My Darling Super Princess, Forever Cherished.
This is a very hard post to write but I feel I owe it to the hundreds of people who have shown support to our family throughout the World over the last two weeks.
On Saturday the 3rd of February, on a very “normal”day in our normal, happy life, our World was shattered. In short, our beautiful daughter Ava got into our car which was, unusually, parked in full sun in the middle of the day. She had been with Grandad who lives next door (we have one wall around both properties) and said she was returning to my house but in fact went searching for something in the car. We always lock it. Just not that day. Once she got in she shut the door and was not able to find her way back out.
Our princess fought so bravely for two days in ICU but on Monday the 5th of February, she flew to Heaven.
Words can never express the pain in our heart or the void we feel. It makes no sense but we are so grateful to have had her for three years and we will continue to work very hard to provide our other three children a wonderful childhood filled with happy memories.
Ava, my amazing, sweet, clever Super Princess..I miss you with every ounce of my being. I love you to the moon and back.
there are no words to express how sorry i am for your loss. you and your are in my prayers!
Amanda
http://elkins.blogs/sneakpeek
oh Sheye. I can only imagine how hard that would have been for you to write.
Words fail me to try & explain or justify as I will never understand.
Know that she touched so many people, all over the world.
With much love, support & friendship Carrie, Ren, Zali & Fynn.
Sheye,
I’ve had trouble thinking of what to write, but I knew I had to say something. I found your blog through another blogger’s post about Ava. I also saw her beautiful slideshow. Since I heard (about a week ago), Ava hasn’t left my mind. I want you to know that I’ve spoken to almost every family I know who have children about car safety, to always lock car doors, and to teach children what to do if they’re ever stuck. It’s still winter here in Canada, but this is still an important lesson. When the summer rolls around I plan to create a poster/email to send around, and a banner for my blog. I will never forget Ava, and your family is in my prayers daily. Sometimes in life you can’t see the sunshine for the clouds. I’ll be praying that the clouds open soon and the joy that Ava brought to your life will be celebrated every day. I also want to say some things about your photography, but that can wait. For now, peace to your family. I’m cherishing every moment now like I never have before.
Dear Sheye,
You and your famiy are in our thoughts everyday! We know what a wonderful people and parents you are. You have been an eternal friend to Carrie and I know that this personality will get you through this hard time. You have so many wonderful memories of Ava, we saw the beautiful slide show of her and can only wish that our daughter will be as happy as she was, she was a true little princess!!! She has touched the hearts of all of us, and will always be in our thoughts!
Karma will come to save you!!!
Lots of Love, hugs and kisses, Terry, Holly and Sansia xoxoxo
My family and I are so so sorry for your loss..We all as parents need to treasure every moment we have with our kids.Every moment GOOD or BAD!!!I cannot imagine your grief.But I absolutely believe it is Gods will that you will see her again one day..In reading your blog I can tell how passionate you are as a mom.You just take care of you and know so many are praying for you.
Yes, Ava has truly been a gift to you and your family, but what a gift you all were to her. Don’t forget that honey – how loved Ava was. HOw loved she continues to be. Ava gave you so much joy and in turn, you filled her world with love and allowed her to be the superprincess she is! We will miss her so much. Jennifer x
WE are so so very sorry for your loss..What a beautiful little girl.
Sometimes there are no answers for
things like this.I believe that it is Gods will that you are reunited with her again.We as parents need
to cherish our children each and every day good or bad (so hard in those trialsome moments).But they are all to be treasured!!!From the US you are in our prayers…
I ache for you. Many people ache for you. Ava’s loss has rippled through so many lives.
Tracey (Sussanah’s sister)
Sheye honey,
So brave. Thanks for sharing. Words like sorry sound so redundant and empty, they are simply just not big enough to describe your loss. You and yours are constant in my thoughts.
Love you.
Sussanah x
Sheye honey,
Ava touched all of us so deeply & we will never, ever forget her.
Words just fail me…
All our love
Lea, Mark, Bailea & Asha
xxx
Sheye ~ your Super Priness will live on in the hearts of sooo many people. She literally brought tears to my eyes when I met her ~ she really was ‘too beautiful’. Her personality matched that beauty……
Please know I am always here for you ~ love forever, V xx
Sheye, you are just an amazing person. To share Ava with us now is just beautiful. Thank you so much, not just for your recent post but for the gift of her beautiful images that you gave to us so freely. I will never forget her amazing smile or liquid chocolate eyes looking out at me from my computer screen. ((big hugs to you and your family))). Karen (brissiemum)& family.
Sheye, that was so beautiful to read. Even in these tragic times you think of others. That is such a wonderful gift. Thank you so much for sharing Ava with us. She will forever have a place in my heart.
k8
Sheye,
I heard about Ava through another photographer’s website, and I am soooo incredibly sorry for your loss. It was so evident through your postings and the pictures you took of Ava- how much you loved and adored her. I wish you and your family the very best. I know you and your family will find peace and happiness living in wonderful honor of Ava’s spirit. And I believe wholeheartedly you have a beautiful angel to watch over all of you until you are reunited. Take care & God Bless- sending many prayers and thoughts your way!
Melanie in GA/USA
It’s so hard as a mom to attempt to make sense of any of this. Through your always inspirational site, I felt your spirit and that of your daughter. What a gift you both were given! How achingly she will be missed, but I know that her strong spirit is still hugging you daily. She will always be remembered in your beautiful photos. We sent sweet Ava her pink balloons from Chicago- a little bird flew off with the balloons carrying them straight to Heaven. You can even see it in the photo! – I know she is dancing. Hopefully all the hugs from around the globe will ease your burden a little. Love, hugs, prayers, comfort and strength to all of you….
