The Evolution Of Laughter

by Heather on May 29, 2009

in the famous Madeline

On Maddie’s last night, I sat in a chair next to her bed. The PICU didn’t allow beds for the parents to sleep in. Yeah, I know, we’ll just all take a moment to acknowledge how stupid that is and then move on…..OK. The PICU staff was very nice, and offered to bring over a TV/VCR so I could play videos to entertain Maddie. Their video stock was vast, and I picked a couple of my favorites. First we watched “The Wizard of Oz.” I sang along to all the songs. Every now and then she’d open her eyes to look at me, and then the TV screen. After TWOO was over, I popped in “Mary Poppins.” I sang along with every song in that movie as well, but when the song “I Love To Laugh” came on, I added a little commentary.

“Maddie Moo, this song could totally be about you, me, and Daddy. We all love to laugh. All we do is laugh every day!”

Maddie had the BEST laugh. It started as giggles and hiccups, and evolved into full-fledged laughter. It was impossible to be in the presence of her laughter and not, in turn, laugh yourself.


if you can’t see the video above, click here

Even when I am in my most down moments, her laugh is music to my ears.

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    { 154 comments }

    1 Anne May 29, 2009 at 1:32 am

    Her laugh is contagious!

    Anne’s last blog post..A New Experience

    2 Lauren May 29, 2009 at 1:36 am

    That’s contagious joy, right there. Wow.

    Lauren’s last blog post..Laugh.

    3 Noelle May 29, 2009 at 1:37 am

    How amazing that you were able to share your childhood favorites with Maddie. And that laugh…so adorable and contagious. Her happiness is so obvious, and she is so, so loved.

    4 In Due Time May 29, 2009 at 1:37 am

    (((((Heather & Mike)))))))

    Love her laugh, too. Sitting here with a smile on my face and a tear in my eye. I think about y’all every day.

    In Due Time’s last blog post..Bed Rest

    5 MazingAmy May 29, 2009 at 1:41 am

    Awww you are so right! It is impossible not to smile and laugh at Maddie’s beautiful smile and laugh. :)

    MazingAmy’s last blog post..crazy how it feels tonight…

    6 Krissa May 29, 2009 at 1:57 am

    Precious! :)

    7 Magda May 29, 2009 at 1:58 am

    Her laughter is truly contagious and put’s a huge smile on my face every time I hear it. Please continue to share Maddie with us, love you all an thinking about you everyday!

    8 amanda May 29, 2009 at 2:11 am

    There is nothing better than a child’s laugh – that seems sappy to say but it’s true -it’s never sarcastic or cynical (it seems that so many times when adults – ok, me – laugh, it’s with an edge to it) – but children laugh with true joy. I love my daughter’s laugh too – sometimes she laughs so hard she starts burping – which just makes her laugh more. Sweet Maddie – thank you for sharing her with us again.

    xo from CT,
    Amanda

    amanda’s last blog post..low

    9 Brittanie May 29, 2009 at 2:13 am

    Thank you for sharing your beautiful girl with us. I feel so blessed to have gotten to know Maddie and you and Mike through your pictures, videos, and incredible words. We may never meet, but not a day goes by that I do not think of all of you. You are always in my heart, I take your story and your strength everywhere I go. There truly are not enough words to describe what an incredible kiddo Maddie is and what an amazing person you are.

    Her laughter is truly contagious and unique and so genuinely happy and Maddie! She is amazing. <3

    10 Beret May 29, 2009 at 2:48 am

    What a nice way to wake up on a Friday! Maddie’s laugh will have me in a good mood all day.

    11 jen May 29, 2009 at 3:07 am

    Hands down – best laugh ever! I love that her laugh turns into little shrieks of joy..its almost like she just cant contain herself.

    Thinking of you & Mike..

    jen’s last blog post..25 things..

    12 Lynn from For Love or Funny May 29, 2009 at 3:18 am

    Little Maddie Moo’s laugh – you must miss it so much.

    Sending hugs.

    Lynn from For Love or Funny’s last blog post..Under surveillance

    13 wn May 29, 2009 at 3:28 am

    I echo that it was a GREAT way to wake up this morning!

    wn’s last blog post..frogs and snails

    14 Kelly May 29, 2009 at 3:48 am

    She is so insanely beautiful… I’m a little biased about my own daughter’s laughter – but Maddie definitely has the second best laughter EVER!

    Love and hugs to you all…

    Kelly’s last blog post..Daddys are so comfortable!

    15 Charlane May 29, 2009 at 3:55 am

    How could you be anything but happy listening to her sweet baby laugh! That was adoreable!

    Charlane’s last blog post..Off the Charts

    16 leena May 29, 2009 at 4:12 am

    every time i see her I can’t get over how beautiful she is. Thanks for sharing this video- it made my day!

    17 Nicole May 29, 2009 at 4:27 am

    Its true…I am laughing through my tears. What a sweet little thing!

    18 Casey May 29, 2009 at 4:31 am

    It really is a gift, what you come here to share with all of us. She is so beautiful.

    I’ve said before that there is something so throaty and unrestrained about a baby’s laughter, it is impossible not to be moved to at least grin like a fool when you hear it. Maddie’s laughter is just a joy to watch and listen to. Her face lights up so perfectly.

