There’s a tendency to romanticize old-fashioned correspondence, now that it seems superfluous to modern life, but as a regular practice, it’s not so much a romantic indulgence as a discipline.

The April issue is here! Enjoy!

“History,” the presenter said, “is written from the perspective of the one who holds the pen. This museum is our turn to tell our history.”

YES! I thought. THAT is why I write! To explore my history, to share my perspective, and to choose the pen with which to write.

That same sentiment also informs every decision we make at Literary Mama, because we believe every mother has a story worth sharing and because we’re committed to sharing those stories.

My mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease almost three years ago, and the time has come for her and my dad to move somewhere safer. So, earlier this month, my two sisters and I met at my parents’ home to …

We’re bombarded by exhortations to live life to the fullest, upbraided for being too conventional or too responsible or not responsible enough, for merely scraping by when we could be thriving.

May you find something to embrace this holiday season, and may that something sustain you through the coming year.

I’m the first to credit the instructor for her patience in working with me, but the real key to my (perceived) success is the simple fact that I added the word “Transform” to my calendar. Every week, those nine letters encourage, challenge, and keep me humble.
The same could be said about reading and writing. Do these activities fill specific slots on your calendar?

To many, the image of a pregnant woman symbolizes not only motherhood but also, the desire for motherhood. And really: what’s more joyful than a photo of a newborn or one of a woman gently caressing her pregnant belly? Yet, what image might be more frightening to a woman who is facing an unplanned or unwanted pregnancy? Or more

I wanted this editor’s letter to celebrate a family reunion of sorts, complete with hugs and warm accolades that would welcome you back to our pages after our short summer break, but I struggled to find words strong enough to convey my thoughts. Even now, in mid-September, a summer of national unrest and uncertainty weighs heavy on my heart.

Just as with the work of the writers we publish, the work the artists and photographers share with us is created from a place deep in their hearts. For some, their art is inspired by illness, disease, or tragedy. For others, their purpose is to tell a story about a specific moment in time. I’m pleased to dedicate this editor’s letter to the artists and photographers who shared their work with us last year and hope you’re as moved by the images as I am.