A friend shared this scripture with me.
Doctrine and Covenants 121:7-9
7 My son, peace be unto thy soul; thine adversity and thine afflictions shall be but a small moment;
8 And then, if thou endure it well, God shall exalt thee on high; thou shalt triumph over all thy foes.
9 Thy friends do stand by thee, and they shall hail thee again with warm hearts and friendly hands.
I've read this scripture over and over, each time finding comfort. Patrick and I wish to let you know we appreciate all of you so very much. We cannot believe how wonderful people are. There are so many wonderful and great people who are so willing to help a family in need. So thank you. Thank you doesn't even seem to express how grateful we are.
We are grateful to those who have listened to the promptings of the spirit which has guided them into our lives. I will never be the same. Complete strangers have shown up exactly at the right moments to give us what we've needed. Thank you for listening.
To the Calls, thank you, we are so grateful you listened. We know it's no coincidence you were standing in the canal at that exact moment.
To the Policeman, EMT's, Life Flight, Doctors, and Nurses thank you, we know Preslee had the best medical care possible.
To Eastern Idaho- Oh my goodness, we can't say thank you enough. We have had so much support, especially financially. When we received donations we cried because we know what it means to all of you. We are so appreciative. You all have changed our lives forever seeing the goodness of your hearts. We hope to become as giving as all of you.
To everyone around the world who has had us in your thoughts and prayers, thank you. We have felt your prayers, I know that is how we have been able to stand tall during this trial.
I'm so grateful for my Heavenly Father and his son Jesus Christ who have never left us alone for one moment during the past week and half. We felt Their presence constantly. I know that Christ lives and through his atoning sacrifice we will live as a family again.
My prayers will continue to be with you. You have shown so much strength and faith...I will always look up to you for that. I'm sure Preslee is so proud of her mommy and daddy. You guys are amazing.
ReplyDeleteI continue to pray for you and your beautiful family. You have been so strong; you are wonderful parents- God bless you.
ReplyDeleteThe gospel is a wonderful thing that we can hold onto and know that families can be together forever. This life is just an instant.
ReplyDeleteMay you always feel the arms of our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ wrapped securely around you and your family! He loves us all so much, and I know He is weeping with you. Thank you for continuing to share your testimony, your faith, your love, your strength. It truly speaks to so many. Your family has remained in our thoughts and prayers. I know we didn't know each other, but I am filled with tears as I think of the wonderful reunion you will all have with that sweet, sweet Preslee! What a great scripture; I hope you will continue to be blessed with loving kindness.
ReplyDeleteLots of love,
Darci (Murri) Williams
I have listened to Preslee's playlist over and over for the past few days. Music has a way of taking the soul to places nothing else can. Thank you for sharing her sweet spirit and your testimonies through the gift of music. Thank you for your examples of grace and gratitude as you have faced this challenge in your lives. I have a friend who shared a scripture from the Doctrine and Covenants with me when I began down a very difficult road in my life about a year and a half ago. It has brought great comfort to me in moments when I needed to be reminded the most. Doctrine and Covenants 84:88--"And whoso receiveth you, there I will be also, for I will go before your face. I will be on your right hand and on your left, and my Spirit shall be in your hearts, and mine angels round about you, to bear you up." Truly you are surrounded by angels on both sides of the veil who are watching over you and bearing you up. And you have your very own special angel who will take extra good care of you until you see her again. Thank you for touching my life in ways you can't even imagine.
ReplyDeleteAshley-
ReplyDeleteYou and Patrick are an amazing and strong couple. What beautiful fortune it was for Preslee to share her time with you.
My son, Bodhi and Preslee share a birthday-one year apart. It will be our privledge this year to release balloons in sweet Preslee's honor.
We are so sorry for your loss-you are in our hearts.
Peace & love.
Your testimony is incredibly touching. The Father will surely continue to hold you close to his heart. Please know that you both, as well as your extended family, will remain in my prayers.
ReplyDeleteThough we do not know one another, you have been, and will continue to be, ever-present in our hearts and prayers.
ReplyDeleteMonday, March 10, 2008
ReplyDeleteA Poem For Jacey
My friend Heather, who is my brother-in-law's sister, lost her 9 week old baby this morning around 4 am. I can't imagine the pain that she and her family are in, but I wrote this poem for her. If I lost my little infant I would want to know that she would be mine again someday and that someone would love her while she was away from me. Thank goodness they are all members of the church who can find peace in knowing that the Lord is with them and will never leave them comfortless.
"For Jacey"
Go in peace, sweet angel girl, to the
beauty of the Heavens that you know.
Look to the Father who named you His masterpiece.
Listen, for He has called you home.
The world's dark nights shall never touch you.
With sorrow, you shall never weep.
Pain, nor anguish, shall not follow you.
Sickness shall never taint your sleep.
Sing with the angels, sweet baby girl,
send your voice to the audience below.
Whisper in the ears of your weeping mother
that you will meet her at the gates of her home.
Tell her the Father holds you in His arms
and rocks her baby to sleep.
He sings her lullabies of beauty and light
and gives her His glory to keep.
Now, go in peace, sweet angel girl, and wait,
for the Father shall exalt you.
Your mother will hold you when Heaven calls her home.
And then she shall always keep you.
You and your family are still in our thought and prayers
ReplyDeleteIt is a wonderful thing that families are together forever, and one day you will get to raise your preslee.
