Once upon a time, back in my previous life as a figure skater, a very special woman entered me and my family’s lives. I was probably about 10 when Shelley started coaching me and little did I know then that she wasn’t going to be just a coach but another member to my family. When Shelley first enetered our lives she had one daughter who would often play in my parents basement while we were at the skating rink. I remember vividly, coming home to find Alyx still playing away and her mom telling her it was time to clean up….then they would sing “the clean up song” together and put all the toys away….because that’s what Shelley does, she makes the most mundane things special. I have learned so much from her, and not just how to do a mean double lutz, but lessons about life, love and family. I have so many letters, notes and cards saved that Shelley wrote me over the years and they still bring tears to my eyes. She has a way of using words like noone else does, she has the gift of encouragement and does such an amazing job using that gift. If you haven’t gotten the picture already, I love love love this woman!
Years later, i’m not a figure skater anymore, but Shelley is just as important in my life as when I was. Today Shelley has three beautiful daughters, Alyx, Kenzie and Danika….they are the most polite, kind, happy and talkative girls. I loved getting to spend time with them this week,the relationships between sisters are so special! Our time shooting was very short….we got rained out at TinkerTown after about 10 pictures, but the evening was still pretty special just visiting over ice cream.
Bright and early tomorrow Alyx leaves for her second tour with Disney on Ice and her family and so many others will miss her like crazy! Alyx you’ve grown up so much since the little 3 year old that used to play in our basement….i’m so proud of you for living your dream!! I can’t wait until the show comes to Winnipeg….i’m guessing that i’ll be fighting for front row with the hoards of other people who love you so much!!
