Today is my favorite kind of post to do because it is when KVO names a piece of our collection after a special person. I love writing about people and highlighting the importance of who they are in the world. Since today is Veteran’s Day, we thought it would be fitting to honor a veteran named Shelly Smith. I met Shelly 9 years ago when I first moved to Darien. From the first smiles and words to each other, I immediately knew that Shelly was a woman of substance. Have you ever met a person who just radiates kindness, compassion, strength, intelligence and calmness? That’s Shelly. We have had many talks on each other’s doorsteps as we pick up our kids from play dates. She is one of the most grounded women I have known. She seems to be very clear as to what is most important in life. I treasure the times we are able to talk about life, kids, and work because Shelly is very present when she is in conversation which is rare these days since we all seem to be running in different directions. After a couple years of being in Darien, I went to my first Veteran’s Day program at our elementary school where the school invites Veterans. I saw Shelly on the stage with the other veterans and up to this point I had no idea she had been in the military and it was at that moment I was profoundly moved by this remarkable woman. Shelly was a first lieutenant in the United States Air Force where she worked as a labor and delivery nurse. So, Shelly, as a Veteran, as an incredible mom, as a nurse, and as a kind, loving friend, we want to honor you and present you with the Shelly necklace…..