As a dedicated work-at-home mom, I can relate deeply to the lengths we go to keep our kids from interrupting important calls. Forget just turning on a cartoon—I’ve had to get a bit more inventive during my eight years juggling home and work life.
I’ve taken phone calls from the bathroom, balancing on the toilet seat to mask my presence. Once, I ventured outside in the middle of a snowstorm just to find some quiet while the kids were home from school. I even allowed my boys to play in the shower for an extended period during a crucial call, which led to a significant leak in our living room—a topic my partner and I still avoid discussing.
So, when my 10-year-old was home during my scheduled interview with Chelsea Parker, I felt a wave of anxiety wash over me. My middle child has a knack for comedic interruptions and can be quite vocal when he needs anything. Thankfully, Chelsea quickly related that her daughter, Lily, was also home and could appear at any moment.
Chelsea, warm and down-to-earth, described how Lily is currently captivated by the concept of opening and closing doors, a whimsical game she likens to “hide-and-seek.” Despite the chaos of my household, I found Chelsea’s relatable nature refreshing, even as my own kids engaged in antics like flipping plastic water bottles.
Reflecting on her upbringing in Arkansas, Chelsea fondly recalled Saturdays spent at her mom’s law office, understanding even then that these hours were necessary to ensure Hillary was home for family dinners during the week. She reminisced about how her grandmother once gifted her a pair of rainbow Velcro shoes, much to Hillary’s dismay. They struck a deal: Chelsea could wear the shoes if she tied her own sneakers on alternate days.
Chelsea spoke proudly of her father’s first presidential campaign in 1992, recalling how her mother managed to keep her schedule so that she only spent three nights away from home throughout the entire campaign. This level of dedication resonated with Chelsea, who as a working mother understands the sacrifices involved in balancing work and family life—something that was highlighted during the media scrutiny of her husband taking Lily to preschool while she campaigned.
When Chelsea described her relationship with her mother as “intensely close,” it struck a chord. For those fortunate enough to see their mothers as complex individuals, rather than just figures in their stories, this connection is profound. Chelsea commented on the disconnect between Hillary as a person and as a public figure, expressing her bewilderment at the narrative surrounding her mother.
Chelsea has cherished watching her mother take on the role of Granma (or “No H,” as she humorously clarifies) for Lily and Max, who adore her singing—despite her less-than-stellar vocal talent. Now, as Chelsea contemplates the historical significance of her mother’s potential presidency, she’s keen on bridging that gap, ensuring her kids recognize that Hillary can embody both their beloved Granma and a leader.
To illustrate this point, Chelsea shared a miniature Hillary action figure she received at a campaign event. Lily enjoys bringing the figure, dressed in a chic blue pantsuit, into the bath. However, she once asked Chelsea, “Why Granma no H?” in reference to the absence of an H on the action figure’s outfit. Chelsea simply replied, “Because Granma is the H.” And that she is.
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In summary, Chelsea Parker’s conversation about her family, her relationship with her mother, and the balance of motherhood and ambition sheds light on the complexities of being a modern mom. It highlights the importance of understanding our loved ones beyond their public personas and finding joy in the little moments that define family life.