Just know that the amount of faith and courage that you have has made me want to become a better person, you and pat are beautiful inside and out. Just know that I love you, and I am here anytime you need a friend.
Pat & Ashley,
ReplyDeleteWhat a strong, beautiful family you are! You have inspired us in soo many ways and we love you and will keep you in our prayers. This must be a difficult time for you, but just hold onto the knowledge that this life is just a spec in the eternal perspective and you will be with Preslee again! Heavenly Father loves you and will send his comforting spirit to be with you. Thank you soo much for your bright example, patience and courage!
We love you and are soo sad we couldn't be at the funeral to show our love and support!
Sincerely,
Sam and Kyle Wescott
It is so good to "hear" you, and feel the hope that rises in you and Pat. I pray for you constantly...there is always a prayer in my heart through my daily activities. You 2 amaze me more every day. It appears this will bind you tighter than ever as a family....the Lord is and will be so pleased with you. What a joy Preslee sees with you as her parents....and now she has the honor of seeing things as they truly are. Ash, my sister in the Lord, you have taught me how to love a complete stranger as a sister and your child as my own. I love you three...Crystal
ReplyDeleteI'm still praying for you. You are on my mind and in my heart. I keep thinking about how we are told there is opposition in all things. When we experience such great sorrow there has to be some assurance in the fact that there is an opposite... an extreme joy. I can't imagine how the pain will subside, but I can hope and believe that there is a joy to come that is beyond comparison. I pray for that day for your family.
ReplyDeleteStacy D.
Thank YOU for sharing your beautiful daughter with us. Thank You for raising and LOVING one of GOD'S little angles. Though her time away from her Father In Heaven was short... She couldn't have asked for better earthly parents. I will continue to pray for you. Thank You for sharing your beautiful thoughts.. they have inspired me and touched my soul.
ReplyDeleteYou are so amazingly strong. You're hearts are filled with Christ's love. I can feel through the computer.
ReplyDeleteI'm thinking of you and praying for you.
God bless your sweet heart.
My mother in law told me that the Lord doesn't take anything away without giving so much in return. I hope you can someday feel this blessing. We love you guys and I know you will be together someday. It still breaks my heart. Thanks for sharing your testimony, it is so empowering. I hope that I can be half as strong as you guys when I face my adversity in life.
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful family you are! May Heavenly Father continue to strengthen and bless you & your husband!
ReplyDeleteJust read about your life-changing experience. My heart goes out to you both. I don't know you, but thank you for your strong faith and testimony of our wonderful gospel and our amazing Savior. My prayers will continue to include your family.
ReplyDeleteI sent out a prayer (with some tears) for you during your daughter's viewing and again during her funeral. My first baby girl passed away also. I remember the feeling of being sustained throughout the funeral services and knowing the prayers of so many were what held me together. I hope you have experienced the same, and that you will continue to feel uplifted by the spirit. I ache for you and your loss.
ReplyDeleteMy family and I are praying for you often. Below is a poem I thought you may find comforting...
ReplyDeleteWhat Makes a Mother
I thought of Preslee and closed my eyes
And prayed to God today,
I asked, "What makes a Mother?"
And I know I heard Him say:
A Mother has a baby,
This we know is true -
But, God, can you be a mother
When your baby's not with you?
Yes, you can, He replied
With confidence in His voice,
I give many women babies,
When they leave it is not their choice.
Some I send for a lifetime,
And others for the day,
And some I send to feel your womb,
But there's no need to stay.
I just don't understand this God,
I want my baby here.
He took a breath,
and cleared His throat,
And then I saw a tear.
I wish I could show you,
What Preslee is doing here...
If you could see her smile
With other children and say,
"We go to earth to learn our lessons
of love and life and fear,
but my Mommy loved me so much
I got to come straight here!"
I feel so lucky to have a Mom who had so much love for me,
I learned my lessons very quickly,
My Mommy set me free.
I miss my Mommy oh so much
But I visit her each day.
When she goes to sleep,
On her pillow is where I lay.
I stroke her hair and kiss her cheek,
And whisper in her ear,
"Mommy, Please don't be sad today,
I'm your baby and I am here"
So you see my dear sweet one,
Your children are okay.
Your babies are here in My home,
And this is where they'll stay.
They'll wait for you with Me,
Until your lessons there are through,
And on the day that you come home,
they'll be at the gates waiting for you
So now you see
What makes a Mother,
It's the feeling in your heart,
It's the love you had so much of
Right from the very start.
Pat and Ashley, I can't begin to express the humbling experience this has been for me. I find myself doubting and getting down over the smallest things....and then i look at you two and see how strong you are even in the worst of circumstances. You and Preslee have strengthened my testimony and i know that we are not given any trial that we are not strong enough to handle, and you two have shown this better than anyone i have seen! My prayers are still with your sweet family and i hope that you continue to put your trust in the lord and find joy all around you!
ReplyDeleteMuch Love!!
I came across your story about a week and half ago, and I can't stop thinking how strong you have been through this all. I can feel your faith in God and it has helped me renew my faith. I can also feel how wonderful Preslee was loved and cared for. My thoughts and prayers will be with you, and anytime I am losing my faith, I will think of your story.
