for you. Heck, I wish it would turn back. Bringing Annie (and the rest of us) along for the ride, of course.
What a difference a year… a day.. an hour… a minute can make.
I feel guilty for knowing you. For feeling so connected to you and your family. For feeling so honoured and touched to call you ‘friend’, knowing the price that was paid for Maddie to have made such an impact and change so many lives, filling them with so much love. I feel guilty… yet so grateful… for you sharing her with the world. I’m forever torn between saying “thank you” and “I’m sorry”.
You are in my thoughts and heart more than you can ever know. While the memory and spirit of Maddie will be remembered and cherished, the heart of the world will ache for you on Wednesday… and everyday. *hugs*
.-= Kristel´s last blog ..Come Visit Me! =-.
Jen C. says:
So glad you had this day. And yet all the more of a reminder of just how quickly things changed almost a year ago. Wishing you all the best as this terrible anniversary approaches.
Clarice says:
I’m so sorry. Maddie is always in people’s thoughts all around the world. I’m so glad she got to spend that beautiful spring Saturday with her mommy and daddy…she deserved many more.
Mary says:
My thoughts & prayers are with you & Mike & your extended family too~I know Maddie had grandparents, etc, who miss her too.
I know we all associate purple w/Maddie, but I also think of her in sun-shiney yellow~I think because of the pictures you shared today & a year ago. And perhaps because her smile & her eyes simply lit up any room she was in as though it had suddenly been filled with sunshine.
I can only imagine how difficult this time is for you…deep grief & sorrow & yet the sweet presence of little Annabel.
Praying, as always, that Maddie visits you in your dreams.
~Mary
.-= Mary´s last blog ..Easter Brings Eggs! =-.
Beth says:
Maddie is the most beautiful little girl. So heartbreaking — and unfair — that this was your last “perfect day” together.
You are all in my thoughts… especially Maddie with her joyful smile. It’s hard to tell whose smile is bigger – Maddies’s or Mike’s. Precious pictures… precious little girl. xoxoxo
Zakary says:
Thinking of you all.
She is so gorgeous.
.-= Zakary´s last blog ..That’s The Joint, That’s The Jam =-.
Suzie-a stranger from IA says:
Thank you for sharing your “Maddie Moo” with us! You have all impacted my life more than you will ever know! Sending you strength and courage to continue on your journey of life. She has this amazing glow about her….Thoughts are going out to you, Mike, Annie, and Rigby and your whole extended family and friends. Be well my ‘friend
.
Karen Chatters says:
I don’t understand how that happens. I don’t understand how you can have the perfect day and then the worst. I’m thinking of you all and my heart is in two with grief.
.-= Karen Chatters´s last blog ..Hopping along =-.
Marcyr says:
She is so beautiful–and always so full of sunshine. HUGS….take care.
Amy Hendrix says:
Unimaginable.
Love to you all!
Katie C. says:
Maddie was just so absolutely gorgeous… I can’t believe it has been a year…. She will always be your sweet angel, watching over you. I hope that last perfect day lives on in your memory forever and ever.
Sending hugs your way.
Erin says:
I cant even think of the words to say…i cant imagine. but i know her time here was wonderful. You are in my thoughts today…this week and always. What a beautiful little girl you have to remember for the rest of your life. I know its not the way you want, or should be….but like i said, i just cant find the words. I would give you a hug, and let you cry. xoxo
Vanessa Jordan says:
my heart aches so badly for you and Mike, there are no words, nothing that I or anyone can say will take this horrible pain away.
I can ask why all day long, and it will cause me to never grow strong.
Sometimes, there is no answer, its just out ther, our pain so public. I don’t think there will come an answer here, just my pain and fear.
I pray that somewhere she sings a purple song, of heart so strong, and love so long, that she smiles upon her mother and father’s face and puts there a certain pace.
to reach out to others like her, to ease their ache, for only you understand what they must take, how they must watch their lovely baby fight to survive in this battle that comes with a premature mistake.
no one’s fault, but anger inside hunts for someone to blame, sometimes its the one in the mirror that carry’s the shame.
If she could let you hear her purple song, you would know your so wrong, you done exactly what was right, for you daughter day and night.
that she knows, that she holds, looking into your face is what she knows, there is where her love and comfort came, a stronghold in the rain.
Heather, when I started to write to you this just came out, I could barely type as fast as it was coming into my minds eye, I pray what I wrote wouldn’t upset you or Mike, I just wanted you to know from my heart to yours, that your pain is so hard for us all, If I could take it away for you and Mike I would, take care, hugs for you all Annie too!!!!
