1.12.2012

My Journey {Adoption}

Hey friends!

Today I'm going to share my adoption story. I can't believe I haven't shared it yet! It is somewhat scary to throw this out for the whole world wide web to see, but if I can touch or inspire just one person then I'll be so happy that I shared.

I just want to start by saying that I know each persons adoption experience is completely different and unique. This is just mine. In this story, you will see me refer to my birth mom (Angie) and my Mom. Just so there is no confusion, my Mom is my adopted mother who raised me.

Moving on...I was adopted when I was a baby right out of the hospital. My Mom and Dad weren't able to have kids themselves unfortunately and decided they wanted to adopt. My Dad's good friend and attorney set them up with my birth mom and the rest was history. I remember my mom always saying how badly she wanted me and how often she would pray for me. That I was specifically chosen for her and my Dad. Boy, oh boy, did I get lucky with them as my parents. My parents told me I was adopted when I was pretty young and were always very open about it and helping me understand it, but I never really 'got it' until much later.

This may be because my Mom was diagnosed with breast cancer when I was a child. She was in and out of cancer treatments most of my adolescent life and I didn't know life any differently. I never felt out of place with my parents or that they weren't my true parents. In fact, it was quite the opposite. Since I was the only child and they had prayed for me for so long, they spoiled me rotten. Naturally! I felt so much love from them everyday and they were the most wonderful parents to me. My Mom was the most incredible mother...she did anything and everything for me. She never complained about the cards she was dealt and all she wanted was to see me grow up. She had the sweetest soul - she volunteered at our local hospital and even initiated multiple cancer support groups. I remember when my Mom got really sick, a lady showed up in hospice to visit her. She drove 3 hours and had never met her before, but told me how much my Mom inspired her and kept her going to fight off her cancer. I thought that was the coolest thing...a complete stranger coming to visit my Mom. She was a true angel here on earth who had more people look up to her than anyone I've ever met. I never truly realized how lucky I was to have her in my life, and to be her daughter, until after she passed. My Mom passed away right after my 16th birthday when she was 49 years old. She may not physically be here anymore, but the life lessons she has taught me, will always be present. I will never forget the mother/person she was, and I hope one day I can be just as loving to my children. I'm incredibly thankful for the journals my Mom left me (my love notes in a box, as she called them). They are a constant reminder of her zest and passion for life and her love for my Dad and myself.

I dealt with her death like most normal teenagers do...anger, denial, frustration, confusion. All the emotions. I would give anything to re-live the last final days with her, to hold her, to hug her, to just hear her voice. Sidenote: If you are blessed to have your mother still in your life...do me a favor and please cherish her. Soak up every minute with her. Anyway, as I grew older and years had passed, my Dad mentioned little things about meeting my birth mom to me. I was still not in the mindset to follow through with it. I felt like I would be hurting my Mom's feelings or doing something wrong by meeting her. It wasn't until college that I thought it might be a good idea to meet her. You see, since my Mom passed, I've also lost 3 aunts to the awful disease. I became interested in my own genes and if my birth mom and her family were healthy. Did they have cancer in their family? anything else I need to know about? Plus, I was curious who she was! I finally decided to say yes and go for it.

My Dad's attorney who set up my adoption had already informed us in the past that my birth mom, Angie, lived in Columbus (only 15 mins away from me at that!), and was dying to meet me. He supported me and was excited for me to meet her. That made me feel comfortable because he obviously knew that she was a good lady with good intentions. My Dad and I went over to his attorney's house one night and we called my birth mom. It was the first time I had heard her voice. I just remember being so nervous but she seemed nervous too and was so sweet. I found out that she is now married (my birth father and her broke up after they had me) and has another daughter - which meant I have a half sister! Pretty crazy. 

Fast forward some time - we made plans to meet each other. I knew I wanted my Dad to come with me for the meeting. We met at our attorney's office and he introduced us to one another. I can't BEGIN to tell you how nervous I was...I was shaking like crazy. This is where things get a little wild. Prior to meeting, we thought it would be nice to bring pictures of us growing up...me as a baby, my parents, and Angie as a child with her family. The first moment seeing her was pretty surreal...my first thought was she looks IDENTICAL to me! It was pretty crazy but it wasn't uncomfortable and our conversation flowed naturally. I remember Angie telling my Dad how well him and my Mom raised me, and what a good job they did, which was so kind. She told me I was beautiful and we talked like we had been friends for a while. 