ReplyDeleteAshley and Patrick, We are so sorry to hear about Preslee, but we are so grateful for the gospel plan that give us faith and comfort. I only meet you once and Linsy's baby shower, but your family has been in our prayers since we found out about little Preslee. We continue to pray for you and the comfort you need. I can feel the strong love that you have for your girl, and what wonderful parents you two are. Your strength through this has brought faith and hope to us all. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteI am continually amazed by the strength and testimony you have shown with the passing of Preslee. Your testimony is an incredible example to so many, thank you. I continue to pray for you to find comfort at this time.
ReplyDeleteThank you for your testimony...
ReplyDeleteOh how my heart aches for you...we have never met, but as a mother of a 16 months old baby girl...I mourn with you. I haven't been able to stop thinking about your sweet family since I heard the news, and then discovered one of my coworkers used to be a roommate of Ashleys...we are so sad for your loss and truly love you and are in our prayers. And what in inspiration you are to the world.
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ReplyDeleteAshley, I cant stop thinking about you. I am amazed at how strong you and Pat are. I am so grateful for your guys exmaples. Thank you! Preslee was so lucky to have you as her mom!!!
ReplyDeleteThoughts again from us (whom you don't know) in Illinois. We have been following your story and are impressed by your resilliance. That truly must be a difficult thing. Take care.
ReplyDeleteI was also thinking of D&C 84:88. The scriptures have SO many powerful messages. Keep the picture of Christ close by and always remember His love and atoning sacrifice for each of us. He aches for you as do the rest of us. The Lord must have thought very highly of you and Pat to send you one of His most precious and perfect spirits, so perfect that her mission here was so short.
ReplyDeleteJulie
I live in Blackfoot and have never met you, but have been following your blog from a facebook link. Your little Preslee changed lives and hearts...don't doubt that. I know that where there are the greatest sacrifices and heartaches, there will also be the greatest blessings. I am so sorry that you have to go through this...I can't even imagine. Your testimony has touched my heart and reminded me to be thankful for all that I have....and the good and the bad. Much love and many prayers being sent your way!
ReplyDeleteI know you have probably heard this a lot lately, but your strength truly amazes me. Your faith in the Lord is inspiring to someone who has little faith. I don't know what else to say, only I am thinking of you and praying you continue to have such strong faith. Thank you for being such inspiring people.
ReplyDeleteAnd Ashley and Patrick.....THANK YOU!!! THANK YOU for sharing your little Preslee, your experience, and your strong testimony! THANK YOU for allowing me to remember and know that my trials are minimal but that the Lord knows all and blesses me! THANK YOU Ashley for your strong, STRONG faith and love as a mother! It has touched my heart in ways you will never know! SO THANK YOU!!!!
ReplyDeleteMay you continue to be blessed. You will continue to be in my prayers!
Sullengers,
ReplyDeleteI am awake this evening because you are on my mind and I'm unable to sleep. I can not express to you in words the impact you have made on my family. My husband and I have been struggling with some trials and your amazing strength, testimony and example have turned things around for us and allowed us to see in a clearer perspective. We have children, and my husband and I have both shed tears for your family. You and your beautiful baby girl are changing lives. We are praying, praying, praying for you. You are in our thoughts- even here in Texas. During this trial, it is not your sweet Preslee that we mourn for- but for the family of hers still on earth that love and miss her so much. I know that your sweet girl is with you and doesn't want to see mommy and daddy sad. What a joyful reunion she must be having with her Father in Heaven and Jesus Christ. We will continue to pray for you. May the Lord bless you and may you have peace.
Thank you so much for sharing your story with everyone. It has changed me in so many ways. I hop you can get past this hard time in your life and know you will see her again one day. I think about your family daily and cant even imagine what you are going through. I know because of you I stop and give my children more attention, kisses, and hugs then I did before. Thank you!!
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThoughts and Prayers from our family. We have never had the pleasure of meeting you and your family but each night you have been in our prayers.
ReplyDeleteThis is a poem/story that I came across months ago...
Unborn's conversation with God - happy mother's day!
A baby asked God, "They tell me you are sending me to earth tomorrow,
but how am I going to live there being so small and helpless?"
God said, "Your angel will be waiting for you and will take care of you."
The child further inquired, "But tell me, here in heaven I don't have
to do anything but sing and smile to be happy."
God said, "Your angel will sing for you and will also smile for you.
And you will feel your angel's love and be very happy."
Again the small child asked, "And how am I going to be able to understand
when people talk to me if I don't know the language?"
God said, "Your angel will tell you the most beautiful and sweet words
you will ever hear, and with much patience and care, your angel will
teach you how to speak."
"And what am I going to do when I want to talk to you?"
God said, "Your angel will place your hands together and will teach
you how to pray."
"But I will always be sad because I will not see you anymore."
God said, "Your angel will always talk to you about Me and will teach
you the way to come back to Me, even though I will always be next to you."
At that moment there was much peace in Heaven, but voices from Earth
could be heard and the child hurriedly asked, "God, if I am to leave
now, please tell me my angel's name."
God said, You will simply call her, "Mom."
You guys are amazing. You've been in my thoughts everyday since I heard your story.
ReplyDeleteMay you continue to find peace & comfort!
Your faith is inspiring. Y'all are in my prayers.
ReplyDeleteMay God bless you always.