Vanessa Jordan says:
Heather I got worried that you would think the part that says a premature mistake meant Maddie, IT DIDN’T, it means the premature birth, no one’s fault we don’t know why our babies come early, but that is what I was referring to absolutely not Maddie, nothing about that sweetheart was a mistake, I just wanted to make sure to clarify that, hugs.
Vanessa
Molly says:
I’m so sorry, Heather. I hate that this day is creeping up on us. Maddie is so beautiful and so wonderful.
Jannette says:
My favorite pictures of Maddie are of her in the yellow dress. So many times, these pictures bring me comfort, but not today. Today I have been grieving for a little girl that I never met nor did I know her while she was here. Yet, I think of her every day.
Thank you for sharing Maddie with us.
Heather says:
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your families, Heather and Mike. My heart aches for you both when I think of all that you have been through in the past year. Thank you for sharing a little bit of Maddie with us every day..
Ray says:
You wrote a long time ago, “You will always be the daughter I’ve always wanted.” I’ll never forget that. Ever. And Madeline will always be your daughter. Always.
Jenn says:
Your Madeline, touched something in me that I could not bring out. I am forever inspired by her tenacity and yours. And Mike too
Forever, you will all be in my heart.
I am so deeply sorry that your Madeline is not here anymore because the world has truly been robbed of a perfect little person.
Thank you for sharing all that you have with us (the readers).
.-= Jenn´s last blog ..Great Expectations for Jake =-.
Tara. says:
I’m so glad you had that day, in the sunshine, with so much happiness. ?
Crystal says:
Those big beautiful eyes are captivating and every time I read your blog I miss a little girl I never met but has managed to touch my heart. I am so sorry for your loss, though those words seem so inadequate to convey the depth of my sincerity or your grief.
Elise says:
Maddie is such a beautiful, sweet soul. What a precious, amazing little girl. Such a heartbreaking loss. I wish you strength to get through these most difficult days.
Kristi says:
I am always so moved by the way you give voice to your pictures – pictures that encompass your moments and memories. May your memories offer you some small comfort as you acknowledge the anniversary of the passing of your precious, beloved child. Madeline’s spirit and beauty live on and resonate in our hearts… thank you for sharing her with us.
anymommy says:
Sending you love, lots of extra love this week, and always. She is captivating. Her pictures always make me stop. That’s how I first found your blog.
.-= anymommy´s last blog ..How to spot a mother of four =-.
Lisa says:
that is so incredibly sad and wrong! how can such a healthy little girl be here one day, bringing joy to all those that see her and then be gone so quickly. Heather and Mike I’m so sorry for your loss. there is no way to comprehend it.
Susan says:
Thinking of you today, tomorrow and all this week. Thoughts, prayers and love.
Lise says:
I think of you daily, but this week I’m holding you in my heart even more than usual.
Amanda says:
Sending you my warmest thoughts and love, know that even though we are all strangers, we are all here for you if you need us. Thank you for sharing Maddie with us.. what a beautiful wonderful treasure she is.
Kel says:
I may have never known Maddie personally but your stories make me feel as though I did. So beautiful. Thank you for sharing.
Jenni Williams says:
My heart aches for you and Mike. Maddie is so deeply missed, even by those of use who never were blessed with the chance to know her. Thank you for sharing her love and life with all of us. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
.-= Jenni Williams´s last blog ..World Autism Awareness Day =-.
Sarah says:
((((((HUGS))))
Amanda/babya says:
Sending love, love, love from Nor Cal. That’s all I can say.
Carrie says:
Thinking of you and praying for you- this week especially.
.-= Carrie´s last blog ..Don’t worry, I’m not going to get all political on you here =-.
Kelley Land says:
I still can’t believe she is gone. Just looking at her–one of the most vibrant, breathtaking children I’ve ever seen–it’s truly unbelievable to know that she no longer lives on this earth. There is nothing I could ever say to express how sad I am that this happened to her and to your family. I pray for your peace deep within, even as you ache to hold your baby again.
.-= Kelley Land´s last blog ..March 21 =-.
Amy Collen says:
Horrible and so not fair….
meg...ct says:
That timeline seems so impossible to me…how in the world can that beautiful, healthy child be gone??? I am sure it is a question you ask your self every single day!! I wish it weren’t the truth…you guys are in my every thought and prayer as you make your way through this very difficult week. Peace and love.
Amanda says:
What a life of love-drenched moments she has to replay again and again. There is no salve for this wound, I am sure. Aching and marveling.
