Bad news from the work front: a new study has found what has long been assumed to be true -- mothers are punished in the workforce at far higher rates than men or single women. The thinking, according to the study's authors, is that moms are punished because they're thought to be less committed workers. (Fair warning: the study was run as a simulation, with college kids reviewing fake resumes. It is possible -- though the authors doubt it -- that older workers would be more equitable.)

It's a frustrating study to see because it suggests that the old stereotypes are dying hard. "Even today, lead author Kathleen Fuegen of Ohio State says, "mothers are still expected to be caregivers first and fathers are still seem as the main breadwinners." And while I'm on "frustrating," it appears that only the San Jose Mercury News even bothered to write about the research. Read that story here.

On another note entirely: The nationwide, internet-enabled at-home dad network is truly an amazing thing. Over the break, while at my in-laws, I did indeed catch up with a couple of dads in Omaha for a great playdate at the zoo. Thanks, Phil and Mike, for making me feel at home.