{my half sister and birth mom and me on my wedding day}

 {Natasha, me, Billy}

Now here is the wild part. I told Angie how I went to college at Bowling Green State University. She instantly perked up and was like, "oh, my niece goes there!" I asked her who her niece was and much to my surprise, her niece is one of my GOOD friends that I grew up with since high school, Natasha. Let's take a moment....all throughout high school I was friends with Natasha and we continued to be close throughout our college days at BGSU. I had JUST found out that she is actually my COUSIN. Natasha is Angie's brothers daughter. How insane is that? We were in shock. Not only did I meet my birth mom that day, but I found out one of my good friends is actually someone in my family. I cannot begin to tell you how I felt that day..there are no words that could accurately describe it. 


Right after we left the meeting, I immediately tried calling Natasha. It turns out she was calling me at the exact same time (Angie had called her immediately to tell her!) because we kept getting each others voicemail's! Of course! When we finally reached each other, we were screaming. Tears. More screaming. It was so unbelievable. When I saw Natasha for the first time after finding out I felt like it was different - we weren't just friends, we are family.


Angie has always been super supportive of me and puts the ball in my court. She is an amazing Mom to her daughter and is so caring and loving. I'm so thankful that she chose adoption for me. I have since met most of Angie's side of the family...including her husband, my half sister, my grandmother, and aunt. I did invite them to my wedding and am so glad they came! We still talk and have a good relationship to this day. I couldn't have asked for a better, more heartwarming experience.

I think my Mom would be pretty happy for me. And who knows, maybe it was her who orchestrated all of this. I like to think so.

There you have it! If you are adopted and ever have the opportunity to meet your birth parents, I would definitely encourage you to do so. If anything, at least you know you tried. Someday it may be too late to try.

Have you or anyone you know been adopted? I love hearing all the different stories.

121 comments

  1. It's so awesome that you had a good experience meeting your birth mother and your family. I think your mom would be so proud of you.

    I think it's fantastic that you decided to share this too. What a great story. :)

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  2. Wow .. Didn't know all of this .. Thanks for sharing!! My cousin is adopted and so is my brother-in-law ... I loved hearing your story! See u tonight!??
    Xo

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  3. So So sweet! So great for all of you that it all worked out so perfectly. You had me in tears!

    And yall really do look just alike... o my gosh!

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  4. What an amazing story! Thanks so much for sharing!

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  5. Oh my goodness, this story have me chills & absolutely warmed my heart. Such a wonderful story. I have no doubt Your momma would've loved this post & loved the fact that you shared such an inspirational story!

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  6. this is an AMAZING story. thank you so so much for sharing!

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  7. Wow lady, pretty incredible! It is CRAZY how much you look like Angie! I am really glad you shared this! xoxo.

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  8. I am so glad you chose to share your story!! It also made me sad reading about your mom, and made me think about mine. We were so shorted on our time with them :(

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  9. That is such an incredible story!! My parents tried to have children for many years and finally adopted my sister. 3 years later they got pregnant with me. I couldn't imagine having any sister but her.

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  10. Wow, what an incredible story!! Love that you shared it with us!! Totally warmed my heart! :)

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  11. WOW! Katie! I am blown away. I cannot believe it. I am so happy that you've had such a great experience and I think sharing it is amazing. I promise you there is someone out there you will inspire. I'm a little teary eyed right now and I need to pull myself together. agggghhhh!!

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  12. Thank you so much for sharing this story..I absolutely loved reading it. What an incredible story it is. I am so happy that you made that connection with your birth mom and that everything worked out. Shawn and I are adopting and reading your story confirms my decision even more :) You have such a beautiful family and again, your mom sounds like she was an absolutely incredible woman.

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  13. Katie, I cannot stop crying right now.

    I am so glad you shared this story. My heart goes out to you for your mother. My mother is in remission and has been for 23 years... there is not a day that goes by that I don't think about how lucky I am to have her in my life.

    My husband is also adopted. He was never converned about meeting his mother until we started talking about a family. He sent in his paperwork [6 years late!] so we were sure if she wanted to meet him she would have sent in her paperwork by now. She didn't. It's been hard on him to know that she doesn't want to make contact. So, I am grateful that you had the opportunity to meet her. No one understands what it is like to be adopted and want to see/know your biological family.