.-= Amanda´s last blog ..In another’s eyes =-.
mythoughtsonthat says:
As always, just a doll.
A hard time for you.
Faith….Hope….Love….Peace.
.-= mythoughtsonthat´s last blog ..Guess The Joke’s On Me =-.
Kathryn says:
I just look at those words, our Madeline is gone, and my heart breaks for you all over again. My husband has asked me why I am crying over someone I don’t even know and doesn’t know me. But in a strange way, I kind of do know her, through this blog and through you. I feel honored in that fact. That in my own part of the world, way down here in Atlanta, I am able to see the beauty in a child I never met, watch her parents miss her so, so much, see them blessed with a beautiful new baby, and see the baby they lost remembered in such a sweet and perfect way.
I don’t know if you read all of these comments or if this sounds cheesey. I have a disabled child and we’ve almost lost him several times. He’s 12 now. Maybe that’s why this all touches my heart so much.
Kirsten says:
Hugs, love and strength to get you through the next days, weeks, months…..
carrielu says:
Heather-
I found your website via the momversation website. I have been going through and reading your posts from the beginning, and I am so blessed as a mother to have “met” Maddie, and then Annie, through your words. To hear the struggles you and Mike have faced, the joy and the unimaginable pain, I believe you are a hero. Putting words to your feelings for others to learn from, but also be judged by, is brave and your feelings about both of your daughters are such a testimony to your love for them. I pray that you both feel the love your daughters have for the two of you, love from your friends, both real and virtual.
Thank you for sharing your story, you have touched my life.
amy says:
Unimaginably sad…
Thinking of you guys. This has to be the hardest anniversary you two will share.
Hoping it is not as tragic as you imagine
Sherry says:
Thinking of you and your family during this time. I’m very sorry you have to go through this pain, your daughter will always live on in SO many people’s hearts, including mine.
.-= Sherry´s last blog ..Zoo Trip =-.
mbbored says:
Many many prayers for you, Mike, Maddie and Annie today.
April says:
No words can express what you and your family are going through.
Sweet Maddie will never be forgotten.
amy says:
I am so very,very sorry.
Lynnette says:
Sending hugs your way. You, Mike, Maddie, and Annie are in my thoughts daily. I am glad you had that perfect day with Maddie. I am sorry for your loss of that perfect little girl.
Christine says:
Oh Heather.
All I could do was start to cry as I read this post and looked at the pictures.
Just not knowing what was around the corner…
All my love to you and your loved ones.
.-= Christine´s last blog ..Message from a Mom. =-.
Glenda says:
Thinking of you, Mike and Annie this week. Sending you all hugs. Thanks for sharing Maddie with all of us. XX
Jen L. says:
Sending tons of love your way this week and always.
.-= Jen L.´s last blog ..Comfort Food Saturday: Stuffed Shells =-.
Eve says:
I think of your beautiful daughter nearly every day. I have no words for you except that I send my love, and I have such respect and admiration for how strong you and your family are.
Sarah M. says:
Just like so many before have said, thank you for sharing Maddie with us. I wish you could’ve had a million more perfect days with her, but I hope it brings you some comfort knowing she’s had such a tremendous impact on so many people. We’re all better people for knowing her.
Ann says:
my thoughts are with you and Mike, Heather, and of course Maddie’s grandparents and her uncle Kyle. Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful girl with us, and for honouring her in your amazing way.
Dawn says:
Sending {hugs} your way!
.-= Dawn´s last blog ..it comes with stipulations =-.
Annie says:
Heart broken for you. That is all I can say. My 8 year old son sometimes reads your blog with me. He looks at Maddie’s picture and says, “Her eyes are so happy, momma. I can’t believe she is gone. ” This from a child who never even knew her. She has touched so many lives. Praying so hard for all of you.
Rachel says:
Many hugs and prayers beaming your way this week. You have such an amazing way of sharing, and I hope it helps in some small way to help you get through each day. Her perfect pictures are perfectly beautiful. I hope Annie gives extra big snuggles this week..
@kristeneileen says:
I love you, I love you, I love you all, forever.
beth says:
we are LONG time followers…we are thinking of you and saying more special prayers for you this week
sarah says:
My heart is breaking for you all over again. Thinking of your family this week.
.-= sarah´s last blog ..In Praise of Peeps… =-.
JustAMom says:
I don’t know what to say. Every time I read a post like this I just cry and think dammit. It just isn’t fair. Maddie was absolutely radiant. God bless you all. Xoxox
Monkey's Mama says:
Knocks the breath out of me to read this. What unimaginable pain you have been through. Lots of love to you both during this 1st anniversary.