    Thank you.

    Casey’s last blog post..Not another ice cream pun to start a post

    19 Christine May 29, 2009 at 4:38 am

    Two of my favorites too. Her laugh is awesome. She was and continues to be a joy.

    Christine’s last blog post..I don’t like Mondays

    20 Ann May 29, 2009 at 4:42 am

    Thank you for sharing Maddie’s laughter with us. What a poignant and delightful video. I love how she fit into the crook of Mike’s arm. Your posts are so moving, Heather, I’m sure sales in concealer are skyrocketing.

    21 Leah May 29, 2009 at 4:46 am

    I have been reading your blog since somewhere in the middle of April. I can’t remember where I exactly found it from but I remember seeing Maddie’s pic on that March of Dimes badge and couldn’t help clicking on it. I don’t think I even read the words March of Dimes or realized what it was for – I was so attracted to her beautiful face, my hand clicked that mouse button before I even thought about it.

    I’ve now watched many of your videos and looked at Maddie’s pictures over and over. One thing that strikes me is that she carried so much joy with her. It is wonderful and heartwarming to see her smile and hear her laugh.

    Thank you for sharing this with all of us. I have no idea what it must take to open your life up to strangers here, but I am glad that you do. In times of my own profound grief, I was never able to open myself up to anyone like you and Mike have done.

    And to add my 2 cents to that one hurtful comment yesterday – I would seriously throw punk ass down for you!

    22 Tricia (irishsamom) May 29, 2009 at 4:48 am

    Oh Heather, how could you not smile (or laugh out loud) when you hear that purely infectious giggle followed by that gorgeous laugh. The passion that your precious girl lived with should be a lesson to us all, to take the time out to laugh and have fun with life. I can only imagine she learned so much of that from her parents. I am thinking of you every day and holding you and Mike and your gorgeous girl in my heart. My children now have an extra angel to pray for and talk about. Maddie still spreads her joy to all of us strangers/friends (as Matt would say) and she infiltrates our lives in such a beautiful way. I hope that you can have some peace today.
    Tricia xoxox

    Tricia (irishsamom)’s last blog post..Taking the Road Less Travelled

    23 DesignHER Momma May 29, 2009 at 4:58 am

    Heather -
    These videos are awesome! I admit that I don’t have too many videos of my girls and you have really inspired me to take more. These are preserved memories that you will always have. Again, thanks for sharing your life with all of us.

    Love you and miss you!
    Emily

    DesignHER Momma’s last blog post..I Scoff in the Face of Family Photos

    24 Susan D. May 29, 2009 at 5:07 am

    That is a wonderul laugh. Like someone else said, I laughed and got a tear at the same time. Sending you hugs.

    Susan D.’s last blog post..Dreadmill

    25 Ali May 29, 2009 at 5:13 am

    What a gift it is to have all these videos of her! I’m glad you take comfort from tham! What a fun little girl she was!

    Ali’s last blog post..Frazzled.

    26 Colleen May 29, 2009 at 5:18 am

    I never thought I could laugh and cry at the same time. Thank you so much for sharing Maddie with us.

    Colleen’s last blog post..The Devil doesn’t always wear Prada

    27 Molly May 29, 2009 at 5:25 am

    She is such a delightful child. Even though I never met her, I miss her every day.

    28 Alexandra May 29, 2009 at 5:35 am

    It’s helping me process her passing, with you telling bits and pieces , here and there. I couldn’t take all the details , if you gave them to us all at once. Thank you, for the pace, and for the slow sharing. It takes a long time to understand and walk through what happened to Maddie. I’m still in shock. I can’t even begin to imagine the mental place you are in…taking this apart and trying to see it’s real.

    29 Summer May 29, 2009 at 5:37 am

    The laughter of a baby, is there any more beautiful sound?

    Summer’s last blog post..Wearing my heart on my sleeve

    30 Amanda May 29, 2009 at 5:40 am

    To take Molly’s words:

    “Even though I never met her, I miss her every day.”

    thank you for letting us remember (and grieve) with you.

    31 Barbara Howard May 29, 2009 at 5:40 am

    Maddie is precious. Thank you for sharing her laughter!

    32 Becky May 29, 2009 at 5:41 am

    This is Alex’s favorite Maddie video. And I love it too.

    Oh Heather, I miss her with you. I wish she were laughing here.

    Becky’s last blog post..Tell Me It’s Just A Bad Case Of Lovin’ You.

    33 AMomTwoBoys May 29, 2009 at 5:44 am

    OH, I love this video.

    It was a great way to start my day. My very early day.

    xoxo

    AMomTwoBoys’s last blog post..Pirates!

    34 moosh in indy. May 29, 2009 at 5:44 am

    Look who learned how to use iMovie.
    She truly was the HAPPIEST baby I have ever EVER met.

    moosh in indy.’s last blog post..namecalling.

