Growing up where I did, the thought of working on a television show or in a movie... that existed on a parallel plane, you know?

I have always been drawn to child-related causes. I find that people listen to me more when I advocate for children now that I have my own.

I think all of us have our inner 13-year-old a lot closer to the surface than we're willing to admit even to ourselves.

I mean, any time an actress gets to work with another actress, it’s like, “Oh, there are two of us in a movie! How are you? Let’s sit in the hair chair together!” We’re lonely, women.

I remember, my mom didn't have any help, so if she needed to be somewhere after school, we'd just go down to the neighbors' and she'd give us a snack and make sure we did our homework. There weren't any latchkey kids.

I adore going to movie sets and being part of a team trying to create something. And yet, I hate to miss even one bedtime with my girls. . . My sisters both are working mothers. I understand that my being an actress as well as being at home isn't some heroic thing. That doesn't mean it isn't confusing or difficult--especially that question of how you find a balance.

Your happiness is your own responsibility.