As a mom, it is so hard to make any sense of any of this. While following your blog, I have felt the strong connection you shared with your daughter. What a gift for both of you! Her strong spirit is still here, I know, hugging you all day long. Her beautiful life will always be remembered in your beautiful photos. We sent sweet Ava her 3 pink balloons from Chicago and a little bird carried them straight to the Heavens. You can even see it in the picture. I’m sure Ava is dancing. Love, hugs, prayers, comfort and strength to all of you…
God bless you and your family. Your beautiful daughter will be remembered by so many people through the photos you have shared. I hope you can all find some peace.
Zoe
You don’t know me, but I’m deeply touched by your post. I can’t even imagine what your going through right now.Even though I’m a complete stranger to you and your family I wish so badly I could reach out and give you a hug. Please know that there is one more person praying for your family. If I can give you one thing to hold onto it would be this…I believe you will be with her again someday.
I don’t know you, but found out about Ava through another photographer’s website. Although words don’t even come close to expressing how my heart aches for you, I just wanted you to know that there’s a stranger in the US who has been thinking about you and your family ever since I heard about Ava’s accident.
I’m so so sorry for the loss of your beautiful daughter.
((hugs))
You and your family have been in our hearts and minds ever since we heard the news. Thank you for sharing these words with us even in the middle if your crisis. Even though we’ve never met, I feel as though I know you and Ava through your blog, your photographs, & your posts. Please accept our deepest condolences, we too will miss her beautiful smile & her shining spirit.
My heart breaks for you and your family. Sorry seems so inadequate… Please know you are in my thoughts..
Her effect is far reaching…
Sheye & Crayton
& Luca & Mason & Ivy
Just wanted to tell you all that I have told absolutely EVERYONE I know about Ava and how special she is and sent them all a thousand photos so that they can too marvel at her beauty.
I have put her photo up with the rest of my photos on my mantel and her cheeky smile reminds me that to feel that sorrow means there had to have been such an incredible love, and that makes me happy. Happy that you got to experience that and have and hold her and nothing can erase that fact.
I have been trying to appreciate all that I could see Ava loved in this world, because I think she had it right. A pure flash of lightening
We think of you every day, every hour, every other second.
Love your ‘5 year old’ cousin Keira
& Craig :) xx
Dear Sheye
I cannot tell you how you and your family have touched me. I cannot even imagine your sorrow and your longing to see sweet Ava’s beautiful face or to touch her little hands…but you will get to when your time has ended on this earth. I believe that Ava had a purpose that reaches far beyond your family, she has touched the world through your blog and your photography. Thank you.
I have prayed everyday for your family since I read about it on another photographer’s blog. You are blessed and Ava was so blessed to have you.
Ava lives, she lives in you, her siblings, her father and grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins…she lives forever in your blogs and photographs. She is so much happier now and she can’t wait to hug you again. She will.
My heart and prayers go out to you.
Karla
Illinois,USA
i know you don’t know me at all, and i found your blog through another photographers blog. when i heard about your beautiful princess ava, my heart just broke for you. i can’t even begin to imagine your pain. but i know that ava will continue to live in your heart and the hearts of those who loved her. she will be in my heart too for she touched my soul deeply, just by reading the beautiful words you wrote about her and seeing her lovely happy smile in the photographs you have on your blog. you are an amazing mama and i know one day you will be reunited with your precious ava again.
prayers.
tara pakosta
I’m so sorry Sheye. So so very sorry. I’ve been following your story via flickr and a bit on the Grow forum, but have not yet told you how much my heart goes out to you. It does… it reaches to you and sends you love and light.
-Jen Downer
I’ve seen many balloons for Ava on Flickr, but had no idea who this “Ava” was… now I know, but now that I know, I am deeply saddened. Praying for you in California!! My friend Court… who also loved pink… she’s been in heaven a few months now, I can just see her showin’ Ava the ropes of flyin’ on fluffy clouds and watching over loved ones. I can see my beautiful Courtney takin’ care of your beautiful Ava, I can see them laughing together.
God bless you.
Sheye,
You are constantly in my thoughts and prayers and I too have shared your story with everyone I know. Ava was a gift that can never be taken away from you, I just know that her life had greater meaning, now we just have to wait and find out what it was.
All my love to you and your family, I have never forgotten your wisdom,strength and words of advise during my panicked phone call to you prior to having Sarah, I’ve loved keeping up with your news through Jen and seeing the photos of your beautiful children.
Take Care, Sweet Georgous Girl
Love Gena xx
Sheye,
You are constantly in my thoughts and prayers and I too have shared your story with everyone I know. Ava was a gift that can never be taken away from you, I just know that her life had greater meaning, now we just have to wait and find out what it was.
All my love to you and your family, I have never forgotten your wisdom,strength and words of advise during my panicked phone call to you prior to having Sarah, I’ve loved keeping up with your news through Jen and seeing the photos of your beautiful children.
Take Care, Sweet Georgous Girl
Love Gena xx
Dear Sheye and Family,
My friends are on your MFS site and the day of Ava’s accident ripped a hole in our MIC mums group too.
It is like we know your beautiful daughter, the photos, the prayers, the stories of your children are amazing.
Hugs to you, you are an amazingly brave woman and my prayers are with you.
Justine in Sydney
http://juzziebear.spaces.live.com
Forever my Family has been changed because of Sweet Ava
Much Love to You All XXX
Sheye,
I am so so sorry and so deeply touched by your loss.
I have not had the pleasure of meeting you and Ava but you have truly touched me as you have to many many the world over.