    35 kristen May 29, 2009 at 5:46 am

    it is a rainy, dreary day in connecticut…but it suddenly just got a whole lot brighter with your words and video of maddie. there she goes again…proving that a little laughter can spread a whole lot of joy in this world. maddie is a most wise teacher.

    i’ve said it before and i’ll say it again — you are an amazing, inspiring mother. what a beautiful way to spend maddie’s last night…so tender.

    xxoo.
    kristen

    36 Vicky May 29, 2009 at 5:48 am

    So sweet.

    37 Virginia May 29, 2009 at 5:51 am

    Oh Heather, her laughter’s infectious! Thank you for sharing.

    38 Candice May 29, 2009 at 5:55 am

    What an amazing laugh! You’re right, so contagious. Every time I see a pic or video of her, I just can’t believe how gorgeous she is.

    Candice’s last blog post..That Just Ain’t Right!

    39 Marie May 29, 2009 at 5:56 am

    How blessed you are to have all those videos. Most people including me have only pictures. It’s so nice that you are able to play them whenever you want and listen to her.

    Bless your day

    Hugs,
    Marie

    40 Suzanne May 29, 2009 at 5:57 am

    The PICU details knock the wind out of me. And the video makes me smile. What a lovely baby girl — in every possible way. Madeline’s laughter is music.

    41 @heartmychloe May 29, 2009 at 6:02 am

    I played this for the kids at work today (2,3,&6yo) and when it was over, they all yelled “play it again!” over and over and over.

    So we did.

    @heartmychloe’s last blog post..Wordless Wednesday

    42 Patty May 29, 2009 at 6:02 am

    You know what Heather? It is so awesome that you have all of this video and all of the photos you have of this precious angel! So many of us (ok, maybe only me?) don’t pull out the camcorder or camera nearly enough (1 time per year is DEFINITELY NOT enough!) and don’t get to capture memories like this. I guess what I am trying to say is that it is just wonderful that you can still enjoy her laughter. I do hope that you are able to find peace in these moments. She was, is, always will be an amazing and sweet angel. You have been blessed, although only for a short time. It still doesn’t make any sense, I don’t think it will, but in her short little life she made such an impact on so many lives and continues to. I think of this precious baby all of the time as well as yourself and Mike! There are no words to express my sadness over your loss of Madeline. Love from your stranger friend in Arizona!

    Patty’s last blog post..It has begun!

    43 Lacy Lewis May 29, 2009 at 6:06 am

    Thanks so much for sharing that video. Maddie always brings a smile to my face and a tug at my heart. I know you don’t know me, but your strength and courage has affected me in so many ways. I’ve been following your journey through your blog and think of you constantly. There is a song by Sarah McLaughlin callled Angel that makes me think of Maddie whenever I hear it (it’s on my IPOD). It might bring you some comfort. It’s a beautiful song!
    You have touched so many lives…….I wish you peace.

    44 Connie @ Young and Relentless May 29, 2009 at 6:16 am

    Baby laughter is the best….but she takes the cake!

    Connie @ Young and Relentless’s last blog post..Believe…and You’ll See

    45 Erica May 29, 2009 at 6:21 am

    Dear Heather,
    Another stranger here de-lurking to tell you what an amazing little girl your Maddie is and what amazing people you and Mike are. I’ve only been reading you recently but now check in on you every day. I think of you throughout my day and wonder how you are doing. Your beautiful Maddie is also in my thoughts every day.
    Your posts bring tears to my eyes. I just wanted you to know that another stranger is thinking of you and Mike, this one from a long way from you guys over in Luxembourg (near Germany).
    As so many others have already said, you and Mike are such wonderful parents to Maddie, a real inspiration to us all.
    Your videos of your amazing little girl are just so precious. Each and every one brings tears to my eyes. This one is just wonderful, through the tears you can’t help laughing along with that infectious laugh.
    Heather and Mike, there are so many people thinking of you guys.
    I think of you every day.
    Love from another stranger friend, Erica in Luxembourg

    46 Laura May 29, 2009 at 6:25 am

    That is the most beautiful sound in the world! Maddie’s sense of fun and laughter came from you! You still have it, and you have it to give … thanks for sharing it today!

    47 bessie.viola May 29, 2009 at 6:35 am

    There is absolutely nothing better than baby giggles. I’m so glad that you have Maddie’s saved to keep on enjoying – truly contagious!!

    bessie.viola’s last blog post..night-night

    48 Miss Grace May 29, 2009 at 6:46 am

    She had a lovely laugh.

    49 Lisa May 29, 2009 at 6:52 am

    There is just something so sweet, adorable and contagious about baby laughter. I’m glad you have those videos to go back to.

    Maya just laughed along with her the entire time I had the video playing.

    Lisa’s last blog post..Urinary Tract Infections in Children

    50 Andrea May 29, 2009 at 6:54 am

    I’m smiling and crying at the same time.

    51 Jennifer May 29, 2009 at 7:06 am

    Thanks for that video! Whata great laugh and smile!

    I was watching it w/ my 2 yr. old and she said “I love that baby!”

    Jennifer’s last blog post..Little Miss Diva

    52 Sareh May 29, 2009 at 7:11 am

    She is precious and what a great laugh!

