Stuff That Won’t Be Online, Yet You Must Read

I just realized that I often go on about the pieces we put online. And they are indeed awesome. But the content that isn’t online is just as swoon-worthy. Here’s a rundown of what else is in the Winter 2012 issue:

“Toy Story” by Meredith Fein Lichtenberg. Meredith gives a talk to new mothers in motherhood and sexuality at the famed Babeland sex-toy shop in NYC. She talks to the women about, on one hand, respecting your feelings to just not get it on, and, on the other hand, worrying that your relationship will become boring. I’ve read this one many, many times, and there’s a scene that still makes me crack up.

“Should You Police Your Child’s Appearance?” by Heather Mahoney and Talisa D’Amato. Ooh, this debate is a good one. Heather argues that appearance falls into the same category of nutrition and health issues: kids need guidance. Talisa sees it as a First Amendment issue.

“Stalking My Daughter’s Birth Mother” by Melissa Hart. This is a fabulous one. Before adopting her daughter, Melissa has idealized open adoption. But then her daughter’s birth mother—who lived a pretty rough life--decided against visiting in person. I don’t want to ruin this; you have to read it.

“Locked Ward” by Barbara Dara Cooper. Barbara’s daughter struggles with anorexia and her family struggles with its treatment. Oh, it’s such a strange world, and Barbara’s rendering of it is exquisite. This one will stick with you a long time.

“Any Idiot Can Do It” by Mary Rees. Mary’s short story is fabulous, especially for those of us hesitated on the edge of becoming a mother before taking the leap. There’s an imaginary stepmother. And girlfriend is funny.

“Eat, Sleep, Protect” by Stephanie Wilkinson. Who loves themselves a mystery? (Me!) Stephanie reviews some recent suspense novels in which mothers—and the impulse to nurture—play a big role. It’s going to be a long winter, peeps: you can do a lot worse than to stock up on Stephanie’s recommendations to get you through it.

“Child Development, as Narrated by Rock and Roll” by Meredith Greene. Meredith traces the growth of your child through rock lyrics. My favorite: “She’s got legs. She knows how to use them.”

Good stuff, no? (Here's how to get it in print or for your e-reader.) Feel free to leave comments on these pieces below!