But no matter how much planning you do, one tiny miscalculation, one moment of distraction, can end it all in an instant.

Life is a drama full of tragedy and comedy. You should learn to enjoy the comic episodes a little more.

Why spend the afternoon making a meal that will be gone in an hour," she'd ask us, "when in the same amount of time, I can do a painting that will last forever?

...even though I was getting better education at home than any of the kids in Toyah, I'd need to go to finishing school when I was thirteen, both to acquire social graces and to earn a diploma. Because in this world, Dad said, it's not enough to have a fine education. You need a piece of paper to prove you go it.

Years from now, when all the junk they got is broken and long forgotten, you'll still have your stars.

Look at the way you live. You've sold out. Next thing I know you'll become a Republican." She shook her head. "Where are the values I raised you with?

Don't be afraid of your dark places. ... If you can shine a light on them, you'll find treasure there.