To Mom (Margaret Frances) and to Mom (Lydia)

This is a favorite photo I have of my mom. Margaret Frances was born into a rambling Victorian farmhouse in Tallapoosa Ga. I’ve driven through that small town – right before you cross over into the land of Elephants and Tigers (Alabama – University of Alabama and Auburn University). I so wish I could ask every question that I can think of about her childhood, growing up, her mom, her relatives. She had one sister, Lucille and one brother who she absolutely adored. Uncle Henry. I do not remember much about him. He drove a 500 SL convertible Mercedes. He owned a jewelry store in the area known as Lakewood Heights. He was killed on my birthday when I was about 6 I think. Maybe 7. It was the year I begged for a pup tent so that I could sleep in the backyard much to my mothers dismay. I’m sure she hoped I would forget about the pup tent. I did not forget I assure you. I got the tent, but the day was so heavy with tears, crying and grief I dont’ remember much about the pup tent. I didn’t know him well, Uncle Henry. He was married to gee….., I don’t even know her name – my mother didn’t care for her is all that I can think is the reason I don’t remember much about them. I have a pretty good memory when it comes to houses, places and people, but I don’t think I spent any time with them. I never visited their home. I do remember visiting the jewelry store with my father when I tagged along with him on his weekend trips to visit friends all around Atlanta. My father knew everyone. Uncle Henry was killed by his wife. I seem to recall talk of smokers, heavy drinking, arguments, jealous rage from his wife. My mother was none of that. Uncle Henry was very handsome. My mother raised him I seem to recall. Her mother (my grandmother) worked quite a bit. My mother I feel thought of Uncle Henry as her own child. So many unanswered questions.

My mother was kind, gentle very much a Southern lady. She was very lovely. I miss her. I so wish I could talk to her, which I do from time to time. The last time I tried to find my parents graves I could not for the life of me locate the headstones! It was as if they had moved to another section of the cemetery. Like a practical joke on me or something. Which is kind of funny if you think about it. Them thinking ‘hey lets move closer to the gazebo in that section and see if she can find us!’.

I found the photo of Margaret Frances post her passing. It has her at about 16 years old. Who took the photo? I love her dress. Her hair is all twisted on top. She had beautiful hair and cheekbones. Large brown eyes. She wanted a child so very much. They adopted my sister first, she’s 5 years older than I am. Unfortunately we are not close. That’s OK. I’ve completely resigend myself to that. They had another girl before me, but they sent her back for some reason. Luckily they found me!

I remember the first meeting. I was 2. I only remember fragments before that but not really people. The social worker took me to South Dekalb Mall, and walked me through the mall so that my mother and father could see me. I had no clue as to who they were or why I was there of course. But I LOOKED AT THEM and did not take my eyes off of them. I actually turned my head and tried to walk to them but the social work pulled me along. Did I mention I am extremely senstive to people – I know things.

Luckily, they liked what they saw, obvsiouly, and boom. Kimberly Ann Kennedy was in the HOUSE.

Which brings me to my birth mother Lydia. Thank you sweet Lydia for being who you are. I am careful not to press for questions too much with my birth mom – I think we both are still merging how we fit together. A delicate dance. I think I can be overwhelming with questions. I’m a seeker of knowledge. I do however have two incredible half sisters (SISTERS) Jenni & Wendy.

That brings me to my petite bebe’s. The Doodle and Andrew. Doodlebug made me a mom – Andrew is the youngest. Love them both DEARLY.

Life is what you make of it. There are highs and lows. You must have lows to fully appreciate the highs. I believe that with all my being. Love hard, forgive and savor each day.

Happy Mothers Day!

xoxoxo Kimy