By Kathleen Guthrie Woods 

First I scan the headlines of the breaking news. If something catches my eye, I might read the whole article. Then I return to the home page and glance through the categories: local, entertainment, opinion, food, living…. What the fruitcake? Four out of the five featured stories in the “living” section are about parenting!

I’ve somewhat resigned myself to the reality that “women’s” magazines are thinly veiled publications for “mommies,” but this is getting ridiculous. With a category as broad as “living,” possible topics are limitless. How about profiles of people doing good works, stories about working stiffs who ditched “secure” corporate jobs and pursued their passions to great success, hidden gems for travelers, or tips on how to make a house/apartment/trailer a welcoming home?

For just a moment I’m tempted to write a letter to the editor. But you know what, I think I’d rather spend my free time pursuing the art of living fully.

Still, I’m frustrated. I like keeping up-to-date on news, styles, etc., and I’d really like to avoid the baby-bump updates.

If you subscribe to a printed or online periodical that is balanced in its coverage, leave a comment and let us know.

Kathleen Guthrie Woods is a Northern California–based freelance writer. She is mostly at peace with her childfree status.