ReplyDeleteWe don't know each other, but I have been watching your blog with everyone else for the last couple weeks. Your faith is a huge testimony builder for me. I have been so touched by the spirit, and by your little Preslee I have broken down several times and have felt just a sliver of your pain. There isn't a day that has gone by that my thoughts don't turn to you. Thanks so much for sharing her story. She is just beautiful, and she is obviously a very special little spirit. How lucky she is to have such neat parents.
ReplyDeleteWish there was more I could do for you, but I keep resorting to the fact that it is in Christ's hands, and he is with you every moment; He and Preslee.
"We must endure out "small" moments "well" for however long our carrying them lasts." - Elder L. Whitney Clayton :)
ReplyDeleteAshley, Pat, Jody and Trent, We were so sorry to have been out of town during Preslee's services. You were on our minds constantly. We heard the service was so nice and was a comfort to the people there. We are thinking of you and continue to pray for you. Remember, "No trial is given us without a gift in it's hands."
ReplyDeleteWe hope in time your hearts will heal.
Love the Daytons
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
ReplyDeleteI'll remember Preslee Jo forever. Thank you for sharing her with us.
ReplyDeleteMy heart aches for you. I can't even begin to imagine the pain and grief you've gone through and will continue to go through.
Some of us signed up for the toughest trials this life had to offer of us. Your trials humble the rest of us and keep us focused.
i pray for your family everyday. you are an inspiration to all of us in the faithful way you are dealing with such a tragic loss. your family will always be in my prayers. much love.
ReplyDeleteThank YOU! Thank you both for your amazing examples of strength and testimony. I can't even imagine what you must be feeling right now. My heart aches for your loss. We came to the funeral yesterday (I'm the Rolfe's oldest daughter.), and we left wanting to be better. Your grandpa's talk was amazing. We were so touched and comforted by the doctrine that he shared. Although we're strangers, you've (all 3 of you!) touched our lives forever. We feel for you and we are still praying for you. Thank you again for showing us how to have faith and remain strong in the midst of incredible trial.
ReplyDeleteWith love,
The Olavesons
I just love your family soo much! My heart aches for you guys. I also LOVE that scripture and it has carried me thru sooo many trials. I also love the poem "footprints". I KNOW I have been carried at times and I hope you have been too. Our experiences these past few weeks have changed my life forever and I am blessed by knowing you guys and dear sweet Preslee. You two amaze me and I thank you for your strong testimonies! One moment at a time. I haven't stopped praying for your family. Love-Hayley Jensen
ReplyDeleteI continue to pray so hard for your family. I made sure to be by myself during the hours of Preslee's funeral so that I could pray for your family. I hear that it was a beautiful and moving ceremony. Something a parent should never have to be subjected to. It's obvious you have a family with a grounded faith and that you all share a strong bond. God bless all of you.
ReplyDeleteWhen you're up to it, look up this song on youtube. It has always touched me like none other. It's called "Serenaded by Angels" by Kirk Talley. It talks of the angels escorting our loved ones to heaven.
In part:
She went to sleep one night
never here to awake again
but everything was alright
between her and Him
so she awoke in heaven's courtyard
free from pain within
and the angels gathered round her
and they took her by the hand.....
Serenaded by angels
up to the throne
seranaded by angels
finally at home
surrounded by praises to the king
'welcome to paradise'
the angels will sing.........
May the Lord bless you and wrap you tightly with His love.
Hi Ashley and Patrick. I am an employee at PCMC (operating room) and caught wind of little Preslee's story on the day she passed away. Being at the hospital frequently, you have to not let things like this bother you or else it will tear you down until you just can't do it anymore. But, in this case, I got that familiar pit in my stomach as I heard what happened and thought of my own 18-month-old baby at home. My heart breaks for you. As I've read your blog, I am so impressed by your strength. I know Heavenly Father is with you, I can tell just through your words. I am so sorry for your loss--my family has been praying for you every night. I've been thinking about your family every single day. Your story has affected me very much. May the Lord continue to be with you as you continue to take one day at a time. Stick together and let this experience bring you two close to one another. Families are Forever.
ReplyDeletePat and Ashley,
ReplyDeleteI was referred to your site by someone who thought I could help you, and you have helped me. I understand the ache, the pain and the missing Preslee that you are feeling right now. I lost my 15 year old son. The mission/road you have been called to go down is not easy, but know that you are not alone. So many people love you that you are aware of and even not aware of. The Lord promised us he would not leave us comfortless. This I know to be true. You are the parents of a beautiful little girl...forever and ever! I know you don't know me, but I will be here for you. I have some things I would like to share with you, do you have an e-mail? Mine is momof8@beyondbb.com. I live in St.George,Ut. Sometimes you just need someone who has walked the walk. I can share in your journey and I can be there for you to listen and I can understand. Thank you for sharing your story and for your strong testimonies. The Gospel is true and yes, Families ARE together FOREVER!
many hugs and prayers are sent your way!