I have emailed everyone I know and continue to tell everyone who will listen about educating their children so that this may never ever happen again to anyone else.
I cannot imagine your pain but I really wish for you the strength to get through and I send you a mountain of love.
Kym xx
I can only begin to imagine the pain you must be feeling. I admire and respect how strong and composed you were to even write this blog. I’m a very protective mom of an almost 3 year-old girl, but I know that freak accidents like this can happen at anytime…no matter how careful we think we are…and it just scares the heck out of me. My thoughts and prayers are with your family and your precious little angel…
The world is not fair..i am serously crying here! i didn’t know her but she seemed such a happy and sweet girl and it ache in my heart..i am thinking of you and wish all the best in the future for you and your family..and remember she is in a good place! there is nothing near heaven what says… she is fine :)
I am so sorry for your family’s loss.
Thank you for sharing your images of beautiful Ava through your pain. Your grief must be unknowable.
I hope you have some peace in your heart as you go forth in life.
Rachel
You don’t know me, but as the others have said, Ava touched my life as far as here in the US. Her face is forever imprinted in my mind. As a mother as well, my heart aches. You are in my thoughts and prayers. God must’ve needed another angel…
Stacy
I don’t even know you, but this just killed me. I can’t imagine how horrible the feeling is.
Dear Sheye and family, another one here who you do not know, but I could not go past and not express my deepest sorrow and sympathy for the tragic loss of your beautiful daughter.
I am so sorry for your loss, my love to you.
Pauline
She is so beautiful! I’m so sorry for your loss! You’re in my prayers.
Our 3 pink balloons have floated skyward, our son has been taught and we continue to practice how to get help, to beep the horn and to exit a car safely. Our eyes have been filled with tears for you and our hearts have sunk at every thought of your loss. The loss you are enduring is unimaginable but I wanted to post here so that you knew how many people in our community are here for you, and how many are celebrating a life too short.
Dear Sheye
If life has taught me one thing it is that there is no rhyme or reason. Somewhere I guess there must be a much bigger plan. How I wish someone would explain it to me.
Through your beautiful images we were privileged enough to have had the pleasure of watching your gorgeous baby blossom into an incredibly enchanting beautiful girl. How lucky we were.
Your loss is immeasurable. When we heard what had happened we sat down and watched the slideshow and cried for hours.
We giggled about how when you posted Ava in the pink and chocolate chino dress peeping out through the curtain on AM’s I had to return Mia’s because Ava had looked so fabulous I was worried Mia could not do it any justice LOL.
Max will be four in August. This year and every year after we will put a pink candle on his cake and remember the beautiful unique Ava.
I have copied those wonderful songs by Tori Amos, Eva Cassidy and Elizabeth Mitchell to our ipods and everytime I hear them I will remember your Super Princess.
You and your family will be forever in our thoughts, we will pray and hope that somehow in the future you manage to find some peace.
Alison (Ellez32) and Deanne
Oh Sheye…
What a beautiful and strong woman you are *hugs tight*
I miss her so so much…
I´m still at loss for words when I think about sweet Ava and you and your families – which is every single second in the day…
The immeasurable pain of your loss…no words could EVER portray how incredibly sorry I am :(
Ava, our “Super Princess” will be engraved in my heart FOREVER!!!
I carry a little photo of her with me every single day and just seeing her smile at me makes me want to be a better person ♥
Thinking of you every single day, Sheye and am sending you strength and love and peace and support *hugs tight*
With all my love,
Jesse
Sheye
My heart is still breaking for you beautiful family. The love I felt at Ava’s funeral was so amazing. She is such a wonderful “Super Princess” that has touched so many people in so many ways. When anyone sees your amazing photography they can just feel the essence and spirit that Ava had. My Gardenia and photo are my constant memory of what a special and loved little girls she was.
All my love, Sue, Mark, Tim, Georgi & Ellie xx
I came across a link to your blog from Michelle Cronson’s blog, and read with a sinking heart about the recent loss of our daughter. I am typically a lurker, but wanted to express my sincere and deep sympathy for you, your husband and your children. I, too, lost a daughter – mine was stillborn 4 years ago, and it is a pain I live with everyday. I pray that you will find God’s comfort and grace to live each day as you miss your dear Ava. May you feel her within you always.
Sheye………..well i have just been perusing your whole blog. All i can think is that you are one AMAZING women who should be an inspiration to us all. I cannot even imagine how you are feeling. Ava sure was one AMAZING little girl – with just as much spark as her Mum! Please keep your spark going – even though right now it may feel like a dwindling small ember. Do it for Ava. Thoughts and prayers are with you and your family from Far North Qld.
I, too, came across a link to your blog from Michelle Cronson’s blog and am sitting here in tears about your loss. And yet, you’ve taken the time to share her wonderful life with complete strangers….touching us all so. Even I will never forget.
Cristina in EP/TX
Sheye,
I cant even begin to express how much we have been thinking of you all. The girls and I let our balloons float out over the ocean, it seemed the best place for us to go and I knew there where going to be SO many balloons flying in the sky already for her that day. We went back for a swim yesterday and Emily came up to me with a pink balloon ‘For Ava Mummy’.
She will never be forgotten Sheye, and I will always tell people how much she was loved and how special the SUPER PRINCESS was.
Trudi
xxx
I have no words to say how sorry I am and how much this touched me. I think about it all the time and I’m not even a mom yet…we will never imagine your pain and all I can do is wish I could do something to relief your pain. God bless princess Ava and your wonderful family.
I just found the story of your little Ava. She truly was a beautiful angel! I have never met you, but my heart aches for you and your loss as a mother!