    Sareh’s last blog post.."I fought the law and the law won"

    53 Susan May 29, 2009 at 7:14 am

    Oh Heather – music to your ears. She is so happy in these videos. She simply loved everything!!! I agree with some above, what a good way to start the today listening to that laughter. You can’t help but smile.

    54 Trish May 29, 2009 at 7:22 am

    She’s got a fabulous laugh. Sweet, sweet girl. I’m so glad you took lots of pictures and videos of her.

    Trish’s last blog post..Chuck E Cheese is not …

    55 Marijke May 29, 2009 at 7:42 am

    Heather – what a wonderful sound. No matter how shitty of a day I have at work, the sound of my little boy’s laughter makes it all better. I wish I had the forethought to get it on video… I think I will now.

    Hang in there – it’s rough, but you have some amazing memories of your beautiful Maddie. I’m so glad that you share them with all of us!

    Marijke’s last blog post..Parent of the Year… NOT ME

    56 Amanda May 29, 2009 at 7:42 am

    I love to listen to Maddie laugh – please don’t stop posting your videos. I’m glad that Maddie’s laugh brightens even your darkest times

    57 Jamie May 29, 2009 at 7:44 am

    And once again I look bi-polar as I laugh and cry at the same damn time. She’s so beautiful, Heather. But you know that.

    Jamie’s last blog post..Wordless Wednesday

    58 Jill May 29, 2009 at 7:45 am

    I love baby giggles! Sweetest sound ever.

    Jill’s last blog post..Friday Funday

    59 nic @mybottlesup May 29, 2009 at 7:51 am

    in the spirit of sharing laughs, jackson asked that i share one of his own giggle videos to keep you going today…

    http://www.mybottlesup.com/a-childs-laughter

    thinking of you always…

    nic @mybottlesup’s last blog post..can’t do it

    60 Just Jiff May 29, 2009 at 7:55 am

    I’m with the others who said they are laughing and crying at the same time.

    She was so beautiful, sweet, and happy.

    Just Jiff’s last blog post..Rude people in traffic.

    61 Katrina May 29, 2009 at 7:57 am

    Precious! and priceless!

    Thanks so much for sharing this video –
    for sharing your Maddie Moo with us.

    Katrina’s last blog post..10 months old today

    62 Jana May 29, 2009 at 8:02 am

    She is so beautiful. Her eyes are amazing! And her laughter…so pure! I find myself coming back everyday, and even though I don’t know you or Madeline, her was a life worth celebrating. And even though you are mourning too, you also are celebrating your daughter and who she was. In fact, you are so in tune to who she was. Your post about her and the glasses on the little boy cracked me up! You are a great mom, and even though your time with her was short, you really made the most of it. Thanks for sharing!

    63 perksofbeingme May 29, 2009 at 8:08 am

    This is just a great start to my day. I’m in love with Maddie Moo’s laugh. She is my hero.

    perksofbeingme’s last blog post..Love in the Time of Lamictal

    64 Lady Lemon May 29, 2009 at 8:10 am

    How wonderful that you have these videos to cherish forever. You were so wise to take so many.

    Hugs and shared tears from Florida. That laugh is musical.

    Lady Lemon’s last blog post..I Don’t Want to Set the World on Fire

    65 tara May 29, 2009 at 8:11 am

    her laugh is the perfect way to start my day. it is so inspiring the way you have celebrated her life every day, since she was born. you are so strong, heather, even when you don’t feel it. i am thinking of you, mike and beautiful maddie moo every day.

    66 Amazing Greis May 29, 2009 at 8:13 am

    What a great video. It definitely REALLY shows just what a happy baby Maddie was. Her laughter has brightened my day. Thank you!

    XOXO

    Amazing Greis’s last blog post..Feelings, sometimes I wish they would #suckit…

    67 sherry pyle May 29, 2009 at 8:13 am

    Thank you for sharing your private time and thoughts with us.
    Maddie had such a beautiful smile and her laughter will ring in your heart forever.
    These little moments are footprints in your heart she left you.
    I know these days are hard. I cry with you over her loss.
    I am so sorry for the pain and hurt.
    Someday in Heaven I’ll meet your Maddie.
    I often type sentences and delete them.
    Just know I care, and my heart is with you.
    You are so brave to share her.
    Thank you.
    You are a great Mom. Maddie knew how much you loved her.
    I’m glad you got so new medical info that helps you to understand your experience.
    Take care, so many people care about you.

    68 Charmed May 29, 2009 at 8:22 am

    What a very happy baby!

    Charmed’s last blog post..Remind me to wear pants…

    69 anymommy May 29, 2009 at 8:31 am

    She’s a gift.

    anymommy’s last blog post..Voices in My Head

    70 Courtney May 29, 2009 at 8:33 am

    I have to agree that is the most fabulous laugh and very contagious!
    Courtney in New York

    Courtney’s last blog post..A Question for you?

    71 Michelle Pixie May 29, 2009 at 8:40 am

    Baby giggles is the most beautiful sound ever!!!

    Michelle Pixie’s last blog post..Birthday Parties

    72 Jodee May 29, 2009 at 8:46 am

    I was watching and this an my own Kyboo came and crawled on my lap to watch and kept pointing to Maddie laughing… She loved it. Her laugh was infectious and she was very Happy!

