TABLE OF CONTENTS
FEATURES
Baby Steps to Gratitude
A Stepmom Finds Family Through Infertility
by THE SECOND WIFE
A stepmom comes to terms with her infertility by being thankful for the stepchildren who are such a big part of her life.
Stepmoms and Grief
The Real Reasons Stepfamily Life Makes Us Sad
by BRENDA SNYDER, LCSW
When stepmoms suffer from loss and sadness, it can be helpful to explore the stages of grief so that feelings can be better recognized and understood.
Living in Harmony
4 Important Predictors of Stepfamily Success
by MARY T. KELLY, M.A.
Achieving a thriving stepfamily is absolutely possible, but it takes commitment. It also helps to have these four conditions working in your favor.
The Stepmom’s Wish List
Swag, Stepfamily Books & DVDs and Stepmom Coaching & Counseling
A collection of great gift ideas … for you!
Noble Goals: How High (or Low) Are We Reaching?
Emotional Intelligence and the Stepmom
by JOAN SARIN, M.S.
The last part of 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
URBAN STEPMOM: I Used to Be Single, Smart and Sexy!
The Biggest Mistakes I Made When I Became a Stepmom (And How I Fixed Them!)
BY LISA BAGSHAW
LEGAL MATTERS: Restraining Orders
My Partner’s Ex Is Harassing Me!
BY LARA R. BADAIN, ESQ.
GUY THEORY: Presents of Mind
A Father’s Take on Toys and Traditions
BY JOEL SCHWARTZBERG
ADVICE FROM THE EXPERTS: Holiday Do’s & Don’ts
Keep Calm and Carry On This Season
TIME OUT: The Battle Between Good and Evil
Which Wolf Are You Feeding This Holiday Season?
BY HEATHER HETCHLER
STEPMOM MEMOIRS: Shades of Love
I Don’t Love Him Like He’s My Own. I Love Him With My Whole Heart.
BY STACY SPENCER THOMPSON
LIFE WITH LISA
The Rescheduled Vasectomy
Giving Thanks for the Family I’m Supposed to Have
BY LISA BRADSHAW
VANTAGE POINT: Climbing the (Step) Ladder to Success
Leadership Tips to Help You Reach Your Potential
BY KIMBERLY M. GRANDY
FOOD AND FUN: Recipe: Tapioca, Craft: Paper Mache Pumpkins
BY ASHLEY GRANT
OUTLOOK: Real Stepmoms. Real Stories.
Meet Carrie Owens of Greenwood, Indiana!