I will be praying for you and your family.
-Janelle
my heart aches for you! i am so sorry!
Dear Sheye and family,
My heart aches for you all.
Even though I have never met you all I hold you so close to my heart and thoughts every single day.
Never has anything outside of my family affected or touched me like your little angel Ava.
I appreciate my children like never before and realise that even the most perfect family (like yourselves) can be dealt such a tragedy completely out of their control.
The reasons why only god knows, as he watches Princess Ava singing laughing and playing with all the other children now.
How wonderful for you to have had such an angel in your lives, but how lucky was she also to have had such a wonderful loving family in hers.
Sheye the love you have for your children just beams out of your photography , you are a true inspiration as a mother ,I really mean that, how fortunate your babies are to have you!!
We were thrilled to have your permission to have a photo of Ava in our house . Thankyou so much.
God Bless you and watch over you all
Love Rachael and Family (Vanessa’s sister)
Your sweet family,
This is Michelle Krainich(a friend of Jefra’s Sister), your long lost friend-whom you have never known, yet I feel a special closeness to you and your family. Unfortunately we belong to the same club. A club no one wishes to join, but after becomming a member knowing there are people who can identify with the grief you are experiencing. My entire being sympathizes with your family. What a blessing it is to have these sweet children who are called back to heavenly father at such an early age-they are truly angels in our homes. Your baby is beautiful. I had the opportunity to watch her slideshow, she is an absolute angel here on earth no doubt about it. As for you: take it easy, pamper yourself, love yourself, your children and your husband. You will see Ava again, you will kiss her and hug her and play with her hair again. She is with you more than you know. I hope one day when the time is right we will have the chance to talk and cry and share our memories of our angels with eachother. Lots of love and prayers from the Krainich Family.
Love,
Michelle.
The Rosemeyer Family,
This is Michelle Krainich, (Jefra’s sisters friend). My thoughts and prayers have been constant for your family since I heard of your loss. We lost our son just 9 months ago, though you never want to join this club, it’s helpful to know that some people can relate to the grief and pain you are in. I hope one day, when the time is right, we can share with each other our angel’s memories with one another. Sweet Ava was a princess, she is gorgeous. There is something unique about the children that go back to Heavenly Father at an early age, you can see it in their eyes. Her eyes sparkle! What a blessing it is to have these little angels in our homes. Know that I am praying for you and thinking of your sweet family all of the time. Your baby girl Ava and my sweet baby James are together and are happy-I have to believe that. I will write again soon,
love,
Michelle
In the depths of despair, feel her sweet breath on your cheeks:
Feel her fingers caress the tipped tears on your face.
Close your eyes in the morn, she will whisper her words:
“I am here: I am yours: I am loved”.
When the sun shines its rays; she is dancing above:
She is singing her songs with the birds.
Never think she is gone: she’s beside you, within you:
Princess Ava is with you: as one.
I am so very sorry for your loss – Jennifer emailed to tell me – you live just round the road from me – my girls are just a little older than your Angel – they also dance. The thought of such a thing just breaks my heart – you are so very brave. I am so very very sorry.
Tamar
Sheye, Crayton, Luca, Mason and Ivy. There are no words to soothe or understand why. Ava touched the world and the world has given you all a virtual hug and a shoulder to lean on when you feel the need.
Sheye, you are such a wonderful mum and friend. Just remember when you still have this hole in your heart in many years to come and the hurt has faded for others outside your family, that I will be there in a virtual heartbeat for you if you want me to.
Know that I hug Declan more often now and make sure I tell him I love him every time he leaves my sight. We never know what tomorrow or even the next hour holds. I admire your strength in writing this for everyone that Ava touched on her way to heaven.
Much love from us all and you are in my thoughts often. Your super princess will not be forgotten.
xoxoxo
Cherie Shaun and Declan
Ava has touched so many lives… and will continue to do so… Bless you and your family through this time and the days to follow.
With much love across the ocean,
Kathy
I had only just recently found your blog and started enjoying your images and your words of your family – so bursting with love in every photo and sentance on the screen. Then – to follow a link on flickr and see that you had lost your precious little girl. If it cuts me to the core, I cannot even begin to imagine what it has done to you, to your family, to all those who knew and loved Ava in real life, and not just as a vibrant and spunky young beauty captured on a computer screen. It must have taken the very breath from your body. I took some time, in honour of Ava to read back through your posts and to gaze upon your photos – and these words just made me stop and sit for a long time before I could go on;
“you see she’s never away from me. Like glue, she sticks to my side…a constant babble of “mummy i’m hungry..close your eyes i’ve got a suprise…can you read me a book…i want to go to the shops”…so when I pick up my camera, she’s the first thing i see”
I have no idea what words to choose to communicate to you how Ava’s spirit has touched my heart, how your spirit has touched my heart, that I wish I could carry even an ounce of your heavy, heavy burden for you.
How to end a note that, in the end is far too inadequate to express what it needs to express?
I will just say that I will continue to hold Ava in my heart – and hope that you have many people to hold you.
Jeanette LeBlanc
Phoenix, Arizona
Dear Shaye & Family
You have my heartfelt sympathies I am so sorry for your loss. No mother should have to go throught he pain of loosing a child.
May Ava live for a lifetime in you memories and your heart. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Tracy
there are no words to be offered that will help fill the hole in your heart and in your life. I hope you find the strength to find happiness in life again.
I am so sorry for your loss. I just don’t know what to say. Your beautiful precious Ava is such a darling. My heart just breaks for you all.
All my love.
I came across your blog from a fellow photographer. My heart stopped, I have a little boy her age. Reminds me to take the time to give that extra kiss.
