For this week’s Friday Movie, we wanted to show the video that we shared at Madeline’s service. It’s long, but it is so perfectly her. It makes me smile and cry. She was the most special person, and we all miss her so so much.
The Tribute to Our Madeline from Mike and Heather on Vimeo.
Thank you so much for loving our daughter.
{ 205 comments… read them below or add one }
How can I miss someone so much that I never met? Thank YOU for sharing your daughters.
My exact thoughts. Miss that little beauty SO much even though I was never lucky enough to get to meet her.
Me too….. I miss her soooo much….. Love the video…. Thank you,
I’m a first time commenter. I’ve been reading your blog for about a year now and I too cannot believe how I can miss someone I never met. My heart hurts for you! Maddie is so beautiful!
I feel the same way. I think of her nearly everyday. She made an impact on this world the most people, even if they live to 100, can’t even come close to.
I feel the same way as Jenni. She’s had more of an impact on this world than any of us will ever know. Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful Madeline with us. She’s so easy to love. I never met her, but I know I’ll never stop loving her.
The impact you have all made on so many people in this world is tremendous! Although we have never met, there is never a day that goes by that I don’t think of her and read about Annabel. I will cherish her memory forever and will continue to watch Annabel grow! Thanks Heather for reaching out to all of us!
I think Kerri speaks for many of us.
Those eyes, those eyeLASHES, those cheekbones, that smile and (most of all) that spirit.
She was a bundle of wonderful, truly. Thank you for sharing her with us.
Crying.
She is so, so beautiful.
what a beautiful soul – she was certainly wise beyond her years. thank you for sharing – it’ s a blessing and a gift to have maddie in our lives!
Just beautiful… Maddie, the tribute, everything… it’s all so beautiful. Maddie will forever live on in our hearts. Thank you for sharing this priceless video with us.
She is a star – anyone who ever came across your blog could not forget Madeline. She lived so fiercely – in her photos, in videos you posted. I am so sorry, always.
If everything was as easy as loving Madeline!
catherine lucas´s last [type] ..Dining rooms and a sun parlour
Thank YOU for letting us know such an energetic, charming, beautiful girl.
Wishing your family all the best.
This made me cry and smile, too! What an incredible happy child she was! And what a perfect little person!! Lucky Maddie that she has you as her parents. She made your life perfect but you also made hers perfect. It is so unfair that she’s not with you anymore. I will never forget your Madeline as long as I live!
I can’t even comprehend.
This made me cry from 41 seconds.
What a perfect little girl- with such amazing parents.
We are so lucky to get to share your girls lives, but this shouldn’t have happened its just not fair.
My heart literally aches watching this. Thank you for sharing your precious Madeline with all of us. Seeing videos of her brings me to tears every single time.
Thank you for sharing her and allowing us to love her.
My t-shirt is soaked in tears. Thank you for sharing that. Thank you for sharing Madeline with us. Because of your blog, because of your words and photos and everything – I feel like I knew her.
Thank you.
I cried and smiled too…thank you for sharing
Heather, thank you so much for sharing this. I’ve seen it before, but it’s so amazing each time you see it. She is such a beautiful girl! She may have been taken from you so cruelly and so soon, but you lived so much through her. She is a special girl and one that we all are blessed to have been able to get to know. Thank you for that chance.
Thank you for sharing it with us again. It’s beautiful.
Simply beautiful
It’s heartbreaking
It is just so unfair. This is what goes trough my mind every time you write about her.
I think about her daily.
Heather, thank you sharing. I could not keep a dry eye throughout it. Your photographs and memories are incredible. You are amazing people–I am in awe of your strength.
i made me bawl then.. and now… love her so so much.
Hey Sweetie,
Even though I have watched that video a few times, my feelinng have not changed. I look her and think about not only is she just so beautiful on the outside, but she is as equally as beautiful on the inside. It’s so NOT fair!!! Maddie should be here with you and her sister. What a cruel twist of fate…all over a small procedure you once mentioned that went so terribily wrong. How unfair….how not right!
I wish I was able to reach through the screen and bring her right back to you and Mike. I wish that more than anything!
Please know with every smile I make when I look at Maddie it is easily followed byyr Dfound sadness, many tears and the one and only question I ask God…”WhyMaddie”?
My thoughts, love and friendship are forever sent to you, Mike and Annie!
Sincerely,
Your Friend,
Jenn
This tribute is amazing, but I can’t watch it today until I have some time to sit and cry. I miss that gorgeous little girl. Sending thoughts of strength and love your way.
So much personality in such a tiny person. What an absolutely joy filled child she was. And, so loved. So loved.