Marcie Ogilvie
You don't know me but yet we share a bond that I wish we didn't... My little Bridger was stillborn 2 months ago. Although it is not quite the same, the loss is the same. I'm so sorry. I know it hurts. Time passing has been helping. Thank you for sharing the scripture. I needed it today. :)
ReplyDelete*Hugs*
Alison
I can't believe you are thanking us... we all should be thanking you!! Your testimonies have strengthened mine so greatly. My heart still aches for you ever since I read your first heart breaking post. You have taught me to love a complete stranger. I truly love all three of you and wish I could have had the beautiful blessing of being able to meet Princess Preslee. Never forget what a strength you were for Preslee and for all of us around the world. From Utah I just wanted to say Thank YOU for sharing your beautiful family with all of us and allowing us to wish you the very best and offer our love and support in your healing journey. Patrick, Ashley and Angel Preslee, you are in our prayers. Thank you for teaching us to walk a little slower, hug a little longer and smile a little more.
ReplyDeleteLove,
Mitch, Linsey & little Kodie.
I think You are the one that I need to thank. You are amazing! You are always on my mind. What a humbling experience it has been to watch your faith in The Father and our Savior. Your little girl has shown me more about the gospel and Gods love than I ever could have thought. She has done an amazing work, and you have too. I hope some day I can tell you, Patrick and your sweet Preslee how grateful I am for this amazing service. Isn't it great to know that she has finished her work perfectly, that she doesn't need to be tested anymore. What an honor it must be, to be the mother of such a valiant spirit. You will continue to be in our family's prayers. Thank you once more for your amazing example and for sharing this with us.
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing your sweet testimony!!! The spirit has touched me tonight while I was reading your post. May you continue to be blessed by our Father in Heaven at this most difficult time in your life.
ReplyDeleteI am so glad you feel and recognize the support you are receiving from so many prayers being offered in your behalf. It is pretty incredible huh!
ReplyDeleteOne other scripture that helped me when I was i where you are was Joshua 1:9 -- it is actually the YM/YW theme scripture this year. It was what the Lord said to Joshua just after his brother Moses died and now he was left behind to carry the children of Israel into the promised land. I felt I could identify with how Joshua must have felt on a personal level of being the one left here on earth that had to deal with the grief and loss. The Lord said to him. "Be strong and of a good courage. Be not afraid neither be thou dismayed. For the Lord thy God is with the withersoever thou goest."
Much love and many prayers,
Stephanie Waite
www.adailyscoop.blogspot.com
I hope you and Patrick continue to find comfort in the days ahead. My heart aches for you.
ReplyDeleteThe way to treat a Mother who is grieving
Please Be Gentle
By Jill B. Englar
Please be gentle with me for I am grieving.
The sea I swim in is a lonely one
and the shore seems miles away.
Waves of despair numb my soul
as I struggle through each day.
My heart is heavy with sorrow.
I want to shout and screamand repeatedly ask ‘why?’
At times, my grief overwhelms me
and I weep bitterly,so great is my loss.
Please don’t turn away
or tell me to move on with my life.
I must embrace my pain
before I can begin to heal.
Companion me through tears
and sit with me in loving silence.
Honor where I am in my journey,
not where you think I should be.
Listen patiently to my story,
I may need to tell it over and over again.
It’s how I begin to grasp the enormity of my loss.
Nurture me through the weeks and months ahead.
Forgive me when I seem distant and inconsolable.
A small flame still burns within my heart,
and shared memories may trigger
both laughter and tears.
I need your support and understanding.
There is no right or wrong way to grieve.
I must find my own path.
Please, will you walk beside me?
Don’t worry about making me cry.
My thoughts and prayers are still with you, and will continue to be during the difficult days ahead.
ReplyDeleteWe will continue to pray for your little family, you have showed us so much courage and faith and know we love you!
ReplyDeleteAt a time when you should be lifted up by others it seems you are lifting others more. Preslee's valiant little spirit is clear to see in all of her pictures; and your valiant spirit shows clear through your words. We have prayed that you would be held tight in the arms of our loving Heavenly Father & his son Jesus Christ; and also that you would be given what is needed to help your family get through this. It gives me comfort to hear that those prayers have been answered. That you have been held tight, and that blessings have continually been sent to your family. Thank you for sharing your story & your strength with others.
ReplyDeletethank you for your sweet examples of love and faith. you have strengthened my testimony so much and now more than ever i am so grateful for the sealing powers of the priesthood. families will be together forever. i have a 16 month old little girl who is blonde and blue and resembles your little preslee so much. throughout this last week i have looked at her with an even deeper love because of you. we snuggle a little longer and say i love you a little more often....we use softer words when shes naughty because of you. we have a deeper appreciation for the gift of parenthood our Father in Heaven has entrusted us with. may you know how many lives have been touched by your little girl. you are in our thoughts and prayers. be strong and rejoice in knowing youll see her again someday.
ReplyDeletelove *the pehrsons*
I found out about your family via the Make It Love It blog. You are complete strangers to me and yet I sit here crying my eyes out reading about your family's recent loss. You are amazingly strong and positive. This blows my mind. You've been through a nightmare and still stay strong. Your daughter was very lucky. You are inspiring.
ReplyDeleteLove to you and your family from ours here in Oklahoma! You have been in our prayers. May peace be with you all until you see beautiful little Preslee again! Love the Griffin Family
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for sharing your beautiful testimony. Although I do not know you, I have been following your story, and have been deeply touched. Preslee, and your family have touched and changed more lives in one week than most people will do in thier entire lives. My prayers are still with your sweet family.
