Most of us in the baby-boom generation were raised by full-time mothers. Even as recently as 14 years ago, 6 out of 10 mothers with babies were staying at home. Today that is totally reversed. Does that mean we love our children less than our mothers loved us? No, but it certainly causes a lot of guilt trips.

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

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.

The most likely moment for something incredible to happen to me was the moment I was most certain nothing ever would.

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

I am not one of the great journalists of my time.

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