Women are Fantastic Friday #2

Todays fantastic woman is a very special person in my life, whom I have known for nearly nine years.  She is partially responsible for the Brit and I meeting each other, though several people had unintentional hands in that one.  This is a girl who will do anything for anyone and not ask for a thing in return.

This person has always been wonderful but what has made her fantastic is the hand that life has dealt her over the past year.  Her husband cheated on her because he had no idea what an incredible gift he had in her.  When confronted, he lied and promised to stop conversing with this other woman, and when he was caught once again, Shell rightly kicked him out.  It was the hardest thing she had probably ever done in her life.

The months that followed brought many tears, insecurities, feelings of worthlessness and an overall despair as she wondered how she would ever make it emotionally and financially.  Yet, even as Shelley wondered if she would ever be "normal" again, I could easily see the subtle growth of tiny wings that she never knew she possessed.  From somewhere deep inside of herself, Shell began to show an inner strength that was never there before and more recently, I get the feeling that she is growing much more comfortable in her own skin.  She is discovering things about herself that I don't think she ever knew before and is realizing that she really is strong and worthy and that she can be defined as a whole on her own as opposed to being part of another person.

She walks with a stronger faith now as well and is learning that she is not always given the answers on a timeline that suits.    Shelley is an incredible mother, a loving daughter and a giving, and caring friend.



Shell, on the left, with Lisa.

And you know what else?  Shell's birthday is this Sunday so it was only fitting that this be her week to be celebrated as a fantastic woman.  Shell, I love you and even when you don't believe in yourself, know that I believe in you.  You'll get through and you have an incredible, blessing filled future ahead of you.

For your birthday, please consider this your coupon from Lisa and I for one afternoon or night on the town, our treat.  Whether it be lunch and a yarn shop crawl, or dinner and a movie, it's on us.  You just let us know when you're free and we'll  make it happen!

Oh, and Happy Birthday!