ReplyDeleteAs I read your blog my whole heart goes out to you and your family. I too am a mother that was at Primary Children's Hospital. After ERMIC we were able to fly with our son and got to spend those last hours with him. I know it is so hard, but with a Loving Heavenly Father and his wonderful plan He will help you get through all the emptiness and loneliness that you are feeling. Always go to Him and stay close with your husband. The two of them together will help you through this so sad and trying time of losing such a special sweet spirit. You guys are on the right track of looking at this as a spiritual experience. Go to the temple alot and you will truely be amazed at how close your little angel is to you. Hang in there, much love to you both.
ReplyDeleteDear Ashley and Patrick,
ReplyDeleteI heard about you through facebook from Crystal Fultz, who said she met you once at church.My heart has been breaking for you since I found out about your little Preslee.
I lost my 4 month old son to SIDS in March. He was also my only child. I know about the instant change and loneliness that comes when life is now so different, when you cannot enjoy the physical benefits of being a mom. But I also have learned about the Atonement of Jesus Christ and the healing power it has. I didn't understand it before. (Mosiah 24:13-14)
But I have been praying for peace to come for your family -- that after each heartbreak which surely will return throughout this healing process, that ultimately, you wil be lifted by all the angels, spirits, heavenly father and Jesus, and your Preslee, who is beside you during this time. I promise you, she is there. She will not leave you in your time of need. I have a testimony of this because of my own son.
While i'm sure you have many people supporting you, if you'd ever like to talk about anything, as one mother to another, feel free to contact me.
With love,
Erica Kiefer
aiyana_kiefer@yahoo.com
Provo, Utah
(Your music tribute to Preslee is so very beautiful.)
you both are certainly people to admire. still sending my love, prayers, and strength your way. god bless your home!
ReplyDeleteI don't know how you're doing it, Ashely and Patrick. I have such a heavy heart for you. My heart sinks each time I come to your blog and see all of the beautiful memories you created with your angel Preslee. I'm so so sorry. Love, sara
ReplyDeleteWe are still thinking about you guys, and praying for you. Thanks for inspiring my husband and I-as well as the rest of our Allen family. We are better people because of you. WE love you and look up to you! thanks for your example..we have learned from you :) Good luck you guys!
ReplyDeleteYou two are wonderful people. You continue to amaze me with your strength and faith. You deserve every bit of help that your recieve. You will continue to be in my prayers!
ReplyDeleteSo, so sorry for your loss. Thank you for taking the time to teach the rest of us what you are learning through this trial. May God continue to bless you (and I know He will!).
ReplyDeleteI don't know you, but I want you to know that I continue to pray for you and your family.
ReplyDeletePatrick & Ashley,
ReplyDeleteYour family has been in my prayers threw the past couple of weeks, I am so sorry for your loss. Little Preslee is now an Angle living above to watch over, and protect you both. May you have peace in your hearts & never forget that her spirit lives on.
I am so, so sorry for your loss of sweet Preslee. She was absolutely beautiful! We pray that Heavenly Father continue to give you peace and comfort through this difficult time.
ReplyDeleteThe Davis Family
New Orleans
We love you guys so much. Please know that we are here for you. We want to help in whatever way we can.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great scripture! I have read it many a time when things have gotten hard, but what you guys are going through has to be the hardest! You have obviously touched so many people and are such a great example to me. Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with you, know you are loved and we have been thinking of you guys since we first heard of your story all the way from North Carolina. Lots of love to you both!
ReplyDeleteAshley, I am amazed by your faith. This story just grabbed me when I first saw it on Molly Jackson's blog. I have had a constant prayer in my heart for you and your sweet family since then. I think of sweet Preslee each time I look at my little 2 yr old twin girls. Again, thank you for sharing your story with complete strangers. I hope that our prayers are helping you in this time of need.
ReplyDeleteThank you!
We love you and miss you guys already! We will be up shortly!
ReplyDeleteI don't know you or your family I also came across your story from someone on facebook. I am amazed at how strong you all seem to be. I do not think I could be as strong as you and your husband are. I wish I knew your secret to being able to handle this. I do not understand how you can be so calm and understanding. It truly amazes me. How do you do it? You guys are soo amazing.
ReplyDeleteMy heart is so heavy for you both -- but I know you'll see her again and be with her for eternity. I pray that you will always be able to feel our Savior's love at the very moment you need it.
ReplyDeleteMuch love,
amy
I am so sorry to hear about Preslee's passing, I was praying that she would be ok. You do not know me, I left a comment last week about loosing one of our twins my son, Ethan. Well I was hanging out with my sister-in-law, Gennifer Newman, who says she knows you guys and told me that your little girl had passed away. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your dear family during this difficult time. Thank you for your testimony and love for our Savior. And like you, we can't wait for a joyful reunion with our little boy too.
ReplyDeleteMy heart aches for you and your family! I can't imagine your pain. I'm so sorry. Praying for you!
ReplyDeleteYou don't know me and I don't know you but I came across your blog somehow and have been checking on you guys. I admire your strength to say the least. You must be in agony and for that, I am truly sorry.I don't understand why God feels the need to take these babies away so suddenly.
ReplyDeleteCame across your blog on facebook. I don't know you.. but I have been praying for you all. I can't stop thinking about you guys and little Preslee. You seem very strong. Please keep trusting in the lord. My heart is crying for you both! Your daughter was so beautiful. I'm so sorry for you loss!
