One often scary, overwhelming and misunderstood part of infant adoption is called open adoption. This is where birthmoms and adoptive families have some type of ongoing communication and relationship. Listening to an open adoption story can help us all learn how others have successfully started and grown their relationship. On this episode of the Infant Adoption Guide Podcast, we are joined by Tara (Birthmom) and Nicole (Adoptive Mom) as they share their emotional, inspiring and heart-tugging open adoption story. Tara and Nicole are so honest and genuine about how much they love their daughter Olivia and each other. You’ll hear how they first met, how Tara chose Nicole and Jeremy why their relationship has blossomed into one that is completely focused on what’s best for Olivia. They also talk about how God has worked in their lives to bring about the good through the pain – and how their faith grew as they depended on God to provide. Check out the FUN photos below showing Tara, little Olivia, Nicole & Jeremy! Here’s what you’ll hear in this story: * How Tara initially wanted a closed adoption and how Brittany from Bethany Christian Services helped Tara think about and come to accept that open adoption was best for her and her baby. * What it was like in the hospital when Olivia was born – which happened to be on MOTHER’S DAY. * Hear how Tara tells the story of the day why she wanted a C-section, when she held Olivia and then watched Nicole and Jeremy drive off “with a piece of my heart”. * Find out why Tara said “I didn’t give her (Olivia) to you (Nicole) because I didn’t love her, but I gave her to you BECAUSE I love her.” * Hear Nicole explain what it was like to see Tara through the delivery room window as Olivia was born – watching Tara’s “level of sacrifice” * How Tara invited Nicole and Jeremy to attend her wedding after she placed Olivia with them. Tara says “they had seen me at my most broken, so I wanted them to be apart of my most joyful moment.” * Find out how they decided on how much communication they would have after Olivia was born. * Learn about Tara and Nicole’s biggest challenges and most overwhelming moments during their open adoption story. Links we talk about in this episode: * Bethany’s Post Adoption Support Center – a great place for adoptive families, adoptees and birth families to get amazing support.* Watch the 3 minute video where Tara and Nicole share their open adoption story and relationship with Bethany Christian Services.* Bethany Christian Services – learn how you can build your family with Bethany – a full service adoption agency with offices in 37 states to serve you on the infant adoption journey.* GET MY 4 FREE EBOOKS – help on your infant adoption journey while getting info and inspiration only provided to subscribers of the Infant Adoption Guide blog and podcast!