Step Into the Mormon Bloggernacle

One of the most persistent stereotypes about Mormons — or any devout person whose religion forbids even benign vices — is that they are square, straitlaced, and hopelessly uncool. Just ask Mitt Romney. But a new generation of bloggers is challenging stereotypes on crafty online diaries depicting a decidedly hip, charmingly wholesome brand of domesticity. Think: Norman Rockwell painting Brigham Young, as styled by Jenna Lyons.

Last week, Mitt’s daughter-in-law, Mary, was thrust into the spotlight when media outlets reprinted pictures from her blog, “Me & My Boys.” Though she’s since made it private, the blog provided a tantalizing glimpse into life inside the Romney household, their social savvy and their faith, as McKay Coppins reported. But Mary Romney is one of many young Mormon women who invite readers into their lives via well-designed blogs — and she’s far from the most popular.