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  14. Katie! This is amazing! I'm so glad you decided to share it, it put a big smile on my face. How crazy about Natasha but also very cool! What an incredible story :)

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  15. What an amazing story!! I'm so glad you reached out to your birth mother. It sounds like your Mom was an amazing person and I'm so sorry to hear that she lost her battle to breast cancer. I lost my grandmother to that dreadful disease, as well. Thanks so much for sharing this story!

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  16. Such a cool story!! :) Your mom would be so proud of the woman you've become Katie. You better know that.

    This story makes me feel like I should get in touch with my mom's birth family. They contacted me, but I've been dragging my feet about it. I think I was scared. But maybe I should...

    Anyway... I'm so glad you shared this story!

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  17. Wow - I am in shock! I knew you were adopted, but the details of your story are just fascinating. Everything was meant to be and your mom was up above orchestrating it all. To think you mom made you and Natasha find each other and become friends in college! I'm so happy for you and all you've gotten out of life thus far - including a sister!! But I'm curious, why aren't you ready to meet your birth father?

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  18. Wow what an amazing story!! Such a positive and heartwarming experience, your story made me smile :) thanks for sharing!

    XO
    Emmy

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  19. wow such an amazing story! love the fact tht your very good friend is also your cousin!

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  20. Had NO idea your birth mom came to your wedding!!??!!

    And I love the part about Natasha. Love it.

    Seriously such a cool story.

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  21. That story gave me chills! My Dad is adopted, and I sometimes wonder what it would be like to know that side of my family.

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  22. This is an amazing story, thank you so much for sharing! I had chills reading this!

    I am so happy for you & Natasha!

    Cristie
    keepingupwiththeyoung.blogspot.com

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  23. This is an amazing story, it actually made me cry! Thanks for sharing!

    Breast cancer runs in my family, it's one of my biggest fears.. when i was about 6 my Grandma was actually told the chances of her beating it was very slim, but she did it and I'm very grateful to have her still in my life.

    My mom's business partner adopted two kids from Guatemala and while going through the process she was horrified at the conditions there. Adoption is such a wonderful thing, it gives people the chance to grow up with the life they deserve.

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  24. Such a sweet story. Thanks for sharing!

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  25. What a great story and what a blessing to have a good relationship/experience!!! You and your birth mom ARE identical! VERY cool. My sister and I are 'adopted'...My mother remarried when I was two, my sister 1. But we met our biological father many moons ago...needless to say... i'm glad he is in the complete opposite coast as we are. He is not a good man. I'm happy with the way things are and love my dad.

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  26. thanks for sharing your story with us - definitely heartwarming and how amazing that you got a cousin [that you are already close with?!] out of the deal. I lost my dad five years ago and I know what you mean about it never truly getting easier... I feel like you can never truly explain it to someone unless they have experienced it.

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  27. wow, katie, your story is absolutely amazing. i am so glad you shared with us.

    my mother is adopted. as well as my uncle. because my grandmother couldn't have children. when their family moved to arkansas from texas they moved into my dad's bestfriend's old house. i always find that neat cause obvi they were supposed to be together.

    i still can't get over the whole cousin thing. that is crazy and amazing.
    great post.

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  28. Your story is absolutely amazing and you should be nothing but proud of it!
    So I'm curious if you found out all the health stuff that runs in your "genes"?

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  29. Thanks for sharing this. You have me crying at work. My sister had a friend in high school that was adopted. He finally decided to find his birth mom and he had the opportunity to meet her once. She died about 2 weeks after their first visit.

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  30. Wow, I had no idea you were adopted! What an amazing story, truly a tear jerker. Thank you for sharing. I forwarded this to my cousin, who is also adopted.

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  31. What an amazing story! Thanks for sharing!

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  32. That is an amazing story. Adoption is an amazing thing, and I think you show that in your story. And I find it crazy that your friend is actually your cousin! How awesome.

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  33. Wow, Katie, this made me cry. WHAT a beautiful story, and to me, just a show of how God never closes a door without opening a window. :) Totally, totally amazing. Thank you so much for sharing this with us.

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  34. ahhh!! I love it!! Miss you very very much. I think you have touched a lot of people with this post. xoxo <3 Natasha

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  35. What an amazingly wonderful story! You have officially made me cry sitting here at my desk (oh the joys of hormones and pregnancy!:))! But really, that is a wonderful story and I bet your momma did have something to do with that! :)

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  36. WOW! This is the most amazing story! A tear-jerker for sure ... but truly amazing! You may or may not know from some of my blog posts that I am unable to conceive a child. When we are ready to try invitro is an option, but if that should not work we have discussed adoption and are open to it. Thank you for sharing your story, you renewed my faith that everything happens for a reason and what's meant to be will always find a way!
    xoxo

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  37. Such a good story! Glad you and Angie have had this opportunity. I'm sure your Mom would be happy for you to have made that connection.

