One word to describe how you felt the moment you discovered you were pregnant?

Terrified

Why did you choose adoption?

I chose adoption because everything kept pointing to adoption. Before I found out I was pregnant people around me were talking about adopting, all the quotes I saw on Pinterest were about adoption. When I went to get proof of pregnancy, the center I was at talked to me about adoption and led me to a support group for single pregnant women. I learned there that one of the leaders was adopting and she shared her story with me. She also introduced me to the birth mother who shared her story with me. I truly believe God pointed me to adoption.

What and who played the biggest role in your decision to place your child for adoption?

I have a 2-year-old who I parent. Her father along with the father of my second child played a big part in why I chose adoption. I have been raising my 2-year-old alone since she was born, her father has been no help. The father of the adopted child is a great dad to two children and together we decided that adoption was the best for all involved. Another huge reason why I chose adoption was because of my mother. She raised five kids alone, she struggled but made the most of it. I want better for my children, both of them.

What did you think about adoption before you placed? And after you placed?

I thought adoption was a little scary because I couldn’t plan for how I would feel after I gave birth. I knew I was doing the right thing but I was terrified I would change my mind at the last minute and have nothing for a baby at home. After I saw my daughter with her parents I knew I had done the right thing. I knew the second I saw her in her parent's arms that I had made the decision. I will always know my baby girl because of the parents I chose were the perfect parents.

Looking back, what do you wish you had known then that you know today?

There is nothing that I can think of that I didn't already know besides how I would feel after I placed. There is no way to know how you will feel after you place a child for adoption, but I know with the help of God I am doing just fine.

If you could dispel any myths about adoption or birth mothers - what would you say?

Not all adoptions are bad. I joined a support group for birth moms and when I tried to get support they told me how horrible adoption was and how I would never know my child. How the adoptive parents would go back on what we had agreed on. But I know now that I will always know my baby girl, and I love open adoption!

When, if ever, have you felt most discouraged about your decision to place?

When I am around my family who disagreed with my decision and seem to remind me of how life would be if I didn’t place my second child.

What's been the greatest reward or surprise of being a birth mother?

I gained a whole family when I placed my daughter. I love my daughter’s parents, and I am so happy to be a part of the family.

What's your greatest wish for birth mothers today?

That it is OK to cry and breakdown. You are loved, and you gave the most amazing gift a woman who can’t have children could ask for.

What excites you about BraveLove?

That you are showing people that not all adoptions are terrible.

Where is Miranda now?  You can find out.  We got to catch up with her four years later.