I can’t imagine what you and your family must be going through but I do know Ava is watching over you and the little ones. An angel that touched your lifes with such happiness. Just from looking at your beautiful photo’s of her, she has left an imprint on mine as well. Sheye, you are strong,a wonderful mother, and an amazing photographer. I can tell your babies know you love them so much! I’m so sorry for the loss of your little girl…
Came across a Kenny Chesney song and the lyrics reminded me of you all. “Who’d you be today” is the name.
God Bless you Ava. Beautiful Sweet Angel.
My deepest sympathy for you and your loved ones. My thoughts are with you.
do not cry
I am here
I am with you
I am watching you
I am loving you
I am hugging you
I am happy
I am in your quite room
I am with the birds that sing
I am with each lovely thing
The angels are taking good care of me
This is a wonderful place to be
and you will be with me one day
I then I can say
“See now you know I was ok!”
But for now you need to be strong
Your precious life has to go on
But remember….
I am with you I am not gone
Like so many others I came across your blog via another…. I cannot begin to imagine the sadness in your heart at the moment but my family and I wish you much love and one day a peaceful heart….
Meg.
Dear Sheye,
I read about your daughter Ava nearly a week ago now in a local newspaper and went online to view the amazing slide show. You and your family have been in my thoughts often since then. Ava was more than beautiful, she was so full of life and expression and such ’spunk’ sprung from those eyes. I am so incredibly saddened by your loss and the sheer unfairness of it. I have felt an ache in my heart often just thinking about you, and hope that your ache will slowly ease.
I was so inspired by your photos, they show a house of happy children, surrounded by the love of their parents and the extra gift you are giving them of a grandparent right next door. As an Australian living overseas your photos reminded me of our great country and that the essence of the aussie lifestyle and aussie kids is still alive. You have reminded me to continue working at being the best parent I can be. Thank you for that.
Please know I will be thinking of you and your family for a long time
You must have touched many lives Ava and family as I have been linked to this blog several times through email and other scrapbooking and photography blogs I frequent. My heart breaks that Ava is no longer with you, but I rejoice that she is with our Father in Heaven. We don’t know why things like this happen, and I suspect it is better to not think about the shoulda, coulda, woulda’s…but know that she is making a sweet place for your entire family in Heaven when it is your time to come home. I pray that Ava’s death is not in vain and that many other families can learn from your tragedy. My thoughts and prayers go out to your during this most difficult time, and I pray that this new journey you are now traveling is full of sweet memories of your precious little girl. God bless you in the days ahead.
what is there to say at a time like this?
I don’t know what I would do in a similar situation, but try and remember that she is in a wonderful place.
Shey,
So so sorry at your tragic loss.
I will try and organise a pink balloon photo.
Warm hugs,
Andrew
Dear Sheye,
Ava was one of those so joyously alive that it seems impossible that she is gone. Even though I never met her, her light and spirit shine through your pictures, and that radiance will always stay with me. I, too, hold my children closer and more precious than before.
Continuing to think of and pray strength and courage for you and your beautiful family.
with love, Paulyn
Love is stronger than death
My heart aches for you and your family. No words can express my deep sadness, and I pray that you may all somehow find peace as you make it through this time of unbearable loss. Much love to all. Eva will not be forgotten!
I just wanted to let you know that Ava’s tragic passing has not been in vain. I now am beginning to appreciate all the small things in life, and to take the time to listen and enjoy my two children, love them more deeply and try to give them a happy and loving childhood.
Before I heard the news of this tragic accident, I was a normal mum, cleaning and running from job to job but now I realise these things are not important.
I hope that you and your family can find a new normal and cherish all those beautiful memories and photos you have of your little princess, Ava.
I think of you often, and Ava’s memory will be forever etched in my heart.
xoxo
With tears in my eyes I cannot imagine what you have been through. My girls and I pray for you, your other children and your Super Princess since we found out through this web. Ava touched my girls unlike any other I have seen. I have a 6 year old girl in first grade- she told her class about Ava and what happened and the lesson to be learned from your sweet girl. I also have a 3 year old who is much like yours… at my side, in my lens, in pocket… and then my boy is 1…
The girls tell anyone standing still about Ava and what happened. We pray for her and for you…and will continue to do so.
AnneMarie
Dear Sheye,
I’ve written and deleted and re-written this more times then I can count. I am at a lose for words. Please just know that you and your family are in my thoughts. Pink ballons will soon be flying high in the Ohio sky for your sweet little Ava princess.
With Love, Beth & Family
My heart is breaking for you. I know you do not know me, but I happened here via Flickr. I’m so sorry for your loss. May it give you peace to know that she is at peace and will be watching you from heaven. I’m so so sorry. All the best to you. – Gina
sheye,
you have been and remain in my thoughts and prayers. i know that it’s at this time, later – when life begins to go on, that the pain of it all begins to sink in. i have been so touched by your blog, your photos, your memories. may god continue to hold your hand, as he holds sweet ava’s. warmest hugs to you,
martha
OH gosh…I am absolutely beside myself. I too have a three year old always by my side…..I too have a love for photography….and I too say, “I love you to the moon and back”……did I pick that up somewhere or is it ironic we both say that?
My heart goes out to you and your adorable family. I can’t even begin to understand the pain you are feeling. Thank you for sharing your life with us. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
BIG HUGS,
Natalie
Sheye,
I don’t know you. I found you through Ashley McNamara’s spot on flickr.
I never knew your daughter, but your pain has touched me so much. I am sitting here, crying so hard. I cannot imagine what the world has become to you.