    BIG BIG ((hugs Hugs))) to you and Mike.

    Jodee’s last blog post..Atlanta

    73 Kathryn May 29, 2009 at 9:00 am

    I love baby laughs too and Maddie had a wonderful one for sure! Her spirit must have glided over this way towards me for a bit because it was supposed to be rainy and yucky today, but so far it’s been beautiful and sunny…just like your Maddie.

    Kathryn’s last blog post..May is a lovely month in Germany

    74 Debby May 29, 2009 at 9:06 am

    So precious, what a giggle. It got the attention of my puppy Skye, turning her head from side to side listening to dear Maddie. Thank you for sharing this with us.
    It cannot be easy watching the videos you have, I pray they can give you comfort.

    Debby’s last blog post..SHE LOVES ME, SHE LOVES ME NOT

    75 missy May 29, 2009 at 9:19 am

    Maddie will always be a ray of sunshine even on the darkest of days.

    76 Molly May 29, 2009 at 9:19 am

    Thank you for sharing your special times. Maddie was a beautiful, wonderful little girl. I think about you all alot. You are alot stronger than you even realize.

    77 sam {temptingmama} May 29, 2009 at 9:20 am

    I haven’t watched it because I’m at work, but I just wanted to tell you that I love you all.

    sam {temptingmama}’s last blog post..Time to Lighten The Mood…And Your Hair… Down There

    78 Jennifer May 29, 2009 at 9:21 am

    Heather, I’m not sure why I HAVE to check your blog everyday, but I do. Every single day, I check in to hear your stories about your sweet little girl. I think about Maddie every day and numerous times a day. Not only is her laugh contagious, but everything about her is contagious. I miss her and I didn’t even know her. I know this must sound soo strange coming from a complete stranger….it’s even weird to me how much your daughter has touched my life, and changed it. I have 3 children of my own and everyday I grab them and hug them a little tighter and think of Maddie. I cannot even imagine the pain you are going through, but please know this, your daughter has touched sooo many lives. I guarantee you, she will NEVER be forgotten. I know that I can’t offer you any words of wisdom…just know that hundreds of people across this world are thinking of you and your family during all of this. My heart goes out to all of you. God Bless you Madeline Alice.

    79 Vicky May 29, 2009 at 9:24 am

    I’ve already been here once today and came back just to hear her sweet laughter.

    It is so obvious how much you and Mike loved Madeline (and still do). She was so lucky to have loving parents like you.

    Hoping for a peaceful weekend for you and your family.

    80 Amy May 29, 2009 at 9:24 am

    Such a beautiful video!

    Amy’s last blog post..We have MRSA

    81 catherine lucas May 29, 2009 at 9:26 am

    I wonder how many times my heart can be broken in watching this little girl? Still counting…

    catherine lucas’s last blog post..Float on a boat

    82 Sandra May 29, 2009 at 9:35 am

    Her laugh is so beautiful and her eyes are so bright.

    Sandra’s last blog post..Things the kids say

    83 Elaina May 29, 2009 at 9:35 am

    Thanks for sharing the video. It put a smile on my face. Such a wonderful laugh!

    84 JustAMom May 29, 2009 at 9:41 am

    God she is awesome.

    85 Kerry May 29, 2009 at 9:47 am

    I found my way here via Matt Logelin’s blog. Maddie was so lucky to have such a fun family and so much love. Please know that her gorgeous laughter has made its way up to Vancouver Island.

    86 Lee May 29, 2009 at 10:06 am

    You sharing that video and that laughter and your precious daughter with us is such a gift to me today. Thank you.

    Lee’s last blog post..It’s the little things you gotta watch out for

    87 cheri May 29, 2009 at 10:11 am

    thank you for reminding me to embrace and enjoy the simple things in life. maddie’s laughter is infectious…peace to you and mike.

    88 Laura May 29, 2009 at 10:56 am

    Her smile and laughter are beyond precious! I LOVE this little girl! What a wonderful Mommy you are to share her with us all….

    xoxoxoxoxo

    89 Laura May 29, 2009 at 11:03 am

    I know I just wrote but I wanted to tell you that I am a teacher and my students caught me on your blog during recess. I played the video of your beautiful Maddie laughing for them. They all laughed right along with her and said how beautiful she is. Her laugh is truly infectious and brought joy to many fifth graders today!

    Hugs to you, Heather and Mike!

    90 Jenny May 29, 2009 at 11:03 am

    Music to my ears too. What a beautiful sound her laughter is, I’m so glad that you at least have the evolution of her sweetness on video and listen to it whenever you need to.

    Jenny’s last blog post..Nail Clipping at the Hermans

    91 Leslie May 29, 2009 at 11:26 am

    I love that laugh. I love that girl.

    92 saarah wilson May 29, 2009 at 11:43 am

    Its so amazing that you can share so much of your baby girl with us. I dont think I would have the strength to open up as much as you both have. I look forward to your posts and pray for you each and every night.

    93 Lillian May 29, 2009 at 11:43 am

    here laughter is music…thank you for sharing this video.

