When my sister and I were kids, my mom spent Tuesday-Thursday of most weeks in Chicago. When she wasn’t in Chicago, she was often traveling to another city for a conference or sales meeting. My dad did a lot of the primary parenting during the week and we always participated in after school programs and had a lot of different babysitters over the years.

I was talking to my mom the other day about balancing two people’s career goals and a family. She told me how hard it had been for her to be gone so much when we were younger, how she had felt like she had missed a lot or let us down.

The truth is, I would occasionally be jealous of my friends whose moms were always home, volunteering for things at school or chaperoning field trips. I would get so mad every time I asked my mom to chaperone a trip to the apple orchard or museum of science and she wouldn’t be able to come because she was scheduled to be out of town for work.

But now that I’m an adult, I’ve come to realize that my mom’s career is one of the greatest gifts she could have given my sister and I. We grew up in a home with two parents who had successful careers that they were really passionate about. I grew up thinking that all moms had suits and conference calls and frequent flyer miles.

It never occurred to me that a woman would need to choose between being a mom and having a career.

My mom retired last week after a really successful and impactful run in education and publishing. We don’t have field trips to reminisce about, but she’s the first person I call when I need some career advice, a second set of eyes on a resume, or need to know how long to boil eggs. She’s someone I look up to not just because she’s my mother, but because she’s a remarkable woman.

Congratulations, Mom! I know you’ve heard from lots of people recently about the important role you’ve played in their careers and lives. Just know that your role as Mom has been important in mine too.

I would also be remised if I didn’t acknowledge another legendary working mother. Ruth Bader Ginsburg was a force. Her work for gender equality and women’s rights, among many other things, have had a positive impact on so many lives. She is an outstanding role model for all of us. My thoughts are with her family.

5 things I’m loving this week

1. The Morning Brew. The Morning Brew recently shared an article about the important role prioritizing working parents plays in our economy. They also put out a number of really great newsletters about everything from business and tech to retail and marketing. It’s my favorite way to start the day.

Interested? Subscribe using my referral link!

2. Fantasy Football. When I was living in New Hampshire I would always go over to my parents’ on Sunday and watch the Patriot’s game with my dad. There’s nothing like sharing some beers and scrolling instagram while your adult father screams at the TV on the couch next you. I’m so lucky that I can now share the same Sunday experience with Connor.

In all seriousness, I have a very elementary understanding of football. This year my friends wanted to do a fantasy football league and I agreed, because why not. I’m actually surprised by how much I’ve learned so far. And how competitive I am. Da Wicked Pissahs are going all the way this year.

3. Pumpkin Beer. Tis the season! My favorites are Shipyard Pumpkinhead and UFO Pumpkin. Best enjoyed with a cinnamon sugar rim. If you’re feeling extra spooky, add a shot of vanilla or caramel vodka.

4. Dead to Me. My sister has been bothering me to watch this for months. I finally gave it a shot last weekend. And finished it on Friday night. Because I have no self control. And also because it was amazing.

5. This cropped hoodie from Target. Goes great with the bike short uniform. Very soft, very comfy. I especially enjoy the extra large hood and the fact that the sleeves are long enough. Also, it’s less than $20.

Cheers!

-Molly