Myths that need clarification: "Everyone in California lives on a white, sandy beach." False. The only people who live on California beaches are vacationers from Arizona, Utah, and Nevada who own condos.

Myths that need clarification: "No matter how many times you see the Grand canyon, you are still emotionally moved to tears." False. It depends on how many children the out-of-towners brought with them who kicked the back of your seat from Phoenix to Flagstaff and got their gum caught in your hair.

In Russia, as I sat there day after day wearing headphones, listening to the interpreter struggle to make our words relevant, I wondered if we could establish meaningful rapport with a nation that had never seen raisins dance in dark glasses on TV...never had a garage sale.

When my kids become wild and unruly, I use a nice, safe playpen. When they're finished, I climb out.

A friend will tell you she saw your old boyfriend - and he's a priest.

It's frightening to wake up one morning and discover that while you were asleep you went out of style.

I have seen my kid struggle into the kitchen in the morning with outfits that need only one accessory: an empty gin bottle.