I have wanted a little girl my whole life, and I have one now, Abrianna Shiraz, who will turn one on April 4th. I cannot imagine losing the joy that she has brought to my life. I cannot imagine finding the ability to breath again.
Your daughter has made such an impact on so many peoples lives. One little life, and so many hearts. If I could I would hug you, and take away all your pain.
Your message of regret is a powerful one. I have a son David, who is four. David fights with severe mood disorders, and life with him can feel so impossible at times, and yet I hear your words, and I think how thankful I am. How much I should worry less about.
Thank you so much for your strength of heart, and your love. Your will to live, and to continue to give of yourself, despite losing a part of yourself, is not only admirable, but also inspiring.
Ava will be remembered by me, and my family forever.
Jonathan Pease
http://www.saypease.com
http://www.flickr.com/photos/jpease/
My deepest sympathy to you and your family. She was a beautiful child and I cannot imagine the agony you are going through at this time.
Well I’ve just sat here howling for the last half an hour over this sad but beautiful blog site. I think of my own little princess Katie and the thought of losing her takes the very air from my lungs. I wish I could give you back even just one moment with your darling Ava. Just one more chance to smell that sweet warmth of her hair, or feel her little arms around your neck. But I cannot, so I will instead swear to be ever more vigilant in every moment and every opportunity to protect my own princess. I will cherish every moment and revel in the bliss of her. Tonight she fell asleep in my arms in my bed, a no-no in toddler settling terms, but such sweet comfort. (Well, excluding the toe-nails which must be raked down Mummy’s thigh!)
I can recall a time when I was about five or six and playing in the backyard when I went into our home-made cubby house and got locked in. (The door jammed shut.) It was one of those stinking hot summer days when everything is hazy with heat, and the cubby was like an oven. (It was an a-frame with corrugated iron walls and one unopening window.) I remember sitting on the floor, leaning on the door crying with heat exhaustion and fear and my dog Esky scratching and whining at the other side, distressed by my crying. Whether from her scratching or me leaning, the door suddenly came loose and I tumbled out onto the grass where Esky licked my tears. I can still remember that moment and visualise everything so clearly. After that event, my mother removed the latch from the door – it might have swung open and let in the leaves (and dogs!) in winter wind, but we’d never get trapped in there again.
It is frightening to be a mother, to know your entire reason for breathing is so vulnerable and innocent. But I wouldn’t trade motherhood for all the riches of the most marvellous lifestyle. Your blog has helped remind me of this, and I will live in the loving moments and pray you’ll find happier times ahead, with your Angel Ava looking lovingly over you.
I am sitting here literally streaming tears and trying to choke back making any noise while crying. My 2 children are sleeping in their beds right now and I just want to go in there and hug them both and never let go. I cannot even imagine how hard this loss has been for you and your family. I’m nauseated with sadness. Please know that I am saying a prayer for you and your little Ava. I hope you find peace…..Your story will stay with me.
All my best wishes,
Jeanette
I am sitting here literally streaming tears and trying to choke back making any noise while crying. My 2 children are sleeping in their beds right now and I just want to go in there and hug them both and never let go. I cannot even imagine how hard this loss has been for you and your family. I’m nauseated with sadness. Please know that I am saying a prayer for you and your little Ava. I hope you find peace…..Your story will stay with me.
All my best wishes,
Jeanette
i am so sorry for your lost
I came to your blog through a friend. I probably can’t express my feelings of empathy for you because I don’t know you but you are so strong and I love you even though we’ve never met. You will be in my prayers. She is beautiful and so are the words you wrote for her.
Your family is so beautiful. What a cruel world to take away such an awesome kiddo…I found your website via Flickr and I am heartbroken over your story. I love your photography and the cards made in Ava’s honor… I don’t have anything important to say but I felt like I had to say something. Thank you for sharing your story. Hopefully you have helped save other children’s lives. ((HUGS))
I was directed to your blog by a fellow photographer and you have created amazing images, but what touches my heart most is what you have written. It is so honest, true and real. I’m deeply sorry for your loss. I also have a little girl and I can’t even fathom what you are going through. You are in my thoughts.
i’m so sorry about the incident..
I randomly found your blog, and my heart goes out to you and your family. I pray you will find comfort knowing you will see your beautiful daughter again, in our next life.
I am so sad for you – I don’t know what to say that could help in any way other than
- hopefully each day will get easier to get up in the morning!
I’m not exactly sure how I found your blog… I think youtube. I admire your strength to give a happy live to your children. Amazing.
My heart is broken for you and your family… I was loving your blog and your beautiful pictures but had no idea until I clicked on “Ava”. I am in tears. My heart bleeds for you..
I stumbled across your blog by randomly reading a friends quiz on facebook. I was instantly intrigued as I have a daughter who is 5 now named Ava. Born in 2003. As you have said, there weren’t many Ava’s to be known of then. It is a gorgeous name that fit your Super Princess perfectly! It must be something in the name because my Ava thinks she is just that also, complete with all of the sass.
I cant imagine what heartache you all have endured.
I do know that God is taking care of Ava. My heart goes out to you and your family.
Your Princess Ava is beautiful. I am so sorry for your loss. I found your site from Libby Mei’s. I could just look at your daughter’s picture all day. She is so lovely. Until you are united again, I know you will hold her in your heart.
Keri
I’m sorry for your loss.
I want to say more, but i don’t know what to say…
I will pray for her and for the comfort of everyone.
Love, Rad
tears are falling
thank you for opening up your life to the world
I was so touched by what you said about being thankful that you brushed your daughter’s hair carefully and was now thankful that you did. I treasure each moment with my daughter but I think I will be taking a little more care in the simplest things in life and not rushing through the day after hearing sweet Ava’s story.