    Lillian’s last blog post..treasures from the beach

    94 Andrea's Sweet Life May 29, 2009 at 11:51 am

    Her laugh…. OH, her laugh. What a beautiful sound. xoxo

    Andrea’s Sweet Life’s last blog post..The Little Guy

    95 Erin May 29, 2009 at 12:15 pm

    I love her laugh, her smile and bright eyes! What a beautiful sound…
    I am new to posting comments and following her story, but what a beautiful little girl…you are in my thoughts daily! xoxo

    96 denise May 29, 2009 at 12:20 pm

    Heather -

    What an amazing gift you share with us everyday. I say this with every ounce of sincerity – You are my hero. I would NEVER handle a situation so devastating with such grace.

    In my eyes, you honor your baby with your words and actions.

    Another comment said it best: “I never met her but I miss her everyday”. You share the joy of Maddie’s life, and we smile; you share the devastation of her passing, and we cry.

    I will always be here to listen – to both happy and sad. ALWAYS.

    Thank you for sharing your gifts. (((((BIG HUGS))))

    (I always feel like I’m rambling when I comment to you, am I rambling, ’cause I feel like I am, sorry, I’ve just got so much flying around my teeny brain that sometime it all comes out in little pieces, know what I mean, sitting here crying and wanting to say something profound but I just end up sounding like i’m rambling, i’m getting old)

    97 maggie, dammit May 29, 2009 at 12:30 pm

    Oh, hon. What a sweet, sweet sound.

    maggie, dammit’s last blog post..Girl.

    98 Glenda May 29, 2009 at 12:39 pm

    Thanks for sharing! Amazing video! Love the giggles! Music to our ears! XO

    99 Connie May 29, 2009 at 1:11 pm

    Such sweet laughter – she reminds me of a little sprite. Thanks for sharing her.

    ((((HUGS))))

    Connie

    Connie’s last blog post..Purex and Kiva help YOU Change Lives!

    100 Insta-Mom May 29, 2009 at 1:23 pm

    I never knew anything could make my heart hurt so much while also making me feel such unabashed joy.

    Insta-Mom’s last blog post..The first test I’m glad I failed

    101 Gillian May 29, 2009 at 1:33 pm

    What a beautiful way for me to waste time at work! Thank you for sharing her giggle. It gave me a bittersweet smile today.

    Gillian’s last blog post..Likeness

    102 Amy May 29, 2009 at 1:37 pm

    Pure joy! I was happy to watch that video… I miss her for you.

    103 Karen May 29, 2009 at 1:37 pm

    Her laugh is beautiful. It’s brought tears to my eyes.

    104 Gina May 29, 2009 at 1:41 pm

    Oh, what a sweet laugh. :) There is nothing sweeter than a babies giggles. I agree it made me laugh and cry…..
    ((Hugs to you and Mike))

    105 Miss E May 29, 2009 at 2:22 pm

    Her laugh is the best. So glad you have those memories. Thinking of you. xoxo

    ((Hugs from AZ))

    Miss E’s last blog post..Operation: Surprise Party…Success!

    106 Bec May 29, 2009 at 2:35 pm

    I always love your Friday posts. It’s such a lovely way to remember Maddie.

    Bec’s last blog post..Photo manipulation

    107 Ginger May 29, 2009 at 3:00 pm

    Wonderful!

    Ginger’s last blog post..Haiku Friday: the second

    108 Ginger May 29, 2009 at 3:06 pm

    I was reading your blog the other day and my daughter Emily came past. She saw a picture of Maddie and asked who she was. I told her that she was a very special little girl from California, and that I was reading her mommy’s blog. She paused, looked at it again, and said, “I don’t know how anyone in the world could look at her picture and not smile all over. She must have great parents, ’cause she looks like a REALLY happy baby.” I hadn’t told Em that Maddie had passed away…..so I just sat there and told her how right she was. I can’t wait to share the video of Maddie’s laughter with her. Thank you for sharing with us. We’re praying for all of you.

    109 Francesca May 29, 2009 at 3:13 pm

    such a beautiful sound

    110 Alexandra :)(? May 29, 2009 at 3:55 pm

    A baby’s laughter is the most precious sound in the world.

    111 chatty cricket May 29, 2009 at 4:54 pm

    I once thought that the most charming and hilarious of all of the laughs was the seriously dorky Nerd Laugh I now revise my opinion- Maddie’s laugh is unbelievable! Such a HUGE INFECTIOUS laugh out of such a tiny peanut of a lady.

    Heather, thank you so much for sharing Maddie with the rest of us.

    chatty cricket’s last blog post..I don’t mean to BRAG, but…(it’s a giveaway!)

    112 Michelle S May 29, 2009 at 5:22 pm

    Hi, Heather.

    I’m just another person you’ve never met, but thinks (and prays) for your family often. Your daughter has found a place in my heart forever. She will never be forgotten.

    ~Michelle from Cincinnati, Ohio
    micheller@cinci.rr.com

    113 Miss Behavin May 29, 2009 at 6:02 pm

    Such precious keepsakes you have, Heather. I started watching that video with a smile and ended up bawling my eyes out.