This is soooooooooo beautiful,,,,,,,,,,,,,,gorgeous little Maddie
I watched this video about a week ago. It is truly a beautiful tribute to your beautiful little girl. Don’t you wonder now how you were ever able to plan the service?? Those are the things that I think of. And I always wonder now, how I was ever able to leave PICU after the tubes were removed. Thank god for the numbness of early grief. Maddie will always be in my heart. Cleo, my two year old grandbaby, plays with her Maddie Monster. Maddie lives on…
Maddie, so loved…indeed. Still and always.
Forever loved, forever missed, forever adored by even those she never even met or kissed.
Sending you lots of peace-filled, loving thoughts.
I read you every day, and marvel always at how you’ve done such an amazing job of moving forward with your life. Watching the video only strengthens that thought for me. It breaks my heart for you to see all those images of that little beauty and know that you don’t get to hold her and talk to her and see her every day. I will hug my girls tighter today and find an ounce more of patience when I’m feeling overwhelmed. You and Mike truly are strong, amazing parents and I am so sad for you that Maddie is off an a different adventure.
I couldn’t have put this any other way. Thank you so much for sharing this with us…
Oh Heather and Mike. My heart is filled with happiness at seeing Maddie’s big bright eyes and hearing her squeals, but it’s breaking with sadness at the same time. I can’t imagine to bear the magnitude of emotions that you feel. Thank you for sharing Maddie with us, for allowing us to love her and take you guys in as extended family.
Maddie’s legacy lives on every day. What a beautiful little girl. I hate every day that passes that she’s not with you guys.
Wishing you love, peace, strength and all the hugs you can imagine, plus 4 more.
XOXO from GA,
Nikki
So much love in that video! Missing Maddie always!!!
AmazingGreis´s last [type] ..9-02-10
I LOVE IT!!!! It is so fun to watch…she radiates joy. I know every day is a struggle for you…and I am so sorry knowing that there is no end to your sadness…it is hard to understand why someone so filled with joy and love could have been taken from this earth so soon. I pray every passing day brings more smiles than tears.
I watch my brother and sister in law so new on their journey of grief with out their beautiful daughter and it breaks my heart. You have shared your grief so intimately that I feel like I know what is in store for them…it is not something I would wish on anyone!
Prayers for peace and happiness to you and to anyone who has had to say goodbye to their child…it is not right.
Meg
May all the children here on earth feel one-tenth of the love surrounding this beautiful angel in heaven. Thank you once again for sharing such a wonderful gift…..
With much love,
Val in Ohio
I wonder how many children will be hugged just that much harder tonight all for the love of Madeline…
Thank you for sharing something so special Heather- and for all those days that she made the world so much brighter- thank you for letting her shine.
I just finished watching your beautiful video! I sat with my daughter on my lap and we watched it together! When it was over she clapped like it was the best show she had seen yet! Thank you for sharing!
Such a beautiful tribute to such a beautiful girl. If every child could be loved as much as Maddie, the world would be an infinitely better place. You are loved Madeline and you are so missed.
I never normally comment on your blog, though I read it every day, and I just wanted to say – who could help themselves from loving Madeline?
Sending love to all of the Spohr family today.
It’s so beautiful how you have so many memories with her but I know it’s also very sad that you weren’t able to make new ones. I only had 10 hours with my son so I don’t have many memories but I do cherish that ones I have. Just remember that your family has a very special Angel watching over you.
“Some people only dream of Angels, we held one in our hands”, I have this in a little plaque right next to Lil’ Ricky’s urn.
There just are not words.
I am so touched… crying so hard with a heartfelt smile watching that little perfect angel! She is so lucky to have had you and Mike as her parents. What a blessing she was and still is. I can’t begin to imagine your pain. Just know I think of you daily and your in my prayers. Wish I could give you a hug! xoxo
Who could not love Maddie after seeing her sweet face. Much love today and always.
What a beautiful and heartwarming video.
For such a short life, she has had a major impact on so many lives. Thank you for sharing her with us. Beautiful Maddie.
I don’t know you. I read your blog and love it. I never knew Madeline… but my life has been touched. There are not words for how beautiful that video is. I wish so much you could have her in your arms.
Beautiful. And we do indeed, love your daughter (s)!
I’ve been following your blog every single day for a long time now and have never posted, but today I wanted to tell you how much your little Madeline has impacted me. I truly feel like I know her and I thank you for sharing her with us. What a beautiful video. I have a lump in my throat and my cheeks are soaked with tears, but I’m smiling. What a loved little girl.
I never thought I would miss and love someone I never actually got to meet, but I do for your Maddie. What a beautiful little spark she was, and it is eternally unfair that she is gone. Eternally. Thank you so much for sharing her with us and for continuing to do so.
(((hugs)))
Deborah´s last [type] ..New Images and Some Musings on Focus
I love that video. It still moves me to tears knowing she isnt with you while watching.
thank you for sharing the video. i could watch it a thousand times. what a beauty, inside and out. her spirit shines through on the screen.
much love to you all today.
