Brian and I attended Shelley's funeral today. I am sad beyond belief for Evan, Emily and Jessica Mann.
Shelley, Evan, Brian and I met in July 1994 at our Abrazo orientation and have remained friends ever since that weekend. Shelley was the first person to call us when we came home with our family in October 1994. We have celebrated the births and adoptions of their two daughters. We were honored to be asked to write a reference letter for them when they were on their journey to adopting their second daughter, Jessica. They moved to NJ a few years ago (but about an hour or so away from us) and we did manage to have Cassie and Emily meet a few times. I have posted a few statuses on facebook without mentioning Shelley's name because I am so heartbroken about her passing.
For those who don't have facebook, this is my current status. "A beautiful life has come to an end, she died as she lived, everyone's friend. In our hearts a memory will always be kept, of one we loved and will never forget." Shelley was my dear friend and I will miss her tremendously. <3