    Miss Behavin’s last blog post..I’m Spreading the Disease of Vulgarity

    114 Kristine May 29, 2009 at 6:18 pm

    So special, so beautiful!

    Kristine’s last blog post..It’s the little things

    115 Ari May 29, 2009 at 6:55 pm

    Such a great laugh… how could I not smile along with her?

    Ari’s last blog post..Kids these days…

    116 S. Renfrow May 29, 2009 at 7:21 pm

    Yep…the sweetest little laugh! Hands down. I’m sooo glad that listening to her precious giggles can make you smile. God knows you deserve those moments, even if they’re few and far between.

    Thank you so very much for sharing her with us all. You are simply amazing.

    117 Sally Moon May 29, 2009 at 7:30 pm

    Do you , Heather , hear that laughter as you look at the stars?( Little Prince ) I will now hear Maddie’s laughter as I look at the stars from my Catskill mountain home in NY. Thank you. XXOO Sally

    Sally Moon’s last blog post..Sunday in the Garden

    118 Ana May 29, 2009 at 7:53 pm

    Beautiful laughter! And those laughing, dancing eyes!! She is such a treasure.

    119 Audrey May 29, 2009 at 7:57 pm

    Her laugh, her smile – she is a beautiful child! What a blessing to have the videos so you can ALWAYS hear the laughter. Hugs.

    120 Karla May 29, 2009 at 8:35 pm

    A wonderful, beautiful laugh…
    I come to your blog every day because you are so real…so honest. I come to your blog to cry (most days), smile, and today…laugh along with your beautiful daughter.
    A few days ago, you talked about crying at things that shouldn’t make you cry, but not at things that should. I can relate to that. I have had tons of loss in my life…a nephew, a brother, and a sister…I found myself not crying for a long time…horrible things would happen around me that should have made me cry, but I didn’t…that was until I found your blog. Maddie’s story made me cry…once again…when I should. Grief is weird.

    Karla’s last blog post..Just a Little Structure Please

    121 Jenn May 29, 2009 at 9:28 pm

    Dear Heather & Mike,

    As I sit here listening & watching Maddie laugh, I find myself crying and laughing at the same time. How I adore her…this luminous little bundle of joy!!! I adore her and the funny thing is, I’ve never ever got the honour of meeting her…or you for that matter. Maddie continues makes this world a better place. Thank you for sharing her with us….she will never ever be Forgotten Heather & Mike. I for one can tell you without a doubt…with every picture, story and video…my life is richer b/c of her!

    Thank you.
    Your Friend,
    Jenn

    122 Evonce May 29, 2009 at 9:37 pm

    Every day I read your blog, and every day I don’t know what to say. I want to tell you something great, but it all sounds so cheesy. I’m sorry just isn’t enough, I know that. My heart breaks for you and your family.
    Thank you for sharing with us her life.

    Evonce’s last blog post..Food Review: El Paisa Grill

    123 Kari (heartatpreschool) May 29, 2009 at 10:38 pm

    Beautiful, beautiful laughter!!!

    Kari (heartatpreschool)’s last blog post..Thankful Anyway Thursday

    124 amy May 29, 2009 at 11:22 pm

    So she DID have those gorgeous eyes from the get go… Such wise and beautiful eyes..

    I have to agree with the other posters who commended you on your regularity of videotaping little Maddie. Such a treasure for you now I would imagine.

    Keep posting, sharing and making it through the day. We are here for you.

    125 Sarah May 30, 2009 at 3:12 am

    pure happiness defined… there is nothing like a childs laughter however your Maddie had a way of pulling everyone in and making them fall in love with her.

    Sarah’s last blog post..The Theme Song Of My Life

    126 Erica May 30, 2009 at 6:39 am

    This video just made my day!! Thanks for sharing so much of your life with all of us.

    127 Emily May 30, 2009 at 7:57 am

    Love that laugh. Especially the squeals at the end! It’s awesome that you have so much video of her.

    Emily’s last blog post..Wallaby-Dog

    128 Jayme Q. May 30, 2009 at 8:07 am

    I have spent the morning chasing and corraling my suddenly rough-and-rowdy toddler, when I took a break from the chaos to read your latest post. I was watching the video when all of a sudden, my son stopped – and turned. He came and climbed up in my lap and watched the video with me, and it brought tears to my eyes. Thank you for once again reminding me how important our babies and their hugs and laughter truly are.

    As always, I’m thinking of you. (And thinking that I need to video more often.)

    129 mosey along May 30, 2009 at 8:56 am

    Ahhh, the chipmunk chuckles. So unbelievably adorable. Mary Poppins is a big hit around here these days too….. “I love to laugh” is a definite favourite….

    mosey along’s last blog post..Tactical Error

    130 Amy May 30, 2009 at 12:55 pm

    I know have bought a camcorder so we can record our one year old son (9 month adjusted). I have tons of pictures of him ( I am a picture freak like you) but I wanted his voice on record. He talks and “sings” all the time. His laugh is the best sound I have ever heard.
    Your blog has made me want to be a better mother and person.
    I had a pedicure this morning and picked a purple color for Maddie.
    Take care.