    I am adopted too. I've always lived with my Mom but I have no idea who my birth father is. I only have a name.

    It's so crazy to think there is a whole family out there that is a part of me.

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  38. wow, katie! what an amazing story! your mom sounds like she was an amazing story and i have no doubt she was orchestrating everything from above!

    i'm adopted too, though there is little hope that i will ever know who my birth parents are. i'm glad you had the opportunity to find yours and have cultivated a relationship with your birth mother.

    thanks for sharing!

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  39. This is absolutely amazing. I am so happy for you and your story : )

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  40. Alright, I totally wept through a lot of this. And to much I won't go into many details, but I'm really proud of your courage to talk about your journey.

    So cool that you and your friend at BGSUCKS :) (I went to Toleo) is actually your cousin!!! How cool is that?!

    Love you and love your bravery! And I'm borderline pee your pants excited to meet you next week, given you're coming to dinner on Saturday night!!

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  41. Thank you so much for sharing your story, Katie! I have always felt I was called to adopt a child one day. The story of your adoption has inspired me even further. I hope one day my child will have an adoption story that is as beautiful as yours.

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  42. What an amazing story. Thanks for sharing something so personal with all of us! You are truly blessed to have an amazing support group!!!

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  43. thanks so much for sharing your story! That is so unreal that your best friend was actually your cousin, God puts people in our lives for a reason certainly.

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  44. This is such an amazing story!! Thank you so much for sharing. I have a good friend who was adopted at birth and she recently met her birth mother a few years ago - She also had a great experience. :) And how AWESOME that one of your bffs turned out to be family! I can't even imagine!!!!!

    Thanks again for sharing your story!

    Sam

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  45. New follower. Oh this story brought me to tears! Thanks so much for sharing!

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  46. Beautifully written, sissybelle. Y'all look like you fell off the gorgeous tree and hit every branch :) I cannot believe how much you look like your birth momma. Xo

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  47. Wow...I loved reading every second of your adoption story. You are one lucky, beautiful lady! I am so happy that you have had such a wonderful adoption experience. You truly deserve it and it is a testament to the woman you are! Love you tons! xoxo

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  48. That is an awesome story! I am adopted too! You may email me and I will tell you my story! I was also adopted right at birth. My parents had waited for a good 7+ yrs for me! My email is linsw00@gmail.com

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  49. Katie, this is THE most amazing stories I have ever EVER heard. This is def a story of strength, and I love it. Can I share this on my blog? You def had me in tears :)

    LOVE YOU GIRL!!

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  50. This is an amazing story! I love hearing such inspirational things. And I love that you shared it with all of us! My sorority's philanthropy is Susan G Komen and with all of our events coming up I will definitely be thinking about you and your family! :)

    Each one of your parents did something right, because you're an amazing person!

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  51. Katie, Thanks for sharing. I have never met my birth father. The man I call Dad has always been open to me meeting my biological father, but honestly I haven't reached a point where I feel comfortable doing that yet. He legally adopted me when I was five & I too feel like I will hurt his feelings in some weird way.
    Also, my Aunt couldn't have children and has adopted 4! Adoption is an amazing thing!

    xoxo

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  52. Such an awesome story! Your mom would definitely be proud :)

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  53. I love that it was a good experience, and I believe your mother did orchestrate it! I am your newest follower.

    www.bh-confessions.blogspot.com

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  54. this is so heart warming. my mom is adopted and i know just how special being adopted is to her:) what a wonderful story. thanks so much for sharing!

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  55. What an amazing story! I'm sure that your mom would be happy you were able to have a good relationship with your birth mother. It's really nice that your father was so supportive, and that you birth mom turned out to be such a nice person! It's such a small, strange world sometimes, isn't it?

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  56. Wow, what an amazing story, Katie. I had no idea that's where the name of your blog came from. Your Mom sounds like she was an amazing, caring woman. I, too, have lost an aunt way too young to breast cancer. My grandfather (Dad's dad) is adopted but I have never heard the story. You have definitely encouraged me to ask though. Thank you for sharing your story! :)

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  57. What an amazing story! You're a strong girl! I think your mom def had something to do with how everything turned out ;) She would be so proud of the woman you have become!

