I have been fiercely private, in part because I could never understand how a journalist could be otherwise. I was also the mother of small children, and security concerns were paramount.

There might be false starts and do-overs.You are entitled to experiment before you find your calling.

It may feel like the more you know about depression and the many forms it can take, the more questions you have. That's how I feel.

I spent an awful lot of my life underestimating myself and, as a result, not exceeding my own expectations.

When I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder the year I turned 50, it was certainly a shock. But as a journalist, knowing a little bit about a lot of things, I didn't suffer the misconception that depression was all in my head or a mark of poor character. I knew it was a disease, and, like all diseases, was treatable.

I can cook; but not well. I figure I have six years until my children discover what their friends' mothers make for dinner.

What I've discovered is that my kids weren't watching the 'Today' show... they watch 'Gumby' and 'Bugs Bunny!'