Heather and Mike,
That video never gets old. I love it!!! It’s perfect, just like she was. You are doing an amazing job of keeping her alive. Her legacy of love and joy is living on. I’m so glad to have been impacted by this amazing little girl, Sweet Madeline, who has touched the world in such a BIG way. I’m a better person because of her.
~Kristi
Thank you for letting us love your daughter.
Yes, thank you for letting us love her with you. She is so beautiful.
How is possible for me to miss someone I never met? Maddie is so beautiful and forever in all of our thoughts. I love the fact that both girls have your cheeks & chin! They’re both so precious!! Thank you for sharing both of your beautiful daughters with us. After all, it’s not fair for you to keep all that cuteness to yourself
Thank you for sharing this with us.
I am so very sorry that she is no longer with us. She is just so beautiful!!!!! I can see why Annie loves watching her videos!
Kayla
I love this video. I watch it frequently. Whenever I miss Maddie, or I’m thinking a lot about all of you I will watch the video. It shows how special she was, how loved she is.
Love and hugs today and always.
Lisa´s last [type] ..Sending Love
Beautiful. Maddie will live with us forever. Thank you for sharing it with us!
Heather,
That video is beautiful. I don’t know you guys except for the internet. But I think about Maddie and you guys every day. I am so grateful for knowing your story. Thank you for sharing this video!
Sarah
Lovely.
It wasn’t too long. I could’ve watched her all day. You guys got a raw deal.
Beautiful…
I love this video. No matter how many times I watch this, I cry every time.
mel´s last [type] ..small change
What a beautiful tribute to a beautiful child. I’m so, so sorry she isn’t with you. It was cut tragically short, but what a wonderful life you gave her while she was with you here. Watching that video leaves no doubt that she knew how loved and special she was. What a lucky little girl she was to have you and how lucky you were to have her. She squeezed in more laughter, fun and smiles into her short time here than a lot of people do who are here for much longer. Thank you for sharing her.
I cry every time I watch this. She is so beautiful… big hug. xoxoxo
Jodee´s last [type] ..Mason is handsome
Beautiful beautiful girl.
matt lauer on the beach makes me cringe too mads..
much love lil’ princess.
This video gets me every time. I love watching it though. Thank you for sharing your beautiful memories with all of us. She’s so lovely.
She was such a lively and animated little girl! The video was very bittersweet. Lovely to see some of her special moments but so sad that she’s gone. Thank you for sharing her with us.
Thank you for sharing Madeline with us. I echo the sentiments of many people in these comments when I say, how can I possibly miss someone I have never met so much. I think it’s because she was an angel here on earth, and she was meant to spread so much love that her absence is heartbreaking.
Think of you and your family.
Beautiful….
Heather, your strength and grace continues to amaze me. The video is beautiful, as are your two daughters. Maddie will be in my thoughts today as I am sure she will be in the thoughts of many others.
She is beautiful and amazing and very very missed.
So so so beautiful
What a beautiful little girl. Heather she is so special. Thank you for sharing her with us. Praying for you all and sending you lots of hugs.
Nicole´s last [type] ..Stream of Consciousness
Laughter through tears. Thank you for sharing her.
Maddie is truly loved and missed it’s so obvious even to this day. She stole the the hearts of everyone that had the pleasure of reading about her and seeing her beautiful pictures. We all miss Maddie so much and love you all so much! Love you! Love Maddie!
Perfect…in almost every way. We all miss Maddie…
How can you not love her?
And you.
xoxoxo
Such a perfect little girl and so happy, I don’t think I’ve ever seen a child smile and laugh as much as she did. My heart aches for you and Mike.
Simply beautiful….
She touches so many lives at such a young age. It’s not fair that we don’t get to see how she would change the world when she was older! That’s the one thing I can’t understand and never will.
Hi Heather–when I checked your blog this morning I asked my two year old son Will if he wanted to watch Maddie’s video and he said yes. As soon as we started watching it he said “I love that baby, what’s her name?” and I told him “her name is Maddie”. He said in turn ” I love that Maddie” with such sincerity it broke my heart. So here we are…all the way in North Carolina… never having met you and loving your sweet Maddie so much. You are in my thoughts often.
After watching the beautiful video I was able to contain my tears…but this comment made the tears just flow out. How touching.
She truly was such an amazing, beautiful girl. Her smile always brings a smile to face because she was always so happy and loved but then I always shed so many tears because her life was cut way to short. As a Mom myself, my heart breaks for you and your family that you lost such an amazing little girl who was so perfect.
Laura´s last [type] ..Summer turns to FALL!
