Kevin Fisher-Paulson

On Saturday, I attended my first-ever meeting with the California Writers’ Club Mt. Diablo branch, to hear guest speaker Kevin Fisher-Paulson. Kevin is a San Francisco Chronicle columnist and author of “How We Keep Spinning” and “A Song for Lost Angels,” two memoirs read and cherished by our adoption book group; as well as father of two and commander of the honor guard for the San Francisco Sheriff’s Department. Fun fact I know from reading Kevin’s work: Kevin’s husband Brian, also in attendance, is a former Broadway dancer and dance teacher. Did I happen to let it slip my mother was a Radio City Music Hall Rockette? Only within the first two minutes of conversation. 😉 The afternoon was a delight, and the CWC a welcoming and supportive group. I asked Kevin to sign his books and he graciously obliged; here I am with Brian and Kevin at the signing table. #californiawritersclub #kevinfisherpaulson #adoptivefamilies #jessicaodwyer

Summer 2022

Saw this Magritte-esque blue sky framed against an arch in Madrid’s Plaza Mayor and asked a stranger to snap a picture. Summer 2022 was magic.

Defining Diego podcast

Laurie Stern is an adoptive mother and reporter who spent 20+ years recording her and her husband’s experience adopting their son, Diego, from Guatemala. Defining Diego is a 10-part podcast that explores the family’s journey against the larger backdrop of having roots in two cultures, reunion with birth family, questions of identity, and the history of international adoption in general and Guatemalan adoption in particular. Defining Diego is definitely worth a listen for anyone with an interest in intercountry adoption. Listen here.

Mamalita on Audible

If you feel like listening to me tell you a story, my memoir Mamalita is available on Audible. Publishers Weekly called Mamalita “harrowing and moving,” while Marin Magazine said: “Regardless of age or intent, this is a riveting read.” Quick note: The recording engineer described my narration as “performative.” So if you prefer a listening experience less dramatic, Mamalita may not be the audiobook for you. Otherwise, thank you for taking this journey with me! Mamalita on Audible.

A clear day

“On a clear day / Rise and look around you.” Wishing you sunny days ahead. xo