ReplyDeleteOur family is also keeping you in our prayers! You are such a great example of strength & courage...we pray you will continue to be strengthened & comforted at this time. Your little preslee has definitely touch our hearts!!
ReplyDeleteI came across your blog on a facebook link. May you always embrace the gospel so you will always have the peace the gospel brings...I am so sorry for the loss of your beautiful angel. May God bless you.
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry for your loss! Your faith has been such a wonderful example to me and my family. I hope you know that the Savior knows exactly how you feel and you can always turn to him for peace and comfort, because he can do that perfectly. (Alma 7:11-13) My thoughts and prayers continue to be with you and your family!
ReplyDeleteMy heart continues to ache for your family. I admire your strength and know that you are truly amazing people to have been blessed with an angel so perfect that she didn't have to prove herself. She will forever be your little one and you will see her again. I too am grateful for Jesus Atoning sacrifice so we may all be with our loved ones forever! My prayers and thoughts will continue to be with you!
ReplyDeletePatrick and Ashley,
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful little girl you both have and will have for all eternity. I just cried when I read your story and as I looked through your blog. My heart ache's that you two have to go through such pain so young in your lives and early in your marriage. I pray that you two can find comfort in each other and help each other through your pain. I am inspired by the faith that you have in our savior and the knowledge that he loves you both and will help you through this difficult time. Your sweet little Preslee obviously had a special mission on this earth and it appears to me that she fulfilled it with such strength, courage and love. It also shows me that our Heavenly Father knew that there couldn't have been two greater parents for this beautiful little girl. My thoughts and prayers will be with you both and with your families who I am sure are hurting right along with you.
Hi Pat & Ashley. I just wanted to tell you that since I heard your story & read your blog & looked at your pictures you have been on my mind. I think of my own little girl when I see yours & I can't imagine what you must be going through. I just sit here & cry & cry thinking of you guys. It breaks my heart. I am in awe of your strength & positive attitudes. You are an amazing couple & I will pray for you, which I don't do very often so I know he'll listen :) Keep your chins up. I'm thinking of you!!
ReplyDeleteYour faith and testimonies have touched my life. You are in my thoughts and prayers. You are so strong. I know, as well as you do, that you will see and finish raising your daughter someday.
ReplyDeleteI live in Nebraska but came across your blog from another site. I have to tell you prayed and wept as reading your blog. Please know my family and I all said prayers for you and your family. We kept little Preslee in our prayers and we will now continue to keep you all in our prayers too. What a beautiful little girl. Love and good thoughts to you.
ReplyDeleteYour family will continue to be in our thoughts and prayers. You continue to show amazing faith and strength in these difficult and trying times. I know that you will see that beautiful little girl again and what and AWESOME experience that will be.
ReplyDeleteLove Bryan and Megan
Ashley, I am just so amazed at how wonderful and amazing and strong you and Patrick are, You and your family will continue to be in our prayers! Ashley this passed week and half have changed me so much I realized what I needed to be able to do to live my family again someday, It is all because of you, pat and baby Preslee! Thank you for showing me what I needed to do! If you ever need anything I am here, I no we were not even close to each other in school but I will do anything I can to help you and Patrick out! Thank you again and God Bless
ReplyDeleteYour little family continues to amaze me. I have been so moved, so touched, and so humbled by your story. Thank you so much for showing us the true meaning of faith. I have never cared so much about a family I don't even know. When times are hard, I hope you will remember how many people out there in your world, and in the internet world, care about you.
ReplyDeleteKristi Hartman
Not a day goes by that I don't think of and hurt for you and Pat, as well as the rest of your family.
ReplyDeleteI was looking at your blog the other day when my husband came home from work and asked what music was playing. I told him that it was sweet Preslee! I just can't seem to pull myself away from your blog these days, it's the only one I've checked regularly in months! My husband and I had talked about your sweet Preslee and how sad we are for your family. It wasn't until he walked past me as I was scrolling through blog posts, re-reading everything in "disbelief" that he stopped, and said, "Oh No! I know him!" (meaning Pat) All chocked up He said, "he is the nicest guy at Just Sports". My husband delivers for UPS and I guess they have had some communication and he thinks the world of Pat!
Then, we both cried together. We truly hope you two are healing and doing ok. As I go throughout my days I am thinking of you constantly, Ashley, and wondering how you are coping with your loss.
Dear Ashley,
ReplyDeleteI don't know you and I literally live thousands of miles away from you and I don't have any children of my own, but for whatever reason, I've felt the need to follow your blog the past few weeks. I just wanted to let you know, from the few things I know about your life, that you must be some courageous, mature, and good-hearted young woman. Maybe it's your daughter's legacy that people see this in you. Please keep that goodness in your heart and may you find peace in the days, and weeks, and years that lie ahead.