God Heather the enormity of your loss is just…I don’t have the words. She really just exuded sunshine, didn’t she? Nothing but happiness and light shines from her in those pictures and videos. She was very blessed to have you as parents. Thank you for sharing her with us because she does bring that light into the lives of a lot of people that never knew her.
I never comment but I read your blog daily, I can’t remember when or how I found your blog but this morning as my toddler and I watched your tribute I cried buckets. My sweet toddler kept pointing at Maddie saying pretty baby. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.
Micaela´s last [type] ..Selfish
I am sitting here devastated by the loss of this ray of sunshine, this beautiful little girl, and I never even got to meet her. Thank you for sharing her with us and letting us love her just a little bit too.
Kristin´s last [type] ..Is this my last first
So loved by so many, who just like me, never got to meet her. I will forever remember your Sweet Maddie!
(((HUGS))) from Florida
My heart just breaks.
Lessons in Life and Light´s last [type] ..Guilt & Catharsis
Heather – I’ve been reading your blog for a little over a year now and haven’t commented yet – I’ve wanted to, but didn’t know what to say and today’s the day I need to. I watched every moment of the wonderful video to Maddie – I’ve been thinking about you guys so much since yesterday’s post. As so many have posted already, she’s so loved by many of us who never met her.
I have a 17-month old daughter myself. I squeeze her extra hard for Maddie sometimes.
Lots of love from Pittsburgh!
She is GORGEOUS and vivacious and just as perfect as any child can be (just like her little sis). I’m so glad we’ve gotten to know her through you.
I feel like I’ll remember Maddie my entire life, way after I’ve stopped reading your blog, when my own two little girls are grown, I’ll remember her, and I’ll smile thinking of the day you are reunited in heaven. My heart will be full.
Thank you for sharing her with us.
I can’t think of anything to say that hasn’t already been said. Maddie lived so much in such a short time. She was a true character and one we’ll always remember. The photos are so beautiful and thank you for sharing.
My little boy and I just watched the video, he was captivated by Maddie, while tears streamed down my face. Her beautiful light radiates now and always! Thanks for sharing.
Wow… I can’t explain how I can miss someone so much whom I have never met. This video is precious, has me in tears sitting in my cubicle. This will be great to show Annie some day, or even now.
I keep Maddie’s name alive by typing her name into google every morning to find your blog.
Is it strange that I often look for your tribute video and laugh and cry throughout the whole video? Maybe. I guess that shows how special and how beautiful she was inside and out. I can’t imagine how much more I would miss her if I had known her personally. Love and thoughts go out to you.
What a joyful little girl Maddie was. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a baby so happy or so beautiful. Thank you for sharing her life with us. We hurt with you.
My heart hurts for your family. What a beautiful little soul you guys were blessed with.
so beautiful!
I’ve watched this video many times before and yet today I still bawled for the entire thing and ten minutes afterward.
How can I love and miss that sweet little girl so much when I never even met her? I don’t know but I do. My heart is broken for you. She will always be loved and never forgotten.
Abigail @ Skywaitress´s last [type] ..The coffee girl
BEAUTIFUL video! thanks for sharing
Sweet, lovely, joyful Maddie. I can’t imagine how much you must miss her. Thank you for sharing that beautiful video.
Oh Heather, she is just beautiful. I am so grateful that I have gotten to know Maddie through you. Even though she has been gone longer than she was here, I know that she will live on in your heart, your spirit, your stories and your life.
love you.
Kim´s last [type] ..Random Bits and Pieces
I truly believe she is the most beautiful child i have ever seen in my life….thank you for sharing her with all of us…
She has touched so many lives and is loved and missed by so many people who never even met her. My heart goes out to you and Mike.
I’ve been reading your blog for over a year now and feel like I know your family. We pray for you guys and I hope that with each day, it gets a little easier. Maddie will forever live on, not only in your hearts, but in the hearts of so many whose lives she’s touched through your amazing blog.
Many hugs,
Jane
She is, and always will be, so incredibly loved.
xoxo
Overflowing Brain (Katie)´s last [type] ..HELLthcare
Heather,
I have read your blog for months but never responded until today. I am a mom of two boys and I hope they feel the same love from me as your girls obviously feel from you. I know you were cheated of time with Maddie but just from what I have read about you and Mike, you packed a lifetime of love (and more) into the months you had with her. It’s obvious she knew that–those eyes gives it all away. We all feel lucky to have “known” her but she seems like the lucky one, too. What love.
Isn’t it amazing how so many people who have never even met Maddie, can love her so much? Can cry along with you? We can’t feel what you feel….never in a million years can we even imagine the heartache you go through every single day. That video just pours of love and for you to share all of that with us….for you to still continue sharing your daily life with us….is incredible. To let us in on something so precious and special….we truly do love you, and I hope you can feel that.
Thank you for sharing the pure delight that is Maddie.
