It seems like yesterday when I brought you home from St. Joe's hospital. My beautiful bundle of joy; A tiny little 5lb l2oz miracle. You were such a petite little baby, and you remained petite your whole life.
You were the best baby a mother could hope for, happy and content most of the time! Throughout your childhood, cousins Alisa and Chris were always nearby. The three of you were inseparable, more like siblings than cousins. I can see all three of you running in the backyard, with Scooter, our little white Maltese, chasing after you three...laughing and giggling, not a care in the world.
There were so many wonderful memories that I will cherish forever. The trips to Glenwood Springs and camping at Miracle Mile are some of my favorites! One memory that sticks in my mind is when we were all coming back from Miracle Mile. Bill and Ursula were ahead of us, and we were following behind in our RV. Shelly was leaning on the RV door and the door FLEW open and Shelly flew with it, hanging on for dear life! Shelly's screaming, I'm screaming and Dad pulled over-all the while, Bill and Ursula wondering what the heck was going on! It's a good thing Shelly was such a strong kid!!
All three of you kids loved to visit grandma and grandpa's and, especially, loved grandma's delicious German baked donuts and coffee cake! I hope you are enjoying some of those delicious treats right now!
I remember you and Alisa taking piano lessons from our family friend Susan. You and Alisa were so cute at the recitals and you both did such a great job.
It is amazing how fast the years flew by-all the loving memories will fill my heart forever.
Thank you Shelly, for standing by my side, throughout your dad's illness. The trips we all took together were wonderful. Your dad and I were so happy that we shared that time as a family. Our cruise to Jamaica was so special.
Your dad and I were so proud of the woman you became and what you stood for. Thank you for honoring your dad by running the marathon. Once you put your mind to something, you always accomplished it!
You were a natural athlete. Gymnastics, cheerleading, hiking, biking, skiing...you name it, you were good at it! I remember when you and I took a bike ride a few years ago. We were riding along the creek bike path. I turned too quickly and down I went. I almost landed in the creek! And of course, there was our hike in Sedona. You, Ursula and I hiked a beautiful trail. On the hike back, I lost my footing and down I tumbled...needless to say Shelly, you got your athletic ability from your DAD!!!
I am so grateful that you found the love of your life, Darrell Smith. It may have taken you a long while to find each other, but you were absolutely perfect for each other. You and Darrell were so very fortunate to experience such a deep and wonderful love. And Darrell, you were just like family from the first time we met you!
I know that you were welcomed into heaven with loving arms by your Savior Jesus Christ, your dad, grandparents and many others. I also know, honey, that you were heartbroken because you didn't get to have children. This pain consumed you...so my dearest Shelly, I know that you are surrounded by all of your children that were waiting patiently for their "mama" to arrive in heaven.
I love you sweetheart and I miss you so much. Until we meet again, and I know we will.
Love, - Mom