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  58. Your mom seems like she was an incredible woman, as you seem equally as lovely. I am so happy that you meeting Angie was a great experience for you and you found a deeper connection with your cousin. What a great story. I wish you nothing but happiness and love!

    hugs!!

    Desiree
    hanlonfamily2.blogspot.com

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  59. My younger step sister is adopted. She is only 18 right now and she shows no interest in meeting her birth parents. I really hope one day that she has the courage that you did to meet them. I think it would be a great and eye opening experience for her. I am so sorry for the loss of your mother. Cancer is awful and I have also lost family to it. And you are right, it doesn't get easier.

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  60. I am so glad you shared. I wasn't adopted so I can't relate to that, but my mom passed away from breast cancer when I was a freshman in college (19 years old). I will never forget it and I will remember her every day since it happened, and it doesn't get easier with time no matter what they say. I miss my mom too and its harder some days than others, but I know she is better now and I will of course see her again! I am glad you have a great relationship with your birth mom though. She can't replace your mom, but its good that you can connect and have a relationship.!

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  61. Thank you so much for sharing. I've felt led to adopt since I was a freshman in high school, and now, as a newlywed, I am incredibly blessed that my husband feels as passionately about adoption as I do. I was definitely teary-eyed as I read your account...so inspiring, and it definitely seems divinely orchestrated!!

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  62. Thank you so much for sharing. I've felt led to adopt since I was a freshman in high school, and now, as a newlywed, I am incredibly blessed that my husband feels as passionately about adoption as I do. I was definitely teary-eyed as I read your account...so inspiring, and it definitely seems divinely orchestrated!!

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  63. Holy heck. This made me tear up big time. Totally Oprah worthy. That is an incredible story. Wow. Thank you so much for sharing. What a special story and I love that they were at your weddding. :)

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  64. This is such a great story Katie! Thanks for sharing it with us. It's so nice that you were able to meet your birth mother and still talk with her and her at your wedding. I'm so sorry about your mom; I can't even imagine.

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  65. Wow, such an incredible story...it brought tears to my eyes!!! xox

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  66. Wow! I'm in tears. Such a sweet story. Thanks for sharing, Katie!

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  67. this is a beautiful story and it shows that EVERYTHING happens for a reason and everything happens in due time. you are so blessed. thanks for sharing this story with us all.

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  68. Wow. This is so awesome. You are one fortunate girl! I had no idea that you were adopted until you wrote something about it the other day! So touching! Left me in tears!!!

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  70. What a fascinating story! So courageous of you to share your story- and my what a positive experience! My neighbors just adopted two baby girls! SO wonderful!

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  71. what an amazing and inspiring story!!!! im so impressed at the maturity you showed throughout the whole process. it definitely had to be your mom watching over you :)

    and my sister went to BGSU as did my parents :)

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  72. I am so happy you posted this! My Dad and Aunt were also adopted. I forever wonder about my Dad's birth parents due to health reasons and such. My Dad has no interest at all in finding them.
    My Aunt on the other hand was having a lot of health issues and really needed to find hers. With my Grandmother's blessing she did. And we are ever so thankful. They both never had any other children and did not stay together. My Aunts birth father lives very close and for the past 5 years comes to all of our family functions. He is alone and so enjoys being part of our family. My Aunts birth mother lives in another state but does come to visit.
    I think it is so amazing and couragous of you to post this story!
    I am a new follower and have really enjoyed reading your blog!

    http://caseypinkpolkadots.blogspot.com/

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  73. Goodness gracious! What a lovely story. I am so glad you included pictures so we could see just how much Angie looks like you! It's amazing. I actually don't know anyone who has been adopted very well, so this was a great introduction on how it can look. And i have said it before, but your mother is beautiful and you can see her sweet spirit in her eyes.

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  74. Such a wonderful, amazing story!! I would totally believe that you're mom had something to do with it. I like thinking that like that :). My parents adopted my sister when she was just a baby. She has known about her adoption from day one and sees her biological grandparents about once a year (it was twice a year when she was younger). She had the opportunity to meet her birth mother over the summer when her grandmother passed away, but did not want to attend the funeral because she just wasn't ready to meet her. My mom and dad always leave the door open for her, but I don't think she every will. Unfortunately, her birth mother gave up several children (all by different fathers) and Mackenzie really wants nothing to do with her. It's so wonderful that you have such an open, willing birth mother who is normal!
    Thank you for sharing your story with us. Adoption is SOOO wonderful and so important!!

