My blood is Kim, but my heart is Bellows.

This blog has primarily been about my journey "home" and the birth parent search that kind of happened in the mix.

But, today I'd like to pay respect and honor the people who are my family. The people who chose me.  The people who have sacrificed for me and the people who have supported me both through my life's celebrations and also my poor decisions.

Happy 39th Adoption Anniversary, John and Bonnie Bellows! 

I can't tell you enough wonderful things about these two people.  

My dad is a balls to the wall get it done kind of man.  He takes Amateur Radio to the next level and is an attorney that I'd never want to face off against in court.  He is the quarterback of debates, a loyal man, and he will stop at nothing to protect his family.  He is passionate about anything he takes on and one of the people I most look up to.

My Mom is one of the kindest women you could come across.  Almost to a fault.  She has the patience of a saint...which is a trait you must have when you marry a Bellows character and teach High School English Lit for as many years as she did.  ;)  She's the kind of grandmother that every kids hopes for and a woman who would care for her sister in her home until her dying day.

You can guess which one I take after most of all... it probably isn't hard to figure out.  But, I know that both of them have helped mold me into the person I am today and I am ever thankful for their love and the life they gave me.  

Beyond that...my extended family (Uncles and Aunts, cousins, my sister) are a mix of a little bit of crazy and a lotta bit of love.  And they've all played a role in who I am today.  I was fortunate enough to have a close knit family and grew up with my cousins...even the ones out of state.  And I am thankful for all of them.

I know that my journey this year has not just been emotional for me...I can imagine it's been emotional for my family is well.  But, hopefully they know that no matter where this search ends and no matter where this journey takes me... My blood is Kim, but my heart is always Bellows.

I love you, Mom and Dad!  Thank you for giving me this wonderful life...

You may think you're the lucky ones, but clearly I was the lucky one. xo

(and Happy Birthday to my little sis, Amy! I love you sweetie!)

(Auntie MJ, Mom, Amy, little me, and Auntie Thea. I'm guessing 1981'ish)