You have such a loving spirit and I pray that it is exponentially radiated through all the lives that will be touched from this story.
I also found your site from Libby Mei’s.
I’m so sorry about your lost. I don’t know what its like to loose a child,but I have lost my best friend and there isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t think of him. My heart is with you and your family.
So sorry for the loss of your angel. I have stumbled upon your blog and probably for all good reasons since my son is 15 months and means the world to me (time moves so fast). Sometimes we take life for granted but always need a little reminder of our hearts and minds when it comes to our angels. ::Hugs::
I randomly found your blog, and my heart goes out to you and your family. Ava was absolutely beautiful who had touched so many hearts around the globe. We may never have met but she still is and always will be our beautiful angel. I pray you and your family will find comfort knowing you will see her in our next life.
Please be strong for her and remember, she is watching over you from the heaven.
I don’t know how I came across your blog but I’m so glad that I did. The way you write about your wonderful daughter, Ava, is so touching and poetic. My heart goes out to you and your family. I’ve recently lost a good friend and am happy to hear that joy can inch back into your life while memories never fade.
Thank you.
My heart cries for you and your family.. I`m so sorry for your loss.
Tears are shed here in Canada for your beautiful daughter. I will remember her forever and tell my own children about her. It is in our hearts that Ava lives on.
bless your heart.
I am so incredibly touched by your story. You are an incredible photographer and your daughter Ava was so very beautiful. I believe in heaven and she is there smiling at her courageous mommy. A tearful prayer to you, dear stranger. God bless you all.
I don’t know how I came across your blog, but I want you to know how touched I have been as I have read over all your post. My heart aches for you as a mother and for your entire family. Life is so very precious. I know it won’t help much, but I want you to know that I believe in heaven and I also believe in life after this and that families can be together forever. Ava is beautiful and I pray that you may find the peace and the strength that you need to survive each and every day.
You will see Ava again…but until then, bless your heart.
with tears running down my cheeks, i want to say i’m sorry for your loss.
sheye, you don’t know me and i don’t know you, but i happened upon this website just a few minutes ago. i’m not sure how, but i did. my heart breaks for you and your family. i can’t remember the last time i read something written by a stranger and lost complete control of my emotions like this. i will be celebrating tomorrow with a pink cupcake in honor of your beautiful little angel, ava. may you find peace, and may your family find strength in love.
i am so sorry for your loss. i wish you every blessing in life. thank you for sharing your story.
I came across Ava’s story through a photographer’s website. What a gorgeous gift Ava was to you during her three years. Coming from a family where many children were lost, I know that through the pain, the beauty of who they were remains always. Thinking of Ava and your family. xx
i’ve recently come across your blog and my heart is touched by Ava’s story. She will be remembered and she has touched many lives of even strangers like myself. I will be eating a yummy cupcake in Ava’s honour today and will make sure to give my daughter extra cuddles, today and every day.
my heart goes out to you and your family x
I am truly devastated by your loss of such a beautiful angel as Ava. With two young girls of my own, I cannot comprehend the pain you must be going through.
You are in my thoughts and prayers. I wish you all the best
xx
Sheye, I came across your site last night and was brought to tears. The emotions ran through me and I slept with my little girl last night. My heart breaks for you and I echo the same sentiments as melissa above. But, today, my daughter and I celebrated a beautiful tea party in honor of Ava. We drank from pink tea cups, ate cookies and and even her animals joined in the fun. Taylor wore her angel wings and we lit a candle on the table in honor of Ava. I can only imagine how difficult her birthday is for you. I truly hope that knowing that we paused today to celebrate the blessings of our lives and the memory of your sweet Ava will add a little sunshine to your spirits. I will post images shortly.
God Bless you and God Bless your angel, Ava.
Warm Regards,
Danielle
Everytime I read this story it breaks my heart for you. She is so beautiful and she is with our Holy God. I feel compelled to say that God has meant her for his flock for always and for “Our” flcok for only a short while. He says she will feel no pain, she will only laugh and be her beautiful little self and be loved with more intensity then she has ever known. and she is paving a way for you her whole family to come and be with her. I have no words to express from my heart how terrible I feel for you and your loss, as she is such a great loss and such a beautiful little light. But she will be seen again by all of you who beleive.
I will pray for you and until I visit again I will keep you in prayers. I saw the tribute on Rachel Devines site and in Honor of your sweet princess we will also have a tea party for her… Much love and hugs to you{{{hugs}}} i really wish I could give you those hugs…
Kym Haren
Ava was a beauty! I hope she has a good time in heaven, dancing in the clouds, and catching the pink balloons you sent up to her. We miss you little superprincess!
Sheye,
It looks like I am one of the many people who happened upon your website by chance. First I was totally captivated by your photography skills and then I noticed the tab for “Ava” up at the top of the page. I read your story of Ava’s last days and my heart aches for you. That is so heavy. I have 3 little ones and the thought of an accident like that happening would just destroy me. I’m sure that you think about your beautiful baby girl constantly. She was adorable. Her dark eyes are amazing. I definitely will not forget her or you. Thanks for sharing your story. I hope you have found some peace in your life.
Heidi
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your beautiful little girl. I am very proud of you and the way you have inspired your family and those near and far. May the Lord continue to bless your family and keep Ms. Ava with Him!
hi i have u on my facebook but u never get on so im hopeing u see this when i saw avas story and yours i was inlove with photography becase u made me think that all the pics of ava u were so lucky to have because just think if u had not have had all the pics of ava u would not have all the times she was so clever in the world thats y i became a photographer becase i say take as many pics because u never know what might happen i love u and your family hope the best 4 ava and hug and kiss’ ttyl bye
Hi I hope that ava can come because a iot I no how it is hard to be away from ava the super prinssa.