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  75. That is such an amazing story. I admire you for being so strong! Thank you for sharing this with us!

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  76. Oh, Miss Katie... I just want to give you the biggest hug right now. Your story is a beautiful one and I can't thank you enough for sharing it with the world. I'm sure you have changed the lives of many people just by putting this out there... maybe now people want to meet their birth mother/father.

    I also appreciate all your honesty. Sometimes life isn't always rainbows and roses. There are very rough times and your strength is so inspiring! You are going to make a beautiful and wonderful mother some day and both your mom and Angie will be so, so proud :) xoxo

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  77. I could just give you the biggest hug right now!

    I've always wanted to adopt a little one, but you're story.. pushed me right over the edge. Its such an amazing story! I am so glad that you have such an amazing family - lucky girl you are! :)

    xox,
    katie
    sparklesinthesnow.blogspot.com

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  78. what a great post Katie! I definitely teared up reading this! I wasn't adopted but my daddy was. My parents don't really talk about it very much and I didn't even know that he was adopted until maybe 6 or 7 years ago. He was adopted as a small baby and I don't think he had any interest in knowing his maternal parents until he was much much older..but from what my mom says his maternal mother had no interest in meeting him because she had a "new" life and no one knew he was even born..such a sad story and it hurt me a lot because I never really knew my dads adoptive parents because they died when I was younger so I had hope and maybe still do that one day my maternal grandmother would want to meet my dad as well as me..her grandchild. I am so happy for you and how you're adoption turned out...you are so brave to share such a touching story! Makes me love you and you're blog even more than I already do :) xo

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  79. This is such an incredible story! So happy you shared it with us!

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  80. What an amazing story! Thanks for sharing. I actually met my dad for the first time a few years ago, and I have a half-sister too!

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  81. Katie, I read your blog everyday and rarely comment but I was so touched by your story today. Thank you for having the courage to share something so personal with all of us, you're an amzing women and someone I truly admire!

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  82. I love that you shared this! I was in tears while reading! I'm sorry for the loss of your mom, that has to still be so hard. I am glad you had the oppurtunity to meet your birth mom! I couldn't believe you've been friends with your cousin this entire time! Wow, what a small world!

    Thanks again for sharing your story! :)

    xo

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  83. I love that you shared this! I was in tears while reading! I'm sorry for the loss of your mom, that has to still be so hard. I am glad you had the oppurtunity to meet your birth mom! I couldn't believe you've been friends with your cousin this entire time! Wow, what a small world!

    Thanks again for sharing your story! :)

    xo

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  84. Wow Katie! This is such an amazing story! Thanks for sharing such a part of your life!

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  85. This was an incredible story, I'm glad you shared it. I'm sorry to hear about your mom, losing a parent is awful. I tell people the exact same thing about having their dads in their life.

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  86. Wow, what an amazing story! You definitely had me tearing up. It sounds like your Mom was an AMAZING woman!
    It's also so great that things worked out so well for you and Angie. She seems great and it's very neat that you have extended your family now!

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  87. such a lovely story with a wonderful ending! Took a lot of courage to tell this story! Very proud of you! I knew you and Natasha were related but had NO idea thats how you found out! So amazing <3

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  88. Not sure what I can say that hasn't already been said...
    Beautifully written.

    I think it's safe to say we were both gypped time/years with our mothers.

    You do resemble your birth mom A TON! Definitely can see the resemblance!

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  89. What an amazing, sweet, and inspiring story! Thanks for sharing!

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  90. Katie I wish I could give you a big hug right now!! Thank you so much for sharing your incredible story! I know your mom's smiling down from Heaven right now :)

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  91. Wow.
    What an amazing story! Thank you for sharing, because I am sure it wasn't the easiest thing to do, but I am so glad you have so much love to share!

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  92. Wow what an amazing story. Your mom sounds amazing and I can't imagine what it must have been like to loss her. My grandmother was just diagnosed with Breast cancer. It is definitely a scary thing!

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  93. This is an amazing story. Thank you for sharing! I know your mom would be proud of the beautiful woman you have become.

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  94. This is such an amazing story. I cannot imagine losing your mother at such a young age. I am sure your mom is smiling down on you and so proud of you. Thanks for sharing.