Mosiah 14:4 "Surely he has borne our griefs and carried or sorrows". Matthew 11:28 "Come unto him all ye that labour and are heavy laden and I will give you rest." Joshua 1:9 "Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee withersoever thou goest." And I know Preslee is with you always too. My mind has been at work ever since I heard your story, pondering the plan of salvation and the atonement. I have been searching the sciptures and praying more earnestly than ever. These three scriptures have been running over and over in my mind. As a mother of a ten month old little girl, I cry for you and mourn your loss. My heart has never ached so much or felt more heavy. I will contine to pray for you always. Never has the death of a stranger touched my life in such an immeasurable way. I have come to understand the power of the atonement so much more fully. My life will never be the same because of little Preslee. I am so moved by your srength and understanding of God's will. I wish so much that I could take away your pain. Someday, through Christ's atoning sacrifice, you will be completely healed and you will be with Preslee again. What comfort that knowledge brings. What a sweet and valiant spirit she is. You are special people to have her in your family. Stay strong together. Preslee needs you to. In this world there are so many people who just give up at the sight of adversity. You are facing in my mind the hardest trial imaginable and you are forging onward with strength. You exemplify Joshua 1:9 perfectly. Thank you for staying true to the things you know and thank you for being such great examples to the world. I hope our paths cross here in Idaho someday. It would be an honor to know you. And someday in the future, I want to meet Preslee. May the Lord bless and comfort you and your family always.
ReplyDeleteI've been doing a lot more reading today on the Millenium and resurrection in the scriptures, ensign articles, and books written by the brethren. I just read Elder Bruce R. McConkie's "Salvation of Little Children." How wonderful to know that when Preslee is resurrected, you will be able to continue raising her right where you left off, but in a world with no sorrow and no evil. A world where she will never shed another tear. A world with Christ living and reigning in the flesh. Wow! What an opportunity to look forward to!!
ReplyDeleteYou don't know me, but I just had to leave a comment. I am so saddened at your great loss. May Heavenly Father hold you in the palm of his hand and comfort and carry you at this time. Thank you for your example of faith.
ReplyDeletePat and Ashley,
ReplyDeleteYou have inspired me to become a better mother, wife, daughter, daughter in law, and friend. You don't know me, but I feel very close to you. I am from Rigby and I have a little boy close to the same age as Preslee. Your strength, courage and testimonies have touched me in so many ways. I know this trial has been very difficult, and will comtinue to be difficult for you, but I also know that our Heavenly Father will not give us trials that we can not handle. You two are so strong, strong enough to handle the hardest of trials. You must be incredible people for our Father in Heaven to trust you enough and know you are strong enough to be dealt this trial. Thank You for sharing your story with so many. It is truly inspiring. I hope that one day I can be more like you. strong, courageous, faithful and loving. Your darling little Preslee is at HOME with her Father in Heaven, I know that. Families Can (and will) be together Forever. What a miraculous blessing!! My prayers and thoughts have been with you and your family from day 1 and will continue to be. May the Lord bless you.
With Love,
Karalee
I don't know you and your sweet Preslee, but I am weeping. I am so very sorry. I will pray for your family. I know we are given trials that we usually don't understand. I don't even have words to express my grief for you, complete strangers, and yet I feel somehow connected to you through your blog. You are a wonderful couple.
ReplyDeleteI'm so sorry for your loss. I wept while reading the story of your little Preslee.
ReplyDeleteWe're praying for you and your family.
Dear Ashley and Patrick,
ReplyDeleteI don't know how I came to find your blog, but I did. I read what has happened to your family and I felt the urge to write to you to let you know you are not alone.
In May we lost my brother-in-law (27 years young) to a tragic car accident. Somehow he survived the crash and was rushed to the hospital with severe swelling of the brain and other internal injuries. The internal injuries healed with surgeries and we had hope. Unfortunately the swelling of his brain was too much and eventually he left us.
As sad as the situation was, we felt fortunate to have that week with him in the hospital to be with him and celebrate him. We laughed and we cried all while holding on to a piece of his body hoping that our presence would help heal him. We were fortunate enough to be able to grant his wish of being an organ donor. They were able to give his heart, pancreas, 2 kidneys and his liver to 5 people who needed them.
I have told my boys that Uncle Greg lives on in the bodies of these other people and he will always watch over us. The butterfly is the symbol of organ donors who have left us and when you see one, it is your loved one checking up on you. The weekend after he passed and his organs were successfully in their new homes, we saw a butterfly at one of my son's baseball games. It was Greg. I know somewhere up there, Greg is watching over us and I'm sure he has found Preslee up there because kids flock to him for no reason - he was a football coach, a gym teacher, he ran a summer camp, and touched the lives of so many children that I know he has found her.
So when you see a butterfly, think of Greg and Preslee and how they are watching over you. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Michele
Hi Sullengers,
ReplyDeleteI've had you in my periphery since Preslee's accident, and I've just learned of your sad news. I'm not known to comment on blogs or to share things with strangers, but I wanted to let you know that at least one person (two, with my husband) understands how you feel. This comment is not about me, but we also buried our first baby a little more than a year ago. And I wanted to let you know when you have your hardest moments and wonder how you will get through them, just know that you will. Things do get better. Time is a great healer. And Pat, you will always be a father. Always. Your child doesn't even need to be alive for that to be true. It is an eternal role, and you will teach and care for Preslee again. Maybe my baby boy can go give your baby girl a hug. I would give one to you both if I could, too.
If you find yourself in need of support outside of your known influences, in a week, a month, a year, two years, and think a stranger can help, I can be that stranger, because I've been there. Know for now that you're in my prayers. Preslee will never be far. Much love to you both.
You can find me here: sprouted.wordpress.com.
I saw this and thought of you.
ReplyDelete“To understand the meaning of death, we must appreciate the purpose of life. The dim light of belief must yield to the noonday sun of revelation, by which we know that we lived before our birth into mortality.”
Thomas S. Monson