Such a beautiful video. So many special memories in there. I laughed and I cried-it was so amazing. Thank you for sharing it with us. I know this is an especially hard couple of days for you both.
I loved the video clip of Maddie talking to Daddy on the phone, her face when she heard his voice was priceless!
Many hugs and lots of love to both of you today.
She’s so beautiful.
Thank you for letting us love your daughters.
Madeline will never be forgotten. She has touched so many lives, I think it’s safe to say that anybody who has even read about her will continue to think of her on a daily basis.
I have nothing but insane amounts of love for you & your family, even though i’ve never met you guys.
maddie continues to be so beautiful and inspiring. love the video, thank you for sharing it.
hugs-
Maddie is so beautiful. Thank you for sharing your daughter with us. I hope someday to have a child that is as luminous and wonderful as Madeline is, and who I will be as good a mama to her as you are to your girls.
Thank you so much for sharing all with us what a special little girl Maddie was. I didnt know her, but i miss her and stilll cant believe how someone so beautiful could be taken away. Thinking of you and Mike and Annie!
i really have never seen a more photogenic, happy, sweet baby. i think of your family everyday.
I think of you and your family everyday! Your strength astounds me!
It makes me so sad that the world is missing out on your beautiful girl’s presence…
a´s last [type] ..Any Excuse for Cake!
I’m smiling and crying in Indiana.
She just should not, should not be gone. Those precious baby teeth that should have fallen out for big ones and gone to the tooth fairy some day.
One of my favorites of her photos is the one of her reclining in the suitcase with her arms behind her head and her ankles crossed like a 40-year-old on a business trip to Cancun.
She was such an amazing person and her eyes were so beautiful- not just because they were huge and blue and had a lovely shape, but because of the great passion and strength and life and love that shone through them.
Amazing. Sending love to all of you today….
You are two of the strongest people. I watched this about a month ago and it is so special yet so heartbreaking. What a blessing to have had Maddie in your life and what a blessing to now have Annie too.
you amaze me every day, thank you for sharing with us. In so many ways she reminds me of my little guy who was born at 28 weeks. My thoughts are often with you
Heather,
Breaks my heart that Maddie is no longer with us here on Earth. Small consolation, but you and Mike packed a lifetime of love and memories into her too short life.
God Bless you and your family and big hugs to all of you. You truly are amazing people.
Amazing video! Thanks for sharing it! Sure makes me snug my kids a litle more today!
xxxooo
Beautiful, absolutely beautiful.
Madeline = pure sunshine, radiance, love and magic. Thank you for sharing her with us.
Momttorney´s last [type] ..FACES
Thank you. Bawling my eyes out and smiling at the same time. She’s absolutely lovely.
I’m pretty sure I’ve never commented here, though I have been reading for awhile. But right now, at this moment, I. AM. COMPELLED.
Heather, you love your Maddie Moo so beautifully. You keep her alive, vibrant, very present before us. Her smile, those eyelashes, her squeals of joy, it is all right here, even 515 days later.
You love your sweet Maddie well. It is amazing to watch you love her baby sister the same way. Oh, if we all loved (and were loved) that same way. If life were measured by how we loved and were loved in return, Maddie certainly achieved in life what many do not achieve in a lifetime.
Wish she was still here. Wish we could all meet her. But keep the memories coming, because I can’t get enough of the smile that lights up the universe.
Her eyes show nothing more than pure joy in every single image. Could she be more beautiful? I don’t think so.
Heather, I don’t know you, or Mike, and I never met Maddie. But when I think of how fucked up unfair life can be, your family always crosses my mind. And if I had one wish, I would truly, with all my heart, ask for your Maddie to be back where she belongs, from where she should never, ever, be taken away.
I hope you can find comfort, and I hope your life has more laughs than tears.
Thank you for sharing.
Remembering her with you (*hugs*) Here’s from DragonDreamer’s Lair… She was such a beautiful and vibrant little girl, the video brought me to tears. So very sorry for your loss.
Another Dreamer´s last [type] ..Underway-
I’m crying too. So beautiful this sweet angel on earth. I miss her too. Without sounding religious, I know you will see her again some day, in a different realm.
Beautiful. You are such an amazing person. Thank you so much for sharing that video and your daughter with us, we will cherish her always. So much love for your family.
Soo loved, by soo many people! She is missed beyond words!
Hugs to you today.
Delurking to say that meoskop said exactly what I want to express:
“She is a star – anyone who ever came across your blog could not forget Madeline. She lived so fiercely – in her photos, in videos you posted. I am so sorry, always.”
Your family is beautiful and brave and strong. As always, I am just sorry for your loss.
She’s the most beautiful baby i’ve ever seen. Really. So so sorry for your pain. Love to you.
It’s impossible to not love that perfect little pixie face.