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  95. Katie this is truly an amazing story! You have such courage to share your story like this. I can't imagine losing my mother. I am so happy that all of the pieces of your story have come together so nicely. It's so neat that you have a relationship with your birth mom now and that she came to your wedding. I absolutely love the part about your friend/cousin Natasha! How cool!?!

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  96. Wow! I am so glad you shared this! I am completely blown away and moved...not to mention have tears in my eyes. What an amazing story! Especially about your friend/cousin!! That's crazy. Your mom sounded like a wonderful woman and it warms my heart to know you've had such a great experience with this all...especially meeting your birth mom.
    <3

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  97. Your story is truly amazing! I am not adopted so I could not relate to that part, but my mom has had breast cancer twice (once when I was 12 and she beat it, but it just came back when I was 19). I am so sorry that you lost your mother. My greatest fear is losing mine. So far she is responding to treatment, but every day is so hard because she keeps losing weight and she just doesn't act like my mom any more. It is very hard. I am glad to know that even though you lost your mom that you are still living a happy and productive life!

    Love,
    Grayson Fuller

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  98. wonderful, wonderful, wonderful post.

    Growing up I have a LOT of friends who are adopted. Weirdly enough there's always been a lot of talk about something in the environment over here(such as the working landfill in our town that was open way back when my friends parents were growing up) that affected their parents generations ability to conceive...so a lot of the people i grew up with are adopted. i've heard mixed feelings from them about meeting their birth parents but have always been intrigued about what it must be like...thank you for sharing your story and im so glad you had such a positive experience with meeting your birth mother. Your mother and father also sound like very special people so you were very lucky, xo!

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  99. Yep - I'm all teary eyed sitting here at my desk. What an amazing story - not only of your love for your mom and the true emotion of your loss - but it's almost a sign of God's redemption and grace. How when one door closes another one can open. I'm so happy that you gained family through this experience and that you have such wonderful memories of your mom who loved and raised you. :)

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  100. What an amazing story, Katie. You're such an inspiration for those who have been adopted, or considering adopting, or those who have given their child up for adoption. I am so inspired after this post...thank you so much for sharing!

    xoxo,
    megs [at] Shine On

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  101. Katie, how wonderful of you to share this story with us and be so open and honest...that is so refreshing!

    You have so much to tell and such an inspiring message to others who are adopted and just how when things might not seem to be going your way or seem to be at an end, things can turn around on a path that was possibly always meant for you, it just had to be found at the right time...even when they aren't paths you necessarily wanted!

    Also, the part about your birth mother's niece turning out to be your good friend Natasha and recently discovered cousin...now that is crazy, but oh so awesome!!! :) The mother who adopted you sounds like she was an extraordinary person, mother and friend and I'm glad you had the time with her that you did and I know she would be happy for you! How cool that it also lead you back to your birth mother and a wonderful, loving and supportive "new" family as well!

    Sending lots of smiles your way and a big thank you for such a lovely post...loved it and all the pictures!

    Liesl :)
    xoxo

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  102. katie...i love you and everything about you

    beautiful story and as I already told you, i CRIED!

    i love everything...you are close with your birth mom, your good friend is your COUSIN! you guys are seriously all so beautiful and I know your mom is looking down on you so proud and happy that this happened :-)

    i love that you told us this

    xoxox

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  103. Wow! Where do I begin? This is incredible, Katie! First let me admit that when you kept speaking of your "adoption story" I assumed maybe you were adopting a child from another country. Why? I'm not really sure... maybe because of the photo you posted. I'm fairly new follower so I guess I'm learning more and more from you.
    This is truely amazing. You look SO much like Angie, it's pretty craZy. I love how you had her at your wedding. You get better and better the more I know you {over your blog world}.
    Thank you for sharing this with us.
    I want to end with saying the most touching part for me was when you were talking/describing your mom. My mom is my world. I drink coffee with her every.single.morning! I've always been a Momma's girl - I always tell myself I want to cut our coffee talk to one or two times a week {so I can enter running in my world} but it just seems to wrong when I don't have that 15 minutes with her. I can't imagine her being gone.
    You are such a strong soul. Beauty on the inside & out. You are truley inspiring!

    Thanks again!
    jess, XoXo

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  104. So glad you decided to share your story. As I've told you I was an adoption social worker for 5 years and it was the BEST job. I love working with adoptive families and birth parents during their journey. Adoption is such as amazing way to create families. And the part about your friend being your cousin is crazy!! Such a cool story.