    131 Bonnie May 30, 2009 at 2:03 pm

    Both my kids ran to the computer as I played this video. You’re right, her laughter is infectious!

    Bonnie’s last blog post..Hoot, hoot!

    132 Marti from Michigan May 30, 2009 at 2:41 pm

    I just love to hear babies giggle, so adorable! Thank you for sharing. Continued love and prayers to you from Michigan.

    133 Maria Delgado May 30, 2009 at 3:55 pm

    It’s wonderful that in the midst of your sorrow you hold tight to the beauty of these memories!

    Maria Delgado’s last blog post..Giveaways! I’ll be adding more through the week.

    134 Debi Powell May 30, 2009 at 4:48 pm

    That Maddie was some kid! Thanks so much for sharing her with us… she’s loved in Gainesville FL! Her precious laugh made my heart skip a beat…. I know you miss that terribly. Keep the videos coming… seems like MANY people need their daily “Maddie Fix”!! (what does that say about her?)
    Hugs…
    Debi

    135 Domestic Extraordinaire May 30, 2009 at 4:54 pm

    what a beautiful sound-music to my ears. xoxo

    Domestic Extraordinaire’s last blog post..I go from crazy to shampoo in 6.5 seconds flat

    136 Kelley Land May 30, 2009 at 5:32 pm

    There is not much more heartwarming than a baby’s laughter. What a PRECIOUS video montage of your little beauty enjoying life to the fullest. Thank you for sharing it!

    137 lisa wood May 30, 2009 at 8:45 pm

    Music to the ears….love her laughter

    lisa wood’s last blog post..Mangosteen Fruit Juice For Health Benefits

    138 alison May 30, 2009 at 8:48 pm

    So, so beautiful. The best sound, thank you so much for sharing her w/us.

    139 Rachel May 30, 2009 at 8:56 pm

    Sweet baby. Such joy in her laugh! I think she did more living in 17 months than some people do in 100 years.

    Rachel’s last blog post..Seniorita

    140 Shannon May 30, 2009 at 9:43 pm

    Thinking and praying for you tonight. Maddie is so beautiful and sweet. I love looking at her pictures and videos.

    141 Susan May 31, 2009 at 10:57 am

    I love Maddie’s little screeches of delight before the giggles start the best. Babies are such a joy. When they laugh, we laugh, then they laugh some more…

    142 Anonymous May 31, 2009 at 1:33 pm

    Please listen to “Address in the Stars” by Caitlin & Will.

    143 Krissa May 31, 2009 at 1:37 pm

    Commenting again…I can imagine you re-living Maddie’s last night as you typed this post. (((HUGS))). and more..

    144 Kristen McD May 31, 2009 at 3:49 pm

    My word, what a love.

    145 Bon May 31, 2009 at 4:11 pm

    i just listened to your daughter’s laughter, and scrolled down and saw her tiny handprint left behind on your parents’ window, and her beauty and your ache combined have me sitting here in tears again, smiling at you with that wincing look on my face.

    i lost my firstborn, though before we ever got to hear him laugh, before he left handprints anywhere. i am here just to say, again, that i’m so sorry Maddie’s gone…and so amazed at the same time by the record of beauty she’s clearly left on the world.

    it’s an honour to get to know her, even this way.

    Bon’s last blog post..when i grow up

    146 deb from ny May 31, 2009 at 4:42 pm

    Not much to say…. just thinking about you…. you keep writing and I will keep reading. Love and hugs being sent from a cyber stranger.

    147 MommyNamedApril May 31, 2009 at 5:06 pm

    music, indeed! :-)

    MommyNamedApril’s last blog post..The Haircut Heard ‘Round the World

    148 Kim May 31, 2009 at 7:25 pm

    Such a precious laugh. :) Thank you for sharing her with us.

    149 Denise May 31, 2009 at 8:36 pm

    Beautiful, there’s nothing like the sound of laughter.

    Denise’s last blog post..School Is Out For Summer

    150 Childwoman May 31, 2009 at 11:12 pm

    Listening to her laugh, is like a balm for a tired heart….her laughter is all tinkly, gurgly and funny…

    Shit shit shit..this is so heartbreaking and so fucking unfair…

    Childwoman’s last blog post..Mum. Dad.

    151 LiteralDan May 31, 2009 at 11:48 pm

    It’s strange that I recognize that laugh even though I never got to meet her, and yet I’m glad I’ve had the chance to enjoy it anyway. So much personality in that little package!

    LiteralDan’s last blog post..Fun with typos: Hoes are people in your neighborhood

    152 Haley-O June 1, 2009 at 7:04 pm

    That laugh is music to anyone’s ears. What a beautiful, beautiful girl.

    Haley-O’s last blog post..My New Job: Finally, the Big Reveal — Meet bTrendie.com!

    153 Melissa June 3, 2009 at 9:30 pm

    Oh my goodness, I LOVE this!

    154 Jen June 12, 2009 at 12:57 pm

    I’ve never commented before, but I had to write today and tell you that I was watching your video of Maddie laughing with my 3 month old, and she was completely entranced watching her. How could anyone not be? She was such a beautiful cheery girl. I can’t imagine how much you miss her. I hope you’ll keep writing.

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