Wide Open

Written by Melissa

I was reminded this past week of the incredible strength of Jim and Heather. We received photos of Ariana from November and December and two letters from Jim and Heather about those two months in the mail via Bethany Christian Services. I had vast knowledge already of most of what was written in the letters from phone or Skype conversations we have had with Jim and Heather. Some of the pictures of Ari were also ones I had seen before from Heather via text or email... some were new and a fantastic addition to my growing gallery of her.

What I realized is that these were photos and letters that Jim and Heather must send to Bethany - to keep up with a generic communication agreement we all signed. What I also realized is how overwhelmingly grateful I am for the fact that Jim, Heather, Andrew and I go WAY above and beyond this typical communication agreement of an open adoption. Our open is WIDE OPEN! We speak on an almost daily basis. And I cannot express my gratitude for this. Were it not for our amazingly unique and open situation, these would have been the first photos and letters of my daughter that I would have received. The thought of that broke my heart. Without the love and grace of Jim and Heather - and their ability to open their lives and hearts to Andrew, Asa, and I, my heart would be eternally broken. I am so thankful to know that our constant contact will surely heal my heart much sooner than later. Moreover, our open lines of communication will allow for such an amazing blended family --- one that will surely go down in the history books of what it is to truly be in an incredibly loving and OPEN adoption.

Jim and Heather, we couldn't do this without you. We are forever grateful for your love.