JAMESTOWN, N.C. (WGHP) — Most of us throw oyster shells away but not Virginia Washburn. “Even the crazy shaped [shells] have purpose,” said Washburn, who makes them shine. “Even though they are imperfect, they are perfect just like we are.” About a year ago, she started Perfectly Imperfect, giving decorative life to oyster shells. “I bleach them twice,” she said. “Typically, do three coats of paint.” A nurse and teacher by day, at night she finds the shell’s beauty by making them into just about everything from natives to Christmas ornaments. “Last Christmas, I couldn’t keep up,” she said. Many of her ornament creations have a special story behind them. She sends some of them to people going through a tough time like fighting cancer. “Just want people to know they are being thought about ... someone is praying for them, and they are not alone,” she said.