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  105. what an incredible story. wow. i don't even have better words but thanks for sharing.

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  106. amazing sweetie! just amazing! :) I started crying reading this. :) Just filled my heart up. You are a very lucky lady to have so many wonderful people in your life. Cherish them all to pieces.. (I know you do anyway).. My mom was actually adopted. She thought about finding her birth Mom after her Mom had passed, but my mom really don't have much info at all about how to find her.. And we tried. :) But i don't know if she really cares to do so or not anymore. Anyway! Amazing post :) <3 xoxo

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  107. Wow! That is wild that your friend turned out to be your cousin. Your birth mom looks so much like you.

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  108. Wow! What a story. Definitely Oprah worthy :) I'm glad your experience turned out so well. I wonder had your mom not passed if you would have ever met Angie. It's a truly amazing story. Thanks for sharing. I know that your mom is always with you. You are such an amazing person.

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  109. What an amazing story! I am also adopted and like you, I have always felt 100% great about it and like I belonged in my family. I hear some judgment sometimes about it, but I judt don't think someone can understand unless they've been adopted too.

    I'm so happy for you that meeting your birth parents worked out! That's amazing. Unfortunately for me, my birth mother contacted me in a really unconventional way. I wasn't ready for it and it was not something I wanted or I chose. It really wasn't great at all. I have blogged a couple times about adoption myself because I think it's important to share our stories- our good and great stories about how wonderful adoption is. I am so proud of you for doing this! It takes courage to share something to personal. But I think people are better off for hearing it. Thank you!

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  110. What a touching story. I am so glad you were able to come in contact with your birth mom to make that connection. It gave me chills reading about how you found out one of your good friends was actually your cousin. Thank you so much for sharing your story.

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  111. Hi Katie, my name is Crystal. I'm a new follower of yours, and I got your blog from Shannon Dew! She actually sent me the link to this post and told me to read, as I might be able to relate. I too am adopted, but my story is a bit different. Not as heart warming, and there isn't really any happy ending here. But nonetheless, still a great story. I was adopted when I was about 6 months old. But my parents never told me that I was adopted or about my birth mother (Andrea) until I was 21. And they wouldn't have told me if it wasn't for me finding out myself on Myspace...my half sister contacted me. You can read all about my story if you would like...http://crystalann86.blogspot.com/search/label/Adoption
    Thank You for sharing your story! It's an amazing, heartwarming story, and I'm so glad that you had the chance to meet your birth mother, and I'm happy for you that it turned out as it did!! That's just amazing!! I can't wait to read more about you!

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  112. I've been following your blog for a while but this is my first time to comment. This was a beautiful post, it brought tears to my eyes. I just want to thank you for being so open and candid. I don't personally know anyone who is adopted but this really touched me. I'm so glad you have a relationship with your birth mom and I'm so very sorry for the loss of your mom. I know she is looking down on you with a smile.

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  113. I wasn't able to read earlier in the week, but have been looking forward to the chance to read this. You have a great story, and I'm so glad you've had wonderful experience meeting your birth mother. And how awesome to find out your friend was really your family, too :) My dad adopted me when I was 3 years old and he married my mom. Not exactly the same, but still. I've never met my birth father nor do I desire to, because of the circumstances. I just think it is awesome that God puts people in this world with the ability to love people as our own even when they aren't our flesh and blood. My dad has never once treated me any differently than my brother and I am so grateful. ((Hugs Katie))

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  114. i tried commenting on friday but it wouldnt let me....your mom (both of them) are seriously so lucky to have such an amazing, beautiful daughter. this story was amazing katie!

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  115. how did i miss this?? i read your bloggy daily. anywho i am blown away with this post, katie. i teared up reading and could not help but think how much your mama is smiling from up above. there is no doubt in my mind that she had a hand in all of this.

    I cant get over how much you look like your birth mother. What an amazzzzzing experience you had through this whole process. You are going to be such a strong testament for others out there...i just know it :-)

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  116. What an amazing story!!!! Thank you for being so strong and sharing!!

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  117. Katie! What a privileged to read your post. The way that God weaves adoption stories is quite incredible...and I love hearing all of the little (and big) aspects of them that show that He is mindful of us. Thank you for your interest in Ryan, as we move towards adopting him. ~Julie goingafterone.blogspot.com

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  118. WOW! Amazing story, came across this as I was reading your "Best of 2012" post from yesterday!

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  119. Your story is beautiful! It honestly made me tear up.

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