TABLE OF CONTENTS
FEATURES
Who comes First? My Child or My Partner?
By Dianne Martin, BSW, RSW
Misplaced priorities create conflict, confusion and chaos in a stepfamily.
Co-Parenting in Same-Sex Relationships
By Diane Greene, Certified Stepfamily Coach
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, one-quarter of all same-sex households have children. It’s time to address same-sex co-parenting.
Building Your Stepchild’s Self-Esteem
By Heather Hetchler
An interview with stepmom Dawn Lyons, a self-esteem coach.
Stepmother of the Bride: 10 Things Women with Stepchildren Need To Know
By Brenda Snyder, LCSW
How to survive with dignity and class when your stepchildren get married.
Emotional Intelligence and the Stepmom: Being the Observer
By Joan Sarin, M.S.
An ongoing series that examines the fundamental EQ competencies of knowing yourself, choosing your responses and giving of yourself.
DEPARTMENTS
BRENDA’S CORNER: Letter From The Publisher
STEPMOM MEMOIRS: The Redheaded Stepchild
Learning How to Celebrate the Stepfamily
By Stacy Spencer Thompson
STEPFAMILY LIFE: Relocating or Moving Into a New Home?
A Little Planning and Creativity Can Make the Transition Easier on Your Stepkids
By Bridgit Buffington
LEGAL MATTERS: Paternity Testing and a Father’s Rights
By Lara R. Badain, Esq.
LIFE ON THE TIPPING POINT: Making a House Our Home
Decorating with Purpose
By Ms. Taken
ON THE MONEY: Money Matters!
Talking About Money is Good for Your Relationship
By Emily Bouchard, MSSW
STEPPING STONES: I Want a Baby!
What To Do When You Want a Child of Your Own … But He Doesn’t
By Laura Petherbridge
LIFE WITH LISA: Mother Of Three
Life Happens When We’re Busy Making Other Plans
By Lisa Bradshaw
COUPLES CORNER: Walking on Eggshells
Five Reasons Your Man Might Be Tiptoeing Around You
By Mary T. Kelly, M.A.
FOOD AND FUN: Chicken Noodle Soup
By Ashley Grant
STYLISH STEPMOM: New Year = New You
Choosing Workout Gear to Start the Year Right
By Heidi Ducato
WORDS OF WISDOM