I Chose to Become a Young, Single Mother
Raised among a privileged class, the writer wore her single-parenting status as a badge of honor. One that led her down a very different path from nearly everyone in her life.
Parenthood
Dear Julie: “My Friend’s Horrific Divorce Is Affecting My Family, Help!”
DAME’s Friendkeeper walks a woman through the minefield of a pal’s explosive divorce, and blows the whistle on a grammar grouch.
My Mother Always Told Me Not to Cry
The acclaimed author of "Heather Has Two Mommies" reflects on her relationship with her late mother, whose no-crying-allowed policy was enforced until the very end.
My Autistic Son Turned Me Into a Prolific Essayist
When her child was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, the author worried she’d forever lost her ability to write. But he helped her realize that she had more to say than ever.
Dear Julie: “Should I Accept My Friend’s Apology for Hooking Up With My Ex?”
DAME’s Friendkeeper helps clear the air post-betrayal and walks a couple through a confrontation with former besties.
How Are We Ever Going to Afford College?
With the average annual cost of a four-year private university now a staggering $42,419, it's a wonder anyone can send their kids to school. Don't despair: Who said you had to go private?
You’d Be Such a Good Mother. If Only You Weren’t You
From Meghan Daum's anthology, SELFISH, SHALLOW, AND SELF-ABSORBED, memoirist M.G. Lord's brutally honest essay about her blindingly agonizing decision not to have kids.
The Birth Mother With No Baby
As this writer discovered in the worst way, domestic open adoption remains a largely unregulated frontier that can leave prospective adoptive parents vulnerable to just about anything.
What “Parenthood” Taught Me About Parenthood
As the six-season drama wraps up, a father reflects on what he learned from watching Joel, Julia, "Bug," and Victor Graham work through their toughest times.