I wrote about the Gore's divorce also, on my blog and the Huffington Post. I think everyone feels sad to hear this news; but like you, I get it. Maybe it's because we're 50-something mom and not 30-something.... Here's my take: http://blog.darrylepollack.com/2010/06/the-gores-and-the-state-of-the-union/

Thank you so much for the comments, and I'm glad to be able to challenge moms to do what mothers rarely do--put ourselves first. Sometimes that means doing what Mamaspeak refers to--it's a challenge to practice what we preach. Turns out that the kids are actually listening sometimes when you think they're not. Thanks again for your comments.

Susan, first of all thanks for the shout-out. This was a huge issue for me in raising a boy--I was worried that all my reminders to respect women would get drowned out by the lyrics of hip hop and rap music--often demeaning to women. I'd guess that your consciousness of this in the way you raise a boy does sink into his consciousness--as you teach and model respect for moms, sisters, teachers, and other women in their lives. There are no guarantees, but my son is 21 now--and he's definitely a mensch.

Aunt Helen is really the only link I have; and that's because she made it happen; not me. I think the relationships with the parents of childhood friends can sometimes be as important as the ties with the friends themselves. I hope I'll always be in touch with some of my children's friends; and that they will be with some of mine. Someday FAcebook should make that easier.....

Thank u--I hope someday some of my friends' children will think of me as THEIR Aunt Helen.

Love hearing about varying reactions and opinions---all an indication that women are thinking and caring about issues that affect us and how we're perceived. I've decided never again to use the term "mommy blogger". But no matter what term is used to describe it, I wish blogging had existed when my kids were younger; and feel proud to be part of this community.

Thank you both for such thoughtful comments. It's been interesting to see the varying reactions women are having to this NY Times article and how we are perceived. I have learned over the years to be less angry and more philosophical; I really do think women have come a long way. Once in a while a wake up call comes along---which I think is a good thing for any women who don't see that it's not over till it's over.

Like to see a woman with her priorities in order. Love it. And when the kids can be there in some way for parents-----nothing makes them happier---or us.

We're definitely soul mates---When he read this piece, my ex-husband reminded me that on our first trip with our 3 month old, I brought a week's supply of Huggies diapers---in case there weren't any to be found....in Manhattan.

Even now with two 20-somethings, the mix of my kids and cars is the hardest part of parenting. I would never push or prematurely urge a kid to drive---but I think considering the dangers, parents need to use a combination of their kids' desires and your own instincts about their readiness.

Judging by my 25-years of experience with my daughter's fashion (or lack of it)--- whatever your daughter--or Shiloh or Suri--looks like right now doesn't always predict what they will be like as women. Like everything else about having kids---hang in there, this too shall pass.

Thank u for such thoughtful memories---which brings back so many of mine. Your comment also reminds me of a conversation Daniel and I had just before he left when we traded a few stories we'd never shared---both in the area of being "naive and clueless." My stories were far worse than his; and i'm trying not to think about it now that he's actually gone. Definitely better for parents to hear those stories long after the fact. LOL