Amanda M.´s last [type] ..Booty Theory
A while ago I stumbled upon your blog, and over a week I read all of the archives. I got so roped in by her amazing smile and gleeful laugh. I felt silly, reading so much and caring so much about someone I never met. When I got to the entry where she passed I sobbed, I lost it and I felt silly for crying for someone I’d never met. I felt angry at the world for doing this to two people who seemed so amazing, I was angry at the world for stealing so much opportunity from this amazing little girl. I hope I never understand how hard this is for you.
But today, I read your entry and watched the video and I lost it all over again. The first song in the tribute “Daughter” was the song I danced with my father to at my wedding in June and Maddie will never have a wedding and it completely isn’t fair.
I hope this comment doesn’t just make you sadder. Maddie touches so many people she’s never met. One day when I have kids I’ll hold them a little closer and squeeze them a little tighter because of her.
Love to you and your family from the East Coast.
Mike & Heather,
You keep Maddie alive, not only for yourselves and Ananabelle but for all of us who have followed your journey. I truly feel as if I know Maddie and I care so much for her and her family.
I think Kerri said it best for everyone…
The video was incredible. Thank you for all you’ve shared.
I wish I could have known her, and yet through your blog I feel I know her, and all of you, like I know my own family. You have amazing daughters, and I know that wherever she is Maddie continues to be with you. I know she loves you and her daddy and her baby sis. She will always watch over you, and one day you will meet again.
Heather,
This video is so touching. I’ve watched it several times since I found your blog. Maddie is absolutely beautiful.
Sending you love and hugs.
Dianne
She looks so sweet even when she cries. I just love this and even though it’s hard to watch, I can’t keep away from that sweet angel face. I can’t imagine your pain. I’m so proud of you and Mike, Heather. So happy you keep her memory going. As long as you do, I’ll be watching. Love you so much. Infinite Hugs. xoxo
I remember that video. In fact, I fell in love with that song and downloaded it to my iPod and every time I hear it, I think of Maddie and my own daughter!
She was such a happy girl and had the biggest smile and the brightest eyes. She couldn’t have asked for better parents!
Thank you for sharing beautiful Maddie with all of us. Beautiful Maddie…beautiful music! Love it! for a beautiful family! XO I love, love the songs that accompany this video too!
Never apologize for the length of that beautiful tribute to your daughter. I sat here and cried. You are wonderful people and parents. Give Annie an extra hug from a stranger in Santa Clarita. Bless your family.
No, thank you for sharing that amazing child with us.
what wonderful memories. She touched (and still touches) so many hearts. thanks for sharing your beautiful girl with us!
Lisa @ Early Morning Run´s last [type] ..5 For Friday
Such radiance and personality, it still doesn’t seem possible to me that she could be gone, but her light burns brightly because you have shared her with the world and I can’t thank you enough for that. I adore her and all of you.
Thank you for sharing your beautiful Maddie Moo with us! Of course I don’t know you personally but, everytime I watch a movie of precious Madeline I am not able to comprehend the fact that she is no longer physically with you. The song “I Could Only Imagine” is one I play everyday to help me think about my little brother that I miss so much. Many times I think of Madeline when I am singing or listening to that song.
Both heart-wrenching and beautiful to watch. Thank you for sharing your video of Madeline.
Sending hugs and strength – I’m so glad you have Annabel to love and hold onto. I can’t even imagine how painful it is to go through what you have. It brings tears to my eyes every time I think about it. My baby boy is my everything, and learning of what you’ve been through makes me cherish him that much more. Take care.
Elizabeth´s last [type] ..Back on the mainland
I love that song! Your Madeline was a precious girl. I cried also watching your video. In such a short time she made such a huge impact.
Beautiful. Crying and smiling as well.
you and mike look so happy and peaceful in those pictures with maddie. I am sorry that you lost her and I am sorry that you lost that absolutely pure, untouched happiness you all had together.
Simply Beautiful.
Kerri said what so many of us feel. I almost couldn’t make it through the video. Maddie is missed by so many. Hugs to you today.
So loved and always remembered. I hear single ladies and see that beautiful smiling girl busting her moves and feel gratitude that you shared such precious events in your family with all of us. I have learned and will continue to learn so many valuable life lessons from Maddie and the entire Spohr clan. I just wish your wisdom had not been so terribly won. Every day I wish Madeline was home with you and Mike and Annabel, and her buddy Rigby and all the people that so love your glorious and golden firstborn daughter.
Kelly´s last [type] ..Im Out
I love her smile! What a beautiful little girl!
So, so beautiful and so, so touching. I love you all and have never even met you. Thank you for sharing everything with us, but I’m so sorry that you have to. Annabel is such a blessed little girl to have you two as her parents and her beautiful big sister as her Guardian Angel to watch over her. I only wish I could allow Madeline to watch over her from here on earth.
