I’m Gretchen -- a mama, wife, editor, freelance writer and ‘natural’  redhead married to a man whose patience never runs dry.

Adoption issues are near and dear to me; both my husband and daughter were adopted. His is closed, hers is open. We’re all about the open. And ethics in adoption? That's a non-negotiable.

In addition to writing at my blog musings:mamahood&more about parenting, adoption, transracial adoption and our commitment to our daughter's first mother, I write a quarterly column for my adoption agency on open adoption and the myriad issues, feelings and experiences surrounding it. Read more at my blog, http://mamagigi.wordpress.com, where respectful comments are always welcome. My agency column, Musings of An Adoptive Mama, can also be found there.

Talking about adoption, sharing my experiences and providing resources are what I do. Making connections and sharing in our own unique journeys -- from all sides -- are what I strive for.

I'm also active in my local adoption group, which embraces all members of the triad and works to ensure open minds and open hearts, and support those in their own unique journey. If you're in New Jersey and interested in meeting others touched by adoption, shoot me an email.

Reach me anytime at mamagigi AT comcast DOT net.