Vera says:
I remember looking at these yellow dress pictures over and over again last year – she is SO SO beautiful in them! I’m so sorry that you are going through this rough anniversary, I wish there was something I could say to help. Just know what Madeline lives in a LOT of hearts and always will!
.-= Vera´s last blog ..Easter 2010 =-.
Scottish lass says:
love to you.
.-= Scottish lass´s last blog ..Foolery. =-.
Alicia @bethsix says:
I feel like it can’t be true. There has to be some way to rewind because it’s just so not right. I can’t imagine how you feel. (Obviously.) I just hurt for you.
That “deep thoughts” photo, oh my gosh. BEAUTY.
So sorry you can’t sleep through this week.
.-= Alicia @bethsix´s last blog ..I am not Alicia! =-.
Kayla says:
If a million “I’m so sorry’s” could bring Maddie back to you, I would say five million. For now though, I hope they at least bring you a small bit of comfort in this darkest hour – I am so, so, so deeply sorry Heather.
“A thousand words won’t bring you back, I know, because I’ve tried. And neither will a million tears, I know, because I’ve cried.”
Sammy says:
I never met you, Maddie, but I am inspired by you everyday.
Vic says:
Just how unfair it is, that your gorgeous, sweet, beautiful little Madeline was taken away from your, breaks my heart. There are no words that could ever change what happened, no words could repair damage done…but I hope some of what has been written here, will help heal your utter sorrow and pain. We’re all from different walks of life, from different countries, from different races, all standing here by your side, supporting you and Mike and Annie too.
The love that we all have for you, crosses boundaries, territories and states.
Please know that you’re always and forever in our thoughts.
Restless Mama says:
Lots of aloha being sent your way.
xoxo
.-= Restless Mama´s last blog ..Freedom in a Two Week Notice =-.
PrincessJenn says:
Love and Hugs forever and ever.
xoxoxo
.-= PrincessJenn´s last blog ..Follow Friday – Sending Love =-.
Michelle H. says:
Beautiful, beautiful Maddie. I miss that smile and those eyes. Lots of prayers for you as the day approaches.
binkytowne says:
I know purple is Maddie’s color but that bright, happy, sunshiny yellow has to be a close runner up. I am holding you up in my thoughts today. She’s in your heart Heather, try to never lose sight of that in these hard days. She’s there and in every ray of sunshine.
.-= binkytowne´s last blog ..Rightthissecond =-.
krissa says:
Words fail me. But you and your family are in my thoughts and heart.
Katy says:
Hugs
Rachel Stoehr says:
Maddie is gorgeous… such a heartbreaking story. Sending out some hugs to all of you this week.
Ninabi says:
I am holding you and your family in my heart today. Remembering your precious, beautiful Maddie, sharing her sweetness with those of us who never met her and sadly never will- please know that I am so sorry you lost her.
Kristen says:
Stunning little Maddie. I’ll never, ever forget her.
karen says:
i still think Maddie is the most beautiful baby i have ever seen….i am so sorry….
Lisa says:
absolutely priceless pictures. Works of art. Such a beautiful, perfect, and innocent subject.
.-= Lisa´s last blog ..Global Warming is Real =-.
Elaine says:
What a beautiful day with such wonderful memories. I know you’ll hold the close forever.
.-= Elaine´s last blog ..Weighty Issues =-.
Jill says:
Missing that smile, the expressions of happiness and the love and joy between you three… Such a sweet girl that is missed everyday!
Al_Pal says:
Your story and your Maddie, along with some other people in my life, have been a strong reminder that there are no guarantees.
Bless you all, for reminding us to live each day to the fullest. We’ll never forget your darling girl. She is such a ray of sunshine.
xoxo
Ginger says:
I am so glad you hang onto that beautiful day. My heart aches for you.
.-= Ginger´s last blog ..Going some place where the gum isn’t stinky =-.
Mrs. Flinger says:
I remember that day. I remember the day after and the day after that. I remember all of it with too much clarity. I can only imagine your memories.
It’s been a year and we are still here for you, loving you and your family and Maddie with her big wide glorious blue eyes.
My daughter loves her. She’s never met her but she knows her. She’s still here with us in our house.
.-= Mrs. Flinger´s last blog ..My Very Own Jillian Michaels =-.
Jenn says:
This will ALWAYS make me cry!!!!!….ALWAYS!!!!!!!!!!!!!