Ava

A chirpy young girl who lived life freely, finding joy with every person she met. Being the first born in her family, she showed great affection and love to her parents and seven siblings. Not once did she leave their side when they were in need.

Ava in the middle holding a bouquet

Marriage was in her cards at a young age - that bestowed her with two beautiful children. She worked hard for her money to give them a beautiful life. Now and then, she faced health issues, but that did not deter her from living life with much zest.

When life took away her precious daughter, she picked herself up and lived for her son. Her son was her blessing, her beautiful daughter-in-law and four loving grandkids were her bonus...her life was once again complete!

The best part of her, were the stories she told...stories of her many adventures growing up. Not only was she a good story-teller, she was a fabulous cook. Noh Hiang, a nonya delicacy was something she introduced to her family. It went on to became her signature dish for Deepavali year after year.

In her final days, moving around freely became a challenge. Even then, she continued to show the same bravery till the day came for her to say goodbye. Before she left, she took a promise from me...A promise to be a loving aunt to her grandkids.

Today, I honor Puvanum (Ava) - my beautiful aunt,who was also my mother. My pillar of strength in my growing years. We shared many happy memories together and losing her was my greatest loss.

9 years have passed and I still think about her....about all the good times we shared.

My grandma, Ava, Kasturi, Yakshini, Saranya, Avaneesh and our neighbour's child

All that she has done, groomed me to be the Aunt I am to my beautiful nieces and nephews. Today, if I'm a big fuzzy ball of love, she was one of the reasons for it and I love her for that!! 

Disclaimer - There are many others who have contributed to me being this way...but that's a story to share for another time...so don't get upset people!!

My beautiful angels!!

Saku(Saranya) my baby!!

Kas(Kasturi) - my biggest monster!!

Just the four of us!!

Avi (Avaneesh) ..only rose among the thorns!

Bubu Darling (Yakshini)

To love and be loved is a beautiful feeling. Hold on to your loved ones tight, drown them with love, big bear hugs, sloppy kisses and mushy sweet nothings. They may act as if they despise it, but deep down...they look forward to when you will do it again!! ;)

Cheers to a beautiful day! 

I was tricked into taking this ride!!