I hope that you right back
I am so sorry what happed with you and AVA
your grli is gone
i found your site through another and then another while photography stalking (a hobby of mine). i didn’t ever think i would stumble across your pain but i did. i’m so very sorry for what you have endured and would like for you to know how deeply and profoundly your posts have impacted my simple views. God’s blessings on you and your family. (you are gifted.)
Dear Shaye,
I have 2 girls, I found that I had accidently locked one of my daughters and my keys in my car one morning. I was very lucky, because it was a cool morning and the window was down about 1/2 inch. I called my husband and he pulled the window and smashed it on the ground and got my daughter out of the child restraint she had cleverly got herself into. Since then, i have taught her how to open the windows and explained about unlocking doors. Thanks for your inspirational post about Ava. I believe that there should be more information provided by governments about cars.
somehow i made it to this page today, i am a photographer just getting started…. this was posted some time ago…but as amother with a heart i have to say thank you for writing this and letting me share a part of your life! god bless you and your family and if i ever get to heaven i would be honered to meet this super princess cause she is a absolute angel! my sweet zoey jane is 2 1/2 and tonight i will tell her a story about the super princess Ava… thank you!
I am only 13, but I look at this website everyyyy dayy!! I am sooo sorry about Ava, I heard a while back. I have made youtube videos of her using your GORGEOUS pictures of her. Your family is in my prayers. I will always remember AVA’s rule when I am a mother of a bunch of kids I can call my own. Thank you for the inspiration. Today, I am actually looking on here to find poses (because my mom is a photographer, herself and takes pictures for magazines. Anyways, I am going to show her all of your pictures, because I love all of them and will use the poses. Thank you, Sheye. You are truly an inspiration.
Sheye,
I recently found your blog and I have read every single post. Since then I have not been able to get you, Ava, and your beautiful family out of my mind. I can not imagine going through what you have but the way you handle it is SO inspirational and they way you are determined to keep Ava’s memory alive in so many different ways…it’s just beautiful. I don’t know that I would be able to do it. I picture myself never getting out of bed. I know you can’t do that becasue you have 3 other precious children who you love and the count on you. You are so strong. My only son is 20 so I don’t have a little one anymore but since reading your blog, just know there is one additional person who will from now on be more aware of cars in parking lots on hot summer days. I hope that helps you in some small way to know and I’m sure many, many other people are doing the same thing because of you and Ava. Thank you for continuing to blog. I just felt I had to write to you.
We’re sorry for your loss god bless!You’re in our prayers and hearts
Well, I came back here for whatever reason and saw this. So I must express my deep condolence for your grief and loss. Though I know as you know- she is looking down at you- but with the same adoration and effection. I just knew there was something special and so utterly angelic about that picture -her in emerald green.
My heart goes out to you and I also know He can help you through-
Regina
I have Sheye on facebook and I see all the beutful pickurs of AVA the cute, little ,princeass, and i didin’t forget the angle that flew up in haven.AND the little princeass montsir Ivy
I to have lost my little girl many years ago although not in a car but through ilness. So I can say I know who you and your family are feelling. I to belive she is in heaven and that all the little angles are playing together. That you for sharing your princess with us all. may God bless you all and you do find some peace.
So very sorry for your loss
So very sorry for your loss. May your angel fly in heaven and watch down on you always.
I found you via I heart faces.
I lost my 6 year old son 7 years ago very suddenly and know how your heart feels.
Like you we do everything we can to celebrate the times we had together…and we too ‘work very hard to provide our other three children a wonderful childhood filled with happy memories’.
Grieved by your loss Sheye. Beautiful girl. Praying for you this day.
I realise this blog entry is a couple of years old now, but I still felt compelled to respond. I stumbled upon your blog quite by accident. I was looking at cakes. My heart is filled with compassion for you. And grief for your loss and your pain.
On Christmas eve 2008, my little niece also flew to heaven. But she was terminally ill…we all knew what was coming. Didn’t make it any easier. She was only three weeks away from her 2nd birthday. About 6 weeks after she died, her baby brother was born….with the same terminal condition. He too will probably fly away sometime in the next 12 months. Christmas will never be the same.
I saw my sister’s grief. Unbearable…like your heart is just going to explode from sheer agony. Grief beyond words. And that was only me…the aunty. As close as my sister is to me, and as dear to me as her children might be, I don’t think I could ever completely understand the utter pain of losing one of my own. But, gosh, it hurts enough just being an aunt.
May God shine His eternal and loving face upon you. And though your pain might never fade, may His loving-kindness surround your soul and comfort you and yours.
<3
Every night after two stories read, songs sung and endless hugs and kisses…….I say to my 2 year old “I love you to the moon and back”. She hugs me and says in her mummy’s only audible voice “I love you too mummy”. I crawl over to the other bed, occupied by my newly turned 5 year old. Face in hands I whisper in the ear “I love you to the moon and back” With great love she whispers back ” I love you to the moon and back and some”. This nightly ritual will have more magic now as I think of your Super Princess, your Amazing Ava. Sending u hugs and kisses…….she truly was blessed to have such an amazing mummy……thank you for touching my heart so deeply….xo
I thank you for your strength and the way you turned your pain into change. I am absolutly
possitive that she is sending down a beaming smile and watching your every move. Maybe she is
your gardian angel helping you along. She is a cutie and was blessed to have you as a mother.