Just know that I think of Madeline (and you, Mike, and Annabel) all the time.
I have never seen a happier child than Madeline. She is so loved. Thank you for sharing her life with us.
Crying.
Your daughters are beautiful, Heather and Mike. It’s impossible not to love them. Thank you for sharing them with us.
Nicole´s last [type] ..Relatively Wordless Wednesday
Wow. So beautiful. It’s so great that you captured all those memories in pictures and videos. Her beauty is really angelic. Your love for her shines in your faces. I never noticed this before but when I look at you AND Mike, I see Maddie. It’s amazing.
xoxo
I was having a bad night and watching this movie just gave me so many smiles. Although it makes me sad to think about how miss Maddie is gone, the love that she is has created is clearly abundant.
Thank you for sharing this beautiful tribute. I feel like I now know Maddie. You’re so lucky to have known her and been her parents. I’m lucky to have witnessed her beauty and personality through these memories. Thank you!
I’ve been sitting here, totally still, trying in vain to come up with the perfect words and I find that I can’t – because there are none. There are no perfect words. All I can you is love. Love for you, Mike, Annabel, and Madeline.
And I DO love Madeline. Though I never got the privilege to meet her, through your words I have grown to love her. And I always will.
I’ll never stop saying it – thank you endlessly for sharing your precious daughter with us time and time again.
You know what stands out to me? Both of your girls are SO annimated – I mean they both have such STRONG personalitites!! They both just radiate confidence and beauty at such a young age – which can only be a result of great parenting. When kids feel loved, they flourish. You and Mike are clearly amazing parents. My heart just breaks for you and Mike. My heart soars for Maddie and Annie, who know nothing but love.
Love to all of you, keeping you in my heart today and always.
She was so special. So beautiful, so full of life, so unique. She was here for a brief moment but touched thousands of people and her soul will live on forever. I love you guys so much and on those hard days I hope you tell us so we show you more lovin’. <3
When you first posted this video, I was in tears.
Now, some 514+ days later…I’m still in tears as I watch it.
It’s just such a beautiful tribute.
Maddie, so loved…indeed.
I love her. I never met her, but I really do.
I know this sounds very strange, but sometimes my two year old will make facial expressions that remind me of Maddie. I don’t know how that can be possible. I guess because I’ve seen so many annimated videos of Maddie that I’ve come to know her certain facial expressions, and even if my little one does the slightest thing with her lips or her eyebrows that remind me of something that Maddie would do, I instantly see Maddie in her. It will stop me up short because it’s not expected…and I will remember your Maddie and think about her right there at that second. And I always love on my baby extra at that moment…just extra. A tighter squeeze, extra kisses. In a way, I feel like the “extra” somehow gets sent to Maddie…to let her know how very loved she is by so many others.
Anyway, this video and the post that first accompanied it will always be my favorite posting of yours. The video makes me both laugh (Maddie’s facial expression when she hears Mike’s voice on the phone…so classic) and cry. Thank you for sharing this with us.
katrina´s last [type] ..Piano Lessons
She is absolutely beautifully perfect. It almost seems unreal. I am just really mad actually that she is not here. Why? It almost makes me physically ill just trying to grasp that this happens to people. I really have the greatest sympathy for your family. I’m thankful that you have your little Annabel but so wish (as you do) that her big sister were here.
Thanks for sharing this video again.
Maddie is what I have always called a Sparkle Person. I have known less than a handful of these people in my life, but they just have that extra something about them that draws everyone in their surrounding in, and warms their hearts, and makes them smile just by being there, and inspires them to be better in life. I do not know why people like Maddie are taken so soon from this world, but I do know that she is a Sparkle Person, and she shimmers in every video and every picture I have ever seen of her. Perhaps her light is more brilliant because the world was only going to be allowed to share it for a sliver of time.
You can place a star a million miles away, but the light will shine for millions of years after it has been gone.
I laughed and cried through this whole video. Almost every picture and video I remembered. And in each one (except one) she was smiling, happy, and beautiful.
thank you so much for sharing this sacred part of your life. she is so beautiful.
Thank you for sharing this video Heather and Mike. She is so absolutely beautiful. Behind my tears all I could think about is how happy she truly was. You should be so proud. Her Mommy and Daddy made her so happy.
I didn’t realize I could miss someone I never met until Maddie. I so wish she was here with you.
Sending you lots of hugs.
Jocelyn in the STL
She is so beautiful, and missed by everyone. This had tears rolling down my face. You are two amazing parents. Thank you for sharing her with everyone….hugs from NY.
Nichol´s last [type] ..Labor Day Sales Events!
I could feel Maddie’s spirit come through from the pictures and video. Her smile is contagious and beautiful. She is just a little doll. Thank you for sharing her with me. I hope it brings comfort to your heart that she has made many people’s heart smile today.
~Ashley
I love the video more each time I watch it. Because of Maddie I am a better person. I can’t wait to get to heaven to meet this perfect angel….
What a beautiful tribute to such a beautiful girl!
Thank you for sharing, that was so beautiful!
So, so beautiful. I cried then and I cry now. She has a beautiful soul.
Oh sweet baby.
My heart goes out to you mom and dad and the rest of the family.
*hugs*
What a beautiful spirit your daughter has. So beautiful. So spirited.
You are in my prayers.
JamericanSpice´s last [type] ..Healthy Moms Online – Derma e Natural Skin Care products – Giveaway-Sale-Discounts
She is so loved, and not forgotten. I think about Maddie often, even though I’ve never met her. I come to your blog to read about your cute little family but also to remember your sweet little girl.
she was such an extraordinary child. truly the whole world in her eyes.
I am a stranger to your family but i would do anything to bring her back to you. Anything. I wish i could.
Thank you for sharing her with all of us. I am just one of the many who have been touched by this little girl they never met.
Hugs and love to your family oxo
my heart hurts watching this video from all the love and all the pain..
life just isnt fair – i want to scream but know that wont even help
what a truly beautiful family you are and what a beautiful little girl Maddie is
Thank you so much for sharing something so private, precious and beautiful. My heart aches for you always. Madeline is so loved by so many.
This is the 3rd time I’ve tried to watch this video and I lose it in the same place every time and I can’t go on. Barely a minute in when the video of her sweet little baby tears come on the screen. She seems so real when I watch it that I cannot believe she isn’t still here. Most of all I can’t believe someone I’ve never met has touched my life in such a way.
I have only known precious Maddie through your blog. Thank you for inviting us into your life and sharing your precious girl with us. Maddie was so very dear and what made her extra special was her zest for life and her incredible good nature despite difficulties with her health. So cheerful and bright, she was.
I hold you in my heart every day.
She is so unbelievably beautiful, and SO SO missed.
Maddie is such a beautiful child who left a footprint on so many hearts…Thank you for sharing her with us. XXOO
What a special, beautiful, perfect baby girl. Thank you for sharing her with us.
Heather, I can’t even begin to imagine how much you must miss your Maddie. What I can tell you is that watching this video reminds me to simply love my boys. My youngest is 4.5 and very likely has Autism. Two doctors have already told us he does, but we just took him to Children’s National and they are running some tests. Even though I love him more than words can describe, there are many days that I struggle with him, but this video makes me feel guilty for doing that. I needed to be reminded that he is here with me and I need to be glad for that. Thank you, Heather (and Maddie).
Candi´s last [type] ..Menu Plan Monday
Oh god, Heather. It’s just not fair. Yeah, I’d say you have every right to be f*&%ing angry at the world about losing her. Thank you for sharing your precious Maddie with us.
I never knew Maddie, but I sure do miss her. She is so beautiful, thank you for sharing her with us.
Kim Adams´s last [type] ..Cute as a Button- Baby A
How could you not love that baby? I never met Maddie or your family and I send my love to you all…
I have watched this video a few times now and every time I see it I cry for you.
I am sending a ton of love your way and your family is in my thoughts.
Beautiful. Madeline will ALWAYS be loved by many! <3
all i can see through your daughters beautiful eyes is my own, and I wonder how I can sit here at work, and stay one more second away from her. (every day I work towards staying at home at least part time with them.) thank you for this video as it helps me to remember to be grateful for every minute. Thank you Madeline.
Thank you Heather and Mike for uploading this video…
I understand how you say it makes you smile and sad at the same time when watching this video. My brother passed away exactly 9 weeks ago. We made a tribute video for his funeral, and when I really miss him, that’s what I watch. And you laugh at the funny bits, but then want to cry because you miss spending time with him.
I’m SOOOOO glad your daughter absolutely loved to smile – what a gorgeous smile that was!
May GOD continue to carry you, Mike and Annie for the rest of your lives.
God Bless xxx
Ronel Swart´s last [type] ..The Miracle called Carlien
I have to tell you I’ve tried watching this numerous times, but never made it all the way through (too many tears), but i was looking for a way to entertain my almost 8 month old Josie, so I turned on this video, this time I forced myself to get all the way through, and what a precious little girl miss Maddy is. So very expressive! The thing I found very interesting is, that anytime Josie saw a picture with Mike and Maddy, Josie would start to cry, anytime she saw a sad face on Maddy, she would cry, and almost immediately start smiling when the pictures were of smiles. It’s kindof like she knew, is it possible for our understanding of emotions to develop at such a young age? I think Josie was missing her daddy too, so maybe the Mike thing was just of her need to be cuddled by her pappa. Just wanted to say thanks